Unit 101, 2777 Gladwin Road, Abbotsford BC V2T4V1 Canada info@gladwincrossingdental.ca gladwincrossingdental.ca 604-743-2113 abbotsford . ca/bu i l ding w orksho p
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Looking back, it is hard to believe that during the past 60 or so years Canada has changed so much. This change has been mixed-some positive and some negative. Things were going well for Canada till 10 or 15 years ago. Unfortunately, during the past few years, things haven’t gone well. Some of the reasons for this have been obvious. Our very lenient laws have encouraged a lot of shady characters to take advantage of these lenient laws and get away with their actions. There is a saying that laws are made for law abiding people. Those who are determined to flaunt them will certainly find ways and means to do so. In this regard our immigration policy during the past few years has also contributed considerably to this problem.
The previous government’s rather lax immigration policy encouraged a lot of undesirables to enter Canada. Rather than having a well-regu-
Canada at Crossroads
lated immigration policy, the previous government opened Canada’s doors wide open. This resulted in an influx of immigrants, international students, visitors, temporary foreign workers and refugees etc. This country was unprepared to meet the needs of people entering Canada in large numbers. Our housing, hospitals, schools and infrastructure were inadequate and overwhelmed. This caused serious concerns. The high cost of living, sky high housing prices, unprecedented cost of living, increased crime and related issues became a matter of serious concern. Finally, our decision makers in Ottawa woke up late last year and brought in some much-needed changes to our out-of-control immigration policy. The newly elected government must be commended for taking this issue seriously. Its response to public’s growing concerns has resulted in action to rectify the situation.
PUNJABI PATRIK A STAFF pMjfbI pwiqRkf stfP
To put Canada back on track, all levels of government, particularly the federal one, need to tighten/strengthen our laws. Also, our immigration policy needs to be reflective of our current situation. There should be an effective screening process before a person is issued the documentation to enter Canada. Internally, the government should make every effort in weeding out fraudsters and cheater who are out there to exploit our compassion and hospitality. Our social programs like welfare and pensions also need a major review. In other words, every taxpayer dollar should be spent wisely.
Finally, we should review our policy of helping other nations and review our foreign aid programs. The money thus saved should be used to help Canadians in need. Take for example, our senior citizens. A lot of them have made an excellent contribution in building this country. According to media reports
some of them who are on fixed incomes have a great deal of difficulty in making a decent living. Similarly, there are countless other well deserving and needy Canadians who could benefit from a helping hand. Helping such needy Canadians should be one of our government’s top priorities.
Let us not forget that despite all these problems facing Canadians, this country continues to be one of the best, if not the best, country to live in. We have vast reservoirs of fresh water, clean air, beautiful landscape, abundance of natural resources and a lot more. All we need is our political leadership to have the will and the determination to turn things around and make life more affordable, easy and enjoyable for Canadians.
Balwant Sanghera
(Balwant Sanghera is a retired School Psychologist and Community Activist)
Chief Editor/Publisher : Dr. Andy Sidhu | General Manager : Dave Sidhu | Administration Executive : Ronnie Sidhu muwK aYzItr/ pbilsLr zf aYNzI iswDU jnrl mYnyjr dyv iswDU aYziminstRysLn mYnyjr rOnI iswDU
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2025 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack – The Electric Muscle car Rocks!
Review by Veeno Dewan.
ABBOTSFORD DENTAL CENTRE
Reborn as a high-performance Electric only Coupe— The 2025 Dodge Charger EV looks to the legendary iconic Dodge Charger both old and recent for its inspiration. The sleek aero body hatchback coupe is offered in two-door format. It is a large heavy car and has the right presence and look with its wide stance and sharp angular lines. The 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona model comes in 2 trim levels. Canadian pricing ranges from $54,995 to $80,300 plus Freight and PDI at $2,695.
Do note that a new gasoline 2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack and Charger R/T bring will be arriving. These cars will have a turbocharged inline-sixcylinder engine making 420 or 550 horsepower, depending on trim. Canadian pricing will start from $62,290 for the R/T, or $72,290 for the Scat Pack.
In terms of motivation, for 2025, the Charger Daytona EV model has a fully electric dual-motor All Wheel Drive powertrain with a 100.5-kWh battery pack. The entry level Charger R/T model produces 456 horsepower and 404 lb.-ft of torque. However, it comes
with a standard Direct Connection Stage 1 upgrade kit, which increases power to 496 hp for 15 seconds when the aptly named “Power Shot” feature is activated. Dodge says the Daytona can charge its battery from 20 percent to 80 percent in 24 minutes in optimal conditions.
In the Dodge Daytona Scat Pack specification (As tested) the electric motors are retuned to produce 630 horsepower and 627 lb.-ft of torque. With the standard Stage 2 upgrade kit, the Power Shot function increases maximum output to 670 hp. The Scat Pack trim includes features like Brembo brakes, front sport seats, a 16-inch digital gauge cluster, and a head-up display. The Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust system aims to replicate the sound of a V8 engine, with different tones for each drive mode. The Scat Pack has the new independent four-link suspension set up, and dual-valve adaptive dampers as standard for quicker handling and turning responses.
