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Canada Joins India, Australia in New Tech Alliance

Nicole
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Canada Joins India, Australia in New Tech Alliance

Canada partners with India and Australia on a new G20-backed technology alliance to boost clean energy, AI adoption and resilient supply chains.

Canada Joins India, Australia in New Tech Alliance

Launch of a Strategic Partnership

Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed a new trilateral technology partnership with India and Australia during the G20 summit in Johannesburg on Saturday. The agreement, unveiled through a joint statement, establishes the Australia-Canada-India Technology and Innovation Partnership (ACITI), marking a significant shift toward deeper cooperation among the three democracies.

Focus on Emerging Technologies

Under ACITI, the countries aim to collaborate on advancing emerging technologies, strengthening critical mineral supply chains, and expanding clean-energy innovation. Officials say the partnership will also prioritize the safe development and widespread adoption of artificial intelligence to improve public services and economic competitiveness.

Timing and Next Steps

According to the joint release, senior officials from all three nations are expected to meet in the first quarter of 2026 to formalize plans and “take the initiative forward.” The gathering will outline early projects, governance structures, and investment pathways connected to ACITI.

Backdrop of Diplomatic Reset

The move comes as Canada works to rebuild diplomatic ties with India following two years of tension over allegations by the RCMP that New Delhi was involved in the murder and extortion of Canadian citizens. By entering this cooperative framework, Ottawa signals a renewed commitment to stability and shared economic priorities with India and Australia.

G20 Context and Global Positioning

Carney’s announcement unfolded alongside broader G20 negotiations, where most leaders reached a consensus on a joint declaration addressing climate action, women’s rights, and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East—despite the United States choosing to boycott the statement. For Canada, ACITI aligns with its global strategy to diversify technological partnerships and reduce reliance on concentrated supply chains.

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Carney, Allies Say Trump’s Ukraine Peace Plan Needs Fixes

Alex
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Carney, Allies Say Trump’s Ukraine Peace Plan Needs Fixes

Canada and key world leaders say Trump’s Ukraine peace plan needs major revisions, warning it could endanger Kyiv as Zelenskyy faces mounting pressure.

Canada, Allies Push Back on Trump’s Ukraine Proposal

Leaders Meet Amid Rising Tensions

Prime Minister Mark Carney joined more than a dozen world leaders in Johannesburg on Saturday, gathering on the sidelines of the G20 summit as concerns mounted over Ukraine’s worsening battlefield and political challenges. The meeting followed President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s stark warning that the country faces “one of the most difficult moments in its history.”

Concerns Over Plan’s Core Terms

The leaders issued a joint declaration urging revisions to U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed peace plan, which Kyiv must accept or reject by Nov. 27. The statement emphasized that borders “must not be changed by force” and expressed alarm at provisions limiting the size of Ukraine’s armed forces — a measure seen as leaving Kyiv vulnerable to future aggression.

Details of the U.S. Proposal

Trump’s 28-point proposal would require Kyiv to cede territory, abandon NATO aspirations, and accept strict military caps — long-standing demands from Moscow. A draft viewed by journalists indicates the plan also calls for partial Russian withdrawals from occupied areas, a detail that could complicate Moscow’s response.

Zelenskyy Warns of Dire Choices

In a national address on Friday, Zelenskyy described “intense pressure” from Washington to accept terms that Kyiv views as deeply unfavorable. He said Ukraine faces a stark decision between “the loss of dignity” and jeopardizing its relationship with a key ally.

Canada and Partners Call for Sustainable Peace

Countries present — including Canada, the U.K., France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, Finland, Spain, and EU institutions — said they remain committed to a settlement that protects Ukraine’s sovereignty and long-term security. Carney held bilateral talks with leaders such as French President Emmanuel Macron to underscore the need for a “just and lasting peace” shaped with Ukraine’s full participation.

Media Access Restricted at G20

South Africa’s tight control over media at the summit prevented foreign news crews, including Canadian outlets, from filming bilateral sessions. The restriction is considered highly unusual for a global gathering of this scale.

