Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
State Highway 6 between Blenheim and Nelson has re-opened following a crash near Canvastown this morning.
There are speed restrictions in the area, motorists are advised to exercise caution.
Police wish to thank motorists for their patience while the crash was cleared.
ENDS
Source: New South Wales – News
A man was arrested after allegedly attempting to steal a car at Seaford last night.
Police were called to Commercial Road, Seaford just after 9pm on Saturday 12 April by reports of an attempted robbery.
A 19-year-old woman was sitting in her car in the shopping centre car park when she was approached by a man who asked for a lift.
They had a brief conversation before he allegedly reached in and dragged her out of the car.
Witnesses quickly intervened, pulled the man out of the car and detained him until police arrived.
Fortunately, the victim wasn’t injured during this incident.
The 20-year-old South Brighton man was arrested and charged with aggravated robbery. He was refused police bail and will appear in the Christies Beach Magistrates Court on Monday 14 April.
Police thank the public for their swift intervention and coming to the young woman’s aid.
Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Halifax Regional Detachment RCMP is asking for the public’s help in locating a woman seen on the side of Highway 102 near Exit 6.
Police temporarily closed the highway earlier today as part of the investigation.
The individual is described as having reddish hair tied back in a ponytail. She was seen wearing white shoes, black leggings and a dark, possibly green jacket or hoodie.
Police are concerned for the individual’s safety and would like to make contact with her.
Source: US State of New York
Today’s buyback event in Syracuse resulted in 638 guns being turned in, including 130 assault weapons, 333 handguns, 2 ghost guns, and 150 long guns. Following today’s gun buyback event, Attorney General James has helped remove more than 9,000 guns out of New York communities.
“We can only succeed in reducing gun violence if we use every strategy available,” said Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh. “Gun buybacks have and should continue to be part of our approach in Syracuse. For people in possession of guns they no longer want, buybacks provide a safe way to dispose of those weapons, and that’s good for our neighborhoods. I thank Attorney General James for teaming with the Syracuse Police Department to administer this effective program in Syracuse.”
“I would like to thank the Attorney General’s Office for organizing another gun buy back event in the city of Syracuse,” said Syracuse Police Chief Joe Cecile. “Events like these, along with other proactive initiatives and the efforts of the hardworking men and women of law enforcement, are the best team strategy for driving gun violence numbers down while protecting our law-abiding citizens.”
“The Syracuse Mayor’s Office to Reduce Gun Violence works with a team of community partners to put an end to the grief and sadness that gun violence creates,” said Lateef Johnson Kinsey, Director of the Mayor’s Office to Reduce Gun Violence. “We share a commitment to get guns off our streets because we know fewer guns will make safer neighborhoods. I’m grateful to Attorney General James for assisting our work with another gun buyback program. Without the help of Attorney General James, we could never undertake such an effort.”
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
40 Members call on Trump admin to reverse course on plans to dismantle agency charged with combating illegal employment discrimination ahead of April 14th “fork in the road” deadline
OFCCP recovered $22.5 million for 12,756 affected workers in FY24 alone
ICYMI: Senator Murray Presses Deputy Labor Secretary Nominee on Trump Dismantling OFCCP And Enabling Illegal Discrimination
Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member and former Chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and U.S. Representative Shontel Brown (D, OH-11) led 38 of their Senate and House colleagues in sending a letter to Department of Labor (DOL) Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer expressing concerns over reports of the Department’s plans to slash the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs’ (OFCCP) capacity by 90 percent and close over 50 local offices. Last Friday, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer sent an email to OFCCP employees saying they have until Monday, April 14th, to take the “fork in the road” deferred resignation offer or be fired.
For decades, OFCCP has investigated complaints from workers and reviewed federal contractors’ employment practices—safeguarding federal contract workers from various forms of discrimination, recovering back pay, negotiating job opportunities, and more. In Fiscal Year 2024, OFCCP recovered $22.5 million for 12,756 affected workers and negotiated 407 job opportunities for workers.
In January, President Trump signed Executive Order 14173, which revoked Executive Order 11246—signed in 1965—which gave the Department of Labor the authority to investigate and remedy prohibited employment discrimination on the basis of race, religion, and national origin by federal contractors, the agency remains responsible for enforcing anti-discrimination laws and equal employment requirements for workers with disabilities and veterans. Federal contract workers make up more than 20 percent of the entire U.S. labor force, making OFCCP a powerful force to prevent and remedy discrimination across the country.
“Drastic cuts to staff and shuttered offices in our communities would leave workers vulnerable to discrimination. While Executive Order 11246 was revoked, the agency remains responsible for enforcing anti-discrimination laws and equal employment requirements for workers with disabilities and veterans. As of mid-February, the agency had 317 investigators. These investigators remain responsible for investigating thousands of contractor establishments that employ millions of workers. The estimated 36 million federal workers dispersed across the United States make investigators in regional and district offices critical for effective enforcement,” the 40 Members wrote in their letter to Secretary Chavez-DeRemer.
“The Department cannot abdicate its responsibility to workers. We urge you to abandon plans to dismantle OFCCP and reaffirm the Department’s commitment to protecting equal employment opportunities for federal contract workers,” the Members concluded.
Joining Senator Murray and Representative Brown in sending the letter were U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Ed Markey (D-MA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), and Ron Wyden (D-OR) as well as U.S. Representatives Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Donald Beyer (VA-08), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), André Carson (IN-07), Judy Chu (CA-28), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Danny Davis (IL-07), Cleo Fields (LA-04), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Summer Lee (PA-12), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Dina Titus (NV-01), and Rashida Tlaib (MI-12).
The letter was endorsed by the American Association of University Women, American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights, NAACP Legal Defense Fund, and the National Partnership for Women and Families.
Senator Murray has loudly spoken out against the Trump administration’s plans to shutter OFCCP, slamming Trump’s Executive Order 14173 in a statement and pressing Keith Sonderling, President Trump’s then-nominee for Deputy Labor Secretary, about the consequences of the administration’s efforts to shutter OFCCP at his confirmation hearing. Throughout her career, Senator Murray has championed workers’ rights and fought to combat employment discrimination, including as the top Democrat on the Senate labor committee from 2015-2022—among other things, Senator Murray fought back against a proposed DOL rule by the Trump administration that would allow federal contractors and subcontractors to justify discrimination against women, LGBTQ+ people, and members of certain religious groups on ideological grounds. Senator Murray first introduced the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act—comprehensive labor legislation to protect workers’ right to stand together and bargain for fairer wages, better benefits, and safer workplaces—in the 116th Congress, and also leads the Bringing an End to Harassment by Enhancing Accountability and Rejecting Discrimination (BE HEARD) in the Workplace Act, comprehensive legislation to prevent workplace harassment, strengthen and expand key protections for workers, and support workers in seeking accountability and justice.
The text of the Members’ letter is available below and a PDF is HERE.
Dear Secretary Chavez-DeRemer:
We are deeply concerned by recent reports that the U.S. Department of Labor (The Department) plans to slash capacity at the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs’ (OFCCP) by 90 percent and shut down its more than 50 local offices. Federal contract workers make up more than 20 percent of our nation’s workers and are spread across the country, making OFCCP a powerful force to prevent and remedy discrimination. We urge you to abandon these plans and instead uphold the Department’s responsibility to protect equal employment opportunities for federal contract workers.
