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Monsoon Festival Marks 10 Years of South Asian Arts in BC

From Aug. 7–17, the Monsoon Festival celebrates 10 years of South Asian culture in Surrey and Vancouver with theatre, comedy, dance, and exhibitions.

A Decade of Monsoon Festival Celebrated Across Surrey and Vancouver

This August, Surrey and Vancouver will come alive with the colours, sounds, and stories of South Asian culture as the Monsoon Festival of Performing Arts returns for its 10th year. Running from August 7 to 17, the annual festival features a rich blend of theatre, comedy, dance, and visual art—marking a major milestone for British Columbia’s arts scene.

Honouring 20 Years of the South Asian Arts Society

The 2024 edition is especially meaningful, as it also marks 20 years since the founding of the South Asian Arts Society, the group behind the festival. Established in 2005, the Society has spent two decades promoting South Asian voices and stories across B.C.
“This is a monumental year for us,” said Gurpreet Sian, co-founder and producer. “It’s not just a celebration of the festival’s growth, but of the artists and communities that have shaped it.”

Theatre Weekend Brings Cultural Narratives to Surrey

Surrey plays host to two standout theatrical events during the first weekend:

  • “Gemini” – an immersive, site-specific theatrical experience
  • “Sikligar” – a Punjabi-language poetic drama by Bir Btaalvi, staged on August 9 at the Surrey Arts Centre Studio Theatre

“Sikligar” explores the emotional journey of Akash, a South Asian immigrant grappling with memory, identity, and displacement. Through symbolic storytelling and live music, the play offers a powerful reflection on the immigrant experience.

Comedy Takes the Spotlight with The Comic Singh

On August 16, popular comedian Manpreet Singh, also known as The Comic Singh, headlines a family-friendly comedy night at the Surrey Arts Centre. Singh, a former pizza delivery driver turned global entertainer, brings sharp wit and heartfelt stories to the stage, offering a lighter yet meaningful addition to the festival lineup.

Dance Classes and Cultural Archives Enrich the Experience

The festival also invites the community to take part in by-donation dance workshops on August 10 and 17 at the South Asian Arts Studio in Newton, led by instructors Raja Singh and Rohan D’Silva. Registration is open at monsoonartsfest.ca.

Meanwhile, the Surrey Art Gallery is hosting “20 Years of South Asian Arts: A Photographic Journey” from August 2 to November 2. This special exhibit showcases the Society’s legacy through powerful archival images of past performances, artists, and community moments.

Festival Launches in Vancouver

The celebration officially begins on August 7 with a launch event at The Cultch Historic Theatre in Vancouver. The opening night sets the tone for 11 days of cross-cultural exchange, artistic exploration, and community connection across both cities.

For the full schedule, tickets, and event details, visit monsoonartsfest.ca.

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

Canadians Fall Early at National Bank Open in Montreal

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Kayla Cross, Ariana Arseneault, and Dan Martin exit early as Eugenie Bouchard begins her farewell tournament at the National Bank Open in Montreal.

Canadian Hopes Dimmed in Opening Round

Canada’s early dreams at the 2025 National Bank Open were dealt a major blow on Monday as Kayla Cross and Ariana Arseneault were eliminated in first-round action at Montreal’s IGA Stadium. Their defeats came ahead of Eugenie Bouchard’s emotional farewell match in her final professional tournament.

Cross and Arseneault Outclassed in Early Matches

Kayla Cross of London, Ontario, lost a tough three-set battle against Russia’s Kamilla Rakhimova, despite taking the opening set 6-4. The 20-year-old Canadian, ranked 151st globally, was overpowered in the second and third sets, losing 6-3, 6-2 in a match lasting 1 hour and 55 minutes. This marked her first career meeting with the 62nd-ranked Russian on the WTA Tour.

Meanwhile, Ariana Arseneault of Richmond Hill faced former world No. 1 Naomi Osaka and struggled to gain traction, falling 6-4, 6-2. Osaka now advances to face Russia’s Liudmila Samsonova in the second round.

