More closures and detours are coming for the Ngāruawāhia section of the Waikato Expressway as the level of activity picks up to ensure the project is complete by mid-December.
This means weekday night closures and detours will be required throughout November, with the possibility of further full week 24/7 closures at the end of the month if required.
Additional contractors are being brought in so that when the closures are in place work will happen on the northbound and southbound lanes at the same time, says Jo Wilton, Senior Manager Project Services at NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi.
“We’re absolutely determined to get this finished and open to four lanes of traffic by mid-December, ahead of the busy Christmas period, which is why we’re throwing more resources at this.
“This project to repair and upgrade this section of the Waikato Expressway has caused ongoing disruption for some time and we’re asking for a bit more patience from motorists while we ramp up activity on site to finish the job,” Ms Wilton says.
The following schedule is listed on the Waikato Expressway surface works project and drivers are encouraged to check this page for the latest information on closures and detours.
Night closures (7pm-5am) starting Sunday night and finishing Friday morning
Both directions
Sunday 10 November to Friday 15 November
Night closures (7pm-5am) starting Sunday night and finishing Friday morning
Both directions
Sunday 17 November to Friday 22 November
Night closures (7pm-5am) starting Sunday night and finishing Friday morning
Both directions
Sunday 24 November to Friday 29 November (If needed – to be confirmed)
Full road closure from midnight Sunday to midday Friday
Both directions
Sunday 1 December to Friday 6 December (If needed – to be confirmed)
Full closure from midnight Sunday to midday Friday
Both directions
Additional night closures may be required in early December. Further information will be released about this closer to the time and the table on the website will be updated.
When the Ngāruawāhia section is open to traffic a contraflow system will be in place where all vehicles will use either the northbound or southbound lanes to allow work to continue. Drivers are advised to follow the signage around the Lake Road interchange which will manage the connections to SH1 and SH1C at Lake Road and to Horotiu.
“As always with road works there may be disruption from the weather or other unforeseen circumstances, but by setting aside this amount of time for full closures, we’re confident that we’ve got enough time in reserve to ensure the job is done by our 15 December deadline,” Ms Wilton says.
It’s a busy time on the network – so plan ahead before you travel with Journey planner:
Attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Dave Thompson
Police are continuing enquiries into the death of a man at Muaūpoko Park, Lake Horowhenua.
A homicide investigation was launched after the man was located deceased in a building on Thursday 17 October.
The victim can now be named as 56-year-old Horowhenua man Robert Nattie Albert.
A funeral service for Robert was held on Tuesday 22 October at the Ngāti Huia marae.
We have heard from a number of members of the public who were in the Lake Horowhenua area on Wednesday 16 and Thursday 17 October. Footage from the surrounding areas has also been obtained and analysed to identify the movements of vehicles and people in the area.
We would still like to hear from anyone who was in the Lake Horowhenua area that hasn’t yet spoken to us.
If you have any information that could help our enquiries, please update us online now or call 105.
Please use the reference number 241017/7823.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Seven months after the discovery of a body in a bag found in Gulf Harbour, Police can now reveal the identity of the victim.
She was Shulai Wang, 70, of China.
Police have been investigating the death since she was found in the water in Gulf Harbour on 12 March.
Acting Detective Inspector Tim Williams, Waitematā CIB, says extensive enquiries have been carried out to identify the victim.
“Detectives from the Operation Parade investigation team recently travelled to China to assist with this process.
“The investigation team has been working tirelessly in the months since the homicide investigation was launched to piece together who this victim was, and the events leading up to her death.
Acting Detective Inspector Williams says Mrs Wang came to New Zealand in August 2023 from China.
“She had no family in New Zealand and had not been reported missing.
“Mrs Wang’s family back in China have been advised of her death and we are working with them and international authorities to repatriate Mrs Wang and return her to her family.
“We appreciate there are still many questions the community has in relation to this investigation and we can assure you our team is working around the clock to find those answers.”
Two people, a man and woman both aged 37, remain before the Court charged with interfering with human remains.
The investigation into Mrs Wang’s death is ongoing and Police will continue to provide further updates as our investigation allows.
Released by: The Premier, Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading, Minister for Homelessness
The Minns Labor Government has passed the most significant rental reforms in over a decade in the NSW Parliament.
This historic legislative package follows through on Labor’s election commitment to improve rental laws and strikes the right balance between the interests of owners and renters.
These reforms will mean that more than 2.2 million renters across the state will soon enjoy the following benefits:
No grounds evictions will be banned;
Rent increases will now be limited to only one per year;
It will be easier to have pets in rentals;
Fee-free ways to pay rent; and
A ban on paying for background checks when applying for a property.
The banning of no grounds evictions will ensure housing security for renters, allowing them to make a house a home. The reforms will also give landlords more clarity on when they can end a fixed term or periodic lease based on clear, straightforward reasons.
Previous protections against multiple rent hikes did not apply to fixed term leases of less than two years, or when there is a change in the type of lease, such as from periodic to fixed term, so this new legislation now closes those legal loopholes.
The changes to make it easier to have pets in rentals will mean a tenant can apply to keep a pet, with landlords only able to decline on certain grounds.
Tenants will now have easy and free ways to pay their rent by requiring property owners and agents to offer zero-fee ways to pay such as bank transfer and Commonwealth Centrepay.
The new laws protecting renters from having to pay for background checks and limiting rent rises to one per year will take immediate effect upon the Bill’s assent.
The ban on no ground evictions and the rules making it easier to have pets in rentals will come into effect once the Residential Tenancies Regulation 2019 has been amended in early 2025.
The passing of these laws follows extensive and detailed discussions with renter advocates, industry stakeholders and tenancy experts, as well as a ‘Have Your Say’ public consultation process which received more than 16,000 submissions and survey responses.
The Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill 2024 also complements key initiatives already announced to rebalance the rental marketplace:
Portable bond scheme – Investing $6.6 million to develop and deliver the nation’s first Portable Rental Bonds Scheme. This means eligible renters can move homes and digitally transfer their existing bond with them.
Establishing Rent Check – A new, free tool renters can use to help check whether the rent they’re being asked to pay is fair.
Rental Taskforce within NSW Fair Trading – The Government will invest $8.4 million for a taskforce with investigators, inspectors and support teams to help renters and act on serious breaches of rental laws.
Premier Chris Minns said:
“Renters have been the forgotten people in NSW for too long, and that ends now.
“We have delivered major changes that make it fairer for the millions of renters across our state.
“Millions of people rent in NSW, and we know how anxious and challenging it can be.
“This brings the rental market into the 21st century.
“These are sensible reforms to get the balance right for renters and owners.
“Housing is the biggest cost people have, and renters are now getting a fairer deal.”
Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said:
“These landmark reforms are a huge leap forward and will create a fairer and more affordable rental system for the 2.2 million renters in this state.
“By limiting rent increases to only one a year, banning no grounds evictions, making it easier to have pets in rentals, and ensuring people can pay their rent without hidden fees, these historic reforms will make it easier for renters in NSW.
“We want a thriving rental market in NSW where landlords have certainty and tenants have security, and these reforms do just that.”
Minister for Homelessness Rose Jackson said:
“Renters deserve a fair go. We know how hard it can be for young people and families who are facing consecutive rent increases, unfair evictions and hidden fees.
“Today we are taking historic steps to ban unfair “no-grounds evictions”, ending hidden fees and allowing pets in rentals.
“We inherited a rental crisis and a housing crisis and since day one we’ve been committed to making renting fairer and more secure.
“This is a huge win for renters in our state – it was an election commitment and today we are making the system fairer and more compassionate for all.”
NSW Rental Commissioner Trina Jones said:
“The current rental market in NSW is the toughest that renters have seen for decades, with historically low vacancy rates, and median rent prices for houses increasing by around 7 per cent over the last 12 months.
“These reforms will provide tenants with practical and meaningful support, which will help ease the insecurity and vulnerability of renting in challenging city and regional rental markets.”
The NSW Government has passed legislation addressing the refusal of private insurers to pay their bills in public hospitals.
The refusal of the country’s biggest private health funds to pay the correct single room rate has been robbing public hospitals of $140 million each year.
The bill passed the Legislative Council 21 to 17 with the support of the Greens, the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers, the Animal Justice Party and the Legalise Cannabis Party.
In the Legislative Assembly it passed 50 to 31 with the backing of six of the eight independents who voted, and the Greens.
The result means the Leader of the Opposition led a vote against the very same legislation he backed a decade ago.
In 2013, Liberal Leader Mark Speakman supported then-Treasurer Mike Baird’s bill to amend the Health Insurance Levy.
This achieved an agreement from the private insurers to pay their fair share.
However in 2019 the major funds began walking away from that agreement, and since then have doubled their profits.
Mr Baird’s 2013 legislation was supported by NSW Labor in a united effort to ensure the big private health insurers paid their bills.
