Headline: Parkline Place new workplace hub for NSW Government agencies
Published: 30 January 2025
Released by: Minister for Lands and Property
The NSW Government is set to take up residence in a new workplace hub in the heart of Sydney from early 2025.
Parkline Place is a 39-storey energy efficient tower building located on the corner of Pitt and Park Streets above Gadigal metro station. The development has created 600 construction jobs and will support up to 4000 workers spanning across the government and private sectors.
The NSW Government’s central property agency, Property and Development NSW (PDNSW) has negotiated the lease arrangements for the four agencies, and is leading the CBD Workplace Hub design and delivery project, which aims to provide modern and sustainable government workplaces as public sector workers return to the office.
The lease arrangements are as follows:
A 12-year lease for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), with the agency now occupying four floors since the start of January.
A 12-year lease for the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) and the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) for flexible touchdown space across three floors. The agencies are due to move into the building from April 2025.
A 13-and-a-half-year lease for the Crown Solicitor’s Office (CSO) to occupy three full floors, plus another floor partially, with the agency set to relocate in mid-2026.
The leases support the NSW Government’s net zero emissions targets. Parkline Place is fully electric and powered by renewable energy, and targets net zero scope 1 and 2 emissions in operation. It is also designed to achieve 5.5-star NABERS Energy, 3.5-star NABERS Water, and 6-star Green Star Design and As-Built V1.3 sustainability ratings.
The development has been delivered and will be managed by Investa, on behalf of co-owners Oxford Properties Group and Mitsubishi Estate Asia, with four government agencies to occupy more than 10 floors in the building.
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:
“Our leases at Parkline Place will provide public servants with quality and sustainable modern workplaces. They will support flexibility and increased collaboration to deliver better service outcomes for the people of NSW.”
Investa Head of Leasing Mark Podgornik said:
“We are delighted to welcome the NSW Government this year as one of the first tenants at Parkline Place.”
“Many major employers are progressively bringing employees back to the office and placing significant value on creating a desirable workplace experience for their people through access to amenity, connected and sustainable workplaces. We are pleased to help facilitate this at Parkline Place.”
Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) Secretary Kiersten Fishburn said:
“This new touchdown space offers a great opportunity for our Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure’s employees to access modern facilities conveniently located near the new Metro and other excellent transport options. It also provides a prime location for them to engage with sector colleagues and key stakeholders in the heart of Sydney’s CBD.”
Headline: Sydney to host Rugby World Cup final and semi-finals
Published: 30 January 2025
Released by: The Premier, Minister for Jobs, Minister for Sport, Minister for Tourism
NSW is the big winner from the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 host city announcement, with our state set to host more games than any other, including both semi-finals and the final.
The third largest sporting event in the world, the Rugby World Cup has delivered decades of drama including Wallabies glory, extra-time heartbreak and Nelson Mandela hoisting the trophy alongside the Springboks.
All of that history, along with 24 national teams, an estimated 215,000 visitors, and hundreds of millions of global TV viewers, will culminate in NSW for six weeks in October and November in 2027.
The host city agreement has resulted in 17 of a total 52 games being played in NSW, with Newcastle hosting four pool matches and Sydney hosting 13 fixtures, including five pool matches, two Round of 16 matches, two quarter-finals, both semi-finals, the bronze final and the final set to take place at Stadium Australia on November 13.
Destination NSW estimates the tournament will inject more than $610 million into the state’s visitor economy and be Sydney’s biggest sport event in over 20 years.
In addition to the direct social and economic benefits, the right to host the finals will mean Sydney is centre stage for the global television audience, providing immeasurable marketing impact for the NSW visitor economy.
The announcement confirms NSW as a premier destination for world class sporting events including the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, Sail GP and the Sydney Marathon which recently gained world marathon major status.
Supporting major events is a key part of the Minns Labor Government’s strategy to grow the visitor economy. In October the government committed to a new ambitious growth target of $91 billion of visitor expenditure by 2035, a 40% increase on the previous 2030 goal.
Sydney has a proud Rugby World Cup history, having hosted six games during the inaugural tournament in 1987 and 16 games – including the final – when Australia last hosted in 2003. The NSW Government is also proud to support this year’s British and Irish Lions Tour while Australia will also host the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2029.
