The African Development Bank Group’s Board of Directors has approved an $8 million concessional loan to support the construction of a 25MW Solar Photovoltaic power plant in Zambia. The financing for the Ilute Plant will be sourced from the Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA), a multi-donor Special Fund managed by the Bank. Ilute is expected to advance Zambia’s sustainable development and help the country unlock its renewable energy potential.
“We are delighted to support the Ilute Solar PV project – which will be the first project to use Africa GreenCo as an intermediate off-taker. SEFA’s support has been instrumental in bridging the financing gap and will pave the way for future projects that contribute to Southern Africa’s energy transition,” said Dr Daniel Schroth, African Development Bank Director for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency.
Anton-Louis Olivier, CEO of Serengeti Energy, acknowledged SEFA’s support. He said, “We appreciate the support from the African Development Bank Group and SEFA in helping us move the Ilute 25MW Solar PV project forward. This loan addresses the financial challenges we’ve faced due to the pandemic and rising costs. The Ilute project is a testament to innovative collaboration and serves as a pioneering model for future renewable energy initiatives in Zambia as well as the wider region.” Serengeti Energy is a leading renewable independent power producer specialising in the development, construction, and operation of utility-scale renewable energy plants tailored to the needs of both public and private off-takers.
ABOUT SEFA
SEFA is a multi-donor Special Fund that provides catalytic finance to unlock private sector investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency. SEFA offers technical assistance and concessional finance instruments to remove market barriers, build a more robust pipeline of projects and improve the risk-return profile of individual investments. The Fund’s overarching goal is to contribute to universal access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy services for all in Africa, in line with the New Deal on Energy for Africa and Sustainable Development Goal 7.
The Little Ice Age is a period from around 1300 to 1850, when global temperatures dropped significantly. While the exact cause of this phenonemon is unknown, theories range from volcanic eruptions to European colonization of the Americas.
Our research into England’s Little Ice Age during the 16th and 17th centuries has unearthed more than 1,800 unique pieces of weather observations, hidden in documents like diaries and letters. Local and national chronicles embedded reports of extreme weather among accounts of war and monarchs. Extreme weather pamphlets publicized tragic effects of earthquakes, floods and storms, much like our media today.
Our team has created an open access database called the Weather Extremes in England’s Little Ice Age 1500-1700. This database visually maps both extreme and temperate weather in the age of Shakespeare and can help to advance modern climate science.
More fundamentally, these experiential accounts provide a fascinating window into a world not too different from our own. While the causes of the climate change of today are well known, and likely different from that of the Little Ice Age, the experiences of living through both events are at times eerily similar. Understanding these past experiences can help us to better understand our present day and to develop more robust policies in the here and now.
Frost fairs on the River Thames have become a familiar cultural reference point for England’s Little Ice Age. Our data shows that the river froze over a mere four times in the 16th century — in 1516, 1537, 1564 and 1590 — and there were only intermittent observations of unusual cold or snow.
The 17th century was markedly different. Reports of cold came thick and fast, with the exception of a few years between 1620 and 1643.
Title page from The Great Frost: ‘Cold doings in London, except it be at the lotterie. With newes out of the country. A familiar talk betwene a country-man and a citizen touching this terrible frost and the great lotterie, and the effects of them.’ Printed at London: For Henry Gosson, 1608. Attributed to Thomas Dekker. (Houghton Library, Harvard University)
This was the century of frost fairs on the Thames. With the first 17th century fair in 1608, these events were celebrated by English playwright Thomas Dekker in his pamphlet The Great Frost.
Drinking, barbering and games were on display as London’s citizens marvelled at the novelty of entertainment on the ice. The freezes were frequent enough to become an institution.
By the winter of 1683-1684, the frost fair had become a city within a city, expanding across the ice with avenues of booths, bear and bull-baiting rings and boats-turned-chariots pulled by enterprising watermen across the now solid river.
But these iconic events were just one aspect of Little Ice Age weather in England.
Storms and floods
In the 16th century, severe rain storms were far more common than cold snaps.
On Oct. 5, 1570, “a terrible tempest of wind and raine” caused flooding from Lincolnshire to London as rivers overflowed their banks, drowning towns, fields, crops and cattle. Storm surges inundated the coastline.
Four years later, towns from Newport to St. Ives suffered “raging floods,” and a “giant sea fish” (whale) washed up in the Thames from a massive surge up river. In May 1594, “soddane showres of haile [and] raine” destroyed houses, iron mills, crops and cattle in Sussex and Surrey. September of that year saw another deluge, with bridges taken down in Cambridge and Ware.
This all changed in the 17th century, following the Great Flood that struck Bristol and surrounding areas in 1607. Extreme cold spells then became more frequent, and major storm events were less common. The winter of 1612-1613 saw a number of violent storms recorded in the pamphlet Wonders of this Windie Winter, with livestock lost from Newcastle to Dover and bodies from shipwrecks washing aground in the Thames.
In the next 40 years, though, only the years of 1626 and 1637 contain reports of significant storm events causing loss of life or livestock. Instead of extreme storms, this century was marked more by regular but moderate rainfall, consistent with colder, wetter conditions normally associated with the Little Ice Age.
Fire and heat
If colder, wetter weather was a new normal for 17th century Britons, the hot, dry spring of 1666 caught Londoners unprepared. The Great Fire of London was one of the worst disasters of the age, and diarist John Evelyn recounts that “the heate … had even ignited the aire,” a comment reminiscent of descriptions of wildfire spread today.
Yet periods of extreme heat were surprisingly frequent during the previous century, especially in the England that Shakespeare knew. More than a dozen droughts were recorded across England in the 16th century, usually broken by extreme storms or floods. It never rained, it seems, but it poured. The Thames dried up completely in 1592.
As Thomas Short wrote in his Chronological History of English Weather, “an excessive drought, great death of cattle from want of water; springs and brooks were dried up; horsemen could ride the Thames.” Locals went into the mud to retrieve items long lost to the river.
Shakespeare’s hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon was nearly destroyed by fire twice, in 1594 and 1595, due to severe drought and heat. The warning signs were there for Londoners to beware of hot spells in the next century, but frost fairs and wet weather may have bred complacency.
Lessons for today
The Weather Extremes in England’s Little Ice Age 1500-1700 database is revealing a picture of the world of Shakespeare and early modern England that upends a simplified picture of the Little Ice Age. More than just a world of frosts and freezes, the English Little Ice Age could be known as well as an age of fire and rain.
The documents in our database are the reports of people who lived in a climatically changing world and saw its shifts firsthand. It shows how important weather crowd-sourcing can be, even centuries later. Contemporary projects like the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network, or the Northern Tornadoes Project, continue in the spirit of this work.
But our data could also provide insight into today’s extreme weather. Historical flooding patterns might provide reference points to better manage and understand the unstable weather experienced in the British Isles today.
Madeline Bassnett has received funding from SSHRC for the Weather Extremes in England’s Little Ice Age 1500-1700 project.
Laurie Johnson does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Aaron Bean Florida (4th District)
WASHINGTON—Today, in response to resident and industry complaints regarding late or lost mail, U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04) demanded USPS Inspector General Tammy Hull and the Office of Inspector General (OIG) audit and investigate the Regional Processing and Distribution Center (RPDC) in Jacksonville, FL.
Congressman Bean was joined by Buddy Carter (GA-01), Mike Waltz (FL-06), John Rutherford (FL-05), and Kat Cammack (FL-03) in requesting specific answers and solutions to the months-long delays and mail delivery inconsistences families, seniors, and businesses continue to face in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia.
Upon issuance of the letter, Congressman Bean said, “Since January, I’ve had many constituents reach out with concerns regarding delivery delays and lost mail. We all rely on the USPS for timely delivery of mail and packages, and I understand it’s not just a service, it’s a critical resource. That’s why I’m pushing the USPS Inspector General for answers and solutions, not excuses.”
In the letter, the lawmakers wrote: “As members of Congress, it is our responsibility to conduct oversight and ensure the USPS is serving the people effectively. Therefore, we request the USPS Office of Inspector General to thoroughly audit and investigate the postal situation in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia. Specifically, we request to know the reason for the delays, how the transition to the Jacksonville RPDC has been implemented, and actions that can be taken to restore confidence in the postal services in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia.”
Read the full letter to USPS Inspector General Hull HERE.
BACKGROUND
Congressman Bean has repeatedly implored the USPS to address ongoing performance issues. Most recently, Congressman Bean joined his colleagues in calling for transparency and operational improvements at the Jacksonville distribution center. Click HERE to view the letter.
Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
10.29.24
$82M Goes to WA Ports for Clean Infrastructure Investments to Increase Capacity, Bolster Competitiveness, & Create New Jobs
$63.8M to Port of Anacortes & $9.4M to Port of Port Angeles, plus planning grants for Anacortes, Seattle, Bellingham, Seaport Alliance from EPA’s new Clean Ports Program
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (D, WA-02), and U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer (D, WA-06) announced six grants to help ports in the State of Washington invest in critical infrastructure upgrades. The competitive grants were awarded by the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Ports Program, one of many important infrastructure upgrades and carbon reduction initiatives that the lawmakers supported in the historic Inflation Reduction Act.
The Port of Anacortes is receiving $63.8 million to fund a major conversion of port equipment to battery electric powerand $1.3 million for additional planning work.
“This major federal investment will enable the Port of Anacortes to electrify its operations and bring in much-needed new cargo handling equipment that will help the Port expand. Boosting the Port’s efficiency and capacity will create 50 new high-paying jobs, introduce more apprenticeships, and maintain payrolls for over 1,000 locals currently employed by the Port and its tenants,” said Sen. Cantwell.
“The Port of Anacortes is an important part of Washington state’s maritime infrastructure and a huge mover for Skagit County’s economy—these federal resources will help ensure the Port can more quickly implement its zero-emissions strategy while creating local jobs,” said Sen. Murray. “I was proud to help pass the Inflation Reduction Act and help secure a landmark investment in building a stronger, clean energy economy—it’s good to see federal dollars come back to Anacortes. As Senate Appropriations Chair, I will continue to fight for investments that fuel our clean energy transition while strengthening our economy.”
“You cannot have a big-league economy with little league infrastructure,” said Rep. Larsen, the lead Democrat on the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee. “Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, the Port of Anacortes has the funding it needs to electrify cargo handling operations on the Guemes Channel waterfront and reduce emissions. Congress must continue to make bold, long-term investments in Northwest Washington ports to create more jobs and build a cleaner and greener future.”
With the funds, the Port of Anacortes will buy a range of new battery electric equipment including five tow tractors, 16 forklifts, six marine travel lifts/cranes, five boom/aerial lifts, two material handlers, and seven vessels. This will improve community engagement, grow workforce opportunities, and increase access to quality jobs, while lowering local air pollution. The Port is contributing $10,312,006 towards the project.
The Port of Port Angeles is receiving $9.4 million to purchase all-electric, zero emissions cargo handling equipment and enhance shore power offerings.
“The Port of Port Angeles links the forest products industry with customers across the globe. Investing in new shore power and electric equipment will reduce costs for the Port, its tenants, and forest products businesses that support more than 1,500 jobs on the Olympic Peninsula,” said Sen. Cantwell.
“From replacing equipment fueled by diesel to building out new charging and grid infrastructure—this federal funding will help Port Angeles reduce emissions, create more jobs, and compete in the 21st century,” said Sen. Murray. “I was proud to help pass the Inflation Reduction Act and help secure a landmark investment in building a stronger, clean energy economy—it’s good to see federal dollars come back to the Olympic Peninsula. As Senate Appropriations Chair, I will continue to fight for investments that fuel our clean energy transition while strengthening our economy.”
“Our ports are amazing engines of economic growth and opportunity,” said Rep. Kilmer. “That’s why this investment from the EPA is such a big deal, especially for folks on the Olympic Peninsula. Thanks to funding from the Inflation Reduction Act, we are taking major steps toward improved safety, decreased costs, and reduced emissions at the Port of Port Angeles, without the costs falling solely on the backs of local taxpayers. As a Port Angeles native, I’m proud to have supported this important project and look forward to a bright future for the port and for workers in our community.”
With the funds, the Port of Port Angeles will buy a variety of new zero emissions equipment including a reachstacker for handling heavy cargo, a conveyor for handling bulk cargo, and clean forklifts for handling lighter cargo. This investment will replace existing diesel equipment. The Port will also enhance their shore power offerings, upgrading the electrical service cabinets and buying mobile shore power cable management units.
In addition, the EPA awarded three planning grants under the Clean Ports Program. The Northwest Seaport Alliance received $3 million, the Port of Seattle received $2.9 million, and the Port of Bellingham received $1.5 million.
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 created and provided $3 billion in funding for the Clean Ports Program to jumpstart investments in zero-emission port equipment and infrastructure, as well as improve climate and air quality planning at U.S. ports. The goals of the Clean Ports Program are to:
Build a foundation for the port sector to transition over time to fully zero-emissions operations, positioning ports to serve as a catalyst for transformational change across the freight sector.
Reduce diesel pollution (criteria pollutants, GHGs, and air toxics) in near-port communities.
Help ensure that meaningful community engagement and emissions reduction planning are port industry standard practices.
Sen. Cantwell advocated for creation of EPA’s Clean Ports Program as part of the Inflation Reduction Act, and has consistently championed investments in Washington’s ports. Along with securing the Water Resources Development Act in the 2023 NDAA, Sen. Cantwell also successfully fought to include the 2019 legislation that reauthorized U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration’s Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP), which she co-authored. As Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Sen. Cantwell worked to include a record $2.25 billion for the PIDP in the Biden-Harris Infrastructure Law. In September 2021, Sen. Cantwell led a letter calling to boost funding for the PIDP program to help address the ongoing issues with port congestion. Subsequently, in 2022, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration’s (MARAD) awarded $71.4 million in PIDP funding to five ports in Washington state.
As then Assistant Majority Leader, Sen. Murray helped ensure passage of the Inflation Reduction Act and worked to help establish EPA’s Clean Ports Program. As Senate Appropriations Chair, in Fiscal Year 2024, Sen. Murray secured $9.29 billion in essential funding for EPA’s critical responsibilities to protect our environment and public health. Under tough fiscal constraints, Sen. Murray provided modest increases across all EPA programs in the face of drastic cuts proposed by House Republicans—ensuring EPA could keep researchers, scientists, and other specialists on the job to safeguard our environment and make today’s awards possible.
Sen. Murray has been a champion of Washington state’s ports, from making sure ports were eligible for the RAISE (originally TIGER) grant program she created as Chair of the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee in 2009. The RAISE program Sen. Murray established marked the first time port authorities were eligible to apply for competitive federal grants. As a senior member—and now Chair—of the appropriations committee, Sen. Murray helped create and fund PIDP; the competitive grant program was established in the Fiscal Year 2019 transportation appropriations bill, which was enacted in February 2019. Since then, Sen. Murray has played a key role in securing more than $1.2 billion funding for PIDP in annual appropriations bills since its inception. Sen. Murray also fought to make sure the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law included $2.25 billion over five years for PIDP.
Source: United States Senator for Colorado Michael Bennet
Photos from Press ConferenceHERE
Denver — Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper, U.S. Representatives Joe Neguse and Brittany Pettersen, and Governor Jared Polis welcomed over $129.5 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for four Colorado rail projects. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), Colorado State University (CSU) Pueblo, San Luis Central Railroad, and OmniTRAX will all receive funding as part of DOT’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure & Safety Improvements Grant Program, funded in part through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The leaders held a press conference on Tuesday in Westminster, Colorado, to celebrate this announcement.
“Colorado’s railways are vital to connect our communities and get resources to markets across the country. That’s why I ensured the U.S. Department of Transportation understood how critical this funding is for our state’s transportation infrastructure,” said Bennet. “I’m glad to have helped secure these investments in our railways’ safety, efficiency, and reliability across the state. ”
“From freight in the San Luis Valley to passengers on the Front Range and beyond with CSU Pueblo’s research, rail isn’t just a part of our past, it’s a big part of our future, too,” said Hickenlooper. “That’s the case we made to Secretary Buttigieg for this funding and this is just the start.”
“After years of working to secure federal support for the Front Range Passenger Rail Project, I am excited to see the Department of Transportation heed our calls and commit to modernizing Colorado’s passenger rail system—not just for communities along the Front Range but for residents throughout the entire state. This is a once-in-a-generation investment in our passenger rail infrastructure, creating countless new opportunities for communities to connect, grow, and thrive—and we will continue to work together to ensure this momentum leads to lasting benefits for all Coloradans,” said Neguse.
“Today, I am incredibly grateful to see this federal funding coming to Colorado to strengthen our railway systems, enhance safety, and modernize our infrastructure,” said Pettersen. “After a train derailment in Boulder injured workers and put our communities at risk, I supported funding to reinforce public safety and restore trust in Colorado’s rail infrastructure. I’m pleased to see these federal dollars coming to our state to help ensure we have safe, reliable infrastructure for generations to come.”
“Today’s grant will make freight rail traffic in some of our busiest growing communities safer quickly while providing critical building blocks for Passenger Rail. This major funding will help achieve important priorities like complying with longstanding federal standards and improving the safety of rail crossings, which can be the sites of dangerous incidents. With more than $66 million in federal support from the Biden-Harris administration, the future of Colorado’s rail network is a clear priority for the federal government, as it should be. We thank Senators Hickenlooper and Bennet, Congressman Neguse and Congresswoman Pettersen, and our communities for their support of this important project,” said Polis.