But the Liberal Party’s opposition signals that under Mr Speakman’s leadership, private insurers can walk away from their bills with no recourse.
The Opposition Leader, the Shadow Treasurer and the Member for Vaucluse must explain why they believe wealthy private insurers don’t have to play by the same rules as hard-working families across NSW and pay their bills.
The NSW Government remains open to dialogue with major insurers to resolve the issue.
The Government applauds the majority of non-profit private health funds, including Teachers Health, Nurses and Midwives Health and Emergency Service Health, who continue to pay the correct rate.
Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said:
“Mike Baird was right in 2013 when he demanded insurers pay their fair share and a decade later, we are right to reinforce that agreement.
“Premiums didn’t go down when the big insurers stopped paying their bills. They shouldn’t threaten families with an increase now. The big insurers can still resolve this impasse by simply paying their bills.
“The Government thanks those on the cross benches in both houses who supported this bill.”
Minister for Health Ryan Park said:
“All we’re asking is that private health insurers pay their fair share of their use of public hospital beds.
“Every day they don’t, it’s costing the state over $338,000 – every single day.
“It is so emblematic of the current Liberal Opposition that they refuse to support the very same bill they proposed when they were confronted with this very same set of circumstances.
“It is so symptomatic of this Liberal Opposition which no longer knows what it stands for, completely devoid of conviction.”
Preventing and eliminating domestic and family violence is a priority for the NSW Government.
Evidence shows that early intervention can improve the lives of children and young people, including those who have experienced family violence, building resilience as they recover.
Funded with $13 million under the National Partnership Agreement with the Commonwealth Government, Safe and Strong uses a dual model of early intervention support for both victim-survivors and their children who are experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, family violence.
Service providers will deliver specialist early supports such as counselling, family capacity building, and supported playgroups.
Case workers will help families to identify early indicators of violence in their homes, and deliver therapeutic, trauma-informed and culturally safe support focusing on the needs and experiences of victim-survivors and their children.
There are 11 Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) that will deliver Safe and Strong in 10 priority locations across NSW, and service delivery will commence in the remaining 22 priority locations in early 2025.
ACCOs are best placed to understand community need and deliver services to achieve better results for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and their children, and have been prioritised to deliver this service.
Aboriginal-led, trauma-informed and culturally safe strategies recognise the importance of culture, connection to Country and the role of men’s and women’s business in responding to and healing from family violence.
Locations for delivery of Safe and Strong were selected using domestic violence crime and child protection data, to identify areas of the highest need.
Safe and Strong demonstrates the NSW government’s ongoing commitment to addressing family violence within our communities and aligns with the objectives of the NSW Domestic and Family Violence Plan 2022-2027.
The early intervention service complements the range of domestic and family violence supports already in place in NSW, including the Specialist Workers for Children and Young People program, Staying Home Leaving Violence and Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Services.
This project is funded for 12 months and will be independently evaluated to measure its impact and effectiveness.
The NSW Government has committed $245.6 million in the 2024-25 Budget to improve support for domestic and family violence victim-survivors and expand programs that reduce the rate of violence, including in early intervention and primary prevention.
Federal Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said:
“To achieve our goal of ending gender-based violence in one generation, we need to provide genuine support for our young men and boys now.
“That’s why the Albanese Labor Government has worked to elevate the voices of children in the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children.
“We have invested $3.4 billion to deliver the National Plan over the past 3 budgets and a further $4.4 billion to harness opportunities to prevent violence and support legal services as announced at the 6 September National Cabinet meeting on gender-based violence. This includes work that will have a specific focus on supporting First Nations children and young people.
“Our Government is proud to invest in supports that will lead to long-term change and provide meaningful support to young men and boys to help them break the cycle of violence, as well as support victim-survivors.”
NSW Minister for Families and Communities Kate Washington said:
“Domestic and family violence can tear families apart; and the impact on children and young people can be lifelong.
“Many children who enter the child protection system have come from houses of violence and carry that trauma with them.
“The Safe and Strong program is designed to stop the cycle of abuse by identifying families at risk and offering timely support so more Aboriginal children can stay safely with their families.”
NSW Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said:
“It is critical that we respond to the impacts of domestic and family violence on Aboriginal people.
“Early intervention is an important strategy and the services to help Aboriginal people and communities, including children, will be developed and delivered by and with Aboriginal people.
“We know the best way to close the gap is by Aboriginal people shaping and driving outcomes for Aboriginal people, in partnership with the NSW Government.”
NSW Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said:
“The NSW Government is committed to keeping families safe from the harm and horror of domestic and family violence.
“To make sure our action in this space is meaningful and sustainable, we must address domestic and family violence from every angle – this includes genuine preventative and early intervention action.
“It’s important to treat children and young people as victim-survivors in their own right and ensure that child-focused early support is provided.
“Through Safe and Strong, we are making sure that victim survivors of domestic and family violence and their children have the support they need to recover, heal and rebuild their lives.
Dhungutti woman Ashlee Donohue CEO of Mudgin-Gal Aboriginal Women’s Centres said:
“Mudgin-Gal means ‘Women’s Place’, which reflects our mission to provide a safe space for Aboriginal women and families.
“We are committed to preventing domestic and family violence in our communities through the Safe and Strong program.
“Using a family approach through early intervention, we will continue to deliver culturally safe and trauma-informed support services to families.
“By identifying early indicators of violence, we can support families who are at risk of family violence and stop the violence before it starts.”
Support Services
If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call the Police on Triple Zero / 000.
For confidential advice, support, and referrals, contact 1800 RESPECT or 13 YARN on 13 92 76.
This Sunday 27 October is NSW Grandparents Day – a day for families to come together to celebrate grandparents and those who play grandparent roles in our lives.
NSW Grandparents Day has been an initiative under the NSW Ageing Strategy since 2011 and is celebrated on the last Sunday of October.
Whether they’re nan and pop, grandad and grandma, nonna and nonno or mama and papa or simply a grand-friend, NSW Grandparents Day is an occasion to enjoy family fun, whether that’s a picnic, a trip to the park or simply reading a book together.
The NSW Government provides over $50,000 in funding to local libraries to deliver activities to help the community celebrate Grandparents Day this Friday through the weekend. Events include special storytime, digital programs and even musical performances. This year, 105 libraries across NSW will be running events for the whole family.
“NSW Grandparents Day recognises the diversity of grandparent relationships and the roles of older people in our community.
“It’s important to celebrate the contributions grandparents make to their families and communities.
“The bond between grandparents and grandchildren is special and should be celebrated year-round, but having a special day to recognise that connection and do an activity together is a great way of acknowledging their special and meaningful contributions to family and the community.
“If you can’t make it to a library for storytime, there are still plenty of other ways to thank grandparents such as having a morning tea together, sending them a hand-drawn card, or by calling them on the phone.”
Police are aware of the Tribesman Outlaw Motorcycle Club’s plans to host an event in Tāmaki Makaurau this weekend.
Counties Manukau East Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Rakana Cook says Police have a number of teams working hard to target and disrupt unlawful gang-related activity.
“We will be monitoring the event in Auckland this weekend and there will be an increased Police presence in the Counties Manukau area.
“Police will be actively ensuring this event is carried out in a safe manner for all involved, including the wider community.”
Inspector Cook says enforcement action will be taken where appropriate for any unsafe or dangerous behaviour.
“We continue to encourage the community to report any suspicious or illegal activity that may be taking place, we take these reports seriously and in confidence.”
If you are concerned about your safety in regards to the group, or witness illegal behaviour happening now, please call 111 immediately.
To report, or send in any footage of the group causing concern, we encourage you to file a report online at 105.police.govt.nz, call Police on 105, or report anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-nz.org
The Albanese Government and National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) are taking further action to reduce road trauma and save lives on Australia’s roads by funding 16 crucial industry-led projects through Round 9 of the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI).
The ninth round will see $3.9 million invested into the 16 road safety projects to deliver safety improvements across Australia’s heavy vehicle industry and help protect all road users. Successful applicants include:
Deakin University’sTruckwise Roadshowwhich aims to increase awareness of safety practises when working with heavy vehicles through the use of virtual reality.
St John Ambulance’sDefibs in Trucks Programwhich will equip 50 heavy vehicles with new, high quality Automated External Defibrillators (AED’s) and provide First Aid training to drivers to reduce deaths in regional, rural, and remote communities.
GM Cartage and Contracting’sAccelerating Ambitions Programwhich aims to increase awareness among young drivers of career opportunities within the trucking industry and provide innovative solutions to increase diversity in the industry.
The new initiatives are set to provide tangible improvements for the transport and logistics sector, supporting productivity, and making the road network safer by developing much-needed training, educational campaigns and innovative new technologies.
