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.

In this week’s newsletter:

🚧 Highway 427 Chaos: A truck rollover causes a spill of aluminum and steel rods
🚨 Car Theft and Fraud Alert: Police seek two suspects in theft and fraud case
🧺 Best Picnic Spots Revealed: Pro planners share top local picnic locations and tips
🎯 Foosball Revival: Toronto Foosball Club rekindles the love for the game

Plus: New Italian bakery opening, Humber Bay Farmers’ Market kicks off, and a new 3 Truths and 1 Lie 🎈

THE DIGEST

🚧 Highway 427 Chaos: Truck Spills Aluminum and Steel Rods 🚧 
A truck rollover on Highway 427 in Etobicoke left aluminum and steel rods scattered on the road, causing lane closures and heavy traffic. Ontario Provincial Police are urging drivers to steer clear of the area near Rexdale Boulevard as crews work to clean up the spill. While no injuries were reported, the incident underscores the importance of safe driving and vigilance on local highways to prevent accidents that can disrupt daily commutes and pose risks to motorists.

🚨 Pair Sought for Vehicle Theft and Fraud in Etobicoke 🚨 
Authorities are on the hunt for two suspects involved in a vehicle theft and fraud case in Etobicoke after stealing a vehicle and using the victim's credit and debit cards for purchases. The first suspect is described as 25-30 years old with a thin build, while the second suspect is also 25-30 years old with a medium build and dark hair. Images of the suspects have been released, urging anyone with information to contact Toronto Police or Crime Stoppers. Residents are reminded to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to help keep the community safe.

🧺 Pro Picnic Planners Share GTA's Best Picnic Spots 🧺 
Expert picnic organizers reveal their top hidden-gem picnic locations (including two right here in Etobicoke!) and outdoor-hosting tips for the perfect GTA picnic experience. From chic tableware to cozy seating arrangements, these pros share their secrets for a successful outdoor dining adventure. With strategic advice on location, setup, menu choices, and must-have supplies, local residents can level up their picnics this season. Whether you're planning a romantic date or a family gathering, these tips and scenic spots offer a delightful way to enjoy the outdoors with a touch of elegance.

New in the Neighbourhood

🎯 Toronto Foosball Club Brings Back a Retro Game to Etobicoke 🎯 
Toronto Foosball Club, nestled in an Etobicoke office space, is reviving the love for foosball in the city. With a dedicated 24/7 space and membership starting at $80 a month, this club is on a mission to make foosball the next big thing. Led by passionate members like Robert Pavich, who found solace in the game after retirement, the club offers a communal space with international tables, snacks, and even livestreamed games. Whether you're a pro or a newbie, this club aims to bring back the social fun of foosball for all ages.

🍕 New Italian Bakery and Trattoria Coming to Etobicoke Waterfront 🍝 
Get ready to indulge in some Italian goodness by the lake! San Vito, a new bakery and trattoria, is set to open next month at 110 Marine Parade Drive. From morning cappuccinos and pastries to lunchtime veal cutlets and stone-baked pizzas, owner Julian Parentela promises to bring a taste of Italy to Toronto. With a focus on traditional dishes and Italian wines, residents near the waterfront can soon enjoy a slice of la dolce vita without leaving Etobicoke. Time to start planning those summer waterfront lunches!

🍽️ Pinky Swear: New Lakeshore Village Restaurant Delights Locals 🍽️ 
Neil and the team at Pinky Swear are bringing a taste of downtown cool to Etobicoke's Lakeshore Village with their mouth-watering menu and welcoming vibe. With a background in Toronto's top restaurants, they've created a cozy spot for the community to enjoy comforting dishes like house-made French toast and breakfast cassoulet. As they await their liquor license, the focus is on craft non-alcoholic options, making it a family-friendly destination. Whether you're in Mimico, Long Branch, Alderwood, or Lakeshore, Pinky Swear is a must-visit for foodies looking for a new local gem.

Upcoming Events

• Now through June 12 - Diversified Life Exhibition at Assembly Hall
  Assembly Hall | 1 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Dr.

  Part of the CONTACT Photography Festival 2025, Diversified Life showcases powerful images by deaf artist Hong Yu Chan, capturing profound connections and everyday moments. 🖼️✨ Free admission throughout the exhibit.
  

• Now through June 22 - OVO by Cirque du Soleil
  Under the Big Top | 2150 Lake Shore Blvd. W.

