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Edmonton Pedways Get ID System to Boost 911 Response

James
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Edmonton Pedways Get ID System to Boost 911 Response

Edmonton introduces numbered pedway IDs to speed up 911 emergency response and improve access for first responders across the 13 km network.

Edmonton Pedways to Receive ID Numbers for Faster 911 Response

City announces new system

Edmonton officials unveiled Monday a new identification system for the city’s extensive pedway network, aimed at helping first responders reach emergencies more quickly.

Navigating a complex network

Stretching 13 kilometres and linking 40 buildings and parkades, the pedway system has long posed challenges for pinpointing emergency calls. With only building addresses available, responders often faced delays navigating the underground and aboveground walkways.

How the system works

The city will install about 500 signs across the network, each bearing a unique number. Callers to 911 will be able to provide the pedway ID to dispatchers, who can then direct police, fire, or paramedics to the precise location and nearest access points.

Officials highlight safety gains

Ian Hosler, manager of Edmonton’s pedway identifier program, said the new system gives dispatchers “exactly where help is needed and how to access that location.” Emergency leaders echoed the benefits. Grant Ward of Edmonton Fire Rescue Services noted the identifiers will reduce wasted time moving between buildings, while EPS director Kay Anderson called the system “a game changer” for response times.

Origin during pandemic

The project began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when medical and disorder incidents downtown were on the rise. City staff collaborated with downtown building owners to design a system that could cut through location confusion.

Rollout across downtown

Many ID signs are already visible, with full installation expected in the coming weeks. The system includes major pedway connections such as Corona and Government Centre LRT stations, with MacEwan University slated for future integration.

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Former Maple Ridge Teacher Charged With Sexual Offences

James
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Former Maple Ridge Teacher Charged With Sexual Offences

Ex-teacher Michael Thomas, 39, faces charges of sexual assault and interference in Maple Ridge. District, RCMP acted swiftly.

Teacher Facing Criminal Charges

Michael Thomas, 39, a former teacher at Maple Ridge Secondary, has been charged with sexual assault and sexual interference with a person under 16. The charges, sworn in July 2025, relate to alleged incidents between September 2023 and May 2025 in Maple Ridge.

Complaint Sparked Investigation

Ridge Meadows RCMP said the case began with a complaint in June 2025. Investigators noted that Thomas held a position of authority, prompting their Investigative Support Team to move quickly through interviews and evidence collection.

School District’s Immediate Response

The Maple Ridge – Pitt Meadows School District confirmed Thomas is no longer employed. District officials said he was removed from classroom duties as soon as they learned of the allegations, in line with the B.C. School Act and district policies.

Student Safety at the Forefront

RCMP confirmed the alleged victim was a student during the time of the offences. The district emphasized that its primary responsibility is to protect student privacy and ensure full cooperation with police.

Other Unrelated Case in District

In August 2025, Pitt Meadows Secondary teacher Lovesh Ramsaha was separately charged with four offences, including child luring and distribution of child pornography. The district stressed the two cases are unrelated but acknowledged the unusual timing of both matters surfacing within weeks of each other.

Court Proceedings Ahead

The B.C. Teacher Regulation Branch placed a restriction on Thomas’s ability to practice in June 2025. His next court appearance is scheduled for October 20, 2025, in Port Coquitlam. He remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

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Surrey, B.C. launches $250K reward fund to fight extortion targeting local businesses

MapleNewsWire
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Surrey, B.C. launches $250K reward fund to fight extortion targeting local businesses

Surrey, B.C. – City officials have announced a $250,000 reward program aimed at combating the growing wave of extortion attempts that have largely targeted South Asian-owned businesses in Metro Vancouver.

At a press conference on Monday, Mayor Brenda Locke and Surrey Police Service Chief Const. Norm Lipinski unveiled a dedicated tip line that will provide financial rewards for information leading to arrests and convictions in extortion cases.

“We cannot and will not let extortion take hold in our city,” Mayor Locke said at city hall.

Sharp rise in extortion threats

According to police, Surrey is currently investigating 44 extortion files along with 27 related shootings. The crimes often involve money demands made under threats of violence, leaving many local entrepreneurs and families living in fear.

Chief Const. Lipinski confirmed that the Surrey Police Service (SPS) has a specialized team working on the cases and has already identified persons of interest. He hopes the $250,000 fund will encourage community members to come forward with crucial evidence.

