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Amilia Secures $35M to Digitize Community Centres

James
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0
Amilia Secures $35M to Digitize Community Centres

Amilia raises $35M led by Vertu Capital to expand its management software across community centres in North America, following 130% revenue growth since 2022.

Montréal-based tech company Amilia has raised $35 million CAD in fresh funding to amplify its digital platform that helps community centres, recreation agencies, and YMCAs streamline operations. The investment will boost the company’s growth across North America and scale up both its team and technology.

Vertu Capital Leads the Charge with $30.5M Investment

Toronto-based Vertu Capital led the round with a $30.5 million stake, marking its first investment in Québec. Returning backers—Export Development Canada (EDC), the Canadian Business Growth Fund (CBGF), and Investissement Québec (IQ)—also participated, doubling down on their belief in Amilia’s mission.

As part of the deal, Eric Kafka, a partner at Vertu Capital, will join Amilia’s board of directors, signaling a strategic move to expand product offerings and accelerate market penetration.

Tech That Transforms Local Organizations

Founded in 2009, Amilia provides a cloud-based management and payment solution tailored for local organizations such as:

  • YMCAs
  • Jewish Community Centres (JCCs)
  • Parks and Recreation departments
  • Sports and fitness programs

The platform manages registrations, billing, scheduling, reporting, and even facility administration—all from a single interface. With over 1,500 organizations managing operations across 6,600 facilities, Amilia processes nearly $1 billion in annual transactions.

Growth Backed by Impact and Innovation

Amilia’s growth story is nothing short of remarkable: a 130% surge in revenue since 2022. CEO Hugo Lachance emphasized the significance of this new capital injection, stating it will allow the company to scale its impact and deliver “future-ready tools” to empower community organizations.

“Partnering with Vertu Capital at this pivotal moment brings the strategic expertise we need to scale our impact,” said Lachance.

Vertu Capital’s Vision for Canadian Tech

This deal marks the fifth investment from Vertu Capital’s inaugural fund, which closed in March 2023 with over $300 million under management. Founded by OMERS veteran Lisa Melchoir, Vertu targets Canadian software companies and plans to invest between $25 million and $75 million per deal.

The firm’s strategy? Find companies with growth potential, inject capital and expertise, and scale them significantly before exit.

What’s Next for Amilia?

Armed with capital and renewed investor confidence, Amilia is poised to redefine how community spaces operate—simplifying administration while deepening community engagement. The startup’s blend of social impact and digital agility makes it a standout in the Canadian tech landscape.

Stay connected with Maple News Wire for more insights on Canada’s fast-growing tech innovators.

Hoverlink’s 30-Minute Hovercraft Ride Set to Revolutionize Toronto-Niagara Travel

Chuck
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0
Hoverlink’s 30-Minute Hovercraft Ride Set to Revolutionize Toronto-Niagara Travel

Hoverlink Secures Key Toronto Dock, Nears Launch of Fast Hovercraft Service

An innovative Ontario company, Hoverlink, is making waves with plans to launch North America’s first large-scale hovercraft transit system between Toronto and Niagara. The company recently secured its docking site at Billy Bishop Airport in Toronto, clearing a major hurdle toward offering a transit option that promises to slash travel time across Lake Ontario to just 30 minutes.

This new route is poised to transform travel in the region by cutting journey times by up to 90% compared to driving or public transit. Hoverlink’s hovercrafts will carry up to 180 passengers per trip, operating year-round and regardless of weather conditions.

A Game-Changer for Commuters and Tourists Alike

Chris Morgan, Hoverlink’s founder and CEO, describes the service as “connectivity without congestion.” With over 279,000 single-passenger rush hour trips crossing the Burlington Bay James N. Allen Skyway Bridge daily-72% of which are Toronto-bound commuters-the hovercraft service could remove more than 8,000 vehicles from the busy Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) every day.

