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Oilers Dominate Stars, Set Up Stanley Cup Rematch With Panthers

Chuck
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Oilers Dominate Stars, Set Up Stanley Cup Rematch With Panthers

Edmonton Oilers defeat Dallas Stars 6-3, advancing to a Stanley Cup Final rematch against the Florida Panthers. Game 1 starts June 4 in Edmonton.

Oilers Storm Past Stars to Reach Stanley Cup Final

The Edmonton Oilers are heading back to the Stanley Cup Final after a commanding 6-3 victory over the Dallas Stars in Game 5 of the Western Conference Final. Edmonton wasted no time, scoring three goals in the opening eight minutes and never looking back, sealing the series with a 4-1 advantage.

Balanced Attack Powers Edmonton

Six different Oilers found the back of the net, showcasing the team’s depth and offensive firepower. Connor McDavid led the way with a goal and an assist, while Corey Perry, Mattias Janmark, Jeff Skinner, Evander Kane, and Kasperi Kapanen also scored. Goaltender Stuart Skinner made 14 saves to help secure the win..

Dallas, despite two goals from Jason Robertson and a tally from Roope Hintz, could not overcome Edmonton’s early surge. The Oilers’ relentless pressure forced Dallas to pull starting goalie Jake Oettinger in the first period after conceding two quick goals.

Stanley Cup Final Rematch: Oilers vs. Panthers

With this victory, the Oilers advance to the Stanley Cup Final for the second consecutive year, setting up a highly anticipated rematch with the defending champion Florida Panthers. Last year, the Panthers edged out Edmonton in a dramatic seven-game series to claim their first-ever Stanley Cup.

Florida earned their return to the Final by defeating the Carolina Hurricanes 4-1 in the Eastern Conference Final. Game 1 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final will be played in Edmonton on Wednesday, June 4, with the Oilers holding home-ice advantage thanks to their superior regular-season record..

Can Edmonton End Canada’s Stanley Cup Drought?

It has been over three decades since a Canadian team last hoisted the Stanley Cup. With a deep, balanced roster and a hunger for redemption, the Oilers are determined to bring the trophy back to Canada and avenge last year’s heartbreak.

The stage is set for another thrilling showdown between two of the NHL’s most dynamic teams. Hockey fans can expect fireworks when the puck drops in Edmonton next week.

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

Nun’s Island Housing Project Stalled by Local Opposition

Nicole
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0
Nun’s Island Housing Project Stalled by Local Opposition

A 525-unit housing plan on Nun’s Island faces delays after residents trigger a referendum, highlighting Montreal’s ongoing debate over new developments.

Residents Stall Major Nun’s Island Housing Development

A Promising Site Meets Fierce Resistance

A proposal to transform a sprawling parking lot and commercial building at 8 Place du Commerce into 525 new homes has hit an unexpected roadblock. While developers saw an opportunity to address Montreal’s housing shortage, a wave of local opposition has brought the project to a standstill.

“Not In My Backyard”: Community Voices Concerns

For many Nun’s Island residents, the idea of adding hundreds of new units is a step too far. Sylvie Martel, a vocal opponent, described the proposed densification as “monstrous,” echoing widespread fears about overdevelopment. Longtime resident Marylena Catanese cited existing strains on traffic, schools, and clinics, while Claribel Gamboa argued that the neighborhood is already saturated with buildings.

The Power of 26 Signatures

Despite support from the Verdun borough and a zoning change request by MACH Group, the project was halted when just 26 residents signed a register—enough to trigger a referendum and force a public consultation. This small but determined group has effectively paused the development, demonstrating the significant influence of local activism.

Divided Opinions on Nun’s Island’s Future

Not everyone is celebrating the delay. Some, like Bertrand Guermeur, believe blocking new housing is a mistake: “We need to open everything to everybody.” Others warn that constant resistance to development could paralyze progress. “If it’s always ‘not in my backyard,’ nothing’s going to move forward,” said Julien Regragui.

