Leeway from Lloyd: Online news ban threatens freedom

or otherwise repurpose on their platforms.

Meta, which owns platforms like Facebook and Instagram, has announced it has ended news availability in Canada over the federal Online News Act.

By doing so, they are acting as news censors and wannabe freeloaders while seriously hindering a free and independent press, which is fundamental to democracy.

The Online News Act, or Bill C-18, is a law that requires tech companies like Google and Meta to pay media outlets for news content they share

The decision to block news content on digital platforms also points out the danger of news publishers switching all content from print journalism to digital.

Ironically, a lot of newspapers did that because they were losing ad revenue with traditional print and thought the solution could be found on digital.

The news blockage means digital news outlets can’t market themselves on Meta etc., which will lead to a further loss of revenue and visibility on social media.

Fortunately, the Meridian Source didn’t

Back-to-school swap and shop

jump down the digital rabbit hole head first, so local readers and advertisers can access all the local content for free without any disruption.

We have a digital news site as well that is independent of social media giants like Meta.

C-18 is still a bummer since we can only cross promote on Twitter, but having a physi - cal newspaper in hand is worth two in a digital bush, so to speak, and Meta can’t block our paper content.

CBC/Radio-Canada has joined other news publishers and broadcasters in requesting Canada’s Competition Bureau investigate Meta’s decision to block news content on its digital platforms in Canada, describing the social media giant’s decision as “anticompetitive.”

Meta and Google, say it’s unfair, unworkable and amounts to a tax on links, with no recognition of the traffic or “free marketing” the tech companies provide to news publishers.

Since Google and Facebook earn 80 per cent of all digi - tal ad revenue in Canada, they need to pay a share for news content that helps them generate that revenue.

Let’s hope the competition bureau forces these tech giants to change their tune. Since this is mostly about money and freedom of the press, a huge daily fine might have the desired effect.

A baby bottle today could lead to problems tomorrow

When a child cries, it’s natural to want to comfort the child and stop their crying. Some parents try to soothe their children by giving them a bottle or a pacifier dipped in a sweet liquid. The child may stop crying; however, this practice often leads to future dental problems.

Children can develop a dental problem called baby bottle tooth decay. This is caused by sugar (carbohydrates) in the liquids in bottles clinging to the teeth for long periods, while bacteria in the mouth uses this sugar to attack the teeth.

The first signs of decay may be dull, white spots or lines on the teeth. Even though the baby teeth will be replaced by permanent ones, it is important to look after the baby teeth to ensure healthy gums and teeth, and proper positioning of the

Southridge Community Church, located at 5701-41 Street, is hosting a Back To School Swap & Shop on Aug. 24 from 2:30-6:30 p.m. There will also be games and activities.

Come with your school supply lists and get the supplies and clothing you need for free! permanent teeth. Healthy baby teeth are also very important for nutrition and proper speech development.

Attendees also have to option to bring any gently used/unused clothing or school supplies to share or swap.

To prevent baby bottle tooth decay, never allow the child to fall asleep with a bottle or sippy-cup containing milk, formula, juice, or anything other than water. After feedings, wipe the baby’s gums with a clean damp cloth or gauze pad. Parents should start brushing a child’s teeth as soon as the first D. M. D. tooth appears. Parents are encouraged to wean their children by their first birthday and start offering the child a cup.

If you suspect your child may have baby bottle tooth decay, see your dentist right away. If you have concerns about your child’s teeth or need advice on preventing a baby bottle tooth decay, ask your dentist.

Calendar Of Events

The Meridian Source Calendar of Events is a free service provided for non-profit organizations located within our coverage area. All events are in chronological order, as space permits and at the editor’s discretion.

North Bend Musical Afternoon

North Bend Musical afternoon is held the second Sunday of each month except for August. Join us from 1-4 p.m. at the historic North Bend Hall, RR 3262 north of Hwy 3. Dancers and musicians are encouraged to join. Raffle tickets are available for our draw on July 9 for $1,000 worth of Diamond 7 Meat, a queen size quilt and a childsized gator.

Playschool Preregistration

Southridge Playschool & Kindergym has opened up their registration for the fall 2023-2024 classes. They offer one-day a week for threeyear-olds and one or two days a week for four/five-year-olds. They have also qualified for the Affordability Grant! For