Bouchard’s Farewell Takes Centre Stage

The spotlight turned to Montreal native Eugenie Bouchard on Monday night. The 31-year-old, who announced her retirement earlier this summer, kicked off her final WTA event in her hometown. Bouchard, a former world No. 5, faced Colombia’s Emiliana Arango in a sentimental match that attracted a large local crowd eager to bid farewell.

Bouchard, who helped put Canadian women’s tennis on the map, was praised in the build-up to the tournament for inspiring a new generation of players.

Other Canadian Women Make Strong Starts

Despite the early exits, several Canadian women found success in their opening-round matches. Bianca Andreescu, Victoria Mboko, and Rebecca Marino advanced to the second round on Sunday. However, Andreescu’s status remains uncertain after she appeared to injure her left ankle during her win over Barbora Krejcikova.

Carson Branstine, representing Canada through family ties in Toronto, was also set to compete in a high-profile match against Greece’s Maria Sakkari late Monday night.

Martin Falls in Toronto Men’s Draw

In Toronto, Canadian qualifier Dan Martin suffered a straight-sets defeat to Spain’s Jaume Munar, falling 6-3, 6-0. The 26-year-old Martin, ranked 560th in the world, managed just 40% of his first-serve points and failed to generate a single break opportunity.

Munar, ranked 51st, displayed dominance with six aces and five service breaks, finishing the match in just over an hour.

More Canadians to Compete in Main Draw

Later in the day, two more Canadians were scheduled to take the court. Liam Draxl of Newmarket, Ontario, prepared to face Spain’s Pablo Carreño Busta, while Laval native Alexis Galarneau was slated to meet Arthur Rinderknech of France.

As the tournament progresses, Canadian fans now look to their remaining representatives for a resurgence in both Montreal and Toronto.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

Surrey Greenlights $2M Skylight Overhaul at Police HQ

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Surrey council approves $2M contract for urgent skylight and glazing repairs at SPS Newton HQ due to critical leaks and aging infrastructure.

City Council Approves Major Repair at Surrey Police HQ

Surrey City Council has approved a $2 million upgrade to the Surrey Police Service (SPS) headquarters in Newton, aimed at addressing severe skylight and structural issues. The decision was made on July 28, with The Restorers Group Inc. awarded the $1.89 million contract. The overall project budget is capped at $2,086,780.

Urgent Replacement of Skylight and Glazing Systems

The approved project involves the complete replacement of deteriorating skylights and vertical curtain wall glazing at the SPS building. The aging structure has suffered repeated water leaks and shows signs of significant structural wear, prompting city officials to take immediate action.

Structural Failures Prompt Action

Joey Brar, Surrey’s general manager of Corporate Services, presented findings from an envelope engineering assessment. “The consultant identified that the existing skylight and curtain wall systems are at or near the end of their service life, with numerous failures,” Brar stated. The report underscored the urgency of the upgrade to avoid further damage and ensure the building remains safe and functional.

Engineering Review Highlights Risks

The technical evaluation revealed advanced wear and multiple points of failure in the skylight assembly. If left unaddressed, these issues could impact the building’s integrity, increase repair costs, and pose safety risks for staff working in the facility.

Contractor Selection and Fiscal Oversight

The Restorers Group Inc. was selected through a competitive bidding process, with the contract covering both materials and labor. The city allocated a contingency fund within the budget to manage unexpected site conditions or supply chain disruptions. Council members emphasized the importance of transparency and cost control throughout the project.

Investment in Public Infrastructure

The skylight replacement is part of Surrey’s long-term plan to modernize municipal facilities and maintain safe, energy-efficient environments. City officials noted that timely upgrades like this support both operational needs and financial sustainability by reducing future maintenance burdens.

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

Sean Feucht Concert Cancellations Spark Free Speech Debate

U.S. Christian artist Sean Feucht’s canceled Canadian concerts raise concerns among experts over freedom of expression and government overreach.

Musician’s Tour Halted Amid Rising Political Tensions

U.S.-based Christian musician and activist Sean Feucht is at the center of a growing free speech controversy in Canada after multiple municipalities revoked permits for his public concerts. The decisions have reignited debate over the limits of freedom of expression, especially in public spaces, and whether governments are resorting to censorship under the guise of public safety.