For decades, OFCCP has worked effectively to prevent and address unlawful discrimination by investigating individual complaints from workers and by proactively reviewing federal contractors’ employment practices. This unique power to proactively review whether employers were complying with the law allowed OFCCP to identify discrimination that might have otherwise gone unreported or undiscovered. Federal contract workers have benefited from OFCCP’s efforts to recover back pay, salary adjustments, and retroactive seniority on their behalf. In FY 2024, OFCCP recovered $22.5 million for 12,756 affected workers and negotiated 407 job opportunities for workers.
Drastic cuts to staff and shuttered offices in our communities would leave workers vulnerable to discrimination. While Executive Order 11246 was revoked, the agency remains responsible for enforcing anti-discrimination laws and equal employment requirements for workers with disabilities and veterans. As of mid-February, the agency had 317 investigators. These investigators remain responsible for investigating thousands of contractor establishments that employ millions of workers. The estimated 36 million federal workers dispersed across the United States make investigators in regional and district offices critical for effective enforcement.
Workers deserve to be treated fairly in all aspects of employment and cannot afford to miss out on pay, a promotion or the chance to be considered for a good paying job because of discrimination. Workers cannot afford to lose their anti-discrimination enforcers.
The Department cannot abdicate its responsibility to workers. We urge you to abandon plans to dismantle OFCCP and reaffirm the Department’s commitment to protecting equal employment opportunities for federal contract workers.
Sincerely,
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)
Know Your Immigration Rights
If you or a loved one encounter immigration enforcement officials, it is essential that you know your rights and have prepared your household for all possible outcomes.
Ask for a warrant: The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution protects you from unreasonable search and seizure. You do not have to open your door until you see a valid warrant to enter your home or search your belongings.
Your right to remain silent: The Fifth Amendment protects your right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. You are not required to share any personal information such as your place of birth, immigration status or criminal history.
Always consult an attorney: You have a right to speak with an attorney. You do not have to sign anything or hand officials any documents without speaking to an attorney. Try to identify and consult one in advance.
The New York City Office of Civil Justice and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) support a variety of free immigration legal services through local nonprofit legal organizations. To access these resources, dial 311 and say “Action NYC,” call the MOIA Immigration Legal Support Hotline at 800-354-0365 Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or visit MOIA’s website.
Learn more here: KNOW YOUR IMMIGRATION RIGHTS – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
In support of National Security Education Day on April 15, the Immigration Department, the Correctional Services Department (CSD) and the Civil Aid Service (CAS) today held open days to promote national security education and showcase departmental achievements.
In booth games and a thematic exhibition, the Immigration Service Institute of Training & Development showcased the technology it uses in its counter-terrorism work, detention centre management and identification of suspicious documents. Visitors were given the chance to try out facilities such as a mock immigration clearance hall and court room.
Secretary for Justice Paul Lam and Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung, accompanied by Immigration Department directorate officers, toured the exhibition booths and interacted with the open day participants.
The CSD’s open day activities were staged at the Correctional Services Museum and the Community Education Experience Centre. Interactive games and multimedia exhibits at the centre conveyed messages on offender rehabilitation and in support of law-abiding and drug-free lifestyles.
Financial Secretary Paul Chan and security chief Tang Ping-keung were accompanied by Commissioner of Correctional Services Wong Kwok-hing and Deputy Commissioner of Correctional Services (Operations and Strategic Development) Leung Ka-lun in attending the event.
At its headquarters, the CAS staged an exhibition and displayed the winning entries from a patriotic essay competition. Service members also presented a mountain search-and-rescue demonstration and a bicycle show.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Jobie Patterson, age 53, of Syracuse, pled guilty Tuesday to conspiracy to traffic firearms and possession of child pornography. United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) made the announcement.
As part of his guilty plea, Patterson admitted that between approximately December 2022 and January 2023, he conspired with others to unlawfully transfer firearms. Patterson admitted that a coconspirator acquired firearms using a straw purchaser in Georgia, then sent photographs and videos of those firearms to Patterson in Syracuse. Patterson then sold those firearms to a customer in Syracuse. Patterson further admitted that he knew that the customer had previously been convicted of a felony, and that the use, carrying, or possession of the firearms by the customer would constitute a felony. Patterson acknowledged that at a meeting in Syracuse, he sold the customer 4 handguns.
Patterson further admitted, as part of his guilty plea, that he committed the separate offense of possession of child pornography. Patterson admitted that in May 2023, the defendant knowingly possessed sexually explicit images and videos of a 16-year-old female child. Patterson admitted that in a series of messages he exchanged with the child, the defendant directed the child to produce and transmit specific sexually explicit images to him, which she did. Patterson acknowledged that he then knowingly possessed those images in his personal cloud storage account.
At sentencing, currently set for August 13, 2025, on the firearms-trafficking conspiracy, Patterson faces up to 15 years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000. Patterson may be required to forfeit the firearms involved in the crime. On the child pornography offense, Patterson faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000. Patterson also faces a supervised release term of at least 5 years and up to life, to follow any term of imprisonment. Patterson may also be ordered to pay restitution to the victim of his offense and must register as a sex offender upon his release from prison. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
FBI is investigating the case, with assistance from the New York State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew J. McCrobie is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood and Project Safe Neighborhoods.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)
Former CEO of Nate, Inc. Charged with Making False Claims About His Company’s Artificial Intelligence Technology
Matthew Podolsky, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Christopher G. Raia, the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced today an Indictment charging ALBERT SANIGER, the former Chief Executive Officer of Nate, Inc. (“nate”), with engaging in a scheme to defraud investors and prospective investors of nate by making false and misleading statements about nate’s use of proprietary AI technology and its operational capabilities.
Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky said: “As alleged, Albert Saniger misled investors by exploiting the promise and allure of AI technology to build a false narrative about innovation that never existed. This type of deception not only victimizes innocent investors, it diverts capital from legitimate startups, makes investors skeptical of real breakthroughs, and ultimately impedes the progress of AI development. This Office and our partners at the FBI will continue to pursue those who seek to harm investors by touting false innovation.”
FBI Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia said: “Albert Saniger allegedly defrauded investors with fabrications of his company’s purported artificial intelligence capabilities while covertly employing personnel to satisfy the illusion of technological automation. Saniger allegedly abused the integrity associated with his former position as the CEO to perpetuate a scheme filled with smoke and mirrors. The FBI will continue to investigate any business owner who withholds material information to encourage additional investments.”
According to the allegations contained in the Indictment:[1]
In or about 2018, SANIGER founded nate, an e-commerce company that launched the nate app. SANIGER marketed the nate app as a universal shopping cart app that simplified online shopping by enabling users to “skip the checkout” on retail website by reducing the checkout process to a “single tap.” For example, if a consumer found a pair of sneakers that they wanted to purchase on a particular e-commerce site, the user could buy the sneakers by opening the nate app and clicking “buy.” The nate app purported to take care of the remainder of the checkout process through AI: selecting the appropriate size, entering billing and shipping information, and confirming the purchase.
Nate distinguished itself from other e-commerce companies and apps through a single defining feature: the ability to intelligently and quickly complete retail transactions across all e-commerce sites through the use of AI technology. SANIGER repeatedly told investors and the public that the company’s app used proprietary AI technology to autonomously complete online purchases on behalf of users.
Based on representations about nate’s use of AI, SANIGER solicited investments from venture capital firms. In pitch materials transmitted to investors, SANIGER touted the company’s use of AI and represented that nate was “able to transact online without human intervention.” As prospective investors conducted due diligence, SANIGER repeatedly represented that—except for certain “edge cases” in which the AI failed to complete a customer transaction—the nate app was fully automated based on AI.