Mixed International Reactions to Trump’s Plan

Trump, who is boycotting the G20, defended his proposal Friday, saying Zelenskyy would “have to like it.” In Moscow, Vladimir Putin said the plan could form a basis for future talks, claiming Russia is prepared to show “flexibility.”

U.K. Counters Moscow’s Claims

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticized Russia’s posture ahead of Saturday’s working sessions, saying Moscow’s actions contradict its statements on peace. He highlighted ongoing drone and missile attacks, including more than 1,000 drones and 50 guided missiles used against Ukrainian cities in recent weeks.

G20 Continues Without U.S. Participation

With Trump absent and no U.S. officials attending, the summit moved forward as South Africa released its leaders’ declaration reaffirming that all states must act within international law. The U.S. president has repeatedly criticized the host nation, renewing disputed claims about the persecution of white farmers.

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Mexico Travel Advisory Sparks Political Tensions

James
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Mexico Travel Advisory Sparks Political Tensions

A Mexican lawmaker says misreported changes to Canada’s travel advisory were used to target President Claudia Sheinbaum amid rising security tensions.

Mexican Lawmaker Says Canada Advisory Fueled Political Attacks

Political Context Drives Reaction

A senior lawmaker from Mexico’s governing Morena party says misleading reporting on a Canadian travel advisory update has been weaponized to politically attack President Claudia Sheinbaum. Deputy Maribel Solache González argued this week that opposition groups amplified incorrect information to fuel a narrative of worsening national insecurity.

How the Advisory Shifted

Global Affairs Canada adjusted its Mexico travel advisory on Nov. 13, easing risk levels in parts of Mazatlán, Sinaloa, while leaving the rest of the long-standing guidance unchanged. Despite this, Mexican media outlets circulated reports claiming Canada had issued a sweeping new warning covering 13 states—an interpretation Canadian officials did not support.

Why the Issue Escalated Now

The confusion erupted days after a major anti-government protest ended violently, as demonstrators expressed frustration over public-safety concerns. Tensions were already high following the assassination of Carlos Manzo, the outspoken mayor of Uruapan, Michoacán, whose killing sparked widespread demonstrations.

Government Response and Diplomatic Questions

President Sheinbaum said her administration would seek clarification from the Canadian Embassy, noting that the advisory “doesn’t count for much” given an 11% increase in Canadian tourism to Mexico this year. Global Affairs Canada declined to comment on any diplomatic exchanges, while Mexico’s foreign ministry provided no response to media inquiries.

Opposition Lawmakers Cite Security Failures

Opposition parties rejected suggestions of political manipulation, insisting the advisory reflects real security threats. Deputy Mario Zamora Gastélum of the PRI said violence in Sinaloa remains severe, with thousands killed or missing over the past year. A recent survey showing widespread fear in Culiacán, he said, underscores the urgency of the situation.

Regional Safety Concerns Intensify

Members of Mexico’s National Action Party (PAN) also criticized the federal security strategy, pointing to expanding violence in several states, including Jalisco—where Canada has long warned against travel within 50 kilometres of the Michoacán border. PAN Deputy Paulina Rubio Fernández said federal inaction has allowed violence to deepen.

Tourism Industry Pushes Back

In Guerrero state, tourism leaders urged Canada to reconsider its position entirely. Francisco Aguilar Ordóñez, who heads a hospitality association in Acapulco, said Canadians remain welcome and safe, adding that economic recovery relies on restoring visitor confidence.

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McCartney Thrills Hamilton With Record-Length Hits Show

James
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McCartney Thrills Hamilton With Record-Length Hits Show

Paul McCartney delivered a historic, sold-out Hamilton show, sharing Beatles stories, civil-rights memories and decades of greatest hits at TD Coliseum.

McCartney Thrills Hamilton With Record-Length Hits Show

A Historic Night for Fans

Paul McCartney, 83, brought his Got Back tour to Hamilton on Friday night, performing one of the longest career-spanning setlists of his five-decade career. The sold-out show at TD Coliseum marked his final Canadian stop, drawing thousands who came to witness what many called a once-in-a-lifetime musical experience. McCartney moved between Beatles classics, Wings favourites and solo hits, shaping a night that blended nostalgia with cultural history.

