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Aldergrove Waterpark: Dive-In Movies & Adults-Only Nights

Henry
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Aldergrove Waterpark: Dive-In Movies & Adults-Only Nights

Aldergrove Waterpark: Where Summer Movies and Poolside Fun Collide

Imagine floating in a pool, drink in hand, as your favorite movie lights up a giant screen. This summer, Metro Vancouver’s Aldergrove Community Centre waterpark is making that dream a reality for families and adults alike.

A Waterpark Like No Other

Tucked away in Langley, the Aldergrove Community Centre waterpark isn’t just another splash zone. It’s a full-on aquatic playground, boasting a leisure pool, hot tub, wild waterslides, a wave pool, and a host of interactive water features. But what truly sets it apart? The chance to watch blockbuster movies while lounging in an inner tube—something you won’t find anywhere else in the Lower Mainland1.

Family-Friendly Film Nights

Every kid (and kid-at-heart) will be thrilled by Dive-In Movie Nights. Picture this: the sun sets, the pool glows, and the whole family floats together as a family-friendly flick plays on the big screen. This summer’s lineup is packed with can’t-miss movies:

  • Thursday, July 10: The Wild Robot (7:00pm – 9:00pm)

  • Thursday, August 7: Moana 2 (7:00pm – 9:00pm)

  • Thursday, September 4: Mufasa: The Lion King (6:30pm – 8:30pm)

At just $8.50 (plus tax) per person, it’s an affordable way to make lasting memories. Remember, advance registration is required—no drop-ins allowed!

Adults-Only: Sips ‘n Dips

Looking for a night out without the kids? Aldergrove’s got you covered. Sips ‘n Dips nights are strictly 19+, offering a relaxed, kid-free vibe. Sip on local craft beer, wine, or seltzer while enjoying all the waterpark perks. Mark your calendars for these adult-only evenings:

  • Thursday, July 3: 7:00pm – 9:00pm

  • Thursday, July 17: 7:00pm – 9:00pm

  • Thursday, July 31: 7:00pm – 9:00pm

  • Thursday, August 14: 7:00pm – 9:00pm

  • Thursday, August 28: 7:00pm – 9:00pm

  • Thursday, September 11: 6:30pm – 8:30pm

Choose between one ($19.20 plus tax) or two ($24.20 plus tax) drink tickets. Just like the movie nights, advance online registration is a must—no drop-ins.

Make This Summer Unforgettable

Whether you’re splashing with the family or sipping with friends, Aldergrove Community Centre waterpark is the go-to spot for unique summer fun. The only swimming theatre in Metro Vancouver, this waterpark is ready to make a splash—and your summer plans just got a whole lot cooler1.

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Imagine, but, what truly sets it apart, every, picture this, as, while, at just, remember, looking for, offering, mark your calendars, choose between, just like, whether, and, the only, so, your summer plans just got a whole lot cooler.

Saskatchewan Ends State of Emergency as Wildfires Ease

James
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0
Saskatchewan Ends State of Emergency as Wildfires Ease

Saskatchewan’s wildfire state of emergency has expired after 30 days, as threats ease and officials scale back daily updates.

Emergency Order Comes to an End

Saskatchewan’s provincewide state of emergency, declared to tackle widespread wildfires, officially expired late Thursday, 30 days after it was enacted. The order, issued by Premier Scott Moe on May 29, responded to dangerous fire conditions that displaced thousands. The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) confirmed the expiry and indicated that daily public updates will now shift to an as-needed basis, reflecting the improving situation.

Scope of the Wildfire Crisis

At the peak of the crisis, wildfires forced more than 10,000 residents to evacuate from affected communities across the province. Although 20 wildfires remain active, only two are reported as not contained. The reduced threat level marks significant progress in containment efforts, aided by recent weather changes and sustained firefighting operations.

Location of Ongoing Risk

Wildfires are still burning across various regions of Saskatchewan, though the most severe threats have diminished. The SPSA continues to monitor fire activity through its online dashboards, providing data on fire locations, containment status, and evacuation alerts where applicable. Communities previously impacted are gradually returning to normal, with emergency shelters winding down operations.

Why the Emergency Order Was Lifted

Officials say the decision to let the emergency order expire stems from a substantial decline in immediate wildfire threats. While some fires persist, they are largely under control, and firefighting resources have been able to contain most outbreaks. The province aims to shift from crisis response to recovery, while maintaining readiness should conditions worsen.

