Plain Packaging on Tobacco Backfires Within First Year in the UK

 

After Government U-Turned on its Commitment to Wait for Evidence from Australia,
New Research Shows UK Public Consider Plain Packaging Ineffective and a
Poor Use of Resources
 - Concerns it will Lead to an Increase in Illegal Cigarettes

GENEVA, May 17, 2018 /CNW/ - One year on from the controversial introduction of plain packaging for tobacco in the UK, new research commissioned by JTI and conducted by independent polling company Kantar TNS, reveals that the majority of the UK public are not supportive of the policy.

(Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/692561/JT_International_SA_Logo.jpg )

In the largest public opinion poll of its kind since plain packaging was introduced, research found that UK citizens are concerned their government has imported a failed policy from Australia[1] without fully evaluating the potential negative consequences[2] :

  • Almost two-thirds of the UK population believe that plain packaging will not achieve its primary objective of reducing smoking rates (65%) and is a poor use of government resources (65%).
  • Three out of every five UK adults (58%) believe plain packaging will lead to an increase in the number of illegal cigarettes sold in the UK.
  • If the UK Government had yet to decide on plain packaging and was considering whether to introduce it today, 69% of UK adults believe they should either reject the policy (35%) or wait for more evidence of its effectiveness from Australia (34%).
  • 72% of respondents believe the government would either a) fix a policy review / ignore evidence that went against a preferred policy (29%), or b) be reluctant to change their preferred policy if the evidence was weighted against it (43%).

Respondents are also critical of how the Bill became law:

  • 68% think the Government changed the decision-making requirements it had previously set out in order to push it through.
  • 72% think it was important for the government to research the links between illegal tobacco and terrorist organizations.

One year in, the latest data shows no impact on tobacco sales or smoking rates in the UK[3] and counterfeit plain packs were discovered on the high street as early as one month after the implementation of plain packaging.[4] An analysis conducted by JTI on UK counterfeit samples shows that tar, nicotine and carbon monoxide levels far exceed those allowed in the country. But this is only the tip of the iceberg: in some cases, counterfeits have been found to contain heavy metals such as arsenic, cadmium and lead[5], along with other toxic contaminants: asbestos, mold, dust, dead flies, rat droppings - and even human excrement.[6]

"Plain packaging is failing in the UK, as it has in Australia and France[7], and as we always warned that it would," states Jonathan Duce, Head of External Communications at JTI's global headquarters in Geneva. "Rather than wait for results to emerge from Australia - as originally committed to by Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt - the government pushed through a policy without waiting for hard evidence or research into the consequences. Plain packaging should never have been introduced in the UK, and other governments considering the measure should think twice before importing this failed experiment."

References

  1. In Australia, which pioneered plain packaging in December 2012, latest Government data shows that the long-term decline in smoking rates has now stalled: https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/illicit-use-of-drugs/ndshs-2016-key-findings/contents/highlights-from-the-2016-survey
  2. After Australia implemented plain packaging, illegal tobacco sales went up by 30%. The overall illegal market is now at 15% - the country's highest level on record: See "Illicit Tobacco in Australia: 2017 Full Year Report", KPMG, April 2018: https://assets.kpmg.com/content/dam/kpmg/uk/pdf/2018/05/australia_illicit_tobacco_report_2017.pdf .
  3. The scale of illegal tobacco in Australia - and related criminal activity - has forced the government to set up a multi-agency 'Tobacco TaskForce': https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/government-butt-squad-to-chase-billions-in-criminal-tobacco-fraud-20180505-p4zdiv.html
  4. "TPD2 and standardized tobacco packaging - What impacts have they had so far?", Europe Economics, May 2018:  http://www.europe-economics.com/publications/15/publications.htm - Data on smoking rates for England, considered as representative for the UK.
  5. "EXCLUSIVE: First Fake Plain Packs Discovered, Rogue Retailers Making 'Small Fortune' ", BetterRetailing.com, November 10, 2017: https://www.betterretailing.com/first-fake-plain-packs-discovered .
  6. https://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/sniffer-dogs-with-gopro-bodycams-help-find-30000-fake-cigarettes-in-soho-a3547241.html
  7. https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/illegal-tobacco-tainted-by-asbestos-and-rats-s2fpnsx26
  8. In France, the second country to implement plain packaging four months before the UK, Minister of Health Agnès Buzyn admitted that plain packaging doesn't stop people from smoking and that she was against it from the outset: http://www.assemblee-nationale.fr/15/cri/2017-2018/20180075.asp#P1117763 [http://www.assemblee-nationale.fr/15/cri/2017-2018/20180075.asp]

