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The Ottawa Police Service says ten people were taken to hospital, with one of them in life-threatening condition, after being exposed to suspected carbon monoxide in the neighbourhood of Vanier on Sunday morning. Six adults and four children sustained various levels of poisoning, according to police. They were transported to different hospitals, Ottawa paramedics say. All four children are in serious, but stable condition. One adult is in life-threatening condition. The other five are in serious, but stable condition. Ottawa police say they received a call just after 9 a.m. reporting there were people in distress inside a home in the 200 block of Granville Street, north of Montreal Road. When police arrived at the scene, they found ten people were in distress. Officers on scene suspected that "there may have been some carbon monoxide poisoning involved." "There was a vehicle running inside the garage and the garage door was closed. Therefore, there wasn't sufficient ventilation for the exhaust coming out of the vehicle," said Insp. Scott Pettis with the Ottawa Police Service. "It's our understanding that the family that lives at the address is new to Canada. They're not really familiar with the cold. And they did run their vehicle to make it warm for them to travel at some point. Not knowing that they then had to open their garage door to properly ventilate the area." The patients were discovered by a family friend who had stopped by and seen them in distress. The friend then called 9-1-1. Police say the incident is not being treated as suspicious at this time. "The gas company is still working, just doing their checks to make sure everything else is okay before we allow the families to return," Pettis said. "I can say that there is sufficient alert systems inside the house and, so whether or not they were in working order, we're not exactly sure yet." Ottawa police Insp. Scott Pettis on Dec. 22, 2024. (Natalie van Rooy/CTV News Ottawa) Area councillor Stephanie Plante says the gas affected all three connected townhomes. She says each family has been evacuated. "People were not expecting to have this kind of holiday season and my thoughts are with them and their families," Plante said. Police are reminding residents to make sure all home fire and carbon monoxide alarms are functioning. Carbon monoxide, sometimes known as “the silent killer,” is an odourless, colourless gas that can be fatal in high concentrations. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include dizziness, vomiting, headache and eventually loss of consciousness and death. Nearby residents shocked Victoria Robinson lives nearby and says she was awoken by screaming and shouting. "The whole street was emergency vehicles. Then I saw, right in front of the house, there were two people on the ground receiving chest compressions," Robinson said. "It was very upsetting." Nearby resident Nicholas Laplante said they didn't know the people inside the home well but that they recently moved to the area. "My neighbor was there, the one beside the unit, helped him out, welcomed him in our house with his dog because it was cold outside," Laplante said. "It hits hard. It's unfortunate. It's the holidays. We hope that everybody's okay." A utility worker monitors a gas line on Granville St. after 10 people were hospitalized in a suspected carbon monoxide poisoning. (Natalie van Rooy/CTV News Ottawa) Shopping Trends The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop. Read about us. Editor's Picks 20 Great Last-Minute Gifts From Amazon Canada That Won't Break The Bank 22 Tiny (And Wonderful) Gifts To Stuff Your Stockings With This Year 28 Crowd-Pleasing Gifts For The Pickiest People On Your List Home 14 Of The Best Home Security Devices You Can Find Online Right Now (And They've Got The Reviews To Prove It) 13 Of The Best Fidget Toys For Adults 16 Cozy Home Essentials That Cost Less Than $100 Gifts The Clock Is Ticking — Shop These 25 Last-Minute Amazon Prime Gifts Now If You Have An Amazon Prime Account, These 70+ Crowd-Pleasing Gifts Will Still Arrive Before Christmas If You Have An Amazon Prime Account, These 50 Brilliant Stocking Stuffers Will Still Arrive Before Christmas Beauty 20 Products Your Dry, Dehydrated Skin Will Thank You For Ordering 14 Hydrating Face Masks That’ll Save Your Skin This December 12 Budget-Friendly Products To Add To Your Winter Skincare Routine Deals The Silk & Snow End Of Year Sale Is Officially On — Here's What To Add To Your Cart The Best Early Boxing Day Deals On Amazon Canada For 2024 This Smart Security Camera System Will Help You Keep An Eye On Your Home (And It's On Sale For 50% Off Right Now) Ottawa Top Stories 10 hospitalized after suspected carbon monoxide poisoning in Ottawa's east end Here's how you can watch CTV News at Six on Sundays during the NFL season Ottawa Ice Dragon Boat Festival cancelled for 2025 Flooding started, ice still thin: Here’s the latest update about the Rideau Canal Skateway What's open and closed in Ottawa over the holidays What's happening in Ottawa over the Christmas holidays OC Transpo to ring in 2025 with free transit on New Year's Eve OPP find wanted man by chance in eastern Ontario home, seize $50K worth of drugs CTVNews.ca Top Stories Wrongfully convicted N.B. man has mixed feelings since exoneration Robert Mailman, 76, was exonerated on Jan. 4 of a 1983 murder for which he and his friend Walter Gillespie served lengthy prison terms. Can the Governor General do what Pierre Poilievre is asking? This expert says no A historically difficult week for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his Liberal government ended with a renewed push from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre to topple this government – this time in the form a letter to the Governor General. opinion | Christmas movies for people who don't like Christmas movies The holidays can bring up a whole gamut of emotions, not just love and goodwill. So CTV film critic Richard Crouse offers up a list of Christmas movies for people who might not enjoy traditional Christmas movies. 