In the lead up to the event Chair of Destination NSW Sally Loane will lead a committee tasked with maximising the tourism opportunities of hosting the Men’s Rugby World Cup.
NSW Premier Chris Minns said:
“It’s great to see NSW come out on top – securing hosting rights to the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027.
“Staging the finals and having more matches than any other state, demonstrates just how attractive NSW is as a destination for global sporting events.
“To all those keen rugby fans across the globe – it’s time to lock in your travel plans. Not only will you get to watch some fantastic sport, but you will also get to tour the best state in the world, home to extraordinary national parks and unparalleled Harbour views.”
Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham said:
“With more games than any other state, NSW will be the home of the tournament which means hundreds of thousands of fans will travel here and experience what our incredible state has to offer.”
“The stadiums and the streets of Sydney and Newcastle will be absolutely buzzing during the Men’s Rugby World Cup in 2027.
“Hosting world class events is a key part of our strategy to significantly grow the NSW visitor economy over the next ten years.”
“My message to rugby fans around the world is – come for the rucks and mauls, stay for the food, the wine, the beaches and cultural experiences!”
Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:
“Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 will be a festival of rugby union like no other that will inspire the next generation of players.
“The choice of Sydney to host the tournament’s final match – along with both semi-finals and the bronze final – reflects the city’s position as world class sporting events capital, and the NSW Government is excited to welcome the world’s best rugby teams – and their fans – in 2027.
“For 6 weeks, we are going to be centre stage for the sporting world.
World Rugby Chair, Brett Robinson said:
“We are delighted to reach another significant milestone on our journey to Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027. The selection of these incredible host cities reflects our commitment to bring Rugby World Cup to Australians’ backyard and maximise the tournament’s positive impact and sporting legacy in all host communities.
“Australia’s iconic cities and rich culture will create an extraordinary atmosphere for fans and players alike, uniting an entire nation for six unforgettable weeks. We look forward to working with host cities to make this tournament one for the ages.”
Euroa Fire Brigade has been recognised for their exemplary community service in CFA’s Fire Medical Response (FMR) Program, going beyond their primary mission of firefighting.
On Sunday, 26 January, the brigade was officially awarded the title of Community Organisation of the Year as voted by the Euroa community for their strong commitment and dedication in this space.
CFA and Ambulance Victoria (AV) rolled out the new FMR program in December 2024 that sees CFA brigades dispatched simultaneously to cardiac arrests with the nearest ambulance, allowing CFA crews to provide life-saving CPR, defibrillation, and support to patients.
Euroa was one of the first brigades to sign up to provide life-saving support in response to Triple Zero (000) calls alongside Tatura, Numurkah, Yarrawonga, Huntly, Kyneton, Bairnsdale, Orbost and Lakes Entrance brigades.
Captain of 15 years, Damon Rieusset said any acknowledgement from your peers is something to be proud of, but members were just happy to be of assistance to rural families in need.
“Although it is only in its infancy, it is nice for our members to be recognised for the efforts they put in. We’re all ready and willing to go when needed,” Damon said.
“What it brings for the community is the greatest part. If it stops a family wondering if they could’ve done more, that’s the most important thing.”
The team is currently made up of more than 14 volunteers who have completed more than 40 hours of professional face to face training by AV and over 16 hours of online training to be deemed competent to provide this vital service.
“Everyone who put their hand up to do the training knew it wasn’t going to be an easy day in the office, but it’s for the greater good and we would highly recommend other brigades get involved in the program if they can,” Damon said.
“Most of our members have done first aid training and were comfortable walking into the sessions with basic knowledge.
“However, it’s been pleasing to see the members gain the additional expertise and advance their abilities – all which will go a long way in providing them with greater confidence when faced with the task.”
