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 today’s newsletter: students stacking toys for a good cause, bike lanes sparking debate on Bloor, and accessible housing breaking ground in Lakeshore. Plus, we’ve got festive events, a new healthcare clinic, and the week’s weather forecast. Let’s dive into this week’s scoop!

News

🎁 Etobicoke Students Help Build a Toy Mountain for Kids in Need 🎁

The Toy Mountain campaign recently visited St. Ambrose Catholic School in Etobicoke, where students and staff enthusiastically contributed to the annual toy drive. This initiative, aimed at providing holiday gifts to children in need, has become a cherished tradition within the community. The school's participation highlights the spirit of giving and community involvement that defines the Toy Mountain campaign.

🚧 401 Tunnel: Progress Stuck in Traffic? 🚧

The Ontario government's ambitious plan to construct a tunnel beneath Highway 401, aimed at alleviating traffic congestion, appears to be idling. Recent reports indicate that, despite initial enthusiasm, tangible progress on the project's feasibility study has been minimal. Critics are voicing concerns over the project's viability and the potential for escalating costs, urging the government to provide clearer timelines and updates.

🚴‍♂️🚒 Bloor Bike Lanes: Pedal Power vs. Fire Response? 🚒🚴‍♂️

Toronto Fire Services has raised concerns that the installation of bike lanes on Bloor Street could impede emergency response times. Internal documents reveal apprehensions about potential delays in navigating the narrowed roadway during emergencies. As the city continues to promote cycling infrastructure, balancing public safety with sustainable transportation remains a critical discussion point.

🌱 Accessible Housing for the Deafblind Takes Root in Etobicoke 🌱

The Canadian Helen Keller Centre just broke ground on a game-changing 56-unit affordable housing complex in Etobicoke’s Lakeshore area. Designed for individuals who are deafblind, the six-story building will feature accessible apartments, a rooftop garden, and a training facility to help residents build essential life skills. Supported by the City of Toronto and federal funding, this first-of-its-kind project is set to open its doors in July 2025, proving that inclusion starts at home.

Correction
In last week’s issue, we incorrectly stated that a rejected proposal sought to relocate Father John Redmond Catholic Secondary School during renovations. The correct information is: the proposal involved relocating Bishop Allen Academy to Scarlett Heights Entrepreneurial Academy temporarily. We sincerely apologize for the oversight and appreciate your understanding.

Community Announcements

🍁 Friendly Reminder, Etobicoke! Yard waste is collected until mid-December. Check your collection schedule to make sure you don’t miss your last yard waste pick up. Learn more here.

🏥 There's a new spot in town for your healthcare needs. Foundation Health is opening a brand-new family medical clinic at 600 The East Mall, offering services like women’s health, physiotherapy, and more. Starting December, it’s open 7 days a week with extended hours. Stop by their Open House, Dec. 1 from 11AM to 5PM or Dec. 2-3 from 4PM to 7PM, to meet the team and enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, and snacks!

Upcoming Events & Happenings

• 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.

• Nov. 28th - Paint & Sip Night Fundraiser

  Lakeshore Arts | 2422 Lake Shore Blvd W 

  Follow along with local artists Serene Illustrations to learn acrylic painting techniques from 6:30p - 9:30p. Tickets: Starting at $50

• Nov. 29th - Musical Fridays Concert

  Old Mill | 21 Old Mill Rd.

  Enjoy music from famous movies and TV shows: Interstellar, Game of Thrones, Bridgerton, The Greatest Showman, and you will also hear famous Ukrainian compositions: Leontovych's "Shchedryk" and Ivasyuk's "I Will Go To Distant Mountains". Starts at 7p. Tickets: $35

• Nov. 30th - Holiday Night Market

  Nickel Brook Brewing Co. | 1589 The Queensway

  Bring your wishlist and sip while you shop from 5p - 10p. Free admission

Weather

• Thursday, Nov. 28: High 4°C, Low -1°C ☁️

• Friday, Nov. 29: High 5°C, Low -1°C ☁️

• Saturday, Nov. 30: High 2°C, Low -2°C ❄️

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

• Monday, Dec. 2: High 1°C, Low -6°C 🌥️

• Tuesday, Dec. 3: High -1°C, Low -6°C ☁️

• Wednesday, Dec. 4: High 0°C, Low -6°C ☁️

Fun & Games

Quick Laugh

Why don’t snowmen get into arguments?
Because they just let things slide. ⛄

Congratulations to David S., Lisa M., and Sue P. for being the first three readers to reply to last week’s Trivia game.

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