'I'm still thinking pinch me': lost puppy reunited with family after five years After almost five years of searching and never giving up hope, the Tuffin family received the best Christmas gift they could have hoped for: being reunited with their long-lost puppy. Pickup truck driver killed by police after driving through Texas mall and injuring 5 A pickup truck driver fleeing police careened through the doors of a JCPenney store in Texas and continued through a busy mall, injuring five people before he was fatally shot by officers, authorities said. Two U.S. Navy pilots shot down over Red Sea in apparent 'friendly fire' incident, U.S. military says Two U.S. Navy pilots were shot down Sunday over the Red Sea in an apparent 'friendly fire' incident, the U.S military said, marking the most serious incident to threaten troops in over a year of America targeting Yemen's Houthi rebels. Big splash: Halifax mermaid waves goodbye after 16 years Halifax's Raina the Mermaid is closing her business after 16 years in the Maritimes. 10 hospitalized after suspected carbon monoxide poisoning in Ottawa's east end The Ottawa Police Service says ten people were taken to hospital, with one of them in life-threatening condition, after being exposed to suspected carbon monoxide in the neighbourhood of Vanier on Sunday morning. 'Sonic 3' bests 'Mufasa: The Lion King' at the box office In the holiday season battle of big-budget family movies, Paramount Pictures’ “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” sped past the Walt Disney Co.’s “Mufasa: The Lion King” to take the top spot at the box office ahead of the lucrative Christmas corridor in theaters. Atlantic Cape Breton police arrest second person in missing man investigation A second person has been arrested in the disappearance of Justin MacDonald in Cape Breton. Maritimers enjoy perfect conditions for the opening of Ski Martock near Windsor, N.S. Ski Martock near Windsor, N.S. opened their slopes Friday, welcoming the 2024/2025 season with a layer of fresh white snow. Canadian organization teaches people to combat loneliness through connection during holiday season. For some people the holidays are lonely time of year, but a Canadian organization is fostering a “human connection movement” in an effort to bring people together. Toronto Four people taken to hospital, 1 critical after house fire in Etobicoke: paramedics Four people are in hospital and one person has critical injuries after a house fire broke out in north Etobicoke Sunday afternoon. Westbound QEW, southbound Highway 403 in Oakville closed for police investigation The westbound Queen Elizabeth Way at Winston Churchill Boulevard along with the southbound lanes of Highway 403 at Upper Middle Road in Oakville are closed due to a police investigation. Cold weather in Toronto slowly easing up after frigid morning The temperature in Toronto is starting to ease up after a frigid Sunday morning, but still remains well below the freezing mark. Montreal Jewelry store robbery in Parc-Extension under investigation Montreal police (SPVM) are investigating a robbery that occurred at a jewelry store in the Parc-Extension neighborhood on Saturday evening. Workers helping the homeless in Montreal feel powerless as crisis deepens Social workers on the front lines of homelessness in Montreal say they feel increasingly powerless as more people find themselves forced to live in tents during the winter. Montrealers petition to halt Trudeau airport expansion over noise concerns Montreal residents living near flight paths are pushing back against plans to expand Trudeau International Airport, citing concerns over increased noise pollution. Northern Ontario OPP investigating fatal collision Saturday in northwest Ontario Ontario Provincial Police are investigating a fatal collision that occurred on Saturday evening in northwestern Ontario. Can the Governor General do what Pierre Poilievre is asking? This expert says no A historically difficult week for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his Liberal government ended with a renewed push from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre to topple this government – this time in the form a letter to the Governor General. Northern Ont. man illegally killed three moose, one deer A man from the northwestern Ontario community of Dinorwic has been found guilty of multiple hunting offences and fined $6,500, banned from hunting for five years and placed on probation for 18 months. Windsor 'Giving back': Kingsville store hands out free fresh groceries ahead of the holidays Cars lined up outside of Cindy’s Home and Garden store in Kingsville on Sunday morning for the first Green Pick-up Holiday Food Drive-Thru. Looking for a last minute stocking stuffer? This local fundraiser has the thing for you. If you’re looking for a stocking stuffer idea, consider the Kiwanis Camp Lottery Calendar! It offers $14,000 worth of prizes, including a cash prize every month and a gift up for grabs every week throughout next year. Annual Christmas dinner provides 2,000 meals to Windsor-Essex families About 30 volunteer drivers toured the region on Saturday, delivering the prepared meals, which included turkey, gravy, stuffing, dinner rolls and vegetables. London 'Ford Field Experience in London': Detroit Lions host tailgate and watch party at Canada Life Place It was a sea of Silver and Honolulu Blue on Dundas Place in London, Ont. as over 3,000 fans gathered for a Lions game