“This reward is intended to motivate individuals to provide specific information that leads to arrests, prosecutions, and convictions,” Lipinski explained.

How to report

Residents can report tips through:

  • Surrey Extortion Tip Line: 236-485-5149 (callers must identify themselves)

  • Crime Stoppers (anonymous): 1-800-222-8477

The reward money will be divided based on the value and usefulness of the information provided.

Broader fight against organized crime

The announcement follows months of escalating threats in Surrey and other Canadian cities. In 2024, the RCMP established a national extortion task force to coordinate investigations in B.C., Alberta, and Ontario, where South Asian businesses have been primary targets.

Earlier this summer, the B.C. government committed $100,000 to a 60-day public awareness campaign urging victims not to stay silent.

Despite these measures, Mayor Locke criticized higher levels of government for not doing enough to address what she described as a transnational criminal problem.

“People are living in fear in our city, and this is not good enough,” Locke said. “We need more support from both federal and provincial governments.”

Police urge victims not to pay

Lipinski stressed that business owners should never give in to extortion demands. Instead, he urged them to preserve evidence—such as threatening emails or phone recordings—and work with police to ensure their safety.

“I really feel for the people of Surrey and the victims who have families,” he said. “Even a small piece of information could lead to a major breakthrough.”

The SPS has been actively investigating the cases since June and continues to collaborate with national and provincial agencies to curb organized crime activity in the region.

EV Fest Showcases Electric Cars and Future Mobility

Henry
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EV Fest Showcases Electric Cars and Future Mobility

Electric Cars Take the Spotlight

Electric cars and clean technology grabbed attention this weekend as EV Fest transformed the IKEA parking lot into a hub for future mobility. Hosted by the Manitoba Electric Vehicle Association, the festival gave visitors a chance to explore plug-in cars, trucks, scooters, and even student-built race cars—without sales pressure.

Education Without the Sales Pitch

James Hart, president of the association, emphasized that the goal was education, not selling. Even dealerships present at the event followed strict no-sales rules. Instead, they answered questions and shared insights, helping curious visitors learn about the fast-changing world of electric mobility.

Hands-On Experiences

Crowds interacted with EV owners who shared first-hand experiences about driving, charging, and maintaining their vehicles. Vendors demonstrated charging options for both homes and public spaces, while University of Manitoba students proudly showcased their electric race cars. The festival created a welcoming space where knowledge flowed naturally and enthusiasm grew with every conversation.

Cold Climate, Smart Solutions

Hart explained how Manitoba’s climate makes electric charging easier than many assume. “We have lots of 120-volt plug-ins available, and for many city drivers, that’s more than enough,” he said. This simple fact helped calm concerns that harsh winters would prevent EV adoption.

Cost Questions Drive Curiosity

The number one question from visitors was cost. Hart tackled the issue directly, explaining that with rebates, tax breaks, and lower maintenance, EVs are becoming highly competitive. He highlighted an example: a Chevrolet Silverado with a 240-kWh battery can travel 700 kilometres for only $24 in electricity. “It’s quiet, efficient, and affordable,” he said, adding that long-term savings make the investment worthwhile.

Tires and Technology Advancing

Beyond batteries and charging, visitors also wanted to know about wear and tear. Hart clarified that while EVs are powerful and torquey, advances in tire technology are helping balance performance and durability. New designs use harder rubber, reducing wear and ensuring drivers enjoy longer-lasting tires without sacrificing handling.

The Road Ahead

The EV Fest wasn’t just about cars—it was about sparking a conversation on sustainability, innovation, and Canada’s place in the global shift toward clean energy. As Hart and others reminded attendees, EV technology is evolving quickly, making each year’s event an opportunity to see how far the industry has come.

Final Note

From cost savings to cleaner driving, Manitoba’s EV Fest proved that curiosity is driving real momentum for electric mobility.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for the next news update.

Bank of Canada Poised for Interest Rate Cut Amid Inflation Pressures

Henry
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Bank of Canada Poised for Interest Rate Cut Amid Inflation Pressures

Rate Decision Comes at a Critical Moment

The Bank of Canada faces a delicate choice this week. With interest rates under scrutiny, policymakers must weigh fresh inflation data, trade tensions, and a weakening job market before making their move. Financial markets now expect a quarter-point cut, bringing the rate down to 2.5 percent.

