pastries-to-puzzles:-a-full-list-of-items-included-in-trudeau’s-gst-holiday
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Pastries to puzzles: A full list of items included in Trudeau’s GST holiday

ByNational Trending Staff

Csaba Peterdi/Shutterstock As a busy, and costly, holiday season approaches in Canada, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government has introduced temporary cuts to GST and HST. The two-month cut applies to essential items, prepared foods and snacks, restaurant meals (dine-in, takeout, or delivery), children’s clothing and footwear, diapers, toys, Christmas trees, and several other items. If you’re curious about exactly which items are covered, we have a rundown of all of them here. Food and beverages Alcoholic beverages (excluding spirits but including wine, beer, ciders, and spirit coolers up to 7% ABV) Carbonated beverages, non-carbonated fruit juice or fruit-flavoured beverages or products that, when added to water, produce one of these beverages Candies; confectionery classed as candy or goods sold as candies (candy floss, chewing gum, and chocolate); fruits, seeds, nuts or popcorn coated or treated with candy, chocolate, honey, molasses, sugar, syrup, or artificial sweeteners. Chips, crisps, puffs, curls, or sticks (potato chips, corn chips, cheese puffs, potato sticks, bacon crisps, and cheese curls), popcorn, brittle pretzels, and salted nuts or seeds Granola products and snack mixtures that contain cereals, nuts, seeds, dried fruit, or other edible products Ice lollies, juice bars, ice waters, ice cream, ice milk, sherbet, frozen yogurt or frozen pudding, including non-dairy substitutes Fruit bars, rolls or drops or similar fruit-based snack foods Cakes, muffins, pies, pastries, tarts, cookies, doughnuts, brownies, croissants with sweetened filling or coating (note that many bread products, such as bagels, English muffins, croissants, and bread rolls, are already zero-rated) Pudding, including flavoured gelatine, mousse, flavoured whipped dessert product, or any other products similar to pudding Prepared salads, sandwiches, platters of cheese, cold cuts, fruit or vegetables, and other arrangements of prepared food Food or beverages heated for consumption Beverages dispensed at the place where they are sold Food or beverages sold in conjunction with catering services Food or beverages sold at an establishment where all or substantially all of the food or beverages sold are currently excluded from zero-rating (a restaurant, coffee shop, takeout outlet, pub, mobile canteen, lunch counter, or concession stand) Bottled water or unbottled water that is dispensed at a permanent establishment of the supplier. Games and puzzles Jigsaw puzzles, for all ages Video game consoles, controllers or physical game media (a video game cartridge or disc) Children’s toys a product that is designed for use by children under 14 years of age in learning or play and that is: a board game or card game (a strategy board game, playing cards, or a matching/memory card game); a toy that imitates another item (a doll house, a toy car or truck, a toy farm set, or an action figure); a doll, plush toy or soft toy (a teddy bear) a construction toy (building blocks, such as Lego, STEM assembly kits, or plasticine) Children’s clothing, footwear, car seats Children’s clothing: meaning garments (other than garments of a class that are used exclusively in sports or recreational activities, costumes, children’s diapers, or children’s footwear) that are: Designed for babies, including baby bibs, bunting blankets and receiving blankets; Children’s garments up to girls size 16 or boys size 20, according to the national standard applicable to the garments, and if no national standard applies to the children’s garments, girls or boys sizes extra small, small, medium, or large; or, Hosiery or stretchy socks, hats, ties, scarves, belts, suspenders, or mittens and gloves in sizes and styles designed for children or babies. Children’s footwear: meaning footwear (other than stockings, socks or similar footwear or footwear of a class that is used exclusively in sports or recreational activities) that is designed for babies or children and has an insole length of 24.25 centimetres or less. Children’s diapers: meaning a product designed for babies or children, and that is a diaper, a diaper insert or liner, a training pant, or a rubber pant designed for use in conjunction with any of those items. Children’s car seats: meaning a restraint system or booster seat that conforms to the Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Other items on the list Christmas trees or similar decorative trees: natural or artificial Print newspapers: meaning print newspapers containing news, editorials, feature stories, or other information of interest to the general public that are published at regular intervals. They would not include electronic or digital publications. They would also exclude most fliers, inserts, magazines, periodicals, or shoppers Printed books: including a printed book or an update of such a book, an audio recording where 90% or more of it is a spoken reading of a printed book or a bound or unbound printed version of scripture of any religion However, there are restrictions on things like magazines, agendas, blueprints and other items, and you can find those details here.

