Alberta counsellor wants to shine spotlight on mental health of farmers
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Alberta counsellor wants to shine spotlight on mental health of farmers

As Canada approaches its 75th Annual Mental Health Week, Rasha Taha, a social worker from the Calgary Counselling Centre, emphasizes the need for mental health support among farmers. Studies indicate worsening mental health in the agriculture sector, highlighting the importance of erasing stigma and encouraging help-seeking behavior in rural communities.
US State passes law requiring half of advertising dollars be spent with community news outlets
Posted inNews Out-of-Town News

US State passes law requiring half of advertising dollars be spent with community news outlets

Maryland has passed groundbreaking legislation requiring state agencies to allocate 50 percent of their advertising budgets to eligible local news outlets, becoming the first state to implement such a policy. This bipartisan measure aims to boost the struggling local news sector, promote community journalism, and enhance transparency in government advertising spending.
County of Stettler ASB questions late rollout of new strychnine program
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County of Stettler ASB questions late rollout of new strychnine program

The County of Stettler's Ag Service Board discussed the federal government's limited approval of strychnine for gopher control at their April 15 meeting. Manager Rob Klatt expressed concerns over the small quantity allocated, which could frustrate producers. With a tight June 15 deadline for use, questions about distribution and demand were raised.
Faculty of Education dean voices concerns about province’s teaching certificates announcement
Posted inAlberta News News

Faculty of Education dean voices concerns about province’s teaching certificates announcement

Faculty of Education deans in Alberta express concerns over the government's expedited teaching certificates, fearing they will lower educational quality. Lisa Starr from the University of Lethbridge highlights that fast-tracked teachers may lack essential pedagogical skills, potentially leading to a two-tiered education system, especially in rural areas facing teacher shortages.
Volunteering helps build multiple career tools
Posted inNews Out-of-Town News

Volunteering helps build multiple career tools

Keara Higgins, a local volunteer and secretary at the Garden of the Gulf Museum in Montague, PEI, advocates for increased youth involvement in volunteering. Despite declining participation, she emphasizes the benefits of networking, skill development, and community connections. Volunteering offers valuable experience and fosters personal achievements, particularly in the arts sector.
Feedback sought on beef producers code of conduct
Posted inNational News News

Feedback sought on beef producers code of conduct

The National Farm Animal Care Council is seeking public feedback on a newly drafted code of practice for beef producers, aimed at enhancing cattle welfare. Key changes include increased monitoring during extreme weather, shelter requirements, and pain management during calving. The comment period is open until June 12, with final updates anticipated by 2027.
Several Alberta school divisions banned books to comply with provincial order
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Several Alberta school divisions banned books to comply with provincial order

Alberta's new library standards led to the removal of over 170 books from school libraries, including graphic novels and poetry collections, to comply with restrictions on sexual content. School divisions varied in enforcement, often removing titles for minor depictions. Critics argue this limits students' access to valuable literature and hampers intellectual growth.