Steve Nease cartoon, Feb. 5, 2025

Premier Doug Ford is considering reforms to Ontario's alcohol retail laws, potentially allowing supermarket chains to sell private-label wine and beer, similar to Costco's Kirkland Signature brand. Major retailers are advocating for the province to lift its current ban on grocery stores offering their own-branded alcohol products. Need More Context? 🔎

A new clinic in Montreal is dedicated to addressing the healthcare needs of Indigenous patients and building trust in the system, marking progress on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's calls to action. The initiative aims to close existing care gaps and support those affected by historical mistrust in healthcare services. Need More Context? 🔎

As Dr. Theresa Tam retires as Canada’s chief public health officer, she emphasizes the urgent need for a national vaccine registry to better manage health crises, particularly in light of the current resurgence of measles. Her remarks come alongside new studies indicating the effectiveness of the initial COVID-19 vaccine dose. Need More Context? 🔎

Yawning, an involuntary behavior that is both mechanical and psychological, is notably contagious and observed across various species, including chimpanzees. Recent research published in Nature Scientific Reports demonstrates that chimpanzees can catch yawns from an android model, suggesting that yawning serves as a social cue for rest and is linked to empathy, unlike other behaviors that don't elicit similar responses. Need More Context? 🔎

Natasha Hausdorff, a British barrister and expert in international law, warns that media disinformation is distorting perceptions of the Gaza conflict and jeopardizing Jewish safety. She advocates for the legal principle of uti possidetis juris to assert Israel's territorial claims and criticizes media bias that amplifies Hamas propaganda while ignoring nuanced accounts from Israeli sources. Need More Context? 🔎

Cameron Davies, leader of the Republican Party of Alberta and candidate in the Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills byelection, acknowledges that his party's name and branding are causing confusion among voters. The party, which aims to establish Alberta as an independent republic, is gaining traction amid rising support for separatism, with Davies hoping to secure around 20% of the vote, a figure reminiscent of the early success of the Wildrose party. Need More Context? 🔎