This reduction in traffic congestion not only benefits daily commuters but also supports environmental sustainability by significantly lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Each hovercraft trip is expected to consume about 200 litres of biodiesel, cutting CO₂ emissions by 99% compared to car travel.

Unlocking Economic and Tourism Potential Across the Golden Horseshoe

Hoverlink’s service is designed to serve up to three million passengers annually, opening new doors for economic growth and tourism in the Golden Horseshoe region. By providing a fast, reliable, and sustainable transit alternative, the company hopes to revitalize connections between Toronto and Niagara, two major tourist hubs.

The route will operate up to 48 trips daily, with travel speeds reaching 100 km/h over water, land, or ice. The Niagara docking site in Port Weller, St. Catharines, is already shovel-ready, and construction in Toronto is expected to follow soon.

Challenges and Outlook: Affordability and Infrastructure

While the technology and route feasibility are promising, experts caution that ticket pricing will be critical to the service’s success. University of Toronto transportation expert Baher Abdulhai notes that affordability will determine whether Hoverlink appeals broadly to commuters or remains a niche tourist option.

The company has yet to announce exact fares but promises competitive pricing comparable to current transit costs between Toronto and Niagara. Manufacturing the hovercrafts is expected to take 18 to 24 months, with service launch contingent on final approvals and infrastructure completion.

Hoverlink’s ambitious project could redefine regional transit by offering a speedy, eco-friendly alternative to congested highways. As Toronto and Niagara prepare for this futuristic connection, travelers eagerly await a new way to cross Lake Ontario in just half an hour.

D-Wave Quantum Leap: Record Revenues, Lingering Losses

James
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0
D-Wave Quantum Leap: Record Revenues, Lingering Losses

D-Wave Systems reports 509% revenue surge in Q1 2025 but remains unprofitable despite major breakthroughs and global deals.

D-Wave Systems, Canada’s pioneering quantum computing firm based in Burnaby, B.C., has posted a record-breaking 509% surge in Q1 2025 revenue, marking a historic milestone. However, despite the financial leap, the company continues to operate at a loss.

Record Revenue Fueled by Global Quantum Deal

D-Wave achieved $15 million USD ($20.9 million CAD) in Q1 revenues—an all-time high for the company. The growth was largely attributed to the sale of its Advantage quantum system to Germany’s Jülich Supercomputing Centre, a move hailed as a leap forward in AI and quantum optimization.

CEO Alan Baratz dubbed the quarter the most significant in the company’s history, citing tangible breakthroughs that delivered “quantum value” to both clients and the global scientific community.

From Deep Losses to Smaller Deficits

While D-Wave still recorded a net loss of $5.4 million USD ($7.5 million CAD), the gap has narrowed considerably from the $17.3 million USD ($24.1 million CAD) loss a year ago. Gross profit also jumped by 736%, reaching $13.9 million USD ($19.3 million CAD)—a sign that higher-margin products are bolstering bottom-line performance.

Global Clients, But Softening Bookings

Despite growing its client base to 133 over the past four quarters (up from 128), D-Wave saw the value of its bookings fall to $1.9 million USD ($2.6 million CAD) from $4.5 million USD ($6.3 million CAD) in the same period last year—raising questions about future sales momentum.

Quantum Supremacy and Real-World Utility

Baratz celebrated several milestones this quarter:

  • Deployment with Ford to optimize car production in Turkey using quantum applications.
  • A quantum computing achievement D-Wave claims crosses into quantum supremacy—solving a real materials simulation that classical computers couldn’t.

Though others like Google and researchers in China have previously claimed supremacy, D-Wave emphasized that quantum utility—practical use in real scenarios—is its primary focus.

Industry Skepticism Meets Bold Optimism

Not everyone is sold on the hype. Critics, including Photonic’s CEO and Quantacet’s managing partner, argue that while supremacy is notable, useful quantum applications are the real game-changer.

Adding to the headwinds, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang recently claimed useful quantum systems are at least 15 years away. Baratz rebutted strongly, saying D-Wave is “years ahead” and actively commercializing what others are still researching.