The Australian Government has invested more than $41 million across 169 HVSI projects since the program commenced in 2016. A list of successful applicants and more information about the HVSI is available here.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Regional Development, Anthony Chisholm:
“The trucking industry is the backbone of our nation’s economy and that’s why our government is continuing to invest in road safety programs that will keep truckies safe and keep Australia’s economy moving.
“These 16 successful projects provide solutions to challenges that we’re currently seeing throughout the industry, such as removing barriers for young people entering the sector, increasing awareness of how to drive safely around heavy vehicles and boosting safety within the industry itself.
“This includes the excellent initiative by St John Ambulance to equip 50 trucks with new, high-quality Automated External Defibrillators, and training truck drivers to provide first aid, reducing roadside deaths in regional, rural, and remote communities in the process.”
Quotes attributable to NHVR CEO, Sal Petroccitto OAM:
“The NHVR’s HVSI program continues to support safety initiatives that benefit the heavy vehicle industry and the wider community.
“Through this game-changing program, we have seen projects across the country deliver lasting and transformative results.
“We look forward to continuing to engage with safety-focused groups towards a shared goal of safer roads for all – and utilise their extensive knowledge and existing work to deliver future improvements to heavy vehicle safety.
“There is still plenty of work to do to reduce road trauma in Australia, which is why I am looking forward to seeing these 16 new initiatives get underway, and the positive impact they are sure to have on heavy vehicle safety right across the country.”
The World Bank Group on Thursday announced a set of actions and concrete goals that aim to boost economic opportunities for more women, taking the first steps toward implementing its Gender Strategy 2024-2030.
The targets, unveiled at a flagship event during the 2024 International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank Group Annual Meetings, will focus on use of broadband, social protection, and access to capital.
By 2030, the multilateral lender aims to enable 300 million more women to use broadband, unlocking essential services, financial services, education, and job opportunities; support 250 million women with social protection programs, focusing especially on the poorest and most vulnerable; and provide 80 million more women and women-led businesses with capital, addressing a critical constraint to entrepreneurship growth.
“When we increase women’s economic participation, it not only boosts the global economy, but also strengthens families and communities,” said Ajay Banga, president of the World Bank. “Through economic empowerment we are building a ladder out of poverty and extending hope and dignity as far as possible.”
Hana Brixi, the World Bank’s global director for gender, told Xinhua that “evidence is very clear that for countries to end poverty, they must unleash the potential of women.”
“When women participate in the economy, economic growth is stronger and productivity is higher, and overall results are better,” said Brixi.
According to a statement from the bank, there are many projects already underway, and efforts can be further scaled up to help meet these targets. For example, in Zambia, the World Bank is helping the government expand digital cash transfer programs to nearly 4 million women, while supporting almost 60,000 women with skills training, business capital, mentorships, and support to create savings groups.
In Ethiopia, a project supporting women-owned businesses with loans will help grow their profits by 30 percent and employment by 50 percent over five years.
Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
Funding Will Help Alstom & Partners Produce And Test Hybrid, Battery-Powered Trains At Southern Tier Facility
Schumer Urged U.S. Transportation Secretary – Which Brings Together Two Emerging Areas Of Manufacturing In The Southern Tier – To Fund Project Boosted By The Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law
Schumer: Fed $$ For Battery-Powered Rail Development Puts Southern Tier On Track To Lead In Developing Future Of This Industry!
U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced $15,982,500 for Steuben County IDA, in partnership with Norfolk Southern Railway, Binghamton University’s New Energy New York (NENY) consortium, and Alstom to develop new battery technology for more energy-efficient trains.
“This nearly $16 million in federal funding puts Steuben County IDA and its partners – including Alstom, a national leader in cutting-edge rail development – on track to develop new state-of-the-art hybrid locomotives that will enhance rail safety and improve climate resilience,” said Senator Schumer. “I’ve led the charge to establish the Southern Tier as a hub for battery manufacturing and research & development, and today’s investment will boost efforts to make sure the next generation of rail technology is stamped ‘Made in Upstate NY.’ I also fought to boost funding for the Department of Transportation’s rail infrastructure improvement program in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law and am thrilled that the program is continuing to deliver for NY.”
This project will help produce and test two hybrid, battery-powered trains at Alstom’s Southern Tier facility and aims to enhance safety and improve climate resilience. The federal funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) program, which Schumer fought to increase funding for in his Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law.
“Alstom is grateful to Senator Schumer for his support and leadership that has made New York’s Southern Tier the nation’s center of rail manufacturing excellence,” said Michael Keroullé, Alstom Americas President. “Together with our partners, Steuben County Industrial Development Agency, Binghamton University and Norfolk Southern, we will use this project to develop and test new battery and rail technologies to help advance efforts to decarbonize the freight sector.”
Steuben County Industrial Development Agency’s Federal Railroad Administration’s Hybrid Locomotive Project aims to develop new battery technology to produce and test two hybrid, battery-diesel locomotives at Alstom’s Kanona facility in Bath. The rebuilt locomotives will use batteries as the primary power source, enhancing safety and improving climate resilience.
“The Steuben County Industrial Development Agency is pleased to be partnering with Alstom and Norfolk Southern Railway on the development of the locomotive of the future at Alstom’s facility in Kanona, New York. The CRISI award will help advance a new clean diesel battery hybrid technology that builds off the region’s deep history in transportation manufacturing and innovation in battery and clean energy technology. The project aligns the region’s strengths to establish the County as a leader in clean tech manufacturing. We appreciate the strong support that Senator Schumer has shown towards the Steuben County IDA and his commitment to new battery technology in the Southern Tier, ” said James C. Johnson, Executive Director of Steuben County Industrial Development Agency.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, which Schumer crafted and led to passage in the Senate, included $5 billion over five years for the CRISI program. The program invests in various projects within the United States to improve railroad safety, efficiency, and reliability; mitigate congestion at both intercity passenger and freight rail chokepoints to support more efficient travel and goods movement; enhance multi-modal connections; and lead to new or substantially improved Intercity Passenger Rail Transportation corridors.
Schumer has long fought to secure federal investment to boost Binghamton and Upstate NY’s battery manufacturing and R&D. Most recently, Schumer announced the Binghamton University-led Upstate New York Energy Storage Engine won the esteemed U.S. National Science Foundation’s Regional “Innovation Engines” Competition (NSF Engines), which was created by his CHIPS & Science Law. Schumer said the Binghamton-led project was one of only ten projects across the country selected for this award which brings $15 million in federal funding, with up to $160 million total over the life of the program from the NSF to supercharge growth and cutting-edge research in battery development and manufacturing in Upstate NY.
“Our engineers have met with Alstom representatives and discussed future collaborations on this exciting project. Through our Watson College of Engineering and Applied Sciences and through all of our resources available through our New Energy New York and Upstate New York Energy Storage Engine programs, we stand ready to assist Alstom in any way we are able. Electrification of all forms of transportation– vehicles, planes and trains– is simply what has to happen in the US and we are pleased to play a role in this important transformation,” said Dean Atul Kelkar, Watson College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Binghamton University.
Schumer secured the prestigious tech hubs designation for Binghamton University’s New Energy New York (NENY) project, which he also created in the CHIPS & Science Act, accelerating the Southern Tier’s emergence as America’s next battery tech hub. Receiving that designation made $500,000 in funding through the CHIPS & Science Law, along with the potential for philanthropic and private sector investment, possible. Schumer designed the Tech Hubs program to strengthen a region’s capacity to commercialize, manufacture, and grow technology in key focus areas like batteries, and now, thanks to his efforts, Binghamton is spurring innovation and bringing the manufacturing of batteries back to America, all while supporting the economic resurgence of the Southern Tier.
In addition to the NSF Engine award and national recognition through the Tech Hubs program, Schumer’s American Rescue Plan created programs like the $1 billion Build Back Better Regional Challenge (BBBRC) that also supported Binghamton’s efforts. Schumer personally advocated for the selection of Binghamton University’s battery hub proposal for the BBBRC federal investment and in December 2021, Binghamton’s project was selected as a Phase 1 awardee out of over 500 applications from around the country to compete for a final award. In April 2022, Schumer personally visited the Southern Tier to double down on his advocacy, standing with Dr. Whittingham, to reiterate his support and urge federal leaders to select Binghamton as a final Regional Challenge awardee.
Finally, in September 2022, Schumer secured Binghamton’s spot as a final awardee, with a $63.7 million federal investment, one of the largest grants made in the competition, which was matched by $50 million in funding from New York State, to help make the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes a national hub for battery research and manufacturing. Additionally, Schumer brought Dr. Whittingham as his guest to last year’s State of the Union to highlight Binghamton’s national leadership in battery technology.
A copy of Schumer’s letter to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg can be found below:
Dear Secretary Buttigieg:
I am pleased to write on behalf of the Steuben County Industrial Development Agency’s application to the Federal Railroad Administration’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement (CRISI) Program. This collaborative effort between the Steuben County IDA, Alstom, Norfolk Southern Railway, and Binghamton University’s New Energy New York (NENY) consortium will result in the production and testing of two hybrid, battery-diesel locomotives. The project will demonstrate the efficiency, reliability, and commercial viability of technology that can be implemented to help accelerate the reduction of carbon emissions in the freight rail industry.