Inflation Adds Pressure

Statistics Canada’s latest inflation report is expected to show consumer prices climbing back to 2 percent in August, up from 1.7 percent in July. Energy and food costs remain the biggest drivers. Economists believe recent counter-tariffs on items like orange juice contributed to sticky grocery prices. However, September’s tariff rollback could ease future inflation, offering relief to consumers and policymakers alike.

Economy on the Edge

Canada’s economy contracted in the second quarter, raising concerns about an approaching recession. Analysts caution that growth in the second half of the year may be hard to achieve. Ongoing trade disputes, along with softer consumer demand, continue to cloud the outlook. Oxford Economics’ Tony Stillo believes the central bank now sees a cut as an “insurance policy” to support growth.

More Cuts Could Follow

Stillo predicts not just one, but two consecutive cuts this fall. If correct, the policy rate would reach 2.25 percent, the lower end of the so-called neutral range. TD Economics supports this outlook, noting that weaker job numbers and global trade stress leave the bank little choice. Since July, Canada has lost over 100,000 jobs, pushing unemployment up to 7.1 percent.

Labour Market Weakness Spreads

Capital Economics notes that labour market struggles are no longer limited to trade-impacted sectors. Broader job losses are convincing more members of the governing council to support easing. This shift, combined with diminishing inflation risks, makes another rate cut later this year increasingly likely.

Fiscal Policy in Focus

Prime Minister Mark Carney’s upcoming fall budget adds another layer of uncertainty. While he has promised spending restraint on operations, significant investments in defence and infrastructure are expected. Such moves could stimulate the economy and reduce pressure on the Bank of Canada to act too aggressively with monetary policy.

A Cautious Path Ahead

Despite mounting calls for action, the central bank is expected to move cautiously. Trade policies can change suddenly, and officials want to avoid deep cuts they may later have to reverse. Instead, gradual “baby steps” are likely, giving space for both inflation trends and fiscal policy decisions to play out.

The Bottom Line

All eyes are on the Bank of Canada as it navigates inflation risks, job losses, and trade uncertainty. With a rate cut expected this week and possibly another on the horizon, the bank faces one of its toughest balancing acts yet.

Stay connected with Canada’s latest headlines — follow Maple News Wire on Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn.

Good Debt vs Bad Debt: Smart Borrowing Explained

Henry
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Good Debt vs Bad Debt: Smart Borrowing Explained

Why Knowing Debt Types Matters

Understanding good debt and bad debt is key to financial health. While some borrowing builds assets, other types can quickly drag you down. Insolvency expert Marc Rouleau of Doyle Salewski explains how to tell the difference, and why it matters for your future.

What Makes Debt “Good”?

Rouleau stresses that good debt must fit your budget. If monthly payments strain your finances, rethink the plan before signing. He advises borrowers to double-check affordability instead of relying on what lenders say.

Interest rates also matter. The stronger your credit rating, the lower your borrowing costs should be. Paying 15% interest on a mortgage, for example, is far too high. Borrowing for major needs—like a house, car, or education—can qualify as good debt if it aligns with your budget and builds value.

The Risks of Bad Debt

Not all loans benefit you. Payday loans, for instance, often look small at first but carry massive costs. A $50 charge on a $300 loan translates into shockingly high annual interest—sometimes up to 300%.

Rouleau warns against owing money to the Canada Revenue Agency as well. Unlike other creditors, CRA can freeze accounts, garnish wages, or even lien property. Utilities also hold unique leverage since they can cut services if payments fall behind.

Credit card debt remains the most common—and most damaging—form of bad debt. With interest rates above 20%, balances can spiral quickly. Some people try to juggle multiple cards, but that only deepens the problem.

Building a Smarter Debt Plan

Rouleau recommends attaching every loan to a clear purpose or asset. That way, borrowing works for you rather than against you. He also advises avoiding debt that erodes financial stability or piles on unnecessary stress.

If debt keeps you awake at night, he urges seeking professional advice. Experts can walk you through budgets, repayment plans, and strategies to regain control. The peace of mind alone can make a huge difference.

The Bottom Line

Good debt can help you grow, but bad debt can sink you fast. By focusing on smart borrowing, fair rates, and clear plans, you can protect both your wallet and your well-being.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for the next news update.

