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Ottawa Tourism expands VIP incentive program for visitors

By Dani-Elle Dubé

Posted Oct 24, 2021 07:53:00 PM.

Travellers near and far continue to get financial incentives to travel and explore Ottawa.

Through a VIP incentive program Ottawa Tourism has offered throughout 2021, anyone visiting a participating Ottawa attraction can get $50 a night toward their hotel room — and now Ottawa Tourism has announced that it will be extending that program.

While the program was originally set to end on December 31, Ottawa Tourism says the program will now extend to February 28, 2022.

The goal of the program is to encourage tour operators to bring more visitors to Canada’s capital as Ottawa’s tourism industry works toward recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are excited to work with our tour operator clients to enhance their existing itineraries — or to build new ones — in order to showcase what Ottawa has to offer for a diverse clientele,” Michael Crockatt, president and CEO of Ottawa Tourism, said in a statement. “Ottawa’s museums, sporting events and other attractions — not to mention our hotels — are ready to safely welcome back visitors.”

As long as a visitor pays admission to a participating Travel Trade attraction, they'll receive the $50 a night incentive applied to their hotel room. Hotels and attractions must be paid by the tour operator and proof of payment is needed for the funding.

There are no minimum room night requirements but travel must be completed by February 28, 2022.

To date, more than 20 tour companies hosting both domestic and international visitors have joined the program.

For more information, visit OttawaTourism.ca .

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• Ottawa Tourism Launches Incentive Program Aimed at Boosting Group Travel Recovery

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Breathe in the Great Outdoors

Ottawa Tourism has launched a program for tour operators to incentivize new bookings in Ottawa.

Group travel is on the upswing and now, through a new initiative for tour operators aimed at incentivizing new bookings in Ottawa, Ottawa Tourism is looking to play a part in the effort.

Upon registering for Ottawa VIP ("Visitor Inspiration Program"), tour operators receive a box of local gifts to share with tour participants, elevating the in-destination experience and showcasing more of Ottawa's local culture. The incentive program is paired with a $35 credit per-room night to be used on a qualified tour operator's next visit to Ottawa, further encouraging more travel trade business. Ottawa VIP, which officially launched on June 5, 2023, has been created as a multi-year incentive program, with the $35 credit being offered until December 1, 2023.

"Group travel is an important segment of Ottawa's tourism mix, and innovative ideas like Ottawa VIP will help us regain market share in this space as all destinations rebuild from the pandemic-years," said Michael Crockatt, President and CEO of Ottawa Tourism. "We know visitors are seeking personal connections to the destinations they visit, so our Travel Trade team is constantly looking for ways to elevate the Ottawa experience, show off our beautiful city, and foster relationships with operators that bring visitors back year after year."

Tour operators interested in taking part in this opportunity can register on the Ottawa VIP webpage by December 1, 2023 and may spend the $35/ room night credit at participating attractions or hotels by May 31, 2024, with credits rolling over to upcoming visits, with the ability to earn and use credits multiple times throughout the duration of the program. In addition to the credit, gifts for participants include either one small gift for each person or three to four medium gifts that can be raffled. All gifts are locally sourced such as chocolates, maple products, wellness soaps, locally-made Indigenous products and more.

"We are excited to participate in this program led by Ottawa Tourism, which lessens our overall cost to bring visitors to town, as well as creates a special opportunity to share local products with our participants," said Carole Carley, Director of Operations for Brightspark Travel. "In my mind, participation in this is a no-brainer. It benefits us, our guests, future guests and the Ottawa community!"

Learn more by visiting Ottawa Tourism .

Courtesy of Groups Today.

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Ottawa Launches ‘It’s On Us’ Campaign

July 31, 2020

Ottawa Tourism has launched a visitor incentive campaign called It’s On Us whereby visitors who book at least a two-night stay in Ottawa receive a $100 Visa Gift Card.

Rooms must be booked before Sept. 30, 2020 for stays before Dec. 31, 2020 at more than 30 participating hotels.

Visa Gift Cards are distributed upon check-in and are encouraged to be spent to enhance the visitor’s stay… for dinner, tickets to an attraction or tour, or souvenirs before returning home.

Michael Crockatt, president and CEO of Ottawa Tourism, explained that: “With more of our tourism businesses opening up with enhanced safety protocols, we’re seeing more people planning staycations in Ottawa.”