In particular, the project will convert two GP 38/40 locomotives into a battery-diesel hybrid design. These locomotives will be remanufactured at Alstom’s Kanona facility in Bath, NY, and will reuse existing steel frames to significantly reduce carbon emissions. The rebuilt locomotives will use batteries as the primary power source, increasing pulling capacity by approximately 50% and maximizing engine efficiency. In addition, the locomotive will be designed to allow for the diesel engine to be replaced with zero emission technology as it becomes commercially and technology viable. This is a first step toward developing important prototype technology that has the potential to greatly benefit both industry and the environment.
The Southern Tier is well positioned to help advance energy storage solutions for the freight rail industry given Binghamton University’s NENY. Following years of personal advocacy, NENY was designated a U.S. Economic Development Administration (U.S. EDA) Regional Technology and Innovation Hub, National Science Foundation (NSF) Regional Innovation Engine, and secured significant investment through the Build Back Better Regional Challenge. These federal awards recognize the region’s ability to lead the nation in battery innovation. Hence, the collaboration with experts at Binghamton University on battery-related subjects such as power density, modeling, and
optimization underscores the potential of this project.
I applaud the Steuben County Industrial Development Agency and the other partners for their foresight and sincerely hope the application is met with your approval. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact me or my grants coordinator at (202) 224-6542.
Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
Award For Livingston Avenue Bridge Will Help Replace 125 Year Old Structure & Civil War-Era Piers & Is Largest CRISI Award EVER – Federal Funding For Rail Infrastructure Improvements – In The History Of The Program
Schumer Relentlessly Advocated To Fund Bridge Placement Project, Calling On US Transportation Secretary & Amtrak CEO To Deliver Resources For Critical Infrastructure Improvement In Capital Region
Schumer: New Bridge Over The Hudson Will Ensure Service And Reliability Of Key Connection To Points West and North Of The Albany/Rensselaer Station, While Allowing For Nautical Traffic Along The River & Finally Establishing A Long Dreamt Of Pedestrian Connection
U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced $215,104,000 in federal funding for the replacement of the Livingston Avenue Rail Bridge, some of which dates back to the Civil War-era, spanning the Hudson River between Albany and Rensselaer. The federal funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program, which Schumer fought to increase funding for in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, and is the largest CRISI award announced in the history of the program.
“The Livingston Avenue Bridge provides the only viable passenger rail passage across the Hudson River, between Albany and Rensselaer, but it is approximately 125 years old and rests on piers from the Civil War-era and has deteriorated significantly, putting upstate passenger rail and rover traffic at risk. This whopping $215+ million in federal funding will help replace the bridge, improving service and reliability along the Empire Corridor, ensure river traffic flow, and provide a long desired pedestrian link as well,” said Senator Schumer. “It’s a good day to have the Senate Majority Leader represent the Capital Region. This bridge is the key link that allows passenger travel between New York City and points west of Rensselaer, across Upstate, and north to Montreal. I’ve fought tirelessly to deliver the resources necessary to make this project possible, from fighting to increase funding for the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Program in the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law and then personally calling Transportation Secretary Buttigieg to secure this grant. I’m proud that the program is delivering BIG – the largest award in the history of the program – for the Capital Region and all of Upstate today.”
The Livingston Avenue Bridge replacement project will replace the passenger rail bridge spanning the Hudson River between Albany and Rensselaer. The new bridge will allow simultaneous two-track operation and remove speed restrictions, improving service and reliability along the Empire Corridor while keeping pedestrians and cyclists safe.
Schumer has relentlessly advocated to secure federal funding for this project, personally calling U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg earlier this year and previously urging the CEO of Amtrak to work in partnership with the New York State Department of Transportation and CSX to address the future of the Livingston Avenue Bridge. Earlier this year, Governor Hochul announced $634.8 million in state funding to replace the bridge.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, which Schumer crafted and led to passage in the Senate, included $5 billion over five years for the CRISI program. The program invests in various projects within the United States to improve railroad safety, efficiency, and reliability; mitigate congestion at both intercity passenger and freight rail chokepoints to support more efficient travel and goods movement; enhance multi-modal connections; and lead to new or substantially improved Intercity Passenger Rail Transportation corridors.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Hongkong Post unveils new stamp issues for January to June 2025 Hongkong Post unveils new stamp issues for January to June 2025 ***************************************************************
Hongkong Post announced today (October 25) that a set of Hong Kong Definitive Stamps and five sets of special stamps on various themes will be issued from January to June 2025. Each stamp issue features its own ingenious design and distinctive style, making the stamps valuable collectables for philatelists and the public. To demonstrate the uniqueness and charm of Hong Kong as an international financial hub and an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange, Hongkong Post will issue a new set of definitive stamps themed “Hong Kong Landmarks” to introduce the city’s famous landmarks through a set of 16 stamps. The stamps showcase the stunning landscapes of Hong Kong and depict the city’s conservation achievements and important infrastructure developments. The new definitive stamps will be available in a full range of denominations, providing the public with convenience in combining the stamps for daily use when posting mail items. To support green initiatives and waste reduction, after the issue of the new definitive stamps, the 2014 Hong Kong Definitive Stamps themed “Hong Kong Global Geopark of China” will continue to be on sale while stocks last. To celebrate the Year of the Snake in 2025, Hongkong Post will release the second issue of the fifth Lunar New Year special stamp series. A set of four stamps and two stamp sheetlets feature various depictions of the Snake adorned with traditional Lunar New Year elements. The background is enhanced with festive colours and light gold plants, creating an atmosphere of celebration for the Year of the Snake. The $50 stamp sheetlet is a laser-cut paper art stamp sheetlet. The motif on the stamp sheetlet is laser-cut to create a delicate silhouette of a snake. The intricate design, combined with exquisite production techniques, makes this stamp sheetlet a perfect collectible for the Year of the Snake. In addition, Hongkong Post will also present the Lunar New Year Gold and Silver Stamp Sheetlet – Dragon/Snake at the same time, wishing everyone a blessed year ahead.This stamp sheetlet is the first issue in the third Lunar New Year Gold and Silver stamp issue series. The dragon and snake on the stamps are lavishly finished in silver foil and 22-carat gold foil respectively, adding to the festive ambience of the Lunar New Year. In addition, China Post, Hongkong Post and Macao Post and Telecommunications will jointly issue the “Year of the Snake” Joint Souvenir Pack. The Joint Souvenir Pack contains the souvenir sheet jointly issued by the three postal administrations, demonstrating that the three places share the same roots and cultural lineage. Relevant details and sales arrangements will be announced in due course. Public architecture is closely related to the daily lives of the people. With the completion of new public buildings one after another, it has witnessed the glorious history of the establishment and development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region while telling a living story to generations. Following the “Public Architecture in Hong Kong” special stamps issued in 2016, Hongkong Post will present a set of six stamps themed “Public Architecture in Hong Kong II”, featuring six distinctive public buildings. The Fuyun Xuan Collection is a private collection of Chinese snuff bottles established by late local collector Mr Christopher Sin. His wife, Mrs Josephine Sin, has donated 490 sets of snuff bottles to the Hong Kong Museum of Art, making these cultural gems accessible to a wider public. The small and delicate snuff bottles cover a wide range of craftsmanship, serving as miniature embodiments of Chinese art and craft history. Hongkong Post will release a set of six stamps and two stamp sheetlets themed “Hong Kong Museums Collection – Fuyun Xuan Collection of Chinese Snuff Bottles” to showcase some representative Chinese snuff bottles from the Fuyun Xuan Collection that manifest the exquisite craftsmanship and creativity of Chinese artisans despite their small size. Victoria Harbour is a world-famous natural harbour recognised as an icon of Hong Kong. Hongkong Post will issue a set of four stamps and a stamp sheetlet themed “Victoria Harbour Promenades”, which showcase enchanting views of Victoria Harbour by day and night, and highlight the achievements in harbourfront enhancement and public enjoyment of the harbourfront space, thereby deepening public appreciation for the Victoria Harbour Promenades. To enhance youth participation, the photo on the $10 stamp sheetlet was taken from the winning entry of the Student Group·Photo·Camera in the Victoria Harbourfront Photo and Short Video Competition. Inscribed on the first Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Hong Kong in 2017, paper crafting technique is a folk art with a long history that embodies the history and culture of different ethnic groups and carries significant social and cultural values. Hongkong Post will launch a special stamp issue on “Intangible Cultural Heritage – Paper Crafting Technique” to promote this intangible cultural heritage of Hong Kong, in the hope that this traditional folk art can be passed down through generations. Customers may place advance orders for the above new stamp products from today on Hongkong Post’s online shopping mall ShopThruPost (shopthrupost.hongkongpost.hk). Customers may also visit the Facebook page “郵票．郵趣@Hongkong Post Stamps” (www.facebook.com/HKPStamps) for more details. Customers who place orders by November 11 (Monday) will receive attractive gifts and bonus points. Further information about placing orders can be obtained from the Hongkong Post Stamps website or by calling the Hongkong Post Philatelic Bureau hotline at 2785 5711.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, completed his final day of visit in New York, the US, yesterday (October 24, New York time).