The Rotary Club of Euroa nominated the brigade for the esteemed title, noting their efforts have not only improved the safety and wellbeing of the Euroa community, but also strengthened the bonds that hold the community together.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
“M” Mark status awarded to FWD Insurance Chinese New Year Cup 2025 “M” Mark status awarded to FWD Insurance Chinese New Year Cup 2025 ****************************************************************************
The following is issued on behalf of the Major Sports Events Committee: The Major Sports Events Committee (MSEC) has awarded “M” Mark status to FWD Insurance Chinese New Year Cup 2025, which will be held at the Hong Kong Stadium on February 1, 2025. The Chairman of the MSEC, Mr Wilfred Ng, said today (January 30) ”The Chinese New Year Cup is deeply rooted in Hong Kong’s history and is one of the traditional celebration activities during the Chinese New Year. The MSEC has awarded the ‘M’ Mark status to FWD Insurance Chinese New Year Cup 2025 to honour its contribution to the promotion of sports culture during the festive period.” The “M” Mark System aims to encourage and help local national sports associations and private or non-government organisations to organise more major international sports events and nurture them into sustainable undertakings. Sports events meeting the assessment criteria will be considered for “M” Mark status by the MSEC. Funding support will also be provided to some events. For details of “M” Mark events, please visit www.mevents.org.hk.
Ends/Thursday, January 30, 2025Issued at HKT 13:05
In a fervent appeal to the global community, Prime Minister James Marape of Papua New Guinea has called on US President Donald Trump to “rethink” his decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement and current global climate initiatives.
Marape’s plea came during the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting held in Davos, Switzerland, on 23 January 2025.
Expressing deep concern for the impacts of climate change on Papua New Guinea and other vulnerable Pacific Island nations, Marape highlighted the dire consequences these nations face due to rising sea levels and increasingly severe weather patterns.
“The effects of climate change are not just theoretical for us; they have real, devastating impacts on our fragile economies and our way of life,” he said.
The Prime Minister emphasised that while it was within President Trump’s prerogative to prioritise American interests, withdrawing the United States — the second-largest emitter of carbon dioxide– from the Paris Agreement without implementing measures to curtail coal power production was “totally irresponsible”, Marape said.
“As a leader of a major forest and ocean nation in the Pacific region, I urge President Trump to reconsider his decision.”
He went on to point out the contradiction in the US stance.
US not closing coal plants “The United States is not shutting down any of its coal power plants yet has chosen to withdraw from critical climate efforts. This is fundamentally irresponsible.
“The science regarding our warming planet is clear — it does not lie,” he said.
Marape further articulated that as the “Leader of the Free World,” Trump had a moral obligation to engage with global climate issues.
PNG Prime Minister James Marape’s plea to President Trump. Video: PNGTV
“It is morally wrong for President Trump to disregard the pressing challenges of climate change.
He must articulate how he intends to address this critical issue,” he added, stressing that effective global leaders had a responsibility not only to their own nations but also to the planet as a whole.
In a bid to advocate for small island nations that are bearing the brunt of climate impacts, PM Marape announced plans to bring this issue to the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum (PIF).
He hopes to unify the voices of PIF member countries in a collective statement regarding the US withdrawal from climate negotiations.
US revived Pacific relations “The United States has recently revitalised its relations with the Pacific. It is discouraging to see it retreating from climate discussions that significantly affect our region’s efforts to mitigate climate change,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape reminded the international community that while larger nations might have the capacity to withstand extreme weather events such as typhoons, wildfires, and tornadoes, smaller nations like Papua New Guinea could not endure such impacts.
“For us, every storm and rising tide represents a potential crisis. Big nations can afford to navigate these challenges, but for us, the stakes are incredibly high,” he said.
Marape’s appeal underscores the urgent need for collaborative and sustained global action to combat climate change, particularly for nations like Papua New Guinea, which are disproportionately affected by environmental change.
This week the World Health Organization (WHO) released new guidelines recommending people switch the regular salt they use at home for substitutes containing less sodium.
But what exactly are these salt alternatives? And why is the WHO recommending this? Let’s take a look.
A new solution to an old problem
Advice to eat less salt (sodium chloride) is not new. It has been part of international and Australian guidelines for decades. This is because evidence clearly shows the sodium in salt can harm our health when we eat too much of it.
Excess sodium increases the risk of high blood pressure, which affects millions of Australians (around one in three adults). High blood pressure (hypertension) in turn increases the risk of heart disease, stroke and kidney disease, among other conditions.
The WHO estimates 1.9 million deaths globally each year can be attributed to eating too much salt.
The WHO recommends consuming no more than 2g of sodium daily. However people eat on average more than double this, around 4.3g a day.
