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Bookmaker in Ohtani Betting Scandal Sentenced to Prison

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Bookmaker in Ohtani Betting Scandal Sentenced to Prison

Mathew Bowyer, linked to Shohei Ohtani’s ex-interpreter, gets just over a year in prison for illegal gambling, money laundering, and tax fraud.

Courtroom Decision

A California bookmaker at the centre of a high-profile sports betting case connected to baseball star Shohei Ohtani’s former interpreter has been sentenced to just over a year in federal prison. Mathew Bowyer, 50, received 12 months and one day behind bars on Friday in Santa Ana, along with two years of supervised release.

Details of the Conviction

Bowyer had pleaded guilty in 2024 to running an illegal gambling operation, laundering money, and filing a false tax return. Alongside the prison term, he was ordered to pay $1.6 million in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service — a sum his attorney confirmed has already been repaid.

Why the Sentence Was Reduced

Federal prosecutors initially sought a 15-month prison term but acknowledged Bowyer’s “significant and credible” cooperation in their investigation. His assistance helped secure convictions against Ohtani’s former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, and the head of another large-scale gambling enterprise. That cooperation ultimately shortened his sentence.

Background of the Scandal

Authorities said Bowyer ran an illegal betting business for more than five years across Southern California and Las Vegas, accepting wagers from over 700 clients. Among them was Mizuhara, who placed hundreds of millions of dollars in bets unrelated to baseball. Mizuhara, convicted of stealing nearly $17 million from Ohtani, is currently serving a sentence of nearly five years.

Personal Impact and Remorse

Before sentencing, Bowyer expressed regret for his actions, describing his gambling addiction as a lifelong struggle that began in his teens. “I have made many poor choices in my life,” he told the court, his voice trembling. His lawyer argued for leniency, noting that Bowyer has sought treatment for addiction and now counsels others facing similar struggles.

Wider Implications for Sports Betting

The case underscores growing concerns around gambling in professional sports. Major League Baseball has faced multiple betting scandals in recent years, including a lifetime ban issued in 2024 — the first since Pete Rose’s punishment in 1989. The Bowyer case also prompted Nevada regulators to fine Resorts World Casino $10.5 million, one of the largest penalties in state history, for allegedly enabling ties to illegal bookmaking.

Looking Ahead

While Bowyer will serve just over a year in custody, the broader investigation has reshaped how regulators, prosecutors, and sports leagues monitor betting activity. With sports gambling expanding across North America, authorities warn that illegal operators remain under scrutiny and enforcement will continue to target both bookmakers and their high-profile clients.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

Montreal Buses Delay ‘Go! Canadiens Go!’ Message

Henry
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Montreal Buses Delay ‘Go! Canadiens Go!’ Message

Fans Disappointed Ahead of Season Opener

Montreal Canadiens fans hoping to see the iconic cheer “Go! Canadiens Go!” on city buses will need to wait longer. The Société de transport de Montréal (STM) confirmed that the familiar slogan won’t be flashing in time for the team’s season opener on October 8. Despite public anticipation, the transit agency has not yet decided if or when the message will officially return.

Language Watchdog Controversy Sparked Debate

This decision follows months of debate involving Quebec’s language watchdog, the Office québécois de la langue française (OQLF). Earlier this year, the OQLF directed the STM to remove the English word “Go” from electronic bus signs. Instead, they encouraged using the French version, “Allez! Canadiens Allez!” The move triggered backlash among fans and officials who argued that “Go” was part of Quebec’s sporting culture.

Quebec Government Backed Use of “Go”

In response, French Language Minister Jean-François Roberge defended the slogan, stressing that “Go” has long been ingrained in Quebec identity. The OQLF later softened its stance, acknowledging that the borrowed English word has been used in Quebec French since the 1980s as a universal form of encouragement.

Timing and Technical Delays

Although the language debate has been resolved for now, logistical hurdles remain. The STM updates bus displays only once a year, a process that takes weeks to implement. That means even if officials approve the return of “Go! Canadiens Go!” the update likely won’t appear until early next year.

What’s Next for Habs Fans?

