Planning to buy a real tree this year? Here are 6 Christmas tree sellers in Colorado SpringsTrump offers a public show of support for Pete Hegseth, his embattled nominee to lead the PentagonWASHINGTON — Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Defense Department, said he had a “wonderful conversation” with Maine Sen. Susan Collins on Wednesday as he pushed to win enough votes for confirmation. He said he will not back down after allegations of excessive drinking and sexual misconduct. Related Articles National Politics | Donald Trump will ring the New York Stock Exchange bell. It’ll be a first for him National Politics | The Trump and Biden teams insist they’re working hand in glove on foreign crises National Politics | ‘You don’t know what’s next.’ International students scramble ahead of Trump inauguration National Politics | Trump is threatening to raise tariffs again. Here’s how China plans to fight back National Politics | Trump won’t be able to save the struggling US beef industry Collins said after the hourlong meeting that she questioned Hegseth about the allegations amid reports of drinking and the revelation that he made a settlement payment after being accused of a sexual assault that he denies. She said she had a “good, substantive” discussion with Hegseth and “covered a wide range of topics,” including sexual assault in the military, Ukraine and NATO. But she said she would wait until a hearing, and notably a background check, to make a decision. “I asked virtually every question under the sun,” Collins told reporters as she left her office after the meeting. “I pressed him both on his position on military issues as well as the allegations against him, so I don’t think there was anything that we did not cover.” The meeting with Collins was closely watched as she is seen as more likely than most of her Republican Senate colleagues to vote against some of Trump’s Cabinet picks. She and Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski, a fellow moderate Republican, did not shy from opposing Trump in his first term when they wanted to do so and sometimes supported President Joe Biden’s nominees for the judicial and executive branches. And Hegseth, an infantry combat veteran and former “Fox & Friends” weekend host, is working to gain as many votes as he can as some senators have expressed concerns about his personal history and lack of management experience. “I’m certainly not going to assume anything about where the senator stands,” Hegseth said as he left Collins’ office. “This is a process that we respect and appreciate. And we hope, in time, overall, when we get through that committee and to the floor that we can earn her support.” Hegseth met with Murkowski on Tuesday. He has also been meeting repeatedly with Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst, a military veteran who has said she is a survivor of sexual assault and has spent time in the Senate working on improving how attacks are reported and prosecuted within the ranks. On Monday, Ernst said after a meeting with him that he had committed to selecting a senior official to prioritize those goals. Republicans will have a 53-49 majority next year, meaning Trump cannot lose more than three votes on any of his nominees. It is so far unclear whether Hegseth will have enough support, but Trump has stepped up his pressure on senators in the last week. “Pete is a WINNER, and there is nothing that can be done to change that!!!” Trump posted on his social media platform last week.
GERMANTOWN, Tenn. , Dec. 2, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc., or MAA (NYSE: MAA), today announced a full quarterly dividend of $1.0625 per outstanding share of its 8.50% Series I Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock. The dividend is payable on December 31, 2024 , to shareholders of record on December 13, 2024 . About MAA MAA is a self-administered real estate investment trust (REIT) and member of the S&P 500. MAA owns or has ownership interest in apartment communities primarily throughout the Southeast, Southwest and Mid-Atlantic regions of the U.S. focused on delivering strong, full-cycle investment performance. For further details, please refer to the "For Investors" page at www.maac.com or contact Investor Relations at investor.relations@maac.com . Forward-Looking Statements Certain matters in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended with respect to our expectations for future periods. Such statements include statements made about the payment of preferred dividends. The ability to meet the payment of preferred dividends in or contemplated by the forward-looking statements could differ materially from the projection due to a number of factors, including a downturn in general economic conditions or the capital markets, changes in interest rates and other items that are difficult to control such as increases in real estate taxes in many of our markets, as well as the other general risks inherent in the apartment and real estate businesses. Reference is hereby made to the filings of Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc. with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, reports on Form 8-K, and its annual report on Form 10-K, particularly including the risk factors contained in the latter filing. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/maa-announces-regular-quarterly-preferred-dividend-302319993.html SOURCE MAASHEIN is launching the ULTIMATE Giftorium experience just in time for the Festive Season
Chipotle is weighing whether to raise its prices to keep up with rising costs for ingredients like avocados, queso and sour cream, according to a report. The Newport Beach, Calif.-based company’s new finance chief, Adam Rymer, told The Wall Street Journal he believes customers would continue to flock to Chipotle despite the “modest” price hikes because the chain would still be a better value option than its rivals. Chipotle has not yet decided when the price hikes would take effect, or how large the hikes would be, Rymer told the Journal. Chipotle did not immediately respond to a request for comment. While fast-food giants like McDonald’s, which in July posted its first sales drop since 2020 , have suffered as customers turn away from high prices, Chipotle has continued to shine. Same-store sales grew 6% in the three months ended Sept. 30 compared to the same period last year. Revenue rose 13% to $2.8 billion from the year before. Rymer, who said he is focused on maintaining Chipotle’s focus on value, became the chief finance officer in October three months ahead of schedule after Chipotle’s then-CEO Brian Niccol’s sudden departure to lead Starbucks . Rymer has worked in various roles, including vice president of finance, at Chipotle over the past 15 years. The potential raised prices would not be the first hikes to hit Chipotle’s menus. The Mexican chain’s prices have shot up six times since 2021 – the latest taking effect in April through the company’s California restaurants after Gov. Gavin Newsom raised the minimum wage to $20 an hour for fast-food workers. But Chipotle’s price changes are lagging competitors’ price hikes, keeping its restaurants a relatively affordable option. Moving forward, Rymer is eager to boost traffic and sales by cutting down wait times for customers to receive their orders. To do so, Chipotle is taking the technological route – using robotic systems like the “Autocado” to swiftly cut, core and peel avocados. The company also expects to implement produce slicers across all of its locations by next summer to cut down on time spent dicing peppers and onions, Rymer said.
