Mixed day for global stocks as market hopes for 'Santa Claus rally'Hazardous Driving to Avoid in 2025Construction is underway on a unique housing development build in Gananoque that uses onsite robotics and is aimed at addressing the affordable housing crisis through innovation and technology. Developed and funded by Horizon Legacy Group as part of the Marco Polo 100 Digital Build Challenge, this project will deliver 26 stacked townhouse units using advanced robotics, automation, and 3D printing technologies integrated with traditional construction methods. The initiative focuses on reducing construction costs to $100 per square foot, providing a model for affordable and sustainable housing. The project has received unanimous approval from the Gananoque planning committee and council, The development features bachelor, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units, designed to meet diverse housing needs. Horizon Legacy Group will act as the designer, developer, construction manager, owner, and operator of the project. With energy-efficient R-30 insulated wall assemblies and all-electric systems, the buildings are designed to reduce energy intensity by 20 per cent and greenhouse gas emissions by 67 per cent, meeting and exceeding Ontario Building Code standards. Proponents say the use of robotics is expected to streamline construction processes, consolidating three trades into one and helping to combat labour shortages. The robotic systems are designed to operate outdoors in Canadian climates, integrating software, hardware, and materials to meet structural and safety requirements. Mayor John Beddows and Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MPP Steve Clark recently took a site tour. [caption id="attachment_2878035" align="alignnone" width="1000"] Gananoque Mayor John Beddows, second from left, and Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MPP Steve Clark, at right, recently took a site tour of the Horizon Legacy housing development project in Gananoque.[/caption] “They’re trailblazing using robotics in home construction, to complete projects faster and at less cost,” said Clark. Beddows also praised the project, saying this is a living experiment that refines and improves the approach to address the challenges of input costs and skilled trade shortages. This project is scheduled to be completed by Fall 2025. Keith Dempsey is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter who works out of the Brockville Recorder and Times. The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.
Bennett Oghifo Fast growing indigenous auto company, Nord Automobiles, received two remarkable awards at the recently held 13th edition of the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) Award. The award held at the Oriental hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, was graced by top auto industry players as well as other stakeholders. Nord Automobiles, founded by a young enterprising Nigerian, Mr. Tobi Ajayi, went home with two of the famous awards, namely: CNG-powered mini-bus brand of the year and a special recogniition for the Nord A9, launched by the company into the local market earlier in the year. Tobi Ajayi, who is the Executive Chairman of the company, said the recognition was a testimony to the acceptance of the brand in Nigeria. He said the company’s investment in the CNG technology was its own way of supporting the CNG initiative of the President Bola Tinubu administration. According to him, the Nord brand is fast becoming a household name, even as its patronage is growing both within the public and private sectors. The Nord A9 is a three row Sports Utility vehicle (SUV) that can easily go for a family car, boosting ample leg room in the interior and generous ground clearance with its 2,820 mm wheel base. With a fantastic fuel efficient capacity of 8.2 litre/100km, the SUV comes with modern sound system and latest auto electronics and info mechanisms for the comfort of occupants. It also comes with a self-park option. Nord Automobiles is a leading Nigerian automobile manufacturer dedicated to producing high-quality vehicles tailored towards the needs of the customers. With a commitment to innovation, reliability, and sustainability, Nord says it aims to drive Nigeria’s automotive industry forward while making a positive impact on society. The company says its focus is on “delivering quality expertise in the value chain – which includes designing, sourcing, development, assembling, distribution, marketing, provision of sales and after-sales service of our unique Nigerian branded automobiles. “Our fleet of Nigerian branded vehicles include the Nord Tank, Nord Max, Nord Tusk, Nord Flit, Nord A3 Sedan, Nord A5 SUV, Nord A7 SUV, Nord A9, Nord Yarn, Nord Tripper, Nord Demir and more.” Aside from the assembly and distribution of quality automobiles, the company says it also provides services such as Scheduled Maintenance Services, Warranty Coverage, 24/7 Roadside Assistance, Genuine Parts and Accessories, Technical Support, Customer Feedback and Improvement, Exclusive Offers and Promotions.South Korean lawmakers set an example for democracies around the world. At around 10 p.m. on Dec. 3, 2024, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol declared martial law. It evoked a swift and decisive response. By 1 a.m. of the following day, Yoon’s declaration was thwarted by legislators who outmaneuvered military forces to ensure that the National Assembly could vote to nullify his decree. But what truly demonstrated the strength of South Korean democracy is how rapidly civil society has been mobilized to defend and protect democratic institutions, even in the middle of the night. South Korea faced and overcame an unprecedented political crisis in just roughly three hours. We Filipinos