sick-of-storms?-the-sun-is-forecast-to-shine-on-vancouver-again-soon
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Sick of storms? The sun is forecast to shine on Vancouver again soon

ByAmir Ali

Vancouver and other parts of BC have experienced a seeming parade of storms over the past couple of weeks, but there’s good news in the forecast in the form of the autumn sun. According to the forecast from Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), the sun returns for three consecutive days after another wet weekend and a shower-filled start to next week on Monday. Despite the return of sunshine, temperatures will continue to drop to near freezing by Wednesday next week, with overnight lows as chilly as 1˚C. Over the past couple of weeks, it has been wet and windy across the province, including the recent bomb cyclone that left hundreds of thousands temporarily without power. There are still some gusty conditions in the forecast, as wind speeds could hit 70 km/h on Friday, lowering to highs of 50 km/h on Saturday. Beginning Tuesday, the sun returns as the forecast calls for a mix of sun and cloud with a high of 7˚C. It’s the same for Wednesday and Thursday, just slightly cooler. ECCC Vancouver was hit with another small storm last night, which will mostly taper off today. ECCC also warns that some areas could see flooding. “Minor coastal flooding is possible near low-lying shorelines adjacent to the Strait of Georgia near high tide in the morning. Potential impacts include seawater across low-lying roadways and trails.” You should also note that if you plan to travel on the Coquihalla highway this weekend, including today, you could see a hefty amount of snow on your drive. ECCC has issued a snowfall warning for the Coquihalla Summit between Hope and Merritt. Up to 15 cm of snow is forecast for that area, which ECCC warns could lead to hazardous driving conditions. If you’ve felt a bit cold in Vancouver over the past week without the sun, maybe seeing Calgary’s forecast will make you feel a bit better: ECCC Click here to see the full Vancouver forecast. And if you’re wondering what winter might look like in Vancouver, click here.

the-second-coldest-place-on-earth-today-is-in-canada-and-it’s-bone-chilling
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The second coldest place on Earth today is in Canada and it’s bone-chilling

ByBeth Rochester

Northern Canada is facing some extreme cold this week, and one spot just became the second coldest place on Earth this morning. A new weather report from WX-Now, which tracks the world’s most extreme weather, revealed that none other than the Albertan town of High Level reached a bone-chilling -31ºC in the early hours of the morning. Alberta is no stranger to extreme winter weather. Snowfall warnings are currently in effect for the south of the province, and up to 35 cm of snow is predicted over the weekend. WX-Now Other places in Canada also cracked the top 10 coldest spots on Earth today with some wildly cold temperatures. On the list was Fort Nelson, BC, at -28ºC; Hay River, Northwest Territories, at -25ºC; and Chetwynd Airport, BC, at -24ºC. The only spot in the world to out-cold Canada today was Antarctica, which had a jaw-dropping -37ºC overcast with ice crystals at -51ºC. The full list of the world’s chilliest spots can be found here.

9-common-mistakes-to-avoid-when-storing-firewood
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9 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Storing Firewood