This funding includes:
$66.4 million for CDOT to modernize Front Range rail. This investment will help CDOT design, install, and test train operation and safety improvements, including Positive Train Control (PTC) and railroad crossings;
$50.5 million for OmniTRAX transportation safety and employment. This investment will help design and construct replacement railroad ties across Omnitrax short lines;
$11.6 million for CSU Pueblo to research renewable energy for rail vehicles. This investment will aid research and development of alternative fuel rail transportation, including safety experiments on the use of CH2/CNG-powered rail cars at the facility; and
$1 million for San Luis Central Railroad to replace wooden ties. This investment will help replace deteriorated cross and switch ties to ensure safety along the SLC corridor.
“Southern Colorado often represents a hard-working spirit leveraging the opportunity of innovation. This Department of Transportation CRISI grant emboldens that spirit, enabling CSU Pueblo, in partnership with the Southern Colorado Transportation Technology Center (SCITT), to contribute to the future of rail transportation through critical safety research in hydrogen and natural gas technologies. I am particularly proud of how this project will partner with our Engineering program at CSU Pueblo, utilizing the expertise here to create new pathways for our students and local workforce. This grant is more than research – it’s a valuable investment into Southern Colorado,” said Armando Valdez, President, CSU Pueblo.
“TIES2 will be transformative for the communities served by Great Western Railway of Colorado and the regions served by OmniTRAX railroads in Georgia, Alabama, and Washington state,” said David Arganbright, Senior Vice President, OmniTRAX. “OmniTRAX is proud to call Colorado home, and we are tremendously appreciative of all the work that Sen. Hickenlooper has done in Congress to champion Colorado’s railways and deliver the critical infrastructure investments that strengthen our nation’s supply chains.”
Earlier this year, Bennet, Hickenlooper, Neguse and Pettersen urged the DOT to fund CDOT’s project along the Front Range.
Source: United States Senator for Colorado Michael Bennet
Denver — Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper, alongside 258 members of Congress, submitted an amicus brief to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit calling on the court to require Medicare-funded hospitals to provide life-saving care that may include abortion care. The court is considering Moyle v. United States and Idaho v. United States which concern the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), a federal law that requires hospitals that receive Medicare funding to provide necessary “stabilizing treatment” to patients experiencing medical emergencies, which can include abortion care.
““[T]he 99th Congress passed EMTALA to ensure that every person who visits a Medicare-funded hospital with an ‘emergency medical condition’ is offered stabilizing treatment,” wrote Bennet, Hickenlooper, and the lawmakers.
After the Dobbs v. Jackson decision in 2022, Idaho passed a law making it a felony for a doctor to terminate a patient’s pregnancy unless it is “necessary” to prevent the patient’s death. The U.S. Department of Justice sued Idaho, arguing that the state’s law is preempted by EMTALA in those circumstances in which abortion may not be necessary to prevent imminent death, but still constitutes the necessary stabilizing treatment for a patient’s emergency medical condition. The district court agreed; however, Idaho appealed that ruling to the Supreme Court.
In their brief, the lawmakers ask the Ninth Circuit to uphold the district court’s ruling. They argue that the congressional intent, text, and history of EMTALA make clear that covered hospitals must provide abortion care when it’s necessary to stabilize a patient’s emergency medical condition, and that EMTALA preempts Idaho’s abortion ban in emergency situations that present a serious threat to a patient’s health.
“Congress chose broad language for that mandate, requiring hospitals that participate in the Medicare program to provide ‘such treatment as may be required to stabilize the medical condition.’… That text—untouched by Congress for the past three decades—makes clear that in situations in which a doctor determines that abortion constitutes the ‘[n]ecessary stabilizing treatment’ for a pregnant patient, federal law requires the hospital to offer it,” continued the lawmakers.
In March, Bennet and 257 of his colleagues filed an amicus brief asking the U.S. Supreme Court to affirm the district court decision. In June, the Supreme Court sent the case back to the Ninth Circuit Court and reinstated the district court’s injunction.
The full text of the amicus brief is available HERE.
Members of the Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific) (FDU(P)) have returned to Victoria, B.C., after participating in Multinational Mine Warfare Exercise 24 (MN-MIWEX 24), hosted by the Republic of Korea Navy from October 14-25, 2024, off the coast of Busan, South Korea.
October 29, 2024 – Esquimalt, B.C. – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
Members of the Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific) (FDU(P)) have returned to Victoria, B.C., after participating in Multinational Mine Warfare Exercise 24 (MN-MIWEX 24), hosted by the Republic of Korea Navy from October 14-25, 2024, off the coast of Busan, South Korea.
Eleven members from FDU(P), alongside two support staff, participated in the exercise aboard the Republic of Korea Ship (ROKS) Cheon Wang Bong, focusing on mine countermeasures and promoting collective deterrence. During the exercise, the teams conducted drills aimed at detecting and neutralizing mines to establish safe navigation routes, enhancing interoperability among participating nations and improving understanding of the mine warfare environment in the Korean theatre of operations.
Nations participating alongside FDU(P) on ROKS Cheon Wang Bong included the United States Navy, Royal Australian Navy, and the Philippine Navy. In total, 19 nations took part in MN-MIWEX 24, with dive teams operating on multiple ships throughout. The exercise also included a mine countermeasures symposium held prior to sailing.
This year, MN-MIWEX 24 was conducted under Operation HORIZON, Canada’s mission to enhance peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. This initiative expands the Royal Canadian Navy’s (RCN) opportunities to collaborate closely with partners and allies in the region, allowing Canada to play a more active role in strengthening regional security.
Media Relations Department of National Defence Phone: 613-904-3333 Email:mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca
Freshwater Ranger Suze Harris is based in Hokitika and studies migratory galaxiids on the West Coast. Here she explains a summary of what whitebait grow up into, and what habitats you can find them in.
There are 5 whitebait species in the Galaxiidae family (excluding smelt/cucumber fish, which are not a true galaxiid). Each have their own habitat preferences and unique behaviours! They do not have scales and tend to be nocturnal to feed on aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates while avoiding predation by bigger fish.
The most famous of the whitebait species, making up 90% of any whitebait fritter (depending on the river). Highly fecund (produce a lot of eggs) and live close to the coast. They are weak swimmers and cannot climb, so they stick to slow-moving waters such as wetlands, swamps and lowland streams. Their greatest threats are fish passage barriers (such as overhanging, perched culverts or structures with high velocities running through them), habitat loss, and introduced species. Īnanga spawn in autumn on spring tides on the sides of creeks and rivers. Generally, they live 1-2 years, some spawn twice. Like the rest of the whitebait species, they can live a lot longer in captivity.
Giants are the largest of the whitebait species, with the record length being 450mm, and were the first Galaxiidae to be described in 1789. The golden spots are very distinctive, and its colour pattern inspired the generic name of Galaxias to the whitebait family – referring to the profusion of stars in the galaxy. They are territorial in nature, usually lurking in slow-flowing waters in lowland runs and pools, and feast on large insects like cicadas and wēta. Their spawning ecology is still being unravelled by ecologists, a recent study suggests there are freshwater migrations to and from their domain to spawn.
Eggs are deposited in floods during autumn on the banks of dense canopy cover. They usually run later in the whitebait season. Because they require instream cover with overhanging vegetation, they are disappearing from the east coasts of both islands. Some can live beyond 20 years, up to 40 years in captivity.
Banded kōkopu (Galaxias fasciatus)
Image supplied by: Suze Harris. Image credit: Alfonso Siciliano
Bandeds are common throughout the coast, and are the smallest in the whitebait stage, often golden in colour. They are difficult to differentiate from the other kōkopu when they are young, but the key feature in larger fish are stripes connect over their backs, which is easiest to see towards their tail. They rely on terrestrial insects and are sensitive to intensive land development and sedimentation, hence why they are less common on the east coasts of both islands. They are happy in any type of forests, including pine, beech, and rainforests.
The rarest of the whitebait species, shortjaws are named due to their overbite. They do not have distinct markings other than a black patch behind their gill plate, a blue-green eye, and a dark fringe on their fins. Territorial in nature, they like rocky streams with stable pools to live out their adult lives, likely ranging between 7-15 years. Little is known about these fish due to their solitary nature, but like the other kōkopu species, they spawn in autumn floods on the banks of streams, eggs develop in moist leaf litter and get carried away by floods out to sea. They tend to not coincide with beech forests, so are very rare south of Ōkārito.