The SNP seems to be rediscovering its political confidence after the bleakest period the party's had since winning power at Holyrood. In the last couple of years its independence strategy has hit a brick wall, the party has tied itself in knots over gender reform, and it has fallen in and out of love with the Scottish Greens. There have been three first ministers during that period and one of those remains under police investigation as the Branchform inquiry into SNP finances drags on. The party's worries have not gone away. Far from it. It still has huge challenges to overcome, not least significant underperformance in key public services like the NHS. Even its selection process for the Holyrood election could be a source of bitter infighting. Yet at the end of the week in which First Minister John Swinney's government delivered its draft Scottish Budget, his team seems more optimistic than at any time for at least two years. That may seem odd given the SNP completely lost control of the narrative in Scottish politics and was comprehensively defeated by Labour at the general election in July. There has been an understandable tendency to write the party off. For a while it has felt that Labour was on course to defeat the SNP at the next Holyrood election and to regain devolved power after 19 years in opposition. The most recent opinion polling raises questions about that analysis. Labour's "change" mantra at the general election seemed to tap into a public appetite for exactly that and it remains perfectly possible they could win. The point is that a change of government at Holyrood is not inevitable. The SNP will put up a fight and it remains a political force to be reckoned with. The budget setting process is a good demonstration of how wily they can be. At the end of October, the UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves helped put Labour on the front foot in Scotland by announcing a substantial uplift in funding for the SNP government this year and next. As I said at the time , this opened up political space for Labour to turn the focus on the delivery of better public services in Scotland (under SNP administration since 2007). With the publication of the draft Scottish Budget this week, the SNP has managed to seize back some of the political initiative. It has happily banked the £1.5bn extra spending from the UK Treasury this year and the £3.4bn extra next year. Much of this is gobbled up paying growing NHS, social welfare and public sector wage bills. However, the SNP has managed to direct some of that cash to policy priorities that pile political pressure on Labour. The Scottish government has promised to partly reverse cuts to winter fuel payments for older people not in receipt of pension credit. These cuts were initiated by the UK government and are being matched by the Scottish government this winter before a new payment is brought in next year. It has also promised to end the two-child cap on access to benefits in Scotland, something that Scottish Labour has previously expressed a desire to achieve. It is clear this policy was a very late addition to the budget statement. It has not yet been fully costed. The Scottish Fiscal Commission's rough estimate is £150m in the first year and it has described the policy as a "fiscal risk". Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar initially dismissed the SNP's idea as a "policy without a penny" because the first tranche of payments are not in the budget for 2025/26. SNP ministers are proposing to make the change from spring 2026, just before the Holyrood election. However, they insist there is £3m in their budget plans to make the necessary preparations. They have also formally requested assistance from the UK Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to access the data required to establish who would be eligible for extra cash. They may also need the UK government to tweak the law so that anything extra paid out in Scotland is not simply clawed back by another part of the system. The DWP has said it will "engage constructively with the Scottish government where necessary" - which may or may not be an expression of willingness to assist. On Thursday, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said ending the two child cap was not a "silver bullet" for tackling child poverty and that the policy could not be afforded across the UK. On Friday, he held private talks with John Swinney in Edinburgh, after which Mr Swinney said the PM had agreed to work with him on the two-child cap. Having reset the relationship with the devolved governments since taking power at Westminster, Labour's commitment to partnership politics is now being tested by the SNP. At Holyrood, Scottish Labour also has a Budget dilemma. It is perfectly entitled to criticise the SNP's approach to taxation and public spending. The question is: Can Labour afford not to back a Scottish Budget that includes winter fuel cash for pensioners and a pathway to ending the two-child cap? The SNP is not counting on their votes but if it does not get them, it will never tire of reminding voters of what Labour chose not to support. In that sense, this is a politically savvy budget from John Swinney's administration. It also includes policy suggestions from the Greens, the Liberal Democrats and the Alba party, which are more likely allies. There is no expectation of Conservative support. They are firmly opposed to the SNP's approach to taxation, which requires higher earners to pay more than they would in England to raise extra funds for public spending. All parties know there needs to be a budget deal before key votes in February. Otherwise there could be chaos in disbursing public money to pay bills and deliver promised wage increases to public servants. It's not clear any party would want to risk being held responsible for that - or the possibility of an early Holyrood election.