How the Province Plans to Move Forward

The SPSA will provide updates when necessary rather than through daily reports. Residents are encouraged to stay informed via the agency’s online platforms, which will continue to track fire activity. Meanwhile, calls for a review of the province’s emergency response have intensified. The government has faced criticism over the availability of firefighting equipment, including grounded water bombers, and delays in providing basic supports to evacuees during the peak of the crisis.

Future Preparedness and Response

Premier Moe’s government is expected to face further scrutiny as Saskatchewan shifts to recovery. Officials have acknowledged the need to assess the province’s wildfire readiness, including equipment availability and support systems for displaced residents. As the province heads deeper into wildfire season, attention will focus on lessons learned and steps to strengthen future emergency responses.

Ontario Seizes Control of 4 School Boards Over Mismanagement

James
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0
Ontario Seizes Control of 4 School Boards Over Mismanagement

Ontario appoints supervisors to four major school boards, citing mismanagement and financial troubles, as calls grow for more education funding.

Province Moves to Intervene in School Boards

Ontario’s Education Minister Paul Calandra announced Friday that the province has placed four more school boards under supervision due to what he called persistent mismanagement. The boards include the Toronto District School Board, Toronto Catholic District School Board, Ottawa-Carleton District School Board, and Dufferin-Peel Catholic School Board. The decision, unveiled on the last day of school for many students, comes as part of what Calandra describes as a necessary step to address deep financial issues and restore accountability.

Why Supervisors Were Appointed

According to the government, the boards in question face growing deficits, depleted reserves, and have ignored repeated opportunities to fix structural financial problems. Calandra cited investigations revealing troubling spending patterns, including reliance on asset sales to balance budgets. In some cases, such as Dufferin-Peel, the situation was described as nearing bankruptcy. The appointed supervisors — including former politicians and finance professionals — have been tasked with stabilizing the boards’ finances and ensuring resources support student achievement.

How the Province Plans to Reform Governance

Calandra’s announcement signals a broader intention to rethink school board governance in Ontario. He argued that too much decision-making has been decentralized over the years and that clearer rules and oversight are needed to ensure funds are directed toward classrooms. The move builds on earlier actions, such as the province’s takeover of the Thames Valley board in April over questionable spending. Calandra hinted at more interventions to come, saying boards across Ontario should be prepared for tighter scrutiny.

Where the Dispute Over Funding Stands

Critics argue the province’s actions deflect from the real issue: the underfunding of education. The Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation and opposition leaders point to billions cut from education budgets since 2018, saying boards are being set up to fail. They describe the latest takeovers as politically motivated, with supervisors lacking education expertise. Meanwhile, the government insists its $30.3 billion education budget represents record investment, a claim disputed by researchers who highlight declining per-student funding.

When the Changes Take Effect

The supervisors began their work immediately following Friday’s announcement. In addition, Calandra paused upcoming curriculum changes, including updates to kindergarten and history programs, to give teachers more preparation time. Educators had raised concerns about rushed rollouts and insufficient consultation. The government says the curriculum pause aligns with its broader review of education governance and aims to bring greater consistency to classrooms across the province.

What Comes Next for Ontario’s Schools

The intervention marks a turning point in how Ontario manages its education system. While the province promises stronger oversight and financial stability, school boards, unions, and opposition parties warn of eroding local control and misplaced priorities. As the supervisors begin their mandates, the debate over how best to support students, teachers, and schools is likely to intensify in the months ahead.

Trump Halts Canada Trade Talks Over Digital Tax Dispute

James
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0
Trump Halts Canada Trade Talks Over Digital Tax Dispute

Trump demands Canada scrap its digital services tax before U.S. trade talks resume, escalating tensions over tariffs and tech levies.

Tensions Rise as Trump Suspends Negotiations

U.S. President Donald Trump announced Friday he is suspending all trade negotiations with Canada until Ottawa withdraws its digital services tax (DST). Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump accused Canada of unfairly targeting U.S. technology giants and warned of further tariffs on Canadian goods. The move threatens ongoing efforts to resolve a broader trade dispute that has already disrupted industries and cost jobs on both sides of the border.

Canada’s New Tax Sparks U.S. Anger

The DST, set to take effect June 30, imposes a 3% levy on revenues earned from Canadian users by large digital companies, including Amazon, Google, Meta, Uber and Airbnb. Passed last year with a delayed start date, the tax is retroactive, leaving U.S. firms with a collective bill of about $2 billion USD. Ottawa introduced the measure to modernize its tax system and ensure global firms contribute fairly, arguing that such companies have long avoided taxes in Canada despite significant business activity.

