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Costco Policy Update: Executive Members Get Early Access

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Costco’s New Shopping Policy Begins Monday

Costco’s shopping policy officially changes on Monday, giving Executive Members exclusive early access. Previously, the company allowed Executive Members to shop from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., while regular members waited until after 10 a.m. during weekdays. That grace period is now ending.

Early Access for Executive Members

Since June, Costco experimented with letting Executive Members enter stores an hour earlier than standard members. The trial period was not strictly enforced, but now the retailer confirms the new policy will be fully implemented on Labor Day.

Reactions From Regular Customers

Not all shoppers are thrilled. Some regular members feel the new policy favors higher-paying Executive Members and alienates those with standard memberships. Social media discussions show a mix of frustration and understanding, highlighting a divide between membership tiers.

What This Means for Shoppers

Regular members will need to adjust their shopping routines, especially during busy mornings. Costco emphasizes that the change aims to reward loyal Executive Members, who pay higher annual fees. Shoppers may notice slightly less crowding during early hours, which the company hopes will enhance the experience for premium members.

Bottom Line

Costco’s new policy officially starts Monday, giving Executive Members priority entry. Regular members will need to plan visits accordingly or adjust to later shopping hours.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire Now for the latest retail updates and membership news.

iPhone 17 Release: Upgrade or Fix Your Current Device

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iPhone 17 Launch Sparks Upgrade Dilemma

Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 release has many users wondering whether to upgrade or simply fix their current iPhone. With the keynote scheduled for Sept. 9, Apple is expected to reveal its newest features, potentially including a slimmer design, camera improvements, and iOS 26. Waiting a few weeks could let you choose between the latest device or discounted previous models.

What to Expect From the iPhone 17

The iPhone 17 may bring camera enhancements, new color options, and a more compact design to compete with devices like Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Edge. Apple is also set to launch iOS 26, featuring the company’s biggest software redesign in over a decade. While rumors suggest only modest upgrades, new functionality like improved processing and camera tools could entice early adopters.

Should You Wait or Upgrade Now?

Historically, iPhone updates have been incremental. If your current iPhone works well, waiting is wise. Buying a new iPhone 16 now might mean paying full price for a model that will soon be outdated. Waiting could also unlock better trade-in deals or carrier promotions once the iPhone 17 arrives.

Even if changes seem minor, a newer model could offer long-term value. Meanwhile, repairing a slow device or replacing a broken screen can make your current iPhone feel nearly new without spending hundreds of dollars.

Tariffs and Price Considerations

Potential tariffs could affect iPhone 17 prices. Recent statements suggest Apple might pay a 25% tariff on iPhones made outside the U.S., which could push retail prices higher. Additionally, analysts note that Apple hasn’t increased iPhone prices in five years, so a natural price adjustment may also occur.

Best Timing to Buy

Fall remains the most strategic time to purchase. Apple’s new releases and subsequent promotions often provide discounts on older models. Upgrading is most worthwhile if your phone is more than two generations old, ensuring access to features like Apple Intelligence and enhanced software.

Bottom Line

If your iPhone still works, repairing or holding off a few weeks could save money. However, for those eager for the newest iPhone 17 features, waiting ensures you get the latest technology and potential deals.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire Now for the latest updates on Apple’s fall launch.

New Tourist Train Routes Connect Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan

New Tourist Train Routes Connect Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan

Kazakhstan-Uzbekistan tourism gets a major boost this fall as three new tourist train routes launch, connecting key cities in both countries. The Kazakh Tourism national company announced on Aug. 28 that the programs aim to strengthen cultural ties and encourage cross-border travel.

Route Details and Departure Dates

All three routes, lasting five to seven days, depart from Almaty and feature guided excursions, modern train accommodations, partial meal plans, and transport services.

  • Route 1 – Khan-Turan Travel: Departs Sept. 21, covering Almaty, Turkistan, Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara, with optional stops in Taraz and Shymkent.