Permit Revocations Across Eastern and Central Canada

In the past two weeks, concert permits for Feucht’s Canadian tour were cancelled in cities including Halifax, Charlottetown, Moncton, Quebec City, Gatineau, and Vaughan. Officials cited safety and security concerns, though critics argue the cancellations were politically motivated due to Feucht’s controversial views on abortion, 2SLGBTQ+ rights, critical race theory, and his vocal support for Donald Trump’s MAGA movement.

While the City of Montreal attempted to block a performance at a local church, the concert proceeded. The church now faces a $2,500 fine for holding the event without a permit.

Charter Rights in the Crosshairs, Say Experts

James Turk, Director of the Centre for Free Expression at Toronto Metropolitan University, warned that revoking access to public spaces based on unpopular or controversial views can erode democratic principles. “Freedom of expression is fundamental. We restrict it only in extreme cases,” Turk said. “Citing vague safety concerns without clear, substantiated threats undermines the Charter.”

Stephen Newman, professor emeritus at York University, called it a potential case of a “heckler’s veto,” where authorities suppress speech due to public backlash, rather than ensuring safety and dialogue. “Suppressing speech because of anticipated protests is a dangerous precedent,” he added.

Political Support and Public Backlash

Feucht has found support among some Canadian conservatives, including MPs Michael Barrett and Andrew Lawton, who say the concert cancellations reflect growing intolerance toward conservative and religious voices. They argue that denying permits infringes on basic rights to free speech and peaceful assembly.

Still, many Canadians, particularly advocacy groups, argue that public spaces should not host figures who promote divisive rhetoric, especially if those views contradict values of inclusion and equality.

Western Canada Tour Plans Continue

Despite the pushback, Feucht’s team confirmed the tour will continue in Western Canada in late August, with planned stops in Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Edmonton, Kelowna, and Abbotsford. It remains unclear whether those cities will allow the events to proceed or face similar calls for cancellation.

As Feucht’s presence grows more polarizing, the incident is prompting Canadians to reexamine the balance between upholding freedom of expression and managing public order in an era of increasingly divided social values.

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

Air Canada Profit Drops Amid Weak U.S. Travel Demand

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Turbulence Hits Second-Quarter Earnings

Air Canada’s second-quarter profit took a noticeable hit as U.S. travel demand faltered. The airline, Canada’s largest, is feeling the ripple effects of growing tensions between the two countries, which have strained both trade and tourism.

Passenger traffic to the United States — a major market for the airline — dropped significantly. The slowdown comes at a time when demand usually surges, making the blow even sharper for the carrier.

Canadians Avoid U.S. Amid Trade Disputes

Tensions between Ottawa and Washington have grown this year. Following U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade tariffs and controversial remarks suggesting Canada should be annexed, many Canadians began cancelling U.S. trips. Alongside that, there’s been a sharp decline in purchases of U.S.-made products.

This boycott-like behaviour didn’t just affect stores — it reshaped travel plans. Traditionally, summer means full flights and booming business. But this year, the mood shifted, and so did passenger volumes.

Domestic Gains Offer Some Cushion

Interestingly, while U.S. demand weakened, the trend brought a silver lining for Canada’s tourism sector. More Canadians opted to vacation at home. Hotels, resorts, and local attractions benefited from this shift.

Recent June data showed increased activity across domestic destinations, giving the hospitality sector a welcome boost. These “elbows-up” vacations — referring to bustling homegrown travel — are slowly reshaping Canada’s internal tourism map.

Strategic Moves Ahead Despite Setback

Despite the earnings dip, Air Canada remains optimistic. For the upcoming third quarter, it plans to expand available seat miles (ASM) capacity by 3.25% to 3.75% compared to last year. This suggests a confident push toward recovery and growth, even in a complex geopolitical climate.

The carrier still saw total operating revenue rise slightly, hitting $5.63 billion, up from $5.52 billion last year. However, profit per share slipped from 98 cents to 60 cents, marking a significant decline.

