A new global study shows Canada provides the best sick leave pay in North and Central America. According to Moorepay’s 2025 Global Sick Leave Report, Canadian workers are entitled to about $697 in mandatory sick pay for a week off — far more than neighbouring countries.

Sault Ste. Marie Public Library is once again opening its annual Giving Tree — a community program that offers free winter gear to anyone who needs it. Both the Centennial Library and North Branch have trees stocked with hats, mittens, scarves, and other warm accessories.

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.

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.

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,”.

A new Fraser Institute study shows just how unmanageable homeownership has become across Ontario. From 2014-2023, mortgage payments ballooned so much that all 14 major Ontario cities now require more than half the median after-tax income just to cover a typical monthly mortgage.

Canada has issued a new alert for anyone planning to visit northern Italy ahead of the Milan Cortina 2026 Olympic/Paralympic Winter Games. Officials say travellers should expect heavier security, large crowds, and major disruptions to transportation across several regions.

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 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.

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.

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.

🎅 Heads Up, Sault Ste. Marie! Parade Road Closures Tonight 🎄 The Rotary Santa Claus Parade is rolling through downtown, and Sault Police have announced several temporary road closures to keep everyone safe during the festivities. Full details from 👉 https://t.co/chibE7djqp

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.

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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

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🎄 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.

🚗 Used car prices in Canada are showing signs of easing — but they’re still higher than a year ago. According to Canadian Black Book, the average used vehicle listing price was $37,260 in early November, down from $37,650 last month and $38,200 in June.

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.

🏅 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.