Crockatt added that: “If you’re staying in our hotels, let us cover the cost of a nice meal on a patio in the ByWard Market neighbourhood, or a boat cruise along the Rideau Canal, or a visit to the Diefenbunker!”

In terms of Ottawa-area attractions, the Canadian Museum of History and Canadian War Museum have recently reopened (Thursday to Sunday), with free indoor tours (reservations required) and free outdoor activities while the National Gallery of Canada offers free admission (Thursday to Sunday) for the first 25,000 guests.

The Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and Canada Science and Technology Museum reopen on Aug. 1, 8, and 14, respectively, and the Canadian Museum of Nature plans to reopen in September.

Outdoor activities such as cycling, paddling, whitewater rafting, hiking, and golf offer many opportunities for fun, while it’s possible to tour Ottawa with a focus on craft beer, cycling, river and canal cruises, culinary delights, historic sites, haunted walks, and more.

This promotion joins other initiatives by Ottawa Tourism to encourage both locals and visitors to explore Canada’s capital region, including:

• The #MyOttawa Pass, aimed at residents and which was expanded on Monday, July 27 to include deals and discounts from more than 75 area businesses, with the expiry date extended until Labour Day, Sept. 7
• A Rural Ottawa campaign to encourage the exploration of Ottawa’s rural regions, either as a day trip or on the way in or out of town
• A weekly emailer What’s Happening in the Ottawa Area that outlines what fun activities and attractions are available over the next week
• The Ottawa Unlocked webpage that amalgamates articles, itineraries, events, and other resources to plan the ultimate Ottawa staycation

Ottawa sees visitor spending of $2.2 billion in a typical year but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ottawa Tourism estimates a loss of more than $1.4 billion of that spend for 2020.

Encouraging spending in tourism businesses — by locals and visitors — means that the industry has a chance to recoup some of that deficit and restore some of the jobs that have been lost (more than 43,000 people are normally employed by the tourism industry in Ottawa).

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Where nations meet: 2024 International Indigenous Tourism Conference

From February 26 to 28, 2024, 1000 delegates gathered in Ottawa, which is situated on unceded Algonquin Anishinabeg Territory, for the 2024 International Indigenous Tourism Conference (IITC). IITC is the largest international Indigenous tourism conference in the world and is hosted by the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC).

Indigenous communities from Turtle Island (also known as North America and in some Indigenous communities is used to refer to Earth as a whole) and beyond met in downtown Ottawa’s Shaw Centre for an unforgettable three-day event. 

This year’s IITC theme was “Where Nations Meet,” a fitting nod to Ottawa's three rivers and the diversity of folks who arrived for the 2024 conference. The convergence of the Ottawa, Gatineau and Rideau Rivers has served as a gathering place for Indigenous communities for thousands of years — and this year, hundreds of international delegates from Colombia, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Finland and beyond connected in Ottawa.

The Shaw Centre, winner of “World’s Best Convention Centre” in 2020 by the International Association of Convention Centres, was the ideal place to host IITC. The space is dedicated to fostering an inclusive atmosphere for Indigenous events. Recognizing the cultural importance of traditions like smudging, their security team closely monitors fire panels to facilitate seamless smudging ceremonies. Their Event Services team also collaborates with event organizers to designate specific spaces for elders and drumming. Continuing their mission to honour Indigenous cultures, they recently partnered with Indigenous chefs for this conference, integrating traditional foods into their culinary offerings.

The space offers incredibly welcoming staff, flexible meeting spaces without columns and a 200-degree view of Canada’s capital. The building, situated in the heart of the downtown core, is also LEED Gold-certified, a certification from Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) that verifies the facility has enhanced efficiency and low carbon emissions. The beauty, accessibility and flexibility of the venue was the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories of authentic Indigenous experiences, knowledge-sharing and newfound friendships.

The week began with several engaging cultural tours. Delegates explored local Indigenous tourism firsthand with a complimentary ticket for an Indigenous tour. Delegates had a variety of options to choose from, including Indigenous Walks , a walk and talk through downtown Ottawa with an Indigenous lens and a Medicine Bag workshop at Makatew Workshops where delegates crafted a sacred traditional item.

This year’s welcome reception was hosted by Ottawa Tourism and brought to life through culinary storytelling at the Shaw Centre. The event, named Taste of Turtle Island, featured First Nations, Métis, Inuit, Indigenous American and Mexican chefs who crafted incredible plates alongside stunning entertainment such as hoop dancing and musical performances. Delegates were delighted with dishes such as a Three Sisters Taco, smoked elk with candied winter plums and elderberry syrup, sugar-dusted Bannock and more.

