Food bank use soars in B.C.: report

An Ontario woman, Glenda Marie Esteves, was sentenced to four years in prison and fined $610,856 for operating a Ponzi scheme disguised as a lipstick business, defrauding victims of nearly $5 million. Esteves, who pleaded guilty to multiple charges, claimed to produce lipsticks using forged documents to attract investments, causing significant financial and psychological harm to her victims, many from her Filipino community. Want More Context? 🔎

Canada's housing crisis is projected to worsen as housing starts are expected to decline from 245,367 in 2024 to 237,800 this year, and further to 227,734 next year, falling short of the 480,000 annual target needed. Despite government promises to increase supply, challenges such as high costs, interest rates, and regulatory barriers have hindered progress in addressing affordability and construction. Want More Context? 🔎

A recent CROP poll indicates that support for Quebec independence has surged 20 percentage points among youth aged 18-34, now at 56%. This shift is attributed to a decline in attachment to Canadian identity and growing discontent with federal support, with the pro-independence group Oui Québec playing a significant role in mobilizing youth interest. Want More Context? 🔎

Canadians can witness the Perseid meteor shower peaking on August 12-13, 2024, with optimal viewing from rural areas between moonset and dawn. Though the bright moon may reduce visibility to 10-20 meteors per hour during the peak, waiting a week for darker skies could increase sightings to 60-100 meteors per hour, making patience and proper preparation essential for the best experience. Want More Context? 🔎

A judge in Windsor sentenced Shermere Coulston-Hawkins, a 24-year-old American, to 18 months for intentionally running down a woman after a violent altercation during their date, despite the Crown seeking up to eight years. The judge emphasized the need for community denunciation and deterrence while also noting mitigating factors, leading to Coulston-Hawkins' deportation to the U.S. after serving his time. Want More Context? 🔎

A lawyer for Animal Justice expressed shock over whistleblower reports detailing the treatment of animals, including dogs and pigs, used in experiments at St. Joseph’s Hospital in London, where dogs reportedly face isolation and painful procedures. The hospital defended its practices, citing regulatory oversight and the research's medical importance, while critics argue for alternatives to animal testing. Want More Context? 🔎