For Montreal hockey supporters, the absence of the chant on bus signs may feel symbolic, but STM insists it is still considering the change. Until then, fans will continue to show their spirit in other ways as the Habs hit the ice for their season opener.

Stay tuned with Maple Wire for more updates on Montreal, Quebec, and Canada’s top headlines.

Canadian Striker Tani Oluwaseyi Signs with Villarreal

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Canadian Striker Tani Oluwaseyi Signs with Villarreal

Mississauga-born Tani Oluwaseyi joins Villarreal on a five-year deal, becoming the latest Canadian star in Spain’s La Liga.

Major Transfer Confirmed

Spanish club Villarreal CF has officially signed Canadian forward Tani Oluwaseyi from Minnesota United, the team announced Friday. The 25-year-old striker agreed to a five-year contract, becoming the latest Canadian international to move into Spain’s top division.

A Canadian Duo in Spain

Oluwaseyi joins Brampton native Tajon Buchanan at Villarreal, giving the La Liga side a double dose of Canadian attacking talent. Buchanan made headlines last weekend when he became the first Canadian to score a hat trick in Spain’s top flight, capping a 5–0 win over Girona. The addition of Oluwaseyi adds depth and strengthens Villarreal’s Canadian connection.

From Mississauga to La Liga

Born in Nigeria and raised in Mississauga, Ont., Oluwaseyi moved to Canada at age 10 and later starred at St. John’s University. Drafted 17th overall by Minnesota in the 2022 MLS SuperDraft, he went on to play 62 matches, scoring 20 goals and adding 14 assists across all competitions for the Loons.

Why Villarreal Made the Move

Villarreal, nicknamed the “Yellow Submarine” for its iconic yellow kits, finished fifth in La Liga last season and secured a Champions League spot. By adding Oluwaseyi, the club not only strengthens its front line but also taps into the momentum of Canada’s rising football profile. His scoring record in MLS, combined with international experience, makes him a valuable long-term asset.

Impact on Minnesota United

Minnesota chief soccer officer Khaled El-Ahmad praised Oluwaseyi’s growth and said the transfer signals the club’s ability to develop players for global opportunities. “This is a historic transfer for our club — one that firmly places us on the global stage,” El-Ahmad said in a statement. Oluwaseyi, who scored 10 goals and eight assists this year, leaves as Minnesota’s top attacking contributor.

International Career and What’s Next

Since debuting for Canada against France in 2024, Oluwaseyi has earned 15 caps and scored twice for the national team. He is included in coach Jesse Marsch’s squad for September friendlies against Romania and Wales. With Canada preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on home soil, his move to Spain could provide invaluable top-level experience.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

McDavid, Crosby Lead Canada’s Charge in Olympic Hockey Return

Avery
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McDavid, Crosby Lead Canada’s Charge in Olympic Hockey Return

With NHL players back at the 2026 Olympics, Connor McDavid and Sidney Crosby are set to headline Canada’s quest for gold on hockey’s biggest stage.

A Long-Awaited Comeback

For the first time in 12 years, NHL players will compete in the Winter Olympics, restoring one of hockey’s most iconic traditions. The league’s return ensures that the world’s best will clash in Milan-Cortina 2026, a moment Canadian fans have anticipated since Sochi 2014.

Stars Ready for the Spotlight

Connor McDavid, widely considered the best player in the game today, will make his long-awaited Olympic debut. He’ll be joined by veteran Sidney Crosby, the hero of Canada’s 2010 “Golden Goal.” Together, they represent a blend of generational talent and championship experience as Canada looks to reclaim hockey supremacy.

Where History Will Be Made

The Olympic hockey tournament will take place in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, as part of the 2026 Winter Games. For Canadian players, the European setting adds a new chapter to the nation’s storied Olympic legacy, offering a chance to shine on truly international ice.

Why This Moment Matters

Canada last captured Olympic hockey gold in 2014, but without NHL participation in PyeongChang 2018 and Beijing 2022, many stars missed their opportunity. For McDavid, Crosby, and their teammates, Milan represents not just a competition, but a chance to showcase Canadian hockey’s identity on the world stage.