With a full day of listening and learning ahead, delegates enjoyed breakfast before the Grand Entry and Protocol Welcome, a ceremonial processional entrance used in many Indigenous ceremonies to begin events. ITAC’s keynote, Vision 2030 kicked off the schedule of sessions with an outline of their goals for the year, as well as an introduction to their strategy to become a world leader in Indigenous tourism by 2030.

A panel followed with national leaders discussing the Federal Tourism Growth Strategy, “Canada 365.” This strategy, which was announced in 2023, marks the first time Indigenous tourism was named a pillar. Other sessions included topics such as emergency preparedness in tourism and how to put reconciliation into action. Air Canada also hosted an Indigenous Youth Empowerment panel that was highly praised by attendees and featured Ottawa’s very own, Jayde Micah, co-owner of Beandigen Café, an Anishinaabe-owned and operated cafe, Indigenous art boutique and event space at Lansdowne Park .

The lively atmosphere continued during breaks and interludes between sessions also featured Indigenous cultural entertainment such as throat singing.

Throughout the conference, attendees could also visit the Artisan Marketplace to browse a variety of pieces crafted by Indigenous artisans. From paintings to beaded earrings to delicious pastries infused with maple, sea buckthorn and sweet clover, attendees were inspired by Indigenous talent just steps away from sessions.

The final day of the conference featured a hilariously engaging Keynote by Drew Hayden Taylor about Indigenous humour. Breakout sessions focused on topics such as cultural appreciation versus appropriation, best practices in advancing international Indigenous-led tourism and how to use modern media with traditional storytelling.

In the evening, folks stepped into the Shaw Centre’s Canada Hall to the bold beats of award-winning DJ Shubb for the Indigenous Tourism Awards & Gala . 

The closing event was a heartfelt opportunity to recognize industry trailblazers and celebrate Indigenous tourism excellence in Canada. Innovative businesses, dedicated tourism associations, epic entrepreneurs and awe-inspiring people were nominated across nine categories . The crowd was electric, encapsulating the spirited energy that remained throughout the three-day occasion. 

Through laughter, learning and listening, the 2024 International Indigenous Tourism Conference contributed to critical conversations about Indigenous perspectives and Indigenous tourism. By sharing stories and knowledge, the three-day agenda was an engaging event that is sure to enhance the visitor experience around the globe. 

Ottawa Tourism says miigwetch (“thank you” in Anishinabe) to local Indigenous tour operators, business owners, storytellers and visitors. Ottawa is honored to have learned more about the importance of Indigenous tourism in our community by hosting this event.

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Here are the 6 recipients of the 2024 Ottawa Valley Tourism Awards

The Ottawa Valley Tourist Association (OVTA) has announced six recipients of its 2024 awards during the annual tourism conference Tuesday at the myFM Centre in Renfrew, Ont.

Ron Moss, co-chair and active volunteer with the Ottawa Valley Cycling and Active Transportation Alliance received the Tourism Champion Award, the OVTA said in news release on Thursday.

Moss’s recognition comes after he spent hundreds of hours each year organizing group rides and cycling events, reads the release.

The OVTA describes Moss “as a driving force in promoting active travel around the Ottawa Valley.”

This year’s recipient of the Business / Organization of the Year Award went to Somewhere Inn Calabogie, which is a redesigned roadside motel, led by a passionate, inclusive and hardworking team, says the OVTA.

Meanwhile, the Event of the Year Award was given to the Pembroke Silver Stick Tournament, which “brings together over 130 minor hockey teams from across Ontario to Pembroke and the Ottawa Valley to experience Hockey Town Canada,” reads the release.

When it comes to the Sustainability Champion Award the OVTA says it was awarded to Anupaya Cabin Co. in Deep River.

The corporation “integrates sustainability into every facet of its operations, from the renovation and construction of cabins using locally-sourced, eco-friendly materials to the implementation of renewable energy sources,” reads the release.

The New Tourism Product Award was granted to Ottawa Valley Farm to Fork in Douglas, says the OVTA.

“This award set against the picturesque backdrop of a repurposed hay loft within a meticulously restored 1860 heritage barn, Ottawa Valley Farm to Fork’s event hall has become a beacon for local wanderers in search of a distinctive evening experience,” reads the release.