How to Sleep Better in Hot Weather Nights

Henry
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How to Sleep Better in Hot Weather Nights

Why Hot Nights Hurt Your Sleep

When hot weather disrupts rest, it can leave you drained and irritable. Experts say the best sleep happens between 60°F and 68°F with moderate humidity. Yet rising global temperatures make those conditions harder to maintain. Without cooler nights, your body struggles to lower its core temperature—a critical step for falling asleep.

The Hidden Toll of Sleepless Nights

Sleep is not just about comfort—it’s vital for health. Poor sleep from overheated bedrooms can raise risks of anxiety, diabetes, and heart problems. Over time, restless nights can even shorten life expectancy. Clearly, finding ways to rest well in the heat matters more than ever.

Why Heat Makes It Hard to Rest

Your circadian rhythm relies on temperature drops to signal rest. Heat blocks that process, slowing melatonin release and disrupting your body clock. Instead of deep rest, you face frequent wakeups and less REM sleep. The result? You wake groggy, unfocused, and more fatigued than before.

Simple Tricks to Keep Cool at Night

Block out sunlight. Keep blinds closed during the day to prevent trapped heat. A dark room also promotes better sleep.

Improve airflow. Create cross-ventilation with open windows and fans. This helps circulate cooler night air indoors.

Chill your bed. Cotton sheets breathe better than polyester or silk. For extra relief, freeze pillowcases or use cooling mattress pads.

Cool your body. A cold shower before bed lowers core temperature. A damp towel or forehead compress works as well.

Stay hydrated. Drink water before bedtime and keep a bottle nearby to avoid sleep interruptions.

When Fans Can Backfire

Fans offer white noise and better airflow, but they don’t always help. In very hot, dry air, they can actually raise your body temperature. Experts advise using them only when humidity levels are high enough to balance the heat.

Extra Steps for Better Sleep

Choosing the right mattress makes a difference. Foam traps more heat, while innerspring designs stay cooler. On very hot nights, even sleeping alone can help since sharing a bed adds extra body heat.

Restful Nights Are Possible

Hot weather no longer needs to steal your sleep. With smart strategies—from cooling your bed to managing hydration—you can create comfort and reclaim rest.

Blue Jays Rally Past Orioles for 45th Comeback Win

Willy
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Blue Jays Rally Past Orioles for 45th Comeback Win

Toronto Blue Jays notch MLB-leading 45th comeback win, beating Baltimore Orioles 5-4 with a dramatic ninth-inning rally in Toronto.

A Ninth-Inning Spark

The Toronto Blue Jays staged yet another late-game rally on Saturday, overcoming the Baltimore Orioles 5–4 at Rogers Centre. Alejandro Kirk’s sacrifice fly sealed the comeback, marking the Blue Jays’ 45th come-from-behind victory of the 2025 season — the most in Major League Baseball this year.

The Key Plays

Trailing 4–2 entering the bottom of the ninth, Toronto’s bats came alive. Joey Loperfido delivered a crucial RBI single, followed by Andres Gimenez’s tying hit to score Ernie Clement. With the bases loaded, Kirk lifted a fly ball deep enough to bring Loperfido home, handing Toronto its ninth walk-off win of the season.

Why This Win Matters

The victory pushed Toronto’s record to 86–62, keeping them atop the American League East. Their 45 comeback wins are now the fourth-most in franchise history, surpassing the 1993 World Series team’s tally of 44. The Blue Jays are also chasing a first-round playoff bye, holding a slim edge over the New York Yankees.

Players’ Perspective

“The energy in the dugout is unbelievable in those moments,” Kirk said through translator Hector Lebron. “Everybody’s locked in on every pitch. That’s what helps us win.” Manager John Schneider praised the team’s resilience but admitted the late rallies come with stress. “It’s not great for my heart, but it’s amazing to watch unfold,” he said.

Pitching Decisions and Strategy

Veteran starter Max Scherzer pitched five innings, allowing two runs on four hits with five strikeouts. At 41, Scherzer is managing his workload ahead of the postseason. “We’re making sure I’m fresh for the stretch run,” he explained. Reliever Braydon Fisher earned the win, improving his record to 6–0.

What Comes Next

Toronto’s three-game win streak has kept them three games ahead of the Yankees, who also won Saturday. The Blue Jays continue their push for the division crown, while the Milwaukee Brewers became the first MLB team to clinch a playoff spot later that day. For Toronto, the focus remains clear: lock down the AL East and carry comeback momentum into October.