How Teams Are Preparing

Hockey Canada has already begun scouting and planning for roster construction, balancing youth and experience to maximize depth. NHL scheduling adjustments will pause the league during the Games, allowing players to train and compete without compromising the regular season. Coaches emphasize chemistry, discipline, and adapting to international rink sizes.

What Comes Next

As the countdown to February 2026 continues, all eyes will be on Canada’s selection camp and eventual roster announcement. With McDavid’s speed and Crosby’s leadership, expectations are sky-high. For fans across the country, the return of NHL stars to Olympic ice revives memories of past glory — and stirs hope for another golden finish.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

Julia Schell Shines With Six Tries at Rugby World Cup

Avery
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Julia Schell Shines With Six Tries at Rugby World Cup

Canada’s Julia Schell scores six tries in one match at the Rugby World Cup, powering her team past Fiji and making Canadian rugby history.

A Historic Performance in England

Canadian fullback Julia Schell delivered one of the standout performances of the Women’s Rugby World Cup in England, scoring six tries in Canada’s dominant 65-7 victory over Fiji. The 29-year-old from Uxbridge, Ontario, achieved the feat last Saturday at York Community Stadium, making history with one of the best individual scoring runs in tournament play.

The Moment That Stunned Fans

Schell, who entered the match with just three tries in 26 international appearances, exploded in the second half with tries in the 50th, 53rd, 54th, 61st, 69th, and 72nd minutes. “I was a bit shocked that it kept coming, but credit goes to my teammates who set it up,” she said afterward. Her six-try effort was the most in a Rugby World Cup match since 2017, when New Zealand’s Portia Woodman-Wickliffe recorded eight against Hong Kong.

How She Did It

Supported by Canada’s powerful forwards and speedy backs, Schell repeatedly broke through defensive gaps from her position at fullback. She used both agility and pace, beating defenders on two tries and sprinting clear for others. Alongside her scoring, she led all players in the opening round with 237 carry metres, showcasing her all-around impact.

Why It Matters for Canada

Schell’s breakout game is a major boost for a Canadian side ranked second in the world and aiming for a deep run in the tournament. Canada has now won seven straight meetings against Wales — their next opponent — and will look to extend their momentum at Salford Community Stadium in Manchester this Saturday. A win would mark a record fifth straight pool-play victory at the World Cup.

The Human Side of the Story

Beyond the numbers, Schell’s performance sparked an outpouring of support. “My phone blew up after the game with messages from old teammates and coaches,” she said. In one lighthearted twist, she revealed that a familiar spectator offered her $200 if she scored — the father of a former University of Guelph teammate who had once lost a similar wager to her during her university days.

Looking Ahead

Currently playing club rugby in England with Ealing Trailfinders, Schell has become a key figure in Canada’s World Cup campaign. With Canada undefeated in 2025 and Wales struggling at 1-7 this year, the Canadians are favourites to advance. For Schell, however, her six-try showcase has already cemented her place as one of the tournament’s early stars.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

NCAA Eligibility Shift Reshapes Canada’s Hockey Future

Avery
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NCAA Eligibility Shift Reshapes Canada’s Hockey Future

New NCAA rule lets CHL players join Division 1 men’s hockey, reshaping Canada’s player pipeline and creating ripple effects across leagues.

Rule Change Sparks Hockey Shake-Up

A landmark NCAA decision is changing the path for Canadian hockey players. On Aug. 1, 2025, new rules came into effect allowing Canadian Hockey League (CHL) athletes to play NCAA Division 1 men’s hockey. The move ends decades of strict separation between the two systems and is already altering the makeup of junior and university rosters across North America.

Why the Decision Matters

Before the rule change, players were forced to choose between the CHL or pursuing an NCAA route through Junior A hockey, often making life-altering decisions in their mid-teens. Now, CHL athletes can pursue both paths, opening doors to higher education while maintaining professional aspirations. Pierre Arsenault, CEO of U Sports, calls it “a destabilizing but inevitable shift” that will take time for leagues to fully understand.

Impact on Canadian Teams

The effects are most visible in the Western Hockey League (WHL). The Victoria Royals lost six players to U.S. colleges, including NHL first-round pick Cole Reschny and top 2026 draft prospect Keaton Verhoeff, who both committed to the University of North Dakota. Royals general manager Jake Heisinger says the team is adjusting on the fly, balancing development with the reality that players may leave earlier than expected.