The Tourism Marketing Award was granted to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization for their “locally inspired” video series and marketing campaign featuring cycle tourism in the Ottawa Valley.

The OVTA represents over 250 tourism businesses, comprising of attractions and outfitters, accommodation, food, beverage and retail establishments, artists and galleries, municipalities and community organizations.

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April 16, 2024 , Filed Under: Uncategorized

Canada Incentive Trips: Adding the Wow Factor

Incentive trips are a way for companies to acknowledge and appreciate their team’s hard work and dedication. As well as treating staff members, it cements bonds, which helps with company loyalty. A lot. Canada is a popular destination for incentive trips – for companies from across the world and from the United States, as it promises something a little different but is easy to get to. If you’re planning an incentive trip to Canada, how can you add a little ‘wow factor’ to make sure the trip is genuinely exceptional? Here are some ideas.

Canada’s vast wilderness and cosmopolitan cities already sets the right tone for an incentive trip. And if you need to get a little work done too, there are plenty of plush hotel boardrooms and coworking spaces to help. But let’s face it, the main priority of an incentive trip is not to work. It’s to foster deeper connections among your team so they are ultimately more inspired to do a great job for your company. So what could you do to transform a mediocre incentive trip to Canada into a totally amazing experience? Here’s some inspiration.

A Room With A View To The Game: Toronto’s Baseball Stadium Hotels

When planning your incentive trip to Toronto, consider booking accommodation that offers more than just a comfortable night’s sleep. Sure, your employees will want great Wi-Fi, a good shower and breakfast in the morning (business travelers actually want the simple things done well!) but there is more to an incentive trip than this. Opt for hotels that provide rooms with interior windows facing the Rogers Centre , home of the Toronto Blue Jays. The festive atmosphere among your team members as they witness a live baseball game from the comfort of their hotel room will be electrifying! This unique feature is not just about luxury; it’s about creating an unforgettable experience that combines the excitement of the sport with the relaxation of upscale amenities. Such an extraordinary stay in Toronto will invigorate your team’s spirits and strengthen their camaraderie. It’s a great way to start an incentive trip, and if your team is tired from traveling, they don’t need to go far on the first day to have a good time.

Niagara Falls and Beyond: Uncharted Adventures Await

Visiting Niagara Falls is practically a rite of passage when exploring Canada on an incentive trip. It’s a universal draw that leaves every observer in awe. You’ll totally understand why it’s one of the most famous waterfalls in the world, AND why people say the Canadian side is better. You definitely can’t ignore Niagara Falls on an incentive trip to Canada – and nor should you, just because it’s a famous tourist hotspot. A charter bus rental from Toronto is really easy too. But to elevate the experience for your team, consider venturing beyond the usual tourist spots to discover some of the area’s lesser known gems. Embark on a private boat tour that takes you as close as possible to the thundering waters, offering a perspective few get to witness. Then, move away from the crowds to explore the surrounding region’s vineyards for a wine tasting session that highlights the best of Ontario’s wine country. These lesser-known activities will not only complement the iconic visit to the falls but also provide a more intimate, personalized experience, making your incentive trip memorably distinct.

Into the Wild: Hiking, Camping, and Brainstorming in Canada’s Untouched Wilderness

If you think your team would enjoy a touch of adventure, Canada’s stunning wilderness offers the perfect backdrop. Consider organizing a retreat that includes hiking through breathtaking landscapes or camping under the vast Canadian sky. These activities not only challenge and build the team’s physical stamina but also their ability to work together in different settings. Imagine a brainstorming session seated around a campfire, surrounded by the tranquility of nature. This unique setting can stimulate creative thinking, encourage open communication, and foster a strong sense of togetherness. Being in the great outdoors, away from the distractions of daily life, allows team members to focus on strategic planning and creative projects with a fresh perspective. Conquering a challenging trail might be tempting for your team, but it doesn’t all have to involve physical stamina. Cooking together at the campsite can be just as rewarding, and these experiences can significantly strengthen team bonds. You can have an experience like this in almost any region in Canada. For the cooler months of the year, you’ll need to find some warming cabins or a ranch to base yourselves, unless you want to push your team’s resolve to new limits through freezing nighttime temperatures!

