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Start Saving Now for September: Your RESP Checklist Before the School Year Hits

  Canadian Money Brief · Family Finance September feels a long way off on July 1. That's exactly why now is the right time to look at your child's RESP — not in late August when the school supply list arrives and the grant math gets rushed. If you have a Registered Education Savings Plan (or you've been meaning to open one), here's what to check right now, and why the calendar year — not the school year — is what actually matters. Why July, Not August The Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG) — the government's 20% match on RESP contributions — runs on the calendar year , not the school year. Grant room for 2026 resets on a January-to-December basis, and it doesn't carry any special "back to school" deadline. But summer is genuinely the best time to check your numbers, for three reasons: You still have six full months left in the year to top up if you're behind. Contributions made now have more time to grow before your child needs the money. You av...

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Northern Lights Illuminate the East of England: A Spectacular Display of Aurora Borealis


The East of England recently witnessed a breathtaking natural phenomenon—the Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis. Night owls and star gazers were treated to a mesmerizing display of color as the skies lit up with vibrant hues. Here’s what you need to know about this awe-inspiring event:

  1. Geomagnetic Storms and Solar Wind Interaction:

    • The Northern Lights occur due to the interaction between charged particles from the solar wind and Earth’s atmosphere.
    • Recently, one of the strongest geomagnetic storms in years hit our planet, creating ideal conditions for the aurora borealis.
  2. Spectacular Sightings:

    • People across the East of England—from Buckinghamshire to Norfolk—captured stunning images of the lights.
    • Social media flooded with photographs showcasing the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights.
  3. Best Viewing Times:

    • If you’re eager to witness this celestial spectacle, wait until after 22:30 BST for the best views.
    • The magenta and red hues danced across the night sky, leaving spectators in awe.
  4. Where to Look:

    • Residents of Cambridge, Burnham on Crouch (Essex), Long Crendon (Buckinghamshire), and other areas were fortunate to witness this rare event.
    • Police officers in Hertfordshire even took a moment during their night shift to capture photos of the illuminated sky.
  5. Further Sightings:

    • There’s a possibility of additional sightings on Saturday night, so keep your eyes on the horizon.

Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or simply appreciate the wonders of nature, the Northern Lights provided a magical experience for all who looked up. Remember to gaze skyward and marvel at the cosmic dance of light! 

Sources:

  1. BBC News: Northern Lights illuminate the East of England
  2. BBC News: Northern lights turn skies magenta over East of England12

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