The Dodge Charger interior is spacious, stylish, and well finished. It is big change from previous Chargers
which had a slight retro vibe, the new EV version has a more stylish, modern, high tech look to it. There are comfortable seats front and rear and plenty of technology, including a large digital dual-display setup for the instrument cluster and infotainment. The UConnect 5 infotainment system is one of the best infotainment systems out there with a big 12.3-inch touchscreen and a wide 16.0-inch digital cluster. The Charger Daytona has programmable Race Options, and a new track recorder offers real-time telemetry and the ability to watch review performance laps later.
The Charger hatchback design offers excellent cargo space with the rear seats folded down. Legroom is good all round and headroom is only slightly compromised in the rear. Standard driver assists and active safety features on the 2025 Charger Daytona include: front automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, blindspot monitoring, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. High spec models gain a blind-spot camera view system activated by the turn signals.
Chargers including the Dodge Hellcat, the contrast in how the Charger EV transmits power and traction to all four wheels is incredibly quicker and more tenacious than in rearwheel-drive Chargers. This is a big heavy car and of course that aids to the planted stability and smoothness. Ramp up the driving and the activate the selectable Drift mode, and you can lock out the front light up the rear tires in typical burnout fashion.
The jury is still out on the Frantzonic V8 imitation engine soundtrack that pumps through external speakers to increase the car’s engagement and street presence.
To sum up, the 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack EV offers impressive performance and a cool retroinspired design, Minor issues include the EV range which could be better,
and the price can be alarmingly high once you spec the car at its top level.
On the road, the Charger Daytona Scat Pack delivers a simply thrilling performance drive. Its dual-motor powertrain produces a massive 670 horsepower in direct linear fashion when the Power Shot mode is operated. The instant torque delivers head snapping acceleration, traction and responsiveness that is on another level. Having driven various Hemi V8 engine performance
The 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack is a wildly performing allelectric muscle car, offering impressive acceleration, excellent handling and a unique stunning looking design. One to be considered if you need a high performance V8 muscle car with an EV’s smooth, instant torque delivery. One to consider.
2025 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack EV. Priced from: $54,995 to $80,300 plus Freight and PDI at $2,695.
More info at: www.dodge.ca.
#100A - 2860 Trethewey St., Abbotsford, V2T 4X5
DGB HOME RENOVATION
We do all types of Renovations
asIN hr qrF dI rYnovysLn krdy hF:
• Laminate • Tiles
• Painting
• Framing
• Drywall Finishing
• Kitchen Cabinets
• Stone Works
• lYmInyt
• pyNitMg
• PRyimMg • tfeIlF
• zrfeIvfl iPinisLMg
• ikcn kYbints
• ston vrk
• Plumbing • plMibMgL
You will get the best quality work at DGB home renovation
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jy quhfzy sfry dMd nhIN inkly pr Kfxf TIk qrHF nhIN Kf huMdf qF blrfj nUM imlo ieh quhfzI syvf leI srI ivwc hn.
Close link between street sweeps, overdose and systemic harm: SFU study
Confiscating personal belongings during government-led dismantling of tent cities in Vancouver inflicts immediate harm and further destabilizes people already struggling to meet their basic needs, according to a new study from Simon Fraser University.
Published in the journal Public Health, the study found nearly one in four people experiencing homelessness reported having their personal belongings confiscated by city workers between 2021 and 2023. These confiscations—often part of street sweeps to remove tent cities—were significantly associated with non-fatal overdoses, violent victimization, and barriers to accessing essential services.
“Our data captures a harmful part of the street sweeps experience, which is confiscation of personal belongings,” says Kanna Hayashi, associate health sciences professor at SFU and St. Paul’s Hospital Chair in Substance Use Research. “These sweeps punish people for surviving in the only ways available to them. It’s a public health crisis that endangers lives amidst the ongoing toxic drug crisis.”
The first large-scale quantitative research in Vancouver to examine the frequency and impact of street sweeps, the study analyzed data from 691 participants who were unstably housed and used drugs.
Its findings validate long-standing concerns raised by community organizations such as Our Streets, P.O.W.E.R. and Stop the Sweeps.
“Our study provides the statistical evidence to back up what community groups have been saying all along: street sweeps are implicated in overdose risk and systemic violence,” says Hayashi.
Among the 94 participants who reported experiencing confiscation in the last six months, 36 per cent had tried but were unable to access housing services, and 27 per cent reported experiencing physical violence from police during the same sixmonth period.
Many lost essential items, including medications and harm reduction supplies.
“If you’re using opioids and your valuable personal items are confiscated, you may be displaced into riskier environments,
and your day-to-day survival will become more challenging. You may use more drugs to cope,” explains Hayashi. “That’s one direct pathway to overdose.”
The study confirms the dangers of displacement and street sweeps that Our Streets and the broader community have been raising the alarm on for years, says Dave Hamm, Our Streets member and researcher-member with P.O.W.E.R.