Looking Forward, With Eyes on Policy Shifts

While the profit dip highlights a rough patch, Air Canada’s future strategy will depend heavily on policy trends and traveler sentiment. If trade relations ease, a rebound in cross-border demand could follow. Until then, the airline appears set to maximize domestic and alternative international markets.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for more updates on Canada’s aviation industry and economic shifts.

Deion Sanders Reveals Cancer Battle, Set to Coach in 2025

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Coach Deion Sanders shares bladder cancer diagnosis, confirms he is cured and will lead Colorado Buffaloes this football season despite health challenges.

Sanders Returns to Sidelines After Cancer Surgery

Deion Sanders, head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes, announced on July 28, 2025, that he was diagnosed with aggressive bladder cancer but has been declared cured following surgery. The 57-year-old football icon confirmed he will coach the upcoming NCAA season, defying months of speculation about his health and future on the sidelines.

Medical Journey and Resilience

Sanders underwent bladder removal surgery at UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital under the care of Dr. Janet Kukreja, director of urologic oncology. A portion of his intestine was reconstructed to function as a bladder. Sanders will not require chemotherapy or radiation, which Dr. Kukreja called a “fortunate early detection case.”

“This wasn’t a cakewalk,” Sanders told reporters at a press conference in Boulder, Colorado, where he appeared alongside his medical team. “That was a fight, but we made it.”

Determination to Coach Remained Unshaken

Despite the diagnosis and extensive recovery process, Sanders never doubted his return to coaching. “It was never in my spirit that I wouldn’t be back,” he said. Sanders, who enters his third year with the Buffaloes, reaffirmed his commitment to the program on the eve of fall training camp.

Buffaloes athletic director Rick George echoed the sentiment: “He’s so positive. I had every confidence he’d return.”

Support from Friends and Football Community

Sanders revealed that he received constant support from family and friends, including NFL Hall of Famer Randy Moss, who also battled cancer recently. Moss regularly checked in and offered prayers and encouragement, reinforcing the strong bond within the sports community.

In a lighter moment, Sanders joked about having to draft a will during treatment. “I got to rank my kids,” he laughed, before emphasizing the importance of getting affairs in order during serious health events.

Early Detection Saved His Life

Sanders credits a routine CT scan — done annually due to his history with blood clots — for the early discovery of the cancer. “The ‘C’ word usually means a life sentence,” Sanders said. “But not this time.”

Dr. Kukreja confirmed the cancer was caught early enough for a full surgical cure, noting, “I don’t use the word ‘cure’ lightly.”

Back with the Team, Ready for the Season

Returning to campus last week, Sanders posted a video titled “Back and Feeling Great!” The coach appeared in good spirits in footage released by Well Off Media, sharing a heartfelt moment with his team after months away.

The Buffaloes’ 2025 season kicks off on August 29 at home against Georgia Tech. It will be Sanders’ first season not coaching one of his sons — Shedeur Sanders was drafted by the Cleveland Browns, while Shilo Sanders is currently in camp with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Looking Ahead

Despite past health setbacks — including amputated toes and surgeries to correct blood clots — Sanders signed a contract extension through 2029. His remarkable comeback is a testament to his determination and spirit, both on and off the field.

“Coach Prime” is ready to lead once again — this time, with even greater purpose.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

Man Charged with Murder After Fatal Siksika Hit-and-Run

RCMP charge 27-year-old with murder after a hit-and-run on Siksika Nation kills two and leaves one woman in critical condition.

Two Lives Lost in Siksika Nation Tragedy

A devastating hit-and-run on Siksika Nation Saturday night has left two people dead and one woman critically injured. According to RCMP, a vehicle struck a group of five pedestrians and then fled the scene, prompting a widespread investigation.

Victims Identified by Authorities

The victims were identified as 27-year-old Trayton Runningbird and 45-year-old Clifton Saddleback. Both men succumbed to injuries sustained in the collision. A 45-year-old woman, also hit during the incident, remains in critical condition at a nearby hospital. Police have not released the names of the other two pedestrians.