Share Price Pressures, But Capital Inflow Strong

Despite stock market volatility, D-Wave raised $175 million USD ($243.8 million CAD) in December 2024, fueling R&D and growth efforts. Still, stiff competition remains, particularly from Canadian startups like Xanadu, Photonic, and Nord Quantique, as well as tech giants like Microsoft, which is exploring new quantum materials.

The Road Ahead for Quantum in Canada

D-Wave’s Q1 story is a blend of hope and hurdles: technological milestones, improved financials, and undeniable momentum—yet a profitability goal still out of reach. The company’s next chapters may define not just its own legacy but Canada’s global standing in the quantum race.

Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for more updates on Canada’s quantum future.

B.C. Premier Eby Affirms Canadian-American Friendship Amid Trade Talks

Henry
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0
B.C. Premier Eby Affirms Canadian-American Friendship Amid Trade Talks

Eby Sends a Clear Message: Canadians Still Value Americans

British Columbia Premier David Eby took to Fox News this week with a message aimed directly at both the American public and the U.S. administration. In the face of ongoing trade tensions and political uncertainty, Eby was unequivocal when asked if Canadians still like Americans.

“We love Americans,” Eby said plainly. He emphasized the deep family ties and longstanding business relationships that bind the two countries. However, he acknowledged the current difficulties, likening the relationship to a “good friend in a bad relationship,” yet underscored that these challenges do not diminish Canadians’ positive feelings toward their southern neighbours.

Aligning with Prime Minister Carney’s White House Visit

Eby’s remarks echoed the tone set by Prime Minister Mark Carney during his recent meeting with President Donald Trump. Carney’s visit to the Oval Office marked a step toward resetting the Canada-U.S. relationship amid tariff disputes and trade uncertainties.

Eby noted that Carney briefed provincial premiers following the meeting, sharing a consensus that the discussions were constructive and that President Trump showed respect toward the Canadian prime minister. This renewed engagement offers hope for progress on critical trade issues.

Softwood Lumber and Film Industry Tariffs Take Center Stage

Among the pressing topics raised by Eby and other premiers were tariffs impacting British Columbia’s key industries, including the softwood lumber sector and the film and television industry. Eby expressed optimism that the softwood lumber dispute could become a catalyst for broader trade negotiations benefiting both countries.

He highlighted the potential for Americans to gain access to more affordable building materials, while Canadian producers could see economic growth. The premiers urged continued advocacy from Carney to protect these vital sectors.

A Relationship Tested but Not Broken

Despite the backdrop of a trade war and tariff impositions, the tone between the leaders remains civil. Trump praised Carney’s election victory and called him “a very talented person,” signaling a willingness to engage.

Eby’s candid reflections and Carney’s diplomatic approach suggest that while challenges persist, the foundation of friendship and mutual respect between Canada and the United States endures. Both leaders appear committed to ongoing dialogue, aiming to navigate the complexities of trade and sovereignty with a spirit of cooperation.

As Canada and the U.S. work through their differences, British Columbians and Canadians alike watch closely, hopeful that collaboration will prevail over conflict.

 

American Elected Pope: Manitobans React with Surprise

Nicole
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0
American Elected Pope: Manitobans React with Surprise

Manitobans share surprise and pride as Cardinal Robert Prevost from Chicago becomes Pope Leo XIV, the first American Pope, following Pope Francis’ legacy.

Manitobans React with Surprise, Pride as American Becomes Pope

The Roman Catholic world was stunned this week as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago became the first American ever elected to the papacy, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. Manitobans, in particular, are reflecting on this historic moment with a mix of surprise, curiosity, and pride.

A Swift Decision in the Sistine Chapel

Archbishop Murray Chatlain of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Winnipeg was among those caught off guard—not only by the choice of an American but also by the speed of the decision.

“Typically, selecting a new pope takes about three days,” Chatlain told CBC. “This conclave moved remarkably fast.”