Giving Back Together: Volunteering Opportunities in Canada

Volunteering is something that is gaining traction in modern life. Becoming part of something bigger than yourself helps with your connectedness to the world around you. It also boosts mental health and gives you a much needed push outside your comfort zone from time to time. That’s why incorporating volunteering activities into your incentive trip can massively impact your team’s experience and leave a lasting impression. Canada offers lots of community service projects. You might choose to spend a day at a local food bank in one of Canada’s major cities, helping to sort and distribute food to those in need. Getting stuck into environmental conservation efforts, such as tree planting or cleanup projects in one of the country’s beautiful national parks, can offer an outdoor team-building experience that also benefits the planet. Win-win! These volunteering opportunities will enrich your team’s incentive trip with meaningful experiences and spark a sense of accomplishment and togetherness.

Crafting an incentive trip to Canada that is full of adventure and new experiences takes a little planning and creativity. But with these ideas, you can transform a standard trip into an extraordinary one that your team will remember for years to come. If you get the itinerary just right, your employees won’t believe their luck that they’re on a work-sponsored trip.

The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes —  Marcel Proust

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2024 federal budget's key takeaways: Housing and carbon rebates, students and sin taxes

Budget sees nearly $53b in new spending over the next 5 years.

What's in the new federal budget?

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Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland today tabled a 400-page-plus budget her government is pitching as a balm for anxious millennials and Generation Z.

The budget proposes $52.9 billion in new spending over five years, including $8.5 billion in new spending for housing. To offset some of that new spending, Ottawa is pitching policy changes to bring in new revenue.

Here are some of the notable funding initiatives and legislative commitments in budget 2024.

Ottawa unloading unused offices to meet housing targets

One of the biggest pillars of the budget is its housing commitments. Before releasing the budget, the government laid out what it's calling Canada's Housing Plan — a pledge to "unlock" nearly 3.9 million homes by 2031.

The government says two million of those would be net new homes and it believes it can contribute to more than half of them. 

It plans to do that by:

• Converting underused federal offices into homes. The budget promises $1.1 billion over ten years to transform 50 per cent of the federal office portfolio into housing.
• Building homes on Canada Post properties. The government says the 1,700-plus Canada Post offices across the country can be used to build new homes while maintaining postal services. The federal government says it's assessing six Canada Post properties in Quebec, Alberta and British Columbia for development potential "as a start."
• Rethinking National Defence properties. The government is promising to look at redeveloping properties and buildings on National Defence lands for military and civilian use.
• Building apartments. Ottawa is pledging a $15 billion top-up to the Apartment Construction Loan Program, which says it will build 30,000 new homes across Canada.

Taxing vacant land?

As part of its push on housing, the federal government also says it's looking at vacant land that could be used to build homes.

It's not yet committing to new measures but the budget says the government will consider introducing a new tax on residentially zoned vacant land. 

• Freeland's new federal budget hikes taxes on the rich to cover billions in new spending
• Are you renting with no plans to buy? Here's what the federal budget has for you

The government said it plans to launch consultations on the measure later this year.

Help for students 

There's also something in the budget for students hunting for housing.

The government says it will update the formula used by the Canada Student Financial Assistance Program to calculate housing costs when determining financial need, to better reflect the cost of housing in the current climate.

The government estimates this could deliver more aid for rent to approximately 79,000 students each year, at an estimated cost of $154.6 million over five years.

• Updated Federal budget's funding boost for defence spread out over multiple years
• Liberals pledge $9B in new money for Indigenous communities in 2024 budget

The government is also promising to extend increased student grants and interest-free loans, at an estimated total cost of $1.1 billion this year.

Increase in taxes on capital gains

To help cover some of its multi-billion dollar commitments, the government is proposing a tax hike on capital gains — the profit individuals make when assets like stocks and second properties are sold.

The government is proposing an increase in the taxable portion of capital gains, up from the current 50 per cent to two thirds for annual capital gains over $250,000. 

New investment to lead 'housing revolution in Canada,' Freeland says

Freeland said the change would impact the wealthiest 0.1 per cent.

There's still some protection for small businesses. There's been a lifetime capital gains exemption which allows Canadians to exempt up to $1,016,836 in capital gains tax-free on the sale of small business shares and farming and fishing property. This June the tax-free limit will be increased to $1.25 million and will continue to be indexed to inflation thereafter, according to the budget.

The federal government estimates this could bring in more than $19 billion over five years, although some analysts are not convinced.

Disability benefit amounts to $200 per month 

Parliament last year passed the Canada Disability Benefit Act, which promised to send a direct benefit to low-income, working-age people with disabilities. 