None
A Republican president-elect pledges support for expansive tariffs as a means of protecting U.S. businesses and hamstringing global competitors. That description may conjure up former President Donald Trump, but it also applies to Herbert Hoover, who led the country nearly a century ago during the onset of the Great Depression. Within months of the stock market crash, Hoover signed into law the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act, a 1930 measure that increased tariffs for a broad swathe of imported goods. In response, several countries imposed retaliatory tariffs and trade plummeted. Many economists view the measure as a factor that exacerbated the nation's economic downturn. "A whole generation of Republicans and Democrats after World War II was very much conditioned against tariff hikes because of the experience of the 1930s. Now we have a new generation of leaders who are much more willing to pull the trigger on higher tariffs," Douglas Irwin, a professor of economics at Dartmouth College and author of "Peddling Protectionism: Smoot-Hawley and the Great Depression," told ABC News. MORE: Trump's proposed tariffs would raise prices for these products, experts say Here's what to know about the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act, its economic impact, and what its legacy means for tariffs promised by Trump, according to experts. What is the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act? The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act arrived at a moment of economic crisis. As the stock market wobbled and financial panic took hold, Congress negotiated a set of tariff increases that initially aimed to protect U.S. farmers from foreign competition but ultimately extended to a wide range of manufactured goods. The measure is named after its key supporters in Congress: Republican Sen. Reed Smoot of Utah and Republican Rep. Willis Hawley of Oregon. It passed the Senate by a narrow margin of 44 to 42, and sailed through the House of Representatives by a vote of 264 to 147. Hoover signed Smoot-Hawley into law in June 1930. For products already facing tariffs, the law, on average, raised the import tax from 40% to nearly 60%, making for an increase of roughly 20 percentage points, Kris Mitchener, a professor of economics at Santa Clara University who studies Smoot-Hawley, told ABC News. It also significantly expanded the number of goods subject to a tariff, he added. "It culminated in a more or less complete rewrite of the tariff schedule," Mitchener said, referring to the nation's tariff code. What happened after Smoot-Hawley took effect, and did it cause the Great Depression? The Smoot-Hawley tariffs set off a near-immediate trade war, in which several foreign nations responded to tariffs by slapping U.S. imports with taxes of their own. For instance, Canada placed tariffs on 16 products that accounted for roughly a third of U.S. exports, according to a working paper co-authored by Mitchener in 2021. France and Spain both slapped taxes on imported American automobiles, a major U.S. industry. "America's trade partners responded by targeting U.S. exports," Mitchener said. "The most important declines were in the products that were targeted." As a result, trading partners suffered reduced output, but so did the United States, Michener said. The trade slowdown weakened the economy and exacerbated the nation's economic downturn, experts said. However, the Great Depression had taken hold before the effects of Smoot-Hawley, ruling it out as a cause of the crisis, they added. "Smoot-Hawley impacted the U.S. economy at a vulnerable moment," Irwin said. What could the legacy of Smoot-Hawley mean for Trump's tariff proposals? Smoot-Hawley cast a shadow over tariff policy for decades, Irwin said. "It gave tariffs a bad name," he added. For decades, prominent members of both major parties focused on the risks posed by tariffs, occasionally citing Smoot-Hawley, Irwin said. "The Smoot-Hawley tariff ignited an international trade war and helped sink our country into the Great Depression," then-president Ronald Reagan said during a radio address in 1986. MORE: What have past Republican presidents said about tariffs? The measure also played a key role in shifting tariff authority from Congress toward the executive branch, since lawmakers sought a speedy way to roll back the tariffs, experts said. In 1934, the Reciprocal Tariffs Act gave the president the power to increase or reduce tariff levels by up to 50%. A series of subsequent laws helped shift additional tariff authority to the president. "Now, Congress doesn't have much to do with setting tariffs," Irwin said. On the campaign trail, Trump said he could enact tariffs without support from Congress. He is largely accurate in his description of the wide latitude enjoyed by the president in setting and implementing some tariffs, experts previously told ABC News. "Trump is using the delegated powers to pass tariffs," Irwin said. "That's completing the circle of Smoot-Hawley in some sense."