In 2013, WHO member states committed to reducing population sodium intake by 30% by 2025. But cutting salt intake has proved very hard. Most countries, including Australia, will not meet the WHO’s goal for reducing sodium intake by 2025. They WHO has since set the same target for 2030.
The difficulty is that eating less salt means accepting a less salty taste. It also requires changes to established ways of preparing food. This has proved too much to ask of people making food at home, and too much for the food industry.
The main lower-sodium salt substitute is called potassium-enriched salt. This is salt where some of the sodium chloride has been replaced with potassium chloride.
Potassium is an essential mineral, playing a key role in all the body’s functions. The high potassium content of fresh fruit and vegetables is one of the main reasons they’re so good for you. While people are eating more sodium than they should, many don’t get enough potassium.
The WHO recommends a daily potassium intake of 3.5g, but on the whole, people in most countries consume significantly less than this.
Potassium-enriched salt benefits our health by cutting the amount of sodium we consume, and increasing the amount of potassium in our diets. Both help to lower blood pressure.
Switching regular salt for potassium-enriched salt has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and premature death in large trials around the world.
Modelling studies have projected that population-wide switches to potassium-enriched salt use would prevent hundreds of thousands of deaths from cardiovascular disease (such as heart attack and stroke) each year in China and India alone.
The key advantage of switching rather than cutting salt intake is that potassium-enriched salt can be used as a direct one-for-one swap for regular salt. It looks the same, works for seasoning and in recipes, and most people don’t notice any important difference in taste.
In the largest trial of potassium-enriched salt to date, more than 90% of people were still using the product after five years.
If fully implemented, this could be one of the most consequential pieces of advice the WHO has ever provided.
Millions of strokes and heart attacks could be prevented worldwide each year with a simple switch to the way we prepare foods. But there are some obstacles to overcome before we get to this point.
First, it will be important to balance the benefits and the risks. For example, people with advanced kidney disease don’t handle potassium well and so these products are not suitable for them. This is only a small proportion of the population, but we need to ensure potassium-enriched salt products are labelled with appropriate warnings.
A key challenge will be making potassium-enriched salt more affordable and accessible. Potassium chloride is more expensive to produce than sodium chloride, and at present, potassium-enriched salt is mostly sold as a niche health product at a premium price.
If you’re looking for it, salt substitutes may also be called low-sodium salt, potassium salt, heart salt, mineral salt, or sodium-reduced salt.
A review published in 2021 found low sodium salts were marketed in only 47 countries, mostly high-income ones. Prices ranged from the same as regular salt to almost 15 times higher.
An expanded supply chain that produces much more food-grade potassium chloride will be needed to enable wider availability of the product. And we’ll need to see potassium-enriched salt on the shelves next to regular salt so it’s easy for people to find.
In countries like Australia, about 80% of the salt we eat comes from processed foods. The WHO guideline falls short by not explicitly prioritising a switch for the salt used in food manufacturing.
Stakeholders working with government to encourage food industry uptake will be essential for maximising the health benefits.
Bruce Neal receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia and MTP Connect, for research on potassium-enriched salts. All funds are administered by UNSW Sydney and The George Institute for Global Health.
Xiaoyue (Luna) Xu 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.
Headline: Sales, Production, and Export Results for 2024 (January – December)
Toyota City, Japan, January 30, 2025 Toyota Motor Corporation announces its sales, production, and export results for December 2024 as well as the cumulative total from January to December 2024, including those for subsidiaries Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. and Hino Motors, Ltd.
Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –
A delegation from Kim Il Sung University, the leading university in the DPRK, visited Novosibirsk State University. During the visit, representatives of the two universities agreed to intensify inter-university cooperation, the priority areas of which are student and faculty mobility, joint scientific conferences and scientific research in the following priority areas – chemistry, mathematics, information technology and new materials. To more effectively organize joint work, the parties will prepare a roadmap (work plan) for the coming year.
Kim Il Sung University was represented by Rector Kim Seung Chan, deans of the faculties of Materials Science and Chemistry, Director of the Institute for Advanced Technology Development, Director of the Department of International Relations, Head of the Department of Juche Philosophy of the Faculty of Philosophy, and Head of the Department of Russian Language and Literature of the Faculty of Foreign Languages and Literature. NSU was represented by Rector, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Mikhail Fedoruk, deans Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics And Faculty of Natural Sciences Igor Marchuk and Vladimir Reznikov, Head of the Education Export Department Evgeny Sagaydak. Also present at the meeting was Svetlana Malina, Head of the Department of Professional Education and Higher Education of the Ministry of Education of the Novosibirsk Region.
