This $1B project will change Toronto’s map

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Good afternoon — The air stinks, landlords are desperate, and an artificial new island is quietly forming in the lake. Also: Rogers buys half the city’s sports teams and Toronto’s tow truck war is out of control.

Let’s get to it!

THE DIGEST

🏝️ Toronto’s New Island Takes Shape: Toronto’s new artificial island is making progress. The $1B flood protection and revitalization project is set to transform the Port Lands into a walkable neighbourhood with parks, trails, shops, and housing for 15,000 residents.

💨 Toronto’s Air Stinks: Toronto briefly recorded the worst air quality in the world due to heavy wildfire smoke drifting from northern Ontario and Western Canada — briefly beating out cities like Delhi and Jakarta.

💰 Free Rent and Gift Cards: Toronto landlords are battling for tenants by offering perks like $500 gift cards, free rent, and complimentary parking. With record condo supply and dropping rents, renters hold rare negotiating power—though experts warn it may not last.

🫆 Tow Truck Turf War Escalates: Police released footage of two March shootings tied to a tow truck turf war and violent incidents including a Scarborough pub mass shooting. Eleven suspects face 200+ charges in the citywide crackdown.

🤝 Rogers Gets Bigger: Rogers secured approval to buy Bell’s 37.5% stake in Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment for $4.7B—boosting its ownership to 75%. The deal covers the Leafs, Raptors, Argos, TFC, and Marlies.

MORE YOU NEED TO KNOW

✈️ Toronto Eyes Europe: Destination Toronto is opening new offices in the U.K. and Germany to reel in more international travellers. The move aims to boost tourism and counter a recent drop in American visitors.

🍖 Street Food For Under $10: The new Underground Night Market at Harbourfront Centre Commons runs every weekend through July. Featuring DJs, handmade goods, and local food vendors for under $10.

🏀 Raptors Throwback Party: To celebrate the 6th anniversary of their 2019 championship win, the Raptors are hosting a free block party at Harbourfront Centre on June 13. Expect DJs, a 3-on-3 tourney, beer, and food.

TORONTO THEN AND NOW:
Canada Permanent Loan and Savings Building

Once towering over Toronto Street, this grand five-storey building—completed in 1857—was originally intended as a concert hall but instead became home to shops, offices, and the city’s largest Masonic Lodge. It hosted Freemasons until their move to Yonge and Davenport. Later, it served as insurance offices before being demolished in the 1960s. On the left, the stately columns of the Seventh Post Office (1851–1853) still stands.

THINGS TO DO IN TORONTO: THE ‘INSIDER’ SCOOP

Last day! Do West Fest 2025 - Kick off summer in style at Do West Fest 2025, a lively celebration of music, art, food, and community in Little Portugal—featuring live performances, extended patios, food trucks, artisan markets, kids’ activities, and interactive experiences.
June 8 | 11:00AM - 6:00PM
Location: Dundas Street West (between Ossington and Lansdowne), Little Portugal

Taste of Little Italy - Kick off summer at Taste of Little Italy, Toronto’s beloved street festival featuring 200+ local vendors, a food truck festival, extended patios, live music on every block, and a new main stage with performances, plus a stunning projection art show celebrating the neighbourhood’s history.
June 13 | 7:00 PM - 1:00 AM
June 14 | 11:00 AM - 1:00 AM
June 15 | 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Location: College St (between Bathurst St and Shaw St)

Editor’s Pick! Institutional Brutalism at University of Toronto Walking Tour - Explore the bold and often misunderstood world of Brutalist architecture on a walking tour of the University of Toronto. Led by renowned architectural photographer Vik Pahwa, you will uncover the striking beauty, controversy, and cultural legacy of this divisive design movement.
June 12 | 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM (arrive 5–10 minutes early)
Start Location: Spadina Subway Station (West Side)

Island Eats Food and Travel Festival - Escape to the tropics without leaving the city at Island Eats Food and Travel Festival, a celebration of Caribbean cuisine, culture, and island adventures—featuring delicious eats, cocktails, travel showcases, and live music.
June 15 | 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Mel Lastman Square

Jays vs. D-Backs - June 17 - June 19 (see schedule/tickets)
Jays vs. White Sox - June 20 - June 22 (see schedule/tickets)

RECOS: Things you will love
 
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🐈 Pets: The Secret Weapon for Fur-Free Floors

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VIDEO OF THE WEEK

This T.O. building was strangely one of Canada’s first Ford factories.

Here is the link: Click here to watch

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