Smoothwater River is the furthest southern record on the West Coast, and none have ever been recorded in Fiordland. They are now thought to be extinct from Canterbury. The West Coast is the densest area for shortjaws nationally due to habitat availability and decent water quality.
Also called climbing galaxias, Kōaro are the best climbers of the galaxiid family. They have elongated bodies with similar golden markings to a leopard. Their enlarged pectoral fins are ribbed, helping them climb any wet vertical surface. They can be found at the headwaters of rivers such as the Arahura and the Haast, even in the heart of the Southern Alps, which makes their larval migration out to sea incredible. There are lake-locked populations in NZ, including Lake Wānaka. They like rocky, tumbling streams and can be seen “moon bathing” on top of wet rocks in streams at night, which is likely a tactic to avoid tuna (eel) predation.
The Government is addressing historic redress inequities for some survivors abused at the Lake Alice Child and Adolescent Unit.
In 2001, the Crown reached a $6.5 million group settlement with 95 survivors subjected to abuse at the Lake Alice Unit. Law firm Grant Cameron & Associates (now GCA Lawyers) represented the group and deducted an estimated $2.6 million in legal fees from the total settlement before individual payments were made.
This resulted in survivors receiving, on average, an estimated $41,000, after approximately $27,000 was deducted in legal fees. Subsequently, further claimants received an average of $70,000 due to the Crown meeting legal costs.
“This inequitable treatment has been a historic injustice for over 20 years. As a society we should have done better. This Government is determined to do better,” Lead Coordination Minister Erica Stanford says.
“This decision directly relates to recommendation 18 of the Royal Commission’s final report. It recommended an independent person be appointed to review settlements, however Cabinet agreed this was an unnecessary step. The facts of this matter are clear and it was important to us that survivors be reimbursed as quickly as possible.”
Survivors can lodge a claim with the Ministry of Health claims service for reimbursement until 30 June 2025. Payments will be made on an ex-gratia basis, meaning they will not be treated as income for tax or benefit purposes.
$2.6 million will address the parity issue, cover Ministry of Health administration of the claims process, as well as meet the costs of additional claims that have been made recently for historic abuse at Lake Alice.
“Since July, we have acknowledged some children and young people experienced torture at the Lake Alice Unit and set up urgent financial assistance to those who are terminally ill.
“While we can never fully make redress for or right the harm survivors experienced, the Government is continuing to respond to the Royal Commission’s final report with the respect and care it deserves,” Ms Stanford says.
[BOISE] – Attorney General Raúl Labrador announced today a new partnership between Canyon County and the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force led by his office. Canyon County Commissioners, in coordination with Canyon County Sheriff Kieran Donahue, passed a resolution to join the ICAC Task Force and provide a full-time affiliate investigator. In addition, the City of Nampa Police Department will also be joining the ICAC Task Force with a full-time affiliate investigator, bringing the total full-time agency participants to eleven. “We are profoundly grateful for this new partnership with Sheriff Kieran Donahue, Nampa Police Chief Joe Huff, and Canyon County Commissioners Van Beek, Holton and Brooks,” said Attorney General Labrador. “Each agency adds needed capacity in our ability to protect children across Idaho from abuse and exploitation and helps keep these dangerous predators out of our community. We could not do this vital work without our dedicated local partners.” “The Canyon County Sheriff’s Office is proud to join this partnership to protect Idaho children from dangerous predators who use the internet and other technology to exploit and abuse them,” said Canyon County Sheriff Kieran Donahue. “Children are some of the most vulnerable people in our society, and we must make every effort to protect them. I’m thankful to Attorney General Labrador and the ICAC Task Force for this new partnership that will undoubtedly help keep Canyon County children safer from internet predators.” “Teamwork is essential for making our communities safer,” said Nampa Police Chief Joe Huff. “It is vital that we work together to protect our most vulnerable population and ensure that child predators are removed from our streets. This commitment is crucial for creating truly safe communities.” The Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force is one of sixty-one ICAC Task Forces in the Country. It is a multi-jurisdictional coalition of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies that investigate and prosecute individuals who use the internet or other technology to criminally exploit children. The Idaho ICAC Task Force is comprised of 25 full-time personnel including 11 full-time ICAC affiliate investigators and over 150+ part-time affiliate investigators statewide. So far in 2024, the ICAC Task Force has received 2,475 cyber-tips for investigation from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. On average, the ICAC Task Force is making one arrest every week across Idaho. Both the Canyon County Sheriff’s Office and the City of Nampa Police Department ICAC investigator positions are anticipated to begin on November 4th. Parents, educators, and law enforcement officials can find more information and helpful resources at the ICAC website, ICACIdaho.org.
The Hon Dr Jim Chalmers MP Treasurer Member for Rankin
The Hon Amanda Rishworth MP Minister for Social Services Member for Kingston
The Albanese Labor Government is co-investing alongside philanthropy to develop a national, independent, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting the needs and aspirations of local communities and addressing entrenched disadvantage.
Our Government recognises that there are disadvantaged communities right around Australia where a national approach on its own will never be enough.
This is about listening to and empowering local leaders, working with communities and designing services in a way that meets their bespoke needs.
That’s why the Government is investing $19.3 million over five years to establish Partnerships for Local Action and Community Empowerment (PLACE).
This funding will be matched by five philanthropy partners: Minderoo Foundation, Paul Ramsay Foundation, the Ian Potter Foundation, the Bryan Foundation and the Dusseldorp Forum.
PLACE will act as a one-stop shop to identify, support and enhance place-based programs in areas like the early years, youth development, health, education, employment and youth justice.
PLACE will focus on strengthening the capacity of communities to design and deliver these programs, promote evidence sharing, and improve data governance across place-based initiatives.
Hundreds of communities and thousands of Australians are expected to be helped by PLACE’s work in its first five years.
Place-based approaches involve government partnering with local communities to develop collaborative, long-term solutions to complex social problems tailored to individual community needs.
Place-based programs in Burnie, Tasmania have helped increase year 12 completion from 56 per cent in 2011 to 86 per cent in 2020, and helped reduce unemployment stemming from youth education and employment connection.
Place-based work in Logan, Queensland over the past decade has helped child vulnerability fall significantly – from about 37 per cent of kids not doing as well as we would like in 2009 down to 29 per cent in the last Australian Early Development Census.
PLACE will provide the forum and practical tools to replicate the successes of these initiatives in more communities and to enhance existing initiatives.
This is the next step in the Albanese Government’s efforts to address complex social problems through place-based approaches, building on the $200 million Targeting Entrenched Disadvantage package in the 2023-24 Budget.
This is all about ensuring no Australian is left behind or held back because of where they grew up.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth:
“Our Government is pleased to be part of this unique partnership with philanthropy to help empower communities and the people who live in them.
The need for PLACE emerged from community, which called out the fragmented nature and widespread gaps in local capability of place-based work and the lack of shared learning and best practice solutions to make progress locally.
I’m excited to see what comes out of PLACE to help those communities and Australians experiencing disadvantage that need it most to thrive.”
Quotes attributable to Treasurer Jim Chalmers:
“This is a passion of ours because too many kids in communities like mine are trapped in the cycle of intergenerational disadvantage.
The best way to solve issues communities face is by listening to them, developing solutions led by local people.
Place-based support has and can have a profound impact, and now more Australian communities will benefit from these kinds of initiatives.”
Quotes attributable to CEO of the Paul Ramsay Foundation Professor Kristy Muir:
“Place-based approaches recognise that local knowledge and experience are essential for creating thriving communities.
PLACE will be a valuable mechanism for bringing together expertise and resources so we can achieve more through place-based projects, supporting programs and practitioners to create stronger outcomes for local communities. Philanthropy is proud to be partnering with government to help bring PLACE to life.”
TUCSON, Ariz. – Jose Gracia-Vega, 28, of Tucson, was arrested on October 17, 2024, by members of the Arizona Strike Force for Possession with Intent to Distribute 27 Pounds of Methamphetamine and was charged by criminal complaint on October 18, 2024. Ulises Yescas-Garcia, 23, of Tucson, and Sebastian Higuera-Fuentes, 22, of Nogales, Sonora, Mexico were also arrested for their involvement in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and the distribution of methamphetamine in Tucson beginning in February of this year. Yescas-Garcia and Higuera-Fuentes were both charged earlier by indictment.
On October 2, 2024, Yescas-Garcia and Higuera-Fuentes were charged in a seven-count indictment with Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine, Distribution of Methamphetamine, and Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Methamphetamine in United States District Court, case CR-24-6720-TUC-RCC. The indictment alleges that they conspired with one another and others to distribute large amounts of methamphetamine in Tucson beginning in February 2024, and distributed that methamphetamine on at least six occasions during the time of the conspiracy.
