With the beginning of the school year comes a brand new Student Council (StuCo). 

Yuree Na (12), Co-President of StuCo, shares that she’s in charge of organizing meetings, planning events, making final decisions, and everything in between. Na says her favourite part of StuCo is the sense of community that it brings. She explained how StuCo events are a great way to make new friends and get involved, especially as a new student.

“When I first came here, I was a new student,” she shared. “I know that there's a lot of students who are having a hard time adjusting to school, but I feel like student council events can help you make new friends and get more involved in the school community.” 

StuCo organizes many events throughout the course of the school year. Na said that she’s particularly looking forward to the Halloween-related event that is currently in the works.

“Since it's almost Halloween season right now, we're preparing for the Halloween haunted house,” she told The Nest. “I'm really looking forward to that because last year we had a lot of participation and high anticipation for it, so this year we're hoping it'll be just as good or even better than last year.”

Grade 10 representative Tobin Cino (10) is responsible for informing his grade about upcoming events and relaying their ideas to StuCo. Cino wants to prioritize giving students events they actually want to participate in. 

“Something new that I want to do is I want to make actually good spirit days rather than spirit days that no one really cares about. So I want to sort of get people's opinions on what they want to do,” he stated.

Alexandra Vo (11) is a senior member at large (MAL). Her job is to do a little bit of everything. “If any member needs help with anything that they can't do, [or] something that they're supposed to, we're supposed to be ready to help and fill in that spot,” Vo told The Nest.

When asked about what she was looking forward to, Vo said she’s most excited for the upcoming school dance that StuCo is planning. She says that instead of the dance being in the spring this year, it will be in the winter.

“I think it's a really big thing that it's also new because it's at a different time and then we're also doing a different theme and stuff, but it's [still] one of StuCo’s biggest events.”

On Sept. 29, Hamber’s Class of 2027 set sail on Grad Cruise, an event organized through Harbour Cruises. The boat sailed around the Vancouver Harbour and Burrard Inlet, giving grads an event of their own early on in their last year of high school. 

Grad Cruise has become a recent tradition for Hamber’s graduating classes. It has run for three years, since Principal Mr. J. Lauzon (Administration) and now-retired Vice Principal Mr. N. Despotakis (Administration) joined Hamber’s administration in 2024. Mr. Lauzon organized Grad Cruise this year, and in past years, Mr. Despotakis organized the event. 

Ms. B. Panesar (English), a former Grad Committee teacher-sponsor who chaperoned two of the three grad cruises for Hamber students, shared, “We had tried to do something like that in the past and we never got around to doing it.

Either it was too expensive or we just didn’t get that kind of commitment. So it is really great that we [had] that grad cruise in September.” 

For Colin Wong (12), the sunset views and the dance floor were the best parts of the evening. “I think just standing on the top deck, watching the sunset and talking with friends,” he said, when asked what he enjoyed most about Grad Cruise. 

There was also a dance floor and music on the boat. America Garcia (12) picked “Gasolina” as her favourite from the evening, but for Maile Fong (12), the best song was “Apple Bottom Jeans,” while Tirzah King (12) chose “Shut Up and Dance” as her favourite. King added that the best part was “the dance circle, when everyone was taking turns going in [the middle].” 

For some seniors, the cruise made the beginning of their senior year feel more real. Fong shared that she had been looking forward to the event since last year. 

“It was very anticipated, and it just seemed like so much fun [...] Now I’m just waiting for Grad and Prom!” she said, adding that Grad Cruise made the year sink in. 

Jordan Tran (12) said that the cruise brought his grade together. He talked to “people I wouldn't really know or see sometimes. It was pretty nice seeing that. It felt more cohesive.” 

Tran also agreed that the boat outing is now one of the biggest events of senior year. “I think it’s [in the] top three, definitely. After Grad and Prom, I think it is up there for sure,” he said.

When attendees were asked what they would change about the cruise, they only had one suggestion: a little more variety in food choice. “The sandwich was a bit disappointing,” Wong shared.

The teachers that chaperoned Grad Cruise also said that they enjoyed the evening. Mr. R. Lam (Business Education) said his favourite moment was when the boat went under the Lions Gate Bridge. “The light was really nice. It wasn't too dark and the photo opportunities were really pretty.”

When asked to recall a memorable anecdote, Ms. J. Lau (English) said that when some taller students started jumping in the dance circle underneath the boat’s low ceiling, she asked Ms. S. Lemmon (Learning Commons) to go in and calm the students down. 

“She went in, pushed her way into the center of this circle and then was telling them to calm down with her hands,” Ms. Lau said, but the grads couldn’t hear her and didn’t understand what she was saying.

“All of a sudden she sort of went in a circle and went, ‘Oh, forget it,’” and joined in on the dancing. All the students started getting really excited, Ms. Lau said, and she’s happy to have this memory to look back on, seeing “just how nice everybody really was to each other and supportive. It was really fun to see.”

Hamber staff and students have extensive experience with volunteering opportunities, whether by helping connect students with organizations or by giving their time directly. No matter a student’s field of interest, Hamber offers opportunities for everyone.

Ms. D. Peters (Community Schools), Hamber’s volunteer coordinator, said one of the best places to start volunteering is Service Club. Service Club’s main purpose is to connect students to volunteering opportunities around the school, such as setting up for school picture day and preparing the auditorium for events. She added that students interested in volunteering at elementary schools should reach out to her, since she is in charge of coordinating high school leadership opportunities at elementary school events.

For students looking for more specific volunteer work, there are also out-of-school opportunities.

Ms. E. James (Career Education), Hamber’s Work Experience teacher, said that the best opportunity to volunteer is to sign up for WEX 11, a two-year course where students can take steps towards pursuing a career path of interest.

“For students, I think it's also a great opportunity to try out different pathways before you commit to that post-secondary pathway,” she stated in an interview with The Nest.

After students complete the initial WEX program, Ms. James sends them to related paid work or volunteer postings. She said that it’s beneficial to try out everything if you are unsure about what job to pursue in the future, and that putting in hours of volunteer work can show commitment to future employers.

In addition to the opportunities provided by Ms. James and Ms. Peters, students have found other ways to get involved in volunteer work. Jeremy Smith (10) says he volunteers and participates in Scorekeeping Club. “I notice that [being a scorekeeper is] a really great way for students who aren’t part of any sports teams to get involved in the school’s sport community,” he said.

Yuree Na (12) volunteers with Student Council and helps organize school-sanctioned events. She says some positive effects she has noticed when volunteering are that it’s a good way to connect with the community and staff behind the scenes. Volunteering means meeting many people, usually with similar interests, and that can help with making friends. 

“I always found volunteering fun and a great way to get more involved in the school community, and once you're more involved, school feels more fun,” she said.

There are also many opportunities that extend outside of the school community. Riley Ho (10) shared her experience with Rabbitats, a bunny rescue organization. Riley has been volunteering there since grade 6. She takes care of the bunnies and cleans their enclosures. 

“Most times they are short on volunteers, so it is hard for all the rabbits to get the care they need. With over 300 rabbits at the sanctuary, it is a lot of work, so I like to help as much as I can,” explained Ho. During the Rabbitats fundraising events, she helps attract more volunteers and raise money to support the organization.

It's officially spooky season, and with that comes a big decision for Hamberites: what costume will they wear this year?

Although Halloween is on a Saturday this year, some students will be bringing the spooky spirit by wearing their costumes on Friday, both in groups and on their own.

“I think I’m going to be Batman,” shared Alejandra Gomes (9). She plans on wearing a duo costume with her friend for both trick-or-treating and a Halloween party. “[Pinterest] was my best friend while I [was planning] this,” said Gomes.

Gomes isn’t the only one doing a group costume. Linkin Chiu (10) plans on wearing a Ninjago-themed group costume for trick-or-treating with his friends, which he plans on purchasing at Spirit Halloween.

