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Rat Race: Etobicoke's Unwelcome Guests
Orkin ranks Etobicoke 7th 'rattiest' city in Ontario.

Good morning, Etobicoke! I’m Bri, the voice behind Etobicoke Scoop. As always, I’ve rounded up the latest local news, events, and stories to keep you in the loop.
In this week’s newsletter:
🍸 License Limbo: Bar may lose its liquor license
🐀 Rat Ranking: Etobicoke among top "rattiest" cities
❄️ Road Rumble: Winter weather causing 150+ crashes
Plus: Holiday markets, festive concerts, singalongs 🎶
THE DIGEST
🍸🚫 Etobicoke Bar Faces Liquor License Revocation 🚫🍸
Southside Johnny's, a popular bar and grill in Etobicoke, is in hot water as the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario threatens to pull its liquor license. An investigation revealed the shocking truth: stolen alcohol was being served, allegedly involving both the licensee and a manager. If the bar doesn't appeal within 15 days, it could be lights out for their liquor license, leaving patrons high and dry.
🐀🥇 Etobicoke: No. 7 "Rattiest" City in Ontario 🥇🐀
Orkin Canada's list of Ontario's top 25 "rattiest" cities is out, and Etobicoke snagged the 7th spot. Toronto topped the list and Mississauga came in second. With plans for a "rat czar" and new regulations, Toronto aims to tackle its rodent issue. Remember: cut shrubbery, seal cracks, and keep crumbs at bay to avoid unwanted furry roommates. Looks like the rats and mice are making themselves a little too cozy in the 'hood—time to evict those unwelcome furry tenants!
❄️🚗 Winter Weather Wreaks Havoc on GTHA Roads 🚗❄️
Ontario is facing more than 150 collisions across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton areas due to a winter system causing slippery roads and poor visibility. The OPP is warning of delays for tow trucks and roadside assistance, advising people to stay home if possible. With snowfall continuing, the City of Toronto is salting and plowing roads, urging caution and patience as hazardous conditions are expected.
Upcoming Events
December 11 – Holiday Market
St. George's Junior School | 70 Princess Anne Crescent
Join us for a festive evening at the Holiday Market! Discover unique gifts, handmade crafts, and delicious treats from local vendors. It's the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit and support the community. 🎁✨
🕕 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. | Free entry
December 12 – Winter Sweets: A Festive Concert
Humber Valley United Church | 76 Anglesey Blvd.
Come cozy up with us on a chilly winter's evening for a delightful concert with the Etobicoke Philharmonic. Enjoy performances by guest violinists Mark Whale and Erick Oliver Wawrzkiewicz, alongside seasonal favorites like "Symphonic Chocolates" by Maxime Goulet. Embrace the festive spirit with a sing-along, a fun guest conductor opportunity, and the chance to win exciting gift baskets.
🕗 8:00 p.m. | 🎟️ Tickets available.
December 14 – Christmas in Islington
Islington United Church | 25 Burnhamthorpe Rd.
Join us in person or online for a spectacular Christmas concert that’s a cherished tradition in Islington Village. Enjoy an evening filled with choral and orchestral music that will add magic to your Christmas festivities. This is an event you won’t want to miss!🕖 7:00 p.m. | Donations welcome – free will offering
Dec 14 – The Great Mimico Singalong
Mimico Square | 2445 Lake Shore Blvd West
Join us for the Great Mimico Singalong: Santa's Lakeside Stop! Enjoy a heartwarming singalong with festive carols from 4-5 p.m. and delight in FREE hot chocolate from Ed's Real Scoop. Don't miss Santa's arrival at 5 p.m. 🎅🎶
🕓 4:00 – 6:30 p.m. | Free Admission
Weather
Thu, Dec 11: High -5°C, Low -8°C ☀️
Fri, Dec 12: High -2°C, Low -8°C 🌥️
Sat, Dec 13: High -3°C, Low -7°C 🌥️
Sun, Dec 14: High -6°C, Low -9°C 🌥️
Mon, Dec 15: High -5°C, Low -11°C 🌥️
Tue, Dec 16: High -4°C, Low -8°C 🌥️
Wed, Dec 17: High 3°C, Low -1°C 🌧️
Fun & Games
🎲 Would You Rather
Would you rather spend a snowy day:
A) Building the ultimate snow fort and defending it with snowballs
B) Curling up by the fireplace with a cup of hot cocoa and a good book
C) Going on a scenic winter hike, taking in the frosty views
D) Hosting a snowman-building contest with your friends and family
➡️ Hit reply with your pick and we'll tally the favourites in next week’s issue!
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
Have an event, local spot, or news tip you’d like to share? We’d love to hear from you! Send us a note, and let’s highlight what makes Etobicoke special together. Just hit reply, or reach out to [email protected].
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