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Lung Disease Advocates Push for Oxygen in Pharmacare

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Lung Disease Advocates Push for Oxygen in Pharmacare

Lung Disease Advocates Call for Pharmacare Change

The Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation is pressing Ottawa to include oxygen therapy in the national Pharmacare plan. Advocates argue this shift would ease financial burdens for patients while ensuring consistent access across provinces. Pulmonary fibrosis, a devastating lung disease, has no cure, but treatment options can slow its progression and improve quality of life.

Why Oxygen Access Matters

Pulmonary fibrosis scars the lungs, causing severe breathing difficulties and eventual respiratory failure. While medications can help, many patients rely on long-term oxygen therapy. Currently, oxygen is classified as a drug, yet it is funded as a device. This mismatch leaves patients covering out-of-pocket costs that can be overwhelming.

Sharon Lee, Executive Director of the Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, explained:
“Oxygen is classified as a drug, but funded as a device. People often pay the difference themselves. That needs to change.”

What Advocates Want Ottawa to Do

The foundation submitted a proposal to the Canadian Drug Agency, urging that oxygen be federally funded as a drug. This move would allow funding to flow through to provinces, ensuring equal support nationwide. Advocates stress that no Canadian with pulmonary fibrosis should struggle to breathe simply because they cannot afford treatment.

Current Coverage in Ontario

Ontario covers up to 75% of home oxygen therapy costs under its Assistive Devices Program. Seniors in long-term care and residents on social assistance, including ODSP, may qualify for full coverage. However, coverage varies by province, leaving many families to absorb high costs. Standardizing funding at the federal level, supporters say, would eliminate these gaps.

Community Action and Fundraising

Advocacy also extends beyond government halls. More than 160 people gathered in Ottawa for the Walk for PF event, where patients, families, and supporters shared their stories. The Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation reports that more than $162,000 has been raised to date, with more events planned nationwide. These walks aim to raise both awareness and critical funds for ongoing support and research.

The foundation hopes its push will convince Ottawa to include oxygen therapy in the Pharmacare program, ensuring fair access for all Canadians. For patients facing the daily struggle of pulmonary fibrosis, such a change could mean not just relief, but also dignity.

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Bishnoi Gang in Canada: Terror Label Debate Grows

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Bishnoi Gang in Canada: Terror Label Debate Grows

Bishnoi Gang Debate Hits Canada’s Political Stage

The Bishnoi gang has sparked heated debate in Canada as politicians weigh calls to label the group a terrorist organization. With allegations of violence, extortion, and ties to India’s government, the issue now sits at the crossroads of public safety and political strategy.

Who Is Lawrence Bishnoi?

At the center of it all is Lawrence Bishnoi, an Indian gangster imprisoned for nearly a decade. Despite being behind bars, he allegedly directs operations across India and abroad. Reports link him to high-profile crimes, including the 2022 murder of Punjabi rapper Sidhu Moose Wala, who briefly lived in Canada. Bishnoi has also made chilling threats against Indian celebrities and business leaders.

Links Between the Gang and India

India maintains Bishnoi faces prosecution for his crimes. Yet critics argue he continues to run extortion networks from prison using smuggled phones. National security experts suggest the gang may have once acted as a proxy for India, allegedly involved in transnational repression. While New Delhi denies such claims, suspicions persist.

Criminal Activity in Canada

The Bishnoi gang’s shadow extends into Canada. Police in British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario have tied it to extortion schemes targeting South Asian business owners. RCMP investigators even accused the gang of collaborating with Indian officials to intimidate Sikh activists in Canada who advocate for Khalistan. These claims, however, have fueled diplomatic tension with India, which strongly denies any involvement.

Political Calls for a Terror Designation

Canadian leaders are divided on how to respond. B.C. Premier David Eby, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, and federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre have urged Ottawa to designate the gang a terrorist group. They argue this move would disrupt financing, recruitment, and cross-border operations. However, Public Safety Canada stresses that such listings follow strict evidence-based criteria, not political pressure.

Why Politics Complicates the Issue

Experts note that Canadian parties walk a fine line between courting Sikh and Hindu voters while managing fragile ties with India. Political scientist Jonathan Malloy explains that the Bishnoi debate is as much about domestic politics as foreign policy. The Conservative Party frames the issue as one of law and order, while Liberals emphasize due process.