Stay connected with Canada’s latest headlines — follow Maple News Wire on Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn.

Canada’s Evan Dunfee Strikes Gold in 35K Race Walk

Willy
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Canada’s Evan Dunfee Strikes Gold in 35K Race Walk

Evan Dunfee of Richmond, B.C. wins 35K race walk at World Athletics Championships, securing Canada’s first gold at the 2025 event.

Veteran Walker Claims World Title

Evan Dunfee of Richmond, B.C., captured gold in the men’s 35-kilometre race walk at the World Athletics Championships on Friday. The 34-year-old overtook the leading pack in the final stretch to deliver Canada its first gold medal of the competition.

Breaking Away in the Final Kilometres

Dunfee clocked a winning time of two hours, 28 minutes, and 22 seconds, finishing 33 seconds ahead of Caio Bonfim of Brazil. Japan’s Hayato Katsuki took bronze in 2:29:16. Dunfee surged past the top five walkers in the last eight kilometres, cementing his reputation as a strong closer in endurance events.

Decades of Dedication

The victory marks a career milestone for Dunfee, who described the result as “25 years in the making.” Competing in his seventh world championships, he previously earned bronze in the 50K walk at both the 2019 World Championships and the Tokyo Olympics, along with Commonwealth gold in the 10K walk in 2022.

Overcoming Pain for Glory

Reflecting on the win, Dunfee admitted the final two kilometres were grueling. “I’ve never been in that much pain in my life,” he said. “I just kept thinking one more step, one more step. Coming into the stadium and realizing I could actually win — it was incredible.”

Canadian Representation on the Women’s Side

In the women’s 35K race walk, Nanaimo’s Olivia Lundman was unable to finish after being disqualified at the eight-kilometre mark. Spain’s Maria Perez went on to win the event in 2:39:01. At just 22, Lundman remains a promising talent for Canada despite the setback.

Looking Toward the Future

Dunfee’s gold is a historic moment for Canadian athletics, further solidifying his legacy as one of the nation’s most decorated race walkers. With the Olympic program now featuring only the 20K walk, where Dunfee placed fifth in Paris last year, his latest triumph ensures momentum as Canada builds toward future international competitions.

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Nova Scotia Apple Growers Battle Crop Loss After Dry Season

Henry
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Nova Scotia Apple Growers Battle Crop Loss After Dry Season

Farmers Face Tough Season After Dry Spell

Nova Scotia apple growers are raising alarms as an unusually dry season threatens orchards across the province. With the lack of rainfall persisting, the challenges for farmers are mounting, and the uncertainty about this year’s apple crops is only deepening.

Emily Lutz of the Nova Scotia Fruit Growers’ Association explained that orchards in the Annapolis Valley missed most of the rainfall that other regions received. This left apple, peach, and pear crops struggling to meet market standards.

Apples Too Small to Sell

For apple growers, size and appearance matter. Buyers expect fruit that meets strict requirements, but this year’s dry weather has resulted in undersized apples with weaker color.

“When apples don’t reach the right size or shine, they become very hard to sell,” Lutz said. Farmers now face a painful choice—harvest smaller fruit in hopes of finding a market or leave them on the trees altogether.

Long-Term Worries About Orchards

Beyond this year’s yield, the health of the trees themselves is another pressing issue. Prolonged drought leaves trees weaker, and some may not survive the coming winter.

Replacing trees is not a quick fix. Lutz noted that new plantings can take up to five years before producing market-ready apples. That means today’s dry season could impact harvests for years to come.

Rain Could Help, but It’s Too Late for This Year

Although it’s too late to rescue this season’s crop, farmers say some gentle, steady rainfall would strengthen trees for the future. However, a heavy downpour could harm both the remaining harvest and the fruit headed into storage.

“The damage is done for this season,” Lutz explained, “but the right kind of rain could at least help protect next year’s growth.”

Smaller Apples Still Worth Buying

Despite the hardships, Lutz reassured consumers that apples will still reach markets this fall. While they may be smaller than usual, their quality remains intact.

“There will be apples, and though some may be smaller, they taste just as good,” she said. “In fact, they fit better in your lunchbox.”

Nova Scotia’s growers remain resilient, but the season serves as a sharp reminder of how weather extremes continue to shape agriculture.

