York Regional Police and its community partners invite the public and the media to the first Safe Shores Fishing and Information Day being held on Sunday, June 8, 2008, in the Town of Georgina.

The event will be held between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., at De La Salle Park, located at 1940 Metro Road in Jackson’s Point.  Admission is free and this is a great opportunity to spend time with your family and neighbours learning about fishing and tourism in the area.

York Regional Police, along with the Ontario Provincial Police, the Town of Georgina and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources have come together to host this family event.  Displays will be set up around the park with information from the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, the Ontario Chinese Anglers Federation, the Ministry of Natural Resources, the York Regional Police Community Services Bureau, Crime Stoppers of York Region and the Ontario Provincial Police.  The Town of Georgina will also have area tourism information available.

At 12 p.m., Chief Armand La Barge will welcome guests.  Other speakers include Superintendent Wes Bonner, #3 District and Regional Councillor Danny Wheeler, Chairman, Regional Municipality of York Police Services Board.  Members from the Ontario Provincial Police and the Ministry of Natural Resources will also deliver brief remarks and will be available to answer any questions.

At approximately 12:45 p.m., local fishing pro Wil Wegman will present his Fishing Lake Simcoe show.  It includes many tips on fishing and could prove beneficial to the budding angler.

You can try your new-found fishing skills off the public beach or just enjoy the day at the park with refreshments.  The York Regional Police Mascots will also be on hand to provide some fun for the kids.

“Lake Simcoe is one of Ontario’s greatest natural resources and is often referred to as the ‘Other Great Lake,’” said Chief La Barge.  “All Ontarians should not only feel safe when fishing on Lake Simcoe but they should also feel welcome. We are proud to partner with the Town of Georgina and a host of other community groups in this initiative.”

For more information contact the York Regional Police Diversity and Cultural Resources Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6089 or 7986.

Prepared by:  Constable Marina Orlovski

                       June 2, 2008