“We have tried it all: peer reviewed research, reports, a federal housing advocate, consultations and meetings, rallies and marches," Hamm says. “If the government won’t change its violent approach, we need people to keep showing up to support our neighbours, because in the end, we keep each other safe.”
Seizing unhoused people’s personal belongings is a cruel and dangerous practice that raises serious legal concerns, adds Cailtin Shane, staff lawyer at Pivot Legal Society, a non-profit legal advocacy organization in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside.
“Courts in B.C. have long agreed that displacing people who have nowhere else to go violates their life, liberty, and security rights under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms,” Shane says. “To then confiscate people’s personal belongings only compounds those violations and can be a matter of life or death for people who continue to be pushed to the margins.”
The long-term solution to ending street sweeps is to expand dignified housing and harm reduction services, says Hayashi.
In the meantime, the study suggests emergency responses that could reduce immediate harm, including creating accessible storage services for people living outdoors, and providing documentation when belongings are taken so people can retrieve them.
“Street sweeps are a costly, ineffective response to inequitable policies,” says Hayashi. “The street may get cleaned up for one day, but it doesn't last because there is nowhere else for people to go. We need to fix the policies that created this crisis—not criminalize its victims.”
More child care spaces coming to schools throughout B.C.
Families in 12 communities throughout the province are benefiting from 640 new child care spaces on school grounds, expanding access to highquality child care for young children, as well as before- and after-school care.
“As the new school year begins, hundreds of new licensed child care spaces on school grounds will make a real difference for families as they figure out their routines for the new school year,” said Lisa Beare, B.C.’s Minister of Education and Child Care. “These spaces are the result of strong partnerships with school districts. Together, we’re supporting parents’ access to affordable, high-quality child care where and when they need it most – close to home, right at school and in familiar settings.”
More than $23.5 million in ChildCareBC New Spaces funding was provided to school districts to create these new child care spaces. The New Spaces Fund is jointly supported by
provincial investments and federal funding under the 2021-22 to 2025-26 Canada-British Columbia Canadawide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement. British Columbia and the federal government signed an extension to the agreement for 2026-27 until 2030-31.
“Together, we are creating hundreds of new child care spaces in schools across British Columbia,” said Anna Gainey, federal Secretary of State for Children and Youth. “This investment will take hundreds of children off wait lists and save parents thousands of dollars in fees. When children have the best start in life, families thrive and all Canadians benefit.”
Eighteen new centres on school grounds are opening for the return to school or have recently opened, including spaces operated by school district staff. Partnering with school districts is one way the Province is working to create new child care spaces that meet the unique needs of busy families in ur-
ban and rural communities, with one pickup and dropoff location.
“The staff at Surrey schools and child care providers have worked tirelessly to create warm, welcoming and safe environments for children and families throughout our community,” said Gary Tymoschuk, chair, Surrey School District (SD36).
“The investments made by the federal and provincial governments in reliable, affordable child care – close to home and within school communities – will have a profoundly positive impact on Surrey.”
When the new facilities are open, families will benefit from affordable child care fees, through the Province’s
fee-reduction program, which reduces the cost of child care by as much as $900 per child per month. Families that need additional support with the cost of child care may also be eligible for the Affordable Child Care Benefit.
Since 2018, ChildCareBC’s spacecreation programs have helped to fund more than 41,500 new licensed child care spaces in B.C. Of these, 26,200 are open and providing care for families.
Grants offer more creativity opportunities for people
Community Gaming Grants are empowering organizations, artists and cultural workers by strengthening arts and culture programming and services to increase opportunities for people in British Columbia to participate in the arts and culture sector.
This round of Community Gaming Grants funding supports organizations in delivering accessible, communitycentred arts and culture programming that enriches lives, fosters well-being and enhances cultural vitality in the province.
“Community Gaming Grants support programs and services throughout B.C. that contribute to quality of life, respond to local needs and help build vibrant, inclusive communities,” said Anne Kang, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “By supporting the delivery of arts and cultural activities, we are increasing access to experiences that make a positive difference in people’s lives, while also fostering
opportunities to build community connections.”
In 2025, 771 not-for-profit organizations received more than $16.6 million to support the delivery of a range of programs, services and activities related to music, theatre and dance, as well as literary and visual arts.
Examples of grant recipients include:
Coast String Fiddlers Association (Gibsons) to support the delivery of fiddle instruction to a youth ensemble in Gibsons, fostering musical growth and community among young musicians;
The West Coast Book Prize Society (Vernon) to support key initiatives by the B.C and Yukon Book Prizes, aimed at promoting literacy and celebrating local authors; and
Station House Studio and Gallery Society (Williams Lake) to support two programs at the Station House Gallery,
enriching arts education and cultural engagement throughout the region.