Negotiations Stalled Despite Recent Progress

Trade talks had been advancing after Prime Minister Mark Carney and Trump agreed at last week’s G7 summit to work toward a resolution within 30 days. Canadian officials, including Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc, expressed optimism about the tone of discussions as recently as Friday morning. However, Trump’s afternoon remarks — and his threat of additional tariffs — abruptly shifted the dynamic, leaving the future of the negotiations uncertain.

A Familiar Flashpoint in Canada-U.S. Trade Relations

The DST has been a point of friction for years, with successive U.S. administrations opposing unilateral digital taxes. Former President Joe Biden’s envoy to Canada had previously warned of retaliatory measures. While Canada had participated in OECD talks on a coordinated global approach, it opted to move ahead independently, citing slow progress internationally. Trump’s latest comments repeat longstanding grievances about Canada’s dairy tariffs, though trade experts note these claims misrepresent Canada’s supply management system and existing tariff arrangements.

Canadian Leaders Signal Resolve Amid U.S. Pressure

Prime Minister Carney and Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand have so far resisted calls to abandon the DST. Anand emphasized Canada’s commitment to negotiating a deal that supports Canadian workers while diversifying trade relationships to reduce dependence on the U.S. She pointed to the recently signed New EU-Canada Strategic Partnership as part of that effort. Meanwhile, business leaders like Candace Laing of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce caution that trade talks often face setbacks, urging both sides to stay focused on reaching a solution.

Uncertain Path Ahead as Deadlines Loom

With Canada’s DST set to take effect within days and Trump threatening further tariffs, the window for compromise appears narrow. Canada’s government has not indicated it plans to reverse the tax, setting up a potential escalation in cross-border tensions. Both nations now face the challenge of balancing domestic priorities with the need to preserve vital economic ties in the weeks ahead.

Carney’s Canada Day Deadline: Big Promises, Mixed Results

James
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0
Carney’s Canada Day Deadline: Big Promises, Mixed Results

Prime Minister Carney pledged major reforms by Canada Day. What did he achieve on trade, taxes, defence, and red tape?

A Prime Minister’s Ambitious Timeline

Prime Minister Mark Carney entered office in March with bold promises: to deliver swift reforms by Canada Day. After securing a majority Liberal government, Carney had just over 60 days to act on commitments ranging from internal trade to tax relief. With the July 1 deadline here, Canadians are assessing how much progress has truly been made.

Internal Free Trade Legislation Tabled

Carney’s pledge to “unleash free trade in Canada by Canada Day” was central to his campaign. His government passed Bill C-5, eliminating all federal barriers to interprovincial trade and labour mobility. This move targets the long-standing issue of internal trade barriers, which some economists argue cost the economy billions annually. However, since most barriers fall under provincial jurisdiction, real results will depend on cooperation from premiers. While some provinces, including Alberta and Ontario, have taken steps to reduce restrictions, a truly barrier-free Canada remains aspirational.

Tax Cuts in Motion, But Not Finalized

Carney promised swift tax relief, including cancelling the carbon tax, cutting income taxes, and removing GST for first-time homebuyers. The carbon price was scrapped April 1 via prime ministerial directive. Meanwhile, tax cuts and GST relief were bundled in Bill C-4. Although key measures have been adopted through a ways and means motion, the bill itself has not yet passed Parliament, leaving full implementation pending.

Strategic Defence Shift Underway

Responding to global security concerns, Carney sought deeper defence ties with Europe. On June 23, his government signed a strategic defence and security partnership with the EU. This agreement paves the way for Canada to join ReArm Europe and the SAFE loan program, reducing reliance on U.S. defence suppliers. While it marks a significant shift in strategy, participation in ReArm Europe remains at a framework stage.

Red Tape Review Still on the Launchpad

Carney’s platform committed to cutting red tape, requiring federal departments to review outdated or duplicative regulations. The Treasury Board is set to oversee this effort. While the government says preparations are underway, the formal review process has not yet started. The timeline remains ambiguous, with no clear indication when the 60-day review period will begin.