In reality, nate did not use AI to autonomously navigate the checkout process of e-commerce websites and complete purchases on behalf of users. While SANIGER had acquired AI technology from a third party and hired a team of data scientists to develop it, nate’s AI never achieved the ability to consistently complete e-commerce purchases. As SANIGER knew, at the time nate was claiming to use AI to automate online purchases, the app’s actual automation rate was effectively zero percent. SANIGER concealed that reality from investors and most nate employees: he told employees to keep nate’s automation rate secret; he restricted access to nate’s “automation rate dashboard,” which displayed automation metrics; and he provided false explanations for his secrecy, such as the automation data was a “trade secret.”
In truth, nate relied heavily on teams of human workers—primarily located overseas—to manually process transactions in secret, mimicking what users believed was being done by automation. SANIGER used hundreds of contractors, or “purchasing assistants,” in a call center located in the Philippines to manually complete purchases occurring over the nate app. In or about the fall of 2021, with the busy holiday shopping approaching, and despite his numerous prior representations that nate did not use bots (or “dumb bots”, as he referred to them), SANIGER directed nate’s engineering team to develop “bots” to automate some transactions on the nate app. After creating the bots, nate used bots in addition to the manual teams to complete purchases that were purportedly being completed by AI technology.
SANIGER raised more than $40 million from multiple investors based in part on his representations to investors about nate’s development and deployment of AI.
* * *
SANIGER, 35, of Barcelona, Spain, is charged with one count of securities fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, and one count of wire fraud, which also carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Podolsky praised the outstanding investigative work of the Special Agents from the FBI. Mr. Podolsky also thanked the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which has filed a parallel civil action.
The case is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force and the Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas W. Chiuchiolo, Alexandra Messiter, and Sarah Mortazavi are in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment and the descriptions of the Indictment constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – A federal jury in Asheville returned a guilty verdict late yesterday against Stephanie Miranda Neace, 32, of Blairsville, Georgia, for the 2023 kidnapping and robbery of an elderly victim, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Neace’s co-defendant, Jordan Nathaniel Hedden, 31, of Murphy, N.C., pleaded guilty to kidnapping and will be sentenced on April 14.
Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in North Carolina joins U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making today’s announcement.
“This was a frightening crime against an elderly victim who was just trying to help out of the kindness of her heart,” said U.S. Attorney Ferguson. “People who commit crimes like this affect how we treat one another, and we are committed to bringing them to justice.”
According to court documents, trial evidence, and witness testimony, on November 30, 2023, the victim, a 71-year-old female, was driving from Georgia to North Carolina, when she saw the defendants walking. The victim offered the defendants a ride because it was cold outside. The defendants accepted the ride, and soon after they entered North Carolina, Hedden instructed the victim to drive to his car. When they arrived at the location, a car was not there. Hedden then ordered the victim to stop the vehicle, and when the victim refused, Hedden forced the victim to stop the car and get in the back seat. Hedden then took over driving.
According to evidence presented at trial, the victim began to cry and Hedden yelled at her and told her to shut up. Trial evidence showed that Hedden appeared to be high and agitated and became paranoid that the victim had a tracking device. At one point, Hedden stopped the vehicle, and he and Neace searched the car and the victim herself for tracking devices. Then, they took the victim’s phone and disabled it. Hedden also demanded money from the victim, but the victim only had $2. Fearing for her safety, the victim told the defendants to take her to an ATM and the defendants agreed. During the drive into Tennessee, Hedden made the victim promise that she would not identify them to the police.
During the drive to the ATM, the victim convinced Hedden to let her withdraw money from a gas station ATM instead of a bank. The victim also told Hedden that she would give the defendants the money if they let her stay behind safely at the gas station. When they arrived at the gas station, the victim took her purse and her car key fob. She told Hedden to turn off the car so the headlights could not be seen from the people inside the gas station, and Hedden complied. As the victim and Hedden were walking toward the gas station, the victim began to run to the door and scream for help. Hedden ran back to the car, attempted to use it to flee but was unable to start the car without the key fob. Hedden and Neace then fled on foot and escaped into the woods but were apprehended days later.
Neace was convicted of kidnapping which carries a maximum prison sentence of up to life imprisonment. On November 13, 2024, Hedden pleaded guilty to kidnapping. Both Hedden and Neace are currently in custody awaiting sentencing.
In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson thanked the FBI for their investigation of the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Don Gast and Alexis Solheim of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville are prosecuting the case.
Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police
The Southwest Nova RCMP Street Crime Enforcement Unit (SCEU) has charged a man with drug trafficking offences as part of an investigation that began in 2024.
On April 10, the Southwest Nova RCMP SCEU executed a search warrant at a home on Hwy. 203 in Ohio. Officers safely arrested a man and seized cocaine (1.1kgs), cannabis (3.3 kgs), unstamped tobacco (60K cigarettes), cash ($50K), paraphernalia associated to drug trafficking, and a machete.
James Edward Reid, 64, of Ohio, has been charged with:
Reid was released on conditions and is scheduled to appear in Barrington Provincial Court on June 11 at 9:30 a.m.
The investigation, which is led by the Southwest Nova SCEU, is ongoing and is being assisted by Shelburne RCMP Detachment, Bridgewater Police Service, the Criminal Intelligence Service Nova Scotia and the Department of Service Nova Scotia.
Nova Scotians are encouraged to contact their nearest RCMP detachment or local police to report crime, including the illegal sale of drugs, in their communities. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submitting a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or using the P3 Tips app.
File # 2024-1381435
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
LITTLETON, Colo., April 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GeniZenith CRYPTO GROUP LIMITED today announced its official launch, unveiling an ambitious vision to develop and operate the world’s first AI Cloud cryptocurrency trading system. Headquartered in the United States, GeniZenith aims to revolutionize the digital asset market by addressing critical industry pain points through the strategic integration of cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) and robust cloud computing. From its inception, the company has established a strong foundation of regulatory compliance.
The rapidly growing cryptocurrency market presents immense opportunities but is often challenged by trading inefficiencies, significant security vulnerabilities, complex user experiences, and difficulties in navigating extreme volatility. GeniZenith is engineered to directly tackle these issues, redefining the standard for cryptocurrency exchanges. The company’s core innovation lies in synergizing AI’s analytical power with the scalability and resilience of cloud infrastructure. The platform is designed not only to execute trades with superior speed and efficiency but also to empower users with AI-driven insights, adaptive trading strategies, and proactive risk management tools – all within a highly secure environment.
A strong commitment to operating responsibly within the U.S. regulatory landscape is fundamental to GeniZenith’s strategy. The company confirms its incorporation in the State of Colorado (ID Number: 20251174882) and its successful registration as a Money Services Business (MSB) with the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) (MSB Registration Number: 31000292945082). Furthermore, demonstrating its adherence to established U.S. corporate and regulatory protocols, GeniZenith has completed necessary filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) (File No. 021-541461, Film No. 25753741).
These foundational steps highlight GeniZenith’s dedication to building long-term trust and ensuring a sustainable, compliant future for its platform and users. The company is committed to meeting and exceeding regulatory expectations as it progresses towards its platform launch.
GeniZenith plans to offer a comprehensive suite of services, including spot trading, derivatives trading, fiat on/off ramps, and innovative wealth management solutions, all enhanced by its proprietary AI engine. The company aims to provide a seamless and intuitive experience for both novice traders and sophisticated institutional investors.