Mikhail Fedoruk, Rector of NSU, mentioned the long-standing historical ties not only between Russia, but also between Novosibirsk and North Korea, stressed that it is a great honor for NSU to be friends with Kim Il Sung University, and expressed readiness to implement joint projects in the educational and scientific spheres in the very near future.
“In the current historical period, the traditional Korean-Russian friendly relations have turned into a comprehensive strategic partnership. We hope that in the future, cooperation between our two universities will expand to a new, higher level in accordance with the common interests and aspirations of the peoples,” said the rector of the North Korean university, Kim Seung-chan, in his welcoming speech.
The universities agreed to cooperate in the following areas:
– organization of student internships from one to three months, conducting research work at NSU and research institutes of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences;
– joint research in the field of cutting-edge technologies;
– inviting teachers to teach courses;
– preparation of joint scientific publications.
— Novosibirsk State University is one of the leaders in the field of education export and international cooperation. We, as a ministry, support the expansion of cooperation between the two universities and are ready to provide all possible assistance in organizing joint events, conferences and internships, — emphasized Svetlana Malina.
Among the upcoming events that North Korean university students can take part in are: International scientific student conference of NSU, which has been held practically since the university’s founding, traditionally in April, and will be held for the 63rd time this year; and Big Mathematical Workshop, which is organized by Mathematical center in Akademgorodok and the Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics of NSU. The workshop has been held for 5 years, usually in the summer, and in 2024 it became international for the first time – students from one of the Chinese universities took part in it. NSU also invited a student delegation from a North Korean university to take part in the events of Interweek, which will be held at the end of April.
In 2026, Kim Il Sung University celebrates its 80th anniversary, and a delegation from NSU plans to take part in an international scientific conference organized by the North Korean university as part of the anniversary events.
The two universities are also considering the possibility of jointly preparing schoolchildren for admission to Russian universities on the basis of SUNC NSU.
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANFERNEE D. DANCY, 28, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford to 46 months of imprisonment, followed by 30 months of supervised release, for unlawful possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on August 22, 2023, Waterbury Police attempted to stop an SUV Dancy was driving in Waterbury. Dancy reversed the SUV, collided with one of the police cruisers, and attempted to flee on foot. After a struggle, he was taken into custody. A search of the SUV revealed a loaded Jimenez Arms, Inc. 9mm handgun, a quantity of crack cocaine, a digital scale, and $282 in cash.
Dancy’s criminal history includes felony convictions in Connecticut for burglary in the first degree, risk of injury to children, and failure to appear in the first degree. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
Dancy has been detained since his arrest. On October 7, 2024, he pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Waterbury Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean P. Mahard.
This prosecution was brought through the Justice’s Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program, a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In May 2021, the Justice 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. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit www.justice.gov/psn.
Nine years of negotiations between the Crown and iwi of Taranaki have concluded following Te Pire Whakatupua mō Te Kāhui Tupua/the Taranaki Maunga Collective Redress Bill passing its third reading in Parliament today, Treaty Negotiations Minister Paul Goldsmith says.
“This Bill addresses the historical grievances endured by the eight iwi of Taranaki, and the longstanding association Ngā Iwi o Taranaki have with their ancestral mountains.
“Arrangements include the National Park being renamed Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki, and the highest peak having its name changed to Taranaki Maunga.
“They also include the recognition of a legal person, repealing the Mount Egmont Vesting Act 1978, the vesting of the National Park land in Te Kāhui Tupua, recognition of a set of values to guide decision-making within the national park, and the establishment of a statutory body to act as the human face and voice of the legal personality.
“A firm condition for the Crown, is that all New Zealanders will be able to continue to visit and enjoy this most magnificent place for generations to come. It has been agreed that access to the mountain will not change.
“The Crown formally and publicly recognises the hardship and heartache it has caused whānau and hapū, and recognises the resilience of Ngā Iwi o Taranaki in the face of such adversity.
