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North Delta Rotary 50/50 Draw Boosts Student Support

James
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North Delta Rotary 50/50 Draw Boosts Student Support

North Delta Rotary’s fall 50/50 raffle will expand its Magic Pencil program, providing school supplies and winter clothing to students in need.

Local Raffle Expands Support for Students in Need

The Rotary Club of North Delta has launched its fall 50/50 raffle to raise funds for the Magic Pencil program, an initiative that supplies essential school materials to local students. This year, the program will also cover warm winter clothing for children in need, addressing both educational and seasonal challenges faced by vulnerable families.

Program Founded Through School Partnership

Launched in 2023 in collaboration with the Delta School District, the Magic Pencil program provides annual funding to every elementary and secondary school in North Delta. Teachers use the funds to purchase school supplies for students whose families are unable to afford them. The program’s pilot year earned strong praise from educators for reducing the financial strain on classrooms.

Growing Needs in the Community

According to district estimates, school supplies cost about $100 for elementary students and $150 for those in secondary school. Nearly 600 children in North Delta’s 14 public elementary schools are food insecure, suggesting many also lack access to supplies and adequate clothing. Data from the Early Development Instrument shows 28.4% of Delta kindergarten students are vulnerable in at least one developmental area, with North Delta East reporting the highest rates in the city.

Rotary’s Expanded Vision for 2025

The Rotary Club’s goal this year is to ensure no child’s education is compromised by the absence of supplies, proper clothing, or nutritious food. The program’s initial funding came from the Delta Community Foundation’s Community Prosperity Fund, supplemented by grants and community donations to sustain its $35,000 annual budget.

How the 50/50 Draw Works

To fund the program’s expansion, Rotary members are selling raffle tickets at local grocery stores, community events, and online. Tickets are priced at $10 each, four for $20, or 20 for $50. The draw will take place on Thursday, October 16, 2025. As of August 14, the jackpot had reached $9,260, guaranteeing the winner at least $4,630.

Impact on Student Success

Research from Canada, Australia, and California has found that strong early development scores are linked to higher academic achievement in Grade 3, especially in literacy and math. By covering both school supplies and winter clothing, the Magic Pencil program aims to give North Delta students the tools they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond.

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

TIFF Restores Oct. 7 Documentary After Backlash

James
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TIFF Restores Oct. 7 Documentary After Backlash

TIFF reverses its decision to pull The Road Between Us, a documentary on the October 7 Hamas attack, after resolving legal and safety issues.

Film Returns to TIFF Lineup

The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) has reinstated The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue into its 2025 program after initially pulling it over legal and security concerns. The decision follows public criticism from community groups, politicians, and audiences worldwide.

Public Pressure Leads to Resolution

TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey and director Barry Avrich released a joint statement confirming they had resolved “important safety, legal, and programming concerns.” The statement acknowledged public “pain and frustration” over the removal and confirmed the film will now be screened.

Earlier Withdrawal Sparked Controversy

The documentary was removed earlier this week after organizers said it lacked proper legal clearance for some footage and posed security risks. Some of the content includes images recorded by Hamas during the October 7, 2023, attack in Israel. Critics accused TIFF of censorship, while supporters cited the importance of artistic freedom.

Story of a High-Risk Rescue

The film tells the story of retired Israeli Major General Noam Tibon, who raced to save his family and others during the October 7 assault, which left over 1,200 dead and more than 250 taken hostage, according to Israeli figures.

TIFF Apologizes for Communication Gap

TIFF admitted it had not clearly communicated its reasons for withdrawing the film. “Our communication did not fully articulate the concerns and roadblocks, and for that, we are sorry,” the joint statement read.

Festival Dates and Audience Impact

TIFF runs from September 4 to 14, 2025, in Toronto. The reinstatement highlights ongoing debates about balancing safety, legal obligations, and the presentation of challenging stories at Canadian cultural institutions.