About GeniZenith CRYPTO GROUP LIMITED:
GeniZenith CRYPTO GROUP LIMITED is a US-based financial technology company pioneering the development of the world’s first AI Cloud cryptocurrency trading system. By integrating advanced artificial intelligence with scalable cloud infrastructure, GeniZenith aims to provide global investors with an innovative, efficient, secure, and compliant platform for trading digital assets. Headquartered in Littleton, Colorado, the company is committed to addressing key industry challenges and setting new standards for the cryptocurrency exchange market.
Contact:
William Johnson
Chief Technology Officer
GeniZenith CRYPTO GROUP LIMITED
Email: william.johnson@genizenith.com
Website: https://www.genizenith.com/
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ced6ef17-c546-4b82-8830-396bbdcd6caf
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The purpose-built facility is set to open in January 2025.
Work is on track at the new home of the Gugan Gulwan Youth Aboriginal Corporation in Wanniassa.
It will support Gugan Gulwan to deliver expanded services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Canberrans, including:
The purpose-built centre will offer services in a culturally appropriate and familiar setting.
It will have a private central gathering place. There will also be a fire pit to acknowledge traditional and contemporary cultural practices.
The new facility will tell the stories of pre-colonisation, post-colonisation and contemporary history with an ongoing connection to Country through artwork and storytelling.
It seeks to reflect and uphold Aboriginal identity, including when connections to Country may be elsewhere.
Considered, sustainable design
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have culturally led the design. Interpretive work within will reflect this.
The unique façade features 43 highly detailed precast panels. Each weighs an average of eight tonnes.
The project is targeting 5-star Green Buildings certification. Features include:
The building will also collect water with a 1,700L rainwater collection tank.
Gugan Gulwan and its leadership
Gugan Gulwan’s commitment is to protect, nurture and support children, youth and their families as they grow – from birth, through childhood, adolescence and into adulthood.
Gugan Gulwan work in collaboration and partnership with their clients through a range of programs.
Damien Coke has recently been appointed to the role of Chief Executive Officer of Gugan Gulwan Youth Aboriginal Corporation. This follows the retirement of Kim Davison after decades of service.
Mr Coke is a proud Yorta Yorta, Wemba Wemba man, with significant connections to the Yuin nation and maintains a strong connection to his cultures.
He has extensive experience in cultural engagement for corporates and change management for diversity and inclusion outcomes.
Mr Coke is also a highly experienced senior manager and administrator, having held positions including Chief Operations Officer for Reconciliation Australia and Executive Director, Business Services at Indigenous Business Australia.
“This is a beautiful and unique building, which in many ways reflects the organization that is Gugan Gulwan,” Mr Coke said.
“My vision for this new building is not just a place that is beautiful and unique. My vision is for this place to be a home away from home for the community. A place that is culturally safe and where all mob feel welcome – always.”
To find more information about Gugan Gulwan visit their Facebook page.
Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Construction crews have been busy preparing the schoolgrounds for new buildings.
Construction work on the Garran Primary School modernisation is now underway.
Over the last few months, construction crews have forged ahead on the project. This has included:
Now that the groundwork is in place, it’s time to start building up.
Over the coming months you’ll see buildings rise out of the ground in the northern sections of the schoolgrounds. This will include the library, preschool and learning community buildings.
Once complete, the modernisation of Garran Primary will increase capacity up to 975 students from preschool to year 6. It will include:
The first stage of the project involves the construction of the new school campus and preschool. This first stage of the project is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2025 with students moving into the new school campus shortly after.
The second stage of the project will involve:
This second stage of the project is scheduled for completion by the end of 2026.
Find out more information about the project.
Visit the Garran Primary School Modernisation webpage for further details.
Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The two new suburbs will bring the number of suburbs in the district to seven.
Two new suburbs in the Molonglo Valley will be named Bandler and Sulman.
These honour prominent Australians Faith Bandler AC and Sir John Sulman.
These new suburbs will sit within the Molonglo Valley 3 East development. This is the next major stage of suburban development in the area.
Bandler will be developed first. It will sit east of Whitlam across John Gorton Drive.
This will bring the number of suburbs in the district to seven.
Naming Canberra suburbs and places allows us to celebrate influential people from all backgrounds.
Faith Bandler AC
Ida Lessing Faith Bandler was a human rights activist, social justice advocate and author.
She helped raise public awareness and understanding of:
Faith’s daughter Associate Professor Lilon Bandler said the naming acknowledged her mother’s dedication to creating a more just, inclusive world.
“She had an unwavering commitment to civil rights and social reform that has left an indelible mark on our history. It is deeply moving to see her legacy honoured through the naming of this new suburb in Canberra, a city she visited many, many times.
“As her daughter, I find it particularly fitting that the Division of Bandler will be located next to the Division of Whitlam. My mother often spoke of the importance of visionary leadership in creating social change,” Lilon said.
Sir John Sulman
Sir John Sulman was an architect and town planner. He helped shape Canberra in its early development and influenced the city’s design.
He was appointed Knight Bachelor of the British Empire in 1924. This was in recognition of his influence and contributions in architecture.
“Members of the extended Sulman family are delighted that my great-grandfather Sir John Sulman is being so very appropriately honoured,” Sir John’s great-grandson Emeritus Professor David Carment AM said.
“He deserves this recognition for his significant contributions to Australia as an architect, patron of the arts, town planner and writer, and particularly for his vital role in Canberra’s development,” David said.
Suburban themes
Each suburb in the ACT has a theme used to help name its streets.
For Bandler, the theme will be ‘Australian Social and Cultural Life’.
For Sulman, it will be ‘Humanities and Social Sciences’.
A possible town centre
There is another suburb expected for the Molonglo Valley. This is yet to be named.
The National Capital Authority is currently considering the reclassification of the commercial centre of Molonglo as a Town Centre.
Have your say
The ACT Place Names Advisory Committee welcomes suggestions of names and feedback from the Canberra community.
More information about how places are named and how to provide feedback is available on the Place names page on the ACT Planning website.
Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Cottage program has helped young people build their confidence and capacity to return to school or other programs.
The Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) ‘Cottage’ program at North Canberra Hospital will relocate to the southside.
It will move to a new purpose-built facility in Lyons in 2026.
The CAMHS Childhood Early Intervention Program and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Program will also relocate to Lyons.
CAMHS Cottage program
The Cottage is a day program for teens with moderate to severe mental health issues. These issues impact their ability to attend school.
The program has been successful in supporting young people to make functional gains.
It also helps build their confidence and capacity to return to school or other programs.
The new location
The new Lyons location offers young people easy access to:
The ACT Government has appointed Billard Leece Partnership Pty Ltd as the design partner for the new facility.
Design input from young people, carers, clinicians and the local community will help ensure it meets the needs of staff, patients and their families.
The facility is expected to be complete in 2026. Until then, the Cottage will continue to operate at its existing site at North Canberra Hospital.
Preparing for the new hospital
This planned move represents the first step in preparing the site for demolition ahead of construction of the new northside hospital.
The ACT Government is working with clinical services on the North Canberra Hospital campus to:
Find more information on the Northside Hospital Project at builtforcbr.act.gov.au.
Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Woodlands & Wetlands Trust will use their grant to develop a self-guided interpretive trail at Mulligans Flat.
The recipients of the 2024 ACT Heritage Grants program have been announced.
