Senate Appointments: The federal government says it will appoint new members to the Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments, keeping the board’s merit-based, non-binding role and naming François Rolland as chair along with other new federal and provincial/territorial representatives. Defence & Arctic Readiness: Canada is moving to expand military capacity and Arctic presence as relations with the U.S. sour, with officials pointing to sovereignty and readiness and a broader defence recalibration. Arctic Maritime Industry Push: Calian has launched an integrated Canadian Arctic Maritime Security Consortium to link industry, Indigenous groups and academia in support of evolving defence priorities. Wildfire Smoke Impacts: Environment Canada and partners report very poor air quality in parts of Ontario and the Great Lakes region as wildfire smoke spreads, prompting health warnings. Energy & Climate Policy: Alberta and the federal government have signed an agreement with oilsands producers to double oil production while advancing the Pathways carbon capture and storage project. Economy Watch: The Bank of Canada held its key rate steady at 2.25%, citing growing confidence in a rebound but warning inflation could stay above target. Public Safety: Police confirmed a corroded unexploded ordnance found in Coldstream, with the area cordoned off pending disposal. Community & Non-profits: Volunteers are being sought for trail work at Laurier Woods in North Bay, highlighting ongoing conservation efforts by a local non-profit.