“The Community Gaming Grant has been vital to expanding arts education and cultural engagement across the Cariboo-Chilcotin,” said Davana Stafford, executive director, Station House Studio and Gallery Society. “Through this support, we were able to offer free admission to all exhibitions in both our lower and upper galleries as well as hands-on art classes for youth of all ages. These programs nurture creativity, build life skills, inspire and connect people of all ages, and contribute to a thriving local arts community.”
engaged communities, contributing to a thriving, sustainable economy that attracts business investments and boosts job creation.
A strong arts and culture sector supports vibrant, resilient, innovative and
Applications for Community Gaming Grants for the public safety sector are being accepted until Nov. 30, 2025. The Community Gaming Grants program distributes as much as $140 million annually to not-for-profit organizations to support the delivery of ongoing programs that directly benefit communities throughout B.C.
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All Farmers, agriculture businesses and farm workers affected by the 2021 Floods are invited to join us in celebrating the resilience of Sumas Prairie’s agricultural community after the 2021 floods. While challenges remain, this event honours the strength and unity shown in rebuilding.
Farm families are invited for an evening of free food, fun, and connection. Say hello or stay the whole night—admission, refreshments, and activities are all on us!
Please register to reserve spots for you and your family.
AgSafe, through the AgSafe Cares Foundation, offers free mental wellness counselling to farmers in Sumas Prairie and across BC’s agriculture community. Learn more at agsafebc.ca/mental-wellness/ counsellors.
This event is open to anyone in BC agriculture who was impacted by the 2021 floods, including temporary foreign workers.
All ages welcome
No alcohol or outside food/beverages (but don’t worry—free meals from the Greendale Grill are provided
This project was funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia through the Agriculture Workforce Development Initiative. The initiative is delivered by the Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC.
Still Stronger Together! hjy vI iekwTy mËbUq!
Celebrate this resilience and support of those who came together in the aftermath of the 2021 Sumas Prairie oods.
2021 dy sumfs pRyrI hVHF qoN bfad iekwTy hoey lokF dy lckIlypx aqy smrQn df jÈn mnfE.
Join AgSafe BC & AgLife for an evening of free fun on the farm, yummy food, and connecting with other producers!
Èfm dy pRogrfm ivwc aYwgsyP bIsI aqy
aYglfeIP nfl Èfml hovo aqy iewk
muÌq jÈn, suafdI Bojn, aqy hor iksfnF nfl juVn dI KuÈI mfxo!
Saturday September 13th, 2025
4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Greendale Acres/ Chilliwack Corn maze
ÈnIvfr 13 sqMbr, 2025
Èfm 4:00 vjy - rfq
8:00 vjy
gRInzyl eykV/ iclIvYk kron myË
Have Questions?
Contact: Matt Treble
Tel: 250-661-4719
Email: Network@Aglife.ca
kI koeI svfl hn?
sMprk: mYt tRYbl
tYlIÌon: 250-661-4719
eImyl: Network@Aglife.ca
Please register to reserve spots for you and your family. All ages welcome!
No alcohol or outside food or beverages.
ikrpf krky afpxy aqy afpxy
pirvfr leI QfvF irËrv krn leI rijstr kro.
sfrIaF AumrF df svfgq hY!
koeI alkohl jF bfhrI Bojn jF pIx vfly pdfrQ nhIN.
(Food provided by the Greendale Grill) (gRInzyl girwl duafrf pRdfn kIqf igaf Bojn)
pirvfrk anukUl smfgmF dy pUry ÈizAUl leI iewQy jfE: culturedays.ca/en/bc
10-Day Fall Food Festival
Autumn Florals, and Farm Celebrations
The Taste of Abby fall food festival returns for its fourth year, celebrating Abbotsford’s harvest and food culture. Held from September 19th to 28th, the festival launches with an outdoor Night Market followed by ten days of curated and engaging food experiences.
The Night Market kick-starts the festival with live music and seasonal food creations, ciders, beers, and wines by chefs, farmers, brewers, and vintners. Between September 20th - 28th, the festivities continue with events varying from longtable meals, amidst autumn florals and grazing horses, to a ‘Taste the Thrill’ contest where visitors are encouraged to visit local restaurants and to enter to win a skydiving package for two.
“Taste of Abby celebrates what makes our community unique including our agriculture. Harvest season is the perfect time to showcase everything our region has to offer, from the festival to the Fall Flavours Cookbook. What
I love about this event is how authentic and collaborative it feels, adding that small-town charm
that brings everyone together. It is just like a Hallmark movie,” says Clare Seeley, Executive Director of Tourism Abbotsford.
Many local vendors will be at the Night Market, held at Jubilee Park in Historic Downtown Abbotsford. With a nod to the community’s taste of leadership, the Food and Farm Awards, presented by Envision Financial, will begin at 6:00 pm.
Images for publication can be downloaded here and are to be credited to Tourism Abbotsford. To purchase tickets to the Night Market and events, visit the homepage and to receive timely updates, follow Taste of Abby on Facebook, Tik Tok, and Instagram.
