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$180M Waste-to-Energy Plant to Open in Charlottetown by 2028

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Charlottetown’s $180M waste-to-energy plant will process 90% of PEI’s black-bin trash by 2028, reducing landfill use and powering local buildings.

Major Clean Energy Investment for PEI

Charlottetown is set to host a new $180-million waste-to-energy facility that will process nearly 90 per cent of Prince Edward Island’s black-bin garbage. The project, led by Enwave Energy Corporation with support from the Canadian Infrastructure Bank, the Province of PEI, and the City of Charlottetown, is scheduled to open in 2028.

Location and Capacity

The plant will be built on the site of the existing P.E.I. Energy Systems facility on Riverside Drive. Once complete, it is expected to double the capacity of the current plant, which now processes about 42 per cent of black-bin waste from Charlottetown and surrounding areas.

Purpose and Benefits

The expansion will significantly cut down on the province’s landfill use while providing more clean energy for homes, businesses, and institutions. Currently, Charlottetown’s district energy system heats 145 buildings, including Queen Elizabeth Hospital and City Hall. The new facility will improve system efficiency and lower carbon emissions, according to Enwave CEO Carlyle Coutinho.

Stakeholders and Support

Enwave Energy is spearheading the initiative, with financing from the Canada Infrastructure Bank, which loaned the company $600 million for projects nationwide. Charlottetown Mayor Philip Brown praised the project as good news for both the city and the province, citing its potential to reduce landfill waste while expanding renewable energy use.

Construction and Timeline

Construction is expected to begin late 2025 or early 2026, depending on weather conditions, and will take about three years to complete. The new facility will go into full operation in 2028. The current 42-year-old plant will be decommissioned but retained for potential future energy projects, ensuring space remains available for biomass and other renewable initiatives.

Broader Impact

The project is seen as a landmark for sustainable growth on the Island. Canada Infrastructure Bank CEO Ehren Cory said the investment aligns with the Crown corporation’s mandate to support initiatives that deliver both financial returns and public benefits, such as cleaner air, reduced landfill use, and reliable, low-cost energy for Islanders.

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Karan Aujla Makes History on Tonight Show

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A Historic Moment for Punjabi Canadian Music

Karan Aujla, the Juno-winning Punjabi Canadian artist, has made history by becoming the first from his community to perform on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. On September 9, the Vancouver-based singer lit up the stage with a medley featuring Boyfriend and Gabhru from his chart-topping album P-Pop Culture.

P-Pop Culture’s Record-Breaking Success

Aujla’s latest album has rewritten global music charts. P-Pop Culture debuted at No. 1 on Spotify in India and Pakistan, while reaching No. 4 in Canada. On Apple Music, it claimed the top spot in all three regions. Every track from the album entered Spotify’s Top 200 and Apple Music’s Top 50, proving its massive appeal.

The success carried into the Billboard charts, with P-Pop Culture landing at No. 3 on the Canadian Albums Chart, marking the highest debut ever for a Punjabi-language album. Aujla’s previous project, Making Memories, peaked at No. 5 in 2023, but his latest effort has pushed boundaries even further.

Sharing the Stage with Global Icons

With this feat, Aujla now stands in league with international sensations like BTS and Blackpink. His Fallon performance included longtime collaborator Ikky and dancers dressed in traditional attire, blending cultural pride with mainstream appeal. The set highlighted the global rise of the Punjabi Wave, a movement now firmly recognized in Canada with the creation of a Juno Award category for South Asian music.

From Local Recognition to Global Spotlight

Aujla first broke into the Canadian mainstream after winning the 2024 TikTok Fan Choice Award at the Junos. Long before that, he had cultivated a loyal following in the Punjabi pop scene with his vibrant hooks and upbeat sound. His Tonight Show performance solidified his place as a bridge between local talent and international recognition.

What’s Next for Aujla

Fans won’t have to wait long to see more. This November, Aujla will headline the first Rolling Loud India festival in Navi Mumbai. The lineup also features hip-hop stars like Wiz Khalifa and Don Toliver, alongside Toronto’s Gurinder Gill, marking another milestone for Punjabi Canadian representation on the global stage.

Karan Aujla continues to break barriers, proving Punjabi pop belongs on the world’s biggest platforms.

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Canadian Tourism Booms as Locals Travel at Home

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Tourism across Canada is surging as more Canadians choose local destinations, boosting regional economies and reshaping post-pandemic travel habits.

Travel Trends on the Rise

Tourism operators across Canada are reporting a surge in bookings as Canadians increasingly choose domestic destinations over international trips. The trend has gained momentum throughout the summer, with popular attractions and hidden gems alike seeing record interest.

