Happy New Year, Etobicoke! 🎉 I’m Bri, the voice behind Etobicoke Scoop, and I’m kicking off 2026 with your first roundup of the year. Whether you're easing into the day or ready to hit the ground running, here’s your dose of local news, events, and stories to keep you in the loop.

In this week’s newsletter:

🔥 Plow Pyrotechnics: Snowplow goes up in flames!
👐 Massage Mayhem: Charges in clinic assault cases
🕵️‍♂️ Balcony Tragedy: SIU probes a fatal fall
🎉 NYD Openings: What's open on New Year's Day?

Plus: New recycling boss, pay transparency laws, fire code updates 🛠️

THE DIGEST

🔥 Snowplow Goes Up in Flames in Etobicoke! 🔥 
A city snowplow in Etobicoke caught fire during post-storm cleanup, causing a stir near Bloor Street West. Emergency crews swiftly doused the flames, thankfully with no injuries. While the cause remains a mystery, the incident hasn't raised suspicions. City officials are investigating as snow removal efforts continue uninterrupted. Let's hope this is the only hot mess the winter has in store for us!

👐🏥 Massage Clinic Assaults Lead to Charges 👐 
A man faces charges for alleged sexual assaults at Etobicoke massage clinics in 2018 and 2025. Victims were reportedly assaulted during massages near Lake Shore Boulevard. Toronto police have charged the man with two counts of sexual assault and suspect there may be more victims. Anyone with relevant information is urged to reach out to help with the investigation.

🕵️‍♂️ Balcony Mystery Unfolds in Etobicoke 🏙️ 
Ontario's SIU is on the case after a 38-year-old man tragically fell from a balcony during a Toronto police response to a distress call in Etobicoke. The man was pronounced dead at the scene, prompting a thorough investigation. The SIU is urging anyone with info to come forward as they piece together the events leading to this heartbreaking incident.

🎉🕰️ What's Open & Closed on New Year's Day 2026 🕰️🎉 
Wondering where to kick off 2026? Here's the scoop: Banks, government offices, and libraries are closed, but fear not, TTC's running! Some grocery stores, select restaurants, and attractions like Canada's Wonderland and the CN Tower are welcoming New Year's Day visitors. It’s also a great day to catch a movie. Before you head out for that caffeine fix or retail therapy, double-check if your fave spots are open to avoid any NYD disappointments.

What’s New in 2026

🔄♻️ Blue Bins Get a New Boss ♻️🔄 
Starting January 1, 2026, Toronto's blue bin recycling program will no longer be city-run. A private company will take over, but fear not—your recycling routine stays the same. Blue bins aren't going anywhere, and the materials accepted won't change much. Just note: for any service requests or missed collections, you'll need to dial up Circular Materials. Change is in the air, but recycling remains a key climate action for the city.

💰💼 Show Me the Money: New Pay Transparency Laws 💼💰 
Ontario is shaking up the hiring game with new pay transparency laws kicking in come Jan. 1, 2026. Companies with 25+ staff must spill the tea on salary expectations in job postings, no wider than $50K. Bonus: AI use must be disclosed, and ghosting candidates? Not cool anymore. With employers having to spill the beans within 45 days post-interview, the hiring field's about to get a lot more honest.

🛠️🍁 Ontario Opens Doors to Canadian Goods and Services 🍁🛠️ 
Ontario is waving the flag for easier trade by implementing mutual recognition of goods and services from other Canadian regions. The new "As of Right" rules aim to streamline approvals, cut costs, and boost market access for Ontario businesses. Plus, skilled professionals from across Canada, like engineers and doctors, will have a smoother path to work in Ontario, enriching the province's workforce and potentially improving patient care.

🔥🚒 Hot New Fire Code Rules 🔥🚒 
Ontario is turning up the heat on safety with new carbon monoxide alarm rules kicking in on New Year's Day. Homeowners need to install CO alarms near sleeping areas and on every floor if there's a fuel-burning appliance. For renters, landlords must handle the installations, but tenants play a key role in keeping things in check by reporting any CO alarm hiccups. It's a rule revamp to keep everyone breathing easy.

Upcoming Events

• Jan. 1–14 – New Vistas: Alder for the Heart Exhibition
  Etobicoke Civic Centre Art Gallery | 399 The West Mall
  Explore diverse perspectives on identity through works by emerging visual artists, curated by Humber College’s Arts Administration program. A thought-provoking display highlighting early-career talent.| Free Admission
  

• Jan. 1- 29 – Exploring the Ubiquitous Yet Humble Asian Grocery Store

  Etobicoke Civic Centre Art Gallery | 399 The West Mall

  Discover the vibrant and thought-provoking art exhibition by Sam Lee, which delves into the cultural significance of Asian grocery stores through the lens of Western influence. This compelling display invites you to reflect on the intersection of tradition and modernity, showcasing the complexities of identity and migration. Don't miss this free and accessible opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of East Asian culture and its transformation over time.

  🕗 Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Free Admission
  

• Jan. 3 – Groovin’ Thru the Decades: Dance Hits

  Old Mill Toronto | 21 Old Mill Rd.

  Join us for an exhilarating musical journey through the decades with the most iconic dance hits from the 50s to the 00s. 🎶💃 Get ready to relive the magic and dance the night away at the historical Old Mill Toronto. It's a night you won't want to miss!🕗 8:00 p.m. | 🎟️ Tickets available
  

• Jan. 9 – Etobicoke Women's Networking: Authentic Connection for Women in Business
  152 Thirtieth St
  Join like-minded women entrepreneurs and professionals for meaningful networking, idea exchange, and relationship-building in a supportive environment focused on personal and professional growth. 🕗 11:00 a.m. start | $12 admission (free for members)

Weather

• Thu, Jan 1: High -7°C, Low -13°C ❄️

• Fri, Jan 2: High -5°C, Low -9°C 🌥️

• Sat, Jan 3: High -6°C, Low -11°C ❄️

• Sun, Jan 4: High -5°C, Low -9°C ❄️

• Mon, Jan 5: High -2°C, Low -9°C ❄️

• Tue, Jan 6: High 2°C, Low -3°C 🌧️

• Wed, Jan 7: High 2°C, Low 1°C 🌥️

Fun & Games

🎉 POLL: How Did You Ring In 2026?

🟩 A) Cozy night in — pajamas, snacks, and maybe a movie
🟦 B) Out partying with friends ‘til midnight (or later!)
🟨 C) Fireworks, live music, or a local celebration
🟥 D) Slept right through it like a champ
⬜ E) Other! (Tell me in a reply — I’d love to hear)

💌 Hit "reply" and share your pick — or tell me your own New Year's Eve tradition! I might feature your story on the Etobicoke Scoop Instagram page.

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