This year’s program will fund 13 individual or community group projects to the value of $206,500.
Funding was prioritised for projects that:
ACT Heritage Grants program aims to help Canberrans honour many years of culture, stories and history.
Previous recipients have showcased the region’s rich history and First Nations heritage. This year’s Canberra and Region Heritage Festival program featured 22 projects funded through these grants.
This year’s selected projects include restoration of heritage places and objects, oral histories, publications and tours.
The Woodlands & Wetlands Trust
The Woodlands & Wetlands Trust will receive a $20,200 grant.
They will use this to create a self-guided interpretive trail at Mulligans Flat.
“This will showcase the geological heritage of Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary and tell stories about how geology has shaped the landscape and people’s connections to country,” CEO Dr Jason Cummings said.
The trail will give visitors to Mulligans Flat a new opportunity to engage with its natural and cultural landscape.
It will be particularly useful for school groups and will form part of the Canberra Tracks network.
“We will incorporate Ngunnawal perspectives and stories and take people on a journey through geological time. Interpretive signage will be installed to showcase local geological features and share stories about how geology shapes landscape features – water, plants, animals and people,” Jason said.
2024–25 individual recipients and projects
Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
You could spot kangaroos, koalas, platypus, echidnas, frogs, lizards, snakes and so much more.
Canberra has been given the name of the bush capital for good reason. Our bushland is the perfect habitat for a variety of native wildlife.
We’ve put together a guide for spotting native animals and birds.
Please remember that although wildlife can be cute and is exciting to see, do not:
Give our native wildlife lots of space and keep as much distance as you can to ensure you stay safe and protect their habitat.
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is home to a wide range of Australian wildlife. You could spot kangaroos, koalas, platypus, echidnas, frogs, lizards, snakes and so much more through the vast sub-alpine habitats.
There is also the Threatened Species Conservation program, which helps research and recover threatened species. This includes the Southern Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby, Northern Corroboree Frog and Grassland Earless Dragon.
Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary has a program of reintroductions of species and allows them a place to grow and thrive. A predator-proof fence protects the wildlife inside and keeps them safe from introduced predators and pests like foxes and rabbits.
A few of the native wildlife that call Mulligans Flat home were extinct on the mainland of Australian or found only in specific areas of Australia until their reintroduction. You might get lucky enough to see an Eastern Bettong, Eastern Quoll, New Holland Mouse any many more different species.
See what else Mulligans Flat has to offer.
This reserve is located next to the Kingston Foreshore and is one of the ACT’s most important wetland habitats. There are several different bird hides where you can watch birds and wildlife.
For the full wetlands experience, download the Jerrabomberra Wetlands app and choose from three route options to wander.
If you are looking for a place to view free flying birds, head to the Canberra Walk-in Aviary. You’ll find over 500 birds including nearly 60 different species from both Australia and around the world.
Do scaly reptiles pique your interest? Visit the Canberra Reptile Zoo to see native snakes, lizards, geckos and more. You can not only watch the reptiles, but you also can sign up to touch them and some special volunteers get to hold them as well.
If you’re into bird watching, the Canberra Birds site is home to all things bird-related in Canberra. Learn about different bird species, where they have been spotted and how to report and observe birds. There is also an amazing photo gallery full of the birds people have spotted.
Check out the Canberra Bird group.
Do you have a child that is obsessed with wildlife? Enrol them into one of the many young ranger programs that happen throughout the year. Kids can go on guided tours to see many different animals throughout Canberra. From frogs to birds there will be something to keep the kids fascinated.
Keep up-to-date with what’s on.
Canberra is home to over 90 amazing parks, many of which are filled with local wildlife. Search the area and see the different kinds of wildlife you come across on your travels. Whether you stay in your own suburb, or travel out to one of the national parks, you are bound to come across many interesting species.
Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific. – 
COMMENTARY: By Caitlin Johnstone
The Israeli military changed its story many times about why its forces killed 15 medical workers and then buried them and their vehicles to hide the evidence. After their initial claim that the medical vehicles were approaching “suspiciously” without their emergency lights on was disproven by video evidence, they then called the whole thing a big mistake.
Sure, who among us has not accidentally massacred 15 medical workers and buried them and their vehicles in a shallow grave from time to time? We’re only human, mistakes happen.
Asked by the press about Israel’s latest war crime scandal, White House National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes blamed the whole thing on Hamas, saying, “Hamas uses ambulances and more broadly human shields for terrorism.
A cellphone video has revealed that the IDF’s claim about ambulance lights being off was false after they shot and killed 15 Palestinian medics in Gaza.
Follow: @AFpost pic.twitter.com/shQRATG4kc
— AF Post (@AFpost) April 5, 2025
“President Trump understands the impossible situation this tactic creates for Israel and holds Hamas entirely responsible.”
Netanyahu could live stream himself eating a Palestinian baby and telling the camera “I am eating this baby because I love genocide,” and the next day Trump’s podium people would be responding to questions from the press by shrieking “HAMAS!” with their fingers in their ears.
Israeli’s ‘innocent mistake’ Video/Audio: Caitlin Johnstone
❖
To be helpful I have written some headlines the Western press can use to frame Israel executing 15 medical workers in the most positive light possible:
“Fifteen medical workers pause rescue duties following bullet-related incident”
“Rescue workers, vehicles found in shallow grave after perishing for mysterious and unknowable reasons”
“Israeli forces appear to be suspected of possibly accidentally firing on ambulance staff by mistake, perchance”
“Medical workers killed by IDF, says Hamas-affiliated United Nations”
“IDF assists medical workers in locating scene of latest massacre in Gaza”
“Jews in New York City feeling unsafe, unsupported in wake of latest Israel controversy”
“IDF to launch investigation into alleged IDF oopsie-poopsie in Gaza”
“The universe is an ineffable mystery; objectivity is a myth and our finite primate brains were not evolved to comprehend any ultimate truths about absolute reality in its naked form”
“Gunshots heard in the Middle East. A flashing siren. Innocence no more.”
“IDF hunted and slaughtered 15 healthcare workers and buried them and their vehicles to try to cover it up, please don’t fire me, that’s what happened, I’m just trying to do my job”
❖
Not taking a position on Gaza is taking a position on Gaza. One you’ll have to live with for the rest of your life.
❖
The mass media are giving so much more attention to this past weekend’s anti-Trump protests than they ever gave the anti-genocide protests because that is their job. It’s their job to amplify opposition between the two mainstream parties while marginalising those who oppose the crimes of both.
Movements which keep people plugged in to the two-party sock puppet show will always be amplified and encouraged, while movements which highlight the abusiveness of the US empire regardless of who happens to be in office will always be ignored at best and smeared at worst.
That’s why we’ve seen so much attention go into Trumpism and anti-Trumpism while genuine anti-war movements struggle to get off the ground, and while pro-Palestine demonstrators are slandered as anti-semitic terrorist supporters.
As long as people can be herded into supporting either of the two mainstream parties against the other, they are fully plugged in to the artificially manufactured worldview which protects the interests of oligarchy and empire. When people draw attention to the tyranny and abuse of the US empire itself without getting drawn in to the two-handed puppet show of party politics, they unplug their minds from this worldview the propagandists have worked so hard to plug them in to.
As long as enough people are either screaming “Trump!” or “Not Trump!”, the empire’s crimes can continue unimpeded. Only when people stop clapping along with the puppet show and start fighting against the empire itself will there be real change in a positive direction.