can, and we must learn from this event. Of course, our challenge is more demanding. Our politicians are a far cry from their South Korean counterparts. The executive’s action through the Department of Finance to transfer PhilHealth’s “excess” funds amounting to P89.9 billion to the national treasury to fund powerholders’ pet programs outside the national budget, thus circumventing the prohibition of pork barrel, is one such instance, calling for public outcry. The various hearings that the House of Representatives and the Senate hold supposedly “in aid of legislation” are another. These hearings have become occasions for grandstanding of certain political interests, which, at best, is nothing more than a tamasha for television viewers. What legislative measures have stemmed from these hearings? Consider, for instance, the various highly publicized quad comm investigations – the connection between illegal Philippine offshore gambling operators, illegal drugs, extrajudicial killings, and human rights violations during former president Rodrigo Duterte’s bloody war on drugs—that ended without vital legislative measures put forth or institutional reforms that the public could appreciate. Let’s make indignation loud and clear against rampant and unrestrained corruption fueled in large part by a Congress, which is oblivious to amending our bank secrecy law to conform with international standards for tackling the flow of money arising from all sorts of illegal activities. A people’s indignation at Congress’ displays of callousness, now counting 37 years, in passing the law prohibiting political dynasties despite the constitutional mandate. A people’s indignation at the 2025 General Appropriations Act labeled as austerity for the poor but gives huge budgets for pork and patronage and infrastructure for the rich. There is so much injustice. There should be anger and outrage. Remember, we showed the world that we, the people, have brought about a regime change through peaceful protest. We must not abandon that strength. Let us stand up and be counted. In this season of hope, let us rekindle our dream not just for ourselves but for our children and our children’s children, and be reminded that in the ordinary, God does the extraordinary. NORMAN V. CABRERA, President, Kapatiran Party [email protected] Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy .
Winners, losers as Eagles rout Rams 37-20 on Sunday Night FootballSan Francisco Tsunami Map: These California Coastal Areas Face Biggest Threat
Kudos to Arnie Alpert (For his letter: “Take another look at the 1950s). Indeed, it was because of courageous activists fighting for social justice in the repressive and regressive 1950s that laid the groundwork for the 1960s. Jean Stimmell Northwood Cross|Word Flipart Typeshift SpellTower Really Bad ChessThanksgiving Weekend Sports Guide: Your roadmap to NFL matchups, other games, times, odds
BEIRUT —Tensions in northeast Syria between Kurdish-led authorities and Turkish-backed groups should be resolved politically or risk "dramatic consequences" for all of Syria, the United Nations envoy for the country Geir Pedersen told Reuters on Monday. Hostilities have escalated between Syrian rebels backed by Ankara and the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces in the northeast since Bashar al-Assad was toppled on Dec. 8. Syrian armed groups seized the city of Manbij from the SDF on Dec. 9 and could be preparing to attack the key city of Kobani, or Ayn al-Arab, on the northern border with Turkey. "If the situation in the northeast is not handled correctly, it could be a very bad omen for the whole of Syria," Pedersen said by phone, adding that "if we fail here, it would have dramatic consequences when it comes to new displacement." The SDF - which is spearheaded by the Kurdish YPG - has proposed to withdraw its forces from the area in exchange for a complete truce. But Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, speaking alongside Syria's de facto new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa on Sunday in Damascus, said the YPG should disband totally. Turkey regards the YPG as an extension of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) militants who have fought an insurgency against the Turkish state and are deemed terrorists by Ankara, Washington and the European Union. Pedersen said a political solution "would require serious, serious compromises" and should be part of the "transitional phase" led by Syria's new authorities in Damascus. Fidan said he had discussed the YPG presence with the new Syrian administration and believed Damascus would take steps to ensure Syria's territorial integrity and sovereignty. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday the country will remain in close dialogue with Sharaa. Kurdish groups have had autonomy across much of the northeast since Syria's war began in 2011, but now fear it could be wiped out by the country's new Islamist rule. Thousands of women rallied on Monday in a northeast city to condemn Turkey and demand their rights be respected. Pedersen said Sharaa had told him in meetings in Damascus last week that they were committed to "transitional arrangements that will be inclusive of all". But he said resolving tensions in the northeast would be a test for a new Syria after more than a half-century of Assad family rule. "The whole question of creating a new, free Syria would be off to a very, extremely ... to put it diplomatically, difficult start," he said. —ReutersTHE NHS has issued a "stay home" warning as cases of norovirus surge - and common protection won't work. The contagious stomach bug spreads easily through close contact and eating food prepared by infected people - a stomach-turning prospect as families gathered together for festivities. 