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01/16/2025

Nearly 50,000 international students in Canada were reported as “no-shows” at universities and colleges last spring, accounting for 7% of those on record, per The Globe and Mail. India had the highest number, with 19,582 absent students, while Burundi saw the highest rate at 49%.

Experts suggest many students skip classes to work jobs, often as a precursor to filing asylum claims. In 2024 alone, nearly 14,000 foreign students applied for asylum.

This revelation comes as Canada tightens immigration policies, restricting open work permits for the spouses of foreign students and workers under new rules starting next week.

01/16/2025

Golden State Warriors star, Steph Curry, was seen enjoying some downtime at a popular downtown Toronto restaurant following the Raptors’ recent game. The basketball legend, known for his stellar performances on the court, took a moment to unwind with friends and fans before heading back to his hotel.

The sighting has fans buzzing on social media, with many sharing pictures of the basketball icon casually mingling with locals. Curry, who was in town for the Warriors' match against the Raptors, continues to garner attention not only for his athletic prowess but also for his laid-back charm off the court.

01/16/2025

The local Ottawa company behind the viral “Canada is not for sale” hat worn by Premier Doug Ford during a key meeting in Ottawa has seen an unexpected surge in orders. The patriotic hat, designed by entrepreneurs Liam Mooney and Emma Cochrane of Jackpine Dynamic Branding, gained widespread attention after Ford wore it to a meeting with Canada’s Prime Minister and other premiers to address Donald Trump’s tariff threat.

The demand has been “totally overwhelming,” with hundreds of orders pouring in from across Canada and internationally. The entrepreneurs, who had just launched the product last week, scrambled to fulfill orders after the premier's staff reached out to acquire hats for Ford. The hats, made in Ottawa, quickly became a symbol of Canadian pride and defiance in the face of U.S. annexation threats.

01/16/2025

A Burlington woman faces more charges and another man has been arrested for allegedly selling fraudulent Taylor Swift concert tickets in Toronto, scamming nearly $70,000 from victims. The woman, using the alias “Denise Blackhawk” on Facebook Marketplace, offered fake tickets for Swift’s Eras Tour at Rogers Centre, leading to 28 victims losing their money.

Denise Tisor was arrested on Nov. 25, initially facing 32 fraud-related charges and is now facing additional charges. David Lloyd Blake, 56, was also arrested, charged with 19 counts of possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000. Both are scheduled to appear in court soon.

01/16/2025

Ontario is bracing for a blast of Arctic air as a polar vortex brings some of the coldest temperatures of the season to the region, including Toronto.

Forecasters are warning that the frigid weather will settle over southern Ontario this week, with daytime highs plunging well below freezing. Toronto residents can expect bone-chilling conditions, with temperatures dipping to the low minus-teens, and even colder wind chill values making it feel closer to -20°C or below during peak cold spells.

The polar vortex, which typically sits over the Arctic, is dipping farther south than usual, funneling icy air into the province. While Toronto may avoid the extreme cold experienced in more northern and rural areas of Ontario, the city will still face bitter conditions, especially overnight.

Residents are advised to bundle up, avoid prolonged exposure to the cold, and check on vulnerable neighbors. This week’s weather is a stark reminder that winter is in full force, so prepare for icy sidewalks and potential impacts on public transit.

01/16/2025

Ontario is exploring the development of a new nuclear power plant at the Ontario Power Generation (OPG) Wesleyville site near Port Hope to meet the province's rising energy demand, expected to increase by 75% by 2050. Energy Minister Stephen Lecce highlighted the site's suitability due to its existing infrastructure and zoning for power generation. The project could contribute $235 billion to Ontario's GDP over 95 years and create 10,500 jobs, including 1,700 in Port Hope.

While no cost estimate has been provided, construction is anticipated to begin in the early to mid-2030s, with operations set for the mid-2040s. OPG will investigate environmental and social impacts in the coming year.

01/16/2025

A report by SecondStreet.org reveals that at least 15,000 Canadians died while waiting for surgery or a diagnostic scan in the fiscal year 2023-24, with the true number likely closer to 28,000 due to missing data from several provinces. The think tank, which has been tracking wait-list deaths since 2018, has recorded 74,677 deaths during this period, spanning urgent procedures like heart surgeries to less critical ones like cataract removals.

Despite high healthcare spending, the report criticizes Canada's healthcare system, suggesting that while taxes are high, the system lags behind better-performing European counterparts. The ongoing issue of extended wait times has led to thousands of Canadians suffering and dying while waiting for treatment.