Players Embrace New Choices

For young stars, the NCAA option is a welcome development. Reschny described the previous system as “tough,” forcing 14-year-olds into early career-defining choices. Verhoeff echoed the sentiment, saying the opportunity to face older NCAA competition was too valuable to pass up, even if it meant leaving behind teammates he considered family.

Shifting Recruitment Strategies

The ripple effects extend beyond the CHL. U Sports, Canada’s university sports governing body, has seen CHL recruits fall from 44.4% of its incoming hockey players last year to just 16% this season. At the same time, Junior A and BCHL players now make up over 62% of new recruits. BCHL commissioner Steven Cocker says the league is doubling down on its reputation as an academic-focused pathway, noting it already supplied a quarter of NCAA Division 1 rosters last season.

What Comes Next

The change is redefining how Canadian hockey talent develops. Teams like the Royals are signing prospects, such as 16-year-old Eli McKamey, who plan to spend only a short time in the CHL before heading to U.S. colleges. For players, the reform means more flexibility and opportunity. For leagues, it signals a new era of competition for talent and a reimagining of what the Canadian hockey pipeline looks like.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

Trump Tariffs End $800 Parcel Exemption

Henry
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Trump Tariffs End $800 Parcel Exemption

U.S. Drops Longstanding Shipping Exemption

Trump tariffs have officially ended the $800 parcel exemption, a rule that once allowed duty-free imports on small packages. Starting Friday, U.S. Customs and Border Protection began collecting duties on all global shipments, regardless of value. This move disrupts e-commerce supply chains and raises costs for businesses worldwide.

Transition Period with Flat Fees

While the exemption is gone, officials announced a six-month transition. Postal carriers can temporarily pay flat duties ranging from $80 to $200 per package, depending on the country of origin. After February 2026, all shipments must shift to full value-based duty collection.

White House Defends the Policy

White House trade adviser Peter Navarro framed the change as a national security win. He argued the exemption had been abused to ship fentanyl and other narcotics, while also costing the U.S. billions in tariff revenues. According to Navarro, closing the “deadly loophole” could generate up to $10 billion each year.

A Blow to E-Commerce Growth

The de minimis exemption has existed since 1938 and was raised to $800 in 2015 to help small businesses grow online. But the surge of direct-to-consumer shipments from companies like Shein and Temu, especially after Trump’s earlier tariffs on Chinese goods, changed the landscape. CBP reports show shipments under this exemption skyrocketed from 139 million in 2015 to 1.36 billion in 2024.

Who Gets Hit the Hardest

Now, global shipping companies such as FedEx, UPS, and DHL must collect duties on every package. Postal agencies abroad face two options: process duties based on actual value or collect flat fees aligned with Trump’s “reciprocal” tariff tiers.

  • $80 flat for countries under 16% duty rates, like the U.K. and EU.

  • $160 for countries between 16%–25%, such as Vietnam and Indonesia.

  • $200 for nations above 25%, including China, Brazil, India, and Canada.

International Impact

Some foreign postal services briefly suspended deliveries to the U.S. However, officials confirmed shipments from the U.K., Canada, and Ukraine remain unaffected. The administration says it is working with foreign partners and the U.S. Postal Service to keep disruptions minimal.

This policy shift marks one of the most dramatic changes to U.S. trade rules in decades. Businesses relying on low-cost imports now face higher expenses, while consumers may see prices rise across e-commerce platforms. Trump’s administration insists the changes are permanent, signaling a tougher trade era ahead.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for more updates on trade, tariffs, and global shipping news.

Trump Blocks Venezuelan Oil Access for Foreign Majors

Henry
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Trump Blocks Venezuelan Oil Access for Foreign Majors

Washington Tightens Its Grip on Venezuelan Oil

The Trump administration has moved decisively on Venezuelan oil, blocking several foreign majors while allowing Chevron to maintain operations. This action, aimed at increasing pressure on Nicolás Maduro’s government, highlights how U.S. sanctions control global oil access. The decision impacts European giants like Repsol, Eni, and Maurel & Prom, along with India’s Reliance Industries.