Another group of students, Lucy Kaplan (9), Ellie Lum (9), Leith Wainwright (9), Emmy Abramson Rogers (9), Malina Fane (9) and Madison Hennan (9), are planning a Care Bears-themed group costume with colour-coordinated pyjama sets and bear ears.

For her part, Ms. T. MacLeod (Physical Health Education) plans to wear her homemade Charlie Chaplin costume to school, bringing her bowler hat and putting on a Chaplin walk.

“I have a variety of different costumes and hats, and I’ve got a bowler hat [that I thought would] work with Charlie Chaplin,” she said, when asked about her inspiration for the costume. 

Taking a more traditional approach, Jacob Kwok (8) plans on wearing a classic Halloween costume: a skeleton. Like Chiu, Kwok plans on buying his costume at Spirit Halloween this year.

Uma Bredeson (9) is bringing back the 1980s with her Killer Klowns From Outer Space-themed Shorty costume. The aggressive, yet lovable character sports neon green Liberty spikes and a yellow onesie, making it an iconic and memorable Halloween costume.

From superheroes to skeletons, Hamber students and staff have a variety of different costumes. They all have plenty of original inspiration, and they all show an unwavering Halloween spirit.

Since their debut 15 years ago, Hamber’s PE Leadership 11 and 12 classes have risen in popularity. They’ve helped improve students’ communication skills and provided them with opportunities to give back to their school community, according to the teachers and students involved in the classes.

The courses are the brainchild of Mr. R. Millette (Physical Health Education), who based PE Leadership off a program he ran during his years teaching at Britannia Secondary School. 

“Originally, when I came here, I saw our athletic director trying to find students to run all these different things for athletics, and struggling to find people,” said Mr. Millette. “We started a leadership program, and then we had a ready-made group of students who wanted to do that sort of thing.”

PE Leadership students give their time to assist with planning tournaments, refereeing and keeping score at games, running concessions at tournaments and events, and helping with other sports-related logistics.

In addition to these responsibilities, PE Leadership 12 students also visit elementary school classes three times a week. “We do some activities or we organize some games or just play with the elementary kids.” shared Etienne Bessone (12).

When they are not visiting elementary schools, PE Leadership students run class minigames for grade 8 students. According to PE Leadership 11 teacher Mr. J. Overgaard (Physical Health Education), his students have gained a lot of favour with elementary school administrators. “The principals of these schools are like ‘we need you here every day,’” he said.

Elementary school visits are a recent addition to the course; they only started within the last four years. Both Mr. Millette and Mr. Overgaard agree that this new addition has grown the scope of PE Leadership.

Many PE Leadership students say that they appreciate the opportunity to work on their communication skills and explore different aspects of PE beyond the grade 8–10 classes. 

“I also like the fact that we get to host tournaments and do other things like scorekeeping,” shared Koby Chan (12). Chan said that she enjoys playing with elementary school students, and she’s also an executive for Timers and Scorers Club. 

Beyond scorekeeping and timing, PE Leadership’s goal is to create a positive environment for the school community and encourage students to take initiative, according to Mr. Overgaard. 

“[The] primary objective is to get our students used to volunteering and giving back in support of our school community, our intramural program, athletics, and things like that,” said Mr. Overgaard. As well, he said that PE Leadership teachers are looking for students who want to be involved and contribute to the community. “A lot of it, especially in grade 11, is getting outside your comfort zone. And that's where the growth happens.”

In August, Meta agreed to new rules regarding teen safety on Instagram and Facebook. 

Following legal proceedings launched by 48 state attorneys, each from different states, Meta settled to pay US$18 billion in annual installments over the next decade, according to BBC News.

Studies have found that Meta intentionally used features like endless scrolling, autoplay, and push notifications to keep teenagers engaged on its platforms, contributing to higher rates of depression, anxiety, self-harm, eating disorders, body image issues, and suicide risk among young users, as reported by AP News.

Features like "infinite scroll" eliminate natural stopping points, while push notifications exploit variable rewards like a slot machine, making it even harder for undeveloped minds to stop scrolling, lawyers argued.

Victoria Hinks, who lost her daughter to suicide, told BBC News that Meta is “intentionally preying upon the fragile psyche of teens.”

“You have to be sixteen to drive, eighteen to vote, twenty-one to drink, twenty-five to rent a car but at any age you can see anything on the internet, and there are no guardrails and these companies know it,” she said.

In addition to the case that Meta settled for US$18 billion, the social media company is still being sued by thousands of individuals, school boards, and municipal governments who allege that Meta knowingly caused a mental health crisis among youth. 

According to CTV News, the US$18 billion settlement is roughly three to four months of net profit for Meta. Had Meta kept going with the trial to the end and then lost, the price they paid would’ve been a lot more. CBC News says that the total liability could have been up to $1.4 trillion USD, which is nearly equivalent to Meta’s worth. 

Apart from the US$18 billion settlement, Meta has also paid other large sums to due other lawsuits. In a case filed by the State of New Mexico, Meta was ordered to pay US$942 million to address the “youth mental health crisis its platforms helped create,” according to the Social Media Victims Law Center.

These financial liabilities go to pay for the rehabilitation of addicted youth, and they also serve as compensation for families who have lost children to depression and suicide. As Hinks said to BBC News, “no amount of money is ever going to bring my beautiful daughter back.”

The Social Media Victims Law Center concludes that “we see this ruling as validation of what we have argued for years: the youth mental health crisis is not an unfortunate byproduct of social media, but the direct and foreseeable result of design choices Meta made to maximize engagement over the safety of children.”

At the California federal trial this summer, Meta agreed to new rules to keep teens safe. As per BBC News, their new rules for teens, which will be implemented over the next few months in the US, include a two-hour time limit, no access from midnight to six a.m., no visible like or thumbs-up system for youth accounts, and muted notifications for school hours. Meta will also impose stricter age verifications.

However, imposing stricter age verifications may also have drawbacks, CBC News explains, since the more strict verifications there are, the more personal information Meta will have on every individual user.

Additionally, age-verification technology is not currently very advanced. Most large companies tend to verify age through biometric scans (like selfies), government ID checks, or analysis of behaviour patterns. 

However, each verification method also has its flaws, according to TechCrunch. Behavioural analysis can misjudge minors as adults and some ID/biometric checks give personal data to third-party companies. 

Concerns surrounding the privacy of users’ data previously surfaced in 2018, during the Cambridge Analytica case, a multi-million lawsuit where many Facebook users’ private data was leaked to a British consulting firm without any informed consent. 

Dr. Alexis Ingber, a professor of communications at Syracuse University, commented, “This is a classic debate around prioritizing safety over privacy.” She told researchers at TechCrunch that if people wanted to keep their children safe on Meta platforms, they also have to conform to the age verification that is going to introduce new data privacy concerns.

Meta is also pushing other companies like YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat, and their respective parent companies to incorporate these new features, which could lead to a shift in the entire industry, not just Meta.

Value Add VC, an investor group that provides startups with operational support, industry expertise, and financial capital, suggests that Meta isn’t asking other companies to change from the goodness of their hearts, rather, Meta wouldn’t want to lose out on their market to other companies whose apps aren’t as restricted.

While these new rules were formed in American courts, some experts say that Meta’s new rules will soon come to Canada, as well. 

Carmi Levy, a technology analyst and journalist, explained to CBC News that “Historically, whenever companies like Meta introduce significant changes to their infrastructure in a certain region, eventually, they do go global. We saw this with the European Union, where their regional changes eventually went world wide.” He expects that over time, Canada will see these changes as well.

On Oct. 25, the BC Conservatives secured an electoral majority following a snap election called by then-BC New Democratic Party (NDP) Leader David Eby, whose party has held the most seats in the legislature for the last nine years. 

BC Conservative leader Lorne Doerkson will be the province’s new premier, with his party holding approximately two-thirds of the 93 seats in BC’s legislature. Eby resigned as the leader of his party, but he won his own seat in Vancouver-Point Grey.

