Your morning news roundup for Thursday December 14th, 2006:

The TTC is early in planning stages, but aims to give a number of stationsmajor functional improvements and face-lifts. Victoria Park station is the first priority, followed by work on Kipling and Islington stations, which will involve Mississauga and GO Transit funds as well. I've been hoping that the near future brings toilets to more mid-line stations, but it seems as though that will never happen.

Is it an energy conservation vigilante, the Grinch, or a small time thief? Someone has beenrobbing Durham region homes of their Christmas decorations, in some cases bulb by bulb.

With just 12 sleeps until Christmas, many Toronto charities are wellshort of their donation goals, and are calling on us to pull up our socks (and pull out our cheque books) and give what we can to the less fortunate. blogTO contributors have been compiling a list of local charities we hope are worthy of your consideration. Watch for our compendium, coming soon.

Do you remember exactly what you have in your packed lunch? If you're crossing the border, be sure you declare that roast beef sandwich, or you could facefines imposed by US Customs.

For the first time since 1992, theCanada Food Guide is getting an upgrade. It now includes pictures of ethic foods like bok choy, couscous, naan, soy milk and squid. More emphasis on fruits and vegetables and information on portion sizes are also expected. But the changes are not enough, according to some.

Anarrest warrantfor former Olympic biathlon champ Myraim Bedard has been issued, although Quebec police have been rather hush. Apparently she's involved in a custody battle and may have violated a joint-custody agreement by leaving Canada with her daughter.

(photo:blogTO Flickrpoolernaughton321)