Would a Terror Label Make a Difference?

If listed, the Bishnoi gang’s Canadian assets could be frozen, banks would block its accounts, and supporters could face criminal charges. Yet some security experts argue the move would be mostly symbolic. They stress that stronger intelligence gathering and law enforcement reforms matter more than symbolic labels.

What Comes Next?

For now, the Bishnoi gang remains under review, and Ottawa has not confirmed whether it will add the group to Canada’s terrorist list. As political pressure mounts, the debate highlights the complex balance between national security, community safety, and Canada’s fragile relationship with India.

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Tesla Cybertruck Sales Struggle as Cheapest Model Axed

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Tesla Cybertruck Sales Struggle as Cheapest Model Axed

Tesla Pulls Plug on Cheapest Cybertruck

The Tesla Cybertruck faced another setback as the company quietly discontinued its cheapest version, a move that highlights growing sales struggles. Just months after its April 2025 launch, the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) model vanished from Tesla’s online configurator, leaving only the more expensive trims available.

From Big Hype to Big Disappointment

When Tesla first unveiled the Cybertruck, hype exploded with more than 1 million reservations. Elon Musk projected annual production of up to 500,000 units. Yet, reality paints a starkly different picture. Tesla is now selling just 20,000 Cybertrucks per year, a fraction of its lofty target.

Why Buyers Walked Away

The RWD version was Tesla’s attempt to lure cost-conscious buyers with a $70,000 price tag, $10,000 cheaper than the all-wheel-drive version. However, this so-called “affordable” option lacked key features. Buyers lost active air suspension, power outlets in the bed, a motorized tonneau cover, and even a second motor. For many, the stripped-down truck simply wasn’t worth the savings.

Industry Reaction and Frustration

Analysts and fans alike were quick to criticize the move. Some noted that there’s already a small pool of potential Cybertruck buyers, and asking them to accept fewer features for only slightly less money killed interest completely. As one industry take put it: “I don’t know of anyone who actually ordered this.”

What’s Next for the Cybertruck?

The big question now is whether Tesla will reinvest in upgrading the Cybertruck to better reflect its original promise. Without meaningful improvements, the truck risks staying stuck at 20,000 annual sales, well below Tesla’s ambitions. Industry watchers believe Tesla may try to reintroduce enhanced features or improved specs next year to reignite demand.

Tesla’s Cybertruck, once seen as a futuristic disruptor, now finds itself struggling to gain traction. Will upgrades revive interest, or will the truck remain a niche product?

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Bonnie Crombie Urges Unity Ahead of Leadership Vote

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Bonnie Crombie Urges Unity Ahead of Leadership Vote

Crombie Stresses Unity Over Ego

Ontario Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie made a passionate plea for unity on Saturday as voting closed in her leadership review. She reminded members that politics is not about ego or entitlement but about building a stronger Ontario together. The final results of the vote will be revealed Sunday afternoon, a moment that could shape the party’s direction.

A Record-Breaking Gathering

Speaking to 2,500 attendees at the Liberal annual general meeting — the largest in party history — Crombie framed the turnout as proof of revival. “Not personal ambition. What unites us is the belief that Ontario can and must be better,” she said, drawing applause.

Her words came as speculation swirled over her critics, including federal MP Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, who placed second in the 2023 leadership race and has openly questioned her leadership after the party’s loss in February’s provincial election.

Gains and Frustrations

Under Crombie, the Liberals regained official party status, lifting their seat count from nine to 14 and securing 30 per cent of the popular vote. Yet, frustrations linger. She failed to win her home seat in Mississauga, and critics argued her campaign team did not do enough to connect with voters outside Toronto.

Despite these setbacks, Crombie emphasized the progress. “Looking around this room today, I see the determination of Liberals who never give up on Ontario,” she said.

Critics Demand a Higher Bar

Some in the party, led by Erskine-Smith and the New Leaf Liberals, argue Crombie should secure at least 66 per cent support to remain leader, even though the constitution requires only 50 per cent plus one. Crombie dismissed the demand, calling it an arbitrary number.

Supporters like strategist Andrew Perez said the focus should be on moving forward with new resources and stronger organization. “Let’s build on those gains and introduce Bonnie across the province,” he said.