Stories Behind the Music

Mid-performance, McCartney paused to share the origins of “Blackbird,” explaining how the civil rights movement of the 1960s inspired him to write the song. He recalled a 1964 Jacksonville, Florida concert where the promoter attempted to segregate the audience. The Beatles refused, he said, prompting the venue to integrate the show — the first of its kind there. The reflection underscored the social backdrop behind many of his most enduring songs.

A Journey Through Beatles History

The concert moved through pivotal moments from Liverpool to global fame, as McCartney played early Beatles tracks including “From Me to You,” “Hello Little Girl” and “Love Me Do.” He used the setlist to honour John Lennon, George Harrison and Ringo Starr, sharing stories and performing “Here Today” as a tribute to Lennon. A ukulele gifted by Harrison was used to open “Something,” blending personal memory with musical legacy.

Energy That Defied His Age

At 83, McCartney powered through a demanding set without pause, moving from “Get Back” to “Let It Be” with ease. A standout moment came during “Live and Let Die,” which filled the arena with pyrotechnics and cheers. For “Mull of Kintyre,” he invited the 25-member Paris Port Dover Pipe Band to join him, creating one of the night’s most emotional and distinctly Canadian performances. Fans described the show as unforgettable and overwhelmingly moving.

Emotional Moments for the Crowd

Local fans arrived hours early, many carrying lifelong attachments to Beatles music. Tim Potocic, owner of Hamilton’s Sonic Unyon Records, said he expected to cry during the performance after waiting his entire life to see McCartney. Others, like Mike and Mary Guyatt, attended as part of a 70th-birthday gift arranged by their daughters. The shared anticipation added to the electric atmosphere inside the newly reopened venue.

Hamilton’s Cultural Connection to Liverpool

Many in attendance noted Hamilton’s historic, working-class parallels to Liverpool, McCartney’s hometown. Abbie Jolly, who couldn’t afford the high ticket prices but joined a Beatles singalong at the nearby Hamilton Central Library, said her family’s Liverpool roots made the event meaningful. With her grandparents meeting on Penny Lane and her name inspired by Abbey Road, she said the concert brought global and local histories together.

A Newly Revitalized Coliseum Takes Centre Stage

The concert was also a showcase for the newly renovated TD Coliseum, previously FirstOntario Centre, which reopened Friday after a $300-million, two-year transformation. The upgraded 18,000-seat arena now features floor-level box seating, expanded lounges and new dining options, including chef Matty Matheson’s Iron Cow Public House. The redesign was intended to attract major artists away from Toronto and Vancouver — and Friday’s show proved that strategy successful.

Canada’s Final Stop on the Tour

Hamilton and Montreal were McCartney’s only Canadian dates on the Got Back tour, making the night especially meaningful for fans nationwide. The tour, which began in 2022 and rekindled enthusiasm for McCartney’s live performances, will conclude Tuesday in Chicago. As he exited the stage, the crowd’s roar reflected both gratitude for his enduring artistry and excitement for Hamilton’s arrival as a major stop on the global touring map.

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Queen’s Park Unveils Expanded Holiday Decorations

James
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Queen’s Park Unveils Expanded Holiday Decorations

Queen’s Park unveils expanded holiday décor as Speaker Donna Skelly aims to attract more visitors while keeping spending far below the approved $500,000 budget.

Skelly’s Holiday Makeover Brightens Queen’s Park

A More Welcoming Legislature

Speaker Donna Skelly has ushered in a significantly expanded holiday display at Queen’s Park, introducing more lights, décor and public-facing attractions than in previous years. The initiative began in late November at the Ontario legislature in Toronto, where Skelly says she is working to make the historic building more open and appealing to residents across the province.

A Festive Transformation Across the Building

Compared to past years—when a single decorated tree dominated the exterior—the grounds now feature illuminated hedges, lit tree trunks, reindeer-shaped installations and strings of lights framing the main entrance. Inside, the familiar grand staircase display has been extended throughout the building with plastic and real poinsettia trees, large lighted chandeliers, lit archways and Christmas trees lining the chamber corridors. Skelly’s objective, she said, is to showcase the beauty of the legislature and encourage more people to visit.