By Lisa Curry Everyone is feeling the pinch these days — charities, postal workers and the communities we serve. At Megaphone, instead of succumbing to division — a tactic often used to weaken collective power — we are choosing solidarity. Regardless of personal opinions about the current postal strike or its outcome, we are grateful that unions continue to exist to champion workers’ rights, despite their imperfections and decades of systemic efforts to dismantle them. At Megaphone, we believe everyone deserves safe, meaningful and dignified work. Contrary to prevalent narratives around poverty and its related challenges, we know that people want to work. Humans are inherently social beings, driven to contribute and connect with their communities. Despite this, societal messaging often paints a harmful picture, claiming that certain people don’t want to work or contribute. The truth is more complex. Many folks face barriers that make participation in traditional workplace environments difficult, if not impossible. People with disabilities, mental health challenges, or issues with executive functioning — such as memory, planning or focus — are often excluded by economic ideologies that value efficiency over accessibility. These systems, built on a “survival of the fittest” ethos, leave little room for those who don’t fit the mold. Through our programs, we provide accessible, meaningful opportunities for self-determined work. Our Vendor Mentorship Program exemplifies this commitment. For those unfamiliar, our Vendor Program is open to anyone, no questions asked, allowing vendors to work when and wherever it is best for them. That said, selling Megaphone products on the streets of Vancouver is no easy task. We live in an increasingly isolated and even hostile society, and many of our vendors face significant barriers to connecting with the larger community. Our Vendor Mentorship Program, launched in May of 2023, bridges this gap by offering new vendors three paid mentorship sessions with a veteran vendor. These sessions provide essential skills, peer support and a small cash boost to help new vendors start buying products to sell on their own It’s been a hugely successful endeavour, and in September, this program won an international award for “Best Vendor Support” at the International Network of Street Papers conference in Liverpool, England. As such, our current annual Winter Campaign is fundraising for this specific program, which is essential to our operations. However, the current postal strike has put us in a precarious position, with our mailouts ready to go... but grounded as the dispute drags on. So our team of staff, board members and volunteers are hitting the streets in December to deliver fundraising packages on foot across Vancouver, North Vancouver and Burnaby. If you like what we do, please watch for these envelopes, or consider making a donation online at . We also now accept gifts of securities.And don’t forget to buy your 2025 Hope in Shadows calendar — while quantities last! The two sheets of vendor-designed wrapping paper you will find in this issue of the magazine are the perfect fit for wrapping up the calendars, so your gift-giving is covered! Our vendors are out in full force throughout Vancouver, but if you have trouble finding one, give us a call at 604-255-9701, ext. 137.
Is Murdering Healthcare CEOs Justified?AU President Jonathan Alger and Mr. Astin will celebrate the Class of 2024 on Dec. 15 WASHINGTON , Dec. 2, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- American University is proud to present Sean Astin --fondly known to many as Mikey Walsh in The Goonies, Samwise Gamgee in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, Rudy Ruettiger in the sports classic Rudy, and Bob Newby in the Netflix's hit series Stranger Things--as the keynote speaker for fall commencement. Astin is also a recent graduate of the School of Public Affairs, earning his master's degree in public administration and policy. During the ceremonies, Astin will be awarded an honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters. Though many are familiar with his onscreen work, Astin is also known for his stewardship and leadership with his union, SAG-AFTRA. Serving on the National and Los Angeles Local Boards as well as on many committees, such as the Executive, Strike Preparedness, Government Affairs and Public Policy, and Government Rules. Astin served on the 2023 TV/Theatrical Negotiating Committee, which oversaw the historic 118-day summer strike, —one of the longest labor outages in Hollywood history, which resulted in $1 billion in gains for SAG-AFTRA and new protections around AI technology. The native Angeleno also served under six cabinet secretaries in two presidential administrations as a civilian aide to the Secretary of the Army. Astin was appointed to serve as a nonpartisan on the President's Council on Service and Civic Participation. "Through his longtime career as an actor, his civic engagement, and his work as a mental health advocate, Sean Astin exemplifies what it means to be a lifelong learner and community-builder, which are both important parts of what we do and who we are at American University ," said AU President Jonathan Alger . "And, as an Eagle himself, Sean will inspire our graduates with his journey and his continued quest to build change in our world." Astin regularly speaks to universities, corporations, and nonprofit organizations on various subjects, including leadership, acting, and with a special emphasis on mental health. His dedication to advancing the conversation around mental health continues the legacy of the late Patty Duke , who was a champion for those who are impacted. "I have always had a passion for public policy and administration. Completing my degree at American University this year is the realization of a lifelong dream. At this moment in the history of our country, nothing is more important than affirming the value of the skill, talent, and dedication of our civil servants," Astin said. "Starting during COVID, the American University online program was an incredible guide. From the curriculum to my cohort, my academic journey was rigorous and fulfilling. I am thrilled at the opportunity to be delivering this year's commencement address. I believe that my mission is to offer praise and appreciation for everyone's accomplishments and to share some thoughts on our path forward." Sean Astin and President Alger will