New Provincial Rules on the Horizon

The impasse comes as Quebec’s government seeks to streamline housing approvals with Bill 31, which could allow municipalities to bypass referendums in the name of tackling the housing crisis. However, Verdun officials confirmed that the Nun’s Island project was not eligible for fast-tracking under the current rules. The borough is now working on a transparent framework to implement these new powers, expected to be adopted in June.

What’s Next for Montreal’s Housing Landscape?

As Montreal grapples with a growing need for housing, the outcome of this Nun’s Island dispute could set a precedent for future developments across the city. Will local voices continue to shape the skyline, or will new policies tip the balance toward rapid expansion?

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

Digging Up Calgary’s Past: UCalgary Students Unearth History

Avery
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0
Digging Up Calgary’s Past: UCalgary Students Unearth History

UCalgary students and city archaeologists uncover ancient artifacts in Edworthy Park, inviting Calgarians to witness history beneath their feet.

Unearthing Hidden Stories Beneath Edworthy Park

A routine stroll through Calgary’s Edworthy Park now offers a rare glimpse into the city’s ancient past. For two weeks, University of Calgary archaeology students have transformed a popular dog park into a live excavation site, revealing stories buried for centuries.

A Unique Collaboration to Preserve Heritage

This initiative is a partnership between the City of Calgary and the University of Calgary, designed to both preserve and showcase the city’s rich archaeological legacy. Unlike most digs, which are hidden away or tied to development projects, this excavation is open to the public, inviting passersby to observe and ask questions as history is uncovered in real time.

What Lies Beneath: Artifacts and Ancient Campsites

So far, the team has uncovered a stone circle believed to be a ceremonial or homestead site, fragments of stone tools, and what may be a bison bone—evidence of a pre-contact Indigenous campsite. These discoveries are helping piece together the lives of those who inhabited the area long before European settlers arrived.

“Archaeological resources are part of a cultural landscape, and they tell a story that most citizens and visitors are unaware of,” explained Laureen Bryant, the city’s cultural landscape planner.

Learning Through Hands-On Experience

The field school, led by UCalgary professor Lindsay Amundsen-Meyer, offers students practical training in excavation and artifact mapping. Indigenous youth and elders are also actively involved, ensuring the dig is conducted with respect and cultural sensitivity.

“Starting with ceremony and having that exposure of the future archaeologists to elders… they recognize the importance of it so they can carry that into industry going forward,” said Bryant.

A Living Lesson for Calgary

Edworthy Park’s history stretches back to the 1880s as a site for markets and farming, but its roots go much deeper. Indigenous peoples have used the land for thousands of years, and sites like this may date back as far as 9,000 years. The public is encouraged to visit, watch the excavation, and connect with the students to learn about the city’s layered past.

Get Involved

The dig continues through the first week of June, offering Calgarians a unique opportunity to see archaeology in action and discover the stories beneath their city.

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

Calgary May Face More Heatwaves and Hail This Summer

James
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Calgary May Face More Heatwaves and Hail This Summer

Calgarians brace for hailstorm season as summer heat intensifies, raising concerns over property damage and insurance claims across the city.

Calgary’s Summer Heat Fuels Hailstorm Fears

As temperatures soar across Calgary, a new season of anxiety is settling in for many residents: hailstorm season. On Thursday, the city was under a heat warning, while nearby Banff and Lake Louise faced extreme thunderstorm watches, signaling the return of unpredictable and potentially damaging weather.

Residents on Edge as Storms Loom

For those living in northern Calgary, the threat feels all too familiar. Jay Ghinger, a Cityscape resident, described the community’s response to recent warnings: “The last warning we got from Environment Canada, people covered their cars and parked them under bridges and stuff.” Ghinger is currently dealing with two unresolved hail insurance claims and fears a third is inevitable. “There’s going to be a third one; I don’t know what to do. The second one isn’t repaired yet. Some days, I feel like I should buy a house in some other community,” he shared.