About Abbotsford
Abbotsford’s handmade and homegrown experiences highlight where farm
meets table and spirit meets nature. This strong food destination is home to the Semá:th (Sumas) and Màthexwi (Matsqui) First Nations. Abbotsford’s fertile lands, the Sumas and Matsqui Prairies, have sustained life for over 10,000 years and supply many of today’s farmers’ markets and chefs.
Brings An Outdoor Night Market, Movie Night at the Winery, Longtable Meals Among The
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Misl Hoops Brings Community Together at Richmond Oval with 30+ Team Basketball Tournament
Misl Hoops organized an incredible basketball tournament at the Richmond Oval! With 30+ teams and 120 players taking part. The energy and spirit of the event were unmatched. Visitors also enjoyed various community booths, delicious food and an atmosphere full of excitement and unity. Sponsors – Scott Road Insurance, Khalsa Credit Union and realtor Sunny Brar – made this event possible. The tournament was dedicated to the 12 Sikh Misls, who played a
role
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pivotal
during the Khalsa Raj of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, reminding everyone of the rich Sikh History and legacy of resilience.
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mihrf
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Minister’s statement on first tobacco litigation payment
Niki Sharma, Attorney General, has released the following statement in response to British Columbia receiving its first payment as part of the historic litigation against tobacco companies:
“Today marks an important milestone for British Columbians, as the Province begins to receive the $936-million initial payment from the historic $32.5-billion settlement in the lawsuit against tobacco companies. In total, B.C. will receive in excess of $3.6 billion over the next 18 years.
“No amount of money will ever bring back the people we’ve lost to tobaccorelated illnesses, nor will it make up for those lives ruined by addiction. However, this is a welcome step in our mission to see justice delivered to British Columbians. A special thanks to those who have worked tirelessly alongside government over the past three decades to see this monumental achievement through.
“The message this victory sends should be clear to all. We will not stand idly
by while multinational companies engage in deceptive practices that cause widespread harm at significant cost to people. As Attorney General, I am committed to using every tool at my disposal, whether that is legislation, regulation or litigation, to hold bad-faith actors accountable for their actions and ensure that it is them and not taxpayers who pay to fix the damage caused.
“Regardless of any settlements or future payments, our government will
continue to invest in cancer treatment, primary care and treatment research, and to promote smoking cessation for the benefit of all British Columbians.
“Our top priority has always been and will always be keeping British Columbians safe, no matter how large an adversary or how long and difficult a journey we face.”
More than 3,000 new student seats opening in B.C.
As families prepare to send kids back to school in September, new schools and additions are opening in several growing communities, with thousands more spaces under construction throughout British Columbia.
“We’ve been working hard to build and deliver new schools to meet the needs of students now and in the future,” said Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure. “Our historic investments in school infrastructure are already making a meaningful difference for B.C. students, and we look forward to welcoming young learners into even more brand-new classrooms this fall.”
In Langford, one of the province’s fastest-growing cities, the new SĆIȺNEW SṮEȽIṮḴEȽ Elementary school is set to open its doors. This school adds 480 seats for students in kindergarten
through Grade 5 and will help meet long-term enrolment needs.
“Langford is a great place to call home, and I am thrilled to see the new SĆIȺNEW SṮEȽIṮḴEȽ Elementary school opening for students,” said Ravi Parmar, MLA for Langford-Highlands.
“I can’t wait to see the halls filled with laughter, backpacks on the hooks and the start of new memories for the students.”
In Trail, the new Glenmerry Elementary is a full replacement school built at expanded capacity, adding 165 new student seats and increasing total capacity from 270 to 435 seats.
There are also new additions at five K-12 schools:
in Abbotsford, Auguston Traditional Elementary and Margaret Stenerson Elementary are receiving new additions, creating a total of 360 new seats;
in Delta, Ladner Elementary is adding 150 new seats; in Kelowna, Chief Tomat Elementary is adding 165 new seats; and in Richmond, R.C. Talmey Elementary is adding 150 new seats. Students throughout the province will see more space this fall, with Surrey also adding 700 new seats and further expansions planned in Langley to keep up with growing communities.
“Creating the right learning environment is essential to student success,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Education and Child Care. “I’m thrilled to see these investments making a real
difference for students throughout the province, and I look forward to welcoming students back to classes for another great school year.”
Since 2017, the Province has committed more than $6 billion to school capital projects, creating nearly 43,000 new student spaces and more than 39,000 seismically safe seats in B.C. schools. As the province grows, B.C. is working with both school districts and municipalities to provide all students with safe, modern and inspiring places to learn.
Minister’s statement after 2025 meeting of Canadian Council of Fisheries and Aquaculture Ministers
Randene Neill, Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, has released the following statement after the annual meeting of the Canadian Council of Fisheries and Aquaculture Ministers (CCFAM) in Iqaluit, Nunavut, on August 28 and 29, 2025:
“This week, I met with my federal, provincial and territorial counterparts to discuss advancing trade and competitiveness of Canadian fish and seafood products, supporting sustainable growth in fisheries and aquaculture, preventing illegal fishing activities and preventing the spread of alien invasive species.