Budget 2024 proposes funding of $6.1 billion over six years, beginning this fiscal year, and $1.4 billion per year ongoing, for a new Canada Disability Benefit.

Advocates had been hoping for something along the lines of $1,000 per month per person . They'll be disappointed.

According to the budget document, the maximum benefit will amount to $2,400 per year for low income individuals with disabilities between the ages of 18 and 64 — about $200 a month.

• Federal government plans to lease public lands for construction through new housing strategy
• Alberta premier says she's prepared to take Ottawa to court over housing deals

The government said it plans for the Canada Disability Benefit Act to come into force in June 2024 and for payments to start in July 2025.

Carbon rebate for small businesses coming 

The federal government has heard an earful from small business advocates who accuse it of reneging on a promise to return a portion of carbon pricing revenues to small businesses to mitigate the tax's economic costs.

• What's behind the carbon tax, and does it work?
• Federal government scales back carbon tax rebates for small businesses

The budget proposes to return fuel charge proceeds from 2019-20 through 2023-24 to an estimated 600,000 businesses with 499 or fewer employees through a new refundable tax credit.

The government said this would deliver $2.5 billion directly to Canada's small- and medium-sized businesses.

Darts and vape pods will cost more 

Pitching it as a measure to cut the number of people smoking and vaping, the Liberals are promising to raise revenues on tobacco and smoking products.

• Just Asking  wants to know:   What questions do you have about quitting smoking or vaping? Do you think sin taxes will encourage smoking cessation?  Fill out the details on  this form  and send us your questions ahead of our show on April 20.

Starting Wednesday, the total tobacco excise duty will be $5.49 per carton. The government estimates this could increase federal revenue by $1.36 billion over five years starting in 2024-25.

The budget also proposes to increase the vaping excise duty rates by 12 per cent effective July 1. That means an increase of 12 to 24 cents per pod, depending on where you live. 

• 'Stay the hell away from our kids': Health minister vows to restrict nicotine pouches — but how?

Ottawa hopes this increase in sin taxes will bring in $310 million over five years, starting in 2024-25.

More money for CBC 

Heritage Minister Pascale St-Onge has mused about redefining the role of the public broadcaster before the next federal election . But before that happens, CBC/Radio-Canada is getting a top-up this year. 

The budget promises $42 million more in 2024-25 for CBC/Radio-Canada for "news and entertainment programming." CBC/Radio-Canada received about $1.3 billion in total federal funding last year.

The government says it's doing this to ensure that Canadians across the country, including rural, remote, Indigenous and minority language communities, have access to independent journalism and entertainment.

Last year, the CBC announced a financial shortfall, cut 141 employees and eliminated 205 vacant positions. In a statement issued Tuesday, CBC spokesperson Leon Mar said the new funding means the corporation can balance its budget "without significant additional reductions this year."

Boost for Canada's spy agency 

As the government takes heat over how it has handled the threat of foreign election interference, it's promising more money to bolster its spy service.

The Canadian Security Intelligence Service is in line to receive $655.7 million over eight years, starting this fiscal year, to enhance its intelligence capabilities and its presence in Toronto.

• CSIS chief defends his spies' work after PM casts doubt on reliability of agency's reports
• Trudeau says it's his job to question CSIS intelligence, call out 'contradictions'

The budget also promises to guarantee up to $5 billion in loans for Indigenous communities to participate in natural resource development and energy projects in their territories.

These loans would be provided by financial institutions or other lenders and guaranteed by the federal government, meaning Indigenous borrowers who opt in could benefit from lower interest rates, the budget says. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Catharine Tunney is a reporter with CBC's Parliament Hill bureau, where she covers national security and the RCMP. She worked previously for CBC in Nova Scotia. You can reach her at [email protected]

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Bruins lose to Ottawa, will face Toronto in…

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Bruins lose to ottawa, will face toronto in first round of playoffs, b’s kick away chance to win atlantic division.

If the Bruins were looking to lower expectations heading into the playoffs, they did a good job of it the last two nights.

With the Atlantic Division title on the line for the second straight night, the Bruins again showed up to the rink with little pace and purpose early and paid the price for it on the scoreboard.

The B’s, who were shut out in Washington on Monday, fell to the Ottawa Senators, 3-1, on Tuesday at the Garden in the final regular season game of the year. They scored one goal in their final six periods of the regular season and for that reason, couple with the Florida Panthers’ win over the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday, the B’s finished in second place in the division.

