Ford and DeSantis Trade Barbs Over Travel and Tourism

Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis have exchanged sharp comments over travel trends between Canada and the United States. The clash erupted after Ford said he would skip his usual winter trip to Florida amid ongoing trade tensions between Canada and the U.S. President’s policies.

Ford said his decision was personal. He told people not to let U.S. politics — especially tariff policies — dictate their lives or travel plans. He also encouraged Canadians to consider staying home and supporting local tourism this winter instead of travelling to Florida.

DeSantis Fires Back on Tourism Records

DeSantis responded quickly to Ford’s remarks by pointing to Florida’s record tourism numbers. He highlighted that the state continues to attract millions of visitors every year, including many from around the world.

The governor also pointed out Florida’s success in sports and travel, saying the state still draws large crowds and has an active tourism economy. His comments suggested that Florida’s travel industry remains strong despite talk of Canadian boycotts.

DeSantis used social media to make his point, noting that tourism figures did not show the impact Ford had suggested. He noted that various measures of visitor traffic continue to break records.

What Ford’s Comments Mean for Tourism

Ford clarified that he wasn’t telling others not to travel to Florida. He said if families have always gone there, they should feel free to continue. However, he said many Canadians might choose to explore local destinations instead, boosting travel within Canada.

The comments come amid broader political tensions involving tariffs and trade policy. Some data show that travel from Canada to the U.S. has fallen recently, even while total travel to the U.S. has grown.

Broader Context and Public Reaction

The exchange highlights how Canadian political leaders are trying to protect local industries and tourism. It also reflects how international politics can influence public attitudes toward travel.

Observers say the debate may encourage Canadians to rethink their travel choices this winter while continuing to support local tourism sectors. They also note that Canada and the U.S. remain deeply connected through travel, trade, and shared regional interests.

Skate Canada Halts Major Figure Skating Events in Alberta Over Sports Gender Law

Canada — Skate Canada has announced it will no longer host national or international figure skating events in Alberta.
The decision follows Alberta’s new legislation regulating gender participation in sports.

The organization said the provincial law conflicts with its commitment to inclusive sport.
As a result, Alberta will not host major Skate Canada events for now.

Reason Behind the Decision

Alberta’s Fairness and Safety in Sport Act came into effect earlier this year.
The law places restrictions on transgender athletes participating in female sports categories.

Skate Canada reviewed the legislation before making its decision.
Officials said they could not align the law with their inclusion policies.

The organization emphasized that safety and fairness remain priorities.
However, it also stressed the importance of welcoming all athletes.

What Events Are Affected

The decision applies only to national and international competitions.
Local and regional skating programs in Alberta will continue.

Skaters in the province can still train and compete at lower levels.
Skate Canada said it remains committed to supporting grassroots skating.

Alberta currently has no major Skate Canada events scheduled.
Past events included national championships and qualifying competitions.

Reaction and Ongoing Debate

Alberta’s government has defended the law.
Officials say it aims to protect fairness and safety in women’s sports.

Critics argue the legislation excludes transgender athletes.
They say it creates barriers and harms mental well-being.

The law remains controversial across Canada.
It forms part of a broader debate about inclusion in competitive sport.

Looking Ahead

Skate Canada said it will continue monitoring the situation in Alberta.
The organization may reconsider hosting events if conditions change.

Officials reaffirmed their commitment to inclusive sport nationwide.
They said athlete well-being remains central to future decisions.

The announcement highlights growing tensions between sport organizations and provincial policies.
It also signals how legislation can influence national sporting events.

Windstorm Turns Deadly After Tree Falls on Woman in Chilliwack

Chilliwack, B.C. — A woman died Monday after a tree fell on her at Island 22 Regional Park in Chilliwack.
The incident occurred during a period of strong winds affecting the Fraser Valley.

Police say the woman was walking on a trail with her two young children at the time.
The tree suddenly fell and struck her during the windstorm.

Witnesses nearby called emergency services and attempted to help.
Despite quick response efforts, the woman died at the scene.

Children Safe, Investigation Underway

RCMP confirmed the children were not physically injured.
They are now in the care of family members.

Police have not released the woman’s identity.
Authorities say they are respecting the family’s privacy during this time.

The B.C. Coroners Service is investigating the circumstances of the death.
Officials will determine whether weather conditions played a direct role.

Severe Weather Hits Fraser Valley

Environment Canada recorded strong wind gusts across the region on Monday.
In Chilliwack, winds reached speeds capable of knocking down trees.

Other parts of southwestern British Columbia experienced even stronger gusts.
The storm caused power outages, fallen trees, and debris across communities.

Emergency crews responded to weather-related incidents throughout the day.
Utility workers worked to restore power amid ongoing wind and rain.

Park Closed After Incident

Officials closed Island 22 Regional Park following the incident.
They have not announced when the park will reopen.

Authorities urge the public to avoid parks and wooded areas during storms.
High winds can weaken trees and cause branches to fall without warning.

Police remind residents to follow weather alerts closely.
They stress that severe conditions increase the risk of outdoor hazards.

Public Safety Reminder

Officials say storms can create dangerous situations quickly.
They advise residents to delay outdoor activities during high-wind events.

Checking weather forecasts before heading out remains critical.
Authorities say caution during severe weather can prevent serious injuries.

The incident serves as a reminder of storm-related risks across the region.
Weather warnings remain in effect for parts of British Columbia this week.