on Sunday. Standoff in Seaforth at the centre of SIU investigation Following a standoff in Seaforth on Friday, the province’s police watch dog is investigating an officer’s conduct. Driver charged following collision with hydro box that plunged Listowel into darkness Saturday OPP and hydro crews were on scene on Hutton Street for much of the day working to clear the collision, and get power restored to the town. Kitchener Can the Governor General do what Pierre Poilievre is asking? This expert says no A historically difficult week for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his Liberal government ended with a renewed push from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre to topple this government – this time in the form a letter to the Governor General. Driver in Kitchener charged after going 180km/h in 70km/h zone A G2 driver has been charged after going 110km over the speed limit in Kitchener Sunday morning. 'I'm still thinking pinch me': lost puppy reunited with family after five years After almost five years of searching and never giving up hope, the Tuffin family received the best Christmas gift they could have hoped for: being reunited with their long-lost puppy. Barrie Residents startled by blue flashes in the sky during power outage in Barrie A power outage on Saturday night left over a thousand Barrie homes in the dark. Sauna fire creates cloud of smoke over part of Barrie's south end Dark clouds of smoke loomed over Barrie residents from a nearby parking lot in the south end. High school teacher charged with sexual assault amid allegations involving a student A 51-year-old teacher from Georgina has been charged with sexual assault following allegations involving a student. Winnipeg Minnesota-Manitoba border airport permanently shutting down after 70 years An airport with a runway that spans across the Canada-U.S. border will close for good by the end of this week. Manitoba man hopes to sell parts of unique, homemade musical instrument collection Eighty-eight-year-old Lorne Collie has been making musical instruments for more than three decades, creations that dazzle for their unique materials as much as their sound. Man attacks family with bear spray after vehicle collision: WPS A Winnipeg man is facing several weapon-related charges after police said he attacked a family with bear spray. Calgary Police looking for driver involved in pedestrian collision in downtown Calgary. One person is in hospital after being struck by an SUV in downtown Calgary early Saturday morning, It was Grandma, in the cafe with a Scrabble tile: Game cafes are big holiday business It’s the holidays, which means for many across the Prairies, there’s no better time to get locked in a dungeon with a dragon. Traffic advisory issued by RCMP due to poor driving conditions south of Calgary and north of Red Deer Alberta RCMP issued a traffic advisory early Sunday morning due to poor driving conditions throughout the province. Edmonton 'There’s no support': Domestic abuse survivor shares difficulties leaving her relationship An Edmonton woman who tried to flee an abusive relationship ended up back where she started in part due to a lack of shelter space. Hot NHL matchup between Oilers, Senators their last action before holiday break Two hot teams will look to create even more sparks Sunday night at Rogers Place before both sides take a holiday break. It was Grandma, in the cafe with a Scrabble tile: Game cafes are big holiday business It’s the holidays, which means for many across the Prairies, there’s no better time to get locked in a dungeon with a dragon. Regina Gathering held in Regina to recognize Winter Solstice Regina's mâmawêyatitân centre held a day of gathering for the Winter Solstice on Saturday. Canada's first sustainable Tim Hortons location to open in Regina this weekend Canada’s first sustainable Tim Hortons opens in Regina this weekend. The restaurant, located in the city’s east end, features design and operating features that minimize environmental impact. Gravelbourg's transportation program celebrates addition of new vehicle and garage The town of Gravelbourg is celebrating the addition of a new vehicle and garage which will be used in their local transportation program. Saskatoon Sask. woman dead following crash on Highway 5 A 69-year-old woman from the Humboldt area is dead after her SUV collided with a truck on Highway 5, according to police. Sask. police investigating mischief incident after bomb report in school Prince Albert police are investigating a mischief incident after a bomb report in a school Friday afternoon. Prince Albert woman collects donations to make Christmas hampers for community A Prince Albert woman is spreading holiday cheer by organizing Christmas hampers for those in need. Vancouver Second body recovered from site of B.C. landslide The second resident of a home that was destroyed by a landslide in Lions Bay, B.C., last weekend was found dead Saturday, officials confirmed. More strong winds hit parts of B.C.'s coast as record-high temperatures recorded What has been a windy weekend for parts of B.C.’s coast continued Sunday as Environment Canada issued a fresh set of wind warnings. Drug superlabs leave a toxic mess. Some say B.C.'s cleanup rules are a mess, too As clandestine drug labs become larger and more complex, so does the toxic mess they leave behind and the tools required to clean them up, creating expensive and dangerous situations for both people and the environment. Vancouver Island More strong winds hit parts of B.C.'s coast as record-high temperatures recorded What has been a windy weekend for parts of B.C.’s coast continued Sunday as Environment Canada issued a fresh set of wind warnings. Drug superlabs leave a toxic mess. Some say B.C.'s cleanup rules are a mess, too As