Billions in Damage: The Cost of Hailstorms

The financial toll of these storms is staggering. According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), Alberta has suffered over $6 billion in hail damage during the past five years. Last year alone, Calgary’s hailstorm triggered $3 billion in insurance claims, with vehicles accounting for a third of those losses.

Aaron Sutherland, IBC’s vice-president for the Pacific and Western regions, emphasized the importance of preparation: “It’s imperative that if you have a garage, make sure you get your car in there when you see the weather forecast looking like it is. If you don’t have a garage, then something like a hail-resistant car cover could be a really valuable investment.”

Rethinking How Calgary Builds

With severe weather becoming more frequent, experts are urging a change in how homes and infrastructure are constructed. Sutherland warned, “It needs to be a reminder that we have to change the way we’re building and rebuilding because it no longer makes sense to build in northern Calgary with materials that simply aren’t equipped to withstand the type of weather that’s going to come.”

As Calgary bakes under the summer sun, residents are left hoping that this year’s hail season will be less destructive—but preparing for the worst, just in case.

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

Pompeo Urges Trust in U.S. Amid Annexation Rhetoric at Ottawa Defence Event

Avery
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0
Pompeo Urges Trust in U.S. Amid Annexation Rhetoric at Ottawa Defence Event

Mike Pompeo reassures Canada on sovereignty at Ottawa defence convention, despite Trump’s annexation talk and ongoing trade tensions.

Reassurances Delivered at Defence Industry Gathering

Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo sought to ease Canadian concerns over national sovereignty at the CANSEC defence industry convention in Ottawa on Wednesday. Addressing a crowd of international defence contractors, Pompeo emphasized that Canadians should continue to trust the United States, even as President Donald Trump’s recent rhetoric about annexation and trade disputes has strained relations.

Context of Rising Tensions

The event took place amid heightened sensitivity in Canada, following Trump’s repeated suggestions that Canada could become the “cherished 51st state” and his administration’s imposition of tariffs impacting the Canadian economy. These remarks have stoked a wave of Canadian patriotism and prompted government officials to reaffirm the country’s independence. King Charles’s recent speech in Parliament and Prime Minister Mark Carney’s public statements have both underscored Canada’s sovereignty.

Confidence in Enduring Partnership

Pompeo, who served in Trump’s first administration, told reporters and attendees that he remains confident in the strength of the Canada-U.S. relationship. He dismissed the idea that Canadians should feel threatened by U.S. rhetoric, stating, “Canadians ought to trust the United States in the same way Americans ought to trust [Canadians] to be able to survive. I’m convinced, in the sweep of history, that will remain”. He also expressed faith that the Canadian government would do whatever is necessary to protect its sovereignty.

Defence and Economic Shifts

The former secretary’s remarks came as Canada signals a shift in its defence procurement strategy. Prime Minister Carney has announced plans to increase defence spending and reduce reliance on American arms manufacturers, aiming instead to join the European Union’s $1.25-trillion rearmament plan. Pompeo acknowledged Carney’s stance as a leader standing up for his country, but he also highlighted the advantages of American technology and innovation for Canadian defence.

The Missile Defence Debate

The convention was also marked by Trump’s recent social media claim that joining the U.S. “Golden Dome” missile defence plan would cost Canada $61 billion, but “zero” if the country joined the U.S. itself. The Prime Minister’s Office rejected the suggestion, and Defence Minister David McGuinty reiterated Canada’s commitment to acting in its own best interests. Pompeo, while not confirming the accuracy of the $61 billion figure, noted that missile defence across North America would be a significant technical and financial challenge, and likely worth the investment.

Looking Ahead

Despite the current tensions, Pompeo’s message was clear: the Canada-U.S. alliance is resilient, and both nations are expected to act in their own interests while maintaining trust and cooperation. As Canada debates its defence future and navigates political rhetoric from its southern neighbor, the enduring partnership between the two countries remains a central theme for leaders on both sides of the border.