On October 17, 2024, Gracia-Vega was arrested after being found in possession of approximately 27 pounds of methamphetamine destined for sale in Tucson. According to the complaint, Gracia-Vega met with Higuera-Fuentes that morning and provided him methamphetamine for later distribution. Higuera-Fuentes and Yescas-Garcia were arrested that same day on the charges set forth in the October 2nd indictment.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force operation. The OCDETF Strike Force Initiative identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Marana Police Department, the Pima County Sheriff’s Office, and the Arizona Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Petermann, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-24-6720-TUC-RCC 24-mj-9730-N/A-EJM RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-146_Gracia-Vega, Yescas-Garcia, Higuera-Fuentes
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZfor the latest news.
CAF -development bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, with the support of Cumbres Blancas, positioned itself at the COP16 in Cali as the first multilateral institution to address the protection of the páramos with a comprehensive vision that seeks not only environmental conservation, but also the improvement of the quality of life of local communities that depend on these ecosystems.
High mountain ecosystems, especially páramos, play a fundamental role in environmental sustainability and the well-being of millions of people. However, climate change, unsustainable land use and other human activities are seriously threatening these strategic ecosystems.
In this context, the páramos, which are found exclusively in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela, are recognized as the most biodiverse high mountain ecosystems in the world. They are home to more than 35,000 species of plants and vertebrates, ranking first in diversity of birds, mammals and amphibians, and second in reptiles. In addition, these ecosystems provide critical services to more than 60 million people who depend directly on their resources, including water and energy supply for cities such as Bogotá, Quito, and Cuenca.
The alliance with Cumbres Blancas reflects the institution’s commitment to promote concrete actions for the restoration and protection of the páramos, and aims to develop initiatives such as the construction of community nurseries, the creation of green employment capacities, and the restoration of watersheds, which are vital to guarantee access to drinking water and energy in these regions.
CAF’s strategic actions in the páramos are aimed not only at mitigating the impacts of climate change, but also at fostering the resilience of the communities living in these territories. Community nurseries, for example, will be a fundamental tool for restoring native flora and reforesting degraded areas. In addition, the creation of green jobs in sectors such as sustainable agriculture and natural resource management will directly contribute to improving the socioeconomic conditions of local populations.
Alicia Montalvo, CAF’s Climate Action and Positive Biodiversity Manager, said, “The challenge we face is not only to protect the biodiversity of the páramos, but to translate our knowledge and efforts into concrete actions to ensure their preservation. Our collaboration with ACTO and other institutions is key to obtaining accurate data and coordinating regional efforts, ensuring that resources are optimally invested where they are most needed.
CAF has already launched several initiatives in the region, ranging from ecological restoration to the promotion of sustainable bio-businesses. One of the most outstanding examples is the work being carried out with the 56 Puruhá indigenous communities of the Cotopaxi páramo, in Ecuador, through a bio-business project promoted together with the Global Environmental Facility (GEF), the Ministry of the Environment and the Heifer Foundation. This project aims to strengthen the organic quinoa production chain and improve the socioeconomic conditions of more than 600 families.
In addition, CAF is promoting, in collaboration with the GEF, a project that seeks to reduce the climate risk affecting paramo populations in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. This initiative will directly benefit more than 360,000 people, improving the capacity to adapt to climate change in these vulnerable areas. The goal is to ensure that these strategic ecosystems can continue to provide vital services to local populations.
Headline: Gartner Survey Shows 85% of Learning and Development Leaders Agree There Will Be a Surge in Skills Development Needs Due to AI and Digital Trends in Next 3 Years
As digital and AI trends continue to disrupt work, 85% of learning and development (L&D) leaders agreed that the need for skills development will significantly increase, according to Gartner, Inc. This research was showcased today during the Gartner ReimagineHR Conference, taking place here through Wednesday.
Source: The White House
BMORE LICKSBaltimore, Maryland
3:02 P.M. EDT
Q Mr. President, will you be watching the vice president’s speech tonight?
THE PRESIDENT: I will.
Q Why are you not attending? It’s right there on the Ellipse?
THE PRESIDENT: Because it’s for her. This is her night.
Q What do you expect to hear out of her tonight? What’s the closing message from the vice president?
THE PRESIDENT: I’ll let you hear it first.
Q Mr. President, are you worried about the North Korean troops in Kursk, in Russia?
THE PRESIDENT: I am concerned about it, yes.
Q Should the Ukrainians strike — strike back?
THE PRESIDENT: If they cross into Ukraine, yes.
3:03 P.M. EDT
Manitoba Government Announces Anti-Islamophobia Working Group
The Manitoba government is taking steps to address Islamophobia by forming a working group to tackle the issue in the province’s kindergarten to Grade 12 education system, Premier Wab Kinew announced today.
“Hate has no place in our province,” said Kinew. “It is important that we come together as Manitobans and stand united against all acts of hatred. We have a role as a government to keep things together here in Manitoba and we want Manitobans from all walks of life to know that your government is going to show up for you.”
The working group will focus on building awareness of Islamophobia and its impacts on all students and staff, developing training and professional opportunities and resources for educators, and providing input to Manitoba Education and Early Childhood Learning regarding K-12 anti-racism and anti-oppression policy initiatives.
“Over the last year, incidents of Islamophobia have increased in our classrooms and schools,” said Sadaf Ahmed, advocacy officer, National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM). “This is why an anti-Islamophobia strategy is imperative and NCCM welcomes the government of Manitoba‘s leadership to promote inclusivity in our education system.”
The working group will include members from the department, faith leaders, community advocacy groups and educators. The working group members are:
Sadaf Ahmed, National Council of Canadian Muslims;
Brahim Ould Baba, Manitoba Teachers’ Society;
Sarah Gazan, acting director, Indigenous Excellence Directorate, Education and Early Childhood Learning;
Muhamed Hammad, Faizan-E-Makkah Winnipeg (youth representative);
Humaira Jaleel, executive director, Healthy Muslim Families;
Kate McNeil, senior advisor to the deputy minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning;
Muhiadin Omar, Bilal Community and Family Centre;
Rhonda Shaw, director, learning and outcomes branch, Education and Early Childhood Learning;
Eve Sotiriadou, executive director, Canadian Muslim Women’s Institute;
Youcef Sufi, Manitoba Islamic Association; and
Ayesha Sultan, president, University of Manitoba Muslim Students Association.
The premier noted this work will build upon the successful development of the Manitoba Islamic Association’s Embracing Diversity in Manitoba Education K-12 Toolkit, which was developed to respond to Islamophobia in school communities.
Police investigating a two-vehicle crash on State Highway 2, north of Waipawa on Tuesday 29 October are wanting to speak to anyone who witnessed the crash.
The crash was reported at about 7pm.
Police would also like to speak to anyone who may have dashcam footage of a black Toyota hatchback or a silver Nissan sedan, who were both travelling in the northbound lane of State Highway 2.
Initial enquiries suggest speed was not a factor in this crash. Thankfully nobody was injured.
If you have any information that could help our enquiries, please update us online now or call 105.
Please use the reference number 241029/0687.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Police acknowledges the IPCA’s findings into the handling of allegations of inappropriate behaviour and sexual harassment between a junior officer and their senior supervisor in 2023.
We also acknowledge that both Officers A and B raised concerns about the process, some aspects of which Police also agree could have been better.
Wellington District Commander, Superintendent Corrie Parnell, says everyone who works for Police deserves to feel safe at work, and to be supported and kept informed fully through situations where they are involved in a workplace allegation and/or disciplinary process.
“In this instance, Officer A’s response to the allegations was sought, support was offered to them and communication maintained throughout the process, and we did consider making alternate arrangements such as suspending or moving Officer A for the duration of the process.
“We also maintain support was offered to Officer B through their new supervisor and another senior officer during the process, along with other welfare support,” Superintendent Parnell says.
Police believe that, from a process perspective, Officer A was not unfairly prejudiced by the decision to commence a disciplinary process and form preliminary views.
“In saying that, Police can always learn from situations like this, and we will continue to do so, to ensure our people are safe and feel safe at work, and are treated fairly,” Superintendent Parnell says.
Source: Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington
Acclaimed novelist Anna Smaill has been appointed as Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington International Institute of Modern Letters (IIML) and Creative New Zealand Writer in Residence for 2025.
Anna began her publishing career with a volume of poetry, The Violinist in Spring, which was released in 2005 by Te Herenga Waka University Press. Her first novel The Chimes won the prestigious award for Best Novel at the 2016 World Fantasy Awards. It was also longlisted for the Booker Prize and translated into four languages. Her second novel Bird Life was published in 2023 in the US, UK, and Australia to excellent reviews, with The Times (UK) calling it “a deeply affecting novel [that] transcend[s] cultural barriers while reaching through them to the essentially human”. Locally, it was longlisted for the Ockham Book Awards.