clandestine drug labs become larger and more complex, so does the toxic mess they leave behind and the tools required to clean them up, creating expensive and dangerous situations for both people and the environment. Second body recovered from site of B.C. landslide The second resident of a home that was destroyed by a landslide in Lions Bay, B.C., last weekend was found dead Saturday, officials confirmed. Kelowna Forfeited Hells Angels clubhouse in Kelowna, B.C., sold to the city A former Hells Angels clubhouse that was seized by the British Columbia government in 2023 after years of fighting in court has been sold to the City of Kelowna. Death of woman found in Kelowna's Waterfront Park in June deemed 'non-criminal in nature': RCMP Police in Kelowna say a death they began investigating back in June has now been confirmed as "non-criminal in nature." B.C. man sentenced for 'execution-style' murder of bystander in drug trade conflict A B.C. man convicted of the "intentional and ruthless killing of a bystander" while acting as an enforcer in the drug trade has been sentenced for a second time in the slaying. Stay ConnectedArticle content Two LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations along with a group of five children and their parents have begun legal action against one of Alberta’s recently passed transgender bills, alleging it breaches Charter rights in three respects. Bill 26 — the Health Statutes Amendment Act 2024 — was one of three pieces of government legislation passed in the fall sitting regarding transgender policy. It aims to prohibit health-care professionals from performing any gender-affirming surgery on minors 17 and under. Egale Canada and Skipping Stone say the legislation denies medically necessary care from being provided to gender-diverse youth and violates Charter rights to equality, security of person, and freedom from cruel and unusual treatment. “The policy measures that the premier proposed early this year and then pursued to the legislature last month are ill-advised and will cause serious harm to the tiny population of gender diverse young people in the province,” Egale Canada director Bennett Jensen said in an interview. “It’s such a tiny population. It makes sense that the majority of the population may not understand what is best for this tiny population.” The five children who will be listed as applicants in the lawsuit are from across Alberta and range in age from six to 12 years old, and are therefor formally represented by their parents in the litigation. There were 7,305 transgender persons, and 5,170 people who identified as nonbinary among Alberta’s population of 4.3 million, according to the 2021 census . ‘There’s almost a terror’ The group filed an originating application in Court of King’s Bench in Calgary late Friday with the documents expected to be formally filed in the same court early Monday. They allege the bill violates the recently updated Alberta Bill of Rights , specifically equality rights as well as the right to not be subjected to or coerced into receiving medical care, medical treatment, or a medical procedure without consent unless that individual is likely to cause substantial harm to themselves or others. Jensen said they hope to secure an injunction against the Act and that the lawsuit was necessary to prevent the harm the policies would cause. “They don’t know how they would continue to live if they were forced to have changes happen to their body that aren’t right for them,” he said of the children, adding the new policies would harm their parents as well. “There’s almost terror. You can see a slow-moving train coming for your children.” Skipping Stone managing director Amelia Newbert accused the government of acting directly counter to expert guidance and introducing “policies that use fear and disinformation to target a small and vulnerable part of the community.” Jensen said challenging Bill 26 was an immediate priority given its ban on surgeries came into effect right away with new restrictions on puberty blockers and hormones to come into effect soon after. He said the organization will have more to say on the government’s two other trans bills — which require parental notice of pronoun changes and restrict trans women’s participation in sports — at a later date. Bill given Royal Assent on Thursday Government MLAs voted Bill 26 through third reading on Tuesday and the legislation received Royal Assent two days later. In a statement, the office of Justice Minister Mickey Amery said the government “carefully considers the rights of Albertans when drafting legislation, and we believe this legislation strikes an appropriate balance.” It declined further comment given the case was before the courts. In introducing the legislation on Oct. 31 , Smith described it as a guardrail that would “protect the future choices of minors who identify as transgender or who are experiencing gender dysphoria.” The legal action was anticipated to come throughout the week and Smith was asked Wednesday about a potential lawsuit and if her government would invoke the Charter’s section 33 notwithstanding clause, which allows certain rights to be suspended for a five-year period. “I don’t want to prejudge the court,” Smith told reporters. “We will put forward a robust case — that this (legislation) is reasonable in a free, democratic society, that it’s evidence-based, and that we’re protecting children and their right to be able to make adult decisions as adults.” — With files from Cindy Tran and The Canadian Press mblack@postmedia.com