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Springer Powers Jays Sweep Ahead of Yesavage Debut

Willy
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Springer Powers Jays Sweep Ahead of Yesavage Debut

George Springer leads Blue Jays to sweep of Orioles as top prospect Trey Yesavage prepares for MLB debut against Rays.

Veteran Leads the Charge

George Springer delivered another standout performance as the Toronto Blue Jays completed an 11–2 sweep of the Baltimore Orioles on Sunday at Rogers Centre. The 35-year-old outfielder homered, added two doubles, and drove in two runs, fueling Toronto’s 87th win of the season.

A Rising Prospect Awaits

Before the game, the Blue Jays announced that top pitching prospect Trey Yesavage will make his long-anticipated Major League debut Monday against the Tampa Bay Rays. The 22-year-old right-hander, ranked as Toronto’s most promising young arm, spent the weekend soaking in advice from veterans.

Sunday’s Statement Win

The win marked Toronto’s 10th series sweep of the year, putting them just behind the MLB-leading Milwaukee Brewers. Starter Shane Bieber pitched six solid innings before the bullpen closed out the rout in front of 40,032 fans. Infielder Ernie Clement also contributed a key two-run double that gave Toronto a lead they never relinquished.

Managerial Confidence

Manager John Schneider praised Springer’s resurgence, calling his season “one of the best of his career.” With a .303 average, 29 home runs, and a .949 OPS, Springer now trails only Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani in Major League hitting efficiency. Schneider emphasized that Springer’s energy sets the tone for the entire lineup.

Rookie’s Big Moment

Yesavage, who observed Sunday’s game from the dugout, leaned on advice from Bieber: “Be yourself. Throw strikes. Enjoy it.” Schneider stressed that the decision to promote Yesavage was deliberate, aimed at strengthening the rotation in a playoff push, not as an experiment.

Playoff Push Intensifies

The Blue Jays, now holding a 3.5-game lead in the American League East, enter the final two weeks of the regular season in control of their destiny. With 50 home wins already secured, the team has momentum heading into a crucial stretch. As Clement put it, “We’re all on the same page right now. I think we’re going to finish strong.”

Stay connected with Canada’s latest headlines — follow Maple News Wire on Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn.

Jennifer Jones Helped Push Sports to Support Moms

Willy
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Jennifer Jones Helped Push Sports to Support Moms

Canadian curling star Jennifer Jones’ advocacy for nursing mothers has reshaped how sports accommodate athletes balancing family and competition.

A Turning Point in Curling

Canadian curling legend Jennifer Jones sparked change at the 2016 Scotties Tournament of Hearts in Grande Prairie, Alberta, when she raised concerns about the lack of safe and private spaces for nursing mothers. At the time, players were told they could not breastfeed in locker rooms, leaving them to nurse in cars, stands, or nearby facilities.

The Voice Behind the Change

Although Jones was not breastfeeding then, she had lived the struggle of managing childcare while competing. Quiet by nature, she initially asked for anonymity when sharing the issue with a Winnipeg reporter. Once the story went public, organizers quickly created designated spaces for mothers — a first step toward better support in curling.

Balancing Gold Medals and Motherhood

Jones, an Olympic gold medallist and multiple-time world champion, welcomed her first child in 2012 while recovering from injury. Her return to competition required balancing intense schedules with nursing and childcare. Without dedicated spaces, she often fed her child in public, sometimes signing autographs at the same time.

Why Advocacy Was Necessary

The lack of facilities highlighted gaps in gender equity within sports. “We were lucky in curling that a lot of things were equal, but there were some things that just were never thought of,” Jones reflected in a recent interview. She pushed for solutions not just for herself, but for all mothers trying to compete at the highest level.

Progress on the International Stage

Since then, sports organizations worldwide have made strides. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, family-friendly areas were established inside venues, a sharp contrast to 2014 when Jones had to pump and deliver bottles outside the Olympic village. The 2021 Games also allowed breastfeeding mothers to bring infants, reversing initial restrictions that excluded children.

Looking Ahead

Canada has continued the momentum, with the 2025 Canada Games in St. John’s offering hotel nursing spaces for travelling coaches. Experts like retired nurse Janet Fox-Beer say these changes benefit entire communities, not just athletes. For Jones, the progress is encouraging, though she admits one regret: “I wish I would have shouted it from the rooftops.”

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