Data published by the French Observatory for Drugs and Addiction shows that one full year after the implementation of the policy, tobacco products shipped to retailers (cigarettes and RYO/MYO) were broadly stable in France, with only a slight evolution of -0.7% in volume, following a 1.3% increase in sales during the first half of the year: https://www.ofdt.fr/ofdt/fr/tt171225.pdf

Note to editors

Methodology:

2,464 interviews were conducted online among adults living in Great Britain between 12th to 19th April 2018. Interviews were conducted using the Kantar TNS Research Express, which uses the Lightspeed access panel as its sample source.

About Research Express

Research Express provides quick, reliable market research. Our scale and advanced operational capabilities saves our clients both time and money. Research Express is part of Kantar TNS.

About Kantar TNS

Kantar TNS is one of the world's largest research agencies with experts in over 90 countries. With expertise in innovation, brand and communication, shopper activation and customer experience, we help our clients identify, optimise and activate the moments that matter to drive growth for their business. We are part of Kantar, one of the world's leading data, insight and consultancy companies. Find out more at http://www.tnsglobal.com.

About JTI

JTI is a leading international tobacco company with operations in more than 130 countries. It is the global owner of both Winston, the number two cigarette brand in the world, and Camel outside the USA and has the largest share in sales for both brands. Other global brands include Mevius and LD. With its internationally recognized brand Logic, JTI is also a major player in the e-cigarette market and has, since 2011, been present in the heated tobacco category with Ploom. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the company employs close to 40,000 people and was awarded Global Top Employer for four consecutive years. JTI is a member of the Japan Tobacco Group of Companies. For more information, visit http://www.jti.com.

Full report available here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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6 Amazing Healthy Father’s Day Activity Breaks for Dad

Up the ante this Father’s Day and treat the world’s greatest Dad to a healthy activity break with Health and Fitness Travel, the wellness holiday specialists. There’s nothing quite like bonding in the great outdoors with a range of active holidays from tennis in Portugal and golf in Cyprus to a yoga retreat in Turkey and a fitness sports break in Tenerife. Choose a tailor-made health and fitness holiday designed around his favourite pastimes and give your father a fun filled break, to make this the best Father’s Day.

 

 

 

For the Sporty Dad - Tenerife: Baobab Suites Swimming or Running

Gift your dad with sports galore on this dynamic health and fitness break, located in the inspiring Playa del Duque in Tenerife South. Choose or combine fitness activities and allow Dad to discover noticeable results that are achieved from these two disciplines. Strengthen and tone with personalised sessions to boost his fitness from his preferred sports area. Nourish his post-workout appetite with a daily smoothie and delicious meal from the Fuel RestoBar that caters to all wellness needs. Repair Dad’s body for another full day of fitness fun with a relaxing deep tissue, sports or therapeutic massage.

Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 5 nights at Baobab Suites from £980pp or £1,440 for single occupancy. Price includes accommodation, breakfast, a swimming or running programme, return flights and transfers.