Prevost was elected on the fourth ballot, just two days into the conclave, following the passing of Pope Francis on April 21. While unexpected, Chatlain said he respects the new pontiff’s background and achievements.

A Missionary’s Heart, A Global Perspective

Cardinal Prevost’s long missionary work in Peru, where he also holds citizenship, played a role in his selection. Having served as a bishop in Chiclayo and becoming a cardinal in 2023, Prevost built a reputation for his commitment to social justice and helping the poor. “It’s encouraging to have someone with his compassion for the marginalized,” Chatlain said. “He’s seen as someone who will carry forward Pope Francis’ spirit without major shifts.”

Métis Pride and Calls for Continued Healing

For David Chartrand, president of the Manitoba Métis Federation, the election sparked a sense of pride. “First North American ever to be Pope—it’s something to be proud of,” Chartrand said. Chartrand, who previously visited the Vatican as part of a Métis delegation during Pope Francis’ 2022 apology for the Church’s role in residential schools, emphasized that the healing process must continue.

“Pope Francis touched the hearts of survivors,” Chartrand noted. “Now the challenge is how Pope Leo continues that healing. It’s going to take time, but it’s essential for families and communities.”

Chartrand also plans to invite Pope Leo XIV to Canada, suggesting multiple stops to engage with Indigenous communities.

Indigenous Leaders Urge Focus on Reconciliation

Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak, National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations, issued a statement congratulating the new Pope while underscoring the importance of reconciliation.

“We invite His Holiness to prioritize reconciliation, especially with those affected by residential schools,” the statement read. It also called on the Vatican to address repatriation of sacred First Nations artifacts.

As the world watches this historic papal transition, Manitobans hope Pope Leo XIV will champion healing, reconciliation, and a global sense of justice—building on the foundation laid by Pope Francis.

Ontario Man Testifies in Deadly Police Shooting Case

Chuck
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0
Ontario Man Testifies in Deadly Police Shooting Case

Alain Bellefeuille recounts fatal police shooting in court, claiming panic and misidentification during a late-night encounter at his Ontario home.

Fear and Tragedy: Ontario Man Speaks Out After Deadly Police Encounter

In a gripping courtroom testimony, Alain Bellefeuille, accused of murdering Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Sgt. Eric Mueller, described the night that turned deadly inside his Bourget, Ontario home. The incident on May 11, 2023, which left one officer dead and two others wounded, has shaken both the local community and law enforcement circles.

I Thought It Was a Home Invasion

Bellefeuille told the Superior Court in L’Orignal that when two OPP officers entered his home at 2:30 a.m., he did not hear them identify themselves as police. Speaking in French, Bellefeuille said his heart was pounding, and when he saw figures holding what appeared to be handguns, he believed he was under attack.

Panicked, Bellefeuille grabbed his high-caliber, semi-automatic rifle—kept illegally loaded by his bedside—and fired through the bedroom wall. He admitted to using a modified magazine that exceeded legal capacity, a detail now central to the prosecution’s case.

Emotional Testimony in a Tense Courtroom

Bellefeuille faces charges of first-degree murder and attempted murder. While he acknowledges killing Sgt. Mueller and injuring two other officers, the trial’s focus is on his state of mind and intent.

In court, Bellefeuille appeared visibly emotional, sometimes crying as he recounted the moments he realized he had shot a police officer. “I was in a nightmare,” he said. “I thought I was in a home invasion and then I realized I shot a police officer.”

Alcohol, Anxiety, and a Loaded Rifle

The day before the shooting, Bellefeuille drank heavily, consuming about ten whiskey-based drinks. He had long kept the rifle loaded at home, a decision shaped by past robberies and home invasions in his life.

“I knew it wasn’t by the book, but I felt safer,” he told the court. He also cited concerns over keeping cash in the house and explained why he modified the gun’s magazine: to avoid reloading in an emergency.

The Night of the Shooting: What Went Wrong?

