Mayor David Miller comments on passing of "Honest" Ed Mirvish

    TORONTO, July 11 /CNW/ - "It is a truly sad day in the city of Toronto.
Today we mourn the loss of Mr. Toronto, Ed Mirvish; a man who can only be
described as a local hero.
    "For decades, Ed devoted his life to helping Torontonians and to making
Toronto the great city it is. Whether it was his iconic landmark retail store
that was responsible for breathing new life into the Bloor and Bathurst
neighbourhood or his commitment to the performing arts, Ed's passion for his
city was second to none.
    "One of the things that made him so special and so endearing is that
despite being a successful and savvy businessman, his motives were always
about more than the bottom line. His philosophy was to keep prices reasonable
so everyone could afford to shop at his store. And he always gave back to the
community through his turkey giveaway and his annual birthday block party.
    "His foresight also gave birth to the Entertainment District and helped
revitalize the city's live theatre industry bringing with it thousands of jobs
and busloads of tourists flocking to see the latest great production.
    "The lights may have dimmed on Ed's life, but his spirit and legacy have
been indelibly burned into the fabric of Toronto.
    "On behalf of all Torontonians, I extend greatest condolences to Ed's
family and friends as well as all those who ever had the privilege of knowing
him or who were touched by his generosity.
    "He will be missed but never, ever forgotten."
    In honour of Ed Mirvish, the City of Toronto will lower the flags to half
mast at City Hall and the civic centres on Thursday, July 12.

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For further information: Media contact: Stuart Green, Office of Mayor
David Miller, (416) 338-7119