 

For the Workout Dad - Portugal: Longevity Cegonha Country Club Bootcamp

 

Enjoy some father-child bonding with a pre-summer shape up on an energising Bootcamp holiday, set in the sunny Algarve. From pulse-raising circuit training to testing TRX camps, this comprehensive 6-day fitness retreat is ideal for fitness focused fathers. Healthy, cleansing meals will complement the rigorous training schedule, whilst detox and weight loss treatments will boost results. With Osteopathy and massages aimed at soothing well-worked muscles, gift your dad with spa treatments suitable for a king, for a Father’s Day to remember. Enjoy hours a day of structured workouts, guidance from nutritionists and informative wellness workshops for Dad-bod confidence.

 

Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Longevity Cegonha Country Club from £2,065pp or £2,500 for single occupancy. Price includes accommodation, full board, a Bootcamp programme, return flights and transfers.

 

For the Tennis Pro Dad - Portugal: Pine Cliffs Annabel Croft Tennis

Get your Dad to ace his game and his health on this dynamic tennis holiday at Pine Cliffs, set in a prime seafront location on the amazing coastline of the Algarve. This low-impact sport can help to increase aerobic fitness levels, speed up metabolism and improve coordination; this tennis holiday will keep Dad on his toes. Together with daily private tennis lessons, optional group tennis clinics are an opportunity to further practice technique whilst socialising with others. This active break offers the perfect combination of sport and spa for Dads who deserve some downtime.

Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Pine Cliffs from £1,645pp or £2,355 for single occupancy. Price includes accommodation, daily breakfast, a tennis programme, return flights and transfers.

 

For the Golfing Dad - Cyprus: Aphrodite Hills Golf

Home to a magnificent 18-hole golf course, treat your dad to a luxury wellness getaway at Aphrodite Hills. Set overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, Aphrodite Hills is an expansive resort also boasting state-of-the-art sporting facilities and opulent accommodation. Whether your Dad wants to work on his backswing or you just want an excuse to treat him, enjoy a memorable golf break with private lessons and 4 complimentary rounds on the visually spectacular green. Complete your unspoilt experience with calming massages at the Retreat spa, surrounded by fragrant courtyards for the ultimate relaxation.

Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Aphrodite Hills from £1,945pp or £2,435 for single occupancy. Price includes accommodation, daily breakfast, a golf programme, return flights and transfers.

 

For the Yogi Dad - Turkey: Six Senses Kaplankaya Yoga Getaway

With the philosophy that harmony is the key to inner happiness, rebalance a healthier and happier Dad at this luxury yoga retreat, surrounded by panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. Counteract the stresses of your Dad’s hectic lifestyle through this healing practice, offering educational workshops that will inspire him to continue practicing yoga once he returns home. Experience the power of peaceful settings through sunrise, sunset yoga and meditation that will leave him feeling utterly relaxed. Discover the quaint Mediterranean village surrounding the resort through daily hikes and coastal walks, for a satisfying wellness experience your Father will never forget.

Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Six Senses Kaplankaya from £3,540pp or £5,200 for single occupancy. Price includes accommodation, breakfast, a yoga programme, return flights and transfers.

 

For the Fitness-Focused Dad - Italy: Borgo Egnazia Fitness

Explore the breath-taking town of Puglia and experience effective fitness workouts within the incomparable Mediterranean atmosphere surrounding Borgo Egnazia. Enjoy morning outdoor workout’s as the sun rises over the glistening Adriatic Sea and seek professional advice from qualified personal trainers to achieve your fitness goals faster. Round off your day with alternative afternoon well-being activities including music therapy, dance and Iyengar yoga. Let Dad unwind and de-stress with a soul-nourishing session in the candle-lit Roman Bath and bio sauna. Discover the beauty of Puglia on a local bike ride and let Dad return home with the holistic secret to life longevity.

Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Borgo Egnazia from £3,820pp or £5,975 for single occupancy. Price includes accommodation, breakfast, a fitness programme, return flights and transfers.