According to Bellefeuille, the first signs of trouble came from his barking dog and loud banging on his back door. He never heard anyone announce themselves as police. Without checking, he opened fire through the walls, later moving through the house and firing again when he saw flashlights.

When he finally saw Mueller on the ground wearing a police vest, Bellefeuille said he went into shock. “I don’t have control over my emotions,” he testified. Audio played in court captured Bellefeuille’s panicked words as he hovered over the fallen officer.

Reflections on a Tragedy

Bellefeuille insists he never intended to harm anyone, much less a police officer. His remorse was clear in court as he described telling the dying officer, “Hang in there, buddy” and urging paramedics to hurry.

As cross-examination continues, the trial raises critical questions about gun laws, mental state, and the thin line between fear and fatal action. Bellefeuille’s defense hinges on whether the jury believes his claim that he genuinely mistook police officers for home invaders.

Metro Vancouver’s Cowdog Coffee Expands with No-Tip Philosophy

Chuck
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0
Metro Vancouver’s Cowdog Coffee Expands with No-Tip Philosophy

Cowdog Coffee’s No-Tip Model Wins Fans, Expands to Kitsilano

In a city where tipping culture often feels overwhelming, Cowdog Coffee is flipping the script. This popular Vancouver café, famous for its strict no-tipping policy and commitment to paying employees a living wage, is opening a second, larger location in Kitsilano on May 10. Fans can expect the same great coffee and matcha drinks-without the pressure to tip.

From Pop-Up to Two Locations in Under a Year

Starting as a humble pop-up in Mount Pleasant, Cowdog quickly became a local favourite, drawing long lines at its Oak Street spot. Owners Joe Lee and Ryan Leenstra credit their success to quality drinks, fair wages, and a welcoming atmosphere. Now, after just nine months, they’re ready to bring their unique café experience to a new space at 1927 W. 4th Ave, complete with a customer washroom-something the original location lacks due to space constraints.

Quality Drinks, Fair Prices, and No Tipping Stress

Cowdog serves classic coffee shop staples alongside specialty matcha drinks like their signature Strawberry Matcha, made with house-roasted strawberry puree and their own Dew matcha powder. Despite paying higher wages, prices remain fair, and customers can swap dairy for oat milk at no extra cost. The no-tip policy means you can enjoy your beverage without awkwardness or added expense.

A Growing Movement Against Tipping Culture

Cowdog’s approach resonates with many Metro Vancouver residents tired of rising tipping expectations. By offering living wages, the café removes the transactional nature of tipping, focusing instead on delivering great service as a standard. This model is gaining traction, with other local eateries exploring similar policies.

What’s Next for Cowdog?

With their second location opening soon, Lee and Leenstra are already eyeing further expansion beyond Vancouver, potentially to Toronto and New York. For now, coffee lovers can celebrate the arrival of a new spot that keeps both wallets and workers happy.

Ready to skip the tip and savor exceptional matcha? Head to Cowdog’s Kitsilano location starting May 10 and experience a fresh take on café culture. Follow @cowdog.coffee on Instagram and TikTok for updates and specials.

 

Vancouver’s Skyline Set to Soar with Record-Breaking Skyscraper

Nicole
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0
Vancouver’s Skyline Set to Soar with Record-Breaking Skyscraper

Vancouver’s Skyline Poised for a Stunning Transformation

Vancouver’s architectural landscape is about to welcome a bold new chapter. The Holborn Group, a renowned local developer, has unveiled plans for a massive mixed-use development featuring three towering skyscrapers – including what would become British Columbia’s tallest building. Spanning nearly two downtown blocks, this project promises to redefine the city’s skyline and offer breathtaking views.

A Towering Vision: Over 300 Metres High

The centerpiece of the development is a soaring tower on West Georgia Street, set to reach over 300 metres (1,033 feet) – nearly 50% taller than Metro Vancouver’s current tallest building. This skyscraper will feature a public observation deck and a “forest in the sky” garden, inviting residents and visitors to experience panoramic views of the city, mountains, and ocean.