“A national platform like CCFAM is an important opportunity to work on common issues and priorities collaboratively. It’s my honour to become co-chair for the council in the coming year.
“The fisheries and seafood sector is a significant contributor to Canada’s economy, supporting good jobs for many coastal and First Nations communities. By working together, we can support strong coastal economies, healthy marine ecosystems, community well-being and resilience to climate change.
“In addition to the national discussions, I was able to raise many of British Columbia’s priorities, including support for timely permitting of major projects while ensuring protection of salmon and watersheds, federal financial support for invasive mussel defence, support for wild salmon recovery and renegotiation of the Pacific Salmon Treaty, and clarity on the aquaculture open-net-pen transition plan, including supports for communities and workers.
“CCFAM is the primary engagement forum between federal, provincial and territorial governments addressing fisheries and aquaculture issues
of national importance. Its mandate is to promote co-operation in freshwater and marine fisheries and aquaculture issues and provide a forum to establish and meet common goals. I will keep working with my federal, provincial and territorial colleagues and representatives, and honouring this legacy.
“I look forward to taking on the rotating provincial and territorial co-chair role and to hosting CCFAM ministers and delegates at our 2026 meeting in beautiful British Columbia.”
Resources available to support campus overdose prevention, response
As post-secondary students prepare to head back to class for the fall semester, students and staff are reminded of the resources available to prevent and respond to overdoses on campus.
“Every life lost to the toxic-drug crisis is a profound tragedy for our communities, and I expect all public post-secondary institutions to take steps to protect students,” said Jessie Sunner, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. “That’s why my ministry directed the creation of overdose prevention and response guidelines to enhance and align the strategies of our public post-secondary institutions. The Overdose Prevention and Response Steering Committee is continuing its work to update these guidelines and build on the progress made to improve campus safety.”
To support post-secondary communities in protecting students, the Province has distributed 1,600 nasal naloxone kits to all public post-secondary institutions and First Nations mandated
institutes. Free nasal naloxone is available anonymously in designated cabinets across campuses, student health clinics and residence buildings. These locations are usually near emergency phones or automated external defibrillators, making life-saving medication quick and easy to access in case of an overdose.
This is part of the work of the postsecondary overdose steering committee, which was established to review existing policies, identify gaps and establish leading practices for overdose prevention and response across all public post-secondary institutions.
Over the past year, the steering committee has made progress to keep students, staff and faculty safe from harm. This includes releasing guidelines to help institutions develop their own overdose prevention and response plans. These plans help raise awareness and establish clear protocols for responding to drug-poisoning emergencies. Institutions are also advised to provide
their faculty and security staff with certified training about how to recognize and respond to an overdose.
Post-secondary institutions throughout B.C. have programs and policies in place to support people’s safety and raise awareness of the dangers of substance use and overdose prevention, such as educational outreach, workshops, harm-reduction resources integrated into student orientation, and access to counselling services. The guidelines released in August 2024 help post-secondary institutions adapt their policies to best practices for the sector.
health and wellness services for youth and their families, and Here2Talk, a free, 24/7 mental-health counselling service for post-secondary students.
Students have access to mental-health and addiction services that fit their needs, including the Foundry network, which offers in-person and online
The Province remains committed to combating the toxic-drug crisis on all fronts and is working collaboratively with post-secondary institutions through the steering committee to strengthen efforts to keep students safe on campus. The steering committee continues its work throughout the year, with a focus on updating its guidelines and improving training and communications related to overdose prevention and response.
Using technology to strengthen connections
Communication is integral to our daily lives, and more and more, technology is the starting point. From scheduling appointments to ordering groceries and staying connected with friends and family, many of our daily interactions and activities begin with a phone, tablet or computer.
When it comes to keeping in touch, it’s easy to fall into a routine of emojis, shorthand texts and meme-sharing. However, more meaningful interactions are important for overall wellbeing. Luckily, there are many ways to improve your personal connections with the help of a smartphone.
Schedule video calls. Whether it’s oneon-one or with an extended group of family and friends, seeing each other on the screen in real-time can open up dialogue, offering visual cues and allowing for deeper conversation.
Create designated group chats. Have separate group chats on the go for family, friends and neighbours. This way you can easily send news, updates, ask questions or reach out for help when needed.
Have a family calendar. Keep on top of everyone’s schedules with all events and activities tracked in one place.
This will let household members know about each others’ availability and can also keep extended family in the loop when it comes to school shows, recitals or games.
Shared photo storage. Digital photo sharing platforms allow you to upload, download and view each other's photos, keeping memories shared and stored safely.
With costs of living on the rise, it’s helpful that there are many free platforms available to help you stay connected. But in order to utilize them, a reliable device is needed. For those who need assistance affording a mobile phone, programs like Telus Mobility for Good provide free devices and lowcost rate plans that help thousands of Canadians in need each year.
