Unseasonably warm temperatures have proven to be challenging in the fight against an out-of-control wildfire in the Annapolis Valley.  The Department of Natural Resources said yesterday the fire at Lake George was estimated to have grown slightly to just over 2.8 square kilometres, mainly because of dry and windy conditions.  Temperatures also climbed into the high 20s at a time when the average daily high in the region is normally below 15 degrees Celsius.  Officials say the fire is burning deep in the ground and crews are working to protect homes, cottages and other structures.

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Prime Minister Mark Carney will have his second meeting in the Oval Office with Donald Trump today as Carney balances the expectations of Canadians with the realities of trying to negotiate any tariff relief from the U-S president.

Trump yesterday indicated he is committed to his punishing tariffs.

He also boasted that companies were leaving Canada and moving to the United States.

Some experts are tempering expectations that today’s White House meeting will see a drop in tariffs right away — but they are hoping for a hint of progress.

 

 

Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberal government plans to table the federal budget in the fall going forward, ending the long-standing practice of releasing the document in the spring.  Starting with the upcoming November 4th budget the typically shorter economic and fiscal updates will now come in the spring, closer to the start of the fiscal year on April 1st.

The budget is also set to introduce a separation between operating and capital spending.  Ottawa says the change is aimed a reviving stalled business investment and focusing on how federal dollars contribute to long-term economic resilience.

 

 

The Pictou County Chamber is gearing up for the Pictou County Business Awards Gala, which is set for Wednesday October 22nd at 6:00PM.  It’s a night the celebrate the achievements, innovation, and leadership of businesses and individuals in Pictou County.   Regional Chief Andrea Paul will be the keynote speaker for the evening. Tickets for The Business Awards Gala are on sale now.