  • Route 2 – Turan Kazakhstan Travel: Departs Sept. 26, crossing Samarkand, Bukhara, Tashkent, Turkistan, and returning to Almaty.

  • Route 3 – Skyway: Departs Sept. 30, connecting Almaty, Turkistan, Samarkand, Bukhara, Tashkent, and back to Almaty.

Cultural Exchange and Tourism Development

Organizers emphasize that these routes will promote regional tourism while showcasing the shared historical and cultural heritage of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. Travelers can explore architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and traditional arts along each route.

Tour operators have already begun selling packages, catering to both domestic and international tourists. This initiative reflects growing efforts to expand the Central Asian tourism network and encourage sustainable travel experiences.

How Travelers Can Participate

Tourists interested in the journeys can book packages directly through the respective travel agencies. Each itinerary balances scenic rail travel with immersive cultural activities, ensuring a memorable cross-border experience.

The program also aims to foster greater collaboration between tourism boards and local communities, strengthening economic opportunities along the train corridors.

These new routes mark a significant step for Kazakhstan-Uzbekistan tourism, inviting travelers to explore rich history and vibrant culture.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire Now for more travel and tourism updates.

Canada’s Best Culinary Festivals to Taste in 2025

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Discover Canada’s top culinary festivals in 2025— from lobster feasts to gourmet food fairs, explore flavors that bring communities together.

Canada’s Culinary Festivals: A Feast for Every Food Lover

Food in Canada is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of culture, tradition, and community. Across the country, regional culinary festivals bring together chefs, farmers, and food lovers to showcase the very best flavors Canada has to offer. Whether it’s seafood by the Atlantic, maple treats in Quebec, or multicultural street food in Toronto, these events highlight the nation’s diverse palate.

Lobster and Seafood Festivals in the Maritimes

Atlantic Canada is famous for its fresh seafood, and summer festivals put it on full display. The Shediac Lobster Festival in New Brunswick is a long-running favorite, offering lobster boils, culinary competitions, and waterfront entertainment. Nova Scotia’s seafood celebrations also draw visitors eager to enjoy chowders, mussels, and scallops fresh from the ocean.

Maple and Gourmet Delights in Quebec

Quebec’s culinary identity shines through events like Montréal en Lumière, which combines fine dining with world-class entertainment. In spring, maple festivals across the province attract crowds to sugar shacks, where families enjoy syrup-soaked pancakes, taffy on snow, and traditional Quebecois fare. These gatherings celebrate the province’s deep connection to maple syrup—the heart of its culinary heritage.

Multicultural Flavors in Ontario

Ontario’s diverse food scene is best experienced at festivals that celebrate global flavors. Events such as TD JerkFest in Toronto showcase Caribbean culture through spicy jerk chicken, reggae music, and community spirit. The Toronto Food Truck Festival, meanwhile, brings together innovative street food from dozens of cuisines, reflecting the multicultural heartbeat of Canada’s largest city.

Prairie and Northern Traditions

From Alberta’s beef festivals to Manitoba’s RAW:almond pop-up dining on a frozen river, Canada’s prairies and northern regions bring their own creativity to the table. These gatherings highlight locally sourced ingredients, Indigenous traditions, and bold culinary experimentation that connects communities in unexpected ways.

Why Culinary Festivals Matter

Beyond the food, these festivals foster community pride, tourism, and cultural exchange. They allow Canadians and visitors alike to savor regional specialties while supporting local farmers, fishers, and chefs. For travelers, these festivals are not just about tasting dishes—they are about experiencing Canada’s identity through its food.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Niagara-on-the-Lake Garden Tour Welcomes Over 900 Visitors

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Niagara-on-the-Lake Garden Tour Attracts Record Crowds

The Niagara Garden Tour 2025 and Niagara-on-the-Lake tourism shined this summer as the event welcomed over 900 visitors to explore the town’s stunning gardens. Hosted by the NOTL Horticultural Society, the tour featured nine beautifully curated gardens, along with guided visits at Apple Hill Apothecary, McFarland House, and The Pumphouse Arts Centre.