  Experience the magic of Cirque du Soleil’s 25th anniversary show, OVO—a dazzling celebration of the world of insects brought to life through acrobatics, colour, and movement. 🐞✨🎟️ Tickets available now | Prices vary
  

• Now through Thanksgiving - Humber Bay Shores Farmers’ Market 
  Humber Bay Park West | 100 Humber Bay Park Rd. W.
  Get ready to experience the return of the Humber Bay Shores Farmers’ Market! Join us at Humber Bay Park West for a vibrant community gathering filled with fresh produce, local goods, and a welcoming atmosphere. 🕖 Running every Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm until Thanksgiving weekend, this market is the perfect place to shop local and support Canadian vendors. Admission is free.

• June 7th - Lakeshore Village Grilled Cheese Challenge
  Lake Shore Blvd. W. (Islington Ave. to 2nd St.), Etobicoke

  Get ready for Ontario’s cheesiest street festival! 🧀 The Grilled Cheese Challenge returns with gooey sandwich competitions, live music, family fun zones, dog shows, a Great Lakes Brewery Garden, and plenty of local shopping and eats. 🕚 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. | 🎟️ Free admission – all ages welcome
  No tickets needed—just show up hungry!
  

• June 13 – Jazz at Durbar: The Matt Pines Trio
  Durbar Indian Restaurant | 2469 Bloor St. W.

  Ease into the weekend with a cozy night of live jazz featuring The Matt Pines Trio and vocals by Francine Kirsh. 🎷✨ No cover—just good vibes, great food, and smooth tunes. 🕖 7:00 p.m. | ☎️ Reserve at 416-762-4441 or drop in for a drink at the bar.
  

• June 15 – Back to the Rock: A Choral Performance
  Bloordale United Church | 4258 Bloor St. W., Etobicoke

  Join the Islington United Church Senior Choir and staff singers for a special Newfoundland Pre-Tour Concert before their East Coast journey. 🎶 Enjoy a powerful afternoon of music while supporting their mission to share song and goodwill with small communities in and around St. John’s. 🕞 3:30 – 5:00 p.m. | 🎟️ $30/ticket – limited to 200 | Proceeds help cover essential travel costs. Tickets available online or in person May 25, June 1 & June 8.
  

• June 21 – Lemonade for Love Fundraiser  
  Fairfield Park | 120 Lotherton Pathway, Etobicoke Lemonade for Love, a heartwarming kid-powered fundraiser, returns for its 10th annual event. Join in supporting the Silver Creek Preschool through the #CaptainXavierFund, aiding children with special needs. Delight in refreshing lemonade, sweet treats, live music, and crafts, all thoughtfully put together by local kids and volunteers. 🕘 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
  

• June 28 - July 1 – Toronto Ribfest at Centennial Park
  Centennial Park | 256 Centennial Park Rd.

  Join us at the famous Toronto Ribfest hosted by Rotary at Centennial Park! This family-friendly event, organized entirely by volunteers from Rotary Etobicoke, promises a delicious assortment of ribs and fun activities. Admission is free, but we kindly ask for donations (around $5) to support Rotary's community programs. Come enjoy great food and contribute to a good cause!
  
  

Weather

• Thurs, Jun 5: High 21°C, Low 15°C 🌧️

• Fri, Jun 6: High 23°C, Low 13°C 🌥️

• Sat, Jun 7: High 24°C, Low 15°C 🌥️

• Sun, Jun 8: High 22°C, Low 13°C 🌥️

• Mon, Jun 9: High 23°C, Low 14°C 🌧️

• Tues, Jun 10: High 17°C, Low 14°C 🌧️

• Wed, Jun 11: High 20°C, Low 13°C 🌧️

Fun & Games

🎈 3 Truths and 1 Lie — Picnic Edition
 
One of these picnic points is a pesky pretense. Can you spot the lie?

A) The word "picnic" is derived from a French word that means "to pick" and "a little bit of this and that."
B) Picnics were popularized during the Victorian era as an elegant social gathering.
C) The record for the largest picnic involved over 22,000 people in Portugal.
D) Ants are naturally repelled by picnic blankets made of gingham fabric.

Answers below…

Answers:
A) ✅ True — The term "picnic" comes from the French "pique-nique," combining "piquer" (to pick) with "nique" (a little bit of this and that).
B) ✅ True — Victorians loved a good picnic, often turning them into elaborate social events.
C) ✅ True — Portugal holds the record for the largest picnic with over 22,000 participants in 2009.
D) ❌ Lie! Sorry, but ants aren't picky about patterns. They won't be deterred by your choice of gingham!

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Thanks for reading! See you next week for more of what’s happening in Etobicoke.

-Bri