Homes, Hotel, and Cultural Spaces Unite Community

The project will deliver 1,939 new homes, including market, rental, and non-market housing, alongside a 920-room hotel. Beyond residential and hospitality, the development will embrace social responsibility with a childcare facility, a public plaza showcasing Indigenous art, and an art gallery celebrating the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations. The design draws inspiration from ancient glass sea sponge reefs off the B.C. coast, symbolizing resilience and natural beauty.

Preserving Heritage and Embracing Innovation

While a heritage building on Dunsmuir Street was recently demolished for safety reasons, the development will preserve the historic Randall Building’s façade, integrating it into the new design as a canvas for contemporary Indigenous artwork – a gesture toward reconciliation and cultural dialogue.

A Decade-Long Journey Toward a World-Class City

The project, designed by Henriquez Partners Architects, has evolved over nearly two decades of planning and dialogue with city officials. Holborn’s president, Joo Kim Tiah, emphasizes the timing is right as Vancouver grows with ambitions to become a world-class city. If approved, construction could span over ten years, creating thousands of jobs and transforming downtown Vancouver into a vibrant, inclusive urban hub.

Vancouver’s future skyline is set to reach new heights with this visionary project blending architecture, culture, and community. Ready to watch the city rise? Stay tuned as this landmark development moves closer to reality.

 

14 Must-Do Events in Metro Vancouver This Weekend (May 9-11)

Avery
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14 Must-Do Events in Metro Vancouver This Weekend (May 9-11)

Metro Vancouver Bursts with Energy This Weekend

May in Metro Vancouver is heating up with a packed lineup of events-from bustling night markets and lively concerts to cultural festivals and unique outdoor adventures. Whether you’re craving delicious eats, soulful music, or family-friendly fun, this weekend has something for everyone.

Dive Into Richmond Night Market’s 25th Anniversary

Celebrate a quarter-century of flavour and fun at the Richmond Night Market, open Fridays through Sundays until October 13. Explore over 100 food stalls, vibrant live performances, and this year’s thrilling new attraction: the world’s first night market zipline soaring 600 feet above the crowd. Don’t miss the season-long happy hour specials with food under $10 and drinks for $7.

Date – April 25 – October 13, 2025
Place – 8351 River Road, Richmond

Savor Local Flavours at Junction Public Market

Set against the stunning waterfront at Granville Square, the Junction Public Market offers local artisans, delicious eats, and live entertainment. Sip craft beverages while soaking in the views and vibrant atmosphere.

Date – May 1 – September 28, 2025
Place – Granville Square, Vancouver

Experience Soundscapes by Alessandro Martire

Immerse yourself in an unforgettable one-night-only performance blending piano, orchestral strings, and captivating visuals inspired by Italy’s Amalfi Coast and Lake Como.

Date – May 10, 2025
Place – Vancouver Playhouse

Celebrate Culture at Vancouver Hong Kong Fair

Discover Hong Kong’s rich culture through over 60 booths, live performances, and family activities at the Shipyards in North Vancouver. Taste authentic cuisine and enjoy vibrant crafts and entertainment.

Date – May 11, 2025
Place – The Shipyards, North Vancouver

Climb for Nature at BC Place

Take on Vancouver’s ultimate stair challenge while supporting conservation. Climb BC Place’s inner staircases for a good cause and enjoy exclusive city views from usually off-limits spots.

Date – May 10, 2025
Place – BC Place, Vancouver

Vintage Charm at Vancouver Postcard Club Show & Sale

Step back in time with a treasure trove of vintage postcards showcasing Vancouver and beyond. Perfect for history buffs and collectors alike.

Date – May 10, 2025
Place – Hastings Community Centre, Vancouver

Port Coquitlam’s 101st May Day Parade & Festivities

Join one of BC’s longest-running community celebrations featuring parades, live music, markets, and family fun with a vibrant street party downtown.