ByKatelyn Squiers

There are few things better than a warm fire on a chilly evening. But your cozy night in or campfire get-together can quickly go up in flames if you haven’t stored your firewood correctly. Using proper storage techniques is vital for creating the perfect fire while also keeping insects away from the party. Here are nine common firewood storage mistakes you should avoid to prevent smoky fires and pest infestations. 1. Leaving Wood Uncovered One of the main priorities of firewood storage is making sure the wood stays dry. Since wood is typically stored outdoors, you should avoid leaving it uncovered. For effective dry storage, your wood stack needs to be in a covered area or underneath a tarp to protect it from rain and snow. Damp wood is harder to ignite, has a shorter burn time with less heat, and produces more smoke, which can dampen your cozy night by the fire. Insects also love to hang out in damp wood, which can leave you with unwanted guests if you bring your wood into the house for an indoor fire. You should only store firewood inside if it has been kiln-dried. Other wood types can contain insects or mold and require further drying outdoors. 2. Storing Near the House It can be tempting to place a wood stack near your house for easy access, but insects and termites are attracted to wood. If your woodpile is close to your house, these pests can easily travel indoors, damage siding, and be a nuisance. Wood storage near your house can also be a fire hazard, as an accidental ignition could quickly burn through your woodpile and extend to your house. Although not as convenient, firewood storage should be several feet away from your home. 3. Storing Near Trees and Other Structures Since storing your woodpile near your house is out of the picture, the next spot you set your eye on might be near a tree, shed, or another structure in your yard. However, this can still lead to issues with air circulation. Your wood stack should stay dry, which means it needs to receive proper ventilation. For this to happen, firewood needs to be out in the open rather than next to something that blocks airflow. A storage spot with airflow will also keep your woodpile out of shady areas during the day, which will give it more time in the sun to keep dry. 4. Storing Directly on the Ground When wood sits directly on the ground, it’s more likely to absorb excess moisture, which will lead to mold, mildew, and decayed wood. Your woodpile is also likely to pick up pests from the soil. Either stack your wood on a concrete surface or set up wooden beams or pallets to elevate the pile off the ground. This will promote proper airflow underneath the wood and help prevent an infestation. 5. Stacking Too Tightly How you stack firewood is just as important as where you store it. A poor stacking technique can restrict airflow, which can cause it to get damp and moldy. While you might want to stack logs close together to maximize space, firewood should be stacked loosely so there are small gaps between each piece. This extra space keeps the pieces dry, which will give you longer burn times and minimize smoke. 6. Stacking Too High Your wood stack should stay within a height of four feet. Anything higher can compromise the stability of the pile, which can be a safety issue. This also ensures that the highest pieces are easy to access. If you have to stretch up to reach logs, you’re more likely to knock things out of place or lose grip on the pieces you’re grabbing. If you don’t have a manufactured wood stacker, consider placing posts on each end of your woodpile to keep it from toppling to one side. 7. Not Stacking at All Although it might make for a quick setup, leaving logs in a disorderly pile is bad for airflow, Even if your wood stack is elevated, it can become damp and grow mold without proper stacking that promotes proper air circulation. One popular method is to lay your wood in straight, horizontal rows, with each layer stacked in the opposite direction of the one below to create a crisscross pattern (think of a Jenga tower). This method is also great for extra stability. 8. Using New Wood First If you always reach for fresh wood pieces instead of fully cycling through your pile, you may be setting yourself up for a meet and greet with a colony of bugs. Infestations tend to happen in wood that’s been sitting for too long, so always use the oldest wood first. While stacking your pile, place the newest wood pieces on the bottom so the older pieces are easier to grab. If you’d like a helpful visual to separate your old and new wood, use a scrap piece of lumber to mark the difference. 9. Applying Pesticides Since bugs are one of the leading concerns of improper firewood storage, you might be tempted to apply pesticides to your wood. However, this can be dangerous and counterproductive. Burning firewood that has been treated with pesticides can release toxic fumes into the air that could be harmful to your health. Plus, you’ll miss out on that wonderfully smoky campfire smell that burning wood

14-houseplants-you-should-never-grow-in-direct-sun
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14 Houseplants You Should Never Grow in Direct Sun