“We must acknowledge the hurt that has been caused by past wrongs, so we can look to the future to support iwi to realise their own aspirations and opportunities.
“I want to acknowledge the hard work of the iwi and Crown negotiators to reach this momentous day. It has been a long journey, since Ngā Iwi o Taranaki signed the Terms of Negotiation in 2016.”
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) spokesperson advises chipsealing work will take place on State Highway 1 Kamo Bypass overnight on Sunday 2 February, with temporary traffic management remaining in place until contractors return to sweep and line mark overnight on Monday 3 February.
This work had been scheduled to happen earlier this month, following resurfacing works, but was delayed due to poor weather.
Between 8pm Sunday night and 5am Monday morning, the road will operate under stop/go with a 30km/h temporary speed limit in place. Between 5am and 8pm on Monday, the road will operate with a lane shift and 50km/h temporary speed limit in place to help bed in the new seal.
It’s important to slow down through newly sealed sections of road because small chips can be flicked up from the road surface and damage vehicles – especially windscreens. That’s why we often keep temporary speed limits in place even after it looks like the work has been completed. As well as safety, the temporary speed limit also helps ensure the quality of the reseal. Travelling at the posted temporary speed limit allows for the chips to be embedded into the road surface and for them to remain in place as the seal cures.
Contractors will then return to undertake sweeping and line marking between 8pm Monday night and 5am Tuesday morning under stop/go and a 30km/h temporary speed limit.
Chipsealing helps ensure a smooth, skid-resistant surface, free of potholes and slippery sections to reduce the risk of crashes and help keep everyone traveling on our roads safe.
Travel delays during these works are expected to be between 5-10 minutes.
We appreciate there may be more traffic on the roads on Monday morning as people travel to work and some schools returning for the year, and ask that people plan ahead and expect delays.
Please be patient and treat our crews with kindness and respect. Reduce your speed, adhere to the temporary speed limits and follow the traffic management directions at our work sites.
Work is weather dependent and there may be changes to the planned works in the case of unsuitable weather. Please visit the NZTA Journey Planner website (journeys.nzta.govt.nz) for up-to-date information on these works, including any changes due to weather.
This work is part of Northland’s significant summer maintenance programme, which will see approximately 203 lane kilometres of state highway renewed across the region by the end of May.
Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia
Senator Reverend Warnock to Vote Against Kennedy Leading America’s Health Care System Following Concerning Nomination Hearing
During a Wednesday Senate Finance committee hearing, Senator Reverend Warnock questioned Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Trump’s nominee to run the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
Senator Reverend Warnock’s questioning defended the importance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which employs over 10,000 hardworking Georgians
Senator Reverend Warnock expressed concerns over disturbing comments and long-held beliefs of Kennedy that would threaten health care costs, quality, and access for millions of Georgians and Americans
Senator Reverend Warnock: “The CDC is an agency filled with hard-working, dedicated public health servants. They wake up every single day working to keep us safe. We don’t think often enough about their work because it’s easy not to celebrate folks who are protecting you from that which doesn’t appear because of the work that they’re doing”
Watch Senator Warnock at Wednesday’s Senate Finance committee hearing HERE
Washington, D.C. – Today, during a Senate Finance committee hearing on the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), U.S. Senator Reverend Warnock (D-GA) pressed Kennedy on disturbing comments and long-held beliefs of Kennedy that would threaten health care costs and thousands of Georgia health care jobs.
“Mr. Kennedy, you have compared the CDC’s work to Nazi death camps. You’ve compared it to sexual abusers in the Catholic Church. You’ve also said that many of them belong in jail,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “For me, those are disturbing characterizations of the CDC workers that I know, who are trying to keep the American public safe every single day.”
During the line of questioning, Senator Warnock also asked the nominee about the bureaucratic hoops many people in Georgia have to jump through in order to access health care. This line of questioning led to Kennedy admitting that people in these situations need health care as opposed to programs, like work requirements in Georgia, one of the many barriers to entry for Medicaid in the state.
“A woman I think of all the time, her name is Heather. She’s a traveling nurse from Dalton, Georgia who falls into the Medicaid coverage gap. Heather experienced a series of small strokes leaving her unable to work full time. She’s dedicated her life to caring for patients, but now she can’t afford her own medical care out-of-pocket costs because she doesn’t make enough to qualify for tax credits to buy private insurance. What does Heather need? Does she need work requirements, or does she need access to health care so she can finally get healthy and get back to work?” Senator Warnock asked Kennedy.
