Pope Francis appeals for courage to better the world on Christmas Eve

Arthur Arnold, former music director of the Moscow Symphony Orchestra, resigned following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. He is now focusing on fostering arts and culture in Powell River, B.C., a community aiming to revitalize its identity after the decline of its paper-mill industry. Need More Context? 🔎

Organizations across Canada are facing challenges this year, as sponsors and donors show reduced enthusiasm, prompting event organizers to find a balance between expanding their audience and maintaining their commitment to 2SLGBTQ+ rights activism. This situation has heightened the need for thoughtful approaches to ensure both participation and advocacy in events like Toronto's Pride Parade. Need More Context? 🔎

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? 🔎