Why Chevron Gets a Pass

Interestingly, Chevron continues to operate in Venezuela. Washington granted the U.S. oil giant special approval to resume producing and exporting crude. For the administration, this creates a balance: exerting “maximum pressure” on Maduro while ensuring American refineries access much-needed oil. Officials argue this deal secures supply stability for U.S. markets at a time of rising global energy risks.

Geopolitical Calculations at Play

The strategy reveals Washington’s balancing act. On one hand, Trump maintains his tough stance on Venezuela’s regime, Iran’s nuclear program, and Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. On the other, he seeks to manage energy prices at home. Recently, the Treasury Department also imposed sweeping sanctions on Tehran—the harshest in seven years.

Foreign Majors Left in Limbo

For now, European companies remain sidelined. Repsol, Eni, and Maurel & Prom had long sought waivers that would allow them to receive crude as repayment for debts owed by Venezuela’s PDVSA. Under President Biden, they had private approvals, but Trump has allowed those to expire. Their silence speaks volumes about growing uncertainty in the energy sector.

The Chevron Deal and U.S. Interests

The Chevron license came with strings attached. In exchange, Venezuela agreed to release 10 American prisoners and accept 250 Venezuelan migrants detained abroad. This transactional approach underscores Trump’s strategy: combining pressure with selective deals that serve U.S. geopolitical and domestic interests. The arrangement is expected to boost U.S. refinery supplies by more than 200,000 barrels per day.

The Road Ahead for Venezuelan Oil

As Washington doubles down on sanctions, the future of Venezuela’s oil industry hangs in the balance. While Chevron enjoys exclusive access, non-U.S. companies must wait for clarity. This divide reflects not just energy policy but also the administration’s wider global strategy. Every decision, from sanctions to waivers, signals how the U.S. intends to shape both oil markets and geopolitical alliances.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for the next update on energy, trade, and global politics.

Canada’s Women’s Hockey Team Shifts Olympic Training Strategy

Avery
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Canada’s Women’s Hockey Team Shifts Olympic Training Strategy

Canada’s women’s hockey team changes Olympic prep, training in three cities instead of Calgary centralization, as PWHL reshapes the path to gold.

Training Strategy Overhauled

Canada’s women’s hockey team is making a significant shift in its preparation for the 2026 Winter Olympics. Instead of centralizing for months in Calgary, as has been the tradition, the team will train in blocks spread across Calgary, Toronto, and Montreal to better align with the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) schedule.

Why the Change Matters

Hockey Canada says the move reflects the evolution of the women’s game. With the PWHL now providing players with 30-plus games, professional training environments, and international competition, daily centralization is no longer the only path to high-level readiness. Officials believe this approach keeps players sharp while reducing disruption to their professional league commitments.

When Preparations Begin

The first of three training blocks begins immediately following this week’s Olympic orientation camp in Calgary, where 30 women were invited. From late August through to February, the players will regroup periodically around their PWHL calendars, ensuring a balance between national preparation and league play.

Where the Focus Lies

Key camps will be staged in Calgary, Toronto, and Montreal — all hubs of Canadian women’s hockey. The program is designed to simulate game-like conditions while allowing athletes to maintain their competitive edge in the PWHL. Players will also compete in the annual Rivalry Series against the United States, beginning November 6 in Cleveland.

Voices From the Ice

Captain Marie-Philip Poulin, who plays for Montreal in the PWHL, embraced the change. “It’s a great shift for us. Competing against each other in the league, then coming together for Canada, pushes us to be better,” she said. Forward Sarah Fillier added that the PWHL is “elevating the game” by giving national team hopefuls consistent exposure to top-tier competition.

How It Impacts the Road to Milan

Canada opens its Olympic title defence on February 5, 2026, against Finland in Milan, Italy. With 160 days until the puck drops, Hockey Canada estimates the women will spend about 50 of those days together in training. Officials argue this commitment is unmatched globally, setting the team up for a strong run at a sixth Olympic gold since 1998.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

SSENSE Faces Creditor Protection Amid Canada Retail Crisis

Henry
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SSENSE Faces Creditor Protection Amid Canada Retail Crisis

SSENSE Battles Creditors in Montreal

Montreal fashion brand SSENSE, known for luxury clothing and accessories, is preparing to file for creditor protection. The move comes as lenders attempt to sell the company without its approval. At the same time, shifting U.S. trade rules and tightening liquidity have created fresh challenges for the once-thriving retailer.