 

For advice, guidance and booking visit www.healthandfitnesstravel.com or call 0203 397 8891

 

 

Half of Canadians have experienced a mental health issue

Millennials most likely to report anxiety and depression

TORONTO, May 16, 2018 /CNW/ - Whether or not you have experienced it first-hand, mental illness has touched someone you know. It's an invisible illness that impacts the lives of half (49%) of all Canadians. More than one-third (37%) have suffered from anxiety; and 3 out of 10 (30%) report having dealt with depression. These numbers are part of Sun Life Financial's recent national survey that asked Canadians about their experiences with mental health.

From work-related stress to living with schizophrenia, mental illness crosses all boundaries and touches people at every stage of life. Millennials, ages 20 to 34, are most likely to report mental health concerns (63%), followed by Generation X (50%) and Late Boomers (41%).

"The numbers speak for themselves – many Canadians say they have experienced a mental health issue in their life. To get at the heart of the issue, we need to open the lines of safe communication and work together to remove barriers," said Jacques Goulet, President, Sun Life Financial Canada. "Connect with your personal support network, speak with your family physician, or tap into your workplace mental health benefits – these are some of the ways to find help that's right for you."

Mental Health at Work
According to the survey, only 28% of working Canadians living with a mental health issue have spoken to their employer about it – a sharp drop from the 56% of Canadians who have had a conversation about a serious physical issue with their employer.

"It's clear that social stigma still surrounds mental health across Canada," said Dave Jones, Senior Vice-President, Group Benefits, Sun Life Financial. "People spend a big part of their day at work; they simply can't put aside their mental health issues while they are on the job. Employers have the opportunity to make a difference on this national issue. Creating a safe and supportive environment and offering tools and resources that support mental health and well-being can help employees overcome these challenges."

Getting Help
Despite how common mental illnesses are amongst Canadians, some continue to suffer in silence. One-quarter (27%) did not speak to a health professional about what they were going through. Millennials (33%) were least likely to talk to a health professional, followed by Generation X (27%) and pre-boomers (23%).

"We're socialized to view mental illnesses differently than physical illnesses," said Dr. Sam Mikail, Clinical Psychologist, Sun Life Financial. "Many people struggle to describe what they are experiencing when faced with a mental health issue. It's easier to talk about a sore back than what's on your mind. Know that you're not alone and don't be afraid to ask for help; speaking with your primary care physician or healthcare professional is a good first step."

Whether you're seeking treatment from a clinical psychologist or simply leaning on your best friend for emotional support, Dr. Mikail recommends a few tips that have been proven to help tackle mental health troubles:

  1. Invest in time with your loved ones and people you enjoy being around.
  2. Exercise and focus on a healthy diet. Feeling physically healthy can promote a healthy mind.
  3. Learn more about your workplace's employee assistance program and mental health support tools.
  4. Ask for help when you need it. Your primary care physician can help with what you're going through and find a treatment that suits your needs.

Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is a member of the Sun Life Financial group of companies.

About the survey
The Sun Life Financial Barometer is based on findings of an Ipsos poll conducted between October 13 and October 19, 2017. A sample of 2,900 Canadians was drawn from the Ipsos I-Say online panel: 2,900 Canadians from 20 to 80 years of age. The data for Canadians surveyed was weighted to ensure the sample's regional, age, and gender composition reflects that of the actual Canadian population.

The precision of Ipsos online poll is measured using a credibility interval. In this case, the poll is accurate to within +/- 2.1% at 95% confidence level had all Canadian adults been polled. All sample surveys and polls may be subject to other sources of error, including, but not limited to methodological change, coverage error and measurement error.

About Sun Life Financial
Sun Life Financial Inc. is a leading international financial services organization providing insurance, wealth and asset management solutions to individual and corporate Clients. Sun Life Financial has operations in a number of markets worldwide, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and Bermuda. As of March 31, 2018, Sun Life Financial had total assets under management of $979 billion. For more information please visit www.sunlife.com.

Sun Life Financial Inc. trades on the Toronto (TSX), New York (NYSE) and Philippine (PSE) stock exchanges under the ticker symbol SLF.