Next Steps for Carney’s Agenda

As the Canada Day deadline passes, Carney faces pressing tasks. A trade deal with the U.S. is slated for negotiation within 30 days. Critical bills—on tax cuts, border security, cybersecurity, and citizenship rights—are still making their way through Parliament. While Carney delivered on some promises, many remain works in progress, setting the stage for a politically charged summer.

Breaking: India, Poland, Hungary Join ISS for 1st Time

Henry
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Breaking: India, Poland, Hungary Join ISS for 1st Time

India, Poland, Hungary Join ISS for First Time

History was made aboard the International Space Station (ISS) this week as astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary joined the orbital lab for the first time. Thanks to a private space mission led by SpaceX and Axiom Space, these nations are now officially part of humanity’s expanding footprint in space.

A Landmark Launch for Three Nations

The four-member crew lifted off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center on Wednesday. Their destination? A two-week mission aboard the ISS, where they’ll carry out a series of scientific experiments. This marks the first crewed ISS visit for these three countries in over four decades — and a major milestone for global space collaboration.

Meet the Crew

At the helm is Peggy Whitson, a record-breaking U.S. astronaut now with Axiom Space. Her crew includes:

  • Shubhanshu Shukla (India): An Indian Air Force pilot

  • Tibor Kapu (Hungary): A mechanical engineer

  • Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski (Poland): A radiation expert and European Space Agency astronaut

None of these countries have had representatives aboard the ISS before. Their last ventures into space date back to the Soviet-era missions of the late 1970s and 1980s.

A Warm Welcome in Orbit

After docking, the new astronauts were greeted with open arms — and drink pouches — by the ISS’s current residents. Eleven astronauts from six nations (U.S., Russia, Japan, India, Hungary, and Poland) now share space, making this a truly international moment in spaceflight.

Kapu noted the growing diversity aboard the station, saying, “Seven of us are first-time flyers, which shows how much space is expanding.”

Long Wait, Big Payoff

The journey wasn’t without delays. The team quarantined starting May 25, awaiting the green light to launch. A recent Russian segment leak repair led NASA to push back the launch to ensure full safety — but the payoff was well worth the wait.

Whitson acknowledged the wait, sharing her joy in finally reaching the station. Japan’s Takuya Onishi, ISS commander, expressed relief and happiness at welcoming the new team.

Axiom’s Growing Role in Private Spaceflight

This is the fourth commercial mission to the ISS sponsored by Axiom Space since 2022. The company, based in Houston, is one of several working to build private space stations that will operate once NASA retires the ISS in 2030.

NASA’s vision for space includes public-private collaboration. This mission reflects that future — where international astronauts, commercial companies, and science-driven goals align in orbit.

Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for more from Earth’s final frontier.

Canadian Wages Outpace Inflation—But At What Cost?

Henry
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0
Canadian Wages Outpace Inflation—But At What Cost?

Canadian wages outpace inflation in April

Canadian wages and inflation took different paths in April. Average wages climbed 4.4%, while inflation rose just 1.7%. Workers now see Canadian wages beating inflation, marking a notable shift. Earnings hit $1,297 weekly—0.8% higher than in March.

Which sectors saw the biggest wage jumps?

Certain sectors saw stronger pay bumps. The information and cultural field led with a 10% wage increase, earning workers $1,875 weekly. Real estate followed closely, with a 9.7% increase to $1,361 per week.

Highest and lowest paid industries

  • Top earners: Mining, quarrying, oil, and gas workers made $2,492 weekly, up 5% year-over-year.

  • Lowest wages: Accommodation and food services averaged $521 per week—rising 4.6%. Arts, entertainment, and recreation trailed at $760 per week.

Job vacancies drop across key provinces

Several sectors lost job openings. Health care and social assistance dropped 23.9%, accommodation and food services fell 21.7%, and construction decreased 13.8%. Provincial declines were widespread, with Newfoundland and Labrador most affected (‑26.3%).

Why most people don’t feel better off

Despite positive Canadian wages vs inflation numbers, many feel financially strained. Economist David Macdonald explains rising everyday costs—like food, rent, and housing—still affect households. He notes that wage growth is a recovery from earlier pandemic-driven inflation, yet uncertain global factors could end the positive trend.

Economic outlook remains uncertain

Looking ahead, Tariffs and global economic choices—like U.S. policy changes—could disrupt wage-inflation balance. “No one knows,” says Macdonald. That uncertainty keeps many Canadians cautious.

Stay tuned to Maple wire.