This means opposing the abuses that are advanced by both parties like war, genocide, militarism, imperialism, capitalism, Zionism, and authoritarianism. Until then their political energy will keep being steered in directions which pose no threat to the powerful, like we’re seeing with these anti-Trump protests.
❖
I’ve been seeing a lot of antiwar Trump supporters finally starting to admit that they were duped, and beginning to turn against him. I won’t join the voices slamming them for supporting Trump in the first place; I’ll only say welcome aboard, and congrats on being better people than everyone else who voted for Trump.
Caitlin Johnstone is an Australian independent journalist and poet. Her articles include The UN Torture Report On Assange Is An Indictment Of Our Entire Society. She publishes a website and Caitlin’s Newsletter. This article is republished with permission.
This article was first published on Café Pacific.
Source: New Zealand Police (National News)
Attributable to Detective Inspector Karen Bright:
Counties Manukau Police have launched a homicide enquiry following the discovery of a woman’s body in a vehicle in Waiuku yesterday.
Police were called to the area around 5:40pm on Friday 11 April.
A scene examination is underway, and a post-mortem will be conducted tomorrow.
A 50-year-old man has been taken into custody and is assisting Police with our enquiries.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Savannah McGuirk is using her PhD learnings to solve real-word problems through her start-up.
While completing her PhD, Savannah McGuirk discovered an industry problem that was yet to be solved.
With her research pointing the way, Savannah launched her business, Remote Water Analytics.
From research to start-up
“Research is funny like that,” Savannah said. “You never know where you going to end up.”
“I started out my PhD looking at carbon levels in soil, but soon discovered that soil moisture was impacting remote sensing satellite and drone data for carbon monitoring. What I also found, was there is no consistency in methods for monitoring soil moisture levels with optical satellite data.”
That’s when things shifted for Savanah. She saw the application of her scientific research for the purpose of solving real world industry problems.
Remote Water Analytics is in its infancy as Savannah finalises her PhD, but she’s already working with some clients. She’s using state-of-the-art remote sensing technologies, like satellites and drones alongside advanced data science, AI and machine learning to pull comprehensive insights into soil and water conditions.
“We can do soil moisture mapping as well as long and short-term soil monitoring. We can also provide geospatial data visualisation. Satellite data gives us near real-time access to accurate and actionable information,” she said.
Savannah said they can help small scale farmers or large agricultural operations to adopt more sustainable practices.
“To be honest, I was surprised there wasn’t already a product in market that could affordably, reliably and efficiently test soil moisture remotely.
“Soil sampling and testing is an expensive and labour-intensive endeavour, particularly over large areas when we’re dealing with large agricultural holdings.”
But it’s not just agricultural applications that Remote Water Analytics can deal with. Savannah is currently working with a local Canberra civil construction company who are developing a new Canberra suburb.
“Construction companies can’t work when it’s wet without damaging the surfaces which they have already carefully prepared. By accurately monitoring soil moisture levels, we can get them back on site as quickly and safely as possible after rain, ultimately helping them get their job done faster and realise real financial savings.”
ACT Government business support
Earlier this year, Savannah attended the ACT Government’s first CBR Small Business Expo. Curious to see what was on offer, she came across the Access Canberra Business Assist Team.
“I overheard them speaking to someone else, and they sounded helpful,” she said.
“It got me thinking about whether there were any permits or licences I need to operate a soil and water management business.”
Like a true Canberran, and scientist, Savannah was keen to know that she was following all the correct processes and had all the right licences and permits.
After hearing Savannah’s story, the Business Assist Team got to work on her behalf, seeking advice across government, including from the ACT Environmental Protection Authority.
Kim from the Access Canberra Business Assist Team said they were glad to provide advice to Savannah.
“Savannah’s business is a bit niche, and we were able to give her peace of mind that she was compliant with necessary regulations,” said Kim.
Savannah agreed.
“It was reassuring to be able to access the team by email and get confirmation that I had done the right things and was compliant in running my business,” she said.
As for what’s next for Savannah, her business is one of 24 across Australia participating in a business accelerator program run by the Commonwealth Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
“It’s a three-month accelerator program to support drought-resilience in Australian agriculture.
“I’m a scientist, so I’m looking forward to learning many of the skill sets I need to run and operate a successful start-up,” she said.
To find out more about the Access Canberra Business Assist Team that helped Savannah, contact the team.
Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Community gardens give easy access to fresh produce and increase the resilience of local food production.
Twelve Canberra projects have received a grant through the Community Garden Grants Program.
They will each receive a share of $100,000 in total funding.
The benefits of community gardens
Community gardens offer opportunities for local climate action.
The program also helps Canberrans connect and learn in a shared space.
The gardens give easy access to fresh produce and increase the resilience of local food production.
Havelock Community Garden
The Canberra Student Housing Co-operative is a 2024 recipient.
They plan to use their grant funds to turn the Havelock Community Garden in Turner into a communal food production space.
This will make it a place for community connection and socialising.
They also see it as a means of engaging and educating the student community on growing and maintaining a garden.
“Education is a big part of what we’re trying to do. Through the grant, we can carry out all these projects we wouldn’t have been able to do before,” Cooperative Director Benjamin Mason said.
While volunteers and skills are plentiful, cost has been a barrier.
“This grant means we will be spending less of our budget on the inventory required to run the garden. It means we can now start gardening,” Benjamin said.
Growing their own food will bring substantial cost benefits, as well as environmental and social ones.
“We have our own bulk food storage that all residents can access as part of the housing co-operative. The overarching plan is to eat the food from the garden, but anything we can’t eat fresh will be used in our pickling program,” he said.
2024 Community Garden Grant funding streams
There are two funding streams in 2024.
In Stream 1, there is a total of $40,000 to:
In Stream 2, there is a total of $60,000 to:
2024 grant recipients
Stream 1:
Stream 2:
The Community Garden Grants Program began in 2015. It has since supported 87 community garden projects.
Find more information on the Community Garden Grants program and this year’s recipients at the Everyday Climate Choices website.
The Canberra Student Housing Co-operative plans to use their grant funds to turn the Havelock Community Garden in Turner into a communal food production space.
Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
More Canberrans will have access to weekly collection of food scraps and garden waste.
The ACT Government is expanding the Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) collection pilot. From September, the pilot will include more than 1,150 households in multi-unit developments in Belconnen and Tuggeranong.
The FOGO pilot began in November 2021. Each week food scraps and garden waste are collected from about 5,300 households in:
From September, the collection pilot will service more Canberrans, including:
These homes will be in multi-development units.
About one-third of items put into household rubbish bins in the ACT is food. This is equal to around 26,000 tonnes of food waste going to landfill each year.
Since the pilot began, it has diverted more than 3,475 tonnes of food and garden waste from landfill. This material has been turned into valuable compost. This supports a circular economy within the ACT and reduces the amount of harmful greenhouse gas emissions that come from our landfill.
The Belconnen and Tuggeranong households added to the pilot will continue to provide information. This data will inform a future Canberra-wide rollout of FOGO. It will also provide insights to help improve waste management practices for multi-unit developments.
Participating households will receive a letter to announce their involvement. There will also be information sessions over the coming weeks. Details will be provided to residents and building managers on the correct use of FOGO in their buildings.
Those households will get an easy-to-use kitchen caddy with compostable liner bags for food scraps. They will also get access to a light green lidded FOGO bin within their shared waste enclosures. There will be no changes to regular bin collections within the expansion areas.
