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Winter Tires: Essential Insights for Safe Winter Driving

  Life as a driver in Canada can be costly, and the debate over the necessity of winter tires is ongoing. Here are some key points to consider: Winter Tire Benefits : Winter tires, marked with the alpine symbol, offer superior traction in icy and snowy conditions. They have wide tread grooves and soft rubber compounds that remain pliable in freezing temperatures, significantly improving safety. Cost and Usage : While winter tires can be expensive, ranging from $800 to $2,000, they are a worthwhile investment for those who drive frequently in winter conditions. All-season tires lose traction below 7°C, making winter tires a safer choice. Legal Requirements : Quebec mandates winter tires from Dec. 1 to March 15, and British Columbia requires them on most routes from Oct. 1 to April 30. Other provinces recommend but do not require them. Performance : Studies show that winter tires can reduce stopping distances by up to 30% compared to all-season tires, enhancing overall vehicle safety dur

Desperate Wait: Hundreds Line Up Outside Kingston Clinic in Search of Family Doctors



In a heart-wrenching display of the ongoing doctor shortage, hundreds of people braved the cold and rain, forming serpentine lines outside the CDK Family Medicine and Walk-In Clinic on Sutherland Drive. Their desperate mission? To secure a family physician—a lifeline to essential healthcare.

The scene unfolded over several days, with prospective patients lining up overnight, their determination unwavering. Kingston’s doctor shortage has left tens of thousands of residents without a primary care provider. The situation became even more dire when six doctors retired last May, adding over 8,000 people to the waiting list. The need for accessible healthcare is palpable, and the community’s frustration is mounting.

In a glimmer of hope, the CDK Family Medicine clinic announced that four doctors would begin accepting new patients in March. The response was overwhelming, with lines stretching for blocks during the first “rostering day.” However, some prospective patients were caught off guard when the clinic limited intake to the first 100 people in line.

As the rain-soaked queue persisted, the collective cry for better healthcare echoed through the streets. Kingston deserves more than desperate lines—it deserves a robust healthcare system that prioritizes its citizens’ well-being.

While the clinic’s efforts are commendable, it’s clear that systemic changes are needed. As we witness this poignant scene, let us advocate for policies that ensure timely access to medical professionals. Because in the heart of every person standing in that line lies a story—a story of hope, resilience, and the urgent need for a family doctor.


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