 

Canadians living with diabetes can now access a new resource to help better manage their disease

 

LAVAL, QC, May 16, 2018 /CNW/ - Sanofi and Sun Life Financial are pleased to announce a new program that provides Canadians living with diabetes access to health information related to the use of Sanofi's Toujeo insulin pen. This new digital initiative provides select Sun Life clients with tailored information and relevant educational tips for using their insulin injection pen. The program launched in March 2018.

A Tailored Approach Putting the Patient First
Canadians living with diabetes require varying levels of education, access to resources, and support depending on their personal situation or the stage of their diabetes. This is why a tailored approach can be the best way for a person to obtain the information, support and tools needed to optimally manage their disease.

"In a digitally driven world, innovation closely connects to client satisfaction," said Chris Denys, Senior Vice-President of Possibilities, Sun Life Financial Canada. "We have been on a digital innovation journey for several years and as we continue to find new ways to deliver on our Purpose of helping our clients achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives, we are committed to the fight against diabetes. Every year, we see the growing health impact of diabetes, with one in three Canadians affected by diabetes or prediabetes1 and 422 million persons believed to have diabetes around the world2."

"Sanofi Canada's 100 year history began with the development of large-scale insulin production methods under Connaught Labs, now known as Sanofi Pasteur, and we are proud of our ongoing commitment to finding new and better solutions to helping those living with diabetes," claimed Niven Al-Khoury, President, Sanofi Canada. "We are excited to team up with Sun Life Financial in the important mission to provide education and raise greater awareness about this disease, with the goal of one day getting diabetes under control for all Canadians."

 

1Diabetes Canada, Diabetes statistics in Canada, 2015
2World Health Organization, Diabetes fact sheet, 2017

 

About Raise Your Hand for Diabetes
Raise Your Hand for Diabetes is a community-based initiative led by Sanofi in collaboration with Diabetes Canada and Diabetes Quebec, that leverages patient and caregiver stories to create a community in which people living with diabetes play a direct role in dispelling the myths and stigma surrounding the disease. By visiting the web site www.raiseyourhandfordiabetes.ca, Canadians can upload a video, picture or quote about what matters most on their personal diabetes journey. Raise Your Hand for Diabetes also provides a wealth of resources on diabetes management, including topics like diet, physical exercise and treatment.

About Diabetes
Today, there are 11 million Canadians living with diabetes or prediabetes. Every three minutes, another Canadian is diagnosed. Having high blood sugar can cause diabetes-related complications, like chronic kidney disease, foot problems, non-traumatic lower limb (leg, foot, toe, etc.) amputation, eye disease (retinopathy) that can lead to blindness, heart attack, stroke, anxiety, nerve damage, and erectile dysfunction (men). Diabetes-related complications can be very serious and even life-threatening. Properly managing blood sugar levels reduces the risk of developing these complications.1

About Sanofi
Sanofi is dedicated to supporting people through their health challenges. We are a global biopharmaceutical company focused on human health. We prevent illness with vaccines, provide innovative treatments to fight pain and ease suffering. We stand by the few who suffer from rare diseases and the millions with long-term chronic conditions.

With more than 100,000 people in 100 countries, Sanofi is transforming scientific innovation into healthcare solutions around the globe.

Sanofi entities in Canada employ close to 1,900 people. In 2016 we invested $130 million in R&D in Canada, creating jobs, business and opportunity throughout the country.

Follow us on Twitter @SanofiCanada and on YouTube.

Sanofi, Empowering Life

Beleave Approved to Provide Medical Cannabis to Patients with Qualified Insurance Coverage from Medavie Blue Cross

 

TORONTO, May 16, 2018 /CNW/ - Beleave Inc. (CSE: BE; OTCQX: BLEVF) ("Beleave" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that its wholly owned subsidiary Beleave Kannabis Corp. has received its approval and provider number to service those who have qualified for cannabis coverage through Medavie Blue Cross including the Canadian veteran community.  With over 1,000,000 card holders Medavie Blue Cross is one of Canada's leading Blue Cross plans and although each card holder's benefits may differ, cannabis coverage is available to patients approved by Blue Cross.