Arrest Made and Charges Laid

On Monday evening, Alberta RCMP’s Major Crimes Unit announced the arrest of 27-year-old Adolphus Weaselchild. He has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder and one count of attempted murder in connection to the fatal incident.

Legal Proceedings Underway

Following his arrest, Weaselchild appeared before a Justice of the Peace and has since been remanded into custody. Future court dates will be scheduled at the Alberta Court of Justice in Drumheller. The investigation remains ongoing, with RCMP appealing for any witnesses or video footage from the area.

Community Impact and Ongoing Response

The Siksika Nation, located east of Calgary, is mourning the loss of two community members as leaders call for justice and healing. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the collision to come forward as they continue to piece together the events that led to the fatal hit-and-run.

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

Windsor’s 2024 Homeless Count Surges to 672 Individuals

Windsor’s 2024 homeless count reveals 672 individuals, more than double previous figures, prompting urgent discussion on housing and support strategies.

Windsor Sees Alarming Rise in Homeless Population

Windsor’s 2024 federally mandated “point-in-time” count identified 672 homeless individuals — a stark rise compared to the 251 counted in 2021. The results, shared in a city council report on July 29, mark the most comprehensive snapshot of local homelessness to date.

Broader Survey Period Captures Deeper Picture

Unlike previous counts conducted over a single week, the 2024 count was carried out over four weeks in October by an external consultant. It included individuals in emergency shelters, transitional housing, institutions, and unsheltered locations such as parks and encampments. Officials say this extended timeframe contributed to a more complete, though sobering, picture.

City Officials Warn of Growing Trend

Kelly Goz, Windsor’s manager of homelessness and housing support, emphasized that while methodology changes played a role in the higher figure, the upward trend is real. “Early intervention measures and working upstream are what’s going to get us ahead of this curve,” she told council. Acting commissioner Dana Paladino echoed that sentiment, noting, “There probably is an increase in homelessness. It’s a challenge we’re seeing across Canada.”

Key Demographics Highlight Systemic Issues

Survey data revealed that 62% of the homeless population is male, with 57% being single men aged 25–49. A growing segment — 35 individuals — were 60 or older, up from just nine in 2021. Notably, 41% of respondents said they first experienced homelessness by age 24, pointing to early-life instability as a significant driver.

Causes: Income, Conflict, and Complex Factors

Among those who shared the causes of their homelessness, 27% cited income issues, while 21% reported relationship conflict. Others mentioned escaping unsafe environments, landlord disputes, or re-entering society after incarceration. Though mental health and substance use were commonly mentioned, most did not cite them as primary causes.

Chronic Homelessness and Personal Stories

The report identified 279 individuals meeting the federal definition of chronic homelessness. One such individual, Kenroy Drummond, currently staying at the Downtown Mission, shared his battle with addiction. “Every time I do it, I do it to numb how I feel,” he said, describing a cycle that has cost him family and stability.

Community Impact and Influx Concerns

Ward 8 Councillor Gary Kaschak raised concerns about an influx of individuals from outside Windsor, noting that 19% of respondents had arrived within a year. However, Goz clarified that most surveyed had been Windsor residents for over a decade, and roughly 10 vulnerable individuals leave the city each month for other regions.

What’s Next: More Frequent Counts and Action

Under federal guidelines, Windsor will conduct annual street counts moving forward, with the next scheduled for October 2025. Full-scale surveys like this year’s will take place every three years, with the next set for 2027. City officials and advocates stress the urgency of using this data to guide proactive solutions, especially upstream interventions targeting youth and systemic trauma.

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

Province Takes Over London School Board Amid $32M Deficit

Ontario assumes control of Thames Valley school board as deficit nears $32M, unveiling a strict recovery plan without trustee oversight.

Province Intervenes in London’s Largest School Board

In an unprecedented move, the Ontario government has assumed control of the Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB), citing a soaring deficit and mismanagement of public funds. A budget report released Monday outlines a bleak financial trajectory, with a projected $31.9 million deficit for the 2024-25 fiscal year—nearly double earlier estimates.

