Good morning, Etobicoke! I’m Bri, the voice behind Etobicoke Scoop. Whether you're easing into the day or ready to hit the ground running, here’s your dose of local news, events, and stories to keep you in the loop.

In this week’s newsletter:

👶 New Year, New Baby: Etobicoke welcomes 2026’s first!
💧 Water Woes: Broken main floods local intersection
🚚 Charity Chaos: Vandalism hits Second Harvest trucks
🚶‍♂️ Rexdale Incident: Pedestrian in critical condition

Plus: Art exhibits, networking events, Winterlicious 🍽️

THE DIGEST

👶🏥 First Baby of 2026 Arrives at Etobicoke General Hospital 👶🏥 
Welcome to the world, little one! Etobicoke General Hospital proudly welcomed the first baby of 2026, a bouncing baby boy born to parents from Brampton. Clocking in at 6 pounds, 8 ounces, this adorable arrival marks the start of new beginnings for families in the area. With exciting developments on the horizon, including partnerships with Toronto Metropolitan University, Osler is gearing up for an innovative future in healthcare.

💧🚧 Watermain Woes Flood Etobicoke Intersection 🚧💧 
An Etobicoke intersection faced a watery disaster as a major watermain break at The West Mall and The Queensway led to its closure, causing traffic chaos on Tuesday. Toronto police rushed to the scene amidst messy weather conditions, including rain and freezing rain. While The West Mall has since reopened after being shut down in both directions, the cause of the break remains a soggy mystery.

🚚🔥 Truck Trouble for Second Harvest Charity 🚚🔥 
Four Second Harvest delivery trucks fell victim to vandalism on New Year's Day, disrupting operations for the food rescue organization. Water in the fuel tanks left two trucks stranded in Etobicoke, while two others broke down on highways. This act of sabotage impacted the delivery of 20,000 pounds of food to 29 charities, sparking disappointment and confusion as to why someone would hinder their vital work. Second Harvest is now relying on rented trucks as they navigate repairs and the ongoing police investigation.

🚶‍♂️🚗 Pedestrian Struck in North Etobicoke: Critical Condition 🚗🚶‍♂️ 
A man in his 30s was critically injured after being hit by a vehicle near Rexdale Boulevard and Highway 27. The victim, unidentified, was rushed to a trauma center with life-threatening injuries. As a result, Highway 27 closed temporarily in both directions at Rexdale.

Upcoming Events

• Jan. 8-14 – New Vistas: Alder for the Heart Exhibition
  Etobicoke Civic Centre Art Gallery | 399 The West Mall
  Explore diverse perspectives on identity through works by emerging visual artists, curated by Humber College’s Arts Administration program. A thought-provoking display highlighting early-career talent.| Free Admission
  

• Jan. 8-29 – Exploring the Ubiquitous Yet Humble Asian Grocery Store

  Etobicoke Civic Centre Art Gallery | 399 The West Mall

  Discover the vibrant and thought-provoking art exhibition by Sam Lee, which delves into the cultural significance of Asian grocery stores through the lens of Western influence. This compelling display invites you to reflect on the intersection of tradition and modernity, showcasing the complexities of identity and migration. Don't miss this free and accessible opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of East Asian culture and its transformation over time.

  🕗 Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Free Admission
  

• Jan. 9 – Etobicoke Women's Networking: Authentic Connection for Women in Business
  152 Thirtieth St
  Join like-minded women entrepreneurs and professionals for meaningful networking, idea exchange, and relationship-building in a supportive environment focused on personal and professional growth. 🕗 11:00 a.m. start | $12 admission (free for members)

• Jan. 30-Feb. 12 – Winterlicious

  Various Locations | Across Toronto

  Embrace the culinary delights of Toronto with Winterlicious, featuring over 240 participating restaurants. Enjoy three-course prix fixe menus that offer a wide range of flavors, from cozy comfort foods to exciting global cuisines. Perfect for food lovers looking to explore new tastes or enjoy their favorites. 🍽️

  🕒 Lunch and Dinner | 🍽️ Lunch: $20-$55, Dinner: $25-$75 | Reserve your table starting January 15.

• Feb. 1 – Hymns to Freedom: Black History Month Docu-Concert

  Humber Valley United Church | 76 Anglesey Blvd.

  Join the Etobicoke Philharmonic Orchestra for a heartfelt celebration of Black History Month with "Hymns to Freedom." This docu-concert features renowned Canadian artists Jackie Richardson and Corey Butler, blending music, storytelling, and history to honor Black artistry and resilience. Experience themes of struggle, hope, and unity in an inspiring and uplifting community event. 🕑 2:00 p.m. | 🎟️ Tickets available at the door or online.

Weather

• Thu, Jan 8: High 2°C, Low -2°C 🌥️

• Fri, Jan 9: High 11°C, Low 1°C 🌧️

• Sat, Jan 10: High 2°C, Low 0°C ❄️

• Sun, Jan 11: High 3°C, Low -3°C ❄️

• Mon, Jan 12: High 1°C, Low -5°C 🌥️

• Tue, Jan 13: High 3°C, Low 0°C 🌥️

• Wed, Jan 14: High 2°C, Low -3°C ❄️

Fun & Games

😄 Giggle Time

Why did the bicycle fall over?
Because it was two-tired! 🚲

🎉 New Year’s Poll Recap: Etobicoke Loves a Cozy Night In

Looks like we were all on the same wavelength to kick off 2026 — the overwhelming majority of you said you spent New Year’s Eve at home. Many of you were in your PJs, had snacks in hand, and maybe a movie playing in the background.

Honestly? Same here. I kept things low-key this year too, and it was the perfect way to unwind and reset for what’s ahead.

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