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

Canada Post Reports $1.3B Loss as Revenue Falls, Strike Looms

James
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0
Canada Post Reports $1.3B Loss as Revenue Falls, Strike Looms

Canada Post posts $1.3B operating loss in 2024, citing declines in letter and parcel revenue and ongoing strike threats amid calls for urgent reform.

Deepening Losses Highlight Urgent Challenges

Canada Post has reported an operating loss of nearly $1.3 billion for 2024, with its annual report revealing steep declines in both letter mail and parcel revenue. The Crown corporation’s losses before tax totaled $841 million after accounting for the sale of certain business ventures, marking its seventh consecutive year in the red and bringing total losses since 2018 to over $3.8 billion.

Declining Revenue and Competitive Pressures

The financial blow was driven by an $800 million, or 12.2%, drop in annual revenue compared to 2023, with both traditional letter mail and parcels hit hard. Parcel delivery revenue alone fell by $683 million, as Canada Post continued to lose ground to private-sector competitors offering more flexible and cost-effective services. The corporation’s CEO, Doug Ettinger, warned that the current business model, built for a “bygone era of letter mail,” is no longer sustainable.

Impact of Labour Disruptions

A 32-day national postal strike late in 2024 further deepened the losses, contributing a net negative impact of $208 million to the year’s results. The strike, which ended only after federal intervention, drove many customers to alternative carriers—many of whom have yet to return. Canada Post continues to face uncertainty as another potential strike looms, with the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) recently issuing a new strike notice.

Calls for Reform and Government Response

The federal government has provided up to $1.034 billion in repayable funding to keep Canada Post solvent through March 2026, but officials and outside experts stress that structural reforms are urgently needed. Recommendations from a recent commission include ending door-to-door delivery and allowing part-time weekend workers to better compete with private carriers. Public Works Minister Joël Lightbound has urged both Canada Post and the union to negotiate a solution at the bargaining table, signaling no immediate government intervention.

Erosion of Customer Confidence

Small business owners, such as Victoria-based Scott Wingfield, report shifting away from Canada Post due to reliability concerns during and after the strike. Experts warn that if Canada Post cannot regain lost customers, financial losses may continue to mount into 2025 and beyond.

Outlook

With falling revenues, rising competition, and unresolved labour disputes, Canada Post faces mounting pressure to modernize its operations and secure its future as a vital national service. The corporation’s leadership and stakeholders agree: the status quo is no longer an option.

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

Vancouver’s Best Speakeasies: 5 Hidden Bars to Discover

Henry
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Vancouver’s Best Speakeasies: 5 Hidden Bars to Discover

Step Into Vancouver’s Secret Speakeasy Scene

Gone are the days of bathtub gin and whispered passwords. Today, Vancouver’s speakeasies offer a blend of mystery, style, and inventive cocktails—each hidden behind clever facades and brimming with vintage charm. If you’re craving a night out that feels like a well-kept secret, these five speakeasies deliver the intrigue and atmosphere you’re after.

1. Call Me Back

Where: Lions Pub, 888 W. Cordova St., Vancouver
When: Tues–Sat, 5 p.m. until late

Step through a classic red British phone booth in the Lions Pub and enter a plush, retro-inspired hideaway. With room for just 22 guests, Call Me Back offers small plates, signature cocktails, and an intimate, rose-filled setting that feels worlds away from the busy city outside.

2. Key Party

Where: 2305 Main St., Vancouver
When: Sun–Thurs, 5 p.m.–1 a.m.; Fri–Sat, 5 p.m.–2 a.m.

Hidden behind a faux accounting office, Key Party is the brainchild of David Duprey. Inside, you’ll find a playful 1970s vibe, cheeky cocktail names, and a menu that’s as bold as the décor. It’s the perfect spot for those who love a little drama with their drinks.