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

Poilievre Targets Liberal EV Sales Mandate This Fall

James
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Poilievre Targets Liberal EV Sales Mandate This Fall

Pierre Poilievre vows to make repealing Canada’s EV sales mandate a top Conservative priority during the fall parliamentary session.

Poilievre Plans National Push to Repeal EV Policy

Conservatives Outline Fall Parliamentary Priority

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre announced Thursday that his party will launch a national campaign this fall aimed at overturning the federal electric vehicle (EV) sales mandate. Speaking in Corman Park, Saskatchewan, Poilievre described the policy as “a complete disaster” and promised motions, petitions, and coordinated public pressure to force the Liberal government to reverse course.

Mandate’s Requirements and Deadlines

The Liberal plan sets binding sales targets for zero-emission vehicles, requiring 20 % of all new light-duty vehicle sales to be electric or hybrid by 2026, 60 % by 2030, and 100 % by 2035. Ottawa argues the mandate is a cornerstone of its climate strategy to cut transportation-related emissions.

Industry Pushback and Economic Concerns

Automakers, including executives from Canada’s three largest manufacturers, have warned that meeting next year’s 20 % target is not feasible. They cite falling EV demand, the expiry of the federal rebate program, and the strain of U.S. tariffs as major obstacles. Industry leaders argue that the mandate could lead to production cuts and significant job losses.

Political Pressure and Government Response

Poilievre has repeatedly urged Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government to drop the policy, framing it as an infringement on consumer choice. Although Carney has already reversed other Trudeau-era policies—such as the carbon tax—the Liberals have not confirmed whether the EV mandate will remain in place following high-level meetings with industry in July.

Rebate Program Funding Shortfall

The federal EV incentive program, which offered up to $5,000 toward an electric car and $2,500 for plug-in hybrids, was paused in January after exhausting its funding months ahead of schedule. Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin has indicated a new rebate scheme is under consideration but has provided no timeline.

Upcoming Political Context

Despite losing his seat in the spring election, Poilievre is expected to return to Parliament quickly, with a by-election in a safe Conservative riding set for Monday. The House of Commons resumes mid-September, giving the Conservatives a platform to push the repeal effort as one of their first acts in the new session.

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

Saskatchewan Flyers Await Outcome of Air Canada Talks

James
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0
Saskatchewan Flyers Await Outcome of Air Canada Talks

Saskatchewan travellers face possible weekend flight chaos as Air Canada and CUPE near strike deadline, with over 500 cancellations expected.

Saskatchewan Residents Face Uncertain Travel Plans

Air Canada passengers in Saskatchewan are bracing for major disruptions as the airline and its flight attendants’ union approach a Saturday strike or lockout deadline. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), representing over 10,000 flight attendants at Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge, issued a 72-hour strike notice Wednesday. Air Canada responded with its own lockout notice, prompting early cancellations beginning Thursday.

Federal Mediation Efforts Underway

To avoid a shutdown, Air Canada has asked Ottawa to send both sides to binding arbitration under Section 107 of the Canada Labour Code. Federal Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu has given CUPE until Friday at 12 p.m. ET to respond. Without an agreement, flights nationwide could halt by Saturday morning.

Local Airports Prepare for Major Impact

At Regina International Airport—where Air Canada accounts for about 35% of departures—CEO James Bogusz warns of “significant cancellations” affecting daily routes to Toronto and Vancouver. He advises travellers to verify flight status before leaving home and ensure the airline has up-to-date contact details for alerts.

Passengers Share Concerns

Saskatoon resident Tammy Lazar, returning from Zimbabwe, fears missing her Toronto–Saskatoon connection if flights are cancelled. Allan McPherson, departing for Ontario, is worried about his return journey, while Halley Hall-Smith is anxious about her 12-year-old son’s first solo trip to Montreal. Others, like Amber Clark, express concern about work travel plans booked months in advance.