Date – May 10, 2025
Place – Downtown Port Coquitlam

Catch Live Music at the Commodore Ballroom

Lights: Dance to synth-pop beats from the Juno-winning artist.

Date – May 9, 2025
Place – Commodore Ballroom

James Bay: Experience soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics from the British singer-songwriter.

Date – May 10, 2025
Place – Commodore Ballroom

Dolly Parton’s ‘9 to 5 The Musical’ Shines in New Westminster

Laugh and sing along to this empowering workplace comedy filled with Dolly Parton’s iconic tunes. Running through May 11.

Date – April 25 – May 11, 2025
Place – Massey Theatre, New Westminster

Explore ‘Tranquility of Communion’ at The Polygon Gallery

Discover the powerful photography of Rotimi Fani-Kayode, exploring themes of identity and love in this Canadian premiere exhibition.

Date – February 28 – May 25, 2025
Place – The Polygon Gallery, North Vancouver
Admission- By donation

Step Into the Provocative World of Banksy

Experience over 200 artworks, including murals and immersive installations, in the internationally acclaimed “Art of Banksy: Without Limits” exhibition.

Date – February 20 – May 25, 2025
Place – Alexander Street, Gastown, Vancouver

Cheer on Vancouver Whitecaps FC at BC Place

Catch thrilling MLS action as the Whitecaps take on top teams, including a home game against Los Angeles FC.

Date – May 11, 2025, 4:00 PM
Place – BC Place, Vancouver

From ziplining over night markets to soulful concerts and cultural celebrations, Metro Vancouver’s weekend lineup is bursting with excitement. Gather your friends, plan your itinerary, and dive into the city’s vibrant spring scene!

Trump’s UK Trade Deal Signals Tough Talks Ahead for Canada

Henry
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0
Trump’s UK Trade Deal Signals Tough Talks Ahead for Canada

Trump’s UK Deal Offers Glimpse into Future Canada Trade Talks

U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent preliminary trade agreement with the United Kingdom sends a clear message to Canada and other trading partners: tariffs may be reduced but won’t be fully dropped. While details remain fluid, the deal reflects Trump’s ongoing strategy to reshape global trade on American terms amid his broader tariff campaign.

Partial Tariff Relief, But Duties Stay in Place

Though the U.K. will see steel and aluminum tariffs lifted and automobile duties reduced to 10% for a limited quota, a baseline 10% tariff on most British imports remains. Trump emphasized the deal will boost U.S. exports of beef and ethanol but maintained that tariffs will persist as a negotiating tool. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed the universal 10% tariff baseline will continue.

What This Means for Canada’s Trade Negotiations

Experts say the U.K. deal signals Trump’s willingness to negotiate but also his reluctance to fully abandon tariffs-an approach likely to shape talks with Canada. Unlike the U.K., Canada faces broader tariffs, including on steel, aluminum, and autos, with partial carveouts for American-made components under CUSMA.

Fen Osler Hampson, a Carleton University expert, calls this a move toward “managed trade,” where tariffs might remain but at moderated levels. Canada’s exclusion from Trump’s 90-day tariff pause underscores the tougher path ahead.

Canada Faces Pressure Amid Shifting Trade Landscape

Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney recently met with Trump in a surprisingly cordial encounter, a sign of potential thaw despite ongoing tensions. Still, U.S. industry voices warn that the U.K. deal could disadvantage North American automakers by offering British vehicles preferential access.

Senior policy analyst Henry Olsen cautions that Trump’s focus on reducing trade deficits-especially with Canada-will complicate negotiations, as energy exports heavily influence the balance.

Resetting Global Trade Rules: A Cautious Outlook

While Trump’s administration claims to seek fairer trade, the U.K. deal shows tariffs remain a key leverage point. The agreement’s mixed signals-lower tariffs but not full elimination-suggest Canada must prepare for a complex negotiation landscape where some duties may persist even if CUSMA remains intact.