“The individual that you described would need healthcare and not a work requirement,” said Kennedy.
Senator Warnock has long championed efforts to expand affordable health care access, starting with his advocacy to close the health care coverage gap in Georgia. Last year, the Senator visited the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia for the first time as Senator to learn about the agency’s efforts to protect public health, including work to combat the maternal mortality crisis and how federal funding plays a role in keeping Georgia and the country safe from infectious diseases. In addition to pushing for solutions to close the coverage gap, Senator Warnock led a delegation of Georgia lawmakers in urging the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to provide tools to Medicaid non-expansion states like Georgia to help them protect health care access for Medicaid enrollees who lose eligibility after the end of the public health emergency declaration. Senator Warnock made his first visit to Georgia’s legislative session as a U.S. Senator last year, highlighting the need to expand Medicaid for more than 640,000 Georgians.
Watch the Senator’s full remarks and line of questioning HERE.
See below a full transcript of the exchanges between Senator Warnock and Secretary of Health and Human Services nominee Robert F. Kennedy Jr.:
Senator Reverend Warnock (SRW): “I want to talk to you first about the CDC, or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. I’m proud of the work that the CDC does, proud that it’s located in Georgia, with more than 10,000 employees in my state. If confirmed, you would be the cabinet secretary over the CDC. Representing HHS is about 29% of the federal budget, CDC is a part of that.
“Do you agree that the CDC’s work is critical to Georgia, critical for our country, and the health of the entire world?”
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (RFK): Yes, Senator.
SRW: Senator Isakson, my Republican predecessor would have agreed with that, bless his memory, he was a fierce advocate for the CDC, as am I. The CDC is an agency filled with hard-working, dedicated public health servants.
“They wake up every single day working to keep us safe. We don’t think often enough about their work because it’s easy not to celebrate folks who are protecting you from that which doesn’t appear because of the work that they’re doing. So grateful for the work that the CDC employees do, some of them are members of my church. I saw that deep commitment firsthand when I visited the CDC just last summer.
“Mr. Kennedy, you have compared the CDC’s work to Nazi death camps. You’ve compared it to sexual abusers in the Catholic Church. You’ve also said that many of them belong, this is a direct quote, many of them belong in jail. For me those are disturbing characterizations of the CDC workers that I know who are trying to keep the American public safe every single day and as you are presented as the nominee for this position, I need to know, do you stand by those statements that you, you made in the past or do you retract those previous statements?”
RFK: “Senator, I don’t believe that I ever compared the CDC to Nazi death camps. I support the CDC, my job is not to dismantle or harm the CDC, my job is to empower the scientists if I’m privileged to be confirmed.”
SRW: “So, you retract those statements?”
RFK: “I’m not retracting it. I never said it.”
SRW: “Well, actually I have a transcript. Let me read your words, you said ‘That the institution CDC and the vaccine program is more important than the children that is supposed to protect and you know it’s the same reason we had a pedophile scandal in the Catholic Church it’s because people were able to convince themselves that the institution of the church was more important than those little boys and girls who were being raped’
“That’s pretty provocative language you said in another statement to me ‘This is like Nazi death camp. […] What happened to these kids? 1 in 31 boys in this country, their minds are being robbed from them.”
RFK: “I was not comparing the CDC to Nazi death camps, I was comparing the injury rate to our children to other atrocities and I wouldn’t compare the, of course, the CDC to Nazi death camps to any extent.
“And any statement that I made has been interpreted that way, I don’t agree with that.”
[…]
SRW: “It sounds like you stand by those statements?”
RFK: “My objective is to support the CDC. There’s nothing I’m going to do that is going to harm CDC. I want to make sure that our science is gold standard science, that it’s free from that same government oversight investigation committee, and that the panels [… ] within CDC. I think 97% of the people on it had conflicts. I don’t believe that that’s right. I think we need to end those conflicts and make sure that scientists are doing unobstructed science.”
SRW: “Last week the White House gagged HHS and the CDC, preventing them from communicating all important public health information to anyone. Including our allies in the United States and global disease prevention. Do you agree with that action?”