ByLauren Landers

South-facing windows that receive lots of bright light every day are the perfect place for sun-loving houseplants like cacti and succulents, but growing plants that prefer lower light conditions in too much sun can cause sunscald, faded leaf colors, and other issues. Here are 14 houseplants that shouldn’t be grown in direct sun, plus simple workarounds you can use to grow low-light plants in a sunny home. Pothos Jacob Fox Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) are famously forgiving plants, but one thing they won’t tolerate is too much sun. If you keep these plants in a bright window, there’s a good chance they’ll develop sunburn, bleached-out leaves, and other signs of damage. However, you can keep your pothos plants safe by positioning them a few feet away from bright windows or installing sheer curtains to soften the light. African Violets Marty Baldwin African violets (Saintpaulia ionantha) grow best in bright, indirect light; their fuzzy leaves can turn yellow or brown in too much sun. East- or north-facing windows are the best places for these plants, while sunny south-facing windows are likely to cause sunburn, especially in summer when the light is more intense. Peace Lily Blaine Moats Although peace lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii) grows well in low-light homes, it can tolerate brighter spots as long as the light is filtered and indirect. Blazing hot sun can scorch tender peace lily leaves, but it can also cause these moisture-loving plants to dry out quickly. If your peace lily’s uppermost leaves are yellow or faded, it may be receiving too much light. Snake Plant Marty Baldwin Many people keep snake plants (Dracaena trifasciata) in low-light homes, but these plants do best in bright, indirect light. Just be sure to protect any type of snake plant from direct sun. It can cause plant stress, yellowing or browning leaves, and leaf burn. Rubber Plant Rubber plants (Ficus elastica) are prized for their big glossy leaves that come in dark green and variegated shades. However, these plants can be damaged by too much sun, so keep them away from overly bright windows. For best results, provide your rubber plants with about six to eight hours of bright, indirect light daily, and consider adding a supplemental grow light if your plants aren’t receiving enough sun. ZZ Plant Kindra Clineff When it comes to houseplants that grow well in low light, ZZ plants (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) are always at the top of the list. However, intense sun can scorch ZZ plant leaves and cause their rich colors to fade. Sunburn is particularly problematic with these plants because they grow slowly, and it takes a while for them to recover after damage. Cast Iron Plant Named for their nearly indestructible nature, cast iron plants (Aspidistra elatior) were incredibly popular during the Victorian period when they were commonly kept in low-light parlors. Today, these foliage plants are still popular. They grow best in low to medium light. Bright sun can damage their lush green leaves and ruin the look of these classic plants. Nerve Plant Marty Baldwin Nerve plants (Fittonia albivenis) need lots of moisture; they droop dramatically when their soil is dry or the humidity level is low. Keeping these water-lovers in bright windows is certain to cause drooping stems, and it can also make their colorfully veined leaves turn brown and crispy. Growing nerve plants in a terrarium under a grow light or in bright indirect sunlight is the best way to protect their leaves and enhance their growth. Spider Plant Dean Schoeppner Like pothos and cast iron plants, spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum) are prized for their easy-going nature. However, too much sun can bleach their leaves and turn them brown. Bright, indirect light is ideal for spider plants and encourages them to produce flowers and baby spider plants or “spiderettes.” Moth Orchid Matt Clark Moth orchid (Phalaenopsis spp.) is an understory plant that naturally grows in dappled light beneath a canopy of tall trees. Keeping these plants in direct sun causes leaf scorch, and it can also make orchid leaves crack along the centers from low humidity. That’s why it’s always best to keep moth orchids and most other orchid species in bright, indirect light. Calatheas and Marantas Denny Schrock These two closely related plants are famous for their colorful and uniquely patterned leaves. To preserve the look of your calatheas (Calathea spp.) and marantas (Maranta leuconeura), also known as prayer plants, keep them out of bright sun. Intense sun can cause leaf bleaching, while bright indirect light and high humidity keep these tropical plants in tip-top shape. Most Ferns Brie Passano Most ferns grow in relatively shady spots in the wild, and they love consistently moist soil. Although you can find a few indoor ferns that tolerate higher light levels, classics like Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata), staghorn fern (Platycerium bifurcatum), and maidenhair fern (Adiantum pedatum) grow best in bright, indirect sun. Keeping these plants near a humidifier or in a steamy, well-lit bathroom helps them grow even better. Chinese Evergreen Jacob Fox Bright indirect or low light is ideal for Chinese evergreens (Aglaonema commutatum), while higher light levels can cause leaf bleaching, browning, and discoloration. East or west exposures are usually the best choices for Chinese evergreens, but these plants can also be kept in northern exposures as long as they receive enough natural light. Waffle Plant Dean Schoeppner Like nerve plants, waffle plants (Hemigraphis alternata ‘Exotica’) are sensitive to sun

what-does-it-mean-to-be-a-forever-renter?-benefits-(and-drawbacks)-to-consider
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What Does It Mean to Be a Forever Renter? Benefits and Drawbacks to Consider