Eby called the snap election on Sept. 20, leading British Columbians to head to the polls two years earlier than the latest possible election date in 2028. 

During his first few days of campaigning, Eby said he called the election because of Canada’s trade war with the US and the new tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump, according to CTV News. However, later on in the campaign, Eby justified calling the election by saying that he wanted his party to have a greater majority of seats in the legislature.

The largest parties running in the election were the BC Conservatives, the BC Green Party, and the BC NDP, although there were 13 parties in total. Only the BC Green Party, the BC NDP and the BC Conservatives won seats in the election, and only the leaders of those parties were invited to the leader’s debate that took place on Oct. 14.

According to The Globe and Mail, the Conservatives won 64 seats, the NDP won 27 seats, and the Greens won two seats.

At the debate, Emily Lowan, leader of the Green Party, promised a significant change to taxation in the province. “If you have a fortune of 50 million dollars and up, you would pay a five per cent tax on that wealth once, and it would be a retroactive tax year to ensure minimal wealth shifting,” she said. Revenue raised from the tax would provide free transit, universal childcare, more non-market housing, and higher assistance rates, according to Lowan. 

Eby also wanted to tax wealthy citizens. He planned on taxing people who have an income of over $1 million to help fund healthcare. Additionally, Eby wanted to recruit more doctors to improve healthcare in BC. At the leaders’ debate, Eby said, “We’ve connected 800 American healthcare workers with jobs here in British Columbia and we’re going to triple that.”

Doerkson has a different approach on taxes. He does not believe that the ultra-wealthy should be taxed.“Instead of watching their hard-earned money disappear into government spending that hasn’t made their lives any better, there will be no new taxes,” said Doerkson, according to CityNews. 

Doerkson has also outlined a clear stance on the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (DRIPA). According to him, “DRIPA has to be repealed in this province” to protect private property rights.

While Doerkson wishes to get rid of DRIPA, Lowan wanted to keep it, and Eby didn’t take a clear stance on DRIPA.

During the campaign, the parties took slightly different approaches to campaigning. The BC NDP and the BC Conservatives held events in major urban areas, while the BC Greens took a different approach. Both Doerkson and Eby have mainly been campaigning in Metro Vancouver, while Lowan spent most of her time in her own constituency, Saanich North and the Islands, and in other constituencies on Vancouver Island.

On Sept. 29, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced the first comprehensive plan to combat anti-Semitism in his city. His plan includes increased security funding for synagogues and a focus on learning about Jewish history in the city's public schools.

According to the Associated Press, Jewish people are the victims of around 50 per cent of reported hate crimes in New York City, although they account for 12 per cent of the total population.

Mamdani’s strategy focuses on raising awareness about Jewish history and fighting anti-Semitism, in part by preserving and understanding Jewish history, culture, and Jewish people’s contributions to New York City.

According to a statement from the mayor's office, Mamdani will collaborate with NYC Public Schools to ensure that more students visit the Museum of Jewish Heritage, which will help them learn about Jewish history and the Holocaust stories of Jewish New Yorkers, according to the statement. The plan also includes increased security funding for synagogues and emphasizing Jewish history in New York City Public School’s classrooms.  

According to Mamdani’s office, funding for Partners Against The Hate will be doubled to US$6.4 million. These funds will support community organizations that work to counter hate crimes and support victims. 

Another US$1 million will be invested into security at synagogues and other houses of worship, and $26 million will be invested into the city’s Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes. 

Another part of the strategy involves making it easier to report hate crimes and a campaign to increase New Yorkers’ knowledge about the City Human Rights Law. 

Brad Lander, a former city comptroller and prominent supporter of Mamdani, said the mayor’s plan is a “thoughtful strategic combination of education for tolerance, enforcement of civil rights, and investment in safety,” according to the Associated Press. 

Amy Spitalnick, the chief executive of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, commended the report for its proposals, but questioned why it used a limited description of anti-Semitism. 

“Obviously there is a very real threat of right-wing anti-semitism,” Spitalnick told The New York Times. “The report should also recognize that in the last few years, we’ve seen increasing violence targeting Jews under the guise of protesting Israel.”

Liz Krueger, a state senator from Manhattan, praised City Hall for proposing “concrete strategies the city intends to pursue to address the growth of antisemitism.”

“It is crucial that our mayor, as the leader of our government, continues to make clear through words and actions that Jews in New York can express their religious and political beliefs,” she said, according to The New York Times.

Critics of the strategy have mainly focused on what they say is Mamdani's anti-Israel rhetoric.

Rabbi Rick Jacobs, president of the Union for Reform Judaism, said he supports some aspects of Mamdani’s plan, but also criticized the mayor’s stance on Israel.

“For this effort to be effective, Mayor Mamdani must also commit to stopping his harsh anti-Israel rhetoric that makes Jewish New Yorkers vulnerable as there are clearly times when antisemitic attacks are fueled by anti-Zionism,” he said, according to the Associated Press.

During his 2025 election campaign, critics were upset with Mamdani for not initially criticizing the slogan “globalize the intifada,” which some say incites violence against Jewish people

“To not be willing to condemn the slogan ‘globalize the intifada,’ it just demonstrates his callous disregard for antisemitism […]” Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz told The Hill.

However, Mamdani did not use the phrase himself, and later spoke out against the slogan, according to the Associated Press.

Ofir Akunis, Israel's consul general in New York, posted on X a statement that was directed to Mamdani.

“Until you recognize that your language against the Jewish State, which you don’t recognize as the homeland of the Jewish people, is the fundamental reason for the rise in antisemitism in New York City, it will continue to increase,” he said. 

According to Partners Against The Hate, nearly two-thirds of Jewish voters in New York City are not in support of Mamdani’s handling of anti-Semitism. In a survey of 503 Jewish voters in New York City, 65 per cent disapproved of Mamdani’s response to anti-Semitism, which includes 47 per cent who say they strongly disapprove of Mamdani’s policies on the matter.

As well, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called Mamdani the “antisemitic mayor of New York,” during his Sept. 24 speech at the United Nations’ headquarters in New York City, according to the Associated Press. Netanyahu also accused Mamdani of spreading lies about Israel.

On Oct. 17, municipal elections were held across BC. In Vancouver, the Green Party’s Pete Fry was elected mayor, replacing Ken Sim of ABC Vancouver. Several other key races also played out across the province, and results are summarized below

Vancouver 

There were eight mayoral candidates this year, representing the Liberal, Green, ABC, Bright Future Vancouver, TEAM, and Vote Vancouver Parties, with the remaining two candidates running independently. 

Fry, Vancouver’s newly-elected mayor, won by a 15.1 per cent margin over runner-up Ken Sim, according to The Vancouver Sun. Fry amassed a total of 98,494 votes, winning 47.8 per cent of the total. 

According to CityNews, Fry’s campaign focused on issues like housing costs, climate action, public safety, and greater government transparency. On his website, he said that he was campaigning most strongly for “sustainable growth,” and promised that he “will support a full range of housing options, while protecting green space and advancing climate action.” 

He has criticized Sim’s administration and its conservative-leaning agenda, seeing as the Green Party identifies as progressive. As per CBC News, Fry was “the only candidate to call himself a progressive and had the implicit support of other self-described progressive parties.”

Nine Vancouver School Board (VSB) trustees were also elected on Oct. 17. The Coalition of Progressive Electors (COPE) received the most votes overall. Three OneCity Vancouver candidates were elected to the board, and the Green Party holds the remaining two spots. 

The same can be said about Vancouver City Council. According to Daily Hive, “Left-wing and progressive candidates won nine of the 10 councillor seats. Including Fry’s mayoral seat, they will hold 10 of the 11 seats on City Council.” The progressive councillors on city council are from COPE, the Green Party, and OneCity. The ABC’s Mike Klassen is the sole conservative member of city council. Sean Orr of the COPE Party received the most votes, with a total of 83,038, according to the City of Vancouver’s preliminary count.