Tips to make the most of your income
As the rising cost of living affects more Canadians across the country, we’re all looking for ways to stretch every dollar. Here are some tips to make your money go further without sacrificing your quality of life:
Track your spending. It can be hard saving money when you don’t know exactly where it’s going, so start by tracking your spending for a month or two. Do you spend more on takeout than you thought? Cooking more meals at home could be a great way to save. Do you have magazine subscriptions, software licenses, or gym memberships you rarely use Set a quarterly reminder to review recurring payments and cancel anything you haven’t used in at least a month.
Spend intentionally. This means refraining from impulse buys, and making sure all purchases are things you truly need or want. Keep a list of items you’re on the hunt for, whether it’s a new sweater or air fryer, and avoid shopping for things outside of it, even if they’re on sale or trending. If you see something you’re tempted to buy, step away from it for a day or two and only get it if you're still interested.
Focus on your priorities. Everyone has different things that are important to them, whether it’s travelling or a gym membership or saving for retirement or your kids’ education. Once you’ve identified your priorities, use your money for them first. For example, if you’re dreaming of an amazing vaca-
doing free online workout videos from home instead of paying for the gym.
Make a meal planning routine. Food can be one of our biggest expenses, but it doesn’t have to be. With thoughtful meal planning, you can focus on making nutritious, affordable food and avoid wasting items that expire before you can eat them. To make it fun, look up creative recipes online that use whatever produce is in season. You can also use apps to find sales or free or discounted produce.
Look for support. There are more resources out there to help than you think. For example, if you’re finding it hard to afford a reliable mobile
phone connection, you can check out Telus Mobility for Good, a program that offers low-income families and seniors free devices and low-cost rate plan. To date the program has helped over 66,000 people across Canada stay connected to their networks and critical social supports.
How to make technology work for you
Technology offers us so many benefits, from being able to stay in touch with faraway family and friends to having information at our fingertips. But when there’s a divide between who can access the internet and those who can’t, it can hurt our neighbours and communities.
While addressing this divide is complex, when everyone has access to information, education and technology, it can lead to economic growth and improved quality of life for all.
Some solutions that can bridge the digital divide are:
Investing in digital literacy training. Having up-to-date computers and phones is important, but knowing how to use them effectively and safely is essential for people to get the greatest benefit. Digital literacy education can mean teaching young people how to communicate effectively online or showing people how to identify reliable sources of information and so much more.
Expanding local network connectivity. Continued investment in bringing high-speed internet to more communities ensures everyone can participate
fully in the digital economy. Making sure communities across the country have high-speed connections to engage equally with others is a top priority.
Providing low-cost internet access. More equitable access can help make sure no one gets left behind. One program that’s been helping bridge the digital divide since 2017 is the Telus Mobility for Good program, which provides free devices and free or lowcost mobile rate plans to low-income families and seniors, youth leaving government care, government-assisted refugees and Indigenous women at risk
of or surviving violence. To date, the program has empowered over 66,000 participants to access important services, maintain social connections and improve their overall quality of life.
tion this year, consider
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Be cautious about what you bring to an end or the way in which you go about winding something up, especially if you think it will open up more choices. The situation will have to be revisited mid April next year. Other things would have changed by then. It might be wiser to let things take their own course right now.
Something that started off as a small thing when it comes to helping out somebody else that seems to keep on growing would be best dealt with now, especially if it is turning into a habit or interfering with your regular routines. It has probably taught you to take more notice of what is important to you, rather than getting distracted..
New directions involving other people can be smooth running if things are done their way. While there might be a lot in common, their determination might clash with yours. If you have been attempting to come to an agreement, this might need to be left for now and revisited mid April as things will likely have changed by then.
Something is winding up on a personal level perhaps in ways you were not expecting that is generating thought of all sorts of possibilities in the long term. Someone can play a powerful role here. However it is to eventually settle will not become evident until January to April next year. Meanwhile just go with the flow.
You can have success in getting something out of the way that has been on your mind for a while but the energy just hasn’t been there. Not that you will feel overly energised just yet. It is more a realisation that time is running out. You know you will feel a lot better once this is done, especially if others have a good view of it.
Something needs to be put into place once and for all so that you know what needs to be spent rather than other things coming up all the time. Whatever you do now can create changes that may not be fully implemented until next year, between January and April. You need to be straightforward and practical with any discussions.
There can be a willingness to let something go that has been a personal priority but doesn’t fit well with someone else. It will be more important to establish underlying stability in situations involving others. This can be temporary as other opportunities to focus on your wishes will arise next year from January to April. Patience can pay off.
The New Moon this week occurs in your sign providing you with the opportunity to generate changed directions on a personal level. Anything that has not been heading in the direction you had hoped might be better let go right now. Becoming more practical can appeal to you, especially when it comes to stability with finances.
There can be new directions building up in the background that will provide the opportunity to put a stable foundation in place. This is likely tied into the decisions of somebody else and something may need to wind up so they can take the next step. There could be more than one stage of development attached to this as well.
Changes in somebody else’s life may make you realise things are moving on and it will not be the same for you. This is encouraging you to think about what is important to you. It can actually be freeing you up to do so. This is a first stage. New people can come into your life, especially from January to April next year.