ByKristine Gill

Today, most talks of real estate center around when and whether renters can purchase their first home. But buying and owning property isn’t the only way to find secure housing and make a smart financial decision. In fact, many renters make intentional decisions not to buy a home.  “One of the most common misconceptions about ‘forever renters,’ especially among homeowners, is that they’re ‘throwing away’ their money on rent or that they’re paying their landlord’s mortgage rather than their own,” says Nick Pisano, a data writer for Clever Real Estate. “In reality, those who choose to rent have often made conscious decisions to embrace the benefits of the lifestyle, such as increased flexibility and lower upkeep requirements, trading the likely financial benefits of homeownership in the future for a more stress-free today.” In fact, sky-high mortgage rates combined with inflated home prices and low inventory make renting the smart choice in many cities.   “A recent analysis by Realtor.com found that it is more affordable to rent than to buy a home in all 50 of the largest U.S. metros,” says Hannah Jones, a senior economic research analyst with Realtor.com. “This means that in today’s market, households stand to save significantly by renting.” Not only does the forever renter enjoy a certain lifestyle, but they can also make smart decisions to set themselves up for long-term savings. Here, we talk to real estate experts about the pros and cons of the lifestyle.  What Is a Forever Renter? It’s common to begin renting as an adult while saving money for your first home purchase. But there’s also a trend in which renters choose to remain renters.  “‘Forever renters’ are those who’ve decided, either as a matter of preference, due to financial issues, or for other reasons, to forgo the idea of ever owning real estate and instead orient their lives toward renting instead,” Pisano says.  Some forever renters choose the lifestyle from the jump, while others have fallen into it after seeing how high the barrier to the housing market has become.  “Someone may choose to be a ‘forever renter’ because they live in a high-priced area in which they are unlikely to ever be able to afford homeownership, or because they enjoy the flexibility renting allows,” Jones says. “Lifestyle and finances are likely the two largest considerations for ‘forever renters’.” Agent Robert E. Elson of Coldwell Banker Warburg says it’s not a bad thing to be a forever renter, even if that means you’re fundamentally opposed to homeownership.   “Many people like this lifestyle because it may give them options homeowners do not have—freedom to move around whenever and wherever they choose, skipping major financial obligations like bearing a mortgage, and not having to worry about home repairs and the maintenance of appliances,” he says. Benefits of Renting Forever Like any type of living arrangement, there are pros and cons. And while it’s easy to come up with the perks around homeownership, there are similar advantages for renters.  Flexibility “What forever renters sacrifice in home equity, they get back in flexibility. Renting for the long term has both pros and cons,” Jones says. “It takes the pressure off of saving up for a housing purchase, it often means being able to afford to live in areas that would be out-of-budget for buying, and it allows renters to pick up and move as they wish, to some degree. Renters also often get to pawn off the maintenance and upkeep responsibilities to the owner, though likely with varying degrees of success.” Many forever renters choose this lifestyle to avoid feeling tied down. “There is a rather pervasive view that renting is ‘throwing away’ money. However, renting allows for flexibility that homeownership does not,” Jones says. “Renters are able to be nimble and adjust to changing life circumstances, such as losing a job or adding a new member to the family, without having to worry about selling/buying a new house.”  That doesn’t mean there aren’t consequences to moving frequently. “Of course, lease terms vary and renters may face the financial consequences of breaking a lease, but generally this cost will be lower than costs associated with selling a home,” Jones adds. “Homeownership can offer peace of mind and stability, but it is much harder to course-correct than it is when renting.” It’s also a great arrangement if you aren’t committed to living in one particular city. “Additionally, not being the actual homeowner likely makes it easier to move and not be tied to a specific location,” says Ann Cooper, a real estate broker with RE/MAX of Boulder. Less Time Spent on Upkeep If you’re someone who travels often or despises yardwork, renting an apartment or a home which the landlord maintains can be ideal.  “Even if you’re not a traveling salesperson, there are reasons to rent for the long term,” says agent Michael C. Weiner of Coldwell Banker Warburg. “Some jobs require a lot of changes—think U.S. military personnel—while some people simply like to have a variety of homes in different locations over time​.” Fewer Expenses And even though homeownership is considered an easy way to build equity and wealth, it’s not always smooth sailing, and that’s where renting can be advantageous. “Financially, people typically assume that it’s better to own than rent,” Weiner says. “But, buying in a hot market can lead to much less gain over time, and expenses of ownership, including taxes

income-needed-to-purchase-a-home-in-canada-drops-in-major-cities
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Income needed to purchase a home in Canada drops in major cities

