John Ackermann

1 month ago | vancouver.citynews.ca | John Ackermann

One of Justin Trudeau's principal legislative achievements during his near decade as prime minister was the federal government's legalization of cannabis on Oct. 17, 2018. But nearly seven years later, what was once considered a golden goose has gone up in smoke according to journalist Ben Kaplan, author of Catch a Fire: The Blaze and Bust of the Canadian Cannabis Industry. "I just couldn't believe that things were changing so rapidly.

1 month ago | vancouver.citynews.ca | John Ackermann

Richmond's Gateway Theatre is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year with a dynamic new season, including a special gala Saturday night. Barbara Tomasic, the theatre's executive artistic director, says it's in honour of four decades of providing joy, community, and connection through live entertainment. "It started with a referendum to vote on the theatre, and then it was a group of community members who were, like, 'you know what?

1 month ago | vancouver.citynews.ca | John Ackermann

The 97th Academy Awards are set for Sunday. But, if you can't make it down to Hollywood, Calif., Vancouver's Hollywood Theatre may just be the next best thing. The venue will host an Oscars 2025 Watch Party on Sunday afternoon. Hosting the event will be drag performer Alma Be, who says attendees can dress up if they like. "Wear what you feel comfortable in," she said. "If you feel comfortable putting on a gown and some heels and coming out and having a good time with your girls, do that.

1 month ago | vancouver.citynews.ca | John Ackermann |Charles Brockman

The resignation of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff threats are believed to be the cause of a huge turnaround for the federal Liberal Party. According to Ipsos, if Canadians cast their ballots today, 38 per cent would support the Liberals, while 36 per cent would back the Conservatives. That's a major shift from just six weeks ago, when the Tories enjoyed a 26-point lead.

1 month ago | vancouver.citynews.ca | John Ackermann

Vancouver's Jewish Book Festival returned this weekend for its 40th year amid the backdrop of the fragile ceasefire in Gaza. Festival director Dana Camil Hewitt says, much like last year, security around the event has been stepped up as the tensions have only increased. "The war is not over, and the amount of threats and the level of antisemitism experienced here in Canada has reached incredible, unbelievable levels," Hewitt said.