What’s at Stake

Crombie has staked her leadership on key issues like health care, housing, education, and community safety. She insists the party’s strength lies in its people and ideas, not one individual. Supporters view her as the best hope to challenge Doug Ford’s Progressive Conservatives in the next election.

As Crombie’s critics push for higher expectations, her allies stress unity. “My focus is a healthy majority and that we all get behind Bonnie,” said Steven Williams, a Toronto Liberal.

The leadership review results will arrive Sunday, determining whether Crombie continues at the helm or faces renewed challenges. For now, she remains focused on rebuilding momentum.

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Regenerative Living: Can We Reverse Environmental Damage?

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Regenerative Living: Can We Reverse Environmental Damage?

For decades, the focus on sustainability has centered around “doing less harm”—reducing emissions, conserving resources, and minimizing waste. But in 2025, experts argue that sustainability alone is no longer enough. Enter regenerative living: a proactive approach that doesn’t just aim to sustain the planet, but to restore, rebuild, and rejuvenate ecosystems.

The question is: can regenerative living truly reverse environmental damage?

What Is Regenerative Living?

Regenerative living goes beyond minimizing harm. It’s a holistic approach that seeks to repair environmental damage while enhancing natural systems. This concept applies not only to agriculture, but also to urban planning, energy production, and lifestyle choices.

Key principles of regenerative living include:

  • Restoring soil health and biodiversity

  • Reducing resource extraction and promoting circular economies

  • Creating positive environmental impact through conscious consumption and renewable energy

In short, it’s about leaving the world better than we found it.

How Regenerative Practices Work

1. Regenerative Agriculture

Instead of traditional industrial farming, regenerative agriculture focuses on soil restoration, carbon capture, and biodiversity. Techniques like cover cropping, no-till farming, and rotational grazing help rebuild ecosystems, increase crop resilience, and reduce greenhouse gases.

2. Renewable and Circular Energy Systems

Beyond reducing fossil fuel use, regenerative energy involves systems that produce surplus clean energy, restore ecosystems, and reduce waste. Examples include solar farms integrated with pollinator-friendly habitats and microgrid systems that recycle energy efficiently.

3. Eco-Conscious Urban Planning

Cities can be regenerative too. Green roofs, urban forests, rainwater harvesting, and waste-to-energy systems not only reduce the urban footprint but actively improve air quality, soil health, and biodiversity within city environments.

4. Lifestyle Choices That Regenerate

Individual actions matter: composting, supporting local regenerative farms, reducing single-use plastics, and choosing products that repair rather than exploit ecosystems can collectively make a meaningful impact.

Can We Really Reverse Damage?

While regenerative living can’t instantly undo centuries of environmental harm, science shows it can create measurable restoration over time:

  • Reforestation and regenerative agriculture can sequester carbon and restore soil fertility.

  • Wetland restoration improves water quality and supports biodiversity.

  • Urban regeneration projects enhance local ecosystems and reduce pollution.

The impact grows exponentially when policies, businesses, and individuals align to scale regenerative practices globally.

Challenges and Considerations

  • Economic and Policy Barriers: Many regenerative methods require upfront investment, education, and government incentives.

  • Consumer Awareness: Without global adoption of regenerative consumption habits, the impact remains limited.

  • Technological Integration: Tracking, scaling, and optimizing regenerative practices often rely on technology like IoT sensors, AI-driven monitoring, and satellite mapping.

Despite these challenges, the potential for real, positive environmental change makes regenerative living one of the most promising approaches to addressing climate and ecological crises.

The Takeaway

Regenerative living is more than a trend—it’s a paradigm shift. It moves humanity from harm reduction to active restoration, offering hope for reversing some environmental damage while building resilient ecosystems.

While we may not fully undo all the past harm, adopting regenerative practices can significantly improve the planet’s health, creating a sustainable and thriving future for generations to come.

AI in Personal Finance: Can Algorithms Make You Smarter with Money?

Henry
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AI in Personal Finance: Can Algorithms Make You Smarter with Money?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer confined to high-tech labs or corporate boardrooms. Today, it’s shaping how we manage our money, from budgeting apps to investment platforms and even credit risk analysis. With AI increasingly embedded in personal finance, the question arises: can algorithms actually make you smarter with money?