Motivation Behind the Revamp

Skelly, appointed Speaker earlier this year, said the effort stems from her desire to restore pride in the building and address years of underinvestment in upkeep and decoration. She recalled moments early in her political career when she felt “fortunate” to walk the halls and wanted to ensure the public could share that same sense of connection. Members from all parties applauded the new decorations during this week’s legislative session.

Budget Questions and Spending Figures

The Board of Internal Economy approved up to $500,000 for holiday décor purchases this year, along with $150,000 annually for storage, installation and removal. However, Skelly stated the actual cost was “much under” the approved amount, noting that most décor was rented and that plans to fully illuminate the building were scaled back. Some groups, including the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, cautioned that future spending could rise to meet the full budgeted amount.

Setup, Logistics and Timeline

The décor was installed earlier than usual due to scheduling needs, requiring the use of artificial trees for this season. Permanent bulbs were added to portions of the exterior lighting setup. The display will remain in place until Orthodox Christmas in January. Skelly said these decisions were made to enhance visitor experience while maintaining fiscal restraint.

Engaging the Public Through Seasonal Events

To further draw residents to Queen’s Park, the legislature is hosting several holiday-themed events, including an artisan market, Taste the Holidays at the gift shop on December 1, and lunchtime children’s choir performances throughout the month. Later in December, festive evenings will offer building tours, Santa visits, carolling and craft activities. Skelly said her efforts are rooted in a commitment to helping Ontarians feel that the legislature is “their home.”

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Toy Story Turns 30 as Pixar Fights to Regain Its Spark

James
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Toy Story Turns 30 as Pixar Fights to Regain Its Spark

Toy Story marks 30 years as Pixar faces box office struggles and rising global competition, forcing the studio to rethink its creative direction.

Toy Story Turns 30 as Pixar Fights to Regain Its Spark

A Milestone Celebration

Pixar is marking the 30th anniversary of Toy Story—the groundbreaking 1995 film that reshaped global animation—with brand collaborations, concerts, new merchandise and archival Steve Jobs interviews. The studio is showcasing its legacy at events across North America as fans revisit the film that made 3D animation a household concept. The anniversary arrives this month as Pixar seeks to remind audiences why the franchise remains a cultural cornerstone.

A Shift in Momentum

Despite its celebratory mood, Pixar faces a landscape far different from the one that launched Toy Story. Over the past decade, many of the studio’s original films have underperformed at the box office, overshadowed by international animation powerhouses and smaller teams producing visually striking work at lower cost. Analysts say that while Pixar’s sequels remain reliable performers, its newer ideas have struggled to connect with saturated global audiences.

Industry Competition Intensifies

Experts across North America note that the competition Pixar once dominated has transformed. Studios using open-source animation tools, along with rising Asian markets producing hits such as Ne Zha II and Demon Slayer, have broadened the field. These creators are taking bigger risks and experimenting with fresh styles that stand out in a crowded market—an approach Pixar has been slower to adopt. As one industry observer put it, “Pixar used to define the standard; now, others are rewriting it.”

Internal Pressures Mount

The company’s internal production model also plays a role in current challenges. Pixar’s collaborative “Brain Trust” approach—long praised for refining stories—has increasingly been criticized for over-workshopping creative concepts. Recent reports suggest that projects like Elio underwent major revisions to appeal to wider demographics, diluting the personal vision of their creators. This shift, analysts say, has made it harder for Pixar to take risks that once fueled its success.

Changing Creative Identity

Pixar’s evolving visual style has further complicated its revival strategy. The studio, once synonymous with non-human characters and technical breakthroughs, has leaned heavily into human-driven stories over the past five years. Some animators argue the shift has muted Pixar’s once-distinctive identity. Meanwhile, its next film, Gatto, ventures into 2D-inspired hand-drawn aesthetics—an animation style the studio has never produced, signaling a possible rebrand but also raising questions about audience expectations.