01/15/2025

Jersey Mike's Subs will open its first downtown Toronto location at Union Station on January 22, 2025, marking a major milestone for Redberry Restaurants. The new spot in the Union Market area is part of a larger expansion plan to open 300 Jersey Mike's locations in the next decade.

To celebrate, Redberry will host a grand opening and fundraiser for Make-A-Wish Canada from January 22-26. Customers can donate $3 to the charity in exchange for a regular sub with a special coupon. The first 500 guests will also receive a Jersey Mike's-branded hockey puck.

Jersey Mike’s is known for fresh-sliced meats and cheeses, served on in-store baked bread with a variety of fresh veggies, and for its signature "Mike’s Way" subs. The new location will operate daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

01/15/2025

Icelandic low-cost carrier Play Airlines will cease operations in Canada on April 22, 2025, ending its nearly two-year run at John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport. Rising costs for planes, jet fuel, and staffing reportedly led to the decision. The airline, known for its budget-friendly fares to Europe with a stop in Reykjavik, Iceland, will continue flights between Europe and Iceland.

Passengers with existing tickets face uncertainty. Air Passenger Rights advocate Gabor Lukacs insists Play Airlines must rebook travelers on other airlines at no extra cost, not just issue refunds.

Play Airlines has not commented, but affected customers should expect notifications soon. Despite this setback, Hamilton airport remains optimistic about its future.

01/15/2025

The U.S. FDA has banned red dye No. 3 in food and ingested drugs, citing cancer links in animals. Manufacturers must comply by January 2027 for food and January 2028 for drugs. Advocacy groups hailed the decision as overdue, aligning the U.S. closer to the EU, which banned the dye in 1994.

Red dye No. 3, used in candies and beverages, will require reformulation, though some brands, like PEEPS and Ferrara, have already phased it out. California banned the dye in 2023, and other states are pursuing similar measures.

The FDA’s decision follows decades of research linking the dye to cancer and behavioral issues in children. Critics argue the U.S. food safety system prioritizes profits over public health. Consumers can avoid red dye No. 3 by checking ingredient labels and opting for unprocessed foods.

01/15/2025

Doug Ford with the subtle (not to subtle) jab.

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01/15/2025

The Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR) payments are being issued today, giving eligible Canadians between $95 and $225 per quarter. Most Ontarians will receive $140 per quarter, up from $122 last year, following an increase in April 2024. A family of four in Ontario can expect $280 quarterly.

The rebate aims to offset costs from the federal carbon pricing program, which includes a fuel charge and industrial emissions pricing. Administered at a federal level in Ontario, 90% of the proceeds are returned to residents.

Eligibility requires being a resident of a CCR-eligible province on the payment month’s first day. Payments are automatically deposited or mailed quarterly in January, April, July, and October. Rural residents receive an additional 20% supplemental rebate.

01/15/2025

The official Moose Knuckles warehouse sale kicks off on Tuesday January 21 and it runs until the 24th at the Terrace in Vaughan (1680 Creditstone Rd). Enjoy discounts up to 70% off on a wide range of women and men’s winter parkas, puffers, jackets, accessories and more. This warehouse sale is brought to you by the Sample Sale Guys. The event is open to the public so plan for it early!

📍 1680 Creditstone Rd, Vaughan
🗓️: Tuesday January 21 to January 24th.

01/15/2025

Donald Trump plans to create an “External Revenue Service” (ERS) to collect tariffs and revenue from foreign sources, including Canada, starting Jan. 20. Trump announced the move to ensure trade partners “pay their fair share,” signaling a shift in U.S.-Canada trade relations. The new agency’s operations and overlap with existing bodies like U.S. Customs remain unclear.

01/15/2025

Starbucks Canada is set to implement new policies starting January 27, reversing its open-door policy that allowed people to freely use its spaces without making a purchase. The updated rules will require individuals to buy something in order to access seating, restrooms, and other in-store amenities.

The company stated that the change aims to strike a balance between providing a welcoming environment for customers and addressing operational challenges faced by staff. The policy update comes after years of debate over how to maintain accessibility while ensuring stores function smoothly.

This move is part of a pilot program being tested in select locations across Canada, with Starbucks monitoring its effectiveness before deciding on a broader rollout.

01/14/2025

Mark Carney, former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor, says Trudeau's resignation boosts the Liberal party’s election chances. Sources confirm Carney will kick off his leadership campaign in Edmonton on Thursday. While Carney didn’t directly confirm he’s running, he hinted at his economic experience and plan for Canada’s challenges.