St. Clare’s Doctors Resign, Warn of Looming Hospital Crisis

Henry
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0
St. Clare’s Doctors Resign, Warn of Looming Hospital Crisis

St. Clare’s Doctors Resign, Sound Alarm on Hospital Crisis

Mass Resignation Sends Shockwaves Through Hospital

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the local healthcare community, the entire internal medicine team at St. Clare’s Hospital has handed in their resignation notices. Doctors are warning that unless urgent action is taken, the hospital could soon face a full-blown crisis.

Why Are Doctors Leaving?

Doctors say their decision did not come easily. For months, they have voiced concerns about overwhelming workloads, lack of support, and unsafe working conditions. Instead of seeing improvements, many say the situation has only gotten worse. Now, with their collective resignation, they hope to draw attention to the urgent need for change.

What’s at Stake for Patients?

Without these physicians, St. Clare’s risks losing vital expertise in diagnosing and treating complex illnesses. Internal medicine doctors are the backbone of hospital care, managing everything from chronic diseases to sudden emergencies. If replacements are not found quickly, patient care could suffer, and wait times may soar.

Hospital Leadership Responds

Hospital administrators have acknowledged the resignations and say they are working to address the doctors’ concerns. While they are actively recruiting new staff, many worry that it will be tough to replace such an experienced team on short notice.

Community Reacts and Next Steps

The news has left patients and families anxious about the future of their care. Local leaders are urging hospital management and doctors to return to the table and find solutions together. As the deadline for the doctors’ departure approaches, everyone is hoping for a breakthrough that will keep St. Clare’s running smoothly.

Trump Halts Canada Trade Talks Over Tech Tax

Henry
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0
Trump Halts Canada Trade Talks Over Tech Tax

Trump Halts Canada Trade Talks Over Tech Tax

Trade Tensions Explode as US President Pulls Plug on Negotiations

President Donald Trump has abruptly cut off all trade negotiations with Canada, sending shockwaves through North America’s economic landscape. The dramatic move, announced late Friday, comes in response to Canada’s decision to slap a new tax on American technology giants—a policy set to take effect as soon as Monday.

Digital Tax Sparks Immediate Backlash

The flashpoint is Canada’s Digital Services Tax, a 3% levy targeting companies making more than $14.6 million annually from Canadian users and over $800 million globally. This means tech behemoths like Google, Amazon, Meta, and Uber will soon be writing checks to Ottawa for revenues dating back to 2022. Trump, never one to mince words, called the tax “a direct and blatant attack on our country,” accusing Canada of copying the European Union’s controversial approach.

Trump’s Tariff Ultimatum: Seven Days and Counting

Not only has Trump slammed the brakes on trade talks, but he’s also promised swift retribution. Within the next week, the US plans to announce new tariffs specifically aimed at Canadian imports. “We will let Canada know the tariff that they will be paying to do business with the United States of America within the next seven day period,” Trump declared on his social media platform.

Businesses Brace for Impact as Markets React

The news sent ripples through financial markets, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq pulling back from recent highs as investors weighed the potential fallout. Major US tech firms are staring down a collective $2 billion bill, payable to Canada’s tax authorities by the end of the month. Meanwhile, business leaders on both sides of the border are nervously preparing for what could become the most significant US-Canada trade dispute in a decade5.

Canada Holds Firm as Prime Minister Carney Responds

Despite the pressure, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has signaled that his government won’t back down. “We will continue to conduct these complex negotiations in the best interests of Canadians,” Carney said, emphasizing that the digital tax is part of a broader strategy to ensure tech giants pay their fair share8. The standoff comes just weeks after Trump and Carney set a 30-day deadline for trade talks during the G7 summit in Alberta.

**What’s Next for US-Canada Relations?**

All eyes are now on the White House as Trump prepares to unveil his tariff plan by July 4. Analysts warn that if Canada retaliates, the continent could see a repeat of the 2018–2020 trade war, which left billions in tariffs and economic pain in its wake5. With billions at stake and political reputations on the line, the next seven days could redefine North American trade for years to come.

Guangxi Reels from Floods as Storm Threatens More Rain

Henry
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Guangxi Reels from Floods as Storm Threatens More Rain

Guangxi Battles Floods and Faces Looming Storm Threat

Towns and villages in China’s Guangxi region are facing devastation after floodwaters surged downstream from neighboring Guizhou province, pushing river levels well beyond safety limits. As the waters spread across southwest China, a tropical depression is set to make landfall Thursday evening, raising fears of another round of flooding.