Why Canadians Are Staying Local

Industry experts point to several factors behind the shift. Rising international airfare costs, currency exchange challenges, and growing environmental awareness have encouraged more travellers to explore closer to home. In addition, a wave of regional marketing campaigns has reminded Canadians of the diversity and beauty available within their own borders.

Economic Boost for Communities

The renewed focus on local travel is benefiting communities nationwide. From small towns in Atlantic Canada to resort hubs in British Columbia, tourism spending has injected fresh energy into local economies. Hotels, restaurants, and cultural attractions have seen steady increases in visitor numbers, creating new jobs and stabilizing businesses still recovering from pandemic losses.

Destinations in the Spotlight

Cities such as Quebec City, Vancouver, and Halifax have experienced particularly strong growth, while rural destinations like Prince Edward Island’s beaches and Alberta’s national parks continue to attract outdoor enthusiasts. Lesser-known regions, including northern Ontario and Saskatchewan, are also drawing first-time visitors looking for authentic experiences.

How Canadians Are Travelling

Instead of long-haul trips, many Canadians are opting for road trips, rail journeys, and regional flights. Families are booking longer stays in vacation rentals, while solo travellers and young professionals are prioritizing cultural and adventure-based experiences. Travel advisors note a growing interest in Indigenous tourism offerings, reflecting a broader desire for meaningful and educational trips.

Looking Ahead

Tourism officials believe the momentum will continue into the fall and winter seasons, particularly with Canadians showing greater interest in ski resorts, northern lights tours, and holiday markets. As domestic travel grows in popularity, experts suggest the trend could permanently reshape how Canadians balance international and local travel in the years ahead.

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Guelph man charged with murder after downtown assault

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An 80-year-old woman has died after a downtown Guelph assault, leading police to upgrade charges against a 34-year-old man to second-degree murder.

The Accused and the Charges

A 34-year-old Guelph man is now facing a second-degree murder charge after police say an 80-year-old woman died from injuries sustained in a violent downtown attack.

The Incident on Wyndham Street

Emergency crews were called around 9:40 a.m. on August 31 to Wyndham Street North near Macdonell Street. The woman was found unconscious on the sidewalk with life-threatening injuries and rushed to hospital.

How the Case Developed

Police initially charged the man with attempted murder and aggravated assault. After the victim died three days later, investigators upgraded the charge to second-degree murder on Wednesday.

Evidence and Witness Accounts

Investigators said no weapon was used in the attack. Instead, the woman had been “severely beaten.” Police spokesperson Scott Tracey confirmed that witnesses and surveillance video from the area helped identify the suspect and supported the upgraded charge.

Connection Between Victim and Suspect

Police believe the man and woman had encountered each other before, though they were not close acquaintances. Authorities have not released the woman’s name to protect the family’s privacy.

Court Proceedings

The accused appeared in court Wednesday to face the new charge. The investigation remains ongoing as police continue to gather additional evidence.

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Ottawa Council Approves Staff Cap in 2026 Budget Fight

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Ottawa council votes 14-10 to cap full-time workforce for 2026 amid concerns over service delivery and tax pressures.

City limits staff growth in next year’s payroll

Ottawa City Council has narrowly approved a motion that will cap the number of full-time equivalent staff positions on the municipal payroll for 2026. The motion, brought forward by Rideau-Jock Coun. David Brown, passed in a 14-to-10 vote during the council meeting held on Wednesday, as part of budget deliberations.

Budget constraints drive decision

Council was also considering a directive to city staff to limit any property tax increase in the 2026 budget to 3.75 per cent. The workforce cap is intended to align with that directive, helping control municipal expenditures as the city prepares its next annual financial plan.

Exceptions to cap include front-line services

The approved motion includes carve-outs: it does not apply to firefighter, paramedic, police, and bylaw services, or to sectors with provincially mandated staffing levels such as long-term care and child care. Brown argued that the restraint will focus on “back-office operations … that might not be right on the front line.”

Calls for fiscal responsibility

Supporters, including Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, emphasized the need to show Ottawa residents that city spending is being managed “very, very responsibly,” especially during what he described as an affordability crisis. Coun. Brown called the motion “moderate” and “reasonable,” noting Ottawa has lost thousands of private-sector jobs recently and faces economic headwinds.

Critics warn of stretched resources

Opponents of the motion expressed concern that the city is already understaffed in key areas. Kitchissippi Coun. Jeff Leiper, among others, described city staff as too often “stretched too thin,” citing delays in planning approvals, traffic calming measures and other municipal services. Bay Coun. Theresa Kavanagh urged caution, warning that without enough personnel, many files and projects won’t move forward efficiently.