Medavie Blue Cross administers to various government sponsored health programs on behalf of the provincial and federal governments which include Veterans Affairs Canada, an important segment of Beleave's patient acquisition strategy.

"We aim to help provide ease of access to those with Blue Cross coverage allowing patients to cut a multitude of steps typically needed to make a claim," commented Beleave CEO Andrew Wnek. "Our team is ready to accept new patients and are confident in our ability to provide the highest quality service to all patients including our country's respected servicemen and women."

The Company's Medi Green Clinic network plans to host multiple location information sessions for veterans on an ongoing basis.  These initiatives will be rolled out by the Company's growing Veteran Affairs and Community outreach division.  To stay informed please join the company mailing list at www.beleave.com.

About Medavie Blue Cross
Medavie is a non-profit Canadian Medical care insurance company headquartered in Moncton, New Brunswick.  The Company was named one of Canada's Top 100 Employers by Maclean's magazine and is the only non-profit medical insurance organization in Canada to receive this honour.

About Beleave
Beleave Inc. is a biotech company and Beleave's wholly-owned subsidiary Beleave Kannabis Corp. (formerly First Access Medical Inc.) is a licensed producer pursuant to the ACMPR. Beleave's purpose-built facility is located in Hamilton, Ontario.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law ("forward-looking statements"). The use of any of the words "plan", "anticipate", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "may", "will", "project", "should", "believe" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur are intended to identify forward-looking information. These statements are only predictions. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which the forward-looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking information addresses future events and conditions, by its very nature it involves inherent risks and uncertainties. This information speak only as of the date of this news release. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks including various risk factors discussed in the Company's disclosure documents, which can be found under the Company's profile on www.sedar.com.

SOURCE Beleave Inc.

4 Workout Regimens that Teach Your Body and Mind Discipline

Though most people think of exercise only in physical terms, working out can also be an excellent way to improve your mind. The right workout regimen can improve your mental focus while at the same time conditioning your body. Here are four of the top workouts you should try if you want to improve your mental and physical health at the same time.

Weightlifting

Weightlifting may not seem like a very cerebral activity, but maintaining maximum intensity through a heavy lifting workout requires consistent focus. Lackadaisically going through a weightlifting routine won’t get you the best workout. Instead, you’ll need to focus on every repetition and put in the maximum possible effort. Via this act of carefully concentrating on your workout, your mind will also gradually improve.

Yoga

Because of the focus and connection it requires between mind and body, yoga is an excellent exercise for the brain. Unlike many exercises, yoga is specifically intended to be good for the mind, as well as the body. Through a regular practice of yogic positions, you can condition your body, reduce your stress levels and improve your focus. If you want to take up yoga, consider looking for yoga classesin your local area, as you’ll need an experienced instructor.

Hiking

Though it doesn’t require any special levels of concentration, hiking is a good way to improve your mind. Being outdoors has been shown to have positive effects on both short-term memort and cognitive abilities, and is also an excellent way to relieve stress. Hiking is a great way to get out into nature for a few hours and get an excellent full-body workout in the process.

Martial Arts

Owing to the requirement of intense concentration at all times, practicing martial arts is one of the best ways to discipline your mind and teach yourself to be more focused. A regular practice of martial arts can tone and condition your entire body, since it involves using every muscle group. Studying the martial arts is also eminently practical, since it will teach you to defend yourself if you are ever threatened physically.

By following any of these exercise routines, you can improve your overall physical fitness while reaping considerable mental benefits. For variety, you can even choose to engage in multiple types of exercise throughout the week. By combining different forms of exercise, you can keep your routine fresh and interesting while also keeping yourself from reaching a fitness plateau.