Attendees shared overwhelmingly positive feedback, giving an average rating of 8.7 out of 10 for garden variety and quality, and a 9.1 rating for recommending the event to others.

Volunteers and Hosts Drive Success

The tour’s record-breaking success was powered by an exceptional team of volunteers, from greeters to garden sitters, along with the generosity of garden owners. Ninety-nine percent of visitors noted that volunteers made their experience easier and more enjoyable.

“Our volunteers are the heart of this event,” said Susan Jurbala, co-chair of the Garden Tour Committee. “Their passion and dedication created an unforgettable experience for every guest.”

Time and again, attendees praised the welcoming, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic volunteers, who brought each garden to life.

Strong Ticket Sales and Tourism Impact

Ticket sales reached an all-time high with 905 sold, marking the most successful Garden Tour yet. Of those, 64% were first-time visitors, and 94% came from outside Niagara-on-the-Lake, demonstrating the event’s significance for local tourism.

The Garden Tour not only showcased remarkable horticulture but also generated funds supporting the Society’s community projects, scholarships, and educational programs.

Looking Forward to 2026

“This tour is about more than beautiful gardens—it’s about connections, learning, and community,” said Sandra Stokes, co-chair of the Garden Tour Committee. “Most of the proceeds from this record year return directly to the community we serve.”

The Society invites homeowners to consider opening their gardens for the 2026 tour, regardless of size, style, or theme. Each garden tells a story—from cottage plots to native plant havens—and can inspire visitors in unique ways.

The NOTL Horticultural Society thanks volunteers, homeowners, and sponsors whose support ensures the Garden Tour continues to thrive.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire Now for more updates on local events and tourism highlights.

Grow, Sip, Repeat: Herbal Drinks at Home

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Discover the garden-to-table trend in Canada with refreshing herbal drinks, homegrown flavors, and wellness benefits for every season.

Fresh From Garden: Herbal Drinks Canadians Love

The Rise of Garden-to-Table Living in Canada

Across Canada, more households are embracing garden-to-table lifestyles. From backyard plots in Vancouver to balcony gardens in Toronto, Canadians are reconnecting with the joy of growing food at home. This trend goes beyond fresh vegetables—it’s fueling a love for herbal drinks made with mint, basil, lavender, and chamomile straight from the garden.

Why Herbal Drinks Are Making a Comeback

Herbal infusions are gaining popularity for their health benefits and natural flavors. Unlike sugary store-bought beverages, herbal teas and infused waters are caffeine-free, nutrient-rich, and easy to customize. Canadians are also drawn to their sustainability, cutting down on packaging waste while enjoying fresher alternatives.

Easy-to-Grow Herbs for Every Canadian Garden

Whether you live in a downtown condo or a suburban home, certain herbs thrive in Canadian climates:

  • Mint: Hardy and refreshing, perfect for summer coolers.
  • Chamomile: Known for calming teas, easy to grow in small pots.
  • Basil: Adds flavor to both meals and infused drinks.
  • Lavender: Aromatic and soothing, ideal for evening teas.

With minimal effort, even novice gardeners can grow herbs year-round using windowsill planters or indoor hydroponics.

Creative Herbal Drink Ideas at Home

Garden-fresh herbs can transform everyday beverages into something special:

  • Mint Lemon Cooler: A zesty blend of mint leaves, lemon juice, and sparkling water.
  • Chamomile Sleep Tea: Brewed fresh for relaxation before bedtime.
  • Lavender Honey Latte: A fragrant twist on the classic café drink.
  • Basil-Infused Iced Tea: Refreshing and perfect for summer gatherings.

These recipes are simple, customizable, and celebrate Canada’s growing love for DIY wellness drinks.

The Wellness Connection Canadians Value

Herbal drinks align with the broader Canadian focus on well-being. They promote hydration, relaxation, and gut health without artificial additives. Combined with the mindfulness of growing your own herbs, they create a holistic lifestyle trend that bridges sustainability with self-care.