While holding the residency at the IIML, Anna will work on a novel tentatively titled The Blazing, which she describes as “part archival thriller, part coming-of-age story”. Set in both the US and UK, the novel will be “an examination of the value and worth of art and history in the midst of cultural collapse, and will explore ideas of provenance and whakapapa. In testing how individual stories can ripple outward to effect historical change, it will follow a path back to Aotearoa New Zealand,” said Anna.
Director of the International Institute of Modern Letters Damien Wilkins said, “Anna’s two novels put her in the front rank of writers in this country and we’re thrilled to have her in Bill Manhire House next year”.
Commenting on the appointment, Anna said, “I am so grateful for the chance to work on my next book at the International Institute of Modern Letters in 2025, the place where I first started to take myself seriously as a writer. The residency position represents time and creative freedom. But even more it represents the collective mana of the institute and all the writers it has fostered. I feel very lucky to be part of it”.
Anna takes up the residency at the IIML on 1 February 2025.
In 2001, Anna completed an MA in Creative Writing at the IIML. She subsequently lived and studied overseas, receiving a PhD in English Literature from University College, University of London. She has worked as an academic and as a senior communications advisor. Most recently she was the team leader of Te Papa’s English writing team. Anna is also an accomplished literary critic, having published articles on writers such as Janet Frame and Bill Manhire.
In 2015, Anna was a finalist in the Wellingtonian of the Year, Arts category. She also received a New Generation Award that year from the Arts Foundation.
With the 2024 holiday shopping season set to be one of the most challenging on record, Buy NZ Made is urging Kiwis to support local businesses this Christmas.
Buy NZ Made executive director Dane Ambler says rising costs, economic uncertainty, and ongoing global challenges have put immense pressure on small businesses across the country.
“Christmas is traditionally a peak period for small businesses but the high cost of living is taking a bite out of disposable income and despite their resilience, many small businesses are finding it hard to keep the lights on.
“Business and consumer confidence seems to be improving, inflation is falling, and it looks like New Zealand’s economy is turning a corner – but we’re not out of the woods yet. It is more important than ever for consumers to choose local products and services to help their small businesses thrive.”
Small businesses make up 97% of New Zealand’s economy and are often family-owned and operated. Kiwis are encouraged to buy one locally-made item to help their local stay afloat this NZ Made Day – November 21.
Ambler says every dollar spent locally can have a ripple effect.
“Buying local means providing essential income and livelihood for many New Zealanders. It minimises transportation distances and emissions, contributing to a more sustainable future too.
“So shop early, plan ahead, and prioritise local businesses when making your holiday purchases. You can make a significant difference for small business and ensure a brighter future for New Zealand’s economy.”
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
​The Director of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, New York, Ms Maisie Ho, visited Raleigh, North Carolina from October 28 to 29 (Raleigh time) to strengthen ties with interlocutors in business, technology, and education sectors.
Ms Ho attended the Raleigh Internet of Things (RIoT) Demo Night, an annual demonstration and networking event hosted by the RIoT initiative which fosters collaboration among start-ups, established companies, entrepreneurs and industry professionals. Before the event, she met with the Executive Director of RIoT, Mr Thomas Snyder and discussed potential partnership and exchange activities between start-ups and incubators in the Research Triangle Park of North Carolina and Hong Kong.
On the same day, Ms Ho visited Innovate Carolina, the central team for innovation, entrepreneurship and economic development at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC Chapel Hill). She met with the Director of New Ventures and Partnerships, Dr Bryant Moore, and the Director of Economic Development and Innovation Hubs, Ms Sheryl Waddell, to learn more about Innovate Carolina and explore possible collaborations in the future. During the meeting, Ms Ho introduced Hong Kong’s growing start-up ecosystem and strategic focuses, as well as the various talent attraction schemes available to entrepreneurs and young professionals graduating from the UNC Chapel Hill. The UNC Chapel Hill is on the list of eligible universities under Hong Kong’s Top Talent Pass Scheme.
Ms Ho also met with the Chief Executive Officer and President of First Flight Venture Centre, Ms Krista Covey. The centre is one of the most prominent incubators in the Research Triangle Park. During the meeting, Ms Ho introduced the latest measure in the 2024 Policy Address in attracting international start-up accelerators to establish a presence in Hong Kong through the I&T Accelerator Pilot Scheme.
In addition, she discussed areas of mutual interests during her meeting with the Vice President for Advocacy of business organisation of the Chamber for Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro, Mr Ian Scott.
Ms Ho was accompanied by the Head of Business and Talent Attraction / Invest Promotion of Invest Hong Kong in New York, Mr Ranjit Unnithan, during her visit to Raleigh.
Dear Friends, Last week, I filed a brief in support of our neighbor Utah in their lawsuit against the federal government regarding the widespread federal ownership of “unappropriated” land—that is, land owned by the federal government but not used for any federal purpose—across their state and throughout most of the West. Utah’s suit asks the United States Supreme Court to release much of this land back to the ownership and management of the states. As many of you know, I spent 8 years in Washington, D.C. representing Idaho’s First Congressional District. You can’t throw a rock in that town without hitting federal property of some sort like the Capitol, the White House, the National Mall, military bases, monuments, parks, courts, museums, galleries, statues, and of course, the metastasizing federal bureaucracy with administrative offices on every corner. Yet, with all that, the federal government owns only 25% of Washington, D.C. Yes, you read that right. The federal government owns only 25% of our nation’s capitol city and yet owns over 60% of our state. Idaho is over 83,000 square miles, and the federal government owns 61% of it. That’s land the State of Idaho can’t use. Instead, the federal government has the final say over what is allowed on this land. For example, the federal government has exclusive say over whether prescribed burns and other necessary maintenance will—or, in many cases, will not—take place in federally owned forests. Or if Idaho wants to cross federal lands with new roads, power lines, pipelines, or other items and activities essential for commerce and economic growth, it must obtain federal permission. This arrangement flips the division of power between the state and national governments that our Founders envisioned. The federal government is supposed to use its limited enumerated powers to address national issues, as it does by making treaties, regulating interstate commerce, or declaring war. States can then use their general authority to address local concerns, like land management. But on unappropriated federal lands—nearly a third of the federally owned land in Idaho—the federal government is involved in local issues without pursuing any constitutionally authorized aim. There are no courthouses or military installations on these lands, for example. Instead, the federal government simply acts as a self-interested landowner leasing out the land for timber, mining, and grazing—but without being subject to state law or state management practices. The problem of unappropriated federal land disproportionately affects western states, and places them on unequal footing with other states in which the federal government owns almost no land. Idaho, Utah, and other western states should have just as much say over how land within their borders is used and maintained as Iowa or Connecticut. But time after time, the sovereignty of western states is diminished by distant federal regulators overriding our will. A perfect example is the Lava Ridge Wind Project that the federal government is pulling out all the stops to ram through despite widespread opposition within Idaho. Because the federal government owns the unappropriated land on which the massive wind turbines for the project will be built, it doesn’t matter whether Idaho wants the project or not. Federal agencies can put their own priorities first—they can pursue the Biden-Harris “green agenda,” build wind turbines in Idaho that will send power to California and pocket the land-use fees for themselves. And that raises another concerning aspect of federal ownership of unappropriated lands in Idaho—it siphons what is likely tens of millions of dollars out of the state. If Idaho owned the land, it could conduct the same sort of activities that the federal government does—like leasing for timber, mining, and grazing—and reinvest the revenue within the state. Instead, Idaho’s land is used to generate money for the United States Treasury, where it can be used for federal projects in any part of the country. Congress knows this is unfair to western states and attempts to compensate them through a program called Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT). But western states receive pennies on the dollar compared to what they would receive if they managed the land themselves. Moreover, the whole arrangement just reinforces federal dominance over western states—as sovereigns, they should not be forced to come hat-in-hand to Congress to ask for money that the federal government has no constitutional authority to have in the first place. That’s why the Utah suit is so critical. It seeks to restore the proper balance of power between the western states and the federal government and place the western states on the same level as their eastern counterparts. This is yet another example in which Idaho has been oppressed by the federal government’s overreach. The sovereignty of states to manage their own lands was such an important topic that it was even brought up in the Constitutional Convention in 1787. It was insisted, ironically by a Massachusetts delegate, that state legislatures should first consent to the federal purchase of land within their borders to keep the federal government from buying up all the territory and pressuring any state by strangling their commerce and ability to grow. The idea of a powerful, unaccountable central government wasn’t particularly trusted some 200 years ago and not much has happened since to contradict the sentiment. It seems that the federal government consistently attempts to undermine the voice and opinions of the people of Idaho and regulate us into perpetual social and economic servitude. I’ll continue to fight every day for our state sovereignty and our ability to manage our own land, resources, and affairs here in Idaho.