What now: moving into 2026

With the workforce cap approved and the property tax increase limit also adopted, Ottawa Administration must now prepare the 2026 budget under these new constraints. How staff allocations will shift, what levels of service will be adjusted, and how back-office operations will absorb reductions are the key questions ahead. Council will need to balance residents’ demand for services with fiscal discipline.

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Book Bans by Right-Wing Groups Stir Education Debate

Book bans by right-wing groups spark nationwide debate over education, inclusivity, and the future of school libraries in Canada and beyond.

Rising Tensions in Schools

Book challenges led by right-wing advocacy groups have become increasingly common across North America, with growing attention now reaching Canadian school boards. The movement, which began as a push against what critics call “divisive” or “inappropriate” materials, is raising fundamental questions about academic freedom and representation in classrooms.

Spotlight on the Controversy

At the centre of the debate are books dealing with race, gender identity, and LGBTQ+ experiences. Advocates for bans argue that certain titles expose children to themes they believe are unsuitable. Opponents counter that removing these books erases marginalized voices and undermines students’ right to access diverse perspectives.

When the Issue Escalated

The surge in book challenges accelerated over the past three years, paralleling broader cultural debates. In 2025, several Canadian school districts reported a noticeable rise in requests to review or remove materials, mirroring similar trends across the United States.

Where Communities Are Divided

School board meetings from Ontario to British Columbia have turned into flashpoints, with parents, educators, and students voicing strong and often opposing opinions. Libraries have become the symbolic battleground, forcing districts to make difficult decisions under intense public scrutiny.

Why It Matters to Education

The controversy goes beyond individual titles. Educators warn that book bans risk narrowing curricula, discouraging critical thinking, and silencing stories that reflect Canada’s diverse population. Supporters of inclusivity argue that representation in literature fosters understanding and empathy, which are essential in modern classrooms.

How the Debate Moves Forward

School boards are responding in different ways. Some have tightened review policies to ensure transparency, while others are defending the principle of open access to literature. National education associations are urging policymakers to balance parental concerns with students’ rights to learn in inclusive environments. The ongoing debate suggests the issue will remain at the forefront of Canada’s education system for years to come.

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Alberta Health Workers Reject AHS Agreement

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Health Workers Reject Tentative AHS Deal

Front-line health workers in Alberta have rejected a tentative deal with Alberta Health Services (AHS). The Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA) confirmed that 59.37% of members voted against the proposed agreement, sending a clear message that the deal did not meet their expectations.

Union Voices Members’ Frustrations

HSAA president Mike Parker emphasized that members are standing firm for meaningful change. “Front-line health care professionals are rejecting a deal that does not do enough to support them,” Parker said. He added that health workers want fair wages and adequate resources to manage the pressures they face daily.

Who the HSAA Represents

The HSAA represents over 22,000 specialized professionals. These include paramedics, respiratory therapists, mental health counsellors, diagnostic imaging experts, pharmacists, physiotherapists, dietitians, social workers, and many more. Together, they form the backbone of Alberta’s health system.

Staffing Shortages and Burnout Take Center Stage

Parker warned of a dangerous shortage of health care workers. Albertans already experience long wait times, delayed surgeries, and overwhelmed emergency rooms. He stressed that HSAA members face “unmanageable workloads and burnout that is driving professionals out of the system.” Without stronger support, the situation could worsen.

No Strike Yet, But Pressure Builds

Despite rejecting the deal, HSAA has not called for a strike vote. Instead, the union is urging AHS and the province to return with a stronger wage proposal. Members remain committed to their patients but expect solutions that address staffing shortages and compensation concerns.

Province Responds to Vote Outcome

Alberta’s finance minister, Nate Horner, expressed disappointment over the outcome. He noted that the tentative agreement was based on terms the HSAA itself had proposed. Horner said it is now up to the union to explain why members rejected their own framework. Still, he assured that the province is prepared to return to the bargaining table.

What Comes Next?

The rejection raises uncertainty about the next phase of negotiations. Health workers want a deal that acknowledges their value, reduces burnout, and keeps professionals in the system. The province, meanwhile, faces increasing pressure to balance budgetary limits with urgent staffing needs.

The fight for a fair health care agreement is far from over.

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Calgary Teachers Strike Looms as Talks Stall

Calgary Faces Teacher Strike Deadline

More than 12,000 Calgary teachers could walk off the job on October 6 if no settlement is reached. The teachers strike would impact over 213,000 students across Calgary’s public, Catholic, and FrancoSud schools. Parents, students, and school boards are now bracing for potential disruption.