A Challenging Path Ahead

Whether Pixar can reclaim its former dominance remains uncertain. Innovations pioneered by the studio are now accessible worldwide, and competitors have embraced experimentation in ways that mainstream studios increasingly avoid. As Pixar balances nostalgia with the need for creative reinvention, industry experts suggest the studio may be entering a more modest era—one defined not by unmatched dominance, but by adaptation to a rapidly expanding animation landscape.

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B.C. School Trip Turns Tragic After Grizzly Bear Attack

Chuck
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B.C. School Trip Turns Tragic After Grizzly Bear Attack

A rare grizzly attack on B.C. students left four injured, including two critically, as conservation officers search for the bear still loose near Bella Coola.

Four Hurt in Bella Coola Grizzly Attack on School Group

Incident Overview

A routine school field trip in Bella Coola, B.C., turned tragic Thursday when a grizzly bear attacked a group of students and staff, leaving two people in critical condition and two others seriously injured, according to B.C. Emergency Health Services. Seven additional individuals were treated on-site for minor injuries and shock.

Location and Conditions

The attack occurred along a forested trail near the community’s 4 Mile area, where the group had stopped for lunch. Poor weather conditions required specialized air support from the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre to transport the most severely injured to medical care.

Victims and Response

Witnesses said teachers and students attempted to shield one another as the bear charged. One male teacher suffered the “full brunt” of the attack, according to community members. Three children were among those badly injured.
All injured individuals were stabilized at Bella Coola Hospital before being transferred to Vancouver for advanced care.

Community and School Impact

Acwsalcta School, operated by the Nuxalk Nation, confirmed that its students and staff were involved. The school announced its closure Friday, calling the incident devastating and expressing gratitude for the bravery shown during the attack. About 20 people were on the field trip.

Nuxalk Nation Chief Samuel Schooner said the attack was “unprecedented” and caused “significant trauma” across the community. Support services and transportation alternatives have been offered so residents can avoid the area.

Investigation and Public Safety Measures

The B.C. Conservation Officer Service, working with RCMP, reported that initial evidence suggests the bear may have been injured prior to the attack. Residents have been urged to stay clear of the forest and river zone near 4 Mile as officers work to track and capture the animal, which remains at large.

Regional officials say bear encounters have risen sharply this year in Bella Coola, though an attack of this scale is considered extremely rare.

Community Reaction

Jayme Kennedy, chair of the Central Coast Regional District, said the region is reeling from an event she described as “unimaginable” and unlike anything previously experienced in the area. Local leaders expressed solidarity with the Nuxalk Nation and pledged full support as the community recovers.

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Late-Night REM Train Collision Kills One, Injures Two

Willy
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Late-Night REM Train Collision Kills One, Injures Two

A late-night REM train collision in Longueuil left one dead and two critically injured, prompting service suspensions and a provincial police investigation.

REM Train Collision Leaves One Dead Near Du Quartier Station

Emergency Alert in Early Hours

Longueuil police said they received a call shortly after 3 a.m. Saturday reporting that three young adults had been struck by a REM train on Montreal’s South Shore. The incident occurred during non-operational hours when no scheduled trains were running.

Location and Initial Findings

The collision took place near the Du Quartier station, a key stop on the REM line serving the South Shore. Officials confirmed that one person died at the scene, while two others were rushed to hospital with serious and potentially life-threatening injuries.

Cause Cited as Track Intrusion

According to the REM communications department, the early morning tragedy stemmed from an “intrusion onto the tracks.” Authorities have not yet identified why the group accessed the restricted area, but investigators are working to determine the circumstances.

Service Disruptions as Crews Respond

Emergency response teams shut down REM service between Du Quartier and Brossard stations in both directions to secure the area and support the investigation. A shuttle service was deployed to accommodate passengers affected by the suspension.

Ongoing Provincial Investigation

Quebec’s provincial police have taken over the investigation to examine how the incident unfolded, what safety measures were in place, and whether additional precautions are needed to prevent similar intrusions.

