Good morning, Etobicoke! I’m Bri, the voice behind Etobicoke Scoop. Every Thursday, I’ll bring you the latest news, events, and stories from our community—all in one easy read.

Hold onto your toques—it's a windy one out there today! Whether you're braving the gusts or watching the trees sway from the warmth of your home, we've got the scoop to keep you grounded.

In this week’s newsletter:

• Safe behind the wheel: Etobicoke drivers rank among Ontario’s best

• Savings season: A new holiday tax break is putting money back in your pocket

• Heartbreaking theft: A stolen Jeep with a family’s beloved dog still inside

• High school lockdown: Gunfire at Silverthorn Collegiate ends with no injuries

• End of an era: Tatsu’s Bread says farewell after 18 years of baking brilliance

Plus, your festive events calendar, weekly weather, and a Windy Word Scramble to test your Etobicoke knowledge!

THE DIGEST

 🚗 Etobicoke Drivers Ranked Among Safest in Ontario 🚗

Etobicoke drivers can pat themselves on the back—new data from MyChoice ranks the area as one of the safest places to drive in Ontario, thanks to low accident and infraction rates. Part of the greater Toronto area’s strong showing in the study, Etobicoke drivers are proving that vigilance and safe habits pay off. Meanwhile, cities like Brantford and Kingston topped the list of most dangerous spots for driving.

🛍️ Holiday Tax Break: What It Means for Etobicoke Shoppers 🛍️

Etobicoke families can enjoy extra savings this holiday season with a new two-month GST/HST tax break. Starting Dec. 14, a two-month tax holiday will knock off the GST and HST on items like children’s clothing, toys, books, and even restaurant meals—including beer and wine. The federal and Ontario governments are teaming up to ease the cost of living, giving you up to 13% off eligible purchases. Whether you’re stocking up on diapers or splurging on a PlayStation 5, the savings could add up—so get those shopping lists ready!

🐶 Jeep Stolen with Family Pup Still Inside 🐶
A white Jeep Grand Cherokee was stolen near Bloor Street West and The East Mall on Wednesday morning—with Roxy, a four-year-old chocolate Lab, still in the car. Owner Josh Miller says the suspect threatened harm before apologizing and speeding off. Miller is pleading for Roxy’s safe return, urging anyone who spots her to contact Toronto police at 416-808-7350 or Crime Stoppers anonymously. “She’s part of our family,” he said. Let’s get Roxy home.

🚨 High School Incident Ends Safely, No Injuries Reported 🚨 

Silverthorne Collegiate Institute was placed on lockdown Tuesday afternoon after gunshots were fired in a stairwell around 4 p.m., with two masked suspects fleeing the scene. Approximately 120 people, including students at a basketball game and staff preparing for an open house, were inside the building at the time. Police conducted a thorough sweep, ensuring everyone’s safety before lifting the lockdown at 6:45 p.m. No injuries were reported, and the investigation, now led by the Guns and Gangs team, continues.

🥖 Beloved Bakery to Close After 18 Years 🥖

South Etobicoke will bid farewell to a neighborhood gem as Tatsu’s Bread, a fusion bakery blending Western and Japanese delights, prepares to close its doors on December 24. For 18 years, Tatsu and Junko Sato have wowed locals with their artisan breads, legendary almond croissants, and made-to-order sandwiches. The couple announced their decision to move on to the "next chapter," leaving fans with just two weeks to savor their favorites one last time. Located at 3180 Lakeshore West, Tatsu’s has been a cornerstone of the community—and it will be dearly missed.

Upcoming Events & Happenings

• Dec. 14th - The Messiah Concert
  Humber Valley United Church | 76 Anglesey Blvd
  Enjoy the talents of Dr. Anton Yeretsky, the Great Lakes Philharmonic, Robert Hennig on the magnificent organ, and 54 singers from local choirs. A festive reception with Christmas treats follows the performance. Tickets $35. Starts at 1p.

• Dec. 14th - Mimico Christmas Market

  Mimico Presbyterian Church | 119 Mimico Ave

  Shop local. Drop by to discover amazing up and coming Canadian brands, their owners, and get your holiday shopping done without having to endure the Eaton Centre or Sherway crowds. 11a to 5p.

• Dec. 14th - Santa Paws Festive Celebration

  11 Irwin Rd

  Bring the family (and your pet!) to this festive holiday event featuring a special appearance by former Toronto Blue Jays player Dalton Pompey, photos with Santa Paws, arts & crafts, and more. Tickets are $25 per family (up to 5 people) and include food, drink, and raffle tickets—happening 12–4 PM.

• Every Weekend Through Dec. 15th - 2nd Annual Christmas Market 

  Long Branch Social House | 3595 Lake Shore Blvd. West  

  An outdoor market with a variety of vendors set up on the patio to sell you one of a kind gift ideas just in time for the holidays. 11a to 4p.

• Through Dec. 30th - CAMP Mini

  Hudson’s Bay Court @ CF Sherway Gardens | 25 The West Mall

  This interactive pop-up is packed with hands-on activities for the whole family. Guests can create personalized snow globes and CAMP’s signature slime or explore a curated selection of gifts perfect for the holiday season. Whether you’re looking to play on-site or take the fun home, there’s something for everyone. Mon - Sat: 10a to 9p. Sun: 10a to 6p.

• Through Jan. 2025 - Spectacle Exhibition by National Geographic

  CF Sherway Gardens | 25 The West Mall

  “Spectacle” is an exquisite photo exhibition that showcases an array of images that are as remarkable as they are unforgettable. Each image enlightens and inspires, allowing visitors to marvel at the diverse, complex, and truly remarkable planet on which we all live.

Weather

• Thursday, Dec. 12: High -1°C, Low -8°C 🌬️

• Friday, Dec. 13: High -3°C, Low -9°C ☀️

• Saturday, Dec. 14: High 1°C, Low -8°C 🌤️

• Sunday, Dec. 15: High 4°C, Low -1°C 🌧️

• Monday, Dec. 16: High 7°C, Low 3°C ☁️

• Tuesday, Dec. 17: High 7°C, Low 3°C 🌧️

• Wednesday, Dec. 18: High 6°C, Low -2°C ☁️

Fun & Games

🌬️ Windy Word Scramble 🌬️

The wind’s blowing words all over the place—can you sort them out? Unscramble these jumbled letters to reveal Etobicoke-themed words!

1. YTSUG

2. EUQTO

3. REBMUH

4. KEASREHOL

5. DNWI

6. CRVHIIWE

Think you’ve got them all? Scroll down for the answers!

Answers:

1. GUSTY

2. TOQUE

3. HUMBER

4. LAKESHORE

5. WIND

6. RICHVIEW

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