In a memo shared with employees, the company stressed that filing under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA) is the only path forward to protect operations, retain assets, and safeguard its future.

What Triggered the Financial Strain

The retailer pointed to two major issues fueling its crisis. First, the end of the U.S. de minimis exemption, which had allowed duty-free shipping on packages worth $800 or less. With its elimination, shipping costs are expected to surge, directly impacting companies like SSENSE that depend on cross-border e-commerce.

Second, SSENSE revealed that its main lender filed a creditor-initiated CCAA application without consent, creating what the brand called “an immediate liquidity crisis.” With limited short-term fixes available, restructuring became the only viable solution.

Operations to Continue for Now

Despite the looming restructuring, SSENSE assured its 1,200 employees worldwide that salaries, benefits, and expense claims will continue during the legal process. The company emphasized that day-to-day operations, both online and in-store, will carry on as usual.

Founded in 2003 by brothers Rami, Firas, and Bassel Atallah, SSENSE attracts about 100 million monthly page views. With 80% of its shoppers aged 18 to 40, the platform has long positioned itself as a trendsetter in luxury e-commerce.

Wider Retail Struggles in Quebec

SSENSE’s troubles mirror a larger crisis for Quebec’s retail sector. Earlier this year, Montreal-based Frank And Oak shut down nine stores after its parent firm filed for creditor protection, citing pandemic-era financial scars.

Groupe Dynamite, which owns Garage and Dynamite clothing lines, also announced store closures across Canada. Court documents show Frank And Oak alone owes creditors nearly $71 million, including landlords and textile partners.

Fast-Fashion’s Growing Impact

Beyond debts and tariffs, local retailers face fierce competition from global fast-fashion giants like Shein and Temu. According to Quebec’s retail council, 58% of retailers have reported falling sales since the arrival of these low-cost competitors, while 17% faced steep declines.

Some retailers have altered sales strategies, with nearly one-third adjusting pricing models. Others, around 13%, were forced to cut staff. The council further accused fast-fashion platforms of dodging Canadian tax, labor, and safety standards while promoting unsustainable consumption.

What’s Next for SSENSE

As the court process unfolds, SSENSE’s future remains uncertain. However, the company insists that restructuring will give it the breathing room needed to stabilize and navigate shifting market realities.

For now, customers can still shop as usual, but the brand’s ability to compete against global rivals and withstand rising costs will be tested in the months ahead.

Stay tuned with Maple Wire for the next big update.

Indian Student Returns From Canada Amid Permanent Residency Challenges

Henry
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Indian Student Returns From Canada Amid Permanent Residency Challenges

Indian Student Faces PR Challenges in Canada

An Indian man living in Canada for nine years is now planning to return home, citing difficulties in obtaining permanent residency. His experience highlights growing concerns over Canada’s permanent residency rules and visa challenges affecting international students.

Sharing his story on Reddit, he wrote: “I will be moving back from Canada to India in November. After spending 9 years in Canada, I have failed to get PR because of the new immigration rule.”

Nine Years in Canada: Work, Study, and Debt

The man detailed his Canadian journey, noting six years in university, one year unemployed, and two years employed. He completed a Mechanical Engineering with Management co-op program and worked as a junior data analyst.

Despite his professional experience, he also carries student debt and now faces the added complication of his American girlfriend, raising questions about moving back together. He sought advice from Reddit users about settling in India’s first-tier versus third-tier cities.

Online Debate Sparks on Permanent Residency

The post ignited heated discussion online. Users questioned how someone could live nine years in Canada without securing PR. One commenter noted, “There are plenty of people who lived in Canada for 9 or even 10+ years and didn’t get PR. Points systems and visa rules often block them.”

Others emphasized the challenges of returning to India: “If you couldn’t survive here, you need to hustle 10x more in India. You have to be super street-smart.” Some offered city-specific suggestions like Pune or Ahmedabad for affordability and job opportunities.