It might be time to develop a new attitude when it comes to commitments or obligations in your life, especially if they affect your finances. If you have accepted things without thinking, you could recognise this has to stop. This can only happen when you take the time to analyse what you can realistically manage and follow through.
New possibilities in the long term can begin to feel more probable or realistic. This could leave behind a level of personal doubt or insecurity. This can be tied to you becoming more aware of what has been important for a long time but needs to be modified in some way for the future. The second stage can occur January to April next year.
Feeling disconnected? Tips for staying in touch
Having a strong support system and engaging in social activities is key to our physical and mental well-being. Social connections are especially important as we get older, as they can help lower blood pressure, reduce stress and boost longevity. If you’re a senior looking for more ways to connect with others, check out these tips:
Join an exercise group. Double down on the health benefits of spending time with people by doing it while moving your body. No matter what level of physical activity you’re comfortable with, chances are there’s a class or club near you that’s a great fit. Try a gentle yoga lesson at your community centre or join a pickleball league. Bringing a friend along can help maximize the benefit.
As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes industries worldwide, workers are grappling with uncertainty about their professional futures.
According to a recent report on public perception of AI, one-third of Canadians are concerned about AI replacing their jobs, but many aren’t sure what next steps to take. Get started with a proactive approach to your career by following some key tips:
Build AI literacy. You don’t need to be a computer engineer, but you do need to understand the basics. Start by learning where AI is useful in your field and where it falls short. Familiarize yourself with general terms like large language model, machine learning, and natural language processing so you can engage confidently in workplace conversations and decision-making. Understanding the fundamentals will help you spot opportunities to make
Volunteer your expertise. Many older adults get a real sense of satisfaction and fulfillment in retirement by volunteering in a role or at an organization they’ve always been drawn to. Your local zoo or art museum could be looking for a volunteer tour guide or greeter, or an animal shelter may need someone to help care for resident cats and dogs.
Look into your library’s resources. These days, libraries have a ton of options to help you try new things, meet other people and explore your neighbourhood. Look for a book club or author talk in a subject that interests you. See what free classes the library has, such as learning a new language or creative writing. Ask if they have free passes to check out cultural attractions in your municipality.
Set up virtual hangouts. Do you have friends or family living elsewhere? Keep in touch with them with virtual coffee dates. You can even plan to play a game together online or cook the same meal in your own kitchen and eat together.
If cost is a barrier to staying in touch with loved ones online, programs like
Future-proofing your career
the most of AI, while recognizing its limitations.
Hone your uniquely human skills. AI excels at pattern recognition and data processing but lacks human judgment. Focus on developing critical thinking, emotional intelligence, creativity and strong interpersonal relationships. These capabilities become more valuable as AI takes on some routine tasks, leaving humans to tackle the challenges that require strategic thinking and empathy.
Think critically. AI can be a powerful tool, but it’s not the solution to every problem. Considering factors like who trained the system, what data was used and what might be missing from the data means you’ll be better able to make informed decisions about when and how to use it effectively.
Develop cross-functional skills. Building a resilient career means diversify-
ing your skill set. Combining technical literacy with strong communication abilities, problem-solving, and expertise in your field shows your adaptability and value. For example, being knowledgeable about your industry’s regulatory environment, able to manage projects and confident in using AI tools can make you uniquely versatile.
Telus Mobility for Good can help. It offers free devices and low-cost rate plans to low-income seniors, helping them stay connected to family and friends, social supports and other resources. social supports and other resources.
are finding ways to solve real-world problems with AI by taking an ethical, responsible approach.
Keep learning. Continuous learning is essential in any field. Stay curious about emerging technology and its applications in your field. Pay particular attention to how industry leaders approach the issue. Companies like Telus
Learning from organizations that balance innovation with responsibility will help you develop the framework you need for long-term career success. Find out more at telus.com/responsibleai.
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Why loyalty programs can make a difference when travelling
With the cost of living on the rise, Canadian travellers are getting savvier with how, and where, they spend their vacation funds. One useful, and sometimes overlooked, way to make the most of your holiday is hotel loyalty programs.
They’re not just for frequent travellers—even if you take the occasional trip, you can enjoy useful perks. There’s lots to benefit from, like member rates, room upgrades or early check-in and late check-out. Together, these can help reduce costs and make travel more convenient.
You can get perks that extend outside the hotel. While all programs vary, some are more versatile and let members use their points outside of the hotel space, whether through shopping,
experience or airline rewards. Others let members earn points faster during promotions or through credit card partnerships. Because the details vary depending on the program, travellers should review the terms before joining.
You don’t have to go far to find benefits. Many Canadians are now choosing to travel within the country. Loyalty programs with large domestic footprints, like Choice Hotels’, which has more than 350 hotels across the country, can appeal to travellers looking to earn rewards while staying local. With travel budgets under pressure, loyalty programs can help travellers stretch their dollars further. Most are free to join, making them an easy, lowcommitment option for those looking to add value to their trips.
