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

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

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

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

New Ownership Sets New Direction

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

Company Vision for Revitalization

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

A Site with Industrial Potential

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

Engagement with Local and Indigenous Partners

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

OSB Plant Proposal Still Alive

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

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

Regulatory and Resource Approvals in Place

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

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Vancouver Rise Celebrate NSL Title with Fans at YVR

James
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Vancouver Rise Celebrate NSL Title with Fans at YVR

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

Vancouver Rise Greeted by Cheering Fans After Historic NSL Win

A Championship Homecoming Filled With Emotion

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

Fans Gather Early to Celebrate a Breakthrough Moment

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

Supporter Culture Anchored in Grit and Resilience

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

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

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

Coaching Staff Credits Fans for Fueling the Team’s Spirit

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

Players Reflect on a Historic Moment for Canadian Soccer

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

Federal Funding Signals Stronger Future for the NSL

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

A Victory That Resonates Beyond the Championship Trophy

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

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MGK Electrifies Grey Cup Crowd in Winnipeg

James
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MGK Electrifies Grey Cup Crowd in Winnipeg

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

MGK Electrifies Grey Cup Crowd in Winnipeg

Halftime Performance Draws Massive Fan Response

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

Stadium Atmosphere Heightens During Featured Acts

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

Prime Minister Faces Mixed Reception from Fans

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

Fans Celebrate Before and After the Big Game

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

Historic Victory Marks Major Milestone for Saskatchewan

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

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Canada Announces First Team for 2026 Paralympic Games

James
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Canada Announces First Team for 2026 Paralympic Games

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

Canada Reveals First Athletes for Milan-Cortina 2026 Paralympics

A Milestone Announcement Sets Canada’s Paralympic Journey in Motion

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

Veteran Lineup Brings Depth, Experience, and Proven Success

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

A Sport Where Canada Has Never Missed the Podium

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

Leaders Speak on Pride, Legacy, and the Road Ahead

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

A Full-Circle Moment for Veteran Paralympian Ina Forrest

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

Preparation Begins as Team Targets Another Podium Finish

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

Looking Toward a Promising 2026 Campaign

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

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

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

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

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

Lower Gas Prices Drive October Slowdown

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

Headline and Core Numbers Show Mixed Signals

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

Bank of Canada Monitoring Inflation Path

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

Grocery Prices Cool but Remain Elevated

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

Rising Household Costs Offset Some Relief

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

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Poland Reacts After Deadly Missile Hits Kyiv

James
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Poland Reacts After Deadly Missile Hits Kyiv

Poland reports an explosive device detonated on a railway used for Ukraine-bound aid shipments as officials investigate what they call sabotage.

Blast Damages Rail Link Vital to Ukraine Aid

Explosion Disrupts Key Transport Line

Poland confirmed Monday that an explosive device detonated on a section of railway between Warsaw and Lublin, a route crucial for transporting military aid and supplies to Ukraine. The incident, discovered early Sunday, caused significant damage to the track near the village of Mika, about 100 kilometres southeast of the capital.

Officials Point to Deliberate Sabotage

Prime Minister Donald Tusk described the explosion as an “unprecedented act of sabotage,” vowing that authorities will identify those responsible. Investigators later found damage to overhead cables on the same line, which officials also believe was intentionally inflicted. The disruption occurred on one of Europe’s most strategically important rail corridors amid ongoing Russia-Ukraine tensions.

Security Concerns Heighten Amid Investigation

Poland’s interior and security officials said there is no doubt the device was intentionally detonated. Although the exact timing of the blast remains unclear, the train involved had two passengers and several staff onboard, none of whom were injured. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said the alliance is in close contact with Poland as the investigation develops.

Broader Pattern of Suspected Sabotage in Europe

Western officials have previously accused Russia and its proxies of orchestrating sabotage attempts across Europe since the invasion of Ukraine began three years ago. These actions, they say, aim to weaken support for Kyiv and create social instability. Poland has already experienced cross-border drone incidents, including the downing of Russian drones that entered its airspace in September.

Extensive Inspection Underway on Affected Line

Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz announced that the military will inspect roughly 120 kilometres of the Warsaw-Lublin-Hrubieszów line, which also connects to a major road link to Ukraine. The inspection aims to ensure there are no additional threats along the rail corridor used to move humanitarian aid and military equipment.

Calls for Calm Amid Rising Regional Tensions

Responding to the incident, Finland’s President Alexander Stubb urged European nations to remain measured and avoid escalation. Speaking alongside Rutte, he warned that Russia is conducting a hybrid campaign across Europe alongside its military offensive in Ukraine. Stubb noted that “the line between war and peace has been blurred,” echoing rising concerns across NATO member states.