Next Steps and Public Safety Focus

Officials say more information will be released as investigators analyze surveillance footage, train data, and witness accounts. REM has urged the public to stay clear of restricted rail infrastructure while emphasizing the importance of safety around active and inactive rail lines.

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Alberta’s Doctor Plan Raises Insurance, Staffing Fears

James
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Alberta’s Doctor Plan Raises Insurance, Staffing Fears

Alberta’s doctor plan to allow dual public-private practice raises concerns over burnout, nurse shortages, insurance changes and Canada Health Act risks.

Alberta’s Doctor Plan Raises Insurance, Staffing Fears

A New Direction for Alberta’s Health System

Alberta is preparing legislation that would let physicians work in both the public and private systems simultaneously—a first in Canada. Premier Danielle Smith revealed the plan earlier this month, saying it could boost access to surgeries and reduce wait times. With the fall legislative session ending next week, the government has not confirmed when the bill will be introduced or what specific rules it will contain. Officials say the model would never force Albertans to pay out-of-pocket for medically necessary care, but critics argue the proposal still leaves major unanswered questions.

Context From Other Provinces

The Canadian Medical Association says no province allows the same kind of dual practice Alberta is considering. Quebec comes closest, but recent legislation there has actually restricted private-sector growth by requiring new medical graduates to stay in the public system for at least five years. Quebec has more private-practice doctors than the rest of the country combined, leading some specialists to pursue greater flexibility. Supporters say private clinics help patients who face long waits for family doctors; opponents warn that Alberta may be opening a path for the same large-scale shift toward privatization.

Physician Burnout and Workload Pressures

Under Alberta’s plan, surgeons would need to complete a required number of public procedures before performing additional private surgeries, possibly during evenings or weekends. National surveys already show high levels of burnout among physicians, prompting concerns about patient safety and surgeon fatigue. CMA President Dr. Margot Burnell cautions that surgical care delivered at the end of a long workday increases risks, while some Alberta surgeons acknowledge the financial incentives may attract interest regardless of capacity constraints. The Alberta Medical Association says it has been promised a role in shaping the regulations but still lacks critical details.

Implications for Nurses and Surgical Teams

Nurses’ organizations fear the hybrid model could siphon skilled staff from public hospitals to private facilities. The United Nurses of Alberta, which represents more than 30,000 registered nurses, says the province already faces staffing shortages with no immediate way to expand the workforce. Health leaders note that surgeries require entire teams—including anesthetists, specialized nurses and support staff—who may be drawn to higher-paid private positions. Critics say Alberta risks weakening the public system if team members migrate to private clinics, a trend they argue is already occurring in chartered surgical centres.

Legal and Constitutional Questions Ahead

Experts warn Alberta’s approach may collide with the Canada Health Act, which prohibits charging patients for publicly insured services. If the federal government concludes the legislation violates the act, Ottawa could withhold health transfers, although historically such penalties have been slow and limited. Legal scholars note that Alberta’s strained relationship with the federal government may make the province less likely to retreat if threatened with funding cuts. Judicial review is possible, though courts have generally avoided requiring governments to expand or guarantee specific levels of health services.

How Insurance Markets Could Shift

Premier Smith has suggested that private surgeries could be paid through personal funds or insurance plans, raising questions about the future of private coverage in Alberta. Health policy researchers say the change could invite more insurance companies to offear parallel coverage for procedures performed outside the public system. Startup insurers and industry executives view the proposal as an opportunity to broaden benefits packages. Employers could eventually adjust workplace plans to include more private surgical coverage, although that may boost costs. Major insurers, including Alberta Blue Cross, say they will evaluate the implications once the legislation is released.

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Alcohol Exclusion From Trade Deal Frustrates Producers

Alex
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Alcohol Exclusion From Trade Deal Frustrates Producers

Canadian brewers and winemakers criticize provinces for excluding alcohol from a new trade deal, warning delays are raising costs and hurting competitiveness.