The Liu River, which begins in Guizhou, has carried the brunt of the overflow. Meilin township in Guangxi was hit the hardest, with floodwaters rising over 4 meters (13 feet) above the danger threshold, according to state media.

Floods Ripple Across Southwest China

The disaster began Tuesday, when torrential rains overwhelmed Rongjiang and Congjiang in Guizhou. The water has since surged into rural Guangxi, submerging homes and displacing families. By midweek, parts of Chongqing, Yunnan, and Sichuan were also placed on high alert for landslides, road collapses, and dam overflows.

Though runoff levels have started to recede in some areas, the region remains vulnerable. Professor Chen Xiaoguang, from the Southwestern University of Finance and Economics, warned that rural communities face greater challenges due to weaker infrastructure and limited emergency resources.

“A Heavy Blow” in Rongjiang

Rongjiang, located at the meeting point of three rivers, suffered a once-in-50-years flood, according to Chinese meteorologists. With a population of about 300,000, the area was caught off guard by the sudden surge.

One section of the Liu River in Rongjiang reached a flow rate of 11,800 cubic meters per second—equivalent to nearly five Olympic-sized swimming pools per second. That’s more than 80 times the normal flow.

At least six people died, and many families lost everything.

“This flood is a heavy blow to us,” said a local resident, whose cake shop and delivery scooter were destroyed. “Our family just escaped poverty. This shop was our only income.”

Many displaced residents have taken shelter in local hotels, which are also hosting rescue teams and infrastructure workers, based on calls to over 10 hotels in downtown Rongjiang.

Local Workers Brace for a Long Recovery

According to Professor Chen, local water bureaus are working around the clock to monitor weather, reinforce defences, and simulate emergency drills. But the intensity and frequency of extreme weather are making their jobs increasingly difficult.

Professor Meng Gao from Hong Kong Baptist University pointed out that limited weather station coverage in remote areas hampers accurate forecasting, leaving many vulnerable communities without early warning.

New Storm Could Delay Recovery

As flood-hit regions begin to clear silt and restore utilities, the situation may worsen again. A tropical depression that first landed in Hainan and then Guangdong is expected to strike Guangxi later Thursday, threatening renewed floods, infrastructure damage, and further delays in recovery.

This comes just two weeks after Typhoon Wutip battered the same region.

Meteorologists link these frequent, intense weather events to climate change, which continues to challenge China’s emergency response systems and ageing flood control infrastructure.

Experts Urge Climate-Resilient Investments

“Climate change is making extreme weather more frequent and unpredictable,” said Professor Chen. “While China has made progress, more investment in early warning systems and resilient infrastructure is essential.”

Officials now face the urgent task of not only repairing the damage but also preparing for what may become the new normal.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for the latest updates on climate impacts and disaster response across Asia.

RFK Jr.’s CDC Advisers to Reassess Vaccine Guidelines

James
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0
RFK Jr.’s CDC Advisers to Reassess Vaccine Guidelines

New CDC advisory panel under RFK Jr. to review childhood vaccine schedule, hepatitis B at birth, and MMRV safety. Experts warn of anti-vaccine bias.

CDC Panel Undergoes Controversial Overhaul

A newly appointed group of vaccine advisers to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has launched a sweeping review of established vaccine recommendations. The panel, created by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., held its first meeting Wednesday in Atlanta and immediately announced three work groups to reassess elements of the childhood immunization schedule.

Focus Areas Include Hepatitis B and MMRV

The new Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), now chaired by Dr. Martin Kulldorff, will review the safety and timing of childhood and adolescent vaccine schedules, including the hepatitis B dose given at birth and the combination measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox (MMRV) vaccine. Kulldorff said the reviews would evaluate cumulative vaccine effects, ingredient exposure, and timing—areas already studied by mainstream scientific consensus.

Panel Reshuffle Raises Alarm

Kennedy recently dismissed all 17 members of the former ACIP, citing conflicts of interest, and replaced them with eight new appointees—one of whom has since stepped down. Some new members have histories of testifying against vaccines in court or publicly opposing Covid-19 vaccination. Public health experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), have condemned the move as politically motivated and potentially dangerous.

Experts Warn of Policy Reversal

Dr. Paul Offit, a vaccine expert at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, criticized the panel’s direction as “a purely anti-vaccine agenda springing to life in public policy.” The AAP announced it would no longer participate in ACIP meetings, calling the new process “illegitimate” and pledging to continue publishing its own evidence-based immunization schedule.