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Two Charged After Hundreds of GTA Mausoleum Thefts

Chuck
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Two Charged After Hundreds of GTA Mausoleum Thefts

Halton police charge two suspects after more than 300 thefts at GTA mausoleums. Hundreds of families may be affected as investigators recover stolen valuables.

Shocking Discovery of Widespread Mausoleum Thefts

Halton police say a months-long investigation has led to the arrest of two people accused of carrying out more than 300 thefts at mausoleums and cemeteries across the Greater Toronto Area. The case surfaced after families reported missing items from cremation niches, prompting officers to trace the incidents to locations in Oakville, Burlington, Toronto, and the Niagara Region.

Extent of the Thefts Uncovered Across Multiple Regions

Investigators report that the suspects entered mausoleums during daytime hours and used tools to remove jewellery, keepsakes, decorative urns and other valuables stored alongside cremated remains. Police say a mausoleum in Oakville and two more in Burlington were among the hardest hit, raising concerns that many victims may still be unaware of the thefts.

Arrests Made Following Coordinated Police Operation

Officers arrested a 45-year-old man and a 31-year-old woman, both with no fixed address, at a Niagara Falls motel on Nov. 7. A search of the property and a nearby vehicle led to the recovery of thousands of dollars in stolen jewelry. Police believe many items have already been sold or melted down, complicating efforts to return them to families.

Charges Laid as Investigation Deepens

Halton police say the man is facing 28 charges, including indignity to a dead body and 19 counts of theft under $5,000. The woman is facing 25 charges, including theft and possession of property obtained by crime. Both remain in custody awaiting a bail hearing in Milton, and investigators expect additional charges as more stolen items are analyzed.

Impact on Families and Community Sentiment

Officials say some stolen necklaces contained human remains, which the suspects allegedly discarded after removing the valuables. Deputy Chief Roger Wilkie called the crimes “deeply disturbing,” noting the emotional toll on families whose memorial spaces were violated. Police say these actions have shaken community trust and disrupted places meant for dignity and remembrance.

Police Appeal for Additional Victims to Come Forward

As many thefts remain unreported, investigators are urging families to inspect their niches and contact police if items are missing. They are asked to provide the name of the deceased, descriptions or photos of missing valuables, and the location and estimated timing of the theft. Police also encourage tipsters to reach out anonymously through Crime Stoppers.

Funeral Provider Urges Families to Check Niches

Arbor Memorial Inc., which operates two of the affected cemeteries, confirmed multiple thefts occurred but said it could not comment further due to the active investigation. The company is advising families to schedule guided inspections and remove any valuables at risk. Representatives emphasized that the stolen items hold deep sentimental value and expressed compassion for those affected.

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Alberta Doctors Push for Easier Access to Child Vaccines

Sarah
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Alberta Doctors Push for Easier Access to Child Vaccines

Alberta doctors warn of declining childhood immunization rates and call for hospital access to routine vaccines, but the province cites capacity limits.

Alberta Doctors Push for Easier Access to Child Vaccines

Doctors Raise Alarm Over Declining Coverage

Pediatric specialists in Alberta are sounding the alarm over falling childhood immunization rates and urging the province to allow routine vaccines to be administered in children’s hospitals. Their concerns intensified after Canada lost its measles elimination status, a development that physicians say highlights gaps in vaccine delivery. Dr. Sam Wong, president of the pediatrics section at the Alberta Medical Association, said hospital-based access could capture unvaccinated children already seeking care.

Proposal for Hospital Access Meets Resistance

Despite repeated calls from pediatricians to offer routine vaccines in hospital settings, the Alberta government has rejected the proposal. Officials argue that children’s hospitals are under significant strain and cannot accommodate additional vaccination services. The Ministry of Primary and Preventative Health Services maintains that community clinics remain the safest and most efficient settings for routine immunization.

Front-Line Physicians Cite Missed Opportunities

Doctors working in emergency rooms and pediatric wards report frequent encounters with unvaccinated children whose parents are willing to immunize them. However, many hospitals only offer routine vaccines once a week when a public health nurse visits, leading to missed vaccination windows for short-stay patients. Physicians argue that around-the-clock or even expanded access could prevent future outbreaks and streamline care for vulnerable children.

Declining Rates Fuel Outbreak Fears

Provincial data shows immunization coverage for measles, whooping cough, polio, and other preventable diseases remains well below Alberta’s 95 per cent target. Only 68 per cent of children turning two in 2024 had received two doses of the measles vaccine, with even lower rates in rural zones. Pediatricians warn that low coverage increases the risk of community spread, hospitalizations, and potential deaths, particularly during outbreaks of measles or pertussis.