ByNational Trending Staff

If your home ownership dreams have been put on hold, there may be hope on the horizon as Canada’s falling interest rates are impacting how much income is needed to purchase a property. But depending on where you live, it still requires a hefty paycheque to enter the market. According to a new report from Ratehub.ca, the income needed to afford a home has fallen in 12 of 13 cities across the country. This comes after the Bank of Canada (BoC) announced a massive interest rate cut in October. The BoC dropped the rate by 50 basis points, bringing it from 4.25% to 3.75%, which many referred to as a “jumbo-sized” drop. This was the fourth announcement of 2024, and such a low rate hasn’t been seen since December 2022. According to Ratehub.ca’s Penelope Graham, “affordability conditions have been improving since June, when the Bank of Canada first started cutting its benchmark interest rate, easing mortgage costs and the pricing of other borrowing products.” RateHub Vancouver and Toronto, Canada’s most expensive cities, saw the most significant drops in the income needed to purchase a home between September and October 2024. “While both of these cities saw a robust increase in sales activity in October, they remain well supplied, which has helped keep a lid on price growth,” notes the report. Still, prospective buyers in these cities need to take home significant paycheques to get into the housing market. The income required to purchase the average home in Vancouver now stands at $214,000 annually. In Toronto, it’s slightly lower at $195,420. Moreover, Canada’s smaller cities haven’t experienced the softer prices of their larger counterparts. A drop in supply and an increase in buyer activity have resulted in prices going up, as six out of 13 markets across the country saw month-over-month price hikes. Fredericton was the only market where affordability deteriorated between September and October as home prices increased by $16,100, meaning buyers would need $1,890 more income to purchase an average property. Ratehub.ca provided an optimistic outlook for prospective buyers over the next few months as mortgage rates are expected to drop further. The overnight lending rate is predicted to drop by another 25 basis points, bringing the benchmark interest rate to 3.5%. Rates are expected to drop further in 2025. However, lower rates will likely lead to an uptick in prices as more buyers could enter the market. “The national average home price is expected to end the year largely flat at $683,200 – just a 0.9% increase – before rising 4.4% next year to $713,375,” concluded Ratehub.ca.

another-storm-approaches-vancouver-island-as-crews-finish-restoring-power-to-thousands-–-cbc.ca
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Another storm approaches Vancouver Island as crews finish restoring power to thousands