Final Sip: From Garden to Glass

The garden-to-table movement in Canada is reshaping the way people eat and drink. Herbal beverages are at the heart of this shift—easy to prepare, nourishing, and deeply connected to the joy of homegrown living. For Canadians seeking freshness and wellness, the best drinks truly start in the garden.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Corn Moon 2025: Full Moon and Blood Moon Eclipse Guide

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Corn Moon 2025 Rises Across Northern Hemisphere

September’s Corn Moon and a partial blood moon eclipse will captivate skywatchers this week. The Northern Hemisphere’s final full moon of summer occurs on Sunday, Sept. 7, reaching full phase at 2:10 p.m. EDT (18:10 UTC). However, the best viewing happens later at moonrise in the east at dusk, when the glowing lunar disk first appears above the horizon.

This September, the full moon is called the Corn Moon rather than the Harvest Moon. Normally, the moon closest to the autumn equinox is the Harvest Moon, which in 2025 will occur in October, rising on the 6th. Time and Date notes that this shift happens approximately every three years.

Other Names and Cultural Significance

The Corn Moon carries several alternative names, including Wine Moon, Song Moon, and Barley Moon. Among the Anishinaabeg people, it is called Wabaabagaa Giizis, meaning the “Changing Leaves Moon.” These names reflect seasonal transitions and cultural connections to the lunar calendar.

Blood Moon Lunar Eclipse Visible in Parts of the World

For observers in Australia, Asia, Africa, and parts of Europe, the Corn Moon coincides with a total lunar eclipse, creating a spectacular blood moon effect. This eclipse lasts 82 minutes, the longest since November 8, 2022. It mirrors the March 14, 2025 eclipse in North America, which lasted 65 minutes, though this September eclipse occurs before moonrise in North America, making it invisible there.

How to Observe the Corn Moon

The full moon can be enjoyed without any optical tools, but using binoculars or backyard telescopes at moonrise enhances lunar surface details. Be mindful that the moon’s glare intensifies as it rises, which can make direct viewing challenging.

On Monday, Sept. 8, stargazers can spot the waning gibbous moon near Saturn, the ringed planet appearing especially bright as it nears its annual opposition on Sept. 20, when it is closest to Earth.

Looking Ahead: October Harvest Moon

After the Corn Moon, the next full moon will be the Harvest Moon, visible on Monday, Oct. 6. Both lunar events provide excellent opportunities for casual stargazing and astrophotography.

Catch the Corn Moon and blood moon eclipse this week for a memorable celestial display. Stay tuned to Maple Wire Now for the next skywatching updates.

Storm Surge Shatters Records in Tuktoyaktuk, N.W.T.

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Record-breaking winds and waves battered Tuktoyaktuk, N.W.T., damaging homes, flooding roads, and forcing emergency cleanup efforts.

Arctic Community Reels From Severe Storm

Tuktoyaktuk, a coastal hamlet in the Northwest Territories, is recovering after a destructive weekend storm brought powerful winds and heavy waves. Local officials confirmed that at least two homes were damaged and waterfront infrastructure was hit hard, prompting immediate emergency response.

Record-Breaking Water Levels Reported

Environment Canada said the system produced the highest water height ever recorded in the area, reaching 2.62 metres. The storm surge exceeded the previous record of 2.2 metres, well above the usual 0.85-metre high tide. Meteorologists described the event as “exceptional,” with winds strong enough to disable monitoring equipment at the local airport.

Wind and Flooding Leave Lasting Damage

Sustained winds over 40 kilometres per hour, with gusts topping 100 kilometres per hour, battered the Arctic coast for hours on Saturday and into Sunday morning. The storm flooded low-lying areas, damaged shorelines, and cut off power and phone service, which has since been restored.

