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
Posted inAlberta News Local News News

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
Posted inAlberta News Local News National News

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.
Tractor plowing plow the field on a background sunset. tractor silhouette on sunset background.
Posted inAlberta News National News News

Conservative MP backs bill to speed up farm products to Canada

Conservative MP Branden Leslie supports Bill C-273, which proposes a 90-day provisional approval process for agricultural products already approved in two other jurisdictions. This aims to reduce delays that hinder Canadian farmers' competitiveness. Industry groups endorse the bill, citing significant regulatory challenges that may drive companies away from the Canadian market.
Who’s most at risk of getting shingles?
Posted inAlberta News News

Who’s most at risk of getting shingles?

Shingles affects about 130,000 Canadians annually, with one in three experiencing it during their lifetime. Caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus, shingles leads to painful rashes. Risk factors include age (especially those over 50) and chronic conditions. Vaccination can help prevent shingles, particularly for at-risk individuals.