Bymichael

British Columbia Around 15,000 properties were still without power on Vancouver Island on Thursday evening, as B.C. Hydro crews continued to repair the damage from the recent “bomb cyclone.” Environment Canada is now warning that another storm is approaching southwestern B.C. B.C. Hydro says new storm could hamper cleanup Isaac Phan Nay · CBC News · Posted: Nov 21, 2024 11:02 AM EST | Last Updated: 2 hours ago Waves crash into the breakwater in Victoria on Wednesday as high winds continued to hit Vancouver Island. Winds are expected to pick up again on Friday as another storm nears southwestern B.C. (Chad Hipolito/The Canadian Press) A new storm is approaching Vancouver Island just as residents finish recovering from a “bomb cyclone” that began battering the region late Tuesday. At the peak of the storm, as many as 300,000 B.C. Hydro customers were without power, more than half of them on Vancouver Island, as gusts of wind of up to 170 km/h were recorded just off the island’s north coast, and hurricane-force gusts brought down trees and damaged infrastructure across the B.C. coast. Environment Canada is warning of another storm approaching southwestern British Columbia and issued a fresh round of weather statements for Friday covering Vancouver Island, the Sunshine and Central coasts, and Howe Sound with predicted winds of up to 90 km/h. While less intense than the previous storm, officials say the incoming system still has the potential to cause damage and disruption and slow down cleanup efforts. WATCH | Driver recounts trees falling on vehicle during storm:  Vancouver Island driver suffers scary ordeal after trees fall onto truck during storm Jesse Seniunas had a tree fall on his pickup truck as he was exiting Port Alberni, B.C., on Tuesday. It came after a “bomb cyclone” system brought wind gusts in excess of 150 km/h to the Island. Power still out in some areas By Thursday morning, B.C. Hydro said it had restored power to more than 90 per cent of customers affected, but more than 15,000 were still without power as of 6 p.m. PT with the power provider warning that some areas with “significant damage” may still face another night in the dark. WATCH | ‘Bomb cyclone’ and other weather terms explained:  Does jargon like ‘bomb cyclone’ help or hinder understanding of weather? B.C. is no stranger to extreme weather — from the atmospheric river over the weekend to heat domes. You might have also heard phrases like polar vortex and bomb cyclone being used by the experts. But why and when did we start using these sorts of descriptions — and when did we stop simply calling it “a cold spell?” Our science and climate specialist, Darius Mahdavi, explains what’s going on. B.C. Hydro spokesperson Kevin Aquino-Bravo said storm damage was making it difficult for crews to reach all affected areas. “Crews have been working around the clock to restore power,” he said. “But there is some heavy debris on roads and highways and that definitely impacts our access into certain areas.” Aquino-Bravo said the utility had deployed crews to the north of Vancouver Island ahead of the storm to ensure crews could reach the area before ferries were cancelled. The areas hardest hit by the storm include Nanaimo, Victoria and Qualicum Beach, he said.  Next incoming storm Environment Canada says an area of low pressure will deepen off the coast of Washington state Thursday evening before moving north, causing southeasterly winds to increase through Friday on Vancouver Island and the B.C. coast. Winds are expected to reach a peak Friday afternoon and evening. WATCH | Octopus clings on during bomb cyclone:  Watch an octopus cling to cover during B.C.’s bomb cyclone Footage captured by Ocean Networks Canada at the University of Victoria shows a giant Pacific octopus as it gets knocked around by waves on the morning of Nov. 20 as a ‘bomb cyclone’ hit B.C.’s coast. Oceans Network Canada says the footage was captured at Folger Passage near Bamfield, where instruments measured waves 10 metres high, compared to the usual one metre, and vertical currents three times stronger than normal. The forecaster also issued a wind warning early Thursday for southern Howe Sound and Bowen Island, saying outflow winds will pick up overnight and peak Friday morning with gusts up to 90 km/h.  It says further damage, power outages and falling trees may occur and warns drivers could see dangerous driving conditions on highways due to strong cross winds.  Meanwhile, snowfall warnings were issued in the province’s southeast, where as much as 25 centimetres is expected in the areas around Creston and Fernie by the late Thursday morning. A resident clears snow off their vehicle in Cranbrook, B.C., on Thursday morning. (Corey Bullock/CBC) More snow in the region is expected on Friday and into the weekend, forecasters say. It’s the latest in a string of powerful fall storms, including an atmospheric river weather system in mid-October that caused flash flooding and dumped almost 300 millimetres of rain on parts of the province. Armel Castellan, a warning preparedness meteorologist with Environment Canada, says the series of storms is a product of a sustained upper trough of low-pressure high in the atmosphere. He says that while such a pattern is “pretty typical” at this time of year, it doesn’t always last so long. “We are dealing with an overall upper trough pattern offshore in the last two months, since mid to late September, and so that’s been a persistent stormy pattern if you will,” Castellan said, adding that “sometimes we

surrey-tree-lighting,-coquitlam-lights-and-lots-of-holiday-markets-happening-in-metro-vancouver-this-weekend-–-ctv-news-vancouver
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Surrey tree lighting, Coquitlam lights and lots of holiday markets happening in Metro Vancouver this weekend

