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Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit: What You Need to Know About Tomorrow's Payment

  If you've ever received a GST/HST credit payment from the CRA, there's a good chance money is landing in your bank account tomorrow — and this time, it could be noticeably bigger than usual. On June 5, 2026 , the federal government is issuing a one-time top-up payment to more than 12 million eligible Canadians as part of the transition to the new Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) . Here's what the payment is, how much you could receive, and what changes are coming in July. What Is the June 5 Payment? The June 5 deposit is a one-time GST/HST credit top-up — equal to 50% of your annual GST/HST credit entitlement for the 2025–26 benefit year. Think of it as a bonus mid-year payment on top of your regular quarterly schedule. This payment is part of the federal government's bridge between the old GST/HST credit and the new Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, which officially launches in July 2026. The goal is to get money into Canadians' hands now, b...

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Frosty Forecast: Shubenacadie Sam Signals Six More Weeks of Winter

 

In a heartwarming winter tradition, Nova Scotia’s beloved groundhog, Shubenacadie Sam, emerged from her burrow on February 2, 2025, at the Shubenacadie Wildlife Park to deliver her annual prediction. The excited crowd—made up of families bundled in their warmest coats—and thousands tuning in online watched as Sam peeked out into the crisp, frosty morning.

According to age-old folklore, if a groundhog sees her shadow, it means an extended winter is on the horizon. This year, Sam’s brief appearance confirmed that chilly forecast, as she was seen with her shadow, signaling six more weeks of wintry weather ahead. A park spokesperson noted that Sam’s prediction, made at 8 a.m. AST, sets the stage as Nova Scotians prepare for more time to enjoy their snow-covered landscapes before the arrival of spring.

Adding to the day’s festivities, the event coincided with World Wetlands Day—an occasion that highlights the importance of local biodiversity and conservation efforts. The wildlife park offered interactive displays and educational activities, underscoring the region’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage while celebrating this enduring cultural ritual.

Whether or not one believes in the weather-predicting powers of a groundhog, Shubenacadie Sam’s annual forecast remains a cherished part of Nova Scotia’s winter traditions, inviting the community to embrace the season’s beauty and prepare for the extra weeks of winter weather ahead.


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