3. The Gemm

Where: 1815 Commercial Dr., inside Park Drive Restaurant, Vancouver
When: Thurs–Sat, 6 p.m. until close

Tucked behind velvet curtains within Park Drive, The Gemm transforms a neighborhood hangout into a cozy, tiki-inspired bar. Enjoy creative cocktails, wine, beer, and tasty bites like grilled halloumi and shishito peppers—all in a hidden, laid-back setting.

4. Ama Raw Bar

Where: 3980 Fraser St., Vancouver
When: Thurs–Sun, 6 p.m.–1 a.m.

This windowless, warmly lit lounge is easy to miss—its sign only glows after dark. Ama Raw Bar serves up inventive cocktails and a menu packed with raw bar favorites, uni pasta, and even wagyu burgers. After 10 p.m., it turns into a lively neighborhood hot spot with DJs and live music.

5. Hidden Wonders Speakeasy Magic Experience

Where: Secret location, New Westminster
When: Thurs–Sun, 7 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.

For a twist on the classic speakeasy, book a ticket to Hidden Wonders. Once you secure your spot, you’ll receive the secret address for this intimate 30-seat venue. Enjoy a world-class magic show by Shawn Farquhar, with snacks like popcorn and soda. Tickets sell out fast, so plan ahead!

Vancouver’s speakeasy scene is thriving, offering hidden gems for every taste. Whether you’re after craft cocktails, cozy corners, or a touch of magic, these secret bars promise an unforgettable night out.

10 All-Inclusive Resorts in Canada for Unforgettable Escapes

Henry
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10 All-Inclusive Resorts in Canada for Unforgettable Escapes

Canada’s Best All-Inclusive Resorts: Beyond the Beach Vacation

Who says you need palm trees and sandy shores for the ultimate getaway? Canada’s all-inclusive resorts offer adventure, luxury, and relaxation—no passport required. From wild Pacific islands to tranquil woodland retreats, these destinations prove paradise is closer than you think.

1. Sonora Resort, British Columbia

Accessible only by boat or helicopter, Sonora Resort is a nature lover’s dream. Watch for eagles and orcas from your private deck, hike through ancient forests, or unwind in oceanside mineral pools. All-inclusive packages cover gourmet meals, drinks, and access to top-tier amenities.

2. Hope-Wellness Eco-Resort, New Brunswick

Minutes from the iconic Hopewell Rocks, this cozy eco-resort features cabins with private patios and wood-fired hot tubs. Choose between wellness or wine-focused packages and enjoy Nordic spa amenities, yoga, and farm-to-table dinners in a relaxed, social setting.

3. Spa Eastman, Quebec

Wellness feels fun at Spa Eastman, where all-inclusive packages include health-focused meals, spa treatments, and even workcation options. Recharge with Nordic spa sessions, personalized care, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

4. Ste. Anne’s Spa, Ontario

Step into a stunning 19th-century castle surrounded by rolling countryside. Ste. Anne’s Spa pampers guests with botanical treatments, hydrotherapy pools, and gourmet gluten-free cuisine. Overnight packages include meals, spa credits, and full use of the facilities.

5. Echo Valley Ranch, British Columbia

Experience the perfect blend of Thai elegance and cowboy charm. Ride horses, hike to waterfalls, and relax with Thai massages—all included. Evenings bring campfire stories and gourmet dining in the heart of the Cariboo Mountains.

6. Trout Point Lodge, Nova Scotia

Deep in the Tobeatic Wilderness, this adults-only lodge offers refined forest living. Enjoy gourmet meals, guided nature walks, and stargazing sessions. Upgrade to a wellness package for in-suite massages and private forest bathing.

7. Club Med Québec Charlevoix, Quebec

Adventure meets luxury at this year-round mountain resort. Included ski lessons, yoga, gourmet dining, and childcare mean you can focus on fun, not logistics. Enjoy the open bar and endless activities for all ages.