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Scots more intimidated by banks than loan sharks, it’s revealed as dodgy lenders target food banksSurging Ahead in the AI Race While Nvidia often grabs headlines with its soaring stock performance, another player in the semiconductor arena is quietly gaining momentum: Micron Technology. Known for its memory chips like DRAM and NAND, Micron reported a remarkable 400% increase in year-over-year data center revenue, driving its total quarterly revenue up by 84% to $8.7 billion. A Sleepy Giant Awakes Despite an impressive earnings report, Micron’s stock has slipped about 44% from its recent highs. This downturn, however, presents a compelling opportunity for investors. The company’s integrated model, which combines both design and manufacturing, positions it to capitalize effectively during industry booms. AI’s Growing Influence Micron is riding the wave of the AI boom with more than half of its revenue now stemming from data centers. Although recent guidance sent the stock plummeting by 19% due to anticipated softness in consumer segments like smartphones, this appears to be a temporary challenge. Management highlighted that impacts from inventory adjustments should be short-lived, with a rebound expected in the latter half of fiscal 2025. An Undervalued Treasure With close ties to giants like Nvidia, accounting for 13% of its revenue, Micron stands to benefit massively as AI demand intensifies. The High Bandwidth Memory (HBM) market, crucial for AI applications, is projected to expand significantly, potentially quadrupling Micron’s HBM revenue in the coming years. The Takeaway Investors have the chance to acquire Micron stock still underpriced compared to its peers. If the AI cycle continues its upward trajectory, this could translate into substantial returns, making Micron a promising pick in the semiconductor sector. Unveiling Micron’s Potential in the AI Revolution Micron Technology’s Evolving Role in AI As the world witnesses rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), Micron Technology is emerging as a significant player in this transformative wave. Best known for its DRAM and NAND memory chips, Micron is carving a larger niche in the AI-driven semiconductor industry. The company witnessed a stunning 400% year-over-year increase in data center revenue recently, propelling its total quarterly revenue to $8.7 billion—a marked growth of 84%. Pros and Cons of Investing in Micron Investing in Micron has its advantages: – Pros: – Strategic Positioning: Micron’s integrated model of design and manufacturing is well-poised to exploit industry booms, particularly in AI-driven markets. – AI Revenue Boost: The company’s growing focus on data centers means it derives over half its revenue from this expanding sector. – Future HBM Growth: The High Bandwidth Memory market is essential for AI, and significant growth is expected, which could quadruple Micron’s related revenues. – Cons: – Market Volatility: Recent stock dips indicate potential volatility, with a 44% fall from recent highs. – Consumer Segment Weakness: Temporary softness in segments like smartphones may affect near-term performance. Anticipated Market Trends and Growth Looking ahead, industry experts predict substantial expansion in the High Bandwidth Memory (HBM) market. As AI technologies evolve, demanding more robust data processing capabilities, Micron is strategically positioned to benefit from this growth. Furthermore, their collaboration with tech behemoth Nvidia is a remarkable milestone, with around 13% of Micron’s revenue tied to this partnership, hinting at lucrative opportunities as AI demand escalates. Market Analysis and Predictions Micron’s strategic initiatives are closely aligned with broader semiconductor market trends. The growing importance of HBM in AI applications forecasts a promising future for Micron, especially given the projected quadrupling of its HBM revenues in forthcoming years. Investors recognize this potential, particularly as the AI revolution continues to accelerate, making Micron an intriguing prospect for those seeking exposure in the semiconductor sector. Competitive Landscape and Comparisons Compared to its competitors, Micron offers a unique investment proposition: – Nvidia Partnership: Unlike many peers, Micron has secured substantial revenue streams from collaborations with AI giants. – Future-Ready Technologies: While some companies focus heavily on traditional markets, Micron’s emphasis on memory advancements for AI underscores its future-forward strategy. Micron’s positioning in the semiconductor landscape, combined with its integrated model, sets it apart as a formidable contender in tapping the explosive AI market growth. For more insights into Micron’s future and its role in AI, explore their official page at Micron Technology .
Bryce Lindsay scores 18 to lead James Madison over Utah Valley 78-61U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin meets with Armenian Defense Minister Suren Papikyan (out of frame) at the Pentagon in Arlington, Va., Dec. 5. AFP-Yonhap Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Saturday highlighted the United States' network of alliances as a "great strategic advantage," and called for "strong" and "steady" American leadership as he seeks to cement the Biden administration's security policy legacy. Austin made the remarks at the Reagan National Defense Forum in Simi Valley, California, amid expectations that after taking office on Jan. 20, President-elect Donald Trump would reorient U.S. foreign policy under his America First credo likely to affect ties with allies and America's global leadership role. The secretary stressed that U.S. allies and partners, including South Korea, are "huge force multipliers," as he enumerated major security challenges, including "malice" from North Korea, China's assertiveness and Russia's war in Ukraine, to name a few. "First, we know that our unmatched network of alliances and partnerships is one of America's great strategic