Tim Dolighan cartoon, Feb. 14, 2025

A tax cut reducing Canada's lowest federal income tax rate from 15% to 14% takes effect on Canada Day, promising modest savings for many, though doubts remain about its impact, especially for seniors. While the government predicts savings of up to $840 for families, the Parliamentary Budget Office estimates average savings of only $90 this year and $280 next year, leading to criticism from the Conservative Party. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: A...

U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra expressed confidence that a free trade deal between Canada and the U.S. will be reached following the cancellation of Canada's digital services tax, which had been a major trade irritant. Prime Minister Mark Carney acknowledged the tax's removal was anticipated in negotiations, while Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized the absence of concessions from the U.S. in return. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra announced that with...

A sidewalk outside Goodlife Fitness in Heron Gate buckled during a recent heatwave, prompting reports of similar issues across Ottawa. Professor Beatriz Martin-Perez explains that temperature differences cause concrete to crack, but these sidewalk issues are generally not hazardous; the city quickly responds to assess and repair as needed. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: During a recent heatwave, sidewalks outside the Goodlife Fitness gym in Heron Gate buckled due to temperature-induced stress on...

Manitoba Minister of Families, Gender Equality, and Accessibility Nahanni Fontaine apologized after being overheard criticizing the presence of an American Sign Language interpreter during a graduation event, describing it as distracting. She acknowledged her comments did not properly recognize ASL's significance and expressed regret to the Deaf community, emphasizing the importance of accessibility in public events. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: Manitoba's Minister Nahanni Fontaine apologized for making negative comments about an American...

Calgary-based artist Lynne Rennie is creating a "cultural mosaic" of Canadian identity through her drawings, which feature a blend of iconic symbols such as the beaver, Tim Horton's cup, bagged milk, and the North American house hippo. Her work showcases a diverse range of references that celebrate the uniqueness of Canadian life and culture. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: Artist Lynne Rennie is drawing pictures that show all the special things about being...

A little girl fell overboard from the Disney Dream cruise ship into the Atlantic Ocean, prompting her father to jump in after her; both were swiftly rescued by crew members on Sunday. Disney confirmed the incident, noting that their safety protocols were effective, as the guests were brought back onboard within minutes. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: A little girl fell off the Disney Dream cruise ship into the ocean, and her brave...