That has earned them a date with the Leafs in the first round, which is expected to start on Saturday at the Garden. The B’s swept the four-game season series, and the B’s have beaten the Leafs in three Game 7s on Garden ice in the past 11 years. But none of that matters now. The Leafs have a potent offense (3.65 goals per game, second in the league) that cannot be overlooked.

On Tuesday, after giving the Sens a 2-0 lead in the second period, the B’s outshot Ottawa 23-2 in the third but could manage only one Pavel Zacha power-play goal.

With the B’s on a late power play, they pulled goalie Linus Ullmark to make it a 6-on-4 but David Pastrnak’s bad cross-ice pass was picked off by Artem Zub, who deposited into the empty net to end it.

With the playoffs finally here and the regular season done, coach Jim Montgomery chose to focus on the urgency that was evident late, not the lack of it early on Tuesday.

“Disappointed in it, but I do like that fact that we got better every period. Our third period was a good brand of hockey, something to be confident about going into our preparation for playoffs,” said Montgomery.

Montgomery and the players did not yet know who their first round opponent was going to be when they met the media after the game. Captain Brad Marchand (minus-3) acknowledged the team showed up two periods too late, but he was already focusing forward.

“This game is done and over with, regardless of how we played in any of the periods,” said Marchand. “Come payoff time, there’s so much excitement and adrenaline and guys are so dialed in. It would have been nice if we played better tonight but at the end of the day, we have all week to prepare and we’ll be excited to get going.”

One of the big questions moving forward is who will get the starter’s net in Game 1. Ullmark has been very good down since the trade deadline, but Jeremy Swayman posted two big wins over Toronto in their last two contests. Chances are, both will see some time.

“It’s a whole different beast. There’s a lot emotions,” said Ullmark, who like Swayman is still looking for his first series win. “Everything becomes more fun, so I’m very excited about what’s to come.”

Regarding Tuesday’s missed opportunity, the first period was scoreless, which was a good thing for the Bruins, who weren’t very good in the opening 20 minutes. The playing-out-the-string Senators held a 11-3 shot advantage, thanks in part to a pair of penalties from Marchand. Fortunately for the B’s, Ullmark was on top of his game early to send the game into the first intermission at 0-0. The only Bruin highlights were a post hit by Zacha and a thunderous Andrew Peeke hit on Thomas Chabot.

The B’s weren’t much better to start the second and, this time, Ullmark couldn’t bail them out as he gave up a pair of goals in 51 seconds midway through the period.

First, the B’s gave up an odd-man situation, with Erik Brannstrom feeding Jiri Smejkal on the left wing and Smejkal’s low wrister tickled through Ullmark’s pads and just over the line. It was originally waved off but a quick review showed that the puck did indeed cross the line by a couple of inches.

Then, at 10:54, defenseman Jakob Chychrun, pinching down from the left point, took a feed from Drake Batherson and, from about the same spot from where Smejkal scored, beat Ullmark.

With that, the B’s started to spend a little more time in the Ottawa zone and test goalie Anton Forsberg. But for the fifth straight period of hockey, the B’s put up a goose egg. Beyond that, they also hadn’t earned a power play in that time, which might have been more telling than the lack of goals.

As one might expect, the B’s dominated the third period and finally got a power play at 12:03. And at 12:44, the B’s got on the board. Kevin Shattenkirk, now manning the first power-play unit, threw a puck on net that was blocked in front but Zacha swooped in and beat Forsberg on the backhander.

Then at 13:29, Trent Frederic picked a loose puck out of Forsberg’s glove after the whistle, creating a scrum that led to a 4-on-4. With the open ice, Jake DeBrusk fed Charlie McAvoy on a 2-on-1 but Forsberg absolutely stoned him at 15:26.

But with 3:31 left in regulation, the B’s got another power play on a Shane Pinto hook and pulled Ullmark to make it a 6-on-4. But Pastrnak made an egregious cross-ice pass attempt that was picked off Zub and deposited into the empty. Game over.

Now the real games begin.

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U.S. issues travel warning for Israel with Iran attack believed to be imminent and fear Gaza war could spread

By Debora Patta , Tucker Reals

Updated on: April 13, 2024 / 5:25 PM EDT / CBS News

Update: Iran launched drone attacks against Israel on Saturday. Read CBS News'  latest coverage here .