Debating Birth Doses and Outbreaks

One of the committee’s new working groups will examine whether the hepatitis B vaccine should be universally given at birth. Kulldorff questioned its necessity for infants of hepatitis B-negative mothers, though the CDC says the universal approach prevents missed cases and is essential to infant health. AAP and CDC warn that any move to weaken this policy risks severe consequences, citing previous confusion and infant deaths during a 1999 temporary suspension.

Measles Vaccine Under the Microscope

The panel will also reevaluate the combined MMRV vaccine due to a small but known risk of febrile seizures when administered to 1-year-olds. While the risk remains low and manageable, Kulldorff said alternatives and vaccine timing will be reviewed. Meanwhile, measles cases in the U.S. are rising—over 1,200 this year—highlighting the urgency of effective vaccination policy.

RSV Antibody Vote Postponed

A planned vote on a new RSV antibody treatment, clesrovimab (Enflonsia), was postponed due to time constraints. Approved earlier this month, the treatment is expected to protect infants from RSV-related hospitalizations during their first year.

Growing Division in U.S. Vaccine Policy

The shake-up at ACIP marks a significant shift in U.S. vaccine governance. While Kennedy defends the committee as a needed correction to alleged bias, critics say it risks dismantling decades of science-backed public health protections. “Our immunization system is a model for the world,” said Dr. Sean O’Leary of the AAP. “Now, the world is watching us in horror.”

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

Canadian Man Dies in ICE Custody Amid U.S. Crackdown

James
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0
Canadian Man Dies in ICE Custody Amid U.S. Crackdown

Johnny Noviello, a 49-year-old Canadian, died in ICE custody in Florida. His death comes amid Trump’s aggressive immigration enforcement push.

Death in Florida Detention Center

A Canadian citizen, Johnny Noviello, 49, died on Monday while in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at a detention center in Florida, according to an official news release. The cause of death remains unknown and is currently under investigation.

Legal Status and Criminal Record

Although born in Canada, Noviello had lived in the United States since 1988 and became a lawful permanent resident in 1991. In 2023, he was convicted of several offenses, including racketeering and drug trafficking, and was sentenced to 12 months in prison. Public court records also revealed that he had epilepsy and required medication to manage seizures.

Detainment Before Deportation

Noviello was detained by ICE agents in May 2025 and was awaiting removal proceedings when he died. ICE did not disclose the conditions of his detention or whether he was receiving appropriate medical care for his condition.

Canadian Government Responds

Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand confirmed that Canadian officials have been notified of Noviello’s death. “Canadian consular officials are urgently seeking more information from U.S. officials. I offer my sincere condolences to the family,” she said in a statement posted on X.

Broader Immigration Enforcement Context

Noviello’s death coincides with a dramatic escalation in U.S. immigration enforcement. Earlier this year, U.S. President Donald Trump signed a series of executive orders aimed at mass deportations. Under the direction of Trump aide Stephen Miller, ICE has been tasked with conducting 3,000 arrests per day—nearly five times its previous average.

Protests and Political Fallout

The aggressive enforcement strategy has sparked widespread protests across major U.S. cities, including mass demonstrations in Los Angeles. In response, Trump deployed troops to the city, prompting criticism from California Governor Gavin Newsom. The immigration crackdown has led to the detention of other Canadians as well, including B.C. resident Jasmine Mooney, who was held for nearly two weeks earlier this year after a visa renewal issue.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.
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Janice Charette Appointed Canada’s Chief Negotiator for CUSMA Trade Review

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Canada Names Chief Negotiator for CUSMA Review The Canadian government...

Victoria Selected to Pilot Hockey Canada Development Hub

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Victoria to Host Hockey Canada’s First Development Hub Pilot Victoria...

Air Canada Ordered to Pay Passenger Nearly $15,000 After Delay

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Canadian Court Rules Against Air Canada in Delay Dispute A...

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B.C. Premier Alarmed by AI Warnings Before Tumbler Ridge Shooting

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Premier Eby calls AI warnings before Tumbler Ridge shooting...

Tragic Avalanche Claims Skier Near Revelstoke

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A guided backcountry skiing trip near Revelstoke ends in...

Ottawa Invests $40M in B.C. Universities for Defence Innovation

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Canada pledges $40M to UBC and SFU for defence...

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