Urbana News

06/09/2024

Red Lobster will exit bankruptcy protection soon, following a judge’s approval of its sale to Fortress-led investors. The chain, which faced numerous closures and losses, will operate about 544 locations post-bankruptcy and has appointed a new CEO, Damola Adamolekun. The deal includes $60 million in new funding to support Red Lobster’s recovery.

Tap on the link to know more

https://urbananews.ca/red-lobster-emerges-from-bankruptcy-protection-after-sale-approval/

06/09/2024

CPA Canada is offering a new $195 annual membership for accountants in Ontario and Quebec as the provinces prepare to split from the national organization. Despite the separation, CPA Canada remains committed to supporting CPAs nationwide, maintaining educational programs, and providing valuable benefits.

Tap on the link to know more

https://urbananews.ca/cpa-canada-offers-new-membership-to-ontario-and-quebec-accountants-amid-split/

06/09/2024

JPMorgan Chase has appointed Andrew Castaldo and Andrew Martin as co-heads of its mid-cap M&A unit, with Martin joining later in 2024. The firm also named Ben Wilson as head of North America EPRM M&A, signalling a strategic shift amidst a recovery in dealmaking and a surge in investment banking fees.

Tap on the link to know more

https://urbananews.ca/jpmorgan-chase-announces-new-leadership-for-mid-cap-ma-division/

06/09/2024

Canada's labour productivity dropped by 0.2% in Q2 2024, following a 0.3% decrease in Q1. This decline, affecting many industries, raises concerns about falling living standards and highlights the need for improved investment in productivity-enhancing sectors.

Tap on the link to know more

https://urbananews.ca/canadian-labour-productivity-falls-for-second-consecutive-quarter/

06/09/2024

Jessica Pegula overcame a slow start to defeat Karolina Muchova 1-6, 6-4, 6-2, earning her spot in the U.S. Open final. After being down a set and a break, Pegula turned the match around and will face Aryna Sabalenka, last year’s runner-up, in the final. Sabalenka won her semifinal against Emma Navarro in straight sets.

Tap on the link to know more

https://urbananews.ca/jessica-pegula-battles-karolina-muchova-to-reach-us-open-final/

06/09/2024

Noah Vucsics, a 24-year-old Canadian long jumper with an intellectual disability, is set to compete in the Paralympic Games in Paris. From being a high school “jumping bean” to winning silver at the 2023 World Para Athletics Championships, Vucsics now aims to be the first Canadian to reach the podium in the T20 long jump.

Tap on the link to know more

https://urbananews.ca/noah-vucsics-poised-for-paralympic-glory-in-t20-long-jump/

05/09/2024

The Bank of Canada has lowered its interest rate to 4.25% to boost growth and control inflation. Governor Tiff Macklem hinted at possible adjustments to future rate cuts based on economic conditions. With inflation easing and unemployment rising, the central bank faces balancing risks. More rate cuts are expected in the coming months as the economy remains uncertain.

Tap on the link to know more

https://urbananews.ca/bank-of-canada-reduces-interest-rate-hints-at-more-cuts/

05/09/2024

A recent Moomoo Financial Canada Inc. survey reveals that Canadian investors are increasingly favouring U.S. tech stocks, driven by confidence in the potential of artificial intelligence. Although tech dominates, defensive sectors like utilities and materials are also popular, reflecting caution about the economy. Despite concerns about a possible recession, many investors remain optimistic about achieving their financial goals.

Tap on the link to know more

https://urbananews.ca/canadian-investors-lean-toward-u-s-tech-stocks-moomoo-survey-shows/

05/09/2024

The U.S. stock market continued its decline on Wednesday, driven by losses in tech, energy, and healthcare sectors. Job openings fell in July, raising concerns about the labour market, while investors anticipate potential Federal Reserve interest rate cuts. Dollar Tree and Hormel Foods both suffered significant stock drops. Economic reports due this week are expected to provide more insight into the market's future trajectory.

Tap on the link to know more

https://urbananews.ca/wall-street-declines-as-tech-and-energy-stocks-slide/

05/09/2024

Tim Louis, a HandyDART co-founder, is standing with workers as their strike in Metro Vancouver demands fair wages and treatment. Negotiations with employer Transdev Canada are set to begin, but the outcome is uncertain. Union President Joe McCann hopes for a better offer after 83% of workers rejected the last contract proposal.

