Algoma Public Health has approved its 2026 budget at $18.4M, meaning residents across the region will see another nine per cent increase on the public health portion of their tax bill — the second straight year of a similar hike.

A groundbreaking medical project could soon let specialists in Toronto perform life-saving stroke procedures on patients in SSM — using a robot. After 10 successful remote-controlled brain angiograms, St. Michael’s Hospital is preparing to extend the technology more than 600 km

A growing number of Quebec physicians say they may leave the province following the introduction of Bill 2, a new law tying compensation to patient-volume performance targets. Many doctors warn this could lower quality of care, calling it “fast food medicine,”.

🏅 Do you know someone making a big impact in our community? The City of Sault Ste. Marie is now accepting nominations for the 2025 Medal of Merit Award — recognizing individuals or groups whose achievements have made a positive difference locally or beyond.

Speak English with confidence! Denise is an experienced adult educator who specializes in helping learners improve their English speaking, listening, and writing skills — so you can express yourself clearly and confidently in everyday life. Email: eslwithdenise@gmail.com

City council has approved the “Sault Loops” system, designed to boost efficiency and cut travel times — all while keeping costs steady. Buses will depart every 15 mins instead of 30, with four two-directional routes that help riders cross the city without needing a transfer.

A national survey from the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation paints a worrying picture: half of Canadian men 19-29 are showing signs of “problem anger” — the kind that affects work, relationships, and day-to-day life.

💵 The senior discount debate is heating up. With many Canadian seniors wealthier than ever, some are questioning whether it still makes sense for older adults to get special discounts while younger families struggle to keep up with soaring housing and living costs.

Canadians could soon be eating cloned meat — and never know it. Health Canada has quietly removed cloned cattle and swine from its “novel foods” list, meaning products like meat and milk from cloned animals or their offspring no longer require pre-market approval or labeling.

Health Canada has issued a nationwide recall for a laser pointer after testing showed it’s far stronger than allowed. The tactical flashlight and laser — was found to be a Class3B handheld laser, powerful enough to cause permanent eye damage even with brief accidental exposure.

💊 Painkiller shortage in Canada continues — and it’s not ending soon. Pharmacists warn that prescription drugs containing oxycodone, including Percocet, will remain in short supply until 2026 due to ongoing manufacturing disruptions.

Health Canada hit the brakes on its plan to remove labelling for foods from cloned cattle and swine after public backlash. Many Canadians expressed concern about potentially eating cloned beef/pork without knowing, prompting the federal agency to pause the policy indefinitely.

New data from Équité Association shows auto theft remains a billion-dollar problem in Canada — and criminals are shifting tactics to chase higher profits. Toyota RAV4 is now the most stolen vehicle in the country, topping a list dominated by newer-model SUVs and pickup trucks.

🔥 Ontario’s fire season has officially ended — and it was one for the record books. From April 1 to October 31, crews battled 643 wildfires, burning nearly 600,000 hectares across the province. That’s six times more land than last year’s total and far above the 10-year average.

Ontario’s LCBO is seeing its biggest financial decline in a decade — with annual revenue dropping below $2B for the first time since 2015. According to Ontario’s Fall Economic Statement, LCBO’s revenue is projected to hit $1.85B this year, down 15% from $2.17B last year.

🎄 Moonlight Magic Returns to Downtown Sault Ste. Marie! 🌙✨ The holiday season officially kicks off Thursday, November 20 — and you’re invited! Join Mayor Shoemaker at 7 p.m. in front of the courthouse as the community tree lights up the night and launches the festive season.

🏡 The Sault’s housing market is catching a chill. Out of 372 local listings, nearly 50 homes have dropped in price this fall — some by thousands — as properties sit unsold and market momentum slows.

Bill 60 has officially passed, changing how rental disputes move through the LTB. The goal is to speed up decisions and reduce delays. Landlords may see faster processing, while tenants will face tighter timelines and reduced ability to add new evidence late in the process.

Ontario is rolling out a $210 million road safety fund just as the province’s ban on speed cameras officially takes effect. Premier Doug Ford has repeatedly criticized speed cameras as a “cash grab,” despite research showing they reduce speeding and improve safety.