Alcohol Exclusion From Trade Deal Frustrates Producers

Industry Reaction

A new agreement signed Wednesday by Canadian provinces, territories, and the federal government has ignited frustration across the country’s beverage-alcohol sector. While the deal aims to ease interprovincial trade restrictions for select goods, alcohol was omitted — a move that industry leaders say undermines years of advocacy.

Adin Wener, managing partner at Toronto-based Henderson Brewing Company, said the industry had expected long-promised progress. He noted that many brewers facing U.S. tariffs were counting on expanded domestic markets. “We should be one country, especially in the face of tariffs,” he said.

Lingering Barriers

Producers say the continued exclusion of alcohol reinforces challenges that complicate business operations. Those include differing provincial packaging requirements, shipping rules, and pricing structures, all of which can add months to distribution timelines.

Canada’s alcohol sector is already grappling with inflation, declining consumption among younger demographics, and rising costs for materials like aluminum. For breweries and wineries, interprovincial hurdles remain one of the few obstacles that government policy could remedy, yet progress remains slow.

Years of Delays

In July, nine provinces and one territory signed a memorandum of understanding to simplify direct-to-consumer alcohol sales by May 2026. But industry experts say that without firm commitments, timelines mean little.

Jeff Guignard, CEO of WineBC, said the sector has waited too long. “We haven’t been talking about this for weeks. We’ve been talking about this for years,” he said. He also pointed to added costs facing B.C. wineries shipping into Alberta after a new ad valorem tax took effect this spring.

Provincial Motives

Economists say the provinces’ reluctance to liberalize alcohol trade stems from financial incentives. With major provincial retailers — including Ontario’s LCBO and Quebec’s SAQ — generating substantial revenue, governments remain cautious about introducing competition from out-of-province producers.

Concordia University economist Moshe Lander said the decision reflects a long pattern of carveouts that have built today’s maze of trade barriers. Removing alcohol, he argued, threatens both revenue and local industries tied to tourism and regional branding.

Outlook

Industry leaders maintain that direct-to-consumer progress is possible, though they say political coordination is essential. Economists, however, warn that without unified commitment from all 14 jurisdictions, meaningful reform is unlikely.

“It could happen,” Lander said. “But the political will has to be there among 14 people at the same time.”

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PWHL Season 3 Opens With Expansion and Big Expectations

James
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PWHL Season 3 Opens With Expansion and Big Expectations

The PWHL launches its third season with two new teams, major roster changes, and rising momentum as Vancouver and Seattle make their league debut.

PWHL Season 3 Opens With Expansion and Big Expectations

A New Chapter Begins

The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) officially launches its third season on Friday, marking a major milestone for the fast-growing league. The opener features the reigning Walter Cup champions, the Minnesota Frost, hosting the Toronto Sceptres, while the league’s two newest teams—the Vancouver Goldeneyes and Seattle Torrent—hit the ice later that evening in Vancouver.

Why Expansion Matters Now

This season marks the league’s first major expansion, growing from six to eight teams. The decision follows a strong second season and increasing demand for professional women’s hockey across North America. Vancouver and Seattle were chosen to anchor the West Coast footprint, a strategic move as the PWHL prepares for a potential U.S. broadcast rights deal.
League executives say up to four additional teams may be announced as early as next season, depending on market evaluations already underway.

Where the Action Starts

Opening weekend is packed, with games across three days. Vancouver hosts Seattle in both clubs’ debut matchup Friday night, followed by Ottawa welcoming the New York Sirens on Saturday. Montreal travels to Boston for a Sunday afternoon showdown. Canadian viewers can catch 17 nationally broadcast games this season on CBC and CBC Gem, beginning Nov. 29.

How New Teams Are Building Chemistry

Vancouver and Seattle enter the season with star-studded rosters built through expansion drafts and off-season signings. Vancouver’s core features goaltender Emerance Maschmeyer, defenders Sophie Jaques and Ashton Bell, and offensive leaders Sarah Nurse and Jennifer Gardiner. Seattle counters with an all-Team USA top line of Alex Carpenter, Hilary Knight and Hannah Bilka, supported by one of the league’s toughest blue lines.
Both teams face the challenge of building chemistry quickly after a condensed two-week training camp, but early fan engagement has already surpassed expectations. Vancouver leads the league in season-ticket sales, while Seattle set a new one-day jersey sales record.