Tap on the link to know more

https://urbananews.ca/handydart-co-founder-supports-workers-in-vancouver-strike/

05/09/2024

The Columbus Blue Jackets are deeply mourning the tragic deaths of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, who were killed by a suspected drunk driver while cycling. The team and the wider hockey community are coming together to support the Gaudreau family and honour their memory.

Tap on the link to know more

https://urbananews.ca/columbus-blue-jackets-mourn-loss-of-johnny-and-matthew-gaudreau/

05/09/2024

Matt Chapman has signed a $151 million, six-year extension with the San Francisco Giants, extending his stay through the 2030 season. The deal includes a $1 million signing bonus and $25 million annual salaries. Chapman, a four-time Gold Glove winner, is currently leading the Giants in key offensive categories and will be a central figure in the team's plans.

Tap on the link to know more

https://urbananews.ca/giants-secure-matt-chapman-with-one-fifty-one-million-six-year-deal/

05/09/2024

"Beetlejuice Beetlejuice," Tim Burton's highly anticipated sequel, is expected to make $100-$110 million in its domestic debut this September. Returning stars Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and Catherine O'Hara join new cast members in a plot that continues the original film's cult legacy. The film has already received a positive early response, with a 79% score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Tap on the link to know more

https://urbananews.ca/beetlejuice-beetlejuice-set-for-hundred-and-ten-million-opening-in-september/

05/09/2024

Blizzard Beach water park at Walt Disney World Resort will reopen on November 4, offering a unique winter-themed experience with warm water and attractions. The Disney Water Parks Seasonal Pass, costing $79 plus tax, includes access to both Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, along with free parking for the year. The park features attractions like the Summit Plummet slide and the "Frozen"-themed Tike’s Peak for kids.

Tap on the link to know more

https://urbananews.ca/disney-worlds-blizzard-beach-water-park-reopens-november-four/

05/09/2024

05/09/2024

Carnival Cruise Line has opened bookings for its 2026-27 cruises from Tampa and Mobile. The Carnival Paradise and Carnival Legend will offer various Caribbean and Bahamian itineraries from Tampa, while the Carnival Spirit will sail from Mobile. These new options include exclusive stops at Celebration Key and Half Moon Cay.

Tap on the link to know more
https://urbananews.ca/carnival-cruise-line-starts-booking-trips-from-tampa-and-mobile/

05/09/2024

Kelly Clarkson dazzled in a denim jumpsuit in NYC and opened up about her weight loss journey, revealing she used medication to manage her health issues. The outing also marked the 22nd anniversary of her American Idol win, a milestone she celebrated with joy and reflection on her career.

Tap on the link to know more
https://urbananews.ca/kelly-clarkson-stuns-in-denim-jumpsuit-flaunts-fit-figure/

05/09/2024

Ice Breakers is launching a new gum called Flavor Shifters, which offers a unique two-flavor experience that changes as you chew. Available in September, it features Wild Berry to Coolmint and Wintergreen to Coolmint flavors. This innovative gum aims to revive interest in the gum market, which has seen declining sales in recent years.

Tap on the link to know more
https://urbananews.ca/ice-breakers-launches-new-gum-that-changes-flavors-while-chewing/

05/09/2024

The death of Hvaldimir, a white beluga whale with suspected ties to Russia, has raised concerns of foul play. Animal rights groups claim he was shot, and investigations are underway. Hvaldimir was famous for his harness and rumors of military training. The whale's death is under investigation by Norwegian authorities and has sparked widespread interest and speculation.

Tap on the link to know more
https://urbananews.ca/animal-rights-groups-say-russian-spy-whale-might-have-been-shot/

05/09/2024

Typhoon Yagi has intensified into a super typhoon with winds of 240 kph, heading toward China’s Hainan Island. Transport services have been suspended, and Hong Kong is preparing for potential disruptions. Earlier, Yagi brought heavy rains to the Philippines, causing 13 deaths.