The original poster clarified: “Who said I couldn’t survive in Canada? I have debt from my studies and I’ve been paying it back monthly.”

Canada’s New Visa Rules Affect Indian Students

Policy changes introduced in May 2025 have intensified challenges. The IRCC update removed legal status protection for temporary residents submitting a second application to extend their stay. Zubin Morris of Little & Co explained, “If the initial application is refused, any second application—even if submitted in advance—will not be considered.”

Additionally, Canada reduced its temporary resident population by 5%, from 485,000 to 430,000, further limiting opportunities for international students.

Impact on Overseas Indian Population

Canada remains a top destination for Indian students and professionals. As of March 2025, over 2.87 million overseas Indians resided in Canada. However, IRCC data shows study permits for 2024 dropped 48% from 2023, falling short of targets by roughly 100,000.

The IRCC recently opened applications for permanent residency under the French language Express Entry draw, allowing 2,500 individuals to apply. Yet, the policy shift continues to affect thousands of international students and workers seeking long-term opportunities in Canada.

Moving Forward

This Reddit account underscores how immigration policies, visa regulations, and PR challenges shape international students’ decisions. For many, the dream of staying in Canada is now being reconsidered.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for the latest updates on immigration, international student news, and permanent residency developments in Canada.

Family Channel to Shut Down After Nearly 40 Years

James
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Family Channel to Shut Down After Nearly 40 Years

Family Channel, a staple of Canadian kids’ TV for decades, will close after broadcasters drop it, parent company WildBrain confirms.

Iconic Kids’ Network to Go Dark

After nearly four decades on air, Canada’s beloved Family Channel is set to shut down in the coming months. Toronto-based WildBrain announced that Family Channel, along with Family Jr., WildBrainTV and Télémagino, will cease broadcasting after major carriers declined to renew distribution agreements.

Company Confirms Closure

In a statement this week, WildBrain called the channels “no longer commercially viable.” President and CEO Josh Scherba acknowledged the channel’s legacy: “For nearly four decades, Family Channel has been a trusted destination for Canadian kids and families. We’re incredibly proud of the legacy we’ve built — thanks to our loyal viewers, dedicated television employees and the many talented Canadian producers we’ve partnered with.”

The closure comes after Rogers and Bell decided to drop the channels from their lineups. WildBrain said the shutdown will take effect once Rogers officially stops carrying them. An exact date has not yet been announced.

Cultural Impact Across Generations

Launched in 1988, Family Channel shaped childhoods across Canada with a mix of Disney favourites — including Hannah Montana and The Suite Life of Zack & Cody — and Canadian originals like Life With Derek and The Next Step.

Actor and director Michael Seater, who starred in Life With Derek, recalled the channel’s influence: “I really understood that Family Channel was a completely different beast. Those were the glory days.” The network also spearheaded social campaigns such as its Stand Up anti-bullying initiative, which sent stars into schools to connect with young audiences.

A Unique Canadian Platform

Former producer Adrienne McDonnell noted that Family Channel offered more than just television: mall tours, concerts and interactive events brought fans face-to-face with their favourite stars. She added that the channel’s strong support of Canadian content made it stand out. “It was much bigger than just sitting down in front of the TV,” she said, calling the closure a worrying loss for Canadian creators.

Changing Media Landscape

Industry experts say the move reflects wider struggles in children’s television. Ryan Tuchow, senior reporter at Kidscreen Magazine, said the economics of kids’ broadcasting have become “stark and depressing, but not wholly surprising.”

WildBrain indicated the shutdown will have “minimal” impact on its overall business, pointing to its growing focus on streaming platforms and YouTube, where its channel has over 11 million subscribers. Still, some Family Channel shows could disappear entirely from Canadian screens.

Broader Shift Away from Kids’ TV

The shutdown follows Corus Entertainment’s recent decision to wind down five of its own youth-oriented channels, including Nickelodeon, Disney Jr. and ABC Spark, effective Sept. 1. With so many networks gone, traditional cable options for Canadian kids are dwindling.

Tuchow noted that YouTube has now overtaken streaming giants like Netflix and Disney+ as the top entertainment platform for children globally. “There’s really not much left for kids without these channels,” he said.

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