Burnaby

Independent candidate Mike Hurley won the election in Burnaby, securing his third term as mayor. Hurley’s campaign was focused on housing, public safety, arts and culture appeal, and more. He won by a large majority, with 58.3 per cent of votes going toward him, according to the City of Burnaby. The runner-up, Heymann Yip of the Burnaby First Party, won 18.6 per cent of the popular vote.

North Vancouver (District)

In the District of North Vancouver, Mayor Mike Little of the Conservative Party was re-elected for a third term.  He won by a 20.7 per cent margin with 10,431 total votes, while his runner-up, Stephen Nieweler, received 6,145 votes.

Surrey

Doug McCallum won his fifth term in Surrey this election, regaining his post from the previous mayor, Brenda Locke. According to Surrey Citizen, he has plans to halt the building of her $360 million proposed arena, and also to “reverse course on the city’s demolition of the horse barns at Cloverdale Fairgrounds.”

Richmond

The Richmond Forward’s Rob Howard was elected mayor of Richmond. According to his website, he is campaigning for a stronger economy, safer streets and public spaces, better support for seniors and families, fiscal accountability, and more. He received 19,676 votes (34.5 per cent) of votes, beating Alexa Loo of the Richmond Strong Party by 1.6 per cent.

After more than 60 years since the commercial whaling of blue whales was banned globally, new evidence shows that there has been an increase in sightings of blue whales. This increase has been especially prevalent over the last few years.

As of data published on Aug. 15, the blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus) is classified as endangered globally, while the Antarctic blue whale subspecies (Balaenoptera musculus intermedia) remains critically endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List. The current Antarctic blue whale population is 3 per cent of what it was before commercial whaling began, and since the commercial whaling ban, the population has been increasing by 5 to 8 per cent every year. 

Scientists have found evidence that blue whales are returning, especially to areas where they were heavily hunted before. According to the British Antarctic Survey, in 2020, 55 blue whales were spotted over 23 days around South Georgia, a sub-Antarctic island belonging to the UK. Forty to 50 years prior, only two blue whales had been spotted around South Georgia. 

Although the increased sightings suggest blue whales may be returning, greater observation effort and reporting could also help explain the increase.

Blue whales are present in all oceans except the Arctic Ocean. They migrate depending on the season between summer feeding grounds and winter breeding grounds. New evidence suggests that, in some areas, they don't migrate at all. Most whales move to where their food is most abundant.

For over 5,000 years, human civilizations around the world have been hunting whales. This started along Brazil’s southern coast. Up until the 1860s, blue whales couldn’t be hunted, due to their size, which made capturing and transporting them difficult. 

It wasn't until 1863 when Svend Foyn invented a steam powered whale catcher that was strong enough to capture blue whales weighing up to 200 tons (equivalent to 400,000 lbs). This invention gained popularity first in Norway, between 1873 and 1883, and once blue whale stocks became depleted in the area, whaling expanded to Iceland and beyond. These boats made hunting blue whales easier, allowing whalers to catch them in greater numbers. Features like mechanical weapons including harpoons were added in the early 1900s, making hunting even more efficient. 

By the early 1900s, 340,000 blue whales were killed. The International Whaling Commission (IWC) banned hunting blue whales globally in 1966 and the species was declared endangered in 1970. By the time the ban was put in place, 99 per cent of the blue whale population had been killed. Before whaling, the blue whale population was approximately 300,000. During peak whaling, numbers went down to about 1,000 to 1,500, and currently, there are approximately 10,000 to 25,000 blue whales. 

The reported increase in the blue whale population may not only be due to the time elapsed since the whaling ban was implemented. 

Conservation groups map blue whale migration routes to identify areas that need protection. This has resulted in slower ship speeds and shipping routes that avoid blue whale feeding areas, which reduces the possibility of collisions and fatal vessel strikes. In addition, it reduces underwater noise pollution from ships and industrial activities that disrupt blue whale echolocation.

Changes to fishing gear have also lowered the risk of blue whales becoming entangled in ropes and nets. Efforts made to protect the krill that blue whales rely on as a main food source has also been key to helping the species survive and reproduce.

The Vancouver School Board’s (VSB) high school teachers have voted 98.6 per cent in favour of a statement of non-confidence in VSB Superintendent Helen McGregor and Secretary-Treasurer Flavia Coughlan.

The union representing the teachers says that the vote stems from concerns surrounding cuts to services while the District reports a budget surplus, reduced access to in-person courses, and decision-making processes that do not allow for input from staff. 

However, in a statement emailed to The Nest, VSB Communications said that the District’s operating surplus is within a typical range, that some classes were reorganized at the beginning of the school year due to a reduction in enrollment, and that the school board is committed to working with unions to promote student success.

The Vancouver Secondary Teachers’ Association, which represents 1,400 VSB high school teachers, conducted the non-confidence vote and says that 1,131 teachers — or 80 per cent of all union members — participated in the vote, which is non-binding. Results were released on Oct. 13.

In the past, VSTA members at a particular high school have voted non-confidence in their school’s administrative team. However, VSTA 1st Vice-President Carl Janze explained in an interview with The Nest that holding a non-confidence vote at the District level is unprecedented for his union.

“We've never really been in a position of taking [a] vote on the superintendent. It's never been a district-wide thing like this. And in fact, I know of only two districts [in BC] that did this in the last decade,” he said.

In a press release from the union, VSTA President Carmen Schaedeli said that the non-confidence vote is a reflection of broader dissatisfaction that staff have with management, rather than a response to a specific dispute.

“This vote is not simply about one decision or one difficult school year. It is a response to a sustained pattern of decisions that teachers say has put budget outcomes and management priorities ahead of stable classrooms, adequate student supports, and meaningful engagement with the people closest to students,” she said.

One issue of concern for teachers is that the District recently reported a $15 million surplus, while they say that schools are currently experiencing staffing shortages and cuts to services, according to a statement from the union.

“Teachers see a widening gap between positive financial results and the resources actually reaching classrooms,” the VSTA’s statement says.

Janze added that when money is tight, the District consistently does not prioritize funding that goes directly to classrooms.

“And where the cuts seem to occur is where it has the greatest effect on students, families, and teachers in classrooms. That's where they cut. They don't actually cut at senior management,” he said.

However, in their statement, the VSB notes that “financial statements reflect the school district’s financial position at a particular point in time,” and that the District’s overall accumulated surplus remains within the acceptable range, as established by Board Policy 19. As per this policy, the acceptable range for the accumulated surplus is 1.0–2.5 per cent of annual operating expenses.

As well, the VSTA says that teachers are concerned about recent changes that affected students’ timetables. The union says that multiple high school classes were closed or reorganized after school started in September, and Janze said that knock-on effects from these changes have reverberated throughout many classrooms in the district.

“We have students who suddenly lost a teacher and found themselves in a new classroom. We experienced incredible disruption across the school district, and it impacts not just the teacher who was surplused, but also all of the students that get moved around and all the teachers who suddenly now have to pick up the students that got moved around,” he said.

As a result, the union says, many students haven’t been able to enroll in courses at their home schools and fill their timetables. Students have been told to take spare blocks or online classes because in-person classes weren’t available, and some have been unable to access core academic classes, the union says.

However, the District says that changes to staffing levels in September are a typical part of the timetabling process, and that some changes occurred in September to account for a reduction in the total number of high school students.

“Secondary staffing and course schedules are based on projected enrolment and student course selections, and are reviewed and adjusted when actual enrolment is known in September,” VSB Communications wrote in a statement to The Nest. 

“Changes at that time are a normal part of the annual school organization process, not a general reduction in course offerings. Changes in staffing were made in September as a direct result of decreased enrolment in secondary schools.”

The union also says that an increase in class sizes and a reduction in learning supports is harming students’ learning.