Tel Aviv  — Israel is bracing for a worst-case scenario that U.S. officials believe could materialize within just hours — the possibility of a direct attack on Israeli soil by Iran in retaliation for a strike almost two weeks ago that killed seven Iranian military officers. Iran has vowed to take revenge for Israel killing its commanders, who were hit by an April 1 strike on the Iranian embassy in Syria's capital.

Two U.S. officials told CBS News that a major Iranian attack against Israel was expected as soon as Friday, possibly to include more than 100 drones and dozens of missiles aimed at military targets inside the country. Sources have told CBS News the retaliation could include attacks carried out both by Iranian forces, and proxy groups around the region that it has been funneling additional arms to for weeks.  

The officials said it would be challenging for the Israelis to defend against an attack of that magnitude, and while they held out the possibility that the Iranians could opt for a smaller-scale attack to avoid a dramatic escalation, their retaliation was believed to be imminent. 

Asked Friday how imminent he believes an attack is, President Biden responded, "I don't want to get into secure information, but my expectation is sooner than later." The president urged Iran not to move forward, saying his message to Tehran was: "Don't."

Tehran has not indicated publicly how or when it will return fire, so it's unclear how far Iran's leaders will go. If they decide to carry out a direct attack on Israel, there's fear it could blow Israel's ongoing war against Iranian ally Hamas up into a much wider regional conflict.

With the Iranian retaliation expected at any time, the U.S. State Department on Thursday warned Americans in Israel not to travel outside major cities, which are better protected from incoming rocket fire by the country's Iron Dome missile defense system. The latest guidance noted that travel by U.S. government employees in Israel could be further restricted with little notice as things develop in the tinderbox region.

"Whoever harms us, we will harm them," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed Thursday as he visited troops at an Israel Defense Forces airbase. "We are prepared … both defensively and offensively."

On Saturday, all U.S. embassies in the Middle East were put on high alert and required to hold emergency action committee meetings. Diplomats in Lebanon and Israel were specifically told not to travel to certain areas within those countries.

Sima Shine, a security expert and former official with Israel's national intelligence agency Mossad, told CBS News it was a dangerous moment for the region, and the "most worried" she has been. She said anxiety over an all-out war was likely just as high "on both sides, in Israel and in Iran."

If Iran does choose to strike Israel directly, it could involve a complex missile and drone attack similar to the one Iranian forces launched against a Saudi oil facility in 2019 .

"They will try to do it on the military or some military asset," Shine predicted. "But the question will be the damage. If there would be many injured people, killed or injured … I think it has the potential for a huge escalation."

Shine stressed, however, that she still believes neither side actually wants a regional conflict.

U.S. "really trying to avoid war"

The U.S. sent a senior general to Israel this week to coordinate with the close American ally on any response it might make to an Iranian attack. Speaking Friday on "CBS Mornings," America's top military officer said, "we're really trying to avoid war."

"This is part of the dialogue that I have with my counterparts within the region, to include the Israeli chief of defense, who I talked to yesterday," said Joint Chiefs chairman Gen. Charles Q. Brown, Jr., adding that the U.S. military was "doing things not only to prevent a war, but at the same time, one of my primary things is to make sure all the forces in the region are protected."

"My role, as the chairman of the Joint Chiefs, is to plan and prepare," Brown said. "That's one thing we do very well."

Brown's Israeli counterpart, Chief of the General Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, "completed a comprehensive situational assessment on the readiness of the IDF for all scenarios," Israel's military said Friday. 

"The IDF is very strongly prepared, both offensively and defensively, against any threat," Halevi was quoted as saying in the statement. "The IDF continues to monitor closely what is happening in Iran and different arenas, constantly preparing to deal with existing and potential threats in coordination with the United States Armed Forces." 

The IDF said the visiting U.S. general, Central Command chief Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, was taking part in the IDF's situational assessment.

The dilemma for Iran, said Israeli expert Shine, is to figure out how to deliver its promised response to Israel's attack in Syria, but in a way that does not lead to further escalation. Likewise, Shine said Israel could choose to show restraint when it responds to whatever Iran eventually does.

If either side gets the balance wrong, the consequences for the region, and even the world, could be dire.

Weijia Jiang, David Martin, Margaret Brennan and Olivia Gazis contributed reporting.

• Middle East
• Benjamin Neta​nyahu

Debora Patta is a CBS News foreign correspondent based in Johannesburg. Since joining CBS News in 2013, she has reported on major stories across Africa, the Middle East and Europe. Edward R. Murrow and Scripps Howard awards are among the many accolades Patta has received for her work.

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