Trump’s UK trade deal offers Canada a preview of the challenges ahead: negotiation with tariffs as a backdrop, requiring strategic diplomacy and readiness for managed trade realities. 

Surrey Sues Former Employee Over $2.5M Irregular Transactions

Henry
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0
Surrey Sues Former Employee Over $2.5M Irregular Transactions

Surrey Launches Legal Action Over $2.5 Million Financial Irregularities

The City of Surrey has initiated a civil lawsuit against a former employee to recover approximately $2.5 million linked to irregular transactions uncovered in dormant development-deposit accounts. The issues date back to 2017, with the city first detecting anomalies in early 2024 during an internal audit.

Investigation Uncovers Fraud, Criminal Probe Underway

Following the discovery, Surrey engaged external forensic accountants and reported the matter to the RCMP, who are now conducting a criminal investigation. City Manager Rob Costanzo emphasized that no current employees are implicated, and privacy laws prevent further comment on personnel matters, including those involving relatives of the former staff member.

Complex Scheme Involving Dormant Accounts and Forged Documents

Court documents reveal the former finance clerk allegedly exploited access to city databases, manipulating payee details and issuing fraudulent cheques to accounts linked to herself, her family, and a side business. The scheme involved 183 cheques totaling over $2.5 million, spanning several years.

City Strengthens Controls to Safeguard Public Funds

In response to the fraud, Surrey has enhanced its financial controls and processes to prevent similar incidents. The city assures residents that decisive steps are being taken to recover the full amount and protect taxpayer dollars, though details remain limited due to ongoing legal proceedings.

Surrey’s case highlights the challenges municipalities face in protecting public funds and the importance of robust oversight.

Alleged Fake Nurse Arrested in U.S., Returned to Canada

Alex
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0
Alleged Fake Nurse Arrested in U.S., Returned to Canada

A woman accused of impersonating a nurse on Vancouver Island has been arrested in the U.S. and returned to Canada to face fraud and identity charges.

An alleged fake nurse who posed as a registered healthcare professional across Vancouver Island has been arrested in the United States and returned to Canada to face charges.

Charrybelle Talaue, who used multiple aliases, had been wanted for months after she fled the country while awaiting trial on fraud, forgery, and personation charges.

Criminal Activity Spanned Across Victoria Region

According to Central Saanich police, the offences are believed to have begun in December 2023 and occurred across the Capital Regional District, including the Victoria area. Police say Talaue falsely presented herself as a qualified nurse and practiced in unauthorized healthcare settings.

Her alleged misconduct triggered concern throughout the healthcare community and led to additional charges in Alberta.

List of Aliases and Interstate Manhunt

Talaue reportedly operated under a long list of identities, including:

  • Charrybelle Perez Talaue
  • Belle Marie
  • Yves Anglehart
  • Charie Talaue
  • Belle Yves Talaue Anglehart
  • And other variations combining her names

Her multiple aliases complicated the investigation and delayed her capture. Once it was confirmed she had fled across the border, warrants were issued, prompting international cooperation.

Arrested in Idaho With U.S. Federal Help

The search came to a close when Talaue was located in Idaho, where she was apprehended with the assistance of the U.S. Secret Service and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). She has now been extradited back to Canada.

Central Saanich police announced her arrest publicly on Tuesday.

B.C. Health Officials Urge Credential Verification

While B.C. Health Minister Adrian Dix declined to speak directly on the case last year, he condemned the broader issue of medical credential fraud, calling it “a disservice to the trained professionals who supported the province through the pandemic.”

The B.C. College of Nurses and Midwives reminds the public that anyone can verify a nurse’s credentials through their official licensing database.

As legal proceedings resume, the case underscores the critical importance of verifying healthcare credentials.

Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for the latest on public safety and legal accountability in British Columbia.

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Maple News Wire

Maple News Wire is an independent Canada-based digital news platform committed to delivering accurate, timely, and impartial reporting across a wide spectrum of topics.

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