Teenagers ditch smartphones for flip phones in brain-scan study
Posted inAlberta News News Out-of-Town News

Teenagers ditch smartphones for flip phones in brain-scan study

Calgary high school student Jarrett Gross initiated a flip phone study to address smartphone addiction among peers. Involving seven participants, including friends and family, the study aims to examine psychological effects through brain scans. Preliminary observations indicate that reduced smartphone use may enhance mindfulness and sensory perception, sparking interest in further research.
Sovereignty or Stewardship? The $28.7M Rift Dividing the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations
Posted inAlberta News News Out-of-Town News

Sovereignty or Stewardship? The $28.7M Rift Dividing the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations

Indigenous Services Canada has mandated the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations to repay $28.7 million for “ineligible and unsupported” expenses. Amid a KPMG audit, FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron defends the spending as justified for urgent pandemic needs, while Chief Mark Arcand criticizes FSIN for a lack of transparency and accountability.
Advocate says light at end of tunnel for rural service issues
Posted inAlberta News News Out-of-Town News

Advocate says light at end of tunnel for rural service issues

Jackie Northey presented to the Town of Bashaw council, highlighting improvements in rural service delivery through a collaborative model. She emphasized overcoming fragmentation, particularly in healthcare access, and pointed out that Bashaw's integrated system allows residents to access multiple services seamlessly. Positive feedback indicates potential for broader adoption across Alberta and Canada.
BC says Free Contraceptives Program has been a big success
Posted inNational News News Out-of-Town News

BC says Free Contraceptives Program has been a big success

British Columbia's free contraceptives program has dispensed over 407,000 contraceptives since its launch in 2023, significantly increasing access to long-acting methods like IUDs. The initiative addresses financial barriers and promotes reproductive autonomy. AccessBC emphasizes the need for broader contraceptive options and highlights ongoing advocacy for improvements in pain management during IUD insertions.
New study finds Canadians generating large amounts of electronic waste
Posted inAlberta News National News News

New study finds Canadians generating large amounts of electronic waste

A study by the University of Waterloo predicts Canada will produce 2.3 million tons of e-waste between 2025 and 2030, driven by short electronics lifespans. E-waste contains hazardous materials that pose environmental and health risks, especially in developing countries where it is exported. Promoting longer product lifetimes and refurbished products is essential.
Town of Hanna council hears about mental health calls
Posted inAlberta News News Out-of-Town News

Town of Hanna council hears about mental health calls

The Town of Hanna council discussed police challenges with mental health calls during a recent meeting. RCMP commander S/Sgt. Rob Welsman provided a quarterly update, noting static crime rates and emphasizing community policing priorities, including traffic enforcement, community engagement, and monitoring offenders. Mayor Povaschuk highlighted rising oilfield crime concerns.
Bell’s historic AI investment in Sask. followed record lobbying from company
Posted inNational News News Out-of-Town News

Bell’s historic AI investment in Sask. followed record lobbying from company

Bell Canada announced on March 16 its plan to construct a 90,000 square foot AI data centre near Regina, marking its largest investment in Saskatchewan. This development follows extensive lobbying efforts by Bell aimed at influencing local policies on technological innovations. The centre is projected to be operational by late 2027.
Parkinson Association of Alberta urges public to take part in Sit ‘N Stand Challenge
Posted inAlberta News News Out-of-Town News

Parkinson Association of Alberta urges public to take part in Sit ‘N Stand Challenge

The Parkinson Association of Alberta is encouraging residents to support those with Parkinson's disease during April's Awareness Month by participating in the Sit ‘N Stand Challenge. The goal is to complete 500,000 sit-to-stands to promote movement and solidarity. The association also offers events to raise awareness and support the community.
Medical Examiner in Newfoundland has begun tracking gambling as a risk factor in suicides
Posted inNational News News Out-of-Town News

Medical Examiner in Newfoundland has begun tracking gambling as a risk factor in suicides

Brad Glynn of Lifewise NL emphasizes the importance of tracking gambling as a suicide risk factor in Newfoundland and Labrador. The Chief Medical Examiner's Office has begun collecting relevant data, addressing a previously neglected area. Enhanced understanding could inform prevention efforts, although details on practical methodologies remain scarce.