Government Cites Capacity and Safety Constraints

The province insists that adding routine immunization services to hospitals could increase staff workloads and create risks for medically fragile children. Officials emphasize that some vaccines require specialized storage and administration conditions not consistently available in hospital settings. They note that public health teams do intervene when immunizations are urgently needed due to exposure or extended hospital stays.

Physicians Point to Treatment Delays and Barriers

Doctors say gaps in hospital-based vaccine access can delay essential treatments. In some cases, children requiring immunization before starting immune-suppressing medications have waited days for vaccines, prolonging hospital stays and straining resources. Physicians argue that these avoidable delays highlight the need for more flexible vaccine delivery options inside hospitals.

Ongoing Efforts and Future Concerns

While the Ministry reports no active measles cases and hopes to soon declare the outbreak over, it acknowledges the ongoing risk of new introductions. Pediatricians maintain that without expanded access and administrative changes, Alberta may continue to face preventable outbreaks. They call for innovative solutions to strengthen childhood immunization and ensure timely protection for all children in the province.

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Riders Celebrate 5th Grey Cup With Family on the Field

Nicole
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Riders Celebrate 5th Grey Cup With Family on the Field

The Saskatchewan Roughriders celebrated their fifth Grey Cup win surrounded by family at Princess Auto Stadium, marking an emotional end to a historic season.

Riders Celebrate 5th Grey Cup With Family on the Field

A Celebration Marked by Family

The Saskatchewan Roughriders turned their Grey Cup victory into a family affair on Sunday night, gathering with loved ones on the confetti-covered field at Princess Auto Stadium in Winnipeg. The team, which often credited its “family-like” environment for its success this season, embraced the moment by sharing it with parents, partners, children, and supporters who rushed to the turf immediately after the win.

Emotional Moments from Players and Staff

General manager Jeremy O’Day posed for a photo with his children beside the Grey Cup, calling the championship “long overdue,” while linebacker Jameer Thurman celebrated with his mother Ayesha, who travelled from Chicago to witness the win. Defensive back C.J. Reavis embraced his mother and sister, describing the moment as the fulfilment of a lifelong dream. Head coach Corey Mace shared an emotional moment with his wife Petra, while hometown favourite Mitch Picton was surrounded by a large cheering section wearing his No. 81 jersey.

Personal Stories Behind the Victory

For many players, the night carried deep personal significance. Centre Logan Ferland searched the crowd for his mother, reflecting on the sacrifices his family made to support his career. Kicker Brett Lauther honoured his late grandmother, who helped raise him, saying he felt her presence as he held his two-month-old daughter during the celebrations. Offensive coordinator Marc Mueller, grandson of Roughriders legend Ron Lancaster, said creating his own championship memory was “really cool” after growing up around the team’s storied history.

A Locker Room Filled With Pride

Inside the Roughriders’ dressing room, cigar smoke mixed with champagne and beer sprays as players and family members embraced in celebration. Quarterback Trevor Harris captured photos of his children with the Grey Cup before encouraging his father to take a sip from the historic trophy. Harris pointed to a wristband engraved with “S.R. our time,” a motto he created in March that he said the team embodied all season.

Fans Prepare for Public Celebrations

Supporters will have two chances to celebrate with the champions this week. The Grey Cup will be showcased at Mosaic Stadium on Monday at 1:30 p.m. CST, followed by a championship parade in Regina on Tuesday at 2 p.m. CST. The parade will begin along the Green Mile on Albert Street and conclude at the Saskatchewan Legislative Building, giving fans one final chance to share in the Roughriders’ historic victory.

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Heavy Snow Squalls Disrupt Travel Across London Region

James
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Heavy Snow Squalls Disrupt Travel Across London Region

Snow squalls dumped up to 20 cm overnight in the London region, with more on the way as commuters face low visibility and difficult travel conditions.

Heavy Snow Squalls Disrupt Travel Across London Region

Winter Blast Hits Overnight

A strong burst of winter weather swept through the London region overnight as intense snow squalls off Lake Huron covered parts of the city with approximately 20 centimetres of snow. The conditions, which developed late Sunday, set the stage for a challenging start to the week as residents woke to deep snow and slow-moving traffic.

More Snow Expected Through Afternoon

Environment Canada reported that an additional 15 centimetres could fall through Monday morning and into the early afternoon. The agency issued a snow squall warning for the region, noting that the heaviest band is expected to shift east of London by late day. Forecasters cautioned that snowfall rates would remain unpredictable during the passage of squalls.

Visibility Drops and Roads Deteriorate

Travel conditions deteriorated rapidly as bursts of heavy snow reduced visibility to near zero in several areas. “Visibility will likely be suddenly reduced to near zero at times,” Environment Canada warned, urging drivers to allow extra time and prepare for abrupt changes in road conditions. Commuters reported slow travel along major routes as plows worked to keep up.