Emergency Measures Put in Place

The N.W.T. Department of Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA) said emergency shelter was offered at the community centre. Local leaders, including the hamlet’s council, the Tuktoyaktuk Community Corporation, and the Hunters and Trappers Committee, met with the MLA to coordinate recovery efforts. Cleanup priorities include clearing sewage and water lines, repairing roads, and removing debris.

Impact Felt Beyond Tuktoyaktuk

The low-pressure system also battered other Arctic communities, including Paulatuk, Sachs Harbour, Gjoa Haven, and Cambridge Bay, where wind speeds climbed past 90 kilometres per hour. Officials said the wide reach of the storm highlights the vulnerability of northern settlements to extreme climate events.

Resilience Tested After Major Investment

Just last month, Tuktoyaktuk celebrated the completion of a $54-million shoreline protection project designed to shield the community from flooding and erosion. Despite the investment, the storm’s unprecedented intensity shows the continuing risk posed by climate change in Canada’s Arctic.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Wildfire Smoke Triggers Severe Air Warning in Alberta

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Environment Canada warns of very high health risks in Edmonton and northern Alberta as wildfire smoke pushes air quality to dangerous levels.

Agencies Issue Urgent Alert

Environment Canada released an air quality statement at 2:35 p.m. MT Sunday, advising Edmonton and large parts of northern Alberta to take precautions against wildfire smoke.

Dangerous Conditions Identified

The smoke is forecast to push the Air Quality Health Index to 10+, the highest risk category. Officials note reduced visibility and very poor breathing conditions.

Warnings in Effect Through Sunday Night

The agency expects smoke to linger in Edmonton and surrounding areas overnight, with the worst conditions peaking late Sunday before gradual improvements begin.

Regions Most Affected

Advisories extend beyond Edmonton to a wide swath of northern Alberta communities, where wildfire activity continues to generate heavy smoke plumes across the region.

Why the Public Is at Risk

Health authorities caution that older adults, infants, and those with chronic respiratory or heart conditions face elevated risks. Still, everyone is susceptible to smoke-related health impacts.

How Residents Can Protect Themselves

Canadians in affected areas are urged to stay indoors with windows and doors closed, avoid strenuous outdoor activity, and keep cool as extreme heat warnings remain in place.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Pedestrian struck, died on Maple Ridge’s Lougheed Hwy

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A man died after being hit by a vehicle late Saturday on Lougheed Highway in Maple Ridge. RCMP urge witnesses or dashcam footage to come forward.

Fatal Collision in Maple Ridge

A man was killed late Saturday night after being struck by a vehicle on Lougheed Highway in Maple Ridge, B.C. Ridge Meadows RCMP confirmed the fatal incident occurred near 203 Street shortly after 11 p.m.

Emergency Response at the Scene

Police said officers were flagged down at the site of the collision, where they located the injured pedestrian. Despite being transported to hospital, the man did not survive his injuries.

Driver Remains and Cooperates

According to RCMP, the driver of the vehicle, believed to be an SUV, remained on the scene and cooperated fully with investigators. No charges have been announced at this stage.

Traffic Closures Overnight

Following the collision, Lougheed Highway was closed in both directions between 203 Street and 207 Street. The road has since reopened, but the investigation remains ongoing.

Appeal for Witnesses

Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has dashcam footage from the area late Saturday to contact Ridge Meadows RCMP at 604-463-6251.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Canada Crushes Wales 42-0 at Women’s Rugby World Cup

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Canada storms past Wales 42-0 at the Women’s Rugby World Cup in England, improving to 2-0 ahead of a decisive Pool B showdown with Scotland.

Statement Win on the Global Stage

Team Canada delivered a commanding performance on Saturday, shutting out Wales 42-0 in Manchester at the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup. The victory improves Canada’s record to 2-0, following an earlier 65-7 triumph over Fiji, for a combined scoring margin of 107-7 across two matches.