How AI Is Transforming Personal Finance

AI-driven tools are reshaping the financial landscape in several ways:

1. Personalized Budgeting and Expense Tracking

AI can automatically categorize spending, detect patterns, and provide personalized recommendations. Platforms like Mint, Cleo, and YNAB use AI to suggest savings goals, alert users about overspending, and forecast cash flow—helping individuals make smarter day-to-day decisions.

2. Smarter Investments

Robo-advisors like Betterment, Wealthfront, and Vanguard Digital Advisor leverage AI algorithms to manage portfolios efficiently. They consider risk tolerance, investment goals, and market trends, providing automated investment strategies at a fraction of the cost of traditional advisors.

3. Fraud Detection and Security

AI can analyze transactions in real-time to detect unusual activity and prevent fraud. By learning individual spending habits, it can flag suspicious charges, helping users protect their money proactively.

4. Credit Scoring and Lending

Some fintech platforms use AI to assess creditworthiness beyond traditional credit scores, considering alternative data like income patterns and spending behavior. This allows more people, especially those underrepresented in traditional banking systems, to access loans responsibly.

Can AI Make You Smarter?

While AI tools provide data-driven insights, they don’t replace financial literacy. Users still need to understand basic principles like budgeting, risk management, and compound interest. AI’s role is to:

  • Reduce human error in calculations and predictions

  • Provide timely insights tailored to individual behavior

  • Encourage better financial habits through nudges and reminders

In short, AI amplifies human decision-making rather than replaces it. Those who pair AI tools with financial knowledge are likely to see the greatest benefits.

Risks and Considerations

  1. Data Privacy: AI platforms require access to sensitive financial data. Users must ensure platforms are secure and transparent.

  2. Over-Reliance: Blindly following AI recommendations can be risky. Algorithms are not infallible and may misinterpret unique circumstances.

  3. Bias in Algorithms: AI is only as good as its data. Poorly designed systems may inadvertently reinforce financial inequalities.

How to Use AI Wisely

  • Start Small: Use AI for budgeting or savings recommendations before entrusting large investments.

  • Stay Informed: Understand how the algorithms work and cross-check advice with human judgment.

  • Combine Tools: Use multiple AI platforms to get a balanced perspective and reduce risk.

The Takeaway

AI in personal finance is a powerful ally—it can analyze complex data, provide insights, and help build better habits. But it works best when paired with financial literacy, critical thinking, and personal responsibility. In 2025, those who harness AI effectively may not only save more and invest smarter but also gain a deeper understanding of their financial lives.

Canada Benefit Cheques 2025: Key Dates and Payment Details

Henry
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Canada Benefit Cheques 2025: Key Dates and Payment Details

Benefit Cheques 2025: What Canadians Can Expect

Federal and provincial benefit cheques will continue supporting Canadians through the rest of 2025, offering relief as expenses rise into the holiday season. From pensions to child benefits, multiple programs ensure seniors, families, and workers receive crucial financial support.

CPP and OAS Payments

The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS) form the backbone of retirement benefits.

  • CPP: Eligible residents over 65 can receive up to $1,433 monthly.

  • OAS Pension: Ages 65–74 may get up to $707.67 monthly, while those 75+ may receive $880.44 if within income limits.

OAS adjusts quarterly based on the Consumer Price Index, ensuring payments rise with living costs. Upcoming CPP and OAS payment dates:

  • Sept. 25

  • Oct. 29

  • Nov. 26

Canada Child Benefit (CCB)

The Canada Revenue Agency distributes the CCB tax-free to families with children under 18. It may also include the child disability benefit. Upcoming dates:

  • Sept. 19

  • Oct. 20

  • Nov. 20

  • Dec. 12

In Ontario, families may also receive the Ontario Child Benefit, worth up to $1,607 annually per child, based on income.

Ontario Trillium Benefit

This monthly benefit bundles the Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit, the Northern Ontario Energy Credit, and the Ontario Sales Tax Credit. Dates ahead:

  • Oct. 10

  • Nov. 10

  • Dec. 10

GST/HST Credit

Designed for low- and modest-income households, this quarterly credit offsets GST/HST expenses. The next payment will be made on:

  • Oct. 3

Veterans Disability Pension

Eligible veterans and service members with service-related injuries or illnesses receive this tax-free monthly benefit. Payment dates include:

  • Sept. 26

  • Oct. 30

  • Nov. 28

  • Dec. 23

Veterans may choose either Pain and Suffering Compensation or a Disability Pension with added support for dependents.

Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)

This refundable tax credit helps low-income workers. It includes a basic amount and a disability supplement. Maximum basic amounts:

  • $1,428 for single individuals

  • $2,461 for families

The next payment date: Oct. 10.

Support for Students Under 25

Starting in 2025, part-time students aged 18–24 with a deceased or disabled parent who contributed to CPP may receive $150.89 monthly. Full-time students will get $301.77 monthly.

Property Tax Rebate for Seniors and People with Disabilities

Low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities who own and live in their homes may qualify for an annual property tax rebate if they receive GIS or ODSP. Eligible applicants also receive a Stormwater Charge Subsidy. Applications close Dec. 31, 2025.

With multiple programs continuing through year-end, benefit cheques in 2025 remain a vital lifeline for Canadian households.

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Bryan Adams Rocks Rogers Arena’s Historic Opening

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Bryan Adams Rocks Rogers Arena’s Historic Opening

Bryan Adams lit up Rogers Arena’s first night in 1995 with an unforgettable show, marking a milestone moment in Vancouver’s music history.

A Night Vancouver Will Never Forget

Back in September 1995, Vancouver witnessed a milestone that still sparks conversation three decades later. Rogers Arena—known then as GM Place—opened its doors for the very first time. And who better to set the stage than Canada’s own rock legend, Bryan Adams? The Surrey-raised superstar wasn’t just the first act to perform in the brand-new arena—he also helped cement the venue’s legacy as a go-to spot for world-class entertainment.

Bryan Adams Brings the House Down

The arena’s debut show was more than just a concert. It was a celebration. Adams, already a global name by the mid-’90s, gave fans a night that blended his biggest hits with the electric buzz of opening a venue destined to host countless iconic events. Every seat was filled, and the crowd’s energy echoed through the rafters, creating a moment etched in Vancouver’s cultural memory.

Why the First Show Mattered

This wasn’t just another tour stop. Rogers Arena’s launch was a statement—Vancouver was ready to stand shoulder to shoulder with the world’s great entertainment cities. Having Bryan Adams, a local hero with international fame, headline opening night made the occasion even more meaningful. It was a perfect mix of community pride and global stardom.

From 1995 to Today

Fast-forward 30 years, and Rogers Arena remains a powerhouse venue. From unforgettable concerts to NHL showdowns, its story began with Adams leading the charge. That banner hanging in the rafters serves as more than a reminder—it’s a symbol of how one unforgettable night helped shape Vancouver’s live entertainment scene.

#Bryan Adams Rocks Rogers Arena’s Historic Opening

Why it matters today: That first concert wasn’t just a beginning; it was a promise. A promise that Vancouver would always be on the map for the biggest and best shows.

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Surrey Plans 590 New Homes and Shelters

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Surrey Plans 590 New Homes and Shelters

Surrey could soon see 590 new homes and shelter spaces across three sites, offering affordable, supportive, and complex-care housing.

A Major Step Toward Housing Solutions

Surrey may soon get a boost in affordable housing and shelter options. The B.C. Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs has unveiled a proposal to deliver 590 new homes and shelter spaces in the city. The plan, announced late Friday, targets Whalley/City Centre and South Surrey, aiming to meet the city’s fast-growing housing needs.

Housing Minister Christine Boyle emphasized the province’s commitment:
“People have different housing needs, and we’re working hard to help everyone find a place that fits them. Alongside municipal partners, we’re making sure people can live affordably near their jobs and loved ones. At the same time, we’re helping individuals move indoors where they can access the supports they need to rebuild their lives.”

Partnerships Driving Progress

This proposal is a joint effort between the Province, BC Housing, and the City of Surrey. The developments will feature affordable rentals, supportive housing, complex-care homes, and emergency shelter spaces—spread across three sites.

Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke highlighted the urgency:
“Surrey is the fastest-growing city in British Columbia. The demand for housing here is unlike anywhere else. With the Province, we’re making progress to deliver the safe, stable homes and supports our residents deserve.”

Breaking Down the Three Proposed Sites

Semiahmoo Town Centre (South Surrey)

📍 15238 19 Ave. and 1880 152 St.

  • 260 homes planned

  • Includes 40 supportive homes and 20 complex-care homes

  • Mixed-use design with housing and health supports under one roof

Surrey City Centre (Whalley)

📍 13633 Grosvenor Rd.

  • 100 homes planned

  • 60 supportive homes + 40 shelter spaces

  • Land provided by the City of Surrey

  • Focused on addressing emergency shelter needs

Mayflower Housing Co-op (City Centre)

📍 13216 104 Ave.

  • 230 new affordable rental homes

  • Targeted at individuals and families with low to moderate incomes

  • Designed to offer long-term stability and affordability

What’s Next?

All three projects need rezoning approval from the City of Surrey before moving forward. Once approved, BC Housing plans to share more details, including funding breakdowns and timelines, and will also seek community input.

If successful, these developments will not only add homes but also create a stronger, more inclusive housing market in Surrey—one where residents can find stability, support, and opportunity.

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Zombie-Looking Crows in Victoria Spark Concern

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Zombie-Looking Crows in Victoria Spark Concern

Strange-looking crows with crusty faces in Victoria are raising eyebrows. Experts explain avian pox and why locals shouldn’t panic.

Spooky Sight Along Dallas Road

If you’ve spotted crows in Victoria looking like they just stepped out of a Halloween set, you’re not alone. Along Dallas Road, flocks of birds with crusty, wart-like growths have been startling passersby. But before you imagine a bird apocalypse, wildlife experts want you to know the culprit is a natural—though eerie—virus called avian pox.

What’s Really Happening to the Crows?

Avian pox is a viral disease that causes rough, wart-like nodules on the bare parts of a bird’s body, such as the beak, legs, or around the eyes. While it may look gruesome, it isn’t unusual. In fact, wildlife rehabilitators at the BC SPCA’s Wild ARC see it every year.

Wallis Reid, senior wildlife rehabilitator at the Metchosin-based centre, explains:

Why Now? Seasonal Spread Explained

Reports of infected crows have spiked recently, fueled by photos shared online. But Reid notes this timing is typical. After breeding season, younger birds spread out and gather in larger groups. With weaker immune systems, they’re more prone to infections like avian pox.

Despite the rise in sightings, Wild ARC hasn’t seen more sick birds admitted. Most infected crows can still fly, making them difficult to rescue. Intervention is usually only possible if a bird becomes weak enough to be contained.

Can Avian Pox Kill Birds?

The virus itself is rarely fatal. However, lesions can interfere with essential functions like eating, walking, or even breathing. In severe cases, secondary infections may develop. Still, most birds recover naturally.

Ann Nightingale, a volunteer with Rocky Point Bird Observatory, reassures locals:

How the Virus Spreads

Avian pox spreads mainly where birds gather closely—such as roosting sites or shared feeders. This explains why Victoria’s crow population, known for its massive communal roosts, is seeing a seasonal surge in cases.

To help, Nightingale advises homeowners to keep backyard feeders and birdbaths clean. If sick birds appear, removing feeders temporarily allows birds to disperse, reducing the risk of transmission.

Should People Be Worried?

Despite their spooky appearance, the “zombie” crows along Dallas Road pose no threat to humans. Experts stress there’s no need for alarm—just curiosity and maybe a bit of compassion.

So next time you see a crusty-faced crow, remember: it’s not a scene from a horror flick. It’s simply nature doing what it does—and most of these resilient birds will heal on their own.

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Hockey Shines as Top Sport at 55-Plus B.C. Games

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Hockey Shines as Top Sport at 55-Plus B.C. Games

Hockey dominates the 55-Plus B.C. Games in Nanaimo, drawing over 450 players. Seniors prove age is just a number on the ice.

Hockey Takes the Lead in Nanaimo

Who says hockey is just for the young? In Nanaimo, the 55-Plus B.C. Games proved otherwise, as more than 450 players laced up their skates. With 33 teams battling it out, hockey claimed the title of the most popular sport at this year’s event, held September 10–13.

How the Games Are Organized

According to Norm Smith, chair of 55-Plus hockey, teams are spread across zones in the province to keep things fair. “We try to let one team per zone come,” Smith explained. That way, no zone dominates, and everyone gets a chance to compete.