Original gifts for Dad this Father’s Day
Because he’s not a regular dad, he’s a cool dad

Forget about asking dad what he wants this year, because chances are he’ll give you his standard “I don’t need anything” spiel. Lucky for you, we’ve scoured Etsy far and wide to find unique gifts for dad that he didn’t even know he wanted but is guaranteed to love. Scroll through to find our curated picks for every dad out there.


Shop New Dad Gifts (L to R): Custom Family Portrait by Art of Melodious, $280. You Are the Father Ribbon by Boldfaced, $6. Dad Bod Card by rhubarb paper co, $6. Hot Doggin’ Camp Mug by WKNDRS FOR LIFE, $25.

Whether he’s got one on the way or he’s still adjusting to the throes of parenthood, give him a little something to remind him why midnight diaper changes aren’t so bad after all. Commission him a custom personalized family portrait featuring the family’s newest addition – with over 34,000 personalized options on Etsy, you’re sure to find a style he’ll love. Make him laugh with a cheeky sentiment, and help keep the coffee flowing with an enamel mug that wandering little hands can’t break for a Father’s Day any new dad will appreciate.


Shop Foodie Dad Gifts (L to R): Cocktail Tonic Set by 34 oz tonic maison, $68. Ramen Chocolate Bar by Alicja Confections, $9. The Only One BBQ Sauce by Spice of Life TO, $9. Rarest of Them All Card by gotamago, $6.

Even if your dad’s culinary skills are more Chef Boyardee than Gordon Ramsay, we all know the way to his heart is through his stomach. For specialty sauces and out-there flavours that he certainly won’t find in the grocery store (hello, ramen chocolate bar!), look no further than Etsy for over 89,000 food and drink options. Whether your pops is a mixologist in the making, a grill master, or just appreciates an artisanal snack while watching Netflix, we’ve got you covered.


Shop Well-Groomed Dad Gifts (L to R): Shoes and Integrity Card by 417 Press, $6. Sandalwood + Witch Hazel Aftershave by ad floreo, $20. Leather Bowtie by Fitzy Design, $52. Personalized Leather Toiletry Kit by Divina Denuevo, $500.

From early morning hockey practices to school drop-offs, we’re guessing dad’s morning routine consists of a splash of water and not much else. Help dad carve out some morning me-time and streamline his grooming process with a custom luxe aftershave and a monogrammed toiletry kit fit for every day, business trips, and beyond. Bonus: skip the gift box and top it off with a handmade leather bowtie instead for a thoughtful, personalized gift the big guy deserves.

For more inspired and creative gift ideas, visit Etsy.com.

About Etsy:
Etsy, Inc. (Nasdaq: ETSY) is the global marketplace for unique and creative goods. Our mission is to keep commerce human, and we're committed to using the power of business to strengthen communities and empower people. We connect millions of buyers and sellers from nearly every country in the world. Buyers come to Etsy to be inspired and delighted by items that are crafted and curated by creative entrepreneurs. For sellers, we offer a range of tools and services that address key business needs.

Etsy was founded in 2005 and is headquartered in Brooklyn, New York.

Website: Etsy.com
Twitter: @EtsyCA
Facebook: EtsyCA
Instagram: @EtsyCA
Hashtag: #EtsyCA

CNW Group Ltd

Digital Care for Substance Use Disorder Now Available to Ontario Healthcare Providers

Healthcare providers across Ontario can now incorporate digital support for substance use disorder into their programs affordably and efficiently.