In a statement, they say that staffing for educational assistants, learning-support teachers, counsellors, and specialized services is inadequate, and both students with diverse needs and their classmates are negatively impacted as a result.

However, according to the VSB, resources for students have recently been increased.

“The Board’s 2026–27 budget increased direct supports for students, including additional school and student support workers and supervision aide hours, following a three-month engagement process involving inherent rights holders, formal stakeholder groups and the broader school community,” their statement reads.

Additionally, the VSTA is criticizing changes made to processes for unions and other stakeholders to provide input on decisions made by the District.

“Long-standing opportunities for information sharing and authentic input from teachers, families, students, unions, and community partners have been reduced or altered—weakening trust and the quality of decision-making,” reads their statement.

“There's a disconnect between us and the people who make decisions. That's really unfortunate because, in the end, it's students and families that suffer from that,” Janze added.

On the contrary, the District wrote that it values input from staff and offers opportunities for them to engage in the decision-making process.

“Formal stakeholder groups, including VSTA, participate in the financial planning process and also provide input through Board committees and discussions with staff. VSB remains committed to working with inherent rights holders, stakeholder groups and partners to support student learning and well-being,” reads the District’s statement.

However, union leaders say that they want to see significant changes from their employer.

“This is a decisive call for change from Vancouver’s secondary teachers,” said Schaedeli. “The budget process has failed when students cannot access the classes and supports they need. Decisions need to be transparent, student-centred, and informed by the people who work with students every day.”

The 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup has begun, and Canada’s team includes four players from BC. According to FIFA, Canada is in Group C, alongside Brazil, Norway, and Ghana, with players born in either 2009 or 2010 eligible for the team, according to Soccer Canada. 

Adrianna Giese, a defender, is from Burnaby, and has most recently appeared for Canada’s U-17 team at the Four Nations Cup in the US. 

“I fell in love with soccer when I was four and it's remained my passion ever since,” Giese said, according to NCSA Sports.

Lacey Kindel, Brooklyn Boldt, and Hanjarat Boora are all forwards from BC. 

Kindel is from Coquitlam, and both of her parents played on Canada’s senior national teams. She was named most valuable player of the BC Premier League (BCPL) in 2026, and in the same year, she became the youngest player to appear in a Northern Super League match while playing for Vancouver Rise, according to CTV News. Since then, she’s started playing soccer in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) for the Michigan State Spartans. 

Boldt is from South Surrey, and scored 14 goals in the BCPL in 2026. She has committed to play collegiate soccer with the University of Wisconsin in 2027, according to Soccer Canada.

Boora, who is from Surrey, has been called to represent Canada for the first time. She scored four goals for the Vancouver Rise Academy in 14 BCPL matches.

Canada qualified for this year’s cup because they won their group matches in the CONCACAF U-17 Women's World Cup qualifiers. Canada's first match in the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Morocco was on Oct. 18.

Canada played Brazil and lost with two goals to six. The first goal was scored by Reed Tingly in the fourth minute of the game. The ball was kicked from the corner to Elizabeth Proulx, with a header to Tingly, who scored the goal. According to CONCACAF, in the past five editions of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, Tingly’s goal was Canada’s second-fastest. The second goal of the match was scored by Chloe Scicchitano, in the 50th minute. 

Canada’s U-17 team also had a match on Oct. 21 against Norway, again in the Mohammed VI Football Complex. They defeated Norway three goals to two. Tingly scored another early goal, this time in the 15th minute. She then went on to score again in the 32nd minute, off a penalty shot. Canada’s last goal in the match came from Adalyn Fairweather in the 65th minute. 

As of publication, the team’s most recent match was against Ghana on Oct. 24, where they lost with zero goals to two. FIFA says Brazil finished first in Group C, and Ghana secured their place in the Round of 16 after their victory against Canada. In the meantime, Canada will wait to see if they can join the Round of 16 by placing in the top four third-placed teams in the tournament.

First up is Project Hail Mary, which is listed as an apocalyptic sci-fi with features of space adventure, directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller. This story follows Ryland Grace, played by Ryan Gosling, a science teacher who wakes up light-years away from humanity with no memory of his identity or how he ended up in space. As he slowly begins to recollect, he uncovers his mission to stop an unknown substance killing the sun. If you liked Interstellar – or any outer space movie for that matter, this film is a must-watch! Ryland Grace’s space isolation creates an ominous vibe, which stretches throughout the entire film. The cinematography was stellar, fascinating the audience with incredible space landscapes.

Super Mario Galaxy, based on the iconic Nintendo game, is an action-adventure animation set in outer space, directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic. Released Apr. 1, Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach must explore space to save Princess Rosalina from Bowser and his son. During their rescue, they explore cosmic worlds, adventure through the galactic, and stop Bowser. Seeing this movie in theatres was nostalgic for my childhood growing up surrounded by video games. This sequel is just as enjoyable as the original in every way.

Michael, the biographical drama based on Michael Jackson, was directed by Antoine Fuqua. It follows the story of the infamous “King of Pop” through his stolen childhood and how he rose to his breakthrough as one of the greatest entertainers of all time. From his start in The Jackson 5, to enduring years of mental, emotional, and physical abuse from his father, this portrayal of Michael Jackson reveals how he persevered to conjure some of the most iconic songs in the world. This movie contained many familiar musical numbers, such as “Thriller,” “Billie Jean,” “Human Nature,” and fan favourites from The Jackson 5.

Obsession belongs to the horror genre and was directed by Curry Barker. Baron Bailey is in love with his co-worker Nikki Freeman, making the mistake of wishing on a “One Wish Willow” for her to love him back. Hopelessly blinded by love, he fails to realize the intensity behind her obsession with him. It had been a while since I’d seen a good horror movie, so this immediately caught my attention.

Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu, following the sci-fi Star Wars lineage blending with action and adventure, was directed by Jon Favreau. In a galaxy far, far away, after the fall of the Galactic Empire, the Mandalorian, and his apprentice, Grogu, embark on new journeys together. They must bounty hunt for the New Republic, taking on adventures and security assignments to track down imperials and criminals across the galaxy. Like many iconic Star Wars movies bursting with action and eerie suspense, this one does not disappoint. Almost every scene is bursting with effects and exploding with sound!

Toy Story 5 is an action and adventure family comedy, directed by Andrew Stanton. Bonnie experiences difficulties making friends and fitting in. Woody, Jesse, and Buzz find themselves in an ordeal against electronics and the desire to bring back playtime. A lot of scenes in this animation stirred up my own regret of using devices at a young age. The message behind the film explores how much technology is consuming our childhood. Overall, this was a great comedy with plenty of laughs!

The Odyssey is dramatic action and fantasy adapted from Homer’s Greek epic, directed by Christopher Nolan. After the Trojan War, Odysseus must set forth on a dangerous voyage, journeying home back to Ithaca. Throughout his adventure, he faces trials and tribulations, crossing paths with many dangerous creatures. Meanwhile, Ithaca is vulnerable, because untrustworthy suitors for Queen Penelope have taken over Odysseus' palace. The tension during the film sent eerie chills through the entire theatre. 

Lastly, Spider-Man: Brand New Day, directed by Destin D. Cretton, stars Tom Holland as the iconic webbed vigilante in this action movie. Following the events that took place in its prequel, Spider-Man: No Way Home, Peter Parker finds himself forgotten by his loved ones. As Peter begins to experience chaotic changes in his abilities, a new villain terrorizes citizens. This emotional rollercoaster is sure to keep all Marvel fans on the edge of their seats. Action-packed scenes, relatable humour, and good comedic timing fill theatres with booming laughter and suspense.

2026 has been a killer year for movies — and it’s far from over! There are still plenty more highly anticipated films set to be released, such as Avengers: Doomsday and The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping. So movie lovers, be ready. Let’s hope 2027 is just as good! 

