More than $122M worth of illicit cannabis seized in eastern Ontario: police

In Barrie, Ontario, the city council has recently approved stricter bylaws to facilitate the removal of encampments, raising concerns among residents and advocates about the lack of alternative housing options for those affected. This move highlights the ongoing struggle with homelessness in the area, as many individuals find themselves without a safe place to go. The situation is critical, as it underscores the need for comprehensive solutions to support vulnerable populations.

Classes have been cancelled at two colleges in Ontario due to a strike by support staff, who are participating in rallies across the province. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions between educational institutions and their support workers, affecting students' learning experiences and raising concerns about the quality of education during the strike.

In a light-hearted turn of events, a homeowner in Barrie, Ontario, called 911 to report a break-in, only for police to discover a raccoon munching on apples instead. This amusing incident highlights the unexpected moments that can occur in everyday life, reminding us that not all intruders are dangerous.

A recent report from Rates.ca highlights a troubling trend in Ontario, where home insurance rates are skyrocketing, largely due to flood claims. Just one claim for flood damage can lead to a staggering 19 percent increase in premiums. This is concerning for homeowners, as it suggests that even those without flood coverage may face rising costs. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for residents as they navigate their insurance options and budget for potential increases.

A recent report from Ontario's auditor general reveals that the province is likely to fall short of its emissions targets, and the situation could be worse than expected. This matters because it highlights the challenges Ontario faces in addressing climate change and the effectiveness of its current policies, particularly those favoring car use, which may hinder progress towards a more sustainable future.

Severe 85mph winds have left hundreds without power in Wales, causing significant disruptions. A ferry attempting to reach Holyhead was forced to circle offshore for hours, unable to dock. This situation highlights the impact of extreme weather on transportation and local infrastructure, raising concerns about safety and emergency preparedness.

The recent failure of the government funding vote in the US Senate has dashed hopes for a swift resolution to the ongoing government shutdown. With Democrats standing firm in their position, President Donald Trump is preparing to implement layoffs and budget cuts across federal agencies. This situation is critical as it not only affects government operations but also impacts countless employees and services that rely on federal funding.

The Bledisloe Cup match between Australia and New Zealand is set to take place in Perth, with kick-off scheduled for 5:45 PM local time. Fans can expect a challenging game due to damp conditions, as rain has been intermittent throughout the day, making the field slick. This match is significant as it continues the long-standing rivalry between the Wallabies and the All Blacks, drawing attention from rugby enthusiasts and impacting the Rugby Championship standings.

Tensions continue to escalate in the Israel-Gaza conflict as airstrikes are reported in Gaza, despite former President Donald Trump's call for an immediate halt to the bombings. Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu has indicated that the country is ready to implement the first stage of Trump's Gaza plan, which aims to address the ongoing crisis. This situation is critical as it not only affects the lives of those in Gaza but also has broader implications for regional stability and international relations.

Australia's second match in the Women's Cricket World Cup against Sri Lanka faced interruptions due to lightning in Colombo. Groundstaff had just begun to remove the covers when the weather turned, highlighting the challenges of playing in unpredictable conditions. The match requires at least 20 overs per side to be counted, and an extra hour is allocated for delays. This situation underscores the importance of weather management in sports, especially in tournaments where every match counts.

As the Premier League season heats up, David Moyes has expressed that a top 10 finish would be a satisfactory outcome for Everton. Meanwhile, Bournemouth's recent performance has propelled them to second place in the league, showcasing the competitive nature of this season. This news is significant as it highlights the shifting dynamics in the league and the varying aspirations of different clubs, making every matchday crucial for teams aiming for better standings.