celebrate approximately 1,475 graduates, who will receive their degrees from all eight of AU's schools during ceremonies at 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. in Bender Arena on the AU campus. Students will also hear from fellow graduates at each of the ceremonies: This is American University's 148 th commencement. Sean Astin joins other notable American University fall commencement speakers such as Abby Phillip , CNN senior political correspondent and anchor of NewsNight , Andrea Mitchell , host of MSNBC's Andrea Mitchell Reports , and recently Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy . ABOUT AMERICAN UNIVERSITY : American University leverages the power and purpose of scholarship, learning, and community to impact our changing world. AU's faculty, students, staff, and alumni are changemakers who shape the future from sustainability to social justice to the sciences. Building on our 130-year history of education and research in the public interest, we say "Challenge Accepted " to addressing the world's pressing issues. Our Change Can't Wait comprehensive campaign creates transformative educational opportunities, advances research with impact, and builds stronger communities. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/american-university-to-welcome-recent-graduate-sean-astin-spampap-24-as-commencement-speaker-for-fall-commencement-302320024.html SOURCE American University
Prime Minister appoints Bernadette McIntyre as new Saskatchewan lieutenant-governor.Firms commit over $50M investment The Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) says it has recorded significant achievements in its drive to position Nigeria as a leading investment destination in Africa. Through strategic partnerships and targeted investment promotion efforts, the commission said that global firms have committed over $50 million to projects in key sectors of the Nigerian economy. One of the outcomes is the partnership with Afreximbank to attract investments by leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the bank’s financing opportunities. The collaboration, according to the commission, aims to channel investments into agriculture, manufacturing, ICT, healthcare, and renewable energy. Shettima Barma, deputy director and head of the Investment Promotion Department, speaking during a media engagement in Abuja, said that global firms have shown strong interest in Nigeria’s investment opportunities. Among the key commitments are IDEMIA, a French smart identity solutions company, committing $50 million to deploy biometric identification systems for international passports, national ID cards, and voter registration. He noted that Woodcross Resources, a Ugandan-based mining company, is planning a 150-200 metric ton tin mining refinery in Nigeria in partnership with New Frontier Development and Protex Healthcare Ltd, a Belgian firm, establishing a burn and dialysis center in Abuja, valued at over N300 million. As part of its outreach efforts, he stated that the NIPC has profiled over 50 credible projects using its Investment Opportunity Profiling (IOP) form, more than 100 Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects were sourced, with 34 curated into a Deal Book disseminated at international business and investment forums. Barma also said that the NIPC has profiled 15 industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, renewable energy, ICT, and creative industries, into comprehensive factsheets to guide investors. He noted that in collaboration with the EU, GIZ, and the Ministry of Power, the commission launched the One Stop Investment Platform for Renewable Energy, a resource hub designed to attract investments in sustainable energy projects. “A French company, IDEMIA smart identity company has emphasized strong commitment investing in Nigeria to deploy a biometric identification system for international passport, national ID card, voter registration etc. This investment is within the range of $50m. “Woodcross Resources, a Ugandan-based mining company has indicated willingness to setup a 150- 200MTS Tin Mining Refinery in Nigeria. The company visited NIPC with their Nigerian Partner New Frontier Development; “A Belgian company, Protex Healthcare Ltd, is setting up a burn and dialysis center worth over N300m. Land has already been acquired in Abuja; “Established an African Invest Platform with a Japanese company for investor matchmaking. First round of meeting was held with NACCIMA and MAN; “Signed an agreement with Afreximbank to attract investments into Nigeria leveraging on AfCFTA and the financing sources from the Bank. Organizing a webinar last week in February 2025. Facilitating meetings with Brazilian firms to export fertilizer and poultry from Nigeria “Nigeria may not be the leading investment destination globally, but in Africa, we stand out due to our population, raw materials, attractive incentives, and skilled workforce,” he said Aisha Rimi, executive secretary/CEO of NIPC, said looking ahead, the commission is pivoting towards innovation and sustainability as key drivers of economic growth. Rimi said that the commission plans to attract investments in sectors like fintech, agri-tech, and renewable energy, with incentives to encourage technology-driven businesses to establish operations in Nigeria. She stated further that the NIPC will collaborate with investment bodies focused on green initiatives to attract socially responsible investors. “We aim to position Nigeria as a hub for innovation and technology investments, while also prioritizing eco-friendly projects that align with global sustainability goals. We are laying the groundwork for Nigeria to emerge as a global leader in technology and sustainability investments,” Rimi explained. The NIPC boss also said that the commission is committed to strengthening human capital as part of its long-term strategy. According to her, through partnerships with international donor agencies, the commission has launched capacity-building programs for local entrepreneurs, equipping them with skills to compete on both national and global stages. To retain existing investors, Rimi said that the commission has strengthened its investor relations strategy. Through regular feedback mechanisms and the Nigerian Investment Certification Programme for States (NICPS), “NIPC has partnered with state governments to create investor-friendly environments tailored to their unique competitive advantages.”