Between controversial advertising campaigns, dubious social ties, and a tiring insistence on her own sex appeal, Sydney Sweeney has undoubtedly become one of Hollywood’s most recognizable faces. While there is inherently nothing wrong with being attractive, the way Sweeney’s appearance has been sold and repeatedly used shows that she appeals to some questionable ideals.

For instance, take Sweeney’s American Eagle jeans advertisement, which quickly accumulated clout for its “great jeans/great genes” wordplay. Its language use invited comparisons between ideal physical attractiveness and the idea of genetic superiority, insinuating that Sweeney’s pale complexion, blonde hair, and blue eyes are an example of “great genes.” The message the ad sends, whether intentional or not, is aligned with right-wing, white supremacist culture. The controversy was hardly helped by the ad’s sexual nature, making it less about selling denim and more like another opportunity to sell a woman’s body.

Then came the Dr. Squatch soap ad, featuring visuals of a near-nude Sweeney in a bathtub, advertising a soap bar made with her bathwater. This was another example of Sweeney using her sexuality as the main selling point. This campaign turned predominantly male desire into a marketing strategy, with the consumer being encouraged that buying and using the product would bring them closer to possessing the fantasy itself. The product being advertised was so outrageous that a rumour spread across social media that the soap had a hole in it for male self-pleasure, and for a while, many believed it to be true.

This brings us to the most recent of Sweeney’s controversial advertising campaigns: the infamous sports gambling ad for Novig, which, yet again, used Sweeney’s near-nudity, with her covering herself up merely with sports equipment. One line from the ad in particular, “Think you know sports?” went viral on social media due to its condescension toward female athletes, who have spent decades fighting to be taken seriously. By using their industry as the backdrop for yet another advertisement selling sex appeal, Sweeney is showing just how little she cares about the feminist movement.

Additionally, the actress was personally invited to and attended Jeff Bezos’ wedding on Jun. 27, 2025. Bezos’ wedding was a symbol of extravagant billionaire wealth, attracting a fair amount of criticism over its scale and impact on Venice, according to ABC News. Sweeney’s attendance alone does not establish her political beliefs, but it does situate her comfortably within a social circle associated with immense wealth and conservative culture. Combined with her advertising choices, it raises lots of questions about the image that Sweeney is cultivating.

Through her countless sexualized advertising campaigns, Sweeney proves to be a major hindrance to feminism. By repeatedly promoting female objectification, she reduces the idea of female empowerment and liberation down to the freedom to sell one’s body, pushing down a movement rooted in gender equality. Her attendance at Bezos’ wedding only adds to the mix, placing her amongst the uber-wealthy whose interests often intersect with conservative, MAGA politics. These associations paint a rather telling portrait of a self-entitled celebrity who is content to benefit from the progress of feminism while disregarding how her own public image undermines it.

In May 2026, the Vancouver School Board (VSB) announced that it would be providing secondary students aged 13 and older with access to Microsoft Copilot 13+, an artificial intelligence (AI) assistant. 

In a statement, the VSB says they are aiming to encourage safe and responsible AI use and prepare students for a world in which technology is highly prevalent.

To understand how this decision has affected students, The Nest spoke to five Hamber students from multiple grades, and asked them about how they use AI.

Many interviewees explained that they do not regularly use Microsoft tools, such as Copilot, for schoolwork. Instead, some students use programs such as ChatGPT to research topics and clarify difficult concepts, while others choose not to use AI at all.

“I use [AI] for drafting and study sheets, mainly,” said Samuel Lazarian (10). However, he does not use Copilot regularly. Instead, he uses other AI tools.

Jackson Newland (10) said that he uses AI approximately once a week, mainly to search for information and explain difficult concepts. He said that he uses AI to understand his work, rather than to complete assignments dishonestly.

“I think we should be able to use it a little bit, but we shouldn’t cheat with it,” he added.

A student in grade 9 also described occasionally using AI for research, particularly when exploring topics in social studies. They said it helps them deepen their knowledge and develop a better understanding of subjects. “It helps me understand and expand on topics, so [I can] get more information on [them].” The Nest is not naming this Hamber student, because they requested to remain anonymous.

Not everyone, however, sees AI as a necessary learning tool. 

Mila Chan (8) said she never uses AI for schoolwork because she’s concerned about its environmental impacts.

“Well, first off, AI is really bad for the environment, and the reason [why] a lot of climate change is happening is because [of] AI. So, if I can help the world a little bit, I'll stop using AI.” She’s also frustrated that AI features are becoming increasingly integrated into digital platforms, which she says makes AI increasingly difficult to avoid.

Despite the VSB’s decision to provide eligible students with access to Copilot, several Hamber students interviewed said they rarely or never use Copilot. 

“Never. Like, not Word, not PowerPoint. I don't use Copilot,” Lazarian said, when asked about this AI use. Some prefer alternatives, while others avoid AI altogether. “I use ChatGPT to get information online or if I'm having trouble with schoolwork.” Newland said.

Nevertheless, most students interviewed by The Nest said that they support the VSB’s decision. Lazarian believes that introducing AI to students aged 13 and older could help them learn to use the technology for educational purposes. And Newland also  supports access to AI. 

“That's good, because it lets students have it be a bit more flexible, and if they don't understand, they can just look it up, instead of having to meet with the teacher in real life,” he said.

The grade 9 student who requested anonymity said that regulating AI use may be more effective than banning it, since students are likely to encounter the technology regardless.

Others raised concerns about students’ ability to use AI responsibly. Micah Filate (9), another student interviewed, suggested that older students may be better equipped to recognize plagiarism and understand the importance of completing their own work. 

“I think people who are older could probably use it more responsibly [...] They’ll be more careful,” Filate says.

Some students reported that their teachers discourage or prohibit AI use, while others said their teachers have not established specific rules beyond broader school expectations.

Students disagree about how strict these policies should be. Newland believes that AI should be permitted when it supports learning, provided students do not use it to cheat. Chan supports restrictions because she believes assignments should reflect students’ own efforts. Filate commented that, while the technology can provide useful assistance, "plagiarism is a thing,” and AI can raise concerns about inaccurate information and students becoming too dependent on AI-generated answers.

On Nov. 3, Americans will head to the polls to vote in the midterm elections, where one-third of seats in the US Senate and all 435 seats in the US House of Representatives will be up for re-election. As election day draws closer, Republicans and Democrats are vying for public support on key issues, such as the war in Iran, affordability, healthcare, and immigration. 

The Senate and House of Representatives are the two chambers that make up the US Congress, which writes, vetoes and passes all federal laws. While the offices of president and vice-president will not be up for re-election, the midterms could redirect the current legislative dynamics by electing lawmakers who support or oppose the president's agenda.

According to BBC News, the November midterms will reflect US President Donald Trump’s performance and popularity. If the Republican Party were to gain more seats, satisfaction with Trump’s current policies would be represented. The reverse also applies.  

Recent polling numbers from the Silver Bulletin show that Trump’s approval rating is declining, relative to his predecessor’s popularity. Since Trump began his second term, his approval rating has dropped from 50 per cent to 37 per cent. Comparatively, ex-President Joe Biden had an approval rating of 40 per cent at the same point in his term as president.

These statistics are further corroborated by a Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll released on Oct. 18. The survey found that 52 per cent of American adults strongly disapproved of Trump. 

Currently, Republicans hold 218 out of 435 seats in the House of Representatives — the bare minimum required to hold a majority government.

Trump’s falling approval rates could be due to rising living costs, especially amidst the US–Iran war. Since the war began, gas prices have increased significantly, reaching US$4 per gallon, according to BBC News. According to BBC News, a poll conducted in August found that 63 per cent of Americans disapproved of Trump’s handling of the war in the Middle East. 

This comes after Trump’s 2024 election promise to “end inflation and make America affordable again.” 

However, Trump has described concerns surrounding affordability as a "con job by Democrats,” and he has falsely stated that prices for consumers have decreased during this second term as president, according to CBC News.