In the morning, Mr Chan held a breakfast meeting with representatives from several family offices, introducing Hong Kong’s unique advantages as a global leading hub for asset and wealth management, as well as the latest developments in this field. He welcomed them to leverage Hong Kong’s efficient and diverse capital markets, robust family office service network and ecosystem, and global business connections for wealth succession and developing family philanthropies, while exploring more investment opportunities in the Mainland and Asia.
Following that, Mr Chan visited the technology accelerator and venture capital platform Newlab, where he toured the startups they nurture and support. He also met with their staff in charge. Newlab focuses on incubating and accelerating deep tech and climate tech startups, facilitating their growth through public-private partnerships, investment matching, and promoting the commercialisation of research and development. The platform is considering expanding its business overseas and establishing more locations. Mr Chan mentioned that the Chief Executive recently announced the “Innovation and Technology Accelerator Pilot Scheme” in his Policy Address, aiming at attracting experienced professional startup service organisations, both local and overseas, to establish accelerator bases in Hong Kong to support the growth of startups. Currently, Hong Kong has over 4,200 startups, with a vibrant and active startup ecosystem, a full-chain fundraising market, and a listing system tailored for specialised tech companies. Furthermore, with ongoing deepening cooperation with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area cities in innovation and technology, he welcomed the platform to set up a base in Hong Kong and explore collaboration opportunities.
Mr Chan departed from New York in the afternoon, heading back to Hong Kong, and is expected to arrive tonight (October 25, Hong Kong time).
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Charles Ray Mackey, 42, of Parkersburg, pleaded guilty today to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 16, 2023, law enforcement officers conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Mackey in Parkersburg. Officers searched the vehicle following the traffic stop and found a German Sports Guns model Firefly .22-caliber semiautomatic handgun.
Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Mackey knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior felony convictions for non-aggravated robbery, assault during the commission of a felony upon a person 65 years of age or older, and conspiracy to commit non-aggravated robbery in Wood County Circuit Court on June 12, 2001.
Mackey is scheduled to be sentenced on February 3, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Parkersburg Police Department.
United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Lesley C. Shamblin and former Assistant United States Attorney Bill Longwell have prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-128.
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Henry Ford, 37, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to being a felon in possession of a firearm. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Donna M. Duncan, who is handling the case, stated that in April 2024, a search warrant was executed on Ford’s person and at Ford’s Erb Street residence. Investigators recovered a loaded handgun from Ford’s pocket. Subsequent investigation revealed the handgun was reported stolen from Georgia in September 2019. During the search of Erb’s residence, investigators recovered a second firearm and ammunition. That firearm was reported stolen in the City of Buffalo in March 2024. In October 2008, Ford was convicted of a felony in Erie County Court and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia.
Sentencing is scheduled for February 29, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. before Judge Sinatra.
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Tremaine Jacobs a/k/a Teeter a/k/a T, 51, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of attempt to possess, with intent to distribute, cocaine, was sentenced to serve 48 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler, who handled the case, stated that on May 16, 2020, law enforcement learned that a package containing $7,000 worth of cocaine had been sent to Jacobs. That same day, the Drug Enforcement Administration seized a package addressed to 542 Goodyear Avenue, a residence associated with Jacobs. The package contained 248 grams of cocaine. On May 30, 2020, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Buffalo Police Department Intelligence Unit executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence at 533 Goodyear Avenue, where investigators recovered approximately 16 ounces of suspected marijuana, approximately $10,507 in US currency, and jewelry.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, New York Field Division, and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia.
In the lead up to the inauguration of President Prabowo Subianto last Sunday, Indonesia established five “Vulnerable Area Buffer Infantry Battalions” in key regions across West Papua — a move described by Indonesian Army Chief-of-Staff Maruli Simanjuntak as a “strategic initiative” by the new leader.
The battalions are based in the Keerom, Sarmi, Boven Digoel, Merauke and Sorong regencies, and their aim is to “enhance security” in Papua, and also to strengthen Indonesia’s military presence in response to long-standing unrest and conflict, partly related to independence movements and local resistance.
According to Armed Forces chief General Agus Subiyanto, “the main goal of the new battalions is to assist the government in accelerating development and improving the prosperity of the Papuan people”.
However, this raises concerns about further militarisation and repression of a region already plagued by long-running violence and human rights abuses in the context of the movement for a free and independent West Papua.
Thousands of Indonesian soldiers have been stationed in areas impacted by violence, including Star Mountain, Nduga, Yahukimo, Maybrat, Intan Jaya, Puncak and Puncak Jaya.
As a result, the situation in West Papua is becoming increasingly difficult for indigenous people.
Extrajudicial killings in Papua go unreported or are only vaguely known about internationally. Those who are aware of these either disregard them or accept them as an “unavoidable consequence” of civil unrest in what Indonesia refers to as its most eastern provinces — the “troubled regions”.
Why do the United Nations, Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) and the international community stay silent?
While the Indonesian government frames this move as a strategy to enhance security and promote development, it risks exacerbating long-standing tensions in a region with deep-seated conflicts over autonomy and independence and the impacts of extractive industries and agribusiness on West Papuan people and their environment.
Exploitative land theft The Centre for Climate Crime and Climate Justice, in collaboration with various international and Indonesian human and environmental rights organisations, presented testimony at the public hearings of the Permanent Peoples’ Tribunal (PPT) at Queen Mary University of London, in June.
The tribunal heard testimonies relating to a range of violations by Indonesia. A key issue, highlighted was the theft of indigenous Papuan land by the Indonesian government and foreign corporations in connection to extractive industries such as mining, logging and palm oil plantations.
The appropriation of traditional lands without the consent of the Papuan people violates their right to land and self-determination, leading to environmental degradation, loss of livelihood, and displacement of Indigenous communities.
The tribunal’s judgment underscores how the influx of non-Papuan settlers and the Indonesian government’s policies have led to the marginalisation of Papuan culture and identity. The demographic shift due to transmigration programmes has significantly reduced the proportion of Indigenous Papuans in their own land.
Moreover, a rise in militarisation in West Papua has often led to heightened repression, with potential human rights violations, forced displacement and further marginalisation of the indigenous communities.
The decision to station additional military forces in West Papua, especially in conflict-prone areas like Nduga, Yahukimo and Intan Jaya, reflects a continuation of Indonesia’s militarised approach to governance in the region.
Indonesian security forces . . . “the main goal of the new battalions is to assist the government in accelerating development and improving the prosperity of the Papuan people,” says Armed Forces chief General Agus Subiyanto. Image: Antara
Security pact The Indonesia-Papua New Guinea Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA) was signed by the two countries in 2010 but only came into effect this year after the PNG Parliament ratified it in late February.
Indonesia ratified the pact in 2012.
As reported by Asia Pacific Report, PNG’s Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko and Indonesia’s ambassador to PNG, Andriana Supandy, said the DCA enabled an enhancement of military operations between the two countries, with a specific focus on strengthening patrols along the PNG-West Papua border.
This will have a significant impact on civilian communities in the areas of conflict and along the border. Indigenous people in particular, are facing the threat of military takeovers of their lands and traditional border lines.
Under the DCA, the joint militaries plan to employ technology, including military drones, to monitor and manage local residents’ every move along the border.
Human rights Prabowo, Defence Minister prior to being elected President, has a controversial track record on human rights — especially in the 1990s, during Indonesia’s occupation of East Timor.
His involvement in military operations in West Papua adds to fears that the new battalions may be used for oppressive measures, including crackdowns on dissent and pro-independence movements.
As indigenous communities continue to be marginalised, their calls for self-determination and independence may grow louder, risking further conflict in the region.
Without substantial changes in the Indonesian government’s approach to West Papua, including addressing human rights abuses and engaging in meaningful dialogue with indigenous leaders, the future of West Papuans remains uncertain and fraught with challenges.
With ongoing military operations often accused of targeting indigenous populations, the likelihood of further human rights violations, such as extrajudicial killings, arbitrary detentions, and forced displacement, remains high.
Displacement Military operations in West Papua frequently result in the displacement of indigenous Papuans, as they flee conflict zones.
The presence of more battalions could drive more communities from their homes, deepening the humanitarian crisis in the region. Indigenous peoples, who rely on their land for survival, face disruption of their traditional livelihoods and rising poverty.