Deficit Doubles Despite Provincial Oversight

The report marks the first budget drafted under the direct supervision of provincial appointee Paul Boniferro, who was appointed in April. According to the document, the board’s deficit is “structural,” pointing to a long-term imbalance between revenue and expenditures. Despite provincial rules limiting deficits to one per cent of the total budget—about $12 million for TVDSB—the board’s shortfall has significantly exceeded that cap.

Deep Staff Cuts and Asset Sales Proposed

To correct course, the preliminary 2025-26 budget includes sweeping cuts totalling $9.6 million in operational expenses, including $7 million in salaries and benefits. Approximately 115 full-time equivalent positions are slated for elimination, including nearly 47 roles in teaching, learning support, and library services. Administrative cuts, early childhood educator positions, and educational assistants are also affected. A projected enrolment decline is cited as a key reason for the staffing reductions. The board also hints at future property sales to generate surplus funds, though details remain vague.

Trustees Sidestepped in Budget Planning

The most striking aspect of the budget process is the absence of elected trustee input. Boniferro’s leadership, prompted by a damning external audit and past spending scandals—such as a luxury retreat for senior administrators—marks the first time a provincial supervisor has overridden a school board’s authority in Ontario. He has declined multiple interview requests since his appointment.

Minister Calandra Criticizes Board Mismanagement

Ontario’s Minister of Education, Paul Calandra, expressed frustration over the board’s ongoing financial troubles. In a statement, he said, “This reaffirms just how profoundly trustees failed in their duty to manage public funds and why it was necessary to place the board under supervision.” Calandra added that the situation highlights the need for the ministry to play a more active role in school board governance provincewide.

Uncertain Road Ahead for London’s Public Schools

While interim director of education Bill Tucker previously warned staff of impending cuts, the full scope of the recovery plan is now clear—and stark. The board insists it is prioritizing reductions that preserve classroom quality, yet the depth of the cuts paints a sobering picture for families and staff alike. As the province continues to tighten its grip on school board finances, TVDSB stands as a cautionary tale for educational governance across Ontario.

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

Canadian Troops Deployed to Battle Saskatchewan Wildfires

About 300 Canadian troops arrive in Saskatchewan to support wildfire response, allowing local firefighters to focus on critical high-risk areas.

Military Support Arrives Amid Escalating Wildfires

Around 300 Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel were deployed to Saskatchewan this past weekend to support ongoing wildfire response efforts. The troops, primarily from the 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry in Edmonton, are now operating in several wildfire-affected zones in the northern part of the province.

Strategic Relief for Frontline Firefighters

The military deployment was initiated to relieve overextended provincial firefighting teams, allowing trained Type 1 and 2 firefighters to focus on priority fire zones. “We’re taking pressure off public safety agencies so they can reorient and reprioritize,” said Lt.-Col. Jason Hudson from the central command post in Prince Albert, roughly 360 km northwest of Regina.

CAF troops are handling Type 3 firefighting duties—tasks such as mop-ups, digging ditches, and clearing debris in controlled or contained fire areas.

Coordinated Response in Multiple Hot Zones

Federal assistance was requested on July 23, and troops began arriving within hours to collaborate with the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA). Soldiers are currently operating in four major zones, including Weyakwin, Green Lake, La Loche, and surrounding regions, with Prince Albert serving as the central coordination hub.

“This was one of the quickest domestic reactions I’ve witnessed,” Hudson noted, crediting the rapid joint response between federal and provincial agencies.

Community Safety Remains the Top Priority

With over 60 active wildfires in Saskatchewan, and more than 1.5 million hectares scorched, 12 communities remain under evacuation orders. Thousands have been displaced as authorities continue to monitor and respond to evolving threats.

CAF members have reiterated their commitment to staying on the ground as long as necessary. “Defence and safety of Canadians is our top priority,” Hudson emphasized. “Our troops are eager and energized to help. We’re here until we’re not needed anymore.”

Wildfire Outlook Remains Critical

So far in 2025, Saskatchewan has recorded 404 wildfires—well above the five-year average of 328 for this point in the season. With hot, dry conditions persisting, officials warn that the situation remains volatile and that the combined efforts of civilian agencies and military support are essential to controlling the spread and ensuring public safety.

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