News for Youse: Government workers strike, Lekstrom leaves, and interest rates remain stable

Government strike Approximately 27,000 workers are on a one-day strike at liquor stores, ICBC, and in government offices. For more information, go here.

Lekstrom leaves Peace River South MLA and Transportation Minister Blair Lekstrom has become the 17th member of the B.C. Liberal caucus to announce that he won't seek reelection in 2013.

Transit delays There were long lineups and more cars on the road this morning when SkyTrain was forced to operate on a single track between the 22nd Street Station and Metrotown. The problem was fixed before 7 a.m.

Huge earthquake The U.S. Geological Survey has reported a quake measuring 7.6 on the Richter scale near the coast of Costa Rica. More information is available here.

Quebec shooting One man is dead and another injured after a gunman burst into the Parti Québécois victory celebration in Montreal last night, causing security to rush Premier-elect Pauline Marois off the stage.

Charest loses seat Quebec premier Jean Charest will speak later today after losing his seat in Sherbrooke. He led his party to a better-than-expected showing, capturing 50 seats compared to 54 for the Parti Québécois.

Obama endorsers Last night at the Democratic convention in Charlotte, Michelle Obama, Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel, and actor Kal Penn all urged Americans to reelect Barack Obama, defending his values, his character, and his policies.

Interest rate stable The Bank of Canada has announced that it will maintain a one percent target for the overnight lending rate, though it may withdraw some of its monetary policy stimulus in response to the prospect of more inflation.

R.TL moving Management of regional testing lounge (R.TL) in Yaletown say the company will move to a new location this fall after shutting down its operation at 1130 Mainland Street.

UBC skatepark CBC Radio has reported that UBC and the University Neighbourhoods Association are creating a skatepark at UBC. It's expected to open later this year.

Community garden bust Police have shut down a marijuana grow-op in the Castlegar Community Garden. For details, go here.