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:

🎶 Tenant Serenade: Carols for renters' rights
🚫 Sewage Showdown: Protests at Ontario Place
🏘️ Tax Hike: Million-dollar homes hit harder

Plus: Live music events, New Year's bashes, winter weather ❄️

If you love a good vintage find, stop by Never Gets Old on Jutland Road, recently featured in our Local Spotlight section.

THE DIGEST

🎶🏠 'We See You Mass Evicting' 🏠🎶 
Tenant advocates jingled all the way to Premier Doug Ford's Etobicoke doorstep with a festive twist, carolling against Ontario's Bill 60. The bill, critiqued for favoring landlords and curbing tenant rights, sparked creative protests with revamped Christmas tunes. Despite the merry melodies, advocates are serious about opposing the rushed-through legislation and fighting for stronger protections for renters, promising to keep the catchy protests going strong.

🚫💩 Sewage Showdown at Ontario Place 💧🚫 
Ontario's controversial move to proceed with a Combined Sewer Overflow system near Ontario Place has sparked outrage from politicians, environmental groups, and physicians. The plan, enabled by a polarizing bill, could lead to raw sewage discharge near a public beach, risking public health. Despite protests and concerns about transparency, construction is underway, raising questions about government accountability and environmental impact in the area.

🏘️ Council Approves New Multi-Million Home Tax 💰
Toronto City Council voted 17-7 to hike land transfer taxes on homes worth $3 million or more, a move expected to generate nearly $14 million next year. Mayor Olivia Chow defended the tax as fair, saying the wealthy can handle it. Etobicoke Councillor Stephen Holyday opposed the move, calling it a forced redistribution of wealth and warning about its long-term impact on property owners and the city's economic balance. The new rates kick in April 1.

Upcoming Events

• December 20 – Live Music by Pablo Terry & Sol de Cuba

  Upper Level Food Court | 500 Rexdale Blvd., Etobicoke

  Join us for a vibrant afternoon filled with the infectious rhythms of Pablo Terry and Sol de Cuba. For over 20 years, this Cuban-Canadian band has dazzled audiences with their unique blend of Latin, Afro-Cuban, Jazz, and Brazilian sounds. Let Pablo Terry's charismatic presence invite you to sing along and dance your heart out! 🕑 2:00–5:00 p.m. | 🎟️ Free admission
  

• December 31 – New Year's Eve 2026 at Mascot Brewery

  Mascot Brewery and Restaurant | 37 Advance Rd

  Join us for the most electrifying New Year’s Eve celebration at Mascot Brewery, one of Etobicoke South's hottest destinations! Dance and socialize as we countdown to 2026 with non-stop Top-40 and R&B throwbacks, all in a vibrant atmosphere. Dress to impress for an unforgettable night filled with energy and excitement. 🎉✨🕙 10:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. | 🎟️ Tickets
  

• December 31 – New Year's Eve 2026 @ Long Branch Social House

  Long Branch Social House | 3595 Lake Shore Blvd W.

  Join us at Long Branch Social House to celebrate the arrival of the New Year in style! Enjoy a fabulous dinner with live acoustic music by Sandra & Stephan, followed by a lively party with DJ Lauren Knowles spinning your favorite tunes. As the clock strikes midnight, raise a glass during our champagne toast and watch the balloons drop. Make sure to book your spot for a night to remember!

  🕔 5:00 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. | 🎟️ Tickets

Weather

• Thu, Dec 18: High 7°C, Low -2°C 🌧️

• Fri, Dec 19: High 7°C, Low -5°C ❄️

• Sat, Dec 20: High 2°C, Low -5°C ❄️

• Sun, Dec 21: High 1°C, Low -5°C ❄️

• Mon, Dec 22: High -5°C, Low -7°C 🌥️

• Tue, Dec 23: High 1°C, Low -5°C ❄️

• Wed, Dec 24: High 2°C, Low -3°C 🌥️

Fun & Games

🧠 Trivia Time!
What iconic structure is found at Ontario Place in Toronto?
A) The CN Tower
B) The Big Nickel
C) The Cinesphere
D) The Royal Ontario Museum

(Scroll down for the answer...)

Answer:
C) The Cinesphere! The Cinesphere at Ontario Place was the world's first permanent IMAX theatre, opening in 1971. Its unique geodesic dome design is a beloved architectural feature on Toronto’s waterfront.


❄️ Last Week’s “Would You Rather” Results Are In! ☕

Thanks to everyone who played along! It was a close call, but the top spots were split between C) Going on a scenic winter hike and B) Curling up by the fireplace with a cup of hot cocoa and a good book. Whether you're out embracing the chill or staying cozy indoors, Etobicoke knows how to winter right.

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