3 Health chiefs warned people with symptoms of the winter vomiting bug to stay at home Credit: PA 3 Cases of norovirus surged by 33.2 per cent in the two weeks between November 18 and December 1, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said. The total amount of infections reported was more than double the number of cases usually seen at this time of year - amounting to an 114 per cent increase. Now the NHS provided an update to social media on Friday. It advised: "Norovirus is a stomach bug that causes diarrhoea and vomiting. read more health VIRAL GRINCH Winter 'quad-demic' could strike this Christmas as flu & norovirus cases surge BUG BEAR The 5 everyday mistakes putting you at risk of norovirus as the bug runs rife "It can be very unpleasant, but usually goes away in about 2 days. If you catch it; stay home, rest and have plenty of fluids." Common symptoms of the dreaded bug include nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Often accompanied with these symptoms is a high fever, headaches, and limb pains. These tend to appear one or two days after infection. Most read in Health FLUNAMI Scotland battered by flu-bomb with worst season in years & 1100 in hospital HUGE SHOCK My son burned candle at both ends & faces life in wheelchair after stroke at 30 MIND MATTERS How to look after your mental health if you've had a stressful Christmas OH SANTA From Brussels sprouts to Turkey - 5 Xmas leftovers that can boost your sex life The key guidance also stresses the importance of avoiding work or school until those affected are symptom-free for 48 hours. This is especially important without vomiting or diarrhoea due to the contagious nature of the virus in this timeframe. I’m a doctor and these 5 changes could be a sign of deadly lung cancer It is also recommended to stay away from hospitals and care homes to prevent any more spreading of the virus. The NHS has also stressed the importance of hand washing with soap and water to stop norovirus from spreading. Alcohol-based sanitisers aren't effective against it, which is important to note. The virus can usually be managed at home with enough rest and hydration. However it's advised to call 111 if you're concerned about a baby under one years old. Why are norovirus cases rising? UKHSA said multiple factors could be behind the surge in norovirus cases, including the increased use of PCR multiplex technology for testing - which is capable of detecting multiple gastrointestinal pathogens in one test - as well as changes to the bug after the Covid-19 pandemic. The health watchdog also noted "the emergence of an unusual norovirus genotype" dubbed GII.17 . So far into the 2024/2025 norovirus season, a whopping 89 per cent of samples belonged to norovirus genogroup 2 (GII). 3 Of these, 66.3 per cent of cases were attributed to the GII.17 genotype. "An increase of this variant has also been observed in other counties during 2024 and is being closely monitored," UKHSA noted. "At present there is no indication it leads to more severe illness." The health watchdog said there were probably more norovirus cases than data indicates. "Lab reports represent just a small proportion of total norovirus cases," UKHSA explained. "It has been estimated that for every case of norovirus reported to national surveillance in the UK there are about 288 in the community that go unreported, representing an annual burden of around 3 million cases." How can I treat norovirus? Norovirus symptoms tend to inclue nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. But sufferers can also be struck with a high temperature, stomach pain and aching limbs. People can be at risk of dehydration after getting infected with norovirus, especially young children and older or immunocompromised people. If you do get ill it is important to drink plenty of fluids during that time, to replenish those lost through diarrhoea and vomiting. Symptoms tend to strike suddenly but you will usually start to feel better within two or three days. Read more on the Scottish Sun SNOW WAY Weather maps show heavy snow for Scotland in DAYS – with -2C New Year’s chill NO CRIME Orange Order slam cops after Celtic activist was cleared over 'sectarian rants' It's important that you stay off school or work until you have not been sick or had diarrhoea for at least two days, as this is when you're most infectious. What to do if you think you have norovirus - and when to call 999 If you think you have norovirus, stay hydrated, rest, and eat bland foods when you feel better. Wash hands often, disinfect surfaces, and avoid contact with others until 48 hours after symptoms stop. Seek medical advice if symptoms are severe or prolonged. When it comes to treatment, focus on staying hydrated with water or electrolyte drinks. Rest as much as possible. Eat bland foods like toast or crackers, rice, pasta. For symptom relief, consult your doctor about over-the-counter options. Symptoms should go away in one to three days. If you or your child experiences the following, you should call 999 or go to A&E: vomit blood or have vomit that looks like ground coffee have green vomit (adults) have yellow-green or green vomit (children) might have swallowed something poisonous have a stiff neck and pain when looking at bright lights have a sudden, severe headache or stomach ache Source: Dr Bruno Silvester Lopes, Lecturer in Microbiology at Teesside University and NHS