8. Shamrock Lodge, Ontario

Relive classic cottage summers at this family-run Muskoka resort. All meals, water sports, nightly bonfires, and daily entertainment are included, making it easy to unplug and enjoy lakeside living.

9. Nature Space Resort & Retreat Centre, Prince Edward Island

This woodland retreat blends eco-friendly cabins with farm-to-table dining, guided kayaking, and stargazing. Choose packages focused on creativity, wellness, or relaxation for a truly mindful escape.

10. Couples Resort, Ontario

For romance and relaxation, Couples Resort delivers adults-only luxury on the edge of Algonquin Park. Enjoy private hot tubs, gourmet meals, and spa treatments—plus endless opportunities for wilderness adventure.

From wild coastal islands to serene forests, Canada’s all-inclusive resorts offer year-round escapes that rival any tropical getaway. Pack your bags and discover your new favorite retreat!

Cheesy Baked Risotto: A Gluten-Free Italian Comfort Classic

Henry
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Cheesy Baked Risotto: A Gluten-Free Italian Comfort Classic

Indulge in Cheesy Comfort With Baked Risotto (Riso al Forno)

Looking for a cozy, gluten-free alternative to pasta? Riso al Forno, an Italian baked risotto, delivers rich tomato flavor and plenty of gooey cheese in every bite. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering comfort food vibes with a Mediterranean twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 500 g (17.6 oz) Italian Carnaroli rice

  • 1 x 28 oz (1 3/4 lb) can whole Italian tomatoes

  • 3 cups (750 mL) vegetable broth

  • 1/2 onion, finely chopped

  • 8 tbsp (120 mL) olive oil

  • 2 tbsp (30 mL) butter

  • Salt, to taste

  • 1 lb (454 g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

  • 3/4 cup (180 mL) grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

  • 12 fresh basil leaves

  • 1/2 cup (125 mL) breadcrumbs

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prep:
    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush a 9×12-inch baking dish with olive oil and coat the bottom and sides with breadcrumbs.

  2. Make the Sauce:
    Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Blend the tomatoes, then add them to the pan with a pinch of salt. Simmer for 10 minutes.

  3. Cook the Rice:
    Stir in the rice, then gradually add vegetable broth while stirring to prevent sticking. Continue cooking and stirring for about 20 minutes, until the rice is al dente.

  4. Mix in Cheese:
    Remove from heat. Stir in butter and half of the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano.

  5. Layer the Risotto:
    Spread half the rice mixture in the prepared baking dish, pressing down gently. Add mozzarella slices and torn basil leaves. Top with the remaining rice, press gently, and sprinkle with more breadcrumbs and the rest of the Parmigiano-Reggiano.

  6. Bake & Broil:
    Bake uncovered for 20 minutes. Broil for an additional 5 minutes to create a crispy, golden top.

Serve and Enjoy!

This baked risotto serves 6–8 people and is best enjoyed hot out of the oven. Pair it with a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

For more delicious Italian recipes, follow cookbook author Maria Fazzari Larosa (@mariascucina) on Instagram.

Bring a taste of Italy to your table with this rich, cheesy, and utterly satisfying baked risotto—comfort food at its finest!

Vancouver Spot Prawn Festival: 5 Must-Know Facts for 2025

Henry
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Vancouver Spot Prawn Festival: 5 Must-Know Facts for 2025

Everything You Need to Know About Vancouver’s Spot Prawn Festival

Vancouver’s love affair with spot prawns is back in full swing as the annual Spot Prawn Festival returns to Fishermen’s Wharf in False Creek. Here’s what makes this crustacean celebration a can’t-miss event for seafood lovers and sustainability fans alike.

1. Spot Prawns Are Bigger—and More Popular—Than Ever

When the festival launched in 2006, spot prawns were a hidden gem. Fast forward to today, and they’re a Vancouver staple. Demand has soared so much that locals now snap them up as soon as the season starts, driving up prices and making spot prawns a true delicacy.