Parents and Students React to Strike Threat

Parents say they stand with educators despite the challenges ahead. “If they need to strike, I’ll support them,” said parent Iryna Shvets. Students, too, fear the impact. “If my coach goes on strike, our volleyball season may be delayed. I don’t want that. We need teachers here,” explained high schooler Lara Moussa.

Teachers Push for Fair Wages and Support

The Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) has demanded higher wages and more resources to address rising class sizes and complex student needs. While the Teachers’ Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA) has offered a 12% wage increase over four years and pledged 3,000 new teachers, the ATA insists the proposal falls short.

Union Says Patience Has Run Out

ATA president Jason Schilling emphasized teachers’ frustration: “They continue to show up daily in good faith, but they are tired. Tired of disrespect, tired of distractions, and tired of being asked to do more with less. Patience has run out.”

Province Urges Negotiations to Resume

Premier Danielle Smith acknowledged the growing tension. “I hope we can return to the table and reach an agreement to avoid strike action,” she said. However, with no confirmed negotiation date, uncertainty lingers. The province also retains the option to lock out teachers before October 6.

What Happens Next?

If no deal emerges before October 6, Calgary’s schools could face widespread closures. Parents are urged to arrange alternative childcare, while students await clarity on how the strike might affect academics and extracurriculars.

The countdown to October 6 has begun, and the city now waits for answers.

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Elon Musk Regains World’s Richest Person Title

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Elon Musk vs. Larry Ellison: A Billionaire Showdown

For a brief moment, Elon Musk lost his crown as the world’s richest person to Oracle cofounder Larry Ellison. But thanks to market shifts, Musk quickly reclaimed the title, edging out Ellison by just $1 billion. The dramatic turnover highlights how surging demand for AI is rewriting not only tech landscapes but also billionaire rankings.

Oracle’s Stunning Earnings Spark Historic Gains

Ellison’s fortune soared after Oracle reported record-breaking earnings. AI-fueled demand for data center capacity catapulted Oracle’s stock by as much as 43% before closing up 36%—its biggest single-day surge since 1992. That leap temporarily boosted Ellison’s net worth to $383.2 billion, eclipsing Musk’s wealth for a few hours.

Musk Reclaims the Top Spot

By Wednesday’s close, Musk’s fortune stood at $384.2 billion, regaining his top position as the world’s richest person. Oracle’s gains still marked history: Ellison experienced the largest one-day wealth jump ever recorded, with an $89 billion increase.

Oracle’s AI Push Reshapes the Market

Oracle’s CEO Safra Catz revealed the company secured four multibillion-dollar contracts during the quarter and expects more soon. Its $455 billion AI backlog reflects staggering demand, with Oracle supplying massive computing power for companies like OpenAI. Analysts note Oracle’s rise cements its role as an AI infrastructure giant, not just a software vendor.

Shifting Fortunes in the AI Era

While Oracle rides the AI boom with stock gains of 97% this year, Tesla shares have slipped 14%, impacting Musk’s portfolio. Still, Musk’s long-term stakes in Tesla and SpaceX help him maintain dominance, even as rivals like Bernard Arnault and Jeff Bezos briefly surpassed him in past years.

Ellison’s Storied Path to Riches

At 81, Larry Ellison remains one of Silicon Valley’s most influential figures. From cofounding Oracle in 1977 to owning 98% of Hawaii’s Lana’i island, his legacy stretches far beyond software. With his close ties to politics, major sports investments, and speculation around TikTok, Ellison continues to shape global industries.

As the AI boom fuels new fortunes, billionaire rankings may shift faster than ever.

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Wales Coach Bellamy Wants Rematch After Canada Win

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Canada’s 1-0 win over Wales sparks tension as coach Craig Bellamy voices frustration with celebrations and calls for a World Cup rematch.

Post-Match Frustration

Canada’s 1-0 victory over Wales in Swansea on Tuesday ended with sharp words from Welsh coach Craig Bellamy, who criticized Canada’s late-game celebrations. The men’s international friendly, decided by a Derek Cornelius free-kick goal, was Canada’s second straight win under coach Jesse Marsch.

Bellamy’s Reaction

Bellamy, visibly frustrated in his post-game media availability, took issue with Canada’s sideline behaviour before the final whistle. “I really hate losing, more than I like winning,” he said. “I saw them celebrating and thought, ‘I hope I see you in a World Cup. I hope I see you again.’”

Canadian Response

Marsch downplayed the incident, suggesting it was his staff rather than himself leading the animated gestures during stoppage time. “They weren’t happy we were slapping fives in the 93rd minute,” Marsch explained. “We respect Wales and their staff. We want them to succeed.”