Best regards,
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Tisdale RCMP continue to investigate the collision that occurred near the intersection of Township Road 424 and Range Road 2160 with the assistance of a Saskatchewan RCMP collision reconstructionist. As the investigation is ongoing, we are unable to provide additional information about any potential cause or details of the collision at this time.
At the time of the collision, 27 children approximately 14-17 years old and an adult bus driver were on the bus. All the bus occupants were from the Tisdale detachment area. 26 children and the bus driver were transported to hospital by EMS and parents. One child was taken to hospital in Saskatoon by STARS Air Ambulance. 21 children have injuries described as non-life threatening and 6 children have injuries described as serious in nature. The adult driver of the bus has injuries described as serious in nature. We are not able to share further details of their injuries or treatment/status at the hospital, as this is considered their personal health information.
Tisdale RCMP thanks the first responders who assisted in the response to the collision, including Melfort RCMP and Melfort, Tisdale and Naicam EMS. Thank you to the teachers, parents, and community members of Kinistin Saulteaux Nation who offered their support at the scene.
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Backgrounder
RCMP investigating school bus collision 22 kilometers southwest of Tisdale
2024-10-29
Tisdale RCMP are currently on scene and investigating a single vehicle collision involving a school bus that occurred at approximately 3:55 p.m. on October 28, 2024. The collision occurred near the intersection of Township Road 424 and Range Road 2160, approximately 22 kilometers southwest of Tisdale, SK. Local fire and EMS also responded.
The investigation is in its preliminary stages and at this time we do not have details to provide about the collision. The bus is currently upright in the ditch.
The adult driver of the school bus has injuries described as non-life threatening in nature. The school bus was transporting children at the time of the collision– we cannot confirm the number or ages of the children at this time. Some children are being treated for various injuries – we do not have specific details about their injuries or how many children require hospital treatment at this time.
The children’s families have been notified and we are asking news partners and the public to please respect their privacy at this time.
Tisdale RCMP continue to investigate with the assistance of a Saskatchewan RCMP collision reconstructionist. We do not anticipate further updates this evening.
A road closure is in place between Range Road 2160 and Range Road 2155 for an undetermined amount of time. Detours are in place but motorists should expect delays in the area. Please slow down and follow the instructions of emergency personnel on scene. Please visit the Highway Hotline for road closure updates.
On October 28, 2024 at approximately 11:45 p.m., Broadview RCMP received a report of a robbery at a business in Whitewood, SK.
Investigation determined an individual was parked outside of the business. An adult male approached the victim, deployed bear spray at him, then physically forced him from the vehicle. The suspect then stole the vehicle, striking the victim with it as he fled. The victim, an adult male, was taken to hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening in nature.
Officers immediately responded and located the vehicle on the Cowessess First Nation. They activated their emergency lights and sirens and attempted a traffic stop. The vehicle did not stop immediately, but later came to a stop and the four occupants fled on foot.
Saskatchewan RCMP’s Police Dog Services and Remotely Piloted Aircraft System arrived to assist.
Two of the four occupants have been located. No charges have been laid against them at this time.
Broadview RCMP continue to search for suspect in the robbery, as well as the fourth occupant in the vehicle.
The suspect is described as approximately 25 to 30 years old and six feet tall. He was last seen wearing a white/grey hoodie and sweat pants.
The investigation continues. Broadview RCMP ask members of the public to report all sightings of the suspect and information on his identity.
If seen, do not approach him. Report sightings and information to Broadview RCMP immediately by dialling 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.
Updates will be provided as they become available.
Saskatchewan RCMP’s Human Trafficking and Counter Exploitation Unit (HTCEU), part of the Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Teams (SERT), and Saskatoon RCMP Detachment has laid multiple charges against an adult male following a human trafficking investigation that began in Dundurn, SK.
On October 23, 2024 at approximately 5:15 a.m., Saskatoon RCMP were called to a business in Dundurn for a report of kidnapping.
Officers responded and located an adult female from Ontario at the business. Initial investigation determined she was being held against her will. Officers contacted HTCEU investigators, who began a human trafficking investigation. HTCEU investigators determined the woman had been forcibly taken from Toronto and that human trafficking had occurred in various locations in Ontario, Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
As a result of investigation, 51-year-old Pierre Andre Bouchard of Chambly, QC, is charged with:
one count, trafficking in persons, Section 279.01, Criminal Code;
one count, trafficking in persons – material benefit, Section 279.02(1), Criminal Code;
one count, forcible confinement, Section 279(2), Criminal Code;
one count, sexual assault, Section 271, Criminal Code;
one count, sexual assault with other weapon, Section 272(1)(a), Criminal Code;
one count, material benefit from sexual services, Section 286.2(1), Criminal Code;
one count, obtaining sexual services for consideration, Section 286.1(1), Criminal Code;
two counts, procuring, Section 286.3(1), Criminal Code;
one count, uttering threats against a person, Section 264.1(1)(a), Criminal Code;
one count, assault with weapon, Section 267(a), Criminal Code;
one count, fail to comply probation order, Section 733.1(1), Criminal Code;
one count, identity theft, 402.2(1), Criminal Code; and
one count, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, Section 354(1)(a), Criminal Code.
Bouchard was arrested by Saskatoon Police Service on October 23, 2024. He appeared in Saskatoon Provincial Court on October 24, 2024 and made his second court appearance in Saskatoon on October 28, 2024. Bouchard was remanded into custody for his next court appearance in Saskatoon on November 5, 2024.
Saskatchewan RCMP’s Saskatoon Detachment, Yorkton Saskatchewan Trafficking Response Team,Saskatoon General Investigation Section, Saskatoon Police Services’ VICE Unit and Victim Services, Regina Police Service’s VICE Unit, Toronto Police Service and Brandon Police Service assisted in this continuing investigation, along with additional community partners.
If you have information about this or any other incident of human trafficking, or if you or someone you know may be a victim of it, call 310-RCMP.
How to recognize and report human trafficking
“Human trafficking affects communities of all sizes, not just urban centres. It’s a reality that exists in big cities and small towns, including those here at home in Saskatchewan,” says Insp. Jeff Smoliak, RCMP’s Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Teams (SERT) senior investigative officer.
“It’s also a crime that has no borders, which is why the Saskatchewan RCMP works interjurisdictionally to investigate these complex files and works closely with municipal police agencies and partners across the country.”
Saskatchewan RCMP reminds the public that anyone can be a target for human trafficking. Victims may be trafficked by someone they know: a former or current partner, family member, friend, or trustworthy person. Recruiting tactics can be subtle; often victims don’t even know they’re being trafficked.
Traffickers may approach potential victims by:
pretending to be a potential love interest, friend or support person;
connecting over social media or in person;
offering gifts or money;
introducing drugs or alcohol; or
threatening potential victims’ loved ones if they don’t comply.
Additional information on recognizing human trafficking can be found here.
In addition to contacting the RCMP, the public can also contact the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-1010. This hotline is confidential, available 24/7 and offers services in more than 200 languages. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.
Background
The Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Teams (SERT) consists of Saskatchewan RCMP’s Crime Reduction Team (CRT), Warrant Enforcement Suppression Team (WEST), Saskatchewan Trafficking Response Team (STRT), the Offender Management Unit, and Human Trafficking and Counter Exploitation Unit (HTCEU). SERT helps the Saskatchewan RCMP continue to fulfil its mandate as the province’s police force – keeping our communities safe.
The Human Trafficking and Counter Exploitation Unit (HTCEU) is a specialized unit that conducts enforcement activities related to human trafficking, facilitates victim support, and educates partners and stakeholders.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
Aberdeen, MS – A federal jury convicted Belzoni resident Jarvis Hood, 23, of conspiring to transfer firearms to Chicago, Illinois residents and making false statements to federal firearms licensees during the purchase of multiple firearms.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, the investigation began after agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives noticed a high volume of firearms recovered in crimes in the City of Chicago, Illinois had been purchased in the Northern District of Mississippi. Some of the firearms involved in new crimes had been purchased as recent as one day prior to use in a new offense.
Several of the firearms were recovered in violent crimes and had machinegun devices attached that converted the firearms to be able to fire automatically. In total, investigators identified over 60 firearms that were purchased illegally and transported to Chicago for resale. Five defendants previously pled guilty for their roles in the offense.
Hood was charged with conspiracy to transfer firearms to out-of-state residents and to make false statements to federal firearms licensees during firearms purchases. After a five-day trial, a federal jury returned a verdict Monday finding Hood guilty of the offense. Sentencing is scheduled for February 4, 2025.