Tap on the link to know more
https://urbananews.ca/yagi-becomes-a-super-typhoon-threatening-chinas-tropical-region/

05/09/2024

Health Canada has ordered the destruction of old COVID-19 vaccines as new formulations are set for approval in October. Meanwhile, COVID-19 remains active across Canada, with high test positivity rates and significant viral activity in several provinces. The rollout of updated vaccines aims to address the current strains and ensure continued protection.

Tap on the link to know more
https://urbananews.ca/health-canada-directs-provinces-to-discard-old-covid-19-vaccines/

05/09/2024

Google introduces new Android features, including TalkBack audio descriptions, music search in Circle to Search, text-to-speech in Chrome, expanded earthquake alerts, and offline Google Maps for Wear OS. These updates enhance accessibility and safety.

Tap on the link to know more
https://urbananews.ca/google-unveils-5-new-android-features-talkback-music-search-and-more/

05/09/2024

Travis John Branson is facing sentencing for his role in a wildlife trafficking ring that killed over 118 eagles and thousands of other birds. He earned up to $360,000 selling eagle parts illegally, sparking calls for significant prison time.

Tap on the link to know more
https://urbananews.ca/wildlife-trafficking-ring-killed-at-least-one-hundred-eighteen-eagles-say-officials/

05/09/2024

An amateur archaeologist uncovered a rare Pictish ring buried for over 1,000 years at a site in Burghead, Scotland. This intricately designed ring, found during a volunteer dig, offers valuable insights into Pictish history and culture.

Tap on the link to know more
https://urbananews.ca/amateur-archaeologist-finds-ancient-pictish-ring-buried-over-one-thousand-years/

05/09/2024

A small asteroid, 2024 RW1, was discovered on Wednesday by astronomers and safely burned up over the Philippines' coast hours later. It’s the ninth small asteroid detected before impact, showing advancements in early detection. Although these space rocks frequently enter Earth's atmosphere, they pose no danger due to their small size.

Tap on the link to know more
https://urbananews.ca/asteroid-disintegrates-in-earths-atmosphere-above-the-philippines/

04/09/2024

Nvidia's stock plummeted to its lowest level since mid-August, falling 9% and continuing to decline in pre-market trading. This drop follows subpoenas from the DOJ investigating potential antitrust violations. Despite strong earnings and a significant year-to-date increase, Nvidia faces short-term challenges and market uncertainty."

Tap on the link to know more
https://urbananews.ca/nvidia-shares-hit-lowest-point-since-august-after-doj-investigation/

04/09/2024

"The Bank of Canada's interest rate cuts offer relief for those with variable-rate mortgages and a slight improvement in affordability for prospective homebuyers. However, homeowners with ultra-low pandemic-era rates face significant increases upon renewal. Fixed mortgage rates, tied to the bond market, might not change much. The current market presents opportunities for strategic first-time buyers despite high prices."

Tap on the link to know more
https://urbananews.ca/boc-rate-cuts-and-your-mortgage-what-you-should-know/

04/09/2024

Clearview AI, a facial recognition company, has been fined 30.5 million euros ($45.6 million Cdn) by the Netherlands' Data Protection Agency for creating an illegal database of facial images. The DPA accused Clearview of violating the EU's GDPR. Clearview disputes the ruling, claiming it is not subject to European regulations.

Tap on the link to know more
https://urbananews.ca/clearview-ai-fined-forty-five-million-dollar-in-netherlands-for-face-database/

04/09/2024

Calgary has reconfigured its water pumps to manage higher water usage during repairs on a key pipeline, raising the daily target to 485 million litres. However, officials emphasize the need for ongoing water conservation. Five bylaw tickets with $3,000 fines were issued for violations, and residents are urged to continue reducing water consumption to prevent potential shortages.

Tap on the link to know more
https://urbananews.ca/calgary-adjusts-pumps-to-ease-water-strain-issues-bylaw-tickets/

04/09/2024

Ruth Sylvie Morel, Canada’s veteran wheelchair fencer, concluded her Paralympic journey in Paris but remains committed to growing the sport. A mentor to younger athletes, Morel reflects on her career while advocating for better support in Canada. Her influence has shaped the next generation, and she hopes to continue contributing to wheelchair fencing's future success.

Tap on the link to know more
https://urbananews.ca/canadas-sylvie-morel-refuses-to-step-back-from-fencing/