"In a significant shift in policy, the Alberta government has announced that residents can now pre-order paid COVID-19 shots starting in June. This move marks a departure from the previous free-vaccination approach, as those seeking inoculation will need to book an appointment and pay a substantial fee, exceeding $100 in most cases.

While this change may come as a surprise to many, it's essential to stay informed about the evolving health policies in our province.

Calgary Police Investigate Violent Road Rage Incident, One Suspect in Custody

A disturbing incident of road rage unfolded in Calgary on Monday morning, leaving one person injured and sparking a police investigation. According to authorities, the assault occurred in the 0-100 block of Martinvalley Way N.E. just before 9 a.m. and involved a weapon.

Emergency responders were quickly summoned to the scene, where they provided medical aid to the victim. Fortunately, the individual's condition has been stabilized, and they are expected to make a recovery.

Police have confirmed that one suspect has been taken into custody in connection with the incident. The investigation is ongoing, and law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information about the assault to come forward.

Those with tips or details about the incident can contact the Calgary Police Service at 403-266-1234. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers.

The Calgary Police Service is working diligently to ensure public safety and address the rise of aggressive driving in the city. By working together, citizens can help prevent such violent incidents and create a safer, more harmonious community.

Air Canada Issues Lockout Notice in Response to CUPE's 72-Hour Strike Notice

Air Canada has issued a 72-hour lockout notice to the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) representing 10,000 flight attendants, effective immediately. This decision comes after CUPE provided notice of its intention to begin a strike on August 16, 2025. To mitigate the impact of the potential disruption on customers, Air Canada will initiate a phased shutdown of its operations over the next three days.

Despite eight months of good-faith negotiations, including the assistance of federal conciliators, Air Canada has been unable to reach a tentative agreement with CUPE. The airline tabled a revised comprehensive proposal on August 11, which included a 38% total compensation increase over four years, addressed ground pay, improved pensions and benefits, and contained other improvements. Unfortunately, CUPE rejected this offer and instead chose to issue a strike notice.

"We regret the impact a disruption will have on our customers, our stakeholders, and the communities we serve," said Michael Rousseau, President and Chief Executive of Air Canada. "However, the disappointing conduct of CUPE's negotiators and the union's stated intention to launch a strike puts us in a position where our only responsible course of action is to provide certainty by implementing an orderly suspension of Air Canada's and Air Canada Rouge's operations through a lockout."

Air Canada has requested government-directed arbitration to resolve the situation, citing recent government interventions in rail, port, and airline labour disruptions in Canada as precedent. The airline believes that a third-party, independent arbitrator can assist in addressing outstanding issues and develop a new tentative agreement through binding arbitration.

In the meantime, Air Canada Express flights operated by Jazz and PAL Airlines will continue to operate as normal. However, customers whose flights are cancelled will be notified and can obtain a full refund. The company has made arrangements with other Canadian and foreign carriers to provide customers alternative travel options to the extent possible.

Air Canada strongly recommends against customers going to the airport unless they have a confirmed booking and their flights are showing as operating. The airline has implemented a flexible rebooking policy for all customers, allowing them to change or defer travel at no additional cost.

For more information, customers can visit www.aircanada.com/action, where they will find an FAQ and additional resources to help navigate the situation.

Air Canada is committed to providing its customers with the highest level of service and apologizes for any inconvenience this situation may cause. The airline remains available for further negotiations or to explore options to finalize a new collective agreement.

"A rapidly-spreading wildfire on Vancouver Island has prompted the evacuation of up to 300 people from a nearby campground, according to the British Columbia Wildfire Service. The Mount Underwood fire, discovered on Monday evening, is exhibiting aggressive behavior, prompting the closure of a nearby road to ensure public safety.

The campground, located near Port Alberni, was swiftly evacuated as the fire continued to grow in size and intensity. Firefighters are working diligently to contain the blaze, with multiple crews and aircraft deployed to battle the flames.

The BC Wildfire Service has warned residents and visitors in the surrounding area to remain vigilant and follow evacuation orders, as the situation remains volatile. The cause of the fire is currently unknown and is under investigation.

With wildfire season in full swing, this latest incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety and preparedness in British Columbia. Residents and visitors are urged to take necessary precautions to prevent wildfires and stay informed about local fire danger ratings.

Stay tuned for further updates on the Mount Underwood fire as the situation develops."

"A recent report from the Trump administration has highlighted a concerning trend in the United Kingdom, suggesting that human rights conditions in the country have deteriorated over the past year. The report, which is part of the State Department's annual country reports on human rights practices, points to several areas of concern, including restrictions on freedom of expression, discrimination against marginalized communities, and issues related to police accountability.

The report notes that while the UK has made progress in certain areas, such as the protection of women's rights and the promotion of disability rights, there are still significant challenges that need to be addressed. For example, the report highlights instances of hate crimes and discrimination against ethnic and religious minorities, as well as restrictions on freedom of assembly and association.

