Hour 3 of Ottawa Now for Fri. September 19th, 2025

For many Canadians, the pre-COVID norm of working 5 days in the office is coming out of hibernation. However, this time around, the way of the world looks extremely different. Everything costs more than it did in early-2020. Since Russia attacked Ukraine in 2022, inflation and gas prices have dominated the news cycle. And for countless Canadians, their paychecks haven’t been able to keep up. As we adjust to the old normal, but also the new normal, is a lifestyle change for the average Canadian an inevitable reality? Kristy Cameron digs deeper with financial educator Eduek Brooks in Hour 3. But first, it’s time to tackle today’s Question of the Day. Amid a testy trade war, not to mention an unpredictable economy, it’s not always easy to pack a school-healthy lunch. And as classes resume, questions are swirling around how much authority today’s teachers should have over a student’s daily intake. Unless it’s related to allergy risks that put neighbouring students in danger, many are asking teachers to ease off the gas pedal and give parents a break. Where do you stand on this dilemma? Send a message to the CFRA textboard, email ottawanow@cfra.com, or give us a ring.