For more information on the FOGO pilot, visit: www.cityservices.act.gov.au.
Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
New and improved facilities will allow community organisations to offer a welcoming, secure and inclusive environment.
The Watson Health Precinct upgrades are moving ahead.
Plans have been conditionally approved and a Head Contractor appointed.
Important upgrades
Community health organisations have provided vital rehabilitation services from the precinct for almost 20 years.
New facilities will replace the site’s ageing infrastructure. This will help these organisations ensure a welcoming, secure and inclusive environment for people as they recover.
It will also allow them to double their capacity in the future.
The ACT Government will build new facilities in the precinct for:
“Seeking support for drug and alcohol treatment is a massive step for any young person to undertake. Having a space that is designed and created to allow for young people to feel safe, comfortable and promotes treatment removes one barrier to young people accessing support. We welcome the ACT Government’s commitment to improve the treatment options for young people in the ACT,” the Ted Noffs Foundation said.
“Young people struggling with mental health concerns deserve and will appreciate the new welcoming and fresh interiors, inspiring the sense of new beginnings and motivation to work towards their identified mental health recovery goals,” Marymead CatholicCare Canberra & Goulburn said.
A new facility for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
The precinct will also expand. A new alcohol and other drugs rehabilitation facility for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will be built.
It will be a residential facility with 24 beds.
Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health and Community Services (Winnunga) will run the service.
Winnunga has led the facility’s design and will be responsible for its construction and operation.
This partnership will help ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people receive culturally appropriate care for the best possible recovery.
Monarch Building Solutions has been engaged as the Head Contractor for the work on the existing services.
They will work with Winnunga and their Head Contractor as they build their new facility.
Construction is expected to be completed in early 2026.
Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Palmerville Heritage Park sits in an historic cultural space near McKellar, Evatt and Giralang.
The ACT Government will build a new loop path through Palmerville Heritage Park.
It will be approximately 650 metres long.
The park is a popular open space in north Belconnen.
It sits in an historic cultural landscape near McKellar, Evatt and Giralang.
This location represents a connection to the early rural settlement of the ACT. There is evidence of past land use in this area as a rural settlement from the early 1800s to the 1950s.
Canberrans have requested the continuation of the park’s existing walking trail to create a loop.
This will help people better explore the area.
Ginninderra Creek runs along the park’s east side. As the area is flood prone, this will influence the final alignment of the path and the materials used to build it.
Once heritage and environment approvals are complete, the final alignment will be released ahead of construction procurement.
Construction procurement is expected to begin in early 2025.
Find out more about the path on the City Services website.
Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
A climate-wise garden can create a shady haven for your family while providing a habitat for native animals and insects.
Spring is a great time of year to plan your summer garden.
Whether you have a large yard, a small courtyard or balcony, you can create a beautiful garden that:
By planning your climate-wise garden, you can lower the temperature around your home. This can help you save energy and reduce your cooling bills during the hot months.
Canberra’s climate is changing. This means we will have:
Roads, footpaths and buildings absorb the sun’s heat and makes urban areas hotter than nearby green spaces.
Living infrastructure (like the plants and trees in your garden) can reduce urban heat during hotter weather and heatwaves.
A climate-wise garden has plants that consider sun, shade and water needs, and frost tolerance.
The ACT Government’s Canberra Plant Selector is a free online tool that can help you choose the best plants for your climate-wise garden.
You can search for plants suited to Canberra’s climate based on sun, shade, frost tolerance and water needs. Not sure what exactly you’re looking for? Use the handy quiz feature to get some recommendations tailored to your space.
Find the Canberra Plant Selector tool here.
Don’t have space for a tree? Adding greenery to a westerly facing wall can help keep it cool during those hot summer afternoons. You can also consider an overhead trellis or placing some plants on your balcony or veranda. Another option is to install a shade structure, such as a sail.
Planting only grass or groundcover won’t help you beat the heat. Grass and other forms of ground cover are coolest when irrigated or combined with shrubs and trees that also provide shade.
If you already have trees and shade in your space, installing a small pond or other water feature can help keep things even cooler. Ponds can also provide habitat for frogs and insects, as well as providing a welcome respite for local wildlife.
Having a climate-wise garden isn’t just about keeping your own home cool. Landowners, builders and the community play an important role in reducing Canberra’s urban heat.
The ACT Government is helping the Territory to adapt to the effects of climate change through living infrastructure like trees and plants.
As Canberra’s urban environment grows and evolves, the ACT Government is committed to ensuring our tree canopy and living infrastructure also expands.
By 2045, across Canberra’s urban footprint, the ACT Government aims to achieve:
Canberra’s Living Infrastructure Plan outlines how we can nurture and grow our natural assets. The Plan will grow our urban forest, make our city and buildings more climate resilient and empower the community with the tools and resources to become climate ready.
Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)
Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) announced he is once again cosponsoring the bipartisan, bicameral Invest to Protect Act, reintroduced in the House of Representatives by Congressmen Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05),John Rutherford (FL-05), and Steven Horsford (NV-04) this week. This critical legislation would make targeted investments in small and midsize departments with fewer than 175 sworn police officers, providing vital funds for recruitment, retention, training, and officer support.
During the 117th Congress, the bipartisan Invest to Protect Act overwhelmingly passed the House with 360 votes. Other versions of the legislation have also passed the Senate. Despite broad support, a final agreed-upon bill has not yet fully passed out of Congress. This reintroduction renews the effort to deliver critical support to law enforcement officers serving communities across the country.
“New Hampshire’s local law enforcement does critical work to keep our communities and our families safe, and this bipartisan legislation will ensure they have the resources and training needed to do their jobs,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “By making increased funding available to our local departments, this legislation will improve recruitment, retention, mental health support for officers and ensure they have the support to keep our communities safe. Whether they are keeping deadly fentanyl and other illegal drugs off our streets, protecting individuals from violent crime, or acting as first responders to physical and mental health emergencies, our local police departments do lifesaving work each and every day, and this legislation will help support their work and keep Granite Staters safe.”
The bipartisan, bicameral Invest to Protect Act of 2025 would:
The critical need to support small and midsized police departments:
Read the full bill text here.
The bipartisan Invest to Protect Act is endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE), the National Troopers Coalition,the National Sheriffs’ Association, Sergeants Benevolent Association (SBA), National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA), and the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA).
“The Fraternal Order of Police applauds the recent reintroduction of the ‘Invest to Protect Act’ in the House. This crucial piece of legislation would establish a program within the U.S. Department of Justice to provide grants to small departments for their training, recruitment and retention, college tuition, and social services like therapy and treatment. Year after year, this bill has remained a priority of the FOP. We owe it to our smaller departments to better equip them with the tools they need to carry out their duties to the best of their ability as they work tirelessly to protect our communities. We appreciate the leadership of Representatives Gottheimer and Rutherford to introduce this bill in the House. We look forward to working closely with Congress to ensure this gets across the finish line,” said the Fraternal Order of Police.
“On behalf of the National Tactical Officers Association and its over 40,000 members nationwide, I am proud to support the Invest to Protect Act,” said Thor Eells, Executive Director of the National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA). “This bipartisan legislation is a needed step in providing critical training and equipment to smaller and rural police departments to help ensure the health, security, and safety of both law enforcement and the citizenry that they are sworn to protect.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)
WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) and Senator Edward Markey of Massachusetts today led 59 Congressional colleagues in a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin requesting a list of companies seeking a Presidential Exemption under the Clean Air Act. The letter also requests information about how the companies claim the exemption would be in the national security interests of the United States, whether technical issues make meeting existing standards difficult, and other details about the companies’ requests. See the letter below.