The UK government has made efforts to address some of these concerns, including the establishment of an independent inquiry into allegations of police misconduct. However, the report suggests that more needs to be done to ensure that human rights are fully protected and respected in the country.

The report's findings are likely to spark concern among human rights advocates and policymakers, who have long seen the UK as a bastion of human rights and democracy. The Trump administration's decision to highlight these concerns suggests that the US is serious about promoting human rights globally, and that no country is above scrutiny.

The report's release comes at a time when the UK is grappling with a range of domestic and international challenges, including the ongoing impact of Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic. The UK government will need to take the report's findings seriously and work to address the concerns raised, in order to maintain its reputation as a champion of human rights and democracy."

Let me know if you need any adjustments!

[08-12, 10:05 a.m.] null: *As we navigate the journey of life, let us not forget that the foundation of a prosperous future lies in the choices we make today.*

In selecting a life partner, may we prioritize those who embody the qualities of taqwa, a love for knowledge, and a dedication to the deen. For it is through their guidance that our children will flourish, and our legacy will be shaped.

Similarly, may we make the Quran our constant companion, finding solace and wisdom in its verses as we traverse the ups and downs of life. By doing so, we ensure that we are never truly alone, and that our path to the Hereafter is illuminated. ✨

Mashallah

"The Fijian Government has announced a significant investment of $1.2 million to construct modern mortuary facilities in various health centers and hospitals across the country. This initiative aims to improve the overall healthcare infrastructure, ensuring that deceased patients are treated with dignity and respect.

The new mortuary units will be built in several locations, including Rakiraki and Tavua Sub-Divisional Hospitals, Nadarivatu Health Centre, Kadavu, Levuka, Savusavu, Dreketi, Wainibokasi, Nayavu Health Centre, Navua, Nabouwalu, and Taveuni Sub-Divisional Hospitals. This development will not only enhance the quality of healthcare services but also provide a safe and secure environment for the handling of deceased patients.

This project is a testament to the Government's commitment to providing a safer, more prosperous, and secure Fiji for all citizens. By investing in modern mortuary facilities, the Government is ensuring that families and loved ones can bid farewell to their deceased with dignity and respect, even in the most difficult of times.

This initiative is a significant step forward in the Government's effort to strengthen the country's healthcare system, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on communities across Fiji. #Safer #Secure #ProsperousFiji #FijiGovernment"

A devastating forest fire has erupted in Jamaat al-Darara, Chefchaouen Province, Morocco. Flames are engulfing the area, sending plumes of smoke into the air. Emergency services are scrambling to contain the blaze, with reports of residents being evacuated from the nearby area. The exact cause of the fire remains unknown, but authorities are working to determine the origin and mitigate the damage."

The Governor-General of Australia recently visited the Dilmah tea tourism site in Cape Weligama, where she met with Dilhan Fernando, the Chair of Dilmah Ceylon Tea Company, and his wife Serena. This visit underscores the strong bilateral trade and cultural ties between Australia and Sri Lanka that have been fostered by the Dilmah brand over the past four decades.

During her visit, the Governor-General also had the opportunity to interact with children and staff from the MJF Charitable Foundation center in Weligama, which is funded by Dilmah. This foundation provides crucial education programs to families across Sri Lanka, emphasizing the company's commitment to social responsibility and community development.

Moreover, she met students from The Resplendent Academy, a collaborative initiative between Dilmah and the William Angliss Institute of Australia. This academy offers hospitality training to young individuals from the Weligama and Galle communities, thereby contributing to the enhancement of their professional skills and career prospects. This partnership exemplifies the positive influence that education collaborations can have on local economies and the lives of the people involved.

The relationship between Dilmah and Australia extends well beyond the realm of trade, as seen through these various social and educational programs. These efforts not only support the growth of the tea industry but also serve to deepen the friendship and collaboration between the two nations. Through initiatives like these, Dilmah continues to make a significant impact on the lives of people in Sri Lanka and reinforces the strong ties between the two countries.

Premier Smith;
"Today, I had the privilege of engaging with esteemed industry representatives from Canada and Mexico to explore opportunities for Alberta to foster stronger economic ties and increase investment between our regions.


I would like to extend my gratitude to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Mexico, WestJet, Air Canada, CN Railway, CPKC Rail, Scotiabank, Grupo Vida, Grupo Bimbo, Grupo Carso, GMexico, and Orbia for their invaluable insights and expertise. Their contributions greatly enhanced our discussion on potential areas of collaboration.

Furthermore, I was delighted to visit TC Energy, the largest Canadian investor in Mexico, and gain a deeper understanding of their operations through a tour of their control room. As a vital player in ensuring the safe transportation of natural gas, TC Energy plays a crucial role in supporting energy security and reliability in Mexico. I am committed to building on this momentum by strengthening relationships with Mexican officials and Canadian companies like TC Energy to identify ways in which Alberta can further contribute to Mexico's energy sector."