The Indonesian government launched the Damai Cartenz military operation on April 5, 2018, and it is still in place in the conflict zones of Yahukimo, Pegunungan Bintang, Nduga and Intan Jaya.
Since then, according to a September 24 Human Rights Monitor update, more than 79,867 West Papuans remain internally displaced.
The displacement, killings, shootings, abuses, tortures and deaths are merely the tip of the iceberg of what truly occurs within the tightly-controlled military operational zones across West Papua, according to Benny Wenda, a UK-based leader of the United Liberation Movement of West Papua (ULMWP).
The international community, particularly the United Nations and the Pacific Islands Forum have been criticised for remaining largely silent on the matter. Responding to the August 31 PIF communique reaffirming its 2019 call for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights visit to West Papua, Wenda said:
“[N]ow is the time for Indonesia to finally let the world see what is happening in our land. They cannot hide their dirty secret any longer.”
Increased global attention and intervention is crucial in addressing the humanitarian crisis, preventing further escalations and supporting the rights and well-being of the West Papuans.
Without meaningful dialogue, the long-term consequences for the indigenous population may be severe, risking further violence and unrest in the region.
As Prabowo was sworn in, Wenda restated the ULMWP’s demand for an internationally-mediated referendum on independence, saying: “The continued violation of our self-determination is the root cause of the West Papua conflict.”
Ali Mirin is a West Papuan academic from the Kimyal tribe of the highlands bordering the Star Mountain region of Papua New Guinea. He is a contributor to Asia Pacific Report and Green Left in Australia.
Police have raided the suspected safehouse of one of the major syndicates involved in the sale of illicit tobacco in South Australia.
Operation Eclipse detectives converged on the Pooraka premises yesterday (Thursday 24 October) and discovered illicit tobacco including imported loose tobacco and more than 200 large boxes of imported cigarette cartons.
Besides the huge quantity of cigarettes, initial estimate indicates street value of up to $1M, detectives also found more than $10K US currency and $10K AUD currency concealed in walls of the premises.
A commercial cash counter was also found at the premises.
Operation Eclipse tactical commander Detective Chief Inspector Brett Featherby said police suspected the premises was one of several in the metropolitan area being used by the organised crime syndicates to facilitate their illegal activities.
He appealed to the neighbours of any industrial properties and warehouses who had noticed increased movements of vehicles or light trucks in recent months to contact police.
Similarly, any landlord who may have recently rented such a premises to any individual they may have suspicions around to contact police.
“We are aware that illicit tobacco is being transported from interstate in small trucks, such is the quantity being sold,’’ he said.
“I would ask any neighbour or landlord who has noticed this type of activity to contact police,’’ he said.
Members of the public who are purchasing illicit tobacco products are directly supporting the organised crime syndicates who are driving the current Operation Eclipse related crime series.
Anyone who has any information that may assist police in relation to Operation Eclipse offending including the sale and supply of illegal tobacco, is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 33 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au – you can remain anonymous.
Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy
October 24, 2024
WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders and 20 of their Senate colleagues in sending a letter to Stellantis—the giant automotive manufacturer responsible for common car brands like Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep. In their letter, the senators called on Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares to honor the collective bargaining agreement signed last year with the United Auto Workers (UAW) and the promises the company made to strengthen and expand good-paying union jobs in America.
“We are writing to express our growing concerns about the failure of Stellantis, under your leadership, to honor the commitments it made to the United Auto Workers (UAW) in last year’s collective bargaining agreement…” the senators wrote. “We urge Stellantis not to renege on the promises it made to American autoworkers and to provide details on the timelines for these investments.”
In the contract ratified last year, Stellantis committed to make nearly $19 billion in new investments and product commitments in the U.S., including:
Re-opening the plant in Belvidere, Illinois that was “indefinitely idled” last year;
Establishing a parts and customer care Mega Hub in Belvidere;
Continuing to manufacture the Dodge Durango in Detroit through 2025; and
Manufacturing the next generation Dodge Durango in Detroit starting in 2026.
Instead, Stellantis has taken actions that undermine the commitments made to the UAW and leave “behind thousands of American workers who built the company into the auto giant it is today,” the senators wrote. These actions may include moving the next generation Dodge Durango out of the U.S. and into “low-cost” countries like Mexico, as well as delaying planned investments to reopen and expand the Belvidere assembly plant.
This year, Stellantis has spent over $8 billion on stock buybacks and dividends to benefit its wealthy executives and stockholders. During the first six months of this year, Stellantis has generated over $6 billion in profits, making it one of the most profitable auto companies in the world. The company has also benefited from billions of dollars in financial assistance from American taxpayers and the federal government. In July, the Department of Energy announced Stellantis would receive nearly $335 million in federal dollars to support Belvidere Assembly Plant’s conversion to electric vehicle production.
“Last year, while blue collar auto workers in Belvidere were being laid off indefinitely, you were able to receive a 56 percent pay raise, boosting your total compensation to $39.5 million, which made you the highest paid executive among traditional auto companies,” the senators continued. “We believe that if Stellantis can afford to spend over $8 billion this year on stock buybacks and dividends, it can live up to the contractual commitments it made to the UAW. This is especially true given the billions of dollars in financial assistance American taxpayers have spent to support your company and the enormous sacrifices autoworkers have been forced to make over many decades.”
U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) also signed the letter.
The full letter is available HERE and below.
Dear Mr. Tavares:
We are writing to express our growing concerns about the failure of Stellantis, under your leadership, to honor the commitments it made to the United Auto Workers (UAW) in last year’s collective bargaining agreement.
In that contract, ratified by UAW members, Stellantis committed to “establish long-term stability and job security” for its workforce. The agreement includes nearly $19 billion in new investment and product commitments in the United States, including promises to:
Re-open the plant in Belvidere, Illinois that was “indefinitely idled” last year;
Establish a parts and customer care Mega Hub in Belvidere;
Continue to manufacture the Dodge Durango in Detroit through 2025; and
Manufacture the next generation Dodge Durango in Detroit starting in 2026.
We are deeply concerned that Stellantis is not keeping the promises it made to strengthen and expand good-paying union jobs in America.
Specifically, Stellantis is now delaying planned investments to reopen and expand the Belvidere assembly plant, leaving behind thousands of American workers who built the company into the auto giant it is today. We are also concerned with reporting that Stellantis is planning to move production of the next generation Dodge Durango out of the United States, after previously announcing layoffs that threaten the economic security and well-being of thousands of autoworkers. Moreover, Stellantis has stated publicly that it plans to source 80 percent of supply from “low-cost countries” like Mexico. By your own admission, Stellantis’s growth plan hinges on shifting “industrial production into cost competitive countries” like Mexico, where workers are making substandard wages. These actions violate the obligations Stellantis made to the UAW. We urge Stellantis not to renege on the promises it made to American autoworkers and to provide details on the timelines for these investments.
This year, Stellantis has spent over $8 billion on stock buybacks and dividends to benefit its wealthy executives and stockholders. Last year, while blue collar auto workers in Belvidere were being laid off indefinitely, you were able to receive a 56 percent pay raise boosting your total compensation to $39.5 million, which made you the highest paid executive among traditional auto companies. During the first six months of this year, Stellantis has generated over $6 billion in profits, making it one of the most profitable auto companies in the world.
We believe that if Stellantis can afford to spend over $8 billion this year on stock buybacks and dividends, it can live up to the contractual commitments it made to the UAW. This is especially true given the billions of dollars in financial assistance American taxpayers have spent to support your company and the enormous sacrifices autoworkers have been forced to make over many decades.
For example, the Department of Energy announced in July that nearly $335 million in federal dollars would be going to supporting Belvidere Assembly Plant’s conversion to electric vehicle production. With hundreds of millions of dollars of federal support going towards ensuring strong union jobs stay in the U.S., Stellantis must honor the promises it made to UAW workers and the Belvidere community.
We urge you to deliver on the commitments you made to the UAW in your 2023 national agreement without further delay.
Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture
25 October 2024
Who does this notice affect?
Stakeholders associated with the import of live cats and dogs (including assistance dogs) from the United Kingdom (UK) to Australian territory, including importers, pet transport agents, and official and government-approved veterinarians.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Harvest season of late rice begins in south China
Updated: October 25, 2024 09:06Xinhua
Actors perform at an event celebrating harvest in Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Oct. 23, 2024. Many places in Guangxi ushered in the harvest season of late rice. [Photo/Xinhua]Actors perform at an event celebrating harvest in Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Oct. 23, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 24, 2024 shows villagers harvesting rice in a field in Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]A drone photo shows actors performing at an event celebrating harvest in Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Oct. 23, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 24, 2024 shows rice fields in Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 24, 2024 shows a harvester working in a rice field in Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]Actors perform at an event celebrating harvest in Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Oct. 23, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 24, 2024 shows rice fields in Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]Farmers air rice in Jinjie Town of Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 24, 2024 shows rice fields in Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]An aerial drone photo shows actors performing at an event celebrating harvest in Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Oct. 23, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 24, 2024 shows the outdoor exhibition area of the 3rd International Summit on BDS (BeiDou Navigation Satellite System) applications in Zhuzhou, central China’s Hunan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
CHANGSHA, Oct. 24 — The 3rd International Summit on BDS (BeiDou Navigation Satellite System) applications kicked off Thursday in Zhuzhou, central China’s Hunan Province, as authorities aim to boost the industry by expanding applications and strengthening international cooperation.