Aci Worldwide CTO Kuruvilla Abraham sells $300,834 in stockSaturday’s Argyle BIA Santa Claus parade has been cancelled because of the weather. It would have been the event's 10th anniversary. Organizers say the recent winter storm filled the parade's staging area with snow and there are concerns over snow banks making it difficult for spectators. “Unfortunately, we did have to cancel this year. It's just due to the massive amounts of snow that we've accumulated the last few days. It's not even so much the roads, but it is the sidewalks are so full. We're worried about people being able to even just see the parade,” said Argyle BIA Communications and Creative Director Leah Thomas. “The London Knights, they were always going to come out to the parade, and they were doing a meet and greet at Warehouse Guys after the parade. So now they're just going to go straight to Warehouse Guys [at] 11 a.m., Santa will be stopping by there. If you aren’t able to attend, Argyle BIA has a few other opportunities to meet Santa this month. “We have two Santa socials; one is an open invitation to the community at East Lions Community Center. We’ll have a swim, Christmas activities, and Santa will be there as well with his elf and Mrs. Claus. And we also have a private Santa social for those interested, just go to ArgyleBIA.com ,” said Argyle BIA Executive Director Bethany Mejia. Shopping Trends The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop. Read about us. Editor's Picks Our Guide To The Most Giftable Toys In 2024 17 Sweet Treats And Snacks That Make Great Stocking Stuffers The Best Gift Ideas From Canadian Brands For Everyone On Your List Home Our Guide To The Best Sectional Sofas You Can Get In Canada Our Guide To The Best Electric Snow Shovels In Canada In 2024 (And Where To Get Them) Our Guide To The Best Hydroponic Gardens In Canada In 2024 (And Where To Get Them) Gifts 20 Of The Best Gifts Worth Splurging On In 2024 Mary Berg's Favourite Kitchen Products To Gift This Holiday Season The Best Gifts to Give Your Dad in 2024 Beauty Our Guide To The Best Self Tanners You Can Get In Canada 20 Anti-Aging Skincare Products That Reviewers Can’t Stop Talking About 12 Budget-Friendly Makeup Brushes And Tools Worth Adding To Your Kit Deals Black Friday May Be Over, But You Can Still Take Advantage Of These Amazing Sales On Amazon Canada It's Officially Travel Tuesday: Here Are The Best Deals On Flights, Hotels, And Vacations The Waterpik Advanced Water Flosser Will Make Cleaning Your Teeth So Much Easier — And It's 40% Off For Cyber Monday London Top Stories SIU: driver that fled OPP traffic stop in Arva fatally injured Although the snow is tapering off, some roads are still closed or not cleaned yet Pedestrian struck by impaired driver in London's west end Threatening text messages seen by jury at bush bash shooting trial Snowfall cancels Argyle BIA Santa Claus parade OPP say they responded to 162 collisions in a snowy 26 hours Tow truck driver injured after helping stuck vehicle Police seek help identifying suspects in break-and-enter and shooting investigation CTVNews.ca Top Stories A police photographer recounts the harrowing day of the Polytechnique massacre Montreal crime scene photographer Harold Rosenberg witnessed a lot of horror over his thirty years on the job, though nothing of the magnitude of what he captured with his lens at the Polytechnique on December 6, 1989. He described the day of the Montreal massacre to CTV Quebec Bureau Chief Genevieve Beauchemin. NDP's Singh forces debate on $250 cheques for more Canadians; Conservatives cut it short With the fate of the federal government's promised $250 cheques for 18.7 million workers hanging in the balance, the NDP forced a debate Friday on a motion pushing for the prime minister to expand eligibility. The conversation was cut short, though, by Conservative MPs' interventions. DEVELOPING | Police believe gunman who killed UnitedHealthcare CEO has left New York City The gunman who killed the CEO of the largest U.S. health insurer may have fled the city on a bus, New York City police officials told CNN on Friday. Purolator, UPS pause shipments from couriers amid Canada Post strike Purolator and UPS have paused shipments from some courier companies as they try to work through a deluge of deliveries brought on by the Canada Post strike. Northern Ontario man sentenced for killing his dog WARNING: This article contains graphic details of animal abuse which may be upsetting to some readers. A 40-year-old northern Ontario man is avoiding prison after pleading guilty to killing his dog earlier this year. Sask. father who kept daughter from mom to prevent COVID-19 vaccine free from additional prison time Michael Gordon Jackson, the Saskatchewan father who withheld his then seven-year-old daughter from her mom for nearly 100 days to prevent the girl from getting a COVID-19 vaccine, was handed a 12-month prison sentence and 200 days probation on Friday, but credited with time served. Health Canada says daily cannabis use hasn't changed much since legalization Health Canada says daily cannabis use has remained stable since it was legalized in 2018. Quebec premier wants to ban praying in public Premier François Legault took advantage of the last day of the parliamentary session on Friday to announce to 'Islamists' that he will 'fight' for Quebec values and possibly use the notwithstanding clause to ban prayer in public places such as parks. Ticketmaster hidden fees settlement credits expected in 2025 following class-action lawsuit by Regina lawyer A