School Transportation Impacted

Although school buses were not cancelled, significant delays were reported across London and surrounding communities. Officials encouraged parents to monitor updates through the My Big Yellow Bus website, as fluctuating conditions continued to affect morning routes and schedules.

Weather Outlook for the Week

While squalls are set to ease later today, there remains a 40 per cent chance of flurries on Tuesday. Temperatures are expected to gradually rise as the week progresses, offering a short break from the early onset of winter weather that has blanketed the region.

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Crucial Budget Vote to Decide Fate of Liberal Government

James
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Crucial Budget Vote to Decide Fate of Liberal Government

Canada’s Liberal government faces a decisive budget confidence vote Monday that could trigger an election if it fails to secure cross-party support.

Government Faces Critical Budget Showdown

Tension Builds Ahead of Final Vote

MPs are set to decide Monday evening whether the federal budget will move forward — and whether the Liberal government will remain in power. The vote, tied directly to the government’s confidence, comes after weeks of debate surrounding major spending proposals and public service reductions. A defeat would topple the government and send Canadians toward another national election.

What the Budget Proposes

The budget introduced earlier this month outlines billions in new spending aimed at supporting an economy strained by U.S. tariffs and slowing growth. It also includes significant reductions to the federal public service, which the government argues are necessary to generate long-term savings. The motion asks Parliament to endorse the government’s “budgetary policy,” a procedural step with historic political weight.

Why the Vote Matters Now

Because the motion is considered a confidence matter, its failure would immediately end the Liberal mandate. Despite gaining a seat from former Conservative MP Chris d’Entremont’s recent defection, the Liberals remain short of a majority. As a result, the government requires at least one opposition party to back the budget or abstain if it hopes to survive.

How Parties Are Lining Up

Opposition parties have largely signalled rejection. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre reiterated last week that his caucus intends to “unanimously oppose” the motion. Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet has maintained his party cannot support the budget, while Green Leader Elizabeth May has expressed deep uncertainty, saying her support hinges on further climate commitments. May acknowledged being conflicted, balancing environmental demands with the public’s desire to avoid another election.

Where the Balance of Power Lies

The New Democratic Party now holds the deciding influence. Interim NDP Leader Don Davies has raised concerns about affordability measures and fiscal transparency but has not declared how the party’s MPs will vote. Some provisions in the budget directly affect NDP-held ridings, including Davies’s own, leaving open the possibility of either support or strategic abstentions. As of Monday morning, the NDP had not revealed its position.

What Comes Next for Canadians

Should the budget pass, the government will proceed with its fiscal plan and avoid a snap election. If it fails, Canadians could be heading to the polls far earlier than expected. With uncertainties lingering and party positions largely firm, Monday’s vote is shaping up to be one of the most consequential political moments of the session.

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CFIA Recalls Infant Formula Over Botulism Concerns

Nicole
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CFIA Recalls Infant Formula Over Botulism Concerns

Canada issues recall of ByHeart infant formula over potential botulism contamination. CFIA urges parents to stop using affected products immediately.

Infant Formula Recalled Over Botulism Risk, CFIA Warns

Federal Warning to Parents

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is urging parents across Canada to stop using specific ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula products after authorities determined they may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, the bacteria that causes botulism. The agency issued the national warning as part of an ongoing food safety investigation.

Products Involved in the Recall

The recall covers ByHeart’s 680-gram and 238-gram infant formula packages sold online. According to CFIA, all unexpired “Use By” codes are affected. Officials stressed that the products should not be consumed, served, used, sold, or distributed under any circumstances due to the potential contamination risk.

Why the Recall Was Issued

Health officials say Clostridium botulinum can cause severe and life-threatening illness, even when contaminated food shows no signs of spoilage. The decision to initiate the recall followed concerns that affected batches may contain bacterial spores capable of producing botulinum toxin, one of the most dangerous known toxins.

Potential Health Impact

Botulism symptoms in adults may include facial paralysis, fixed pupils, drooping eyelids, blurred or double vision, difficulty swallowing, impaired speech, and changes in voice. Children and infants may exhibit slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, muscle weakness, and paralysis. The illness does not cause fever, which can delay detection, and can be fatal if untreated.

What Consumers Should Do Now

The CFIA is advising consumers to check their homes for the affected formula and dispose of it safely. Anyone who believes they or a child may have become ill after consuming the product should seek immediate medical attention. Early treatment is considered critical for preventing serious complications.

Ongoing Investigation

CFIA officials say the food safety investigation is continuing, and further updates may follow. Additional recall details and safety information are available on the CFIA website, where consumers can track the latest notices and guidance.

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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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