Regarding the carbon tax, Carney didn’t fully endorse it but highlighted the need to reduce emissions in the oil and gas sector. Conservative Deputy Leader Melissa Lantsman criticized him, calling Carney “the furthest thing from an outsider.”

The next Liberal leader will be chosen on March 9, with a potential election in spring 2025.

01/14/2025

Cineplex is rolling out a deal to bring moviegoers back to the big screen with a special offer that’s hard to resist. Starting Jan. 14 and running every Tuesday until Feb. 11, movie tickets will be just $5, with popcorn also priced at $5. This limited-time promotion offers a fun, affordable way to enjoy a blockbuster or long-awaited film on the big screen without breaking the bank.

01/14/2025

TTC subway passengers should expect a significant disruption on Saturday, January 18, 2025, as a portion of Line 1 from St. Clair to York Mills will be shut down for track work. The closure spans five stations over 6.5 km, and service will be replaced by shuttle buses.

Lawrence Station will be inaccessible due to ongoing work, while the other stations will remain open for fare purchases and surface connections. Service will resume by 8 a.m. on Sunday, January 19.

This marks the first weekend subway closure of 2025, following a year of service disruptions. However, the TTC has announced plans to invest billions in repairs to improve the subway system.

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Thoughts on Justin Trudeau’s response 😭😭 🎥: ashleymariem2 /TT #TorontoCulture - #Toronto #canada

Casa Loma is bringing the holiday magic this season with Christmas at the Castle. Up until January 4th, the historic landmark will be decked out with stunning décor, including a 20-foot tree in the Great Hall and eight beautifully designed trees created by Canadian designers. @casalomatoronto @libertygroup Families can wander through the castle, visit Santa in his workshop until December 24th, and enjoy festive crafts, performances, and cheerful holiday mascots. General admission is $45 per person (kids 3 and under are free). For an extra touch of sparkle, you can upgrade to include Holiday Lights after 5:30 p.m. It’s a chance to experience the season in one of Toronto’s most iconic settings. #ChristmasAtTheCastle #CasaLoma #HolidayMagic #TorontoCulture

So how big can it really get 😭 Sovereign Male is Canada’s largest male wellness clinic, offering treatments like testosterone therapy, body sculpting, and intimate health solutions, addressing men’s often-overlooked wellness needs. @sovereignmale #MensHealth #WellnessClinic #TorontoCulture

Don’t you have to fly to Turkey to get a hair transplant 👀 @torontohairtransplantclinic #TorontoCulture - #toronto #canada #torontohairtransplantclinic #torontohair #hairtransformation #hairtransplant

Is Douggy bluffing here or what 👀 #TorontoCulture - #toronto

Footage of a robbery at a jewelry store at Markville mall in Markham 😭 🎥: @omidbabaee1374 #TorontoCulture - #toronto #canada #theft

Ontario has launched a U.S. ad campaign promoting itself as an "ally to the North" as President-elect Donald Trump prepares for his second term, alongside potential 25% tariffs on Canadian goods. Premier Doug Ford shared the one-minute ad on Monday, showcasing Ontario landmarks and its strong trade ties with the U.S., which include being the top export destination for 17 states and accounting for nearly $500 billion in trade last year. The campaign targets key audiences on Fox News, NFL games, and Washington airports, with plans to expand during the Super Bowl. While the cost remains undisclosed, Ford emphasized the importance of strengthening Ontario-U.S. relations in light of the economic risks posed by proposed tariffs. #TradeRelations #Ontario #USTrade #DougFord #TorontoCulture

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow joined Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland to announce a $1.2 billion federal investment for the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC). Of this, $758 million will fund 55 new subway cars for Line 2, improving transit between Etobicoke and Scarborough. The funding, part of the Canada Public Transit Fund, aims to modernize public transit, reduce congestion, and support Toronto’s growing population. Chow emphasized the importance of partnerships to keep the city moving and affordable. #OliviaChow #TorontoTransit #TTC #PublicTransit #TorontoCulture

Meanwhile in Muskoka yesterday morning 😳😳 🎥: carlyriding1/tt #TorontoCulture - #muskoka #winter #snow #snowfall

What do y’all think of this purchase 😭😭. Muskoka was hit bad with over 30cm of snow this weekend 🎥: @robyn_tayylor/tt #TorontoCulture - #muskoka #snow #snowfall #winter #snowday

It’s officially the start of the Christmas season in Toronto 🎅🏻🎄 🎥: @dylan22002 #TorontoCulture - #toronto #canada

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