Dispute Centres on Pay for Ground Duties

The union says wages have not kept pace with inflation and that flight attendants are unpaid for pre-flight and post-landing duties. Air Canada has offered to pay 50% of the hourly rate for this time; CUPE is demanding 100%. Similar concerns have been raised by flight attendants at other carriers, prompting calls for Labour Code reforms—though recent legislative attempts failed before prorogation.

Airline Offers Flexible Rebooking

Air Canada is allowing passengers with tickets booked for August 15–18 (purchased before August 13) to change flights free of charge for travel between August 21 and September 12. The airline says it will attempt to rebook cancelled passengers on the earliest available flight, using more than 120 partner carriers.

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

Heavy Rain Ends Ban as Northern Sask. Fires Contained

James
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Heavy Rain Ends Ban as Northern Sask. Fires Contained

Rainfall eases wildfire danger in northern Saskatchewan, prompting fire ban lift and community recovery efforts.

Three Major Wildfires Declared Contained

The Ditch, Shoe, and Wolf wildfires—three of the most destructive in Saskatchewan this year—are now officially contained. The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) confirmed the progress Thursday, crediting recent rainfall for the turnaround in firefighting efforts.

Rainfall Brings Critical Relief

Over the past several days, precipitation between 5 and 20 millimetres fell across northern fire zones. SPSA operations vice-president Steve Roberts said the rainfall allowed crews to strengthen containment lines and reduced the risk to nearby communities and infrastructure.

A Season Marked by Record Losses

This wildfire season ranks among the worst in provincial history, forcing evacuations in 38 communities and causing record destruction of homes and other structures in northern forests. While no highways were closed as of Thursday afternoon, smoky conditions remain in some areas.

Emergency Resources Adjusted

With containment improving, SPSA has released some external firefighting resources, including Quebec air tankers and Australian crews. However, 300 Canadian Armed Forces members remain to assist with firefighting and cleanup. Additional personnel from Parks Canada, Ontario, Yukon, Mexico, and North Dakota are still deployed in the province.

Evacuations Lifted, But Some Still Displaced

Orders have been lifted for Lac La Plonge, Île-à-la-Crosse, Canoe Lake, and Canoe Narrows. Around 1,100 people remain away from home, with Pinehouse, La Plonge Reserve, Jans Bay, Patuanak, and English River First Nation still under evacuation. Vulnerable residents from Beauval also remain displaced for safety.

Recovery Support Underway

Denare Beach and East Trout Lake sustained the most significant property losses. A resiliency centre in Denare Beach is offering assistance from SGI, the Saskatchewan Health Authority, the Canadian Red Cross, and Social Services, supporting about 500 residents. Cleanup and debris removal continue.

Active Fire Count and Local Restrictions

As of Thursday, 75 wildfires remain active. This year’s total of 466 fires is just below last year’s 476 but above the five-year average of 372. The province lifted its fire ban at 11 p.m. CST Wednesday, though municipalities and parks may still enforce local restrictions. Residents are urged to check the SPSA’s fire-ban map or SaskParks updates before lighting fires.

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

Calgary Stabbing Victim Dies Weeks After Attack

James
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0
Calgary Stabbing Victim Dies Weeks After Attack

A man stabbed in downtown Calgary on July 24 has died after three weeks in hospital. Two people face charges as police continue their investigation.

Downtown Calgary Stabbing Turns Fatal

A man injured in a violent downtown Calgary incident on July 24 has died from his injuries, police confirmed on Wednesday. The case, initially treated as aggravated assault, is now a homicide investigation.

Details of the July 24 Incident

The stabbing occurred at approximately 8:40 p.m. near the Calgary Drop-In Centre, at the southeast corner of Riverfront Avenue S.E. and Fourth Street S.E. Police say the attack coincided with a robbery in the same location.

Victim Identified After Hospital Battle

The victim has been identified as 37-year-old Gurdeep Singh Mundi. He was transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries and remained under intensive care for three weeks before succumbing to his wounds.