advantages," Austin said in a keynote speech. He added: "In today's world, any policy of 'peace through strength' depends by definition on alliances. American power projection depends by definition on our friends abroad. And American security depends by definition on those who freely join us in common purpose." Ahead of Trump's return to the White House, concerns have lingered that his perceived transactional approach to allies and partners could be a source of tension at a time when a raft of global challenges call for closer security coordination with them. Austin said that America's rivals and foes look at its network of allies and partners "with envy," while warning that they want to "divide and weaken" the U.S., and split it off from its allies and partners. He also pointed out a growing alignment among potential adversaries. "Yes, autocrats may band together. But when Putin turns to North Korea for troops, it is not a sign of strength. It's an admission of weakness," he said. "Autocrats resort to partnerships of convenience. But America leads partnerships of conviction." Austin asserted the need for America to maintain robust global leadership, which he said rallies allies and partners for shared security. "Peace is not self-executing. Order does not preserve itself. And security does not flower on its own," he said. "The world built by American leadership can only be maintained by American leadership." He underscored that the troubles of the current times will "only grow worse without strong and steady American leadership." "And if we forfeit our position of responsibility, our rivals and foes will be glad to fill the vacuum," he said. The secretary took stock of progress in the Biden administration's efforts to address global security quandaries, while noting that four years ago before Biden took office, America faced a "moment of great challenge." "We face major national security challenges. That includes coercion and bullying from the People's Republic of China; imperial aggression from Putin's Russia; malice from Iran, North Korea and terrorist groups; and autocrats worldwide who believe that democracy is a thing of the past," he said. "But we have stood up to Putin, stood up to North Korea, stood up to Iran, stood up to Hamas and Hizballah, and stood up to autocrats and thugs and bullies worldwide. We have stood up for American values and American leadership." He voiced hope that progress from the Biden administration will continue. "The baton will soon be passed. Others will decide the course ahead," he said. "And I hope that they will build on the strength that we have forged over the past four years." Austin attended the annual forum before he heads to Japan in his 13th trip to the Indo-Pacific. He had initially planned a visit to South Korea, but the Korea portion of the trip was canceled in the aftermath of President Yoon Suk Yeol's short-lived martial law imposition. (Yonhap)
The risk associated with some of programs crystalized with the election of former President Donald Trump, whose administration is certain to make dismantling diversity, equity and inclusion programs a priority.Sen. Tim Scott Notes That 'Skyrocketing Costs' Are 'Bitter Aftertaste' of Biden’s PoliciesThe Laundromat (Pvt) Ltd, established in 1994, has become Sri Lanka’s leading independent laundry provider, renowned for its commitment to excellence in professional laundry services. With over 22 retail outlets nationwide and a diverse client base spanning various industries, The Laundromat offers a comprehensive range of solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of both individuals and businesses. Partnering with Ironwood Capital Partners, and with Steven Enderby, the Investment Committee Chairman of Ironwood, The Laundromat combines the expertise of skilled professionals with cutting-edge technology sourced from globally recognized brands such as UNICA, Unimac, Girbau, Forenta, Union, and Kannegiesser. Its modern equipment and environmentally safe cleaning methods ensure the highest standards of quality and efficiency. Its services include washing, where garments are professionally cleaned after an expert evaluation, and steam pressing, which delivers a polished finish while preserving the shape and form of clothing. The dry-cleaning service uses advanced chemistry to remove organic and inorganic stains effectively. It also offers pick-up and delivery for added convenience, one-day service for urgent needs, and a seamless drop-off option at its Reid Avenue location. Additionally, for the first time in Sri Lanka, a new model has been introduced to the industry. It provides premium linen rental services for hotels, villas, and apartments, enabling clients to enjoy cost-effective, pay-per-use solutions while focusing on guest satisfaction. Through its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, The Laundromat continues to redefine the laundry experience in Sri Lanka. Thusitha Gunasena, the third CEO of The Laundromat (Pvt) Ltd, is a highly accomplished professional with over 15 years of experience, specializing in Finance and Business. Throughout his career, he has successfully managed various organizational departments, demonstrating exceptional leadership and adaptability in dynamic environments. His expertise in driving business operations and delivering sustainable results has been instrumental in his journey to the top leadership position at The Laundromat. Under his guidance, the company continues to excel in one of Sri Lanka’s most demanding industries. Notably, his tenure coincided with a significant milestone—the prestigious SLIM Brand Excellence Award in the SME Category. In an exclusive interview with Daily News ANCL, Thusitha Gunasena humbly shared his insights into this remarkable achievement, reflecting