2. The Season Is Short and Sweet

Spot prawn season is a fleeting treat, lasting just four to six weeks each year. These impressive crustaceans are the largest shrimp in B.C. waters, reaching over 20 cm. Careful fishery management and a limited season help keep the population healthy and the catch sustainable.

3. Top Chefs and Tasty Experiences Await

The festival isn’t just about buying fresh spot prawns—it’s a showcase for Vancouver’s best chefs. Enjoy ticketed dishes like Spot Prawn Bisque and a chef-led brunch, or watch live cooking demos for tips on preparing spot prawns at home. You can also buy live prawns straight from local fishers.

4. Sustainability Is at the Heart of the Festival

The Spot Prawn Festival is as much about protecting the ocean as it is about enjoying its bounty. Organized by the Chefs’ Table Society and Pacific Prawn Fishermen’s Association, the event highlights efforts to keep the fishery sustainable, protect marine habitats, and adapt to challenges like climate change and conservation zones.

5. Spot Prawn Fever Takes Over Vancouver

From high-end restaurants to local seafood markets, spot prawns are everywhere during the season. Chefs across the city rush to feature them on their menus, and events like Steveston’s Spot Prawn Day and EatFish.ca’s Park ‘n Prawn drive-up make it easy for everyone to join the celebration.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the craze, Vancouver’s Spot Prawn Festival is the perfect way to taste, learn, and support local, sustainable seafood. Don’t miss your chance to go crustacean crazy this season!

Spot Prawn Festival 2025
May 25, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Fishermen’s Wharf, False Creek, Vancouver
spotprawnfestival.com

Musk ‘Disappointed’ by Trump’s Signature Bill That May Add $600B to Deficit

James
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Musk ‘Disappointed’ by Trump’s Signature Bill That May Add $600B to Deficit

Elon Musk publicly criticizes Trump’s tax-and-spend bill, citing deficit concerns and a break from cost-cutting efforts.

In a striking departure from past alignment, Elon Musk has criticized former U.S. President Donald Trump’s flagship tax and spending bill—legislation that could significantly increase the U.S. budget deficit. Musk, who played a notable role in Trump’s successful 2024 re-election campaign, expressed “disappointment” over the multi-trillion-dollar package passed narrowly by the U.S. House of Representatives last week.

The bill, which Trump hailed as his “big, beautiful” legislation, features extended tax cuts, expanded defense funding, and a proposed $4 trillion debt ceiling. It now awaits Senate consideration.

Musk: “It Increases the Deficit”

Speaking in an interview with CBS Sunday Morning, Musk didn’t mince words. “I was disappointed to see the massive spending bill, frankly,” he said in a preview clip aired before the full segment. “It increases the budget deficit, not just decreases it,” he added.

The bill could inflate the national deficit by an estimated $600 billion in the coming fiscal year, raising concerns even among fiscal conservatives.

Doge Initiative Undermined, Musk Says

Musk, who was previously tapped as Trump’s “cost-cutting tsar,” had led the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge)—an advisory group aimed at curbing federal expenditures. According to Musk, the bill directly contradicts Doge’s objectives.

“It undermines the work that the Doge team is doing,” he said, highlighting what he sees as a reversal of efforts to rein in government waste. Using Trump’s own words against him, Musk added: “A bill can be big or beautiful. I don’t know if it can be both.”

Growing Fractures Within Republican Ranks

The legislation faced internal hurdles within the Republican Party, with multiple factions expressing discomfort over its size and scope. While Trump continues to tout the benefits of extending his 2017-era tax cuts and boosting military readiness, he also acknowledged “not being happy” about certain elements of the bill.

Notably, Trump avoided directly responding to Musk’s remarks when questioned by reporters in the Oval Office.