Congressman Cohen made the following statement:
“The Clean Air Act is a foundational law that protects public health and the environment by regulating air emissions from stationary and mobile sources. While the Act allows for limited exemptions in certain circumstances, it is vital that these exemptions not be granted arbitrarily or behind closed doors — especially when they will result in increased pollution and potentially harm public health.”
Senator Markey made this statement:
“Rather than protect the health of all Americans by enforcing existing rules and regulations designed to reduce the risk and incidence of cancer caused by air pollution, the Trump administration is instead handing out polluter privilege passes — opening a VIP lane and an email inbox for coal plants and chemical giants to dodge Clean Air Act rules. Families in fenceline communities don’t get to opt out of breathing mercury, arsenic, and other toxics. These clean air protections save lives — up to 11,000 every year — and the public has a right to know who’s trying to dodge them. I’m proud to join Representative Cohen in demanding transparency and accountability. The Clean Air Act was written to protect people, not polluters.”
The letter reads in part:
“We are writing to request a comprehensive list of companies that have requested a Presidential Exemption under the Clean Air Act, as outlined by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on March 24, 2025. Given the EPA’s mission to protect human health and the environment, the Administration’s expressed commitment to transparency, and your own written and oral testimony to the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee during your confirmation hearing, we believe it is imperative that the EPA disclose which companies are seeking to circumvent current environmental regulations.
“We request that you expeditiously provide the names of all companies that requested a presidential exemption under the Clean Air Act and the details of their exemption request, including 1) any emissions standards or limitations subject to the request, facility(ies) and/or affected sources, 2) the length of compliance period being requested, 3) their explanation why the technology to implement the standard is not available, and 4) their explanation why an extension is in the national security interests of the United States. Please also include which of these companies, if any, expressed an intention to submit proprietary information.
“We would also like to know how your agency plans to evaluate and announce which companies are granted a presidential exemption and which applied but are denied. We expect all of this information to be made easily available to the public, as the Trump Administration repeatedly states that it is the ‘most transparent administration in history.’ ”
The lawmakers ask to see the information by Friday, April 18.
See the entire letter here.
The letter request is endorsed by the Center for Biological Diversity, EarthJustice, EcoMadres, the Environmental Defense Fund, the League of Conservation Voters, Moms Clean Air Force, Rise4EJ, the Sierra Club, and the Southern Environmental Law Center.
# # #
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Marc Veasey (33rd District of Texas)
Headline: Veasey, Doggett, Fletcher Lead Texas Democrats in Letter to CDC Condemning Mass Firings and Vaccine Misinformation Amid Measles Outbreak
Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Marc Veasey, Lloyd Doggett, and Lizzie Fletcher led Texas Democrats in sending a letter to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Acting Director Dr. Susan Monarez expressing deep concern over the surging measles outbreak in Texas and across the country. The lawmakers requested an urgent, detailed report on the CDC’s efforts to contain the outbreak, combat vaccine misinformation, and assess the impact of workforce reductions on outbreak response.
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has reported 259 confirmed cases of measles, including 34 hospitalizations and the tragic death of an unvaccinated school-aged child. The outbreak has disproportionately impacted school-aged children.
“We write to you with deep concern and grave urgency regarding the unprecedented spread of measles across the United States, with Texas at the epicenter of this alarming crisis.” The Representatives wrote. “We are troubled that anti-vaccine misinformation, cuts to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevent (CDC) workforce, and reductions of public health funding will threaten the country’s ability to respond to the current measles outbreak, and future public health threats.”
The lawmakers raised alarm over the dangerous spread of anti-vaccine misinformation, including mixed messaging from Health and Human Services (HHS). Notably, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has publicly downplayed the effectiveness of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, falsely suggesting that “natural immunity” from measles infection is preferable, while promoting alternative treatments such as Vitamin A supplements and cod liver oil.
“Suggesting that children are better off contracting measles during an unprecedented outbreak is not only dangerous, but instills further distrust in the very safe and effective MMR vaccine amongst Americans,” the letter states.
The lawmakers also condemned the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) for mass firings at the CDC, including the layoff of at least 750 public health workers—many of whom were critical to outbreak response efforts. These cuts, along with a shift away from real-time public health data reporting, have significantly weakened the nation’s ability to contain infectious disease outbreaks.
“With more than 70% of the CDC’s budget supporting state and local health departments, any cuts will have catastrophic consequences,” the lawmakers warned. “The CDC must have the necessary funding and personnel to protect American communities from infectious disease outbreaks.”
The letter calls on the CDC to provide a detailed briefing on its plans to contain the outbreak, restore public confidence in vaccination, and describe how cuts have impacted the agency’s ability to fulfill its public health mission.
“The people of Texas, and the entire country, rely on your agency’s leadership to address this outbreak and ensure that no more children suffer preventable harm,” the lawmakers concluded. “We look forward to your prompt response.”
The complete text of the letter can be read here:
.
###
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) and U.S. Representatives Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Sarah Elfreth (MD-03), April McClain Delaney (MD-06), and Johnny Olszewski (MD-02) released the following statement after the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that the Trump Administration must facilitate the return of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a Maryland immigrant the administration deported in ‘error’ to a Salvadoran mega-prison where he remains:
“The Trump Administration admitted that the deportation of Mr. Abrego Garcia, which had no legal basis, was done in ‘administrative error,’ and a federal district judge ordered them to return him to the United States by midnight this Monday. Rather than bring back the man they admitted they wrongfully deported without Due Process, the Trump Administration amazingly placed on leave the Justice Department attorney who argued the case simply for telling the truth about the Administration’s ‘administrative error.’
“In a big victory for the rule of law and Due Process, the Supreme Court has just ruled that the Administration must facilitate Mr. Abrego Garcia’s return to the United States. The Supreme Court is effectively on the side of the vast majority of Americans and the civilized world who reject this lapse into lawlessness and insist that Mr. Abrego Garcia be returned to his family in the U.S. immediately.
“The Administration must now act swiftly to ensure that Mr. Abrego Garcia, who was grabbed off the streets of Maryland, shackled, and flown to a Salvadoran mega-prison, is brought back home safely to his loved ones and without any further delay.
“During the first Trump Administration in 2019, Kilmar won withholding of removal, a legal status that specifically prohibits his removal to El Salvador. He was granted this status after the administration accused him, without any evidence, of gang membership and tried to deport him. A judge found instead that he had credibly proven his fear of persecution by a gang in El Salvador and that he posed no threat to public safety.
“The Trump Administration admits it made an ‘error’ deporting Mr. Abrego Garcia. Contrary to what administration officials say, President Trump has both the duty and the power to bring this man back to Maryland to his American wife and child.
“We say to the president that, if you have the means to sweep someone off the street in America and deport him to a torturer’s prison in El Salvador, where we are paying their government as our junior partner for this dubious service, then you certainly have or you can find the means to bring him back. This should be easy since the El Salvadoran government is acting as our agent in the affair as part of this shocking agreement with the Trump Administration.”
“If Trump is allowed to get away with this thorough destruction of Due Process in Mr. Abrego Garcia’s case, he will believe that his administration can sweep anyone—citizen or noncitizen—off the street and ship them to a prison in an authoritarian state and escape judicial review. A whole lot rests on the return of Mr. Abrego Garcia to his family.”