Competitive Stakes

While Tuesday’s clash was a friendly, Wales is in the midst of a tight World Cup qualifying campaign. Currently ranked No. 31, the team sits third in its group behind Belgium and North Macedonia. Only the group winner advances directly, while the runner-up faces a playoff route.

Why It Matters

The exchange highlights how even friendlies carry emotional weight, particularly for teams under pressure in qualification. For Canada, the win builds momentum ahead of their November friendly against Venezuela. For Wales, the frustration underscores the urgency of their World Cup bid under a new coach.

Looking Ahead

Bellamy, appointed in July 2024, is still shaping Wales’ identity after a long playing career with clubs including Liverpool, Manchester City, and Newcastle. His fiery response suggests a rematch with Canada — whether at a World Cup or another international stage — could carry added intensity.

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Mazda Recall: CX-90, CX-70 SUVs Face Crash Risk

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Mazda Issues Major Recall Over Safety Risk

A fresh Mazda recall is making headlines as more than 14,000 SUVs face a defect tied to faulty fuel gauges. The issue directly raises the risk of crash, with affected vehicles including the 2024 and 2025 Mazda CX-90 and the 2025 CX-70. Drivers are warned that incorrect fuel readings could cause unexpected stalls, creating dangerous situations on the road.

Details of the Recall

Mazda confirmed that the problem lies within the instrument cluster. In some SUVs, fuel levels may appear higher than they truly are, leading drivers to believe their tanks are not empty. If the vehicle stalls mid-drive, the chances of collisions naturally rise, especially on busy highways.

Impact in Canada and the U.S.

While the recall affects 14,000 vehicles in Canada, the United States is facing an even bigger recall. Reports show that more than 100,000 Mazda CX-90 and CX-70 SUVs are impacted south of the border. This underscores the seriousness of the problem and Mazda’s push to act quickly across both markets.

Mazda’s Response and Next Steps

Owners will soon receive letters in the mail from Mazda, instructing them to book a free maintenance appointment. During the visit, dealers will update the software in the body control module to correct the fuel gauge error. Until then, drivers are urged to refuel once their gauge shows one-quarter of a tank or lower, avoiding any chance of stalling.

Support for Concerned Drivers

Mazda has also provided direct contact options. Owners can call 1-800-263-4680 or visit the official Mazda website for further instructions. The company stressed that it is committed to ensuring safety and preventing any incidents tied to the defect.

Mazda drivers should act quickly to keep roads safe and avoid unnecessary risks.

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Illness Forces Mike Woods Out of Montreal Farewell Race

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Canadian cyclist Mike Woods withdraws from Montreal swansong due to illness and pending hernia surgery, ending his career earlier than planned.

Veteran Rider Ends Season Early

Canadian cyclist Mike Woods has withdrawn from Sunday’s Grand Prix Cycliste de Montréal, cutting short what was meant to be his farewell race. His team, Israel–Premier Tech, confirmed Wednesday that the 38-year-old from Ottawa has been sidelined by illness and will undergo hernia surgery.

The Race He Will Miss

The Grand Prix Cycliste de Montréal, a 209.1-kilometre event, is one of two prestigious one-day WorldTour races held annually in Quebec. While Woods had not planned to compete in Friday’s Québec City race, the Montreal start line was meant to serve as the final chapter of his 13-year professional career.

Health Challenges Behind the Withdrawal

According to Israel–Premier Tech, Woods had been struggling with illness for over a week, leaving him unable to compete at the required level. The hernia surgery now scheduled will prevent him from racing again this season. The team described the decision as unavoidable given his condition.

Career and Retirement Plans

Woods announced in August that this season would be his last as a professional cyclist, citing the physical toll and years spent away from his family. A former middle-distance runner who famously ran a sub-four-minute mile before switching to cycling, Woods went on to compete in multiple Tours de France and represent Canada at the Olympics. He has hinted at future pursuits in endurance sports following retirement.

Canadian Presence in Quebec Races

Despite Woods’ absence, Israel–Premier Tech will still field seven riders across both Quebec races, including Canadians Hugo Houle and Guillaume Boivin. The start list features 23 teams and more than 160 riders from over 30 countries, making it one of the strongest fields outside the Grand Tours.

Controversy Surrounding the Event

This year’s Montreal race has also faced political tension. The group Palestinian and Jewish Unity (PAJU) urged Mayor Valérie Plante to bar Israel–Premier Tech from participating, citing Israel’s actions in Gaza. The request has fueled debate, though organizers have not indicated any plans to exclude the Canadian-Israeli backed team.

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