his commitment to excellence and his gracious hospitality. Q: How has your experience at The Laundromat been since you began your journey? When I first joined The Laundromat, the working environment was far from ideal. There was no proper system or structure in place, and employees lacked the knowledge and exposure to operate in a professional, corporate setting with effective communication. It was evident that we needed to start from scratch—developing skills, fostering a positive culture, and building a robust organization. At the time, the company was not profitable, and as a 20-year-old entity, it required significant restructuring to ensure its viability. To address these challenges, we partnered with Ironwood Capital Partners, a renowned investment firm and our main shareholder, which pools equity from various investors. Through this affiliation, we gained the necessary financial backing to reposition the company for long-term success. These past three years, however, have been incredibly challenging. I took over shortly after the Easter attacks, COVID-19 pandemic and a national economic crisis. These events disrupted the supply of essential materials and services, making it a monumental task to keep the business operational. Despite these obstacles, I am proud to say that today The Laundromat is recognized as the “Largest, and most trusted Professional laundry service in Sri Lanka.” This tagline reflects our efforts to reshape public perception and instill pride in our employees, making them feel like true professionals in their field. Q: How would you redefine Laundromat’s Significant Growth as a Business? Last three years, our business has experienced exponential growth, marking us as a standout player in the laundry industry. We have consistently achieved impressive year-on-year growth, fueled by strategic planning, innovation, and a relentless focus on quality service delivery. This growth has not only allowed us to expand our presence but also solidified our reputation as a dependable and customer-centric brand. Key indicators of our success include: Increased Customer Base : We have attracted and retained a diverse clientele by offering tailored solutions that cater to the varying needs of households, small businesses, and large-scale industries. Operational Expansion: To accommodate the growing demand, we have significantly scaled up our operations. This includes opening new outlets in high-demand locations, investing in state-of-the-art machinery, and implementing advanced technologies to optimize efficiency. Revenue Growth: Our financial performance reflects our consistent success, with revenue seeing substantial increases annually, a direct result of our customer loyalty and operational excellence. Market Leadership: Through consistent efforts, we’ve positioned ourselves as an industry leader, recognized for our innovative practices, customer service, and social responsibility initiatives. This sustained growth not only underscores our business acumen but also our ability to adapt to changing market trends and customer expectations. It serves as a foundation for further expansion, ensuring we continue to set benchmarks in the laundromat industry. Q: What measures has your organization implemented to enhance customer satisfaction and ensure a seamless, welcoming experience at your laundromats? Customer satisfaction is not just a goal; it’s a core value that drives everything we do. To deliver an unparalleled experience, we have introduced a series of transformative upgrades across our outlets. The ambiance of our laundromats has been thoughtfully curated to ensure a welcoming and stress-free environment. From modern interiors to comfortable waiting areas, every detail has been designed with customer convenience in mind. Our staff undergo rigorous training to master not just operational excellence but also the art of hospitality—greeting customers warmly, responding to their needs promptly, and ensuring that every interaction leaves a positive impression. Additionally, we have leveraged technology to enhance efficiency, making order handling seamless and error-free. These innovations, combined with our team’s commitment, ensure that every customer feels valued and appreciated at every touchpoint. Q: What are your thoughts on giving recognition to The Laundromat as an industry leader? Our industry has long been overlooked and undervalued. For years, the laundry sector was dismissed as nothing more than the traditional “dhoby” business, with little respect from the hierarchy or acknowledgment as a vital service provider, even by star-class hotels. Unlike other services in the tourism industry, laundry has yet to receive the recognition it deserves. We have consistently submitted proposals to various governments, advocating for laundry to be acknowledged as a key component of the tourism sector. Unfortunately, we have not been successful so far, but I remain hopeful that the current administration will recognize our contributions and include us under the umbrella of recognized tourism services. Our work plays a crucial role in elevating societal standards. By maintaining impeccable service quality, we provide value not just to our clients but to the broader industrial sector. I firmly believe that our business is essential to the nation’s progress and deserves its rightful place among respected industries. Q: How do you feel about winning the SLIM Brand Excellence Award in the SME Category? Winning the SLIM Brand Excellence Award in the SME Local Brand of the year Category is an extraordinary achievement and a proud milestone for The Laundromat. This recognition underscores our commitment to excellence, innovation, and unwavering dedication. It reflects the tireless efforts of our team and the trust and loyalty of