Good morning, Etobicoke! I’m Bri, the voice behind Etobicoke Scoop. Thanks for starting your week with me. I’ve rounded up the latest local news, events, and stories to keep you in the loop. Let’s take a look at what’s happening around the neighbourhood.

In this week’s newsletter:

🏡 Market Chill: Home sales dip in October
🌺 Poppy Power: Tapestry project blooms big
🏡 Tax Alert: Empty home declarations due

Plus: Art exhibitions, rummage sales, film nights 🎨

THE DIGEST

🏡💲 Toronto Home Sales Take a Dip 💲🏡 
Toronto home sales are feeling the chill with a 9.5% drop in October compared to last year. The Toronto Regional Real Estate Board reports a decrease in both sales and prices, attributing it to ongoing economic uncertainties. Despite this, lower prices and interest rates are giving confident buyers a chance to snag a deal, while others are holding off due to economic jitters. Will the market bounce back with more economic stability? Stay tuned.

🌺🎖️ Etobicoke Poppy Tapestry Project Blooms🎖️🌺 
Claire Laporte's simple idea to create a tapestry of poppies for Remembrance Day exploded into a nationwide project of gratitude and remembrance. What started with a goal of 3,000 knitted poppies at Legion 101 in Etobicoke blossomed into over 6,500 heartfelt contributions from across Canada, including a surprise package from California. Laporte's vision not only honors veterans but also celebrates diverse histories, weaving in black, purple, white, and yellow poppies to acknowledge various sacrifices made.

🏡💸 Tax Time for Empty Homes 💸🏡 
Etobicoke homeowners, it’s declaration time for the 2025 Vacant Home Tax (VHT). The City is cracking down on empty properties to free up housing. Declarations are due by April 30, 2026, and must be filed online, by phone, or in person. If you dodge this tax, your property could be labeled vacant. So, whether it’s your crash pad or just collecting dust, get those declarations in!

Upcoming Events

• November 6 – Bits & Pieces Art Exhibition
  Assembly Hall | 1 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive, Etobicoke
  Encounter stunning collage artworks that transform everyday materials into imaginative assemblages. This curated exhibition highlights emerging and established Toronto artists in a meditative exploration of visual storytelling.
  🕗 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. | Free admission
  

• November 7 – Islington United Church's Annual Rummage Sale

  Islington United Church | 25 Burnhamthorpe Road, Etobicoke

  Get ready to discover incredible deals at the Annual Rummage Sale! From clothing to household items and Christmas gifts, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Don't forget to bring your own bags and cash for easy shopping. 🛍️ 🕒 Friday: 3:00 – 8:00 p.m. | Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  

• November 11 – Remembrance Day Ceremonies

  Etobicoke Civic Centre Cenotaph | 399 The West Mall, Etobicoke

  Remembrance Day ceremony to honor and remember those who have served our country. Reflect on their sacrifices at this poignant community event held at various locations across Toronto. 🇨🇦

  🕙 10:45 a.m. | Free to attend
  

• November 14 – Film Night: Reel Injun

  Islington United Church | 25 Burnhamthorpe Road, Etobicoke

  Join the Islington United Church for an insightful evening featuring the film "Reel Injun" by Cree Canadian filmmaker Neil Diamond. This thought-provoking documentary explores the portrayal of Indigenous peoples in Hollywood cinema. The evening will be moderated by Jesse Wente, renowned CBC Radio columnist and author, with a special welcome from the Very Rev. Carmen Lansdowne. 🕖 7:00 p.m. | Admission is free – all are welcome!
  

• November 20 – Speaker's Night: The Boyd Gang: Toronto's Notorious Bank Robbers

  Montgomery's Inn | 4709 Dundas St W, Etobicoke, ON M9A 1A8

  Join us for a fascinating evening as Richard Jordan, Chief Historian of the Etobicoke Historical Society, delves into the thrilling escapades of the Boyd Gang. Discover the story of Edwin Alonzo Boyd and his notorious crew who became infamous for their daring bank heists and dramatic jail escapes in the 1950s. With rich insights and captivating storytelling, Richard brings history to life, offering a glimpse into one of Toronto's most riveting crime sagas.

  🕢 7:30 p.m. (Refreshments from 7:00 p.m.) | Admission is free, donations to the Etobicoke Historical Society are welcome.
  

• November 22 – Handmade Art and Fine Craft Sale
  Neilson Park Creative Centre | 56 Neilson Drive, Etobicoke
  Browse a curated collection of handmade art, pottery, jewelry, and fine craft by dozens of local artisans. A perfect opportunity to shop early for unique holiday gifts while supporting Etobicoke’s vibrant creative community.
  🕙 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Free admission and parking

Weather

• Thu, Nov 6: High 8°C, Low 3°C ☀️

• Fri, Nov 7: High 12°C, Low 6°C 🌧️

• Sat, Nov 8: High 9°C, Low 5°C 🌥️

• Sun, Nov 9: High 4°C, Low 0°C ❄️

• Mon, Nov 10: High 0°C, Low -3°C ❄️

• Tue, Nov 11: High 3°C, Low -1°C 🌥️

• Wed, Nov 12: High 6°C, Low 3°C 🌧️

Fun & Games

🤔 Riddle me this:

I’m red in a field, but not a stop sign. I’m a symbol for peace, yet I’m not a dove. I’m a memory in November, but not a calendar.

What am I?

Answer: A poppy flower (also the perfect excuse to wear a bright red accessory 🌺).

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