Author: Sophie Mitchell

Evidence for Democracy Examines Growing Role of Artificial Intelligence in Policymaking OTTAWA — A new report from Evidence for Democracy is raising questions about transparency and accountability as artificial intelligence tools become increasingly embedded in Canada’s federal public service. Titled “AI and Democracy: Navigating Trust, Truth, and Technology in Policymaking”, the report provides what the organization describes as the first comprehensive overview of how AI systems are being deployed across federal departments and agencies, and the potential implications for democratic governance. The findings suggest that while AI adoption is accelerating within government operations, oversight and public engagement have not kept…

Regional Winners to Compete at Astoria Pub on March 28 VANCOUVER — Four emerging metal acts from across British Columbia are set to compete in the BC semi-final of the Wacken Metal Battle Canada 2026, as the international band competition advances toward its national stage. The event, presented by The Invisible Orange, will take place March 28 at Astoria Pub in Vancouver. Following a series of regional rounds, four bands—Circle of Titans, Crüzer, Dead After Dark, and Empalement—have secured their spots in the BC semi-final, representing Metro Vancouver, the BC Interior, and Vancouver Island. Metro Vancouver Acts Bring Diverse Metal…

Windsor-Born Talent Gains National Recognition Windsor-raised creator Samora Smallwood has earned four nominations at this year’s Canadian Screen Awards for her debut original television series, Coming Home, marking a significant milestone in her evolving career. The nominations span major categories, including Best Lead Performance, Best Writing, Best Directing, and Best Series—an uncommon achievement for a first-time series creator and a reflection of Smallwood’s multifaceted role in the production. A previous Canadian Screen Award winner for Best Lead Actress in a Movie or Miniseries, Smallwood’s latest recognition reinforces her growing influence in Canada’s film and television industry. A Personal Story with…

Phone-Based Service Aims to Simplify Access to Treatment and Support SURREY — Fraser Health has introduced an expanded pathway for individuals seeking help with substance use, offering same-day access to care through its centralized phone service, Access Central. The initiative is designed to reduce barriers and provide quicker, more coordinated support for adults across the region. Access Central connects callers directly with trained clinicians who can assess needs, offer guidance and facilitate entry into appropriate care programs. The service targets individuals aged 19 and older living within the Fraser Health region, as well as those seeking help for loved ones.…

Province targets barrier-free community spaces with renewed EASE funding The Ontario government has launched a new round of funding aimed at improving accessibility in public spaces, opening applications for $2.25 million in grants designed to support inclusive infrastructure projects across the province. The funding is being distributed through the Enhancing Access to Spaces for Everyone (EASE) Grant, which offers up to $60,000 per project for small-scale capital improvements. The initiative targets municipalities, non-profits and Indigenous governing bodies seeking to make community spaces more accessible for people with disabilities and older adults. “Our government is continuing to make critical investments to…

Provincial and federal partnership aims to deliver up to $130,000 in savings for buyers MISSISSAUGA — March 25, 2026 The Ontario government is proposing a significant expansion of its Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) rebate on new homes, a move it says could lower purchase costs by as much as $130,000 and stimulate housing construction across the province. The measure, to be included in the province’s 2026 Budget, would eliminate the full 13 per cent HST on eligible new homes valued up to $1 million. The maximum rebate would also apply to homes priced up to $1.5 million, before gradually declining…

Teesri Duniya Theatre opens milestone season with Anosh Irani’s Behind the Moon Montreal production examines sacrifice, identity and the elusive promise of a better life Montreal’s Teesri Duniya Theatre is launching its 45th season with a production that places immigrant experiences at the forefront, blending humour, emotional depth and subtle magical elements to explore the meaning of a “better life.” Running from April 3 to April 19 at Rangshala in Cité-des-Hospitalières, Behind the Moon is written by award-winning playwright and novelist Anosh Irani and directed by Chelsea Dab Hilke. The production anchors the company’s “Season of the Migrant,” a thematic…

Viral educator reframes urban weeds as resilient survivors in a human-altered world Joey Santore, the outspoken creator behind the viral educational channel Crime Pays but Botany Doesn’t, is bringing his unconventional take on plant ecology to print with the release of his debut book, Concrete Botany: The Ecology of Plants in the Age of Human Disturbance (Quarto, April 7). Known for his blunt delivery and deep botanical knowledge, Santore has built a global following by challenging conventional ideas about plants—particularly those dismissed as weeds. In his new book, he expands that message, positioning urban and disturbed environments as critical ecosystems…

New children’s book brings personal testimony and historical insight to young readers A forthcoming children’s book aims to bring one of history’s darkest chapters into sharper focus for younger audiences through a deeply personal lens. A Time to Hide by Marion Seidemann Fredman, set for publication in March 2026 by The Collective Book Studio, presents a Holocaust survival story grounded in lived experience, historical documentation, and visual storytelling. Targeted primarily at readers aged 9 to 12, the book is positioned as both an educational resource and a narrative of resilience, with broader appeal for families, educators, and general readers seeking…

Tim Button’s Are You Speedy Targets Growing Market for Interactive Toddler Books A new interactive board book aimed at toddlers and preschoolers is set to hit shelves this spring, offering a blend of playful storytelling and hands-on engagement that reflects a broader trend in early childhood publishing. Are You Speedy (The Collective Book Studio/May 12, 2026), written by Tim Button and illustrated by Ana Larrañaga, introduces young readers to a lively cast of construction vehicles while incorporating tactile and participatory elements designed to enhance early learning. The release adds to an expanding portfolio of interactive board books that publishers are…