CBC

Vaping Ban and Hiking Trails: Canada’s Quirkiest News This Week!

The feds are kicking vape flavours to the curb while local historians are winning awards! Plus, who’s hiking and who’s running for office?

In a move that’s set to shake up the vaping landscape, the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions has announced a nationwide ban on most vape flavours in Canada. This decision comes more than three years after Ottawa first hinted at restrictions, aiming to tackle the rising numbers of young vapers and ensure better health outcomes across the nation. It seems that candy-flavored cloud puffs may soon become a relic of the past, which may leave some Canadians yearning for a little nostalgia—after all, who doesn’t remember sneaking that grape soda flavor in their youth?

Meanwhile, in the Ottawa Centre, the local political scene is heating up as candidates gear up for the provincial elections. Taking a break from the complexities of vaping regulations, residents are invited to test their local knowledge with the CBC Ottawa News Quiz. From uncovering the latest candidate seeking the NDP nomination to discovering that beloved hiking trail that may—or may not—be riddled with mysterious creatures, Ottawa is buzzing with trivia that’s as quirky as it is informative!

In another interesting local tidbit, a book celebrating the historic architecture of New Hamburg has recently won a prestigious provincial award. "The Historic Buildings of New Hamburg And The People Who Lived In Them" captures not only the bricks and mortar of the town but also the vibrant tales of its past residents. Local historians put their hearts into this project, proving that while some might be losing their flavor, history continues to have a rich, multi-layered taste that appeals to many.

To cap it off, educational technology is also making waves in Canada, as Carnegie Learning opens its doors to schools. With an emphasis on AI-driven technologies, the company is intent on equipping teachers and students alike with innovative tools to enhance the learning experience. It’s a bright new world where algebra problems can be tackled by intelligent software—just imagine if it could also do your laundry!

Here's a fun fact: Did you know that the first artificial intelligence-driven learning program was created back in the 1960s? Fast forward to today, and we’ve come a long way—now AI is not only teaching our kids but assisting them in daily tasks! And while vaping may be losing its fruity flavors, the desire for flavored memories remains intoxicating for some, proving that change, much like a hiking adventure, often leads to new paths and discoveries.