Healthcare has also been a major topic of the debate. Throughout Trump’s presidency, over US $1 trillion has been cut from Medicaid, Medicare, and the Affordable Care Act, according to The Washington Post.

In response, many Democratic candidates have been focusing on the rising costs of US healthcare and how it has been affected by Trump’s legislation. 

In a request for information, Democratic Senator Ron Wylan spoke of his party’s stance, stating the Democrats’ “goal is to make sure that the long term care system serves all people across age and disability, and across diagnoses, functional needs, and life stages,” according to The Hill.

Trump’s border and immigration policies have also prompted criticism from Democrats. Trump has recently praised his border policies as a success, pointing to lower border-crossing rates.

Others find that these policies, including the deployment of ICE, are not an adequate way to manage immigration rates. According to The Guardian, arrests related to immigration enforcement have reached record highs during Trump’s presidency.

An Oct. 4 poll by NBC News and Telemundo found that two-thirds of registered Latino voters thought that Trump’s deportation policies had gone “too far.” Additionally, more than one in four of these voters said they knew someone who had been deported or detained by ICE in the last two years, and 17 per cent said that they know someone who may not vote in person this year due to ICE activity.

Democrats have responded by proposing their own policies. On its website, the California Democratic Party has pledged to “fight inhumane treatment of undocumented individuals.” The party also promises to “demand Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers throughout the chain of command comply with all laws and [pursue] the prosecution of all those who have violated the law.” 

Tariffs have also become a key issue in the lead-up to the midterm elections, with candidates expressing differing views on Trump’s trade policies, including some Republican candidates who have opposed Trump’s actions. Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers of Michigan stated in a campaign advertisement, “Here in Michigan, we know that Canada is not our enemy. We need to end this tariff war — now.”

However, Trump has defended his trade policies. At an Oct. 23 rally in Florida, Trump said that the "tariffs" is his "favourite word" because they've "made us rich," according to CBC News.

On Sept. 30, Christa Pike survived two lethal injections in Tennessee, sparking controversy surrounding the attempt of a third lethal injection.

Death penalty expert Austin Sarat shared that approximately 8 per cent of lethal injections given in the United States have been ‘botched,’ meaning that while something went wrong, the person still died, according to CBC News.

“What happened to Christa Pike was not a botched execution; it was a failed execution, and it’s very rare,” Sarat told CBC News. According to health reporter Catherine Sweeney, Pike was given two lethal injections, and she was still breathing when media witnesses were told to leave, as per WPLN News.

Experts interviewed by Newsweek outlined three possible explanations surrounding the drug’s malfunction: the drug may have degraded, meaning it had lost its strength, the drug may have never fully entered Pike’s bloodstream, or Pike could have reacted differently to the injection. Tennessee does not disclose drug suppliers for lethal injections, and therefore the state has not said which company produced Pike’s injection dose.

James Crowson, who represented Christa Pike during part of her legal battles, told The Guardian, “I knew that there were a number of defense filings saying that she had compromised veins, and that was going to be a difficult and perhaps cruel procedure for her because it was going to put her at risk for exactly what happened.”

Pike has a blood disorder called thrombocytosis which results in a higher chance of blood clots due to platelets sticking together to stop bleeding.

As of Oct. 6, Christa Pike was conscious and speaking, and a few days later, she was also walking. Pike was returned to jail on Oct. 10. 

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee said he has ordered a "comprehensive, third party review” of Pike's execution, as per the Death Penalty Information Centre. Lee told NewsNation that “the remaining scheduled executions will not be carried out this year,” and Pike's attorneys have asked for a court order to preserve all evidence from the failed execution. 

Tennessee state law stipulates that for a person to be executed, they must understand why they are receiving the death penalty. Since Pike does not have a clear memory of what happened, questions surrounding the ethics of the execution have also arisen.

Oakridge Park officially opened its doors this May. Following its opening, it has quickly become a bustling hub of luxury shopping, diverse dining, and vibrant culture. But what does this revamp mean for students, and have we found Hamber’s new favourite hangout hotspot? 

To put these questions to rest, we visited Oakridge Park ourselves and got the scoop up close and in person. 

With over 100 premier brands across 650,000 square feet, Oakridge is truly a sight to see. High ceilings, a sunroof, and beautiful circular architecture gives this destination an airy, spacious atmosphere. Additionally, there are many designated spaces to socialize and meet others, such as the origami tables. Located in the North Atrium, near the entrance, people can sit and socialize while folding beautiful paper creations between 3:00–5:00 PM daily, giving Oakridge a community feel.

Oakridge Park also features a vast expanse of clothing brands, ranging from streetwear to workout apparel to red carpet couture. There are many high-end stores such as Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and there are also a few stores that students are more familiar with, including Aritzia and Lululemon.

Fashion isn’t the only thing you can stock up on at Oakridge Park. There are also plenty of other products offered, such as luxury jewelry from brands like Tiffany & Co. and beauty and wellness products from brands like Sephora.

Compared to the standard food courts you’d find at most malls, Oakridge Park’s Time Out Market stands out in appearance, cultural lineup, and menu. Immediately, you're greeted with warm, comforting aromas in a space bustling with lively crowds and busy restaurants. 

Time Out has over twenty different acclaimed restaurants and bakeries by local culinary legends. Having a hard time choosing what to eat? Beside each stall is a brief description that introduces the type of cuisine it offers. Our personal favourites include DownLow Chicken and Mello Donuts, but Time Out’s diverse cultural menu ensures that everyone will have something to eat.

The downside to Time Out Market is its prices. They can range from around $20 to $30 per person! If your bank account is starting to look suspiciously empty, Time Out definitely won’t help.

Just steps away from the Time Out Market is The Commons, a multi-acre outdoor space for everyone to unwind. One of the first things you’ll notice as you enter the rooftop park is a field of large dandelion-shaped canopies called “Bush Capsules.” Designed by Canadian artist Brian Jungen, they combine design, shelter, and symbolism to create an eye-catching piece for the public to admire.

The outdoor patio includes an oval-shaped synthetic track that wraps around the building, a gym area equipped with a variety of exercise beams, and a one-of-a-kind playground featuring concrete geometric blocks. Don’t feel like moving? Play a game of ping-pong and foosball on the complimentary tables near the grassy field. If you forget to bring your own equipment, rent a paddle and ball from the Concierge Desk for free — a perfect way to have fun without a price!

On top of recreational tables that are available daily, Oakridge Park also arranges live music at the Time Out Market and North Atrium. They also host weekly events such as Mahjong Mondays, Zumba Wednesdays and Chess Club Saturdays. Designed for all skill levels, these social clubs are a great way to connect with new people in your community.

If you’d rather admire art than break a sweat outside, visitors will find that Oakridge Park is also home to strikingly beautiful contemporary art pieces. One example is “The Nest,” a grand statement piece that sits outside of Time Out Market. It imitates a rattan bird’s nest, with floral accents and hummingbirds along the side of the walls. Nearby is a 3-D miniature replica of Oakridge Park. 

Only a 20-minute walk from Hamber, Oakridge Park is an accessible after-school hangout destination. There is an array of different stores to satisfy your every need. The food served at Time Out Market is perfect to treat yourself after finishing a gruelling test, and with its warm atmosphere and frequent events, everyone is sure to have a blast. So to answer our questions: yes, Oakridge Park is definitely a contender for top hangout spot!

In the early hours of Sept. 30, FlyDubai Flight 1073 dropped 16,000 feet in just over 30 seconds while carrying 174 passengers. The quick thinking of a pilot and passengers averted what could have otherwise been a disaster.

UAE Attorney General Attorney Hamad Saif Al Shamsi claimed the attack was inspired by the events of Sept. 11, 2001, and that Omani copilot Hamam al-Hammami attempted to hijack the plane with the intent to crash it into the terminals at Ben-Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, Israel. 