TORONTO, May 15, 2018 /CNW/ - Wagon Health Solutions, in partnership with the Edgewood Health Network, is proud to announce that we have been qualified to Vendor of Record (VOR) status with the Ontario Telemedicine Network (OTN) on behalf of itself and the following participants:

  • Erie St. Clair LHIN
  • South West LHIN
  • Waterloo Wellington LHIN
  • Hamilton Niagara Haldimand Brant LHIN
  • Central West LHIN
  • Mississauga Halton LHIN
  • Toronto Central LHIN
  • Central LHIN
  • Central East LHIN
  • South East LHIN
  • Champlain LHIN
  • North Simcoe Muskoka LHIN
  • North East LHIN
  • North West LHIN
  • Health and community care providers within the above LHINs
  • Canada Health Infoway

The VOR agreement and qualification supports the strategy of the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term-Care to improve access and support to those suffering from mental health and substance use disorders. The VOR - which can be accessed through OTN's Innovation Centre at https://otn.ca/innovationcentre/substance-use-disorder/ - will enable healthcare providers to acquire and deploy virtual care solution more efficiently and cost effectively.

"What Wagon brings to the table as one of three newly qualified vendors on the VOR is the ability to provide support to help individuals with addiction challenges reduce or eliminate addiction behaviours and the associated risks," says Dr. Ed Brown, CEO, OTN. "This qualification supports OTN's commitment to integrate technology into models of care to increase access to services and engage people in managing their substance use disorder challenges."

Wagon was qualified by OTN for meeting the criteria for the following desired outcomes: patient experience, benefits to the system, improved access to care and improved function and quality of life. We are very proud to be a Vendor of Record, and look forward to working with the LHINs to support those with substance use disorders.

Rochelle Hildebrand, Co-Founder of Wagon says, "Wagon was developed for clinicians by clinicians. We are very proud of the product and have seen significant improvements in our patients and in relapse prevention. Our clinicians report a strengthened therapeutic alliance and an efficient approach to case management."

Wagon is Canada's first clinical care app for addiction that allows health care providers to monitor and connect with patients digitally. Patients have a personalized recovery plan, a daily inventory, coping strategies, journals and more. Clinicians monitor their progress and tailor their care to meet the needs of each patient. Patients can use Wagon remotely, for post-treatment support or in combination with an outpatient program. Early outcomes show that 86% of patients felt Wagon helped them follow a recovery plan and 73% would recommend Wagon to others who are struggling with a substance use disorder. For more information on Wagon and more outcomes, visit onthewagon.ca

SOURCE Wagon

Justice for Family Devastated by Asbestos

A well-deserved settlement brings justice and security to a Chicago family grieving after an asbestos-caused loss.

Chicago, IL (May 15, 2018) —

For the Nelson family, justice came in the form of a much-deserved settlement with numerous manufacturers of asbestos products. Roger Nelson, a United States Army veteran, was diagnosed with mesothelioma at 80-years-old, decades after a career in residential heating throughout Wisconsin and northern Chicago. Tragically, he passed away six months later, but his family continued the fight for justice.

Through his line of work, Nelson was exposed to dangerous asbestos dust in insulation, cement, gaskets, and more. This dust would have been easily inhaled if it was disturbed during repairs or installation. As he worked homes and basements around Wisconsin and Illinois, he was at risk of inhaling deadly asbestos particles which could then develop into mesothelioma.

Asbestos inhalation is the only known cause of mesothelioma, making it a major health concern for electricians, construction workers, and insulators, among others. Vogelzang Law represented Nelson against several manufacturers of these dangerous asbestos products; the settlement will fuel a larger social change regarding asbestos safety.

In court, attorneys Nicholas Vogelzang, Michael Maienza, and Charles Valles successfully settled Nelson’s case by pressuring multiple defendants. The settlement came after two days of pretrial motions with the judge.

The April settlement offers security to a grieving family in difficult times. Nelson is survived by three children and his longtime partner, Carol. Their victory in court holds corporations responsible for the harm they caused when they chose to use asbestos materials. Thanks to their determination to find justice and the hard work of the Vogelzang Law team, this settlement will provide for the Nelson family’s well-being for years to come.

About Vogelzang Law

Vogelzang Law is a boutique asbestos litigation law firm representing victims of mesothelioma. Backed by Lead Counsel Nicholas Vogelzang’s nearly 20 years of asbestos law experience, we have the knowledge and resources required to pursue complicated cases with compassion and wholehearted advocacy.