Two Suspects Taken Into Custody

Calgary police arrested two individuals shortly after the incident. Both were charged with aggravated assault and robbery. Additional charges include failure to comply with an undertaking for one suspect, and breach of probation for the other.

Initial Confusion Over Second Stabbing

Early reports suggested one suspect was also the victim of another stabbing nearby. Police have since clarified that his injuries occurred several days earlier and were unrelated to the July 24 attack.

Appeal for Witnesses and Footage

Investigators are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has video from the area between 8:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. on July 24 to contact police. The investigation remains ongoing.

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

B.C. South Coast Braces for Up to 80 mm Rainfall Friday

James
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0
B.C. South Coast Braces for Up to 80 mm Rainfall Friday

Environment Canada warns of up to 80 mm rain Friday on B.C.’s South Coast. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding and dangerous water levels.

B.C.’s South Coast Faces Torrential Rain Friday

Environment Canada has issued a rainfall warning for Metro Vancouver, Howe Sound, and the Sunshine Coast. The alert predicts up to 80 millimetres of rain in 24 hours, with the heaviest precipitation in higher elevations.

Unseasonable Weather System Driving the Storm

According to Christy Climenhaga, scientist with Environment and Climate Change Canada, the downpour will be caused by an unusual, moisture-laden Pacific frontal system. She said this amount of rainfall is rare for August and will arrive in a short period of time.

When the Heaviest Rain Will Hit

Rain is expected to intensify Friday afternoon, delivering 50–80 mm in most areas and up to 80 mm at higher altitudes. Environment Canada warns of possible flash flooding and roadway pooling during peak hours.

Communities Under the Rainfall Warning

Areas affected include Bowen Island, Coquitlam, Gibsons, Maple Ridge, North Vancouver, Squamish, and West Vancouver. Residents in elevated terrain are likely to experience the highest rainfall totals.

Flood and Streamflow Risks

The B.C. River Forecast Centre has issued a high streamflow advisory for the South Coast, including Howe Sound, Sea to Sky, and Pemberton regions. Rivers, creeks, and low-lying areas may see rapidly rising water levels, posing hazards to campers and drivers.

Safety Advice for Outdoor Activities

Squamish Search and Rescue is urging caution. Spokesperson Christy Allan warns that heavy rain and low cloud can hinder rescue operations, and river levels may surge unexpectedly. She recommends delaying outdoor trips and calling for help early if trouble arises.

Storm Expected to Ease by Late Friday

Environment Canada expects rainfall to taper off late Friday along the Sunshine Coast and after midnight in Metro Vancouver. Officials advise residents to monitor weather alerts and plan travel or outdoor activities accordingly.

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

Ottawa Confirms 5th Measles Case, Lists Exposure Sites

James
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0
Ottawa Confirms 5th Measles Case, Lists Exposure Sites

Ottawa Public Health confirms a fifth measles case tied to travel. Six locations flagged; residents urged to monitor symptoms for 21 days.

Travel-Linked Case Confirmed

Ottawa Public Health (OPH) announced Thursday that the city has recorded its fifth measles case this year. The infection was contracted during recent travel to western Canada, officials said.

Exposure Sites Identified

OPH is advising residents who visited specific locations between August 5 and August 8 to monitor for symptoms. The sites include:

  • Shoppers Drug Mart, 702 Bank St. – Aug. 5, 9–11:30 p.m.
  • Michaels, 165 Trainyards Dr. – Aug. 5, 8:15–10:30 p.m.
  • Fitness Lab, 34 Beech St. – Aug. 6, 5:45–8:45 a.m.
  • Wilf and Ada’s, 510 Bank St. – Aug. 7, 12:30–4 p.m.
  • Izakaya Shingen, 201 Bank St. – Aug. 8, 5–8 p.m.
  • Cineplex Odeon, 2385 City Park Dr. – Aug. 8, 6:50 p.m. showing of Fantastic Four: First Steps.