“This defendant and his cohorts profited and contributed to the gun violence plaguing Chicago by illegally trafficking in firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “AUSAs Julie Addison and Sam Stringfellow led an interagency team that has helped to stem the flow of illegal firearms from Mississippi to Chicago while also ensuring that the defendant will be held accountable for his criminal actions.”
“Machine gun conversion devices threaten the safety of our communities and law enforcement officers, and this verdict reinforces the urgent need to dismantle trafficking networks bringing these dangerous devices and firearms to the streets of Chicago,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon of the Chicago Field Division. “I thank the ATF Oxford Mississippi Field Office and the Northern District of Mississippi United States Attorney’s Office for their continued partnership.”
The case was investigated by the Chicago Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with assistance from the ATF Oxford, Mississippi Field Office. Valuable contributions were made by the Chicago Police Department, Wilmette Police Department, and Amtrak Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julie Addison and Samuel Stringfellow 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.
Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
Published: 10.29.2024
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) announced that the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is investing $119 million to support five major commercial and passenger rail improvement projects across Michigan. These projects are funded by the FRA’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program, which was funded through the bipartisan infrastructure law Peters helped enact.
“Michigan communities and businesses depend on rail infrastructure for safe and efficient transportation of essential goods across the state, as well as to regional and global partners,” said Senator Peters. “These five projects will strengthen our railways and expand shipping capacity while creating jobs and spurring economic growth.”
Below are descriptions of each project:
Detroit RECHARGED – Realizing Environmental Changes Happening Around Railroads Generating Equitable Development: The Michigan Department of Transportation will receive $67,440,000 to improve and expand capacity of the Livernois Intermodal Facility by installing 17,200 feet of new rail track. The project will also make important site enhancements on at the Livernois Intermodal Facility, including new pavement and replacing aging diesel gantry cranes with new hybrid and fully electric models.
Huron Subdivision Track & Service Improvement Program: The Lake State Railway Company will receive $27,130,810 to install approximately 52 miles of continuous welded rail between Pinconning and Alpena. Funding will also improve 34 highway-rail crossings and upgrade train signal devices at 13 locations along the route.
Leveraging Ludington: The City of Ludington will receive $16,400,000 to make improvements along a key rail route between Ludington and Grand Rapids, and enhance the Ludington Rail yard to improve efficiency and reliability of safe movement of goods throughout the area.
Wolverine and Blue Water Capacity Enhancement: The National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) will receive $8,384,000 to restore functionality of the historic double-track on Amtrak’s Michigan Line between Glenwood Road and Niles in Wayne Township. This project will maximize performance and improve service speed.
Enhancing Grade Crossing Safety in Rural Areas through FRA’s LiDAR Data, Machine Learning, and Collaborative Risk Assessment for Railroads and Highway Agencies: Michigan State University will receive $428,133 to conduct research aimed at improving the safety of rural rail crossings. Researchers will utilize Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) data provided by the Federal Railroad Administration to analyze rural crossings and develop new approaches for identifying roadway hazards.
The CRISI grant program invests in railroad infrastructure projects that improve safety, efficiency and support economic development in communities across the country. Peters has consistently advocated for the CRISI program and fought for Michigan applicants. Last year, he announced a $20 million CRISI grant awarded to MDOT for replacement of the Manistee River Bridge in Manton. As Chairman of the Commerce Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Maritime, Freight, and Ports, Peters held a field hearing in Lansing earlier this year to highlight the importance of the bipartisan infrastructure law and grant programs like CRISI for improving Michigan’s transportation infrastructure across the state. More information about the CRISI program can be found here.
Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced Michigan will receive $133,663,000 in federal funding to upgrade Michigan’s outdated water infrastructure and keep communities safe. This funding will support local projects to improve wastewater management systems, protect freshwater resources, and deliver safe drinking water to homes, schools, and businesses. This investment comes from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, that the senators helped enact. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law made the largest investment in water infrastructure in American history.
“This robust investment will help our state make great strides in upgrading Michigan’s outdated water infrastructure, addressing emerging contaminants like PFAS, and safeguarding our state’s unmatched freshwater resources,” said Senator Peters. “I was proud to play a role in passing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which made these upgrades possible, and I’m glad that this support will go to the communities in our state who need it most. We must continue working to ensure that every Michigander has access to safe drinking water.”
“The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act continues to deliver for Michigan,” said Senator Stabenow. “This new investment will improve our water systems, clean up pollution, keep our drinking water safe, fix old pipes, and more. Step-by-step, this law is making our state a safer, better place for families to live.”
“Water keeps us healthy, sustains vibrant communities and dynamic ecosystems, and supports economic opportunity. When our water infrastructure fails, it threatens people’s health, peace of mind, and the environment,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s historic investment in water, EPA is working with states and local partners to upgrade infrastructure and address local challenges—from lead in drinking water, to PFAS, to water main breaks, to sewer overflows and climate resilience. Together, we are creating good-paying jobs while ensuring that all people can rely on clean and safe water.
These Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds for Michigan – specifically $106,994,000 in Clean Water General Supplemental funding, $9,236,000 in Clean Water Emerging Contaminant funding, and $17,433,000 in Drinking Water Emerging Contaminant funding – will flow through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF and DWSRF). The State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs have been the foundation of water infrastructure investments for more than 30 years, providing low-cost financing for local projects across America. These critical programs help communities minimize pollution, invest in clean infrastructure projects, address emerging contaminants like PFAS, and implement systems to provide clean drinking water to residents.
Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Ted Budd (R-NC), Tim Scott (R-SC), and Rick Scott (R-FL) announced plans to introduce the Restoring an Economic Lifeline with Immediate Emergency Funding (Relief) Act that would replenish the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Program. On October 15th, the SBA announced the Disaster Loan Fund had run out of money. The senators plan to seek passage of the legislation when Congress returns to session.
“Hurricanes Francine, Helene, and Milton hit us hard, but Louisianans and Americans are resilient,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This funding is essential to help small businesses recover from these storms and support our local economies.”
“The SBA Disaster Loan Program running out of funds risks delays in processing the loans of those affected by Helene and Milton and their ability to get their lives back on track,” said Senator Tillis. “That is why I am leading legislation to replenish this fund when Congress returns to Washington, and I look forward to working across the aisle to pass a long-term disaster aid package that will provide additional resources to help make the victims of these hurricanes whole again. ”
“The citizens of Western North Carolina are some of the toughest and most resilient people in this country,” said Senator Budd. “As they recover and rebuild their communities, they must be able to access disaster loans from SBA. This recovery will take many years, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to cut through the delays and provide WNC with the resources they need as quickly as possible.”
“Hurricane Helene brought a level of devastation to South Carolina we haven’t seen since Hugo. With a natural disaster of this magnitude, Congress should take the opportunity to show leadership and help ease the pain of those who have lost everything,” said Senator Tim Scott. “Communities back home and in surrounding states have come together to recover, but it will take every possible effort to get us back to where we were.”
“We cannot allow frontline federal agencies, like the SBA, to run out of disaster relief funds. This is especially important in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton which devastated Florida, North Carolina and communities across the Southeast U.S,” said Senator Rick Scott. “I continue to call on Leader Schumer to immediately reconvene the Senate so we can fund disaster relief functions at FEMA, the SBA, USDA and other agencies to get folks what they need and deserve. I won’t stop fighting to get this done and am proud to join my colleagues to introduce a bill that funds SBA disaster loans and makes sure the federal government is a reliable partner as families continue their recovery.”
The Relief Act would appropriate $550 million to fund the SBA Disaster Loan Program Account, which would provide $2.475B in lending capacity projected to last until the end of 2024.
Department of Defense Spokesman Cmdr. Javan Rasnake provided the following readout:
On October 29, 2024, Ms. Lisa Sawyer, the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (DASD) for European and NATO Policy in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, co-chaired the U.S.-Croatia Bilateral Defense Consultations (BDC) with Ms. Nikolina Volf, Deputy Director of Policy, Croatian Ministry of Defense. The meeting took place in the Pentagon in Washington, DC, and included participation from the Ministry of Defense and General Staff of Croatia, the U.S. Joint Staff, U.S. European Command, the Minnesota National Guard, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, and the Department of State.
Participants discussed global security, support to Ukraine, and bilateral security cooperation priorities, including exercises, training, military-to-military engagements, defense modernization initiatives, and Croatia’s longstanding State Partnership Program with the Minnesota National Guard. Croatian defense officials provided their perspective on the security situation in the Western Balkans, their role within the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Alliance including the fielding of a Heavy Brigade to meet a NATO capability, infrastructure development at its training ranges and ports, logistics cooperation, and combating malign influence in the Western Balkans. The United States thanked Croatia for a productive BDC and reaffirmed the importance of the EU-facilitated Dialogue as the best way to achieve a stable and secure Western Balkans.