The two-day summit has attracted more than 1,800 Chinese and international researchers, entrepreneurs and officials. Exhibitors have also set up booths to showcase BDS applications across various sectors, including smart logistics and intelligent transportation.
“BDS applications are rapidly expanding across key sectors of China’s national economy, with coverage rates surpassing 90 percent in areas such as transportation, energy, natural resources and emergency response,” said Xiang Libin, deputy director of the National Development and Reform Commission and an academician with the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
A bluebook on the development of the BeiDou industry was also released during the opening ceremony. “BDS services and related products have been exported to more than 130 countries, providing users with diversified choices and better application experience and promoting industrial development,” the bluebook stated.
The Chinese-made BDS was initiated in 1994. The construction of BDS-1 and BDS-2 was completed in 2000 and 2012, respectively. When BDS-3 was completed and put into service on July 31, 2020, China became the third country to have an independent global navigation satellite system.
According to the White Paper on the Development of China’s Satellite Navigation and Location Services Industry (2024), the total output value of China’s satellite navigation and location services industry reached 536.2 billion yuan (about 75.2 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023, an increase of 7.09 percent over the previous year.
Visitors experience driving devices of agricultural machinery at the 3rd International Summit on BDS (BeiDou Navigation Satellite System) applications in Zhuzhou, central China’s Hunan Province, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]A visitor learns about a risk detection device at the 3rd International Summit on BDS (BeiDou Navigation Satellite System) applications in Zhuzhou, central China’s Hunan Province, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]An exhibitor introduces a smart risk detection device to visitors at the 3rd International Summit on BDS (BeiDou Navigation Satellite System) applications in Zhuzhou, central China’s Hunan Province, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Wetland park in Hangzhou attracts tourists with beautiful autumn scenery
Updated: October 25, 2024 09:28Xinhua
An aerial drone photo shows a sightseeing boat at the Xixi National Wetland Park in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Oct. 24, 2024. The wetland park attracts many tourists with its beautiful autumn scenery. [Photo/Xinhua]Tourists take a sightseeing boat at the Xixi National Wetland Park in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Tourists visit Xixi National Wetland Park in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Tourists visit Xixi National Wetland Park in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]A girl poses for photos at the Xixi National Wetland Park in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Tourists take photos at the Xixi National Wetland Park in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Harvest season of cotton starts in Aksu, China’s Xinjiang
Updated: October 25, 2024 09:37Xinhua
A cotton picker operates in a field in Awat County of Aksu, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 24, 2024. The harvest season of cotton has started in Awat. Thanks to efforts in the construction of high-standard farmland, the entire cotton planting process, which ranges from sowing to harvesting, has been fully mechanized in the county. [Photo/Xinhua]A drone photo shows a cotton picker operating in a field in Awat County of Aksu, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]A drone photo shows a cotton picker operating in a field in Awat County of Aksu, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Farmers check the growth of cotton in a field in Awat County of Aksu, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]This photo shows a cotton field in Awat County of Aksu, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]A loader lifts a bundle of newly harvested cotton in a field in Awat County of Aksu, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]A cotton picker drops a bundle of newly harvested cotton in a field in Awat County of Aksu, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]This photo shows bundles of newly harvested cotton in a field in Awat County of Aksu, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
7th World Voice Expo kicks off in Hefei, E China
Updated: October 25, 2024 09:48Xinhua
Visitors experience multilingual full-screen simultaneous translation service provided by iFlytek at the 7th World Voice Expo in Hefei, east China’s Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2024. The 7th World Voice Expo and the iFlytek 1024 Global Developer Festival kicked off here on Thursday. The latest achievements and application of AI technology will be on display at the four-day event. [Photo/Xinhua]A humanoid robot demonstrates its walking capability at the 7th World Voice Expo in Hefei, east China’s Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Visitors watch a robot playing go at the 7th World Voice Expo in Hefei, east China’s Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]A boy tries an AI-driven pad for learning assistance at the 7th World Voice Expo in Hefei, east China’s Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]A humanoid robot takes selfies with a visitor at the 7th World Voice Expo in Hefei, east China’s Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Visitors learn about an AI-driven machine for air conditioner quality inspection displayed at the 7th World Voice Expo in Hefei, east China’s Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Visitors look at robotic dogs at the 7th World Voice Expo in Hefei, east China’s Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]A visitor takes pictures of an AI-driven coffee-making robot at the 7th World Voice Expo in Hefei, east China’s Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]A staff member (1st L) introduces an intelligent marking machine to visitors at the 7th World Voice Expo in Hefei, east China’s Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Visitors learn about a robot for evaluation of human-computer interaction inside intelligent cabins at the 7th World Voice Expo in Hefei, east China’s Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]A boy looks at a robotic arm creating traditional Chinese painting at the 7th World Voice Expo in Hefei, east China’s Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Visitors experience an integrated physical examination unit at the 7th World Voice Expo in Hefei, east China’s Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11)
UNION, NJ –Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11), Senate President Nicholas Scutari (LD-22), Senate Majority Leader Teresa Ruiz (LD-29), and the Union County Board of County Commissioners visited Kean University to underscore the importance of high-impact tutoring programs in combating pandemic-related learning loss, supporting New Jersey students, and expanding the education workforce.
Sherrill’s bipartisanExpanding Access to High-Impact Tutoring Actwould help to complement statewide tutoring initiatives championed by Scutari and Ruiz, like the High Impact Tutoring Grant program and the NJ Tutoring Corps, aimed at providing quality tutoring resources to school districts. Recently, Kean University has implemented an innovative tutoring program to help students stay on track in their studies while training aspiring teachers.
“New Jersey is home to the best public school system in the nation and, as a mom of four, I’m committed to ensuring that every student, in every school district and zip code, can reap the benefits of their Garden State education. That’s why I am proud to work with leaders like Senate President Scutari, Majority Leader Ruiz, and the incredible educators and student tutors at Kean University to expand access to high-quality tutoring for New Jerseyans of all ages and backgrounds. I will continue to work to get myExpanding Access to High-Impact Tutoring Actacross the finish line to bring back additional federal funding to enact tutoring programs that will help our children get ahead,”said Rep. Sherrill.
“Tutoring is more than an educational resource. It is an investment in our shared future. By helping students recover from pandemic-related learning loss, high-impact tutoring programs are closing achievement gaps and giving our children the tools they need to succeed in life. When our students thrive, our communities thrive,”said Senate President Nicholas Scutari.
“In New Jersey, over half of third graders are not reading at grade level, and the data is even more troubling for students of color, with 73.6% of Black and 72.5% of Latino third graders falling short. We are at a critical juncture and must have bold, innovative conversations about how we educate our children,”said Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz. “Academic success leads to better career outcomes and a higher quality of life. If we provide every child, regardless of ZIP code, with the opportunity to reach their potential, we can secure them a brighter future. We’ve made significant state-level investments, and collaboration with Congress will enhance these efforts. I thank Congresswoman Sherrill for her steadfast partnership as we expand high-impact tutoring, close achievement gaps, and strengthen the foundation for our students’ success.”
“As we take this significant step forward with the Managed Peer-to-Peer Tutoring initiative, I am proud to see our vision becoming a reality. This program, developed through strong partnerships between our Union County Commissioner Board with Kean University and key leaders like Senate President Nicholas Scutari, Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill and Senator Teresa Ruiz, is designed to address the learning challenges our students faced due to the pandemic,”said Union County Commissioner Sergio Granados. “By connecting students with their peers, we aim to create a supportive and effective learning environment that will not only help them recover but excel. Together, we are building a sustainable model for academic success and community connection in Union County.”
“As New Jersey’s urban research university, Kean is deeply committed to providing the critical support students need to thrive, from Pre-K through higher education,”said Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D.“We were honored to welcome Congresswoman Sherrill, along with state and county leaders, to our campus to discuss vital tutoring initiatives that will address post-pandemic learning loss. These initiatives are crucial to creating an equitable path to success for students of all backgrounds across New Jersey.”
Sherrill has long been a leader in supporting New Jersey’s education system and protecting our children and teens. As a former member of the House Education and Labor Committee, she fought hard to support the American Rescue Plan, which helped our students return to the classroom and is continuing to fund tutoring initiatives across New Jersey. Additionally, she is fighting to hold social media companies accountable with the Kids Online Safety Actand the Preventing Deepfakes of Intimate Images Act.