Key Players and Scoring Impact

Six tries fueled the Canadian victory. McKinley Hunt of King City, Ontario led the way with two. Additional tries came from Olympic silver medallists Alysha Corrigan of Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, and Asia Hogan-Rochester of Toronto, along with Taylor Perry of Oakville and Brittany Kassil of Mississauga. Corrigan and Hogan-Rochester previously won silver with Canada’s rugby sevens squad at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

When and Where It Happened

The clash unfolded on August 30 in Manchester, England, where Canada’s physicality and structured attack proved too much for Wales. The win marks one of three shutouts so far in the tournament, joining Australia’s 73-0 win over Samoa and France’s 24-0 victory over Italy on opening weekend.

Why the Match Matters

The victory keeps Canada at the top of Pool B and sets up a decisive showdown against Scotland on September 6 in Exeter, England. Both teams remain unbeaten, with Scotland posting victories of 38-8 over Wales and 29-15 over Fiji. The match is expected to determine first place in the group and a more favorable path to the knockout rounds.

How Canada Secured Dominance

Canada’s aggressive forward play and disciplined defense left Wales struggling to generate momentum. The shutout highlighted the team’s ability to control possession and convert opportunities into points, while stifling Wales’ attack throughout the match. With balanced contributions from veteran players and Olympic standouts, Canada demonstrated depth across the lineup.

What Comes Next

Canada now prepares for its critical clash with Scotland. A win would likely secure Pool B supremacy, while also reinforcing Canada’s credentials as a title contender. With momentum on their side and a powerful attack clicking early in the tournament, expectations are rising for a deep run in England.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

Auger-Aliassime Stuns Zverev at U.S. Open as Canadians Split

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Canada’s Felix Auger-Aliassime upsets world No. 3 Alexander Zverev at the U.S. Open, while Denis Shapovalov exits and Leylah Fernandez advances in doubles.

Canadian Star Shakes Up New York

Felix Auger-Aliassime delivered the performance of his career Saturday night, defeating world No. 3 Alexander Zverev in four sets to advance to the fourth round of the U.S. Open. The Montreal native’s milestone victory electrified Louis Armstrong Stadium and signaled a resurgence after a difficult stretch on tour.

Breakthrough Victory

Auger-Aliassime, ranked 25th, fought back after dropping the opening set to earn a 4-6, 7-6 (7), 6-4, 6-4 win in just under four hours. It marked his first-ever victory over a top-five opponent at a Grand Slam. Dominating with 50 winners compared to Zverev’s 29, the 25-year-old Canadian credited hard work and persistence for his breakthrough. “This one feels very good,” he told fans. “But the job is still not done.”

What Comes Next

The win sets up a Monday clash with Russia’s Andrey Rublev, seeded 15th. Auger-Aliassime, who has struggled with consistency in recent seasons, enters the next round with renewed momentum and confidence, aiming to reach his first U.S. Open quarterfinal since 2021.

Mixed Results for Canadian Men

While Auger-Aliassime celebrated, Denis Shapovalov saw his run end earlier on Saturday. The Richmond Hill, Ontario native fell 5-7, 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 to world No. 1 Jannik Sinner of Italy. Despite flashes of brilliance and 15 aces, Shapovalov was undone by 47 unforced errors and the relentless pressure of the top seed.

Fernandez Advances in Doubles

On the women’s side, Laval’s Leylah Fernandez kept Canadian hopes alive in doubles. Teaming up with American legend Venus Williams, the pair advanced to the third round with a 7-6 (1), 6-1 win over Eri Hozumi of Japan and Ulrikke Eikeri of Norway. Fernandez and Williams combined for 29 winners and will next face the winner of Katie Boulter and Sonay Kartal versus Shuai Zhang and Ekaterina Alexandrova.

Tournament Atmosphere and Implications

The Canadian performances come during a U.S. Open filled with storylines. Top contenders Iga Swiatek, Naomi Osaka, and Coco Gauff all advanced, setting up marquee matchups for the Labour Day weekend. For Canada, Auger-Aliassime’s upset provides a highlight and hope for a deep run, while Fernandez continues to show promise on the doubles stage.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire