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Abbotsford Home Hit in Targeted Shooting, Say Police

Nicole
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Abbotsford Home Hit in Targeted Shooting, Say Police

A targeted early-morning shooting struck an Abbotsford home amid an ongoing extortion investigation. No injuries reported as police seek dashcam footage.

Abbotsford Home Struck in Targeted Shooting Linked to Extortion Case

Early-Morning Gunfire

An Abbotsford home was hit by gunfire early Tuesday morning after a targeted shooting linked to an ongoing extortion investigation, according to local police. The Abbotsford Police Department (APD) says officers responded at approximately 3:43 a.m. on Nov. 18 to reports of shots fired in the 2500 block of Janzen Street.

Scene Officers Encountered

When officers arrived, they found two unoccupied vehicles parked in the driveway of the home struck by bullets. Police say the residents were inside and asleep at the time of the shooting. No one was injured.

Police Determining Motive

APD reported the attack was deliberate and connected to an “ongoing extortion investigation.” Authorities did not release further details about the nature of the extortion case but confirmed the residence had been intentionally targeted rather than randomly chosen.

Investigative Steps Underway

Police are now gathering evidence from the scene and reviewing nearby surveillance footage. Officers remain in the neighbourhood to conduct further inquiries as part of the broader investigation into the extortion-related activity.

Call for Witnesses and Footage

Investigators are urging anyone who was in the Janzen Street area between 3:15 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. to come forward. Drivers with dashcam recordings or residents with security video that may have captured the incident are asked to contact the Abbotsford Police Department at 604-859-5225.

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Swedish Royals Begin Three-Day State Visit to Canada

Sarah
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Swedish Royals Begin Three-Day State Visit to Canada

Swedish royals King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia arrive in Ottawa for a three-day state visit focused on diplomacy, trade, and support for Ukraine.

Swedish Royals Arrive in Ottawa for Rare State Visit

Historic Arrival in the Capital

King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia landed in Ottawa today, marking the Swedish royal family’s first visit to Canada since 2006. Their arrival begins a three-day state visit intended to strengthen diplomatic ties between the two countries. The royal couple is accompanied by senior government ministers and representatives from more than two dozen Swedish companies.

Official Welcome Ceremony at Rideau Hall

The day’s events began with a formal welcome at Rideau Hall, where Chief Justice Richard Wagner led the Canadian delegation greeting the King and Queen. The ceremony reflects Canada’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Sweden, a longstanding partner in trade, security, and democratic governance.

Tribute at National War Memorial

Shortly after the welcome, the royal couple travelled to the National War Memorial. There, they laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to honour Canada’s fallen military members. The symbolic tribute underscores the shared values of defence, peacekeeping, and international solidarity that bind both nations.

High-Level Meetings on Parliament Hill

In the afternoon, the King and Queen are scheduled to meet Prime Minister Mark Carney and senior Canadian officials on Parliament Hill. Discussions are expected to focus on expanding bilateral trade, technological collaboration, and Arctic cooperation. Their visit includes meetings with leaders from Canada’s scientific, cultural, and business sectors.

Joint Support for Ukraine Reaffirmed

Global Affairs Canada confirmed that today’s agenda includes a special session on Canada–Sweden coordination in supporting Ukraine. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand will join Sweden’s Deputy Prime Minister Ebba Busch and Ukrainian-Canadian community representatives to reaffirm ongoing humanitarian and military assistance. The dialogue aims to reinforce allied unity amid continued Russian aggression.

State Dinner at Rideau Hall

The first day of the royal visit concludes with a state dinner hosted by the Governor General at Rideau Hall. The event will honour the King and Queen and highlight the deep people-to-people connections between Canada and Sweden. Officials from both countries, along with members of the business and diplomatic communities, will attend the evening celebration.

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Toys “R” Us Shrinks as Canada’s Retail Landscape Shifts

Nicole
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Toys “R” Us Shrinks as Canada’s Retail Landscape Shifts

Toys “R” Us Canada is rapidly downsizing as competition, e-commerce and rising costs reshape the country’s toy retail market, leaving only 40 stores nationwide.

Toys “R” Us Shrinks as Canada’s Retail Landscape Shifts

A Changing Shopping Experience

In Langley, B.C., families still wander the bright aisles of the remaining Toys “R” Us store, where children test out figurines and explore colourful displays. Parents say the space feels safe and familiar, but many note they often browse rather than buy — a reflection of how consumer behaviour is evolving.

A Retail Giant Under Pressure

Across Canada, the once-dominant chain is facing financial strain as discount retailers and e-commerce platforms outpace traditional toy stores. The company’s footprint has fallen from 103 stores to just 40, with several locations — including Burnaby, Richmond and Vancouver’s flagship Broadway store — closing in the past two years. Analysts say rising costs, competition from Walmart and Amazon, and shifting preferences toward digital entertainment have eroded the brand’s long-held advantage.

How the ‘Category Killer’ Rose to Power

When Toys “R” Us entered Canada in 1984, its massive standalone stores transformed the toy industry. Offering unmatched selection and scale, the chain outcompeted independent toy retailers and mall-based shops. Industry experts recall how the brand became a “category killer,” reshaping consumer expectations for toy shopping and contributing to the decline of long-standing chains such as Toys & Wheels.

Why the Market Shifted

By the early 2000s, digital disruption began erasing the company’s dominance. Video games, electronics, and emerging online marketplaces diverted teenagers and families to new forms of entertainment. Meanwhile, big-box rivals stocked toys year-round at lower prices, pushing specialty retailers into a margin battle they couldn’t win. Retail strategists say this combination of market fragmentation and aggressive competition marked the beginning of a long decline.

Operational Strains Behind Closures

As leases increased and retail spending softened, the financial model that supported 30,000-square-foot stores became unsustainable. Analysts note that many locations could only remain viable at a fraction of their original size. With fewer customers and growing operational costs, Toys “R” Us began selling real estate and exiting key urban markets. Several former sites — including Vancouver’s prominent Broadway address — are now primed for redevelopment under new municipal plans.

What Comes Next for Toy Retail

Experts say the shrinking chain doesn’t mean physical toy stores are obsolete. Demographic shifts, including younger families moving into suburbs like Langley, may preserve select locations. However, the future likely belongs to smaller, specialized retailers offering curated experiences rather than massive big-box formats. For communities losing their Toys “R” Us anchor stores, the challenge will be finding suitable replacements in an already strained commercial real estate market.

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B.C. Parents Push for Free RSV Shots for Every Infant

James
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B.C. Parents Push for Free RSV Shots for Every Infant

Parents and doctors in B.C. urge the province to fund RSV shots for all infants, warning that high costs and rising hospitalizations make access urgent.

Parents, Doctors Urge B.C. to Fund RSV Protection for All Infants

Rising Demand for Wider Access

Parents and physicians across British Columbia are calling for nirsevimab — an RSV immunization for infants — to be publicly funded for all families. Their plea follows growing frustration that, unlike most provinces, B.C. still requires the majority of parents to pay out of pocket for the preventative antibody, which costs between $800 and $900.

Personal Struggles Illustrate the Challenge

Northern B.C. family physician Dr. Patrick Hemmons says he had to travel to Seattle last year to purchase a dose privately for his preterm daughter. He describes the experience as “stressful and unnecessary,” arguing that no Canadian family should need to cross borders to access a medication proven to reduce severe RSV in infants.

Provinces Split on Funding Decisions

Nirsevimab — approved by Health Canada in April 2023 and distributed under the name Beyfortus — is publicly funded for all infants in most provinces. The exceptions are British Columbia, Alberta and New Brunswick, which only cover high-risk infants or those living in specific remote regions. Despite being born early, Hemmons’ daughter did not qualify under B.C.’s current criteria.

RSV Poses Significant Health and Economic Burdens

RSV typically causes mild cold-like symptoms but can lead to serious complications for newborns and older adults. A University of British Columbia study found that babies under six months accounted for 45% of RSV-related hospitalizations nationwide and nearly half of the annual treatment costs, estimated at $32.5 million. Calgary parent Katrina Bellavance, whose infant daughter was hospitalized with RSV in 2023, says broad immunization access could prevent traumatic hospital stays and ease pressure on the health-care system.

National Guidance Supports Universal Coverage

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommended prioritizing high-risk infants due to the high price of the antibody but also advised provinces to move toward universal infant RSV immunization. The committee emphasized that broad coverage would be medically beneficial and economically sound in the long term.

B.C. Signals Potential Policy Revisions

The B.C. Ministry of Health says eligibility criteria are reviewed annually and confirmed that 4,000 publicly funded doses will be available for high-risk infants during the 2025-26 RSV season. Parents of infants who do not qualify may still obtain the medication privately, depending on manufacturer stock.
Pediatrician and former CMA president Dr. Katharine Smart believes B.C. and other holdout provinces may eventually expand coverage, citing both health-care pressures and the high costs associated with RSV hospitalizations. She warns that limited provincial funding also reduces public awareness, leaving families uninformed about the immunization even when they are willing to pay.
“We need to ensure families know nirsevimab exists,” she said. “But even more importantly, we need to make it accessible to every baby.”

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Cloudflare Outage Disrupts ChatGPT, X and Major Platforms

Chuck
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Cloudflare Outage Disrupts ChatGPT, X and Major Platforms

A major Cloudflare outage hit globally on Nov 18, causing 500-errors across ChatGPT, X, Canva, League of Legends, and other major platforms.

Cloudflare Outage Disrupts ChatGPT, X and Major Platforms

Millions Affected as Key Online Services Fail

A widespread internet disruption on Tuesday impacted users across Canada and worldwide after Cloudflare, a major internet infrastructure provider, experienced a technical failure. The outage prevented access to platforms including ChatGPT, X (formerly Twitter), Canva, Grindr, and several online gaming services, according to real-time reports.

Company Identifies the Technical Issue

Cloudflare confirmed that the problem began early Tuesday and was under investigation after multiple clients reported “500 errors” and dashboard failures. By 8:09 a.m. ET, the company announced that it had identified the root cause and deployed an initial fix, though some users continued to experience instability during the recovery period.

Global Impact Highlighted Through User Reports

Platforms dependent on Cloudflare’s network saw rapid spikes in outage reports, with Downdetector showing thousands of user submissions at the outage’s peak. By 8 a.m. ET, reports had dropped significantly, but many Canadians still faced intermittent loading issues and failed logins.

Temporary Service Restrictions in the U.K.

As part of its remediation process, Cloudflare temporarily disabled certain services for users in the United Kingdom, citing the need to stabilize traffic. The company continued restoring application services throughout the morning, updating customers frequently on its status page.

Busy Maintenance Schedule Adds Context

The outage coincided with scheduled maintenance at a Cloudflare data centre in Santiago, Chile, although the company did not confirm whether the timing was related. Engineers continued working to fully restore service levels across its global network.

Experts Warn About Heavy Dependence on Few Providers

Cybersecurity specialists have repeatedly cautioned about the risks of centralization, noting that a small number of tech firms power much of the internet’s infrastructure. Cloudflare’s outage highlighted the potential vulnerabilities that arise when a single provider supports such a large share of global web traffic.

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Ottawa Shifts Transport Canada Aircraft to Defence

Claire Bennett
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Ottawa Shifts Transport Canada Aircraft to Defence

Ottawa is transferring Transport Canada’s aviation fleet to National Defence, raising questions about surveillance, safety, and Canada’s NATO spending goals.

Ottawa Transfers Transport Canada’s Aircraft to Defence, Raising Questions

A Major Shift in Federal Aviation Responsibilities

The federal government is moving Transport Canada’s aviation fleet and core aviation services to the Department of National Defence (DND), a change revealed in the Nov. 4 federal budget. The shift affects aircraft used for pollution monitoring, Arctic surveillance, and coastal protection, yet few details have been provided about what the transition will look like.

Government Cites Budget Review But Offers Few Details

The transfer stems from Transport Canada’s effort to meet savings targets under the government’s Comprehensive Expenditure Review. While Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne’s budget notes that pilot training and certification regimes will remain unchanged, neither Finance nor Transport Canada has explained how civilian functions will continue once aircraft, staff, and facilities move into the defence portfolio.

Impact on National Aerial Surveillance Program Unclear

Transport Canada operates a fleet of 52 aircraft—24 owned and the rest leased—including fixed-wing planes, helicopters, and a new Hermes 900 Starliner drone for Arctic missions. These assets form the backbone of the National Aerial Surveillance Program (NASP), which monitors pollution and marine activity along Canada’s three coastlines. With the fleet now shifting to DND, it remains uncertain how civilian pollution monitoring will continue without disruptions.

Parallel to Coast Guard Integration Raises Concerns

The move mirrors the recent integration of the Canadian Coast Guard into DND’s broader surveillance network. Coast Guard Commissioner Mario Pelletier recently told a parliamentary committee he could offer little clarity beyond new requirements to share intelligence with the military. Questions about data-sharing, operational independence, and whether civilian crews could defend themselves in dangerous scenarios remain unanswered.

NATO Spending Targets a Key Driver, Experts Say

Defence analysts suggest the transfer is less about operational efficiency and more about meeting NATO’s new benchmark of spending five per cent of GDP on defence. Michael Byers, a political scientist at the University of British Columbia, says the real motive is boosting Canada’s defence spending numbers by reclassifying civilian assets under the military umbrella. He warns that essential civilian functions must not be neglected in the process.

Arctic Surveillance Capabilities in Transition

The transition comes at a sensitive time for Arctic security. Canada recently acquired a $36-million Hermes 900 drone for northern patrols, though it has not yet been deployed. Meanwhile, the Royal Canadian Air Force is expecting a separate fleet of MQ-9 Reaper drones. How the two systems will coexist—and whether the civilian-intended Hermes drone fits military requirements—remains unknown.

Facilities and Land Transfers Still Not Defined

Transport Canada maintains four dedicated aviation bases and uses facilities at nine Coast Guard sites nationwide. The department also owns land at 26 airports, but Ottawa has not confirmed whether these properties will be transferred to Defence. With operational structures still unclear, the federal government has offered no timeline for when the transition will be complete or how essential services will be preserved.

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Hamilton affordable housing bonds open for local investors

James
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Hamilton affordable housing bonds open for local investors

A new Hamilton affordable housing project is launching community bonds to raise $15M for a 164-unit rental building on King Street East.

Hamilton Residents Invited to Back New Affordable Housing

Community Investment Launch

A new affordable housing initiative in Hamilton is asking residents to help bring a 164-unit rental building to life. Gather Housing Communities — a non-profit launched in May by well-known social housing provider Indwell — will open community bond investments on Dec. 3, enabling individuals to contribute as little as $1,000 toward the project. The model aims to give everyday residents a direct role in expanding the city’s affordable housing supply.

Project Goals and Funding Plan

Gather Housing is seeking $15 million over two years to cover critical pre-construction work at 1907 King St. E., including design, planning, and municipal approvals. The 10-storey building will offer units priced at 30% of household income, with one-third eligible for City of Hamilton subsidies to ensure deeper affordability. The non-profit says community investment is essential because traditional financing for early-stage non-profit housing is either costly or unavailable.

Why Community Bonds

According to Michael Brathwaite, Indwell’s senior associate of impact investing, community bonds allow residents to support local housing solutions while earning a return between 3.75% and 4.85%, depending on term length. He says the bonds are a practical tool for filling the “missing middle” — working individuals who earn below Ontario’s median income of $90,000 but are priced out of market rentals. Once government funding flows in at the construction phase, it will reimburse early costs, allowing Gather Housing to reinvest that capital into future projects.

Proven Model in Hamilton

Community investment has already shown success locally. In 2024, Indwell raised $6 million through its first community bond program, surpassing its $5-million target. Those funds supported pre-construction for four upcoming supportive housing projects: Acorn Flats, Century Manor, Ottawa Street Apartments and Stonehouse Apartments. All four developments are now nearing construction readiness, largely due to early community backing.

Expert Advice and Investor Caution

Financial experts encourage prospective investors to research organizations before purchasing community bonds, as they are not assessed by credit rating agencies. Investment advisor Patti Dolan noted that understanding the issuer’s cash flow is essential. In Gather Housing’s case, long-term government funding — which does not require repayment — is expected to form the backbone of its financial stability.

Looking Ahead

As community bond programs gain traction across Canada for housing, cultural spaces and renewable energy, Hamilton is exploring its own municipal approach. The city previously signalled interest in establishing a government-led bond program, though no further updates have been provided. For now, Gather Housing’s launch offers residents a chance to directly support new rental options in a city facing persistent housing pressures.

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Prince Albert Mill Won’t Reopen as BMI Seeks New Tenants

James
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Prince Albert Mill Won’t Reopen as BMI Seeks New Tenants

The Prince Albert pulp mill will not reopen as BMI Group begins plans to redevelop the site and attract new industrial tenants.

Prince Albert Pulp Mill Won’t Reopen as BMI Begins Redevelopment Plans

New Ownership Sets New Direction

The long-idle Prince Albert pulp and paper mill will not return to operation after its sale to Ontario-based BMI Group, ending hopes of a restart and beginning a search for new industrial tenants. The decision follows BMI’s purchase of the site from Domtar after eight months of negotiations, confirming a permanent shift away from pulp production.

Company Vision for Revitalization

BMI, headquartered in Tillsonburg, Ont., said its goal is to transform the former Weyerhaeuser property into a hub for new economic activity. The development firm specializes in environmental remediation and repositions industrial sites for modern uses. “The site will never be a pulp mill again,” said Chris Rickett, BMI Group’s head of government and community relations, highlighting the company’s intention to reimagine the property rather than restore its former operations.

A Site with Industrial Potential

Located about 10 kilometres east of downtown Prince Albert, the 2,331-acre site includes river access, former waste ponds, and a connection to the Carlton Trail Railway. BMI noted that its existing power-generation infrastructure—capable of producing energy from tree waste—could attract industries requiring on-site power solutions. The mill originally closed in 2006, resulting in the loss of roughly 700 direct jobs and further impacts across the forestry sector.

Engagement with Local and Indigenous Partners

BMI has started consultations with the City of Prince Albert, the province and nearby First Nations, with plans to launch a formal master planning process in early 2026. Rickett said local input will guide future opportunities, including decisions on what equipment will remain, what needs upgrading and what should be removed to support new industrial development.

OSB Plant Proposal Still Alive

While the pulp mill restart is off the table, One Sky Forest Products continues to pursue construction of an oriented strand board (OSB) facility on a subdivided parcel of the site. The group, backed by Tatanka Oyate Holdings and other First Nations partners, is working to finalize investment commitments after earlier delays tied to potential U.S. tariffs on Canadian wood products.

One Sky board member Robert Fincati said the project remains active, emphasizing the need for local fibre processing capacity. The proposed $500-million plant would create approximately 120 direct jobs and another 120 in harvesting and hauling.

Regulatory and Resource Approvals in Place

The provincial government has already approved key components of One Sky’s project, including its environmental impact assessment and a timber allocation of 1.2 million cubic metres to ensure fibre supply. The Ministry of Environment said it welcomed the sale of the mill site and viewed the redevelopment as positive for Prince Albert and the broader region, which hosts several sawmills and OSB facilities currently in operation.

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Vancouver Rise Celebrate NSL Title with Fans at YVR

James
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Vancouver Rise Celebrate NSL Title with Fans at YVR

Vancouver Rise return home to cheering fans after winning the inaugural NSL championship, capping a dramatic comeback season for women’s pro soccer in Canada.

Vancouver Rise Greeted by Cheering Fans After Historic NSL Win

A Championship Homecoming Filled With Emotion

Vancouver Rise FC arrived at Vancouver International Airport on Sunday afternoon to an eruption of cheers, songs, and signature crow calls from supporters eager to welcome home the first-ever Northern Super League champions. The team returned less than 24 hours after their dramatic comeback victory over top-ranked AFC Toronto in the inaugural NSL championship final, a match marked by lightning delays, shifting momentum, and high-stakes suspense.

Fans Gather Early to Celebrate a Breakthrough Moment

Dozens of supporters, including families, young fans, and longtime season-ticket holders, crowded the arrivals area waving scarves, flags, and handmade signs. Among them was Erika Wootten, a dedicated member of the Crow Collective—the team’s spirited supporters group inspired by the nightly crow migration over Burnaby and Swangard Stadium. She said the chance to meet the players in person after following them all season was unforgettable.

Supporter Culture Anchored in Grit and Resilience

Wootten said crow calls felt fitting for a team defined by its tough, comeback-driven style of play. Vancouver, who finished third in the regular season, entered the final as underdogs against a Toronto side that led the league in scoring. “The Vancouver style of play is all about grit and resilience,” she said. “They’ve shown that all season long, and the final was no exception.”

A Final Marked by Pressure, Patience, and a Stunning Turnaround

During Saturday’s championship match, Toronto dominated early stretches and generated the bulk of scoring chances. But Vancouver held their composure, weathered the pressure, and struck back in the second half to tie the game. A late decisive goal completed the comeback and secured the NSL’s first-ever title, igniting celebrations both in-person and across the country.

Coaching Staff Credits Fans for Fueling the Team’s Spirit

Rise head coach Anja Heiner-Møller said the supporters played an essential role throughout the season and into the playoffs. She noted that many fans bought tickets to the final before the team had even qualified. “They wanted to be part of history,” she said. Heiner-Møller added that the squad’s ability to remain calm under pressure—whether playing shorthanded, chasing a deficit, or grinding through extra time—has been a defining characteristic.

Players Reflect on a Historic Moment for Canadian Soccer

Forward Mariah Lee said the magnitude of the championship win is still sinking in. “I woke up a champion today. I can’t believe it,” she said. Beyond Vancouver’s triumph, Lee emphasized the broader impact of the NSL season on women’s sports in Canada. “We have world-class players. Everyone can see the quality in this league,” she said. “The whole world should be on notice about Canadian women’s soccer.”

Federal Funding Signals Stronger Future for the NSL

The celebration came just one day after the federal government announced up to $5.45 million in funding to support the Northern Super League and accelerate the growth of women’s professional soccer in Canada. The investment, paired with the league’s high-energy inaugural season, signals significant momentum for the sport nationally.

A Victory That Resonates Beyond the Championship Trophy

For fans, players, and organizers, Vancouver Rise’s championship represents both a local triumph and a milestone for Canadian women’s soccer. As supporters continued chanting and cawing throughout the airport, the message was clear: this victory is only the beginning of a new era.

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MGK Electrifies Grey Cup Crowd in Winnipeg

James
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MGK Electrifies Grey Cup Crowd in Winnipeg

MGK energized the 112th Grey Cup in Winnipeg with a powerful halftime show as fans lit up the stadium during a night of celebrations and a Roughriders victory.

MGK Electrifies Grey Cup Crowd in Winnipeg

Halftime Performance Draws Massive Fan Response

American rapper and singer-songwriter MGK energized Winnipeg’s Princess Auto Stadium on Sunday night as he headlined the halftime show for the 112th Grey Cup. The performer, backed by a live band and CFL cheerleaders, delivered a medley of fan favourites, including “Don’t Wait Run Fast” from his latest album released earlier this year. Fans responded by lighting up the stadium with thousands of phone flashlights, creating a striking sea of lights.

Stadium Atmosphere Heightens During Featured Acts

MGK, wearing a football jersey without team affiliation, thanked the crowd for the opportunity to perform during Canada’s biggest football event. The evening’s entertainment began earlier with a three-song pre-show from Canadian rock band Our Lady Peace, while Manitoba country singer Catie St. Germain led the national anthem in front of a packed stadium.

Prime Minister Faces Mixed Reception from Fans

Prime Minister Mark Carney attended the championship game, performing the ceremonial coin toss at centre field. His appearance drew a mix of reactions, including loud booing and expletives from some spectators. Carney waved to attendees, posed for photos, and proceeded with the formal duties despite the vocal response from portions of the crowd.

Fans Celebrate Before and After the Big Game

Before kickoff, supporters—many dressed head-to-toe in Rider green—filled the outdoor tailgate zone surrounding the stadium. The festive atmosphere continued throughout the night and spilled into the streets after the Saskatchewan Roughriders secured a 25–17 win over the Montreal Alouettes, earning their first Grey Cup title in 12 years.

Historic Victory Marks Major Milestone for Saskatchewan

As the final whistle sounded, green confetti swept across Princess Auto Stadium, celebrating the Roughriders’ fifth championship title and first since their 2013 victory in Regina. Fans cheered from the stands and later gathered outside the venue, marking the culmination of a night that blended sports, music, and national spectacle.

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Canada Announces First Team for 2026 Paralympic Games

James
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0
Canada Announces First Team for 2026 Paralympic Games

Canada announces its first athletes for the 2026 Paralympic Games, unveiling a veteran wheelchair curling team led by returning Paralympic medallists.

Canada Reveals First Athletes for Milan-Cortina 2026 Paralympics

A Milestone Announcement Sets Canada’s Paralympic Journey in Motion

Canada’s campaign for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games took its first major step this week as the Canadian Paralympic Committee and Curling Canada jointly announced the nomination of five wheelchair curlers. The announcement, made Monday, confirms the first official Canadian delegation heading to Italy for the Games.

Veteran Lineup Brings Depth, Experience, and Proven Success

The nominated athletes—Gilbert Dash (Kipling, Sask.), Ina Forrest (Spallumcheen, B.C.), Mark Ideson (London, Ont.), Collinda Joseph (Ottawa), and Jon Thurston (Dunsford, Ont.)—represent one of the most seasoned Paralympic lineups in Canadian curling history. Four of the five return from the Beijing 2022 squad, where Canada secured a bronze medal, continuing a streak unmatched by any other nation in the sport.

A Sport Where Canada Has Never Missed the Podium

Wheelchair curling has been part of the Paralympic program since Torino 2006, and Canada remains the only country to medal at every Games since its debut. The team enters Milan-Cortina with a legacy of consistency and a renewed determination to protect that record.

Leaders Speak on Pride, Legacy, and the Road Ahead

Team skip Mark Ideson, set for his fourth Paralympic appearance and third as skip, emphasized the honour of competing again. He brings a personal collection of one gold and two bronze medals.
“Representing Canada at my fourth Paralympic Games is an incredible opportunity,” he said. “I’m lucky to be part of such an amazing group of athletes and staff, and we’re ready to take on the best teams in the world. Competing in such a historic venue will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and knowing we’ll have friends, family, and fans back in the stands makes it feel even more special.”

A Full-Circle Moment for Veteran Paralympian Ina Forrest

Co-captain Ina Forrest will compete in her fifth Paralympic Winter Games, carrying a remarkable record of two gold and two bronze medals. For Forrest, Milan-Cortina holds personal meaning.
“The opportunity to represent Canada at the Paralympics is an athlete’s dream,” she said. “There’s never a guarantee you’ll get to live that dream again, so each of my Paralympic experiences is something I truly treasure. This one is especially meaningful — I missed qualifying for the Torino 2006 team, which was a huge disappointment at the time, so competing in Milano Cortina 2026, 20 years later, feels like I’ve come full circle.”

Preparation Begins as Team Targets Another Podium Finish

With the roster now confirmed, Canada’s wheelchair curlers will begin final preparations, including training camps, international competition exposure, and strategic development sessions. The team aims to strengthen cohesion and refine its medal-winning formula ahead of the Games, where they expect strong competition from China, Sweden, the United States, and host nation Italy.

Looking Toward a Promising 2026 Campaign

As the first Canadian athletes officially named to the 2026 Paralympic contingent, the wheelchair curling team sets the tone for the national delegation. Their nomination marks not only a continuation of a storied Paralympic tradition but also a renewed pursuit of excellence on the world stage.

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Canada’s Inflation Slips to 2.2% as Gas Prices Fall

James
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0
Canada’s Inflation Slips to 2.2% as Gas Prices Fall

Canada’s inflation eased to 2.2% in October as gas prices fell sharply, though core inflation and key household costs remain stubbornly high.

Canada’s Inflation Slips to 2.2% as Gas Prices Fall

Lower Gas Prices Drive October Slowdown

Canada’s annual inflation rate eased to 2.2 per cent in October, largely due to a sharper drop in gasoline prices, Statistics Canada reported Monday. The decline followed a switch to lower-cost winter fuel blends and falling crude prices linked to concerns about global oversupply.

Headline and Core Numbers Show Mixed Signals

While headline inflation cooled, the rate excluding gasoline held steady at 2.6 per cent — unchanged from September. Economists noted the slowdown relied heavily on cheaper gas and food, with many underlying price categories instead trending upward. BMO chief economist Douglas Porter described the details as “a tad on the disappointing side,” pointing to persistent pressure in several sectors.

Bank of Canada Monitoring Inflation Path

The Bank of Canada signalled in its latest rate announcement that it expects inflation to remain near its two per cent target in the coming months. Governor Tiff Macklem has suggested rates will hold steady provided inflation stays close to the bank’s forecast. Core inflation — which removes volatile components — remained near three per cent but showed modest easing in October.

Grocery Prices Cool but Remain Elevated

Slower growth in gas and grocery prices contributed to the moderation, though food costs continue to rise faster than overall inflation. Prices for processed foods and fresh vegetables increased at a slower pace, but gains in fresh or frozen chicken prices limited relief. Statistics Canada noted grocery inflation has outpaced the headline rate for nine consecutive months.

Rising Household Costs Offset Some Relief

October’s slowdown was tempered by increases in cellphone plan prices, as well as home and auto insurance — with Alberta seeing the largest jumps. Porter cautioned these pressures signal ongoing cost persistence, calling the report “another reason to believe the Bank is moving to the sidelines in December,” with little expectation of further rate cuts.

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