Future Markets on the Radar

The league is actively evaluating additional locations, using this season’s “Takeover Tour” as an opportunity to test fan response in 11 cities—including Edmonton, Halifax, Quebec City and Winnipeg. While executives remain tight-lipped about preferred markets, infrastructure and local arenas will play a critical role in determining expansion candidates.

Why Rosters Look Different Everywhere

Significant roster movement followed the expansion draft, with each original team losing four players to Vancouver or Seattle. New York and Montreal underwent the most dramatic transformations, adding young core talent and key veterans.
League leadership insists the changes were intentional to maintain competitive balance, even if fans had to say goodbye to familiar faces.

What an Olympic Season Means

For the first time, the PWHL season pauses for the Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympics, where many league stars will compete for national teams. League officials expect the Olympic spotlight to bring new viewers to the PWHL when play resumes. The break also gives players a chance to showcase themselves for national team selection, adding extra motivation early in the season.

How New Rules Will Shape Play

This year introduces several rule modifications, including the removal of coach’s challenges and a requirement that each team carry three goaltenders. Injured goaltenders will be replaced immediately from the active roster, ensuring uninterrupted play.
The league also appointed Hall of Fame official Bill McCreary to oversee officiating standards, aiming to maintain consistency as the league’s physical style evolves.

A Season Poised for Momentum

With expansion, heightened visibility, and renewed energy across all markets, the PWHL enters its third season with more stability—and more expectations—than ever before. As fans fill arenas from Vancouver to Boston, the league hopes this season will set a new benchmark for women’s professional hockey in North America

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‘MJ’ Musical Brings Michael Jackson Magic to Vancouver

Alex
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‘MJ’ Musical Brings Michael Jackson Magic to Vancouver

The MJ musical brings six days of Michael Jackson’s biggest hits and high-energy performances to Vancouver’s Queen Elizabeth Theatre from Nov. 25–30.

‘MJ’ Musical Brings Michael Jackson Magic to Vancouver

A High-Energy Tribute Arrives

A major Broadway production is set to light up Vancouver as MJ, the musical celebrating Michael Jackson’s iconic catalogue, begins a six-day run at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre from Nov. 25 to 30. The touring show brings eight performances to the city, giving Canadian fans a rare chance to experience the “King of Pop’s” artistry live on stage. The production is part of Broadway Across Canada’s 2025–26 season launch, marking the first major musical to open the lineup.

Inside the Production’s Creative Focus

The musical centres on the making of Jackson’s 1992 Dangerous World Tour, offering audiences a behind-the-scenes look at his creative process and the collaborations that helped shape his sound. While packed with chart-topping hits and signature choreography, the show intentionally avoids delving into the controversies that shadowed Jackson in later years. Producers say the goal is to highlight the music and its lasting cultural impact, presenting a story suitable for viewers aged eight and up.

What Audiences Can Expect Onstage

Each performance runs two hours and 30 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. The production features high-tempo dance numbers, elaborate staging and theatrical effects such as haze, fog and intense strobe lighting. These elements work together to recreate the energy and spectacle of Jackson’s live concerts, staying true to the era that defined his career and global influence.

The Team Behind the Show

Directed and choreographed by Tony Award winner Christopher Wheeldon, with a book by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lynn Nottage, MJ blends world-class choreography with a narrative built around artistic ambition and musical innovation. The musical has earned widespread acclaim on Broadway, prompting an expansive touring schedule that includes Canada as a key stop in its multi-year rollout.

What’s Next for Local Theatre Fans

Broadway Across Canada’s 2025–26 season continues after MJ with a series of major productions. In January, Vancouver audiences will see Moulin Rouge! The Musical, followed by the return of Les Misérables in late March. Spring brings the ABBA-fuelled fan favourite Mamma Mia!, while the mystery-comedy Clue rounds out the season in summer 2026. Season packages start at $305 and are available through BroadwayAcrossCanada.ca.

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