Police are reporting a second incident of alleged extreme road aggression in a week. Black Friday Sale Subscribe Now! Login or signup to continue reading All articles from our website & app The digital version of Today's Paper Breaking news alerts direct to your inbox Interactive Crosswords, Sudoku and Trivia All articles from the other regional websites in your area Continue The latest clash happened early on Sunday evening at the car park at Pine Island Reserve. After it, a 46-year-old is to face court accused of assault and threatening to kill someone. In an unconnected confrontation last week, one angry driver carried another angry driver off on the back of his ute. In Sunday's incident, the police said that a man and a woman were sitting in a car when a 46-year-old man who was known to the woman approached the vehicle. The police said that "the man began banging on the window before pulling the man out of the vehicle, punching and kicking him several times. "Bystanders intervened and separated the pair before the man got into his vehicle and drove at the other man. "The victim took shelter behind a boulder which the man hit with his vehicle before he fled the scene." Police said the alleged aggressor was arrested at 10pm in Calwell. "He has been charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, recklessly threatening to kill a person, and attempting to use an offensive weapon," ACT Policing said. In last week's angry confrontation, a driver got carried away - literally: he ended up being driven away on the back of the other truck in the confrontation . What seemed to have happened was that two drivers of trucks - a white Mazda B2600 ute and a white Toyota Hilux - stopped and confronted each other on Gundaroo Drive near the roundabout with the Barton Highway. ACT police arrested a man after he tried to run over another man in a car park. Picture by Keegan Carroll READ MORE COURT AND CRIME NEWS: Tradies find alleged pipe bomb in home of public servant who issued explosives threats Accused work Christmas party rapist claims he was only 'reaching for vape' Allegedly negligent truck driver charged over death of motorcyclist They shouted at each other and the driver of the Mazda then jumped on the back of the Hilux which then drove off with the driver's "opponent" on the back. The Hilux then stopped and the unwilling passenger had to walk back to his own truck. It is not known how far he had to trudge. "Both vehicles stopped and a short time later, the Toyota was seen travelling north along Gundaroo Drive with the driver of the Mazda in the tray of the Hilux," the police said. "The driver of the Toyota pulled over and the man in the tray exited the vehicle and began walking back towards the Barton Highway." Police wanted anyone who may be able to help with information to get in touch. "Anyone with information that can assist police, or who may have witnessed the incident, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website . Information can be provided anonymously." Share Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Email Copy Steve Evans Reporter Steve Evans is a reporter on The Canberra Times. He's been a BBC correspondent in New York, London, Berlin and Seoul and the sole reporter/photographer/paper deliverer on The Glen Innes Examiner in country New South Wales. "All the jobs have been fascinating - and so it continues." Steve Evans is a reporter on The Canberra Times. He's been a BBC correspondent in New York, London, Berlin and Seoul and the sole reporter/photographer/paper deliverer on The Glen Innes Examiner in country New South Wales. "All the jobs have been fascinating - and so it continues." More from Canberra Man accused of threatening to kill, attempting to run over someone in car park 27m ago Police will investigate alleged bus driver fish head assault No comment s Job-sharing: Can two people share a Senate seat? High Court will be asked to decide No comment s Capturing a Canberra icon: 40 years of Kingsley's marked with short doco No comment s Getting TAFE right would be a boon for the country No comment s Health authorities explore how meet 'extraordinary' demand surge with static staffing No comment s Newsletters & Alerts View all DAILY Your morning news Today's top stories curated by our news team. Also includes evening update. Loading... WEEKDAYS The lunch break Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. Loading... DAILY Sport The latest news, results & expert analysis. Loading... WEEKDAYS The evening wrap Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening. Loading... WEEKLY Note from the Editor Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. Loading... WEEKLY FootyHQ Love footy? We've got all the action covered. Loading... DAILY Early Look At David Pope Your exclusive preview of David Pope's latest cartoon. Loading... AS IT HAPPENS Public Service News Don't miss updates on news about the Public Service. Loading... WEEKLY Explore Travel Every Saturday and Tuesday, explore destinations deals, tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe. Loading... WEEKLY Property Get the latest property and development news here. Loading... WEEKLY What's On Going out or staying in? Find out what's on. Loading... WEEKLY Weekend Reads We've selected the best reading for your weekend. Loading... WEEKLY Times Reader's Panel Join our weekly poll for Canberra Times readers. Loading... WEEKDAYS The Echidna Sharp. Close to the ground. Digging deep. Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs, politics and more. Loading... TWICE WEEKLY The Informer Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday. Loading... WEEKLY Motoring Get news, reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert, ACM's exclusive motoring partner. Loading... TWICE WEEKLY Voice of Real Australia Get real, Australia! Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over. Loading... AS IT HAPPENS Breaking news alert Be the first to know when news breaks. Loading... DAILY Today's Paper Alert Your digital replica of Today's Paper. Ready to read from 5am! Loading... DAILY Your favourite puzzles Test your skills with interactive crosswords, sudoku & trivia. Fresh daily! Loading...