Hospital Notification Underway

The Ottawa Hospital confirmed an isolated measles case in its General campus emergency department, prompting notification of staff and patients potentially exposed during that visit. OPH confirmed it was the same patient identified in their advisory.

Risk Assessment Remains Low

Health officials stressed that the overall risk to the public remains low. No evidence of local transmission has been found in 2025, though Ontario’s ongoing outbreak has reported over 2,300 cases province-wide. Two of Ottawa’s five cases are linked to that outbreak.

Guidance for Residents

People present at the listed locations during the stated times should monitor for fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, or rash for 21 days. Those who develop symptoms are urged to call ahead before visiting a clinic, wear a mask, and inform providers of possible exposure.

Preventing Future Spread

OPH reminds residents that the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective protection. Two doses provide about 99% immunity. Immunization records can be checked through Ontario’s Immunization Connect system or the CANImmunize app.

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

White Rock Opens All-Ages Splash Pad at Centennial Park

James
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White Rock Opens All-Ages Splash Pad at Centennial Park

White Rock’s new accessible splash pad opens Aug. 19 at Centennial Park, offering inclusive water play for residents and visitors.

Launch Event Details

The City of White Rock will officially open its newest recreational feature — an accessible splash pad at Centennial Park — at noon on Tuesday, August 19. The public is invited to attend and experience the facility on its first day of operation.

Location and Design Features

Situated beside the Generations Playground at 14600 North Bluff Road, the splash pad is built for people of all ages and abilities. It includes a spray cannon, a large dumping bucket, ground-level sprays, and a spray tunnel for interactive water play.

Community and Funding Support

The project was made possible through donations and endorsements from the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation and the White Rock Firefighters Charity Association, both long-time supporters of local community initiatives.

Construction Timeline

Work on the splash pad began in late April, led by GPM Civil Contracting Inc. The project was completed ahead of schedule earlier this month, allowing for a summer launch.

Civic Perspective

Mayor Megan Knight described the splash pad as a reflection of White Rock’s values of inclusivity, community connection, and play. “We’re proud to provide a space where residents and visitors can enjoy the outdoors and make lasting memories,” she said.

Purpose and Impact

City officials say the splash pad adds to White Rock’s recreational amenities, encouraging year-round community engagement and offering a safe, fun space for residents and visitors alike.

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

Forest Fire Alert Issued in Annapolis County

James
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0
Forest Fire Alert Issued in Annapolis County

Nova Scotia warns West Dalhousie residents to be ready to evacuate as wildfire nears Godfrey Lake. No evacuation order issued yet.

Wildfire Warning Issued for West Dalhousie Area

Residents Urged to Stay Ready

Nova Scotia’s Department of Natural Resources has issued a forest fire alert for part of Annapolis County, advising certain residents to prepare for possible evacuation. The warning follows wildfire activity in the Godfrey Lake area that could intensify with changing weather conditions.

Emergency Alert Issued Wednesday

The emergency notice, sent Wednesday night, covers West Dalhousie Road from Morse Road to the community centre at 4868 West Dalhousie Road. Officials stressed this is not an evacuation order but a precautionary measure to ensure readiness if fire behaviour shifts.

Location and Scope

The alert applies to the rural community of West Dalhousie, situated in Annapolis County. The Godfrey Lake region is known for its dense forest cover, which can fuel wildfires and create unpredictable hazards for nearby residents.

Reason for the Precaution

Authorities say the decision was made due to active wildfire conditions in the area and the potential for rapid spread. Wind patterns, dry vegetation, and fluctuating weather can cause fires to change direction quickly, prompting the need for advance warning.

Emergency Measures in Place

Local fire crews and provincial emergency management teams remain on standby. Residents are being urged to prepare essentials such as identification, medications, and important documents, in case an evacuation order is issued.

Public Advisory

Officials recommend staying informed via provincial emergency alerts, monitoring local news, and avoiding the affected area unless necessary. The situation is under constant review, with safety as the top priority.

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