The tournament included seven men’s divisions and two for women. Still, because some divisions had uneven numbers, organizers had to combine them. While that led to the occasional lopsided score, Smith said players were having fun, with only a few minor injuries reported.

The Local Heroes: Nanaimo Old Buoys

Among the five teams representing Nanaimo was the crowd favorite—the Nanaimo Old Buoys. This 75-plus squad was formed by local drop-in hockey players and managed by veteran player Al Seriani.

Seriani said the team had warmed up with three exhibition games before the tournament—and won them all. But things got tougher when they were placed against players from the 70–75 division.

“That makes a huge difference,” Seriani noted. “A lot of these guys are 10 years younger than some of our players.”

Age Brings Wisdom—And Strategy

While younger players have the edge in speed, Seriani insists that strategy levels the playing field. “I’ve been playing hockey for 40 years, and I really enjoy the camaraderie. That’s what it’s all about—fun, friendship, and competition.”

Hockey Proves Timeless

The 55-Plus B.C. Games are more than just a tournament; they’re a celebration of community spirit and the enduring love of sport. And with hockey drawing the highest participation, one thing is clear—passion for Canada’s game doesn’t fade with age.

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B.C. Lions Dominate Redblacks in 38-27 Comeback Win

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B.C. Lions Dominate Redblacks in 38-27 Comeback Win

Nathan Rourke shines as B.C. Lions crush Ottawa Redblacks 38-27, with big plays on offense and defense securing a strong rebound victory.

Lions Bounce Back with Early Firepower

The B.C. Lions made a statement Friday night at BC Place, roaring past the Ottawa Redblacks 38-27. After last week’s shocking 34-33 road loss, the Lions came out swinging, refusing to let history repeat itself. Quarterback Nathan Rourke led the charge, throwing for 308 yards and a touchdown while rushing for two more majors.

James Butler, Keon Hatcher, and Deontai Williams also found the end zone, helping the Lions improve to 6-7 on the season. Meanwhile, defensive lineman Mathieu Betts dominated with four sacks, and kicker Sean Whyte added a field goal along with five converts.

First-Half Blitz Sets the Tone

B.C. wasted no time. Ottawa received the opening kickoff but quickly fell under pressure when Betts sacked QB Dustin Crum, forcing a stalled drive. The Lions responded immediately, with Butler powering in a two-yard touchdown. Whyte’s convert gave B.C. a 7-0 lead.

A 47-yard field goal from Ottawa’s Lewis Ward cut the deficit to 7-3, but the Lions weren’t finished. Hatcher snatched a Rourke pass at the seven-yard line and bulldozed into the end zone, making it 14-3 by the end of the first quarter.

Ottawa fought back early in the second, narrowing the score to 14-10 after Crum scored from a yard out. Yet, Rourke and the Lions answered swiftly. Highlighted by a 51-yard connection to Hatcher, Rourke capped a long drive with a one-yard QB keeper. By halftime, the Lions led 28-13, with Rourke completing all but one of his passes in the first two quarters.

Defensive Dominance Keeps Ottawa in Check

After halftime, B.C. maintained control. Whyte’s 13-yard field goal extended the lead to 31-13 early in the third quarter. Then Williams delivered a game-changing moment, strip-sacking Crum and returning the ball 41 yards for a touchdown, pushing the lead to 38-13.

Ottawa tried to rally, with Crum connecting with Justin Hardy for a touchdown, but the two-point conversion failed. The Redblacks pulled off a successful onside kick, momentarily reviving the crowd, but the Lions’ defense held firm, forcing a punt and eventually allowing B.C. to control the clock in the fourth quarter.

Late Scores Close Out the Game

Ottawa added a late touchdown on a one-yard sneak by Crum with just 33 seconds left, followed by a two-point conversion to Hardy, finalizing the score at 38-27. Despite the late surge, the Lions had already done enough to secure a satisfying victory.

Key Takeaways

  • Nathan Rourke: 308 passing yards, 1 TD, 2 rushing TDs

  • B.C. defense: 7 sacks, including 4 by Betts

  • Offensive highlights: Hatcher (97 yards), Butler TDs

  • Ottawa’s Addison led all receivers with 132 yards

With this rebound win, the Lions gear up for a showdown with the Calgary Stampeders on Sept. 19, while the Redblacks host the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Sept. 20.

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