Good morning, Etobicoke! I’m Bri, the voice behind Etobicoke Scoop. What a week. Is everyone okay?! We got buried in snow, then the ground decided to wobble just to keep things interesting. Just another week in the west end. I’ve pulled together the latest local news, events, and stories to help you ride it all out with a smile.

In this week’s newsletter:

🚨 Jailbreak Drama: Inmate slips out in disguise
🍕 Pizza Diplomacy: Ford and Carney share a slice
💊 Drug Bust: Local duo caught in trafficking sting
🌍 Surprise Quake: 3.7 magnitude shakes Ontarians

Plus: Winterlicious eats, a jazz dinner, and trivia fun 🎶

THE DIGEST

🚨 Jailbreak Shenanigans in Etobicoke 🚨
In a daring move straight out of a movie, Steven Alexander Guzman Marroquin fled from an Etobicoke correctional facility by impersonating another inmate. This Houdini act involved swapping identities, ditching an ankle monitor at a gas station, and now facing a laundry list of charges. With the escapee still on the loose and a notorious detention centre in the spotlight, the hunt is on for this real-life escape artist in our midst.

🍕🤝 Ford and Carney's Pizza Summit 🍕🤝
Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Prime Minister Mark Carney set aside their differences over slices at an Etobicoke Pizza Nova, signaling a potential thaw in their relationship. Ford declared, "We're all about Team Canada," emphasizing unity despite past disagreements. The duo discussed key issues like Ontario's auto sector and energy development, showcasing a newfound camaraderie that might just redefine political partnerships in our province.

💊💰 Etobicoke Duo Charged in Drug Trafficking Bust 💊💰
Two Etobicoke residents have found themselves in hot water after being charged in a Six Nations Police drug trafficking investigation. The pair, a 26-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman, were caught with drugs like fentanyl and cocaine, along with cash and other drug-related items. The investigation, dubbed "Project Hop Out," aimed to tackle the trafficking of drugs onto Six Nations land, shedding light on a larger issue with local implications.

🌍🛏️ Earthquake Rattles Ontario Sleepers 🌍🛏️
Etobicoke residents were jolted awake by a magnitude 3.7 earthquake near Orillia, causing confused reactions across the province. From mistaking the tremors for snowplows to feeling beds shake and blinds sway, the rare event left many questioning their senses. Luckily, no damage was reported, but the quake served as a reminder that even in Canada, the ground beneath us can still shake things up.

Upcoming Events

  • January 29 – Councillor Vincent Crisanti's Etobicoke North Historical Night

    Thistletown Community Centre (Gym) | 925 Albion Rd.

    Join us for an evening of exploration and celebration as we delve into the rich heritage of North Etobicoke! Hosted by Councillor Vincent Crisanti, this event promises to be both educational and fun. Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity to connect with the community and history enthusiasts alike.

    🕔 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. | Free admission

  • Jan. 30-Feb. 12 – Winterlicious

    Various Locations | Across Toronto

    Embrace the culinary delights of Toronto with Winterlicious, featuring over 240 participating restaurants. Enjoy three-course prix fixe menus that offer a wide range of flavors, from cozy comfort foods to exciting global cuisines. Perfect for food lovers looking to explore new tastes or enjoy their favorites. 🍽️

    🕒 Lunch and Dinner | 🍽️ Lunch: $20-$55, Dinner: $25-$75 | Reserve your table starting January 15.

  • Feb. 1 – Hymns to Freedom: Black History Month Docu-Concert

    Humber Valley United Church | 76 Anglesey Blvd.

    Join the Etobicoke Philharmonic Orchestra for a heartfelt celebration of Black History Month with "Hymns to Freedom." This docu-concert features renowned Canadian artists Jackie Richardson and Corey Butler, blending music, storytelling, and history to honor Black artistry and resilience. Experience themes of struggle, hope, and unity in an inspiring and uplifting community event. 🕑 2:00 p.m. | 🎟️ Tickets available at the door or online.

  • February 6 – An Intimate Jazz Dinner with Melissa Lauren

    Old Mill Toronto | 21 Old Mill Rd., Etobicoke

    Join us for a cozy evening of jazz and storytelling with Toronto's own Melissa Lauren. Immerse yourself in the warmth of her acclaimed album "My Voice" as she weaves together classic jazz standards with contemporary influences. This performance promises to be a heartfelt exploration of the human voice, its strength, and its fragility. 🎶 🕗 8:00 – 10:00 p.m. | 🎟️ Reserve your spot for an unforgettable night.

Weather

  • Thu, Jan 29: High -11°C, Low -23°C 🌥️

  • Fri, Jan 30: High -12°C, Low -25°C 🌥️

  • Sat, Jan 31: High -11°C, Low -19°C 🌥️

  • Sun, Feb 1: High -10°C, Low -19°C ☀️

  • Mon, Feb 2: High -4°C, Low -18°C ❄️

  • Tue, Feb 3: High -2°C, Low -10°C 🌥️

  • Wed, Feb 4: High -10°C, Low -17°C ☀️

Fun & Games

🧠 Trivia Time!
When did Ontario experience one of its most significant earthquakes in recent history, measuring 5.0 on the Richter scale?
A) 1990
B) 2005
C) 2010
D) 2021

(Scroll down for the answer...)

Answer:
C) 2010! In June 2010, a 5.0 magnitude earthquake shook parts of Ontario and Quebec. It was felt as far away as some U.S. states, making it quite a memorable event! 🌍

Like being in the know? Share the love! Forward this newsletter to friends and neighbors who’d enjoy staying up-to-date on all things Etobicoke. 📬

Thanks for reading! See you next week for more of what’s happening in Etobicoke.

-Bri

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