From Political Donor to Reluctant Critic

Musk’s criticism signals more than a policy disagreement—it reflects a broader shift in his political engagement. The billionaire reportedly contributed over $250 million to Trump’s 2024 campaign and had championed efforts to reduce federal spending by $1 trillion through contract cancellations and workforce reductions.

As of April, Doge’s website claimed $175 billion in savings, though independent analysis, including one by the BBC, casts doubt on the accuracy of those figures.

Pulling Back from Politics, Refocusing on Tesla

In the same interview, Musk revealed he plans to step back from political spending and reaffirmed his commitment to Tesla, pledging to lead the electric car maker for another five years. His dual roles—tech mogul and political influencer—have led to boycotts, protests, and even declining Tesla sales in recent months.

Despite the criticism and fallout, Musk defended his controversial tenure as Doge chief: “I did what needed to be done.”

The Road Ahead

As the bill heads to the Senate, Musk’s intervention adds fuel to the growing debate around fiscal responsibility and political priorities within the GOP. Whether his break with Trump marks a turning point or a temporary pause remains to be seen.

Stay connected to Maple News Wire for the latest updates on U.S. politics, fiscal policy, and more.

Glacier Collapse Destroys Swiss Village Blatten, Sparks Fears Across the Alps

Nicole
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0
Glacier Collapse Destroys Swiss Village Blatten, Sparks Fears Across the Alps

A glacier collapse devastates the Swiss village of Blatten, highlighting the growing risks from climate change in the Alps.

The quiet alpine village of Blatten, nestled in the Swiss canton of Valais, has been devastated following the collapse of the Birch glacier. Drone footage captured the chilling moment when a massive wall of ice, rock, and mud thundered into the valley on Wednesday afternoon, burying much of the settlement.

Although residents had been evacuated on May 19 after warnings from geologists, authorities have confirmed that one person remains missing, and several homes have been completely flattened.

Mayor: “The Unimaginable Has Happened”

Blatten’s mayor, Matthias Bellwald, described the scene as heartbreaking. “We have lost our village, but not our heart,” he told reporters. His voice cracked as he added, “After a long night, it will be morning again.”

The emotional toll is compounded by the uncertain future facing the village’s 300 displaced residents, many of whom may never return home.

Military Assistance and National Response Mobilized

Local authorities have called in the Swiss army’s disaster relief unit, and several members of the federal government are en route to assess the damage and coordinate recovery efforts.

The Swiss government has pledged funding to support the affected population, promising to help them rebuild their lives in nearby areas if Blatten proves uninhabitable.

Climate Change Accelerates Alpine Risks

Experts say the tragedy is part of a disturbing trend. As glaciers melt at record speeds and permafrost thaws, the structural integrity of the Alps is weakening. The Birch glacier had shown signs of instability for weeks—yet even with monitoring, the collapse came with ferocity.

Raphaël Mayoraz, head of the regional Natural Hazards Office, cautioned that further evacuations may be necessary in surrounding areas, as the land remains unstable.

Not an Isolated Incident

Blatten is not alone in its vulnerability. In 2023, the village of Brienz was evacuated due to landslide risks. And in 2017, eight hikers were killed when a massive landslide struck near Bondo, the deadliest such event in over a century.

These incidents point to a growing pattern of climate-linked disasters in the Alps.

Vanishing Glaciers and Rising Threats

Switzerland’s most recent glaciology report warns that all of the country’s glaciers could vanish within a century, should global temperatures continue to rise above the 1.5°C limit set by the Paris Agreement. Many scientists believe that target has already been missed, making further disasters not just possible—but probable.

As warming continues, the Alps may face more flooding, landslides, and the slow disappearance of communities like Blatten.

Blatten’s destruction is not just a local tragedy; it is a stark warning about the wider climate emergency unfolding across Europe’s highlands.

Stay connected to Maple News Wire for ongoing updates on this developing story and in-depth coverage on climate-related events affecting communities worldwide.
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