This photo taken on Oct. 19, 2024 with a mobile phone shows Vesa Niskanen (C), a Finnish part-time photographer, receiving a certificate for his work “Jingshan Park” being selected for display at the “Hello, Beijing” photography exhibition, in Beijing, capital of China. (Xinhua/Lyu Qiuping)
Standing in front of a giant photograph, George Doupas introduced his work “Happy Graduation” to a visitor. In the image, a group of university graduates in gowns throw their trencher caps into the sky, with the Temple of Heaven, one of Beijing’s architectural landmarks, in the background.
“I just love the hutongs (alleys), siheyuan (quadrangle courtyards) and ancient architecture in Beijing. Traditional and alive,” said Doupas, a Greek freelance photographer who lives in Beijing.
His works — two photos and one video clip — are part of a photography exhibition called “Hello, Beijing” held from Oct. 19 to 28 at the China Millennium Monument.
After attracting entries from Chinese and foreign professional photographers and enthusiasts both domestically and internationally, a panel of experts selected over 200 pieces for display. The works of six foreign photographers from Britain, France, Greece and other countries are among the exhibits.
The event is hosted by the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism.
Beijing, with a history of over 3,000 years, has served as the Chinese capital for 870 years, making it a treasure trove of cultural heritage.
In recent years, the city has strengthened its core functions as the national political center, cultural center, international exchange center and scientific innovation center, striving to build itself into a world-class harmonious and livable metropolis.
The photo exhibition consists of four sections highlighting the beauty of Beijing’s nature, history, humanity and innovation. It seeks to show the city’s progress and cultural heritage, the vibrancy of its daily life and the exchange of ideas between civilizations.
Doupas first visited Beijing in 2005 as a backpacker and settled here in 2009 after marrying a Chinese woman.
He said that one part of Beijing is full of historical sites like a living museum, while the other part is a new modern city, with some amazing architectural buildings, bridges, libraries and much more.
“I often feel that Beijing is a perfect example of how the old and new nicely blend together,” he said.
Liu Jingmin agrees with Doupas. At the exhibition, she is showing a photo of a pair of birds engaged in courtship on a lake at the Summer Palace. Originally an amateur wildlife photographer, she has also become a fan of capturing Beijing’s city views.
She said she often climbs the stairs onto the roofs of high-rise buildings to take panoramic photos near the city’s Central Axis.
“The contrast between the new modern buildings and ancient architecture, like the Temple of Heaven, is especially interesting and favored by photographers,” said Liu, 52.
At a session in India in late July, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization added the 700-year-old Beijing Central Axis, dubbed the “spine of the city’s culture,” to the World Heritage List.
The Beijing Central Axis, the best-preserved example of traditional central axis architecture in China, extends 7.8 km from Yongding Gate in the south to the Bell and Drum Towers in the north. Fifteen heritage components, including the Tian’anmen Square Complex, the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven, are located on or alongside the axis.
Vesa Niskanen, a Finnish part-time photographer, has his work “Jingshan Park” included in the exhibition. Jingshan Park is also along the Central Axis.
He said that in addition to the ancient architecture, he likes to take photos in Beijing’s busy streets.
“In this populated city, you can see people singing and dancing, and you can also see vendors selling stuff like crickets. The streets are so vibrant,” said Niskanen, the representative of a Finnish cultural association in Beijing.
Wang Yuanjing, who has retired from her civil service career, enjoys photography as a hobby. One of her displayed works is about the winter view of the Summer Palace, while the other captures the five-ring fireworks at the opening ceremony of the Beijing Winter Olympics.
“Over the years, Beijing has developed rapidly and the photos show the different sides of the city, ranging from an ancient cultural capital to a window for international exchanges,” said Wang, who also took her family to visit the exhibition.
Su Heling, a 63-year-old visitor from the Haidian District, was amazed by the images on display.
The retiree said he is also a photography fan, snapping pictures with his camera everywhere he goes.
“Through the exhibition, I hope I can learn more about photography skills, as well as the beauty of Beijing,” Su said.
In addition to the “Happy Graduation,” Doupas is also showing another piece, which was captured in a library. The library is converted from an outdated cinema, and the big screen can still be seen in the middle.
Doupas said the photo embodies the vitality of Beijing, as renovation has given life to many old buildings in the city, such as Shougang — the site of a former steel plant that has been transformed into a cultural venue for sightseeing and sports activities.
“As I walk in the streets of Beijing, there is always something interesting before my eyes. There is always something I want to capture with my camera,” Doupas said.
Shanghai continues to lead China’s coffee market with 9,553 coffee shops, officials announced during a news conference on Wednesday at the opening of the Lujiazui Coffee Festival in Pudong New Area.
Jin Wencheng, director of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs’ rural economy research center, released the Global Coffee Industry Development Trends Insight Report and related index at the event, highlighting that China’s annual coffee consumption reached 280,000 metric tons last year, with customers patronizing approximately 157,000 coffee shops nationwide.
Jointly launched by the China Media Group Shanghai Bureau — the financial program center of CMG — and the research center, the report further pointed out that the value of the coffee industry in China reached 265.4 billion yuan ($37.3 billion) in 2023, an increase of over 30 percent year-on-year. The number of coffee consumers in the country is close to 400 million.
“The Chinese coffee market has seen significant expansion, emerging as a standout in the global coffee industry,” Jin said, adding that the report and index are constructed based on three key dimensions: industry scale, development quality and industry resilience.
China’s coffee production increased from 114,000 tons in 2020 to 146,000 tons last year, the report noted. Yunnan province accounts for 98 percent of the national output, making it the primary coffee-producing region in China.
“Refinement and branding are leading the high-quality development of the domestic coffee industry in China,” said Jin, noting that the proportion of premium domestic coffee products has significantly increased, reaching 22.7 percent this year.
“Domestic coffee brands are rapidly emerging, and the fusion of coffee culture with tourism has become a new business model,” Jin added.
On a global scale, coffee production has shown a growth recovery, according to the report.
Last year, global coffee consumption reached 10.62 million tons, marking a 2.2 percent increase from the previous year, with a total daily consumption of 3 billion cups of coffee.
Apart from the emerging market in China, countries and regions such as Brazil, the Philippines and South Korea are also experiencing rapid growth in coffee consumption.
The bustling crowd of coffee enthusiasts at the Lujiazui Coffee Festival — the news conference venue — attests to the fervor of the coffee market.
Shanghai, which has more coffee shops than any city in China, launched the ninth edition of the coffee festival on Wednesday, which will run until Oct 27.
Taking place at Shanghai’s Lujiazui Central Greenland, the festival brings together over 260 selected brands, more than 100 boutique coffee shops and over 20 influencers from the industry hailing from over 70 cities worldwide. It serves as a platform for the exchange of creative ideas and the exhibition of the latest coffee-related products.
Manhattan Coffee Roasters from Rotterdam, Netherlands; Ghostbird Coffee Roastery from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; and Proud Mary Coffee Roasters from Melbourne, Australia, are among the 12 international specialty coffee brands that are making their domestic debut at the festival.
Since its inception in 2016, the festival has become a benchmark cultural experience in the coffee industry in China, drawing the cumulative participation of over 850,000 people.
“As the brand influence of the Lujiazui Coffee Festival continues to grow, it will not only bring more global coffee flavors to Pudong, but also explore new pathways for Chinese domestic coffee to enter the international market,” said Chen Bai, director of the festival.
Waiheke is about to have a plan in place for the future management of the popular Rangihoua Reserve and Onetangi Sports Park.
The Waiheke Local Board approved the adoption of the long-awaited draft Rangihoua Reserve and Onetangi Sports Park Management Plan 2024 at a meeting on 10 October 2024.
As well as being Waiheke’s largest centre for sport and recreational facilities, the park includes important ecological waterways and wetlands.
The park and its surrounding landscape have always been a significant cultural site for mana whenua known as Te Rangihoua that includes the maunga (mountain) pā site Te Pūtiki o Kahumatamomoe, and the Rangihoua awa (stream) and their histories and aspirations are captured in the new plan.
The plan, which has been in development since 2018, has been informed by extensive research and engagement with mana whenua, the local community and key stakeholders to provide a framework for “managing the use, enjoyment, maintenance, protection, preservation and, to the extent that resources permit and as appropriate, the development of part of” the 60-hectare park situated southeast of Waiheke’s Ostend suburb.
“It’s been a long road to get to this point, but we are really pleased to have this plan in place to make sure this important area of Waiheke will be managed well for future generations. Huge thanks to the many stakeholders involved whose perseverance and amazing mahi helped create this plan,” says Local Board Chair Cath Handley
The board is now developing a programme to allocate funds to initiatives in the plan for the 2025/26 financial year.
You can read the draft Rangihoua Reserve and Onetangi Sports Park Management Plan 2024 here.
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