According to BBC News, al-Hammami used the crash ax found in the cockpit to stab pilot Smit Machchhar. As he bled, the pilot used his remaining energy to open the door to the cockpit. This allowed passengers to access the locked cockpit and stop the hijacking. 

“The co-pilot, he wanted to pray. And suddenly there was a big blow to the back of my head," Machchhar said, according to CBS News. "I did try to stop him, and that's when I gave everything that I had, and just went for the door and opened the door and thankfully people were waiting."

Among these passengers was plumber Yaniv Hayun. Upon entering the cockpit, Hayun found al-Hammami attempting to smash the control panel to try to bring the plane down. Hayun and some other passengers were able to subdue and restrain the hijacker. Hayun then quickly leveled out the plane. When asked why he knew how to stabilize the aircraft, Hayun replied, “I watch Air Crash Investigation, Mr. Prime Minister,” he said, according to Reuters.

During the incident, the plane’s rudder, which turns the nose side to side, was broken off during the ascent after Hayun pulled back on the yoke to stabilize the aircraft. During the ordeal, the Boeing 737 MAX experienced 3.08G of force, although it was only designed to withstand 2.5G, according to The Jerusalem Post. 

Retired Col. Steve Ganyard, a former US Marine Corps fighter pilot and contributor to ABC News said, "This airplane is going 600 miles an hour, pointed at the ground, and a passenger on board is able to pull back on the yoke, and pull the nose up out of the dive, and not rip anything more than the rudder off the airplane." Ganyard further noted, "That force of gravity, like you feel in a roller coaster, if you go up about four Gs, you are likely to damage that aircraft if not break the wings off.”

By chance, two of the passengers aboard were off-duty pilots deadheading to their next flight. The two acting pilots assumed the controls and flew the remainder of the way. The plane had been enroute from Dubai International to Ben Gurion International Airport, but was diverted to Tabuk Airport, in Saudi Arabia. Upon landing safely, Machchhar was sent to the ICU at the local hospital. 

In the attack, Machchhar suffered a skull fracture, damaged vision, and serious injuries to his head and hands. According to a report from Firstpost, in a conversation with Netanyahu, Machchhar said, "I tried to stop him. But because of the initial blows, my vision was almost nothing. I was completely blurred out […] My memory is still in bits and pieces right now. But this is what I remember of that time.” Dr. Shota Musaev, who was the only doctor on board the plane, treated the stab wounds on Machchhar’s head and hands.

“If he hadn't been smart and heroic, we would not be alive. On the other hand, if we had not been heroes, he would not be alive," Musaev said, referring to Machchhar, according to CBS News. A recent report from News On AIR noted that Machchhar is currently recovering at Zayed Military Hospital in Abu Dhabi and he hopes to return to flying.

“I will be back in action hopefully soon. And I can’t wait to put on the uniform and get back to work […] Did my love die for aviation? Not at all. Not at all,” he said.

Over the past three years, FlyDubai went on a mass hiring streak, in order to provide more low-cost flights, which has led to questions from aviation experts. According to the Wall Street Journal, Al-Hammami had previously worked for Oman Air from 2020–2024, but was fired over concerns that he harboured extremist ideology.  It remains unclear whether Oman Air shared its concerns about the pilot’s radicalization with other countries or airlines.

This attempted hijacking has raised security concerns as both the UAE and Israel try to determine how this could have slipped through their security protocols. Before graduating to captain, first officers are supposed to be vetted by FlyDubai’s in-house psychology division, according to a former pilot at the company and active crew member at the sister carrier, Emirates. 

“He had met the professional and security requirements for employment, including holding a pilot’s license, providing a certificate of good conduct and completing the required checks,” Al Shamsi said, according to The Wall Street Journal. “However, none of the procedures revealed any indications of his extremist views or his intention to carry out a terrorist plot.”

In a statement, FlyDubai CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith wrote, “I know there are many questions about what happened on board FZ 1073. A full official investigation, led by the relevant authorities and fully supported by FlyDubai, is underway. It is important that we allow this process to establish the facts.” 

He added, “We are deeply grateful that everyone on board FZ 1073 is safe, and for the continued support of our customers, our people and our industry partners.”

To date, al-Hammami has not been linked to any specific terrorist groups, and no group has claimed credit. The UAE and Israel continue to investigate, and the story continues to evolve as more information about specific details is released to the public.

On Sept.14, Macklemore was dropped as an opener for Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour, due to his comments on the Israel–Palestine conflict. Some are condemning Sheeran for the decision, while others are praising him for it.

Sheeran’s working relationship with Macklemore dates back to 2014, when they went on tour together. They also collaborated on the song “Growing Up (Sloane's Song)” in 2015. However, the dynamic between the two changed when Macklemore called for a “free Palestine” and performed the protest song “Hind’s Hall” at his first two opening shows for the Loop Tour, on Sept. 4 and 5.

“A big part of the reason why I wanted to do this tour in the first place is so I could stand up in stadiums like this and say two words that are very near and dear to my heart: Free Palestine,” Macklemore said while on stage at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Sept. 4.

On Sept. 5, while on stage at the same stadium, Macklemore explained that his comments were not a criticism of Jewish people, but rather a criticism of the Israeli government for committing what he called a genocide.

“To all of my Jewish brothers and sisters: Criticism of Israel, criticism of apartheid, being against genocide in no way is a criticism of you,” he said, according to Billboard.

In response, on Sept. 6, the Israeli-American Council launched a petition to remove Macklemore from the tour. 

According to the petition, Macklemore "used the stage to deliver an extended political message, called for 'Free Palestine' and performed Hind's Hall while images from Gaza and other political messaging were projected across the stadium screens."

"This becomes even more troubling when the message relies on selective imagery, biased messaging, and disputed claims presented to a massive audience as fact, without context or complexity,” the petition said, according to BBC News.

In 2014, Macklemore performed at the EMP Museum in Seattle, while wearing a costume that critics said was anti-Semitic, according to BBC News.

The character Macklemore portrayed had a large fake hooked nose and beard. In response to the criticism, Macklemore stated at the time that he didn’t intend for the costume to be offensive, but after performing, he realized that the costume could have resembled a “Jewish caricature.”

On Sept. 14, Sheeran and his touring managers removed Macklemore from the tour.

Macklemore spoke out following this decision, and showed sympathy for Sheeran while criticizing him for not taking a side and speaking up for Palestinians. “There is no neutral position between the oppressor and the oppressed,” he said, according to Billboard. 

In statement posted to Instagram on Sept. 15 , Sheeran shared that he “was also involved in direct talks with promoters along with activists on both sides to try and find a mutual resolution for all,” according to Rolling Stone. 

However, he stated it was ultimately the venue and concert organizers that made the final decision to let Macklemore go. 

In the statement, he explained that he respects “Macklemore’s strength of purpose to stand up and shout for what he believes,” but that, “there is room for multiple approaches to the same end: peace. I choose to use my fame and platform to be a place of safety and sanctuary, to maintain diplomacy and keep conversations open, not closed.”

Sheeran also shared with his followers that he and Macklemore had a “fundamental disagreement” on the situation in Gaza. In response to Macklemore being dropped, several other openers for Sheeran’s tour, including Aaron Rowe, FINNEAS, Lukas Graham and the band Beoga, dropped out in solidarity with Macklemore.

“Artists must not be silenced when they speak up for the oppressed,” FINNEAS said in a statement.

On Sept. 24, Macklemore announced his own tour, the Free Palestine Tour, where all the profits would go to Palestinian families. His first three tour dates, happening Oct. 26–30 in Dublin, Paris, and London, “sold out immediately,” Macklemore said, according to CBC News.

Macklemore has pledged to donate all of the money he earned from his two openers, roughly US $1 million, to Palestinian organizations. He plans to donate the revenue generated from the Free Palestine Tour to 12 different charitable organizations, including Gaza Soup Kitchen, Medical Aid for Palestinians, and HEAL Palestine.