longstanding lawsuit against Ticketmaster is nearing its end, with a judge expected to approve the more than $6 million dollar settlement before the end of the year. Kitchener Threat that caused school lockdowns in Guelph came from the United States Guelph Police Service is releasing more information about a call that caused two schools to go into lockdown and a third to implement hold-and-secure measures earlier this week. University of Waterloo harnessing the power of alpaca poop The University of Waterloo is trying to create an unusual type of compost. Home extensively damaged, school evacuated, after Kitchener fire No injuries have been reported after a fire in Kitchener Friday morning. Barrie Driver charged after passing snow plow in front of oncoming OPP vehicle A driver was pulled over and charged after passing a snow plow in front of an oncoming OPP vehicle. Multi-vehicle crash on Highway 400 snarled traffic A three-vehicle crash on Highway 400 snarled Friday afternoon traffic. Messy road conditions result in several collisions Emergency crews were kept busy in the early morning hours on Friday as the wintry weather created slippery conditions on the roads, and according to weather experts, we’re not in the clear just yet. Windsor Suspects sought after two hardware store break-ins Essex County OPP are investigating two overnight break-ins at hardware stores. Homeless encampment returns to the chagrin of residents Ashley Harrington's problem was solved for a short time, but then a homeless encampment returned behind her property. Annual Holiday Toy and Collectors show raising funds for Adopt-A-Vet: 'We've got to give back' The holiday season is a time for joy, but for many Canadian veterans who are alone, it can be increasingly sad. Northern Ontario Northern Ontario man sentenced for killing his dog WARNING: This article contains graphic details of animal abuse which may be upsetting to some readers. A 40-year-old northern Ontario man is avoiding prison after pleading guilty to killing his dog earlier this year. Purolator, UPS pause shipments from couriers amid Canada Post strike Purolator and UPS have paused shipments from some courier companies as they try to work through a deluge of deliveries brought on by the Canada Post strike. Four transport truck drivers charged in northern Ont. collisions on Hwy. 11 Bad weather and bad driving contributed to multiple collisions on Highway 11 on Wednesday, leading to charges for several commercial motor vehicle drivers. Sault Ste. Marie Northern Ontario man sentenced for killing his dog WARNING: This article contains graphic details of animal abuse which may be upsetting to some readers. A 40-year-old northern Ontario man is avoiding prison after pleading guilty to killing his dog earlier this year. Sault College health students showcase their work Sault College students from three different health-care programs had the opportunity to present their work to local industry leaders at the institute’s second Health Care Research Showcase. Northern Ont. police catch liquor store thief, getaway driver Two people from southern Ontario have been charged in connection with a liquor store robbery Wednesday in the Town of Thessalon. The suspects were caught after trying to flee on Highway 17 and hiding the booze in a snowbank. Ottawa OC Transpo to open Trillium Line in three stages starting Jan. 6 OC Transpo general manager Renee Amilcar announced the Lines 2 and 4 will open in three phases, starting with five-day service Monday to Friday beginning Jan. 6. Another blast of snow coming to Ottawa this weekend It’s cold this Friday in Ottawa, as it feels like minus 17 in the morning and minus 10 in the afternoon with windchill. Vigils held in eastern Ontario to mark 35 years since Montreal massacre Friday marks 35 years since the Montreal massacre, where 14 women were shot and killed at École Polytechnique. Toronto Woman facing 96 animal welfare charges in connection with unlicensed kennel in Hamilton A woman is facing 96 animal welfare charges in connection with an unlicensed kennel in Hamilton, where two pet owners claimed their dogs died while in her care. Hamilton police shut down ‘open air drug market’ they say was 'run like a business' Hamilton Police say that they have shut down an "open air drug market" in the vicinity of a downtown laneway that appeared to be "run like a business." 1 dead, 2 in hospital after collision in Etobicoke A 51-year-old man is dead after a two-vehicle collision in Etobicoke Friday morning. Montreal 'Duty to learn': Vigils mark 35th anniversary of Polytechnique anti-feminist killings Braving a biting winter wind, dignitaries gathered in front of Polytechnique Montréal's main campus on Friday to pay tribute to the 14 women killed at the Montreal institution in an anti-feminist attack 35 years ago. Quebec premier wants to ban praying in public Premier François Legault took advantage of the last day of the parliamentary session on Friday to announce to 'Islamists' that he will 'fight' for Quebec values and possibly use the notwithstanding clause to ban prayer in public places such as parks. Third public art theft in a month: Westmount bronze statue stolen A bronze statue was recently stolen from Prince Albert Square in Westmount, marking the third public art piece to go missing in just over a month. Atlantic Maritime weekend weather: Cold start and snowy finish Colder temperatures lie ahead for the weekend in the Maritimes with another swipe of snow and rain expected Sunday. N.S. RCMP search for Prospect Bay man wanted on provincewide warrant The RCMP is searching for a Nova Scotia man wanted on a provincewide warrant. Sister of man found dead in Kentville, N.S., speaks out The sister of a 52-year-old man found dead in a tent in Kentville, N.S., on Wednesday is speaking out on her loss. Winnipeg Manitoba premier hints at change of location for supervised drug consumption site The Manitoba government signalled Friday it is open to changing the location of a proposed supervised drug consumption site that had been revealed two days earlier and met with criticism. 