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Oil Prices Are Spiking — Here's What It Means for Your Gas Tank and Grocery Bill

  Published July 17, 2026 Crude oil is trading near one-month highs this week, and if you've filled up your tank recently, you've probably already felt it. The culprit: an escalating conflict in the Middle East that's disrupting one of the world's most important oil shipping routes — and it's starting to show up at Canadian pumps and, eventually, on grocery store shelves. What's happening with oil prices West Texas Intermediate (WTI), the North American benchmark, has been trading around the $79–$80 per barrel range this week — up roughly 5% over the past month. Brent crude, the global benchmark that matters more for what Canadians pay at the pump, has been hovering near $85 per barrel, also near a one-month high. The spike traces back to renewed fighting between the U.S. and Iran. The U.S. reimposed a naval blockade on Iran and has intensified strikes, while Iran has responded with attacks on U.S. bases and threats to disrupt regional energy shipments further. ...

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Passover 2025: A Celebration of Resilience Amid Challenges

Passover, known as Pesach in Hebrew, is one of the most widely observed Jewish holidays, commemorating the exodus of the ancient Israelites from slavery in Egypt. This year, Passover begins at sunset on Saturday, April 12, and ends after nightfall on Sunday, April 20. It is a time for family reunions, storytelling, and reflection on themes of freedom and resilience.

However, the celebrations this year are shadowed by ongoing anxieties and divisions within Jewish communities. The unresolved Israel-Hamas conflict continues to weigh heavily, with many Seder tables symbolically leaving empty seats for those lost or held hostage. Additionally, the specter of antisemitism looms large, with reports of increased incidents in various countries, including the United States and Canada. Security advisories have been issued to Jewish organizations, highlighting potential threats during this sacred time.

Despite these challenges, Passover remains a beacon of hope and unity. It serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the Jewish people, who have faced adversity throughout history and emerged stronger. This year, as families gather to recount the story of the Exodus, the holiday's message of liberation and perseverance resonates more deeply than ever.



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