our customers and partners. This award has added immense value to our brand, affirming the positive changes we’ve made to elevate customer perception. It also validates the culture, mechanisms, and hard work we’ve implemented to create a seamless connection between our employees and customers. This recognition inspires us to reach even greater heights, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to this success. Q: How does your organization integrate corporate social responsibility into its operations, and what specific initiatives do you undertake to benefit employees and the broader community? We believe that businesses have a responsibility that goes beyond profits—to create a positive impact on society. Our robust CSR programs reflect this ethos, encompassing a variety of welfare initiatives for both our internal team and the broader community. For our employees, we provide wellness programs, professional development opportunities, and financial literacy workshops to ensure their holistic growth and stability. For the community at large, we actively support local charities, sponsor educational programs, and organize awareness campaigns addressing pressing social issues. These efforts are not one-off activities but an integral part of our identity. Whether it’s through contributing to disaster relief efforts, supporting underprivileged communities, or engaging in environmentally sustainable practices, our aim is clear: to be a force for good that uplifts lives and strengthens communities. Q: How does The Laundromat contribute to the Sri Lankan economy? The Laundromat plays a pivotal role in supporting Sri Lanka’s tourism industry. A key aspect of a tourist’s hotel experience is the quality of linen, which creates a lasting impression. We have always prioritized maintaining the highest standards for our linen, using advanced washing techniques that meet globally accepted technical standards. Currently, we cater to more than 3,000 hotel rooms, including many city hotels that lack in-house laundry facilities due to space constraints. As a result, we serve as direct suppliers to the tourism sector, helping generate foreign exchange for the country. The positive reviews earned by star-class hotels are often tied to the freshness, fragrance, and quality of the linen we provide, further enhancing Sri Lanka’s reputation as a premium tourist destination. This commitment to quality comes with significant investment, but we are proud to deliver services that uphold the country’s hospitality standards and contribute meaningfully to the economy. Q: How does your organization demonstrate its commitment to workforce diversity and inclusion, particularly in empowering women and individuals with disabilities? Our commitment to fostering growth extends beyond business metrics to the people who drive our success. We take immense pride in having created opportunities for over 300 individuals, enabling them to thrive in the laundromat industry. Recognizing the importance of diversity and inclusion, we have ensured that more than 30% of our workforce comprises women. This commitment empowers women to excel in roles traditionally underrepresented by them, breaking barriers and setting new benchmarks in workplace equality. In addition, we have pioneered initiatives to provide meaningful employment to individuals with disabilities. Among our workforce are 13 talented individuals who are deaf and mute. Their invaluable contributions have enriched our organizational culture, demonstrating that talent and determination transcend physical limitations. By fostering an inclusive environment, we celebrate the unique strengths and perspectives that each team member brings to our operations, making our workplace not just diverse but truly dynamic. Q: How does your organization promote awareness about proper linen care, and what impact do these initiatives have on industries like hospitality and tourism? As an industry leader, we recognize our responsibility to educate and inspire others about the importance of proper linen care. Clean, well-maintained linens are more than just a matter of hygiene—they contribute to comfort, health, and overall well-being. Through workshops, educational campaigns, and collaborations with tourism and hospitality sectors, we’ve raised awareness about best practices in linen handling. From the benefits of frequent laundering to tips on preserving fabric quality, our initiatives empower individuals and businesses to adopt higher standards of cleanliness and care. These efforts not only enhance public awareness but also support broader industry goals, ensuring that sectors like hospitality and tourism uphold the highest standards of service. By promoting sustainable and hygienic practices, we are helping to build a future where cleanliness is prioritized at every level. Q: What is your outlook on life and its connection to your profession? I believe every profession should be respected and valued, as it serves as the foundation of one’s livelihood. As the CEO of The Laundromat, I am passionate about changing societal perceptions that prioritize white-collar jobs over other essential roles. I am determined to highlight the importance of the work done by those who dedicate their efforts to our company’s success. My vision extends beyond restructuring the business—I aim to reshape societal attitudes by fostering respect for all professions. I hope to attract more professionals to this field, showing them that laundry is not just a service but a cornerstone of various industries, including tourism. Under my leadership, I am committed to ensuring The Laundromat thrives as a symbol of excellence, professionalism, and innovation. My goal is to inspire people, transform perspectives, and continue setting benchmarks for success.