'A well-loved piece': Historic carousel display from Hudson’s Bay Company store lands at Winnipeg shop When a carousel setup from the Hudson’s Bay Company became available during an auction, a Winnipeg business owner had to have it. Manitoba RCMP looking to identify vehicle possibly connected to double homicide The Manitoba RCMP is looking for help to identify a vehicle potentially connected to a double homicide in Portage la Prairie on Sunday. Calgary Calgary's Fueling Brains Academy targeted by 'possible data breach' Calgary police say a strange email addressed to parents of students at Fueling Brains Academy did not come from the business. Unemployment in Alberta remains steady, population growth continues to drive up Calgary’s unemployment New data shows Calgary’s unemployment rate ranks amongst the highest in the country as its growth in population continues to outpace the availability of job opportunities. Alberta releases new rules and no-go zones on wind and solar projects The Alberta government has released new wind and solar development rules it says are needed to protect the environment, food security and the province's scenery. Edmonton Security guard killed at Edmonton apartment building Homicide detectives are investigating the death of a security guard in central Edmonton on Friday morning. Alberta working to get money's worth on Turkish medication deal after 2 years Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says the government is working to get taxpayer value for the money it paid for medication that has yet to be approved and delivered. Jasper hockey goalie pays tribute to fire-ravaged town Among the things Jasper resident Reid Jackson lost when his family's home was destroyed by the summer fire was his hockey goalie equipment. Regina Bernadette McIntyre named Saskatchewan's 24th Lieutenant Governor Saskatchewan’s 24th Lieutenant Governor will be Bernadette McIntyre after being appointed to the position by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Friday. Roses handed out in commemoration of polytechnic massacre Members of the YWCA handed out roses at the University of Regina to bring awareness to violence against women. Sask. father who kept daughter from mom to prevent COVID-19 vaccine free from additional prison time Michael Gordon Jackson, the Saskatchewan father who withheld his then seven-year-old daughter from her mom for nearly 100 days to prevent the girl from getting a COVID-19 vaccine, was handed a 12-month prison sentence and 200 days probation on Friday, but credited with time served. Saskatoon Bernadette McIntyre named Saskatchewan's 24th Lieutenant Governor Saskatchewan’s 24th Lieutenant Governor will be Bernadette McIntyre after being appointed to the position by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Friday. Saskatoon-based dog rescue operator ordered to pay $27K for defamatory Facebook posts A Saskatoon-based dog rescue operator has been ordered to pay over $27,000 in damages to five women after a judge ruled she defamed them in several Facebook posts. Are other cities better at clearing snow than Saskatoon? One of the noticeable changes during Saskatoon’s 2025 budget deliberations at city hall this past week was an increase to the snow and ice budget. Vancouver Soggy night for Swifties? Umbrellas not allowed at Taylor Swift concert venue in Vancouver There's heavy rain in the forecast for the first night of Taylor Swift's sold-out Eras Tour in downtown Vancouver – and umbrellas are prohibited at the concert venue. B.C. minister wants new safety plan for Victoria schools, threatens board removal British Columbia Education Minister Lisa Beare has appointed a special adviser to help the Victoria school board "revise and improve" its safety plan after it barred police from schools except in emergencies. B.C. ombudsman to investigate delay in sending social assistance cheques amid post strike Thousands of social assistance cheques have not been distributed in British Columbia because of the Canada Post strike, prompting an investigation by provincial ombudsperson Jay Chalke. Vancouver Island B.C. minister wants new safety plan for Victoria schools, threatens board removal British Columbia Education Minister Lisa Beare has appointed a special adviser to help the Victoria school board "revise and improve" its safety plan after it barred police from schools except in emergencies. Victoria man sentenced for sexually assaulting teen after supplying her drugs A Victoria man has been sentenced to five years in prison for twice sexually assaulting a teenage girl – one of four minors he was convicted of targeting over an eight-month period in 2018. Mounties say stolen Dodge pickups recovered near Victoria Mounties on Vancouver Island say two Dodge pickup trucks that were reported stolen last month have been recovered. Stay Connected
Biden is considering preemptive pardons for officials and allies before Trump takes office
FBI director says he intends to resign at end of Joe Biden’s term