Bymichael

Don’t look now, but Christmas is less than five weeks away, and holiday festivities are ramping up across Metro Vancouver. Here are some events to check out this weekend. Surrey’s Tree Lighting Festival and Holiday Market Surrey’s holiday tradition returns for its 14th year this weekend and – like last year – it will be a two-day affair. The free festival will take over Surrey Civic Plaza from noon to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, with the titular lighting of the city’s 60-foot Christmas tree at 6:30 p.m. Surrounding the marquee event will be four stages of live entertainment, a holiday market, amusement rides and light displays. A full schedule of events and lots more information can be found on the Surrey Tree Lighting Festival website.  Lights at Lafarge Coquitlam’s signature winter event also kicks off this weekend with the return of Lights at Lafarge. Metro Vancouver’s largest free outdoor winter lights display features a 1.2-kilometre pathway with more lights and “reimagined elements,” according to the city. The lights will be on from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily beginning Friday night, and this year the display will continue into February. The city is hosting an opening ceremony event with live entertainment and food trucks from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday.  Canyon Lights Another holiday light display kicking off this weekend is Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. From Friday through Jan. 19, visitors to the suspension bridge will find it illuminated from end to end with a changing multicolour display. There will also be live music and other lights displayed throughout the park. Canyon Lights is included with the price of park admission, but tickets must be purchased online in advance and a limited number are available during peak times, according to the attraction.  Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village Head to the Burnaby Village Museum in Deer Lake Park starting Saturday for “Heritage Christmas.” The 10-acre open-air site will be decorated with lights and classic decor, and guests will be treated to seasonal activities and roving entertainers. Admission to Heritage Christmas is free and the festivities run through Jan. 3. However, it is closed on Mondays, as well as on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. More information can be found on the Burnaby Village Museum website.  ‘Soar with Santa’ In Vancouver, this weekend marks the return of “Soar with Santa,” the annual Christmas version of Flyover Canada at Canada Place. From Thursday through Jan. 1, the attraction says it will be celebrating with “special activities and surprises” to get guests into the holiday spirit. Flyover Canada is open daily and tickets can be booked online.  Holiday markets, craft fairs and art sales Numerous holiday markets and craft fairs are scheduled around the region in the coming weeks. Here’s a roundup of some of the ones happening this weekend. Dunbar Holiday Craft Fair : More than 140 local artisans will gather at Dunbar Community Centre in Vancouver from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Tickets are $5 in advance and $7 at the door. Children 12 and under get in free.  North Shore Artists Winter Art Sale : North Shore artists will be selling their work from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at St. Thomas Aquinas Secondary School on West Keith Road in North Vancouver.  Emily Carr Indigenous Winter Market : The Aboriginal Gathering Place on the Emily Carr University campus will host an Indigenous Winter Market as part of the university’s Student Art Sale. The Indigenous market will be open from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, from noon to 8 p.m. Friday and from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday.  Got Craft Holiday Market : Got Craft is hosting its holiday market at the Croatian Cultural Centre in Vancouver from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased online or at the door. 

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GST relief announcement generates mixed reaction in B.C.

ByAmy Judd

While Canadians no doubt welcome the announcement that the federal government is giving most residents a GST break over the holidays, B.C.’s local small business community has concerns about how this will work during the busy season. “Any time the government wants to cut taxes, that’s a good thing,” Dan Kelly, president, CEO and chair of the Board of Governors of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business told Global News. “At the same time, this comes with a whole bunch of administrative complexity and questions and uncertainty that small business owners will be grappling with.” 1:17 Reaction in B.C. to temporary tax break, $250 rebate cheque Kelly said some businesses will have to reprogram their point of sale machines, twice and navigating the list of products that are part of the exemption could be confusing. Story continues below advertisement “We’re already getting questions about which products are in or out,” he added. “And then, of course, there is the administrative process that most small business owners do themselves. They try to adjust their point-of-sale machines to apply or take off taxes, depending on what is in place.” Get daily National news Get the day’s top news, political, economic, and current affairs headlines, delivered to your inbox once a day. On Thursday, the federal government announced it will introduce legislation in Parliament to provide for a two-month GST and HST break for groceries and holiday essentials. If passed, the exemption would last from Dec. 14, 2024 to Feb. 15, 2025. Some of the goods that would qualify include children’s clothing, footwear, diapers, car seats, print newspapers, books, Christmas trees, food or beverages including alcoholic beverages, carbonated beverages, candies, chips, granola products, fruit bars and more. Here is a full list. Trending Now “Will it have a big impact? No, it won’t. Will it have a little impact? Yes, it will,” Ian Tostenston with the BC Restaurant and Food Services Association told Global News. 2:19 Federal government launches multi-billion dollar affordability programs In a statement, Restaurants Canada said it is pleased by the announcement as more than half of restaurants are operating at a loss or just breaking even, up from 12 per cent pre-pandemic. Story continues below advertisement “Today’s announcement restores some much-needed hope to our industry and we are optimistic it will translate to increased spending at local restaurants across the country,” the organization said in a statement. “Today’s announcement by the Prime Minister means that more Canadians will be able to celebrate with loved ones at a restaurant, have lunch with colleagues or treat themselves to a morning pastry on their way to work.” &copy 2024 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.