RFK: “I was not consulted on it, but that’s pretty much standard operating procedure for the incoming administration.”
SRW: “So you agree with the action that gagged HHS and CDC from communicating important public health information?”
RFK: “That directive made sure that no use public health and only non-essential travel and mass communications were temporarily suspended, pending the confirmation of a new HHS secretary, this is standard operating procedure for administration.”
SRW: “I don’t think what we’ve seen over the last several days is standard operation for a new administration. I think we’re seeing some unprecedented actions, but you agree with it.
“Last night mem members of the CDC, along with other federal employees were actually invited to resign, these buyouts. I actually got text messages from folks I know from the CDC (who work) for the CDC that do this important work who got that note. It’s really important because my experience is that when you send out that kind of note, the folks who resign are the folks who you least likely want to see resign.
“They got other options, they’re gifted folks, they’ve got a lot of expertise. A lot of them are doing this work because of their patriotism, because of their commitment. Do you agree with the buyouts that were presented to CDC employees just last night?”
RFK: “I agree the vast majority of the scientists and experts at CDC are patriots and government servants.
SRW: “Can you tell me yes or no? […] Ok, you agree with the buyouts.”
“In our meeting, I asked you to confirm your support for the Affordable Care Act. You also mentioned that you and President Trump want to fix the ACA by making premiums more affordable.
“Did you know that tax credits that help families afford health insurance and save George’s an average of $531 per month per person are set to expire at the end of the year? Did you know that?”
RFK: “I do.”
SRW: “Do you support Congress extending these tax credits so that Americans can continue to afford health care?
*RFK gives non “Yes” or “No” response
SRW: “I think that the fact that you find it difficult to answer basic questions is deeply troubling for me as you present yourself as a nominee to run HHS.
SRW: “Based on our conversations, it’s my understanding that you support work requirements and Medicaid. In 2020, President Trump approved a proposal from Georgia state leaders requiring Georgians to jump through a number of onerous bureaucratic hoops and fill out even more paperwork, to verify work and get access to health care.
“I asked this as someone who represents a state that has not expanded Medicaid, the federal government, because of this waiver, spent $70 million on Georgia’s Medicaid waiver. 82% of that went to administrative costs.
“The point that I’m making is that the folks that they’re insisting need to work, 90% of those folks are working. They are caregivers or they have a disability.
“Let me give you one example. A woman I think of all the time, her name is Heather. She’s a traveling nurse from Dalton, Georgia who falls into the Medicaid coverage gap. Heather experienced a series of small strokes leaving her unable to work full time. She’s dedicated her life to caring for patients, but now she can’t afford her own medical care out-of-pocket costs because she doesn’t make enough to qualify for tax credits to buy private insurance.
“What does Heather need? Does she need work requirements, or does she need access to health care so she can finally get healthy and get back to work?
RFK: “The individual that you described would need healthcare and not a work requirement.
Attribute to Acting Detective Sergeant Steve Leonard
Police have arrested one person and seized firearms, drugs and cash from the central Hawke’s Bay property of an Outlaws gang member.
Three firearms, methamphetamine and cash were seized after Police executed a warrant at the address, this included a fully loaded Beretta pistol that was found in a bag alongside a quantity of methamphetamine.
A 46-year-old man appeared in the Hastings District Court today and has been remanded in custody until his next appearance.
Police will continue to work to disrupt organised crime and ensure the profits of such activity does not land in the hands of those at the forefront of the offending.
South Australia Police have arrested six people for attempt murder in relation to an incident at Andrews Farm on December 16, 2024.
The incident involved an 18 year old who was shot through a closed bedroom roller shutter window. The victim has made a full recovery.
Acting Assistant Commissioner John DeCandia said investigations found the address was mistaken the victim was not the intended target.
“Operation Meld investigators believe the attack was extensively planned and today searched seven addresses to gather further evidence,” Acting Assistant Commissioner DeCandia said.
“As a result of the searches several mobile phones have been seized and police located a firearm which is suspected to have been used in previous shootings. A large quantity of tablets suspected of containing MDMA were also located.”
This morning police charged three 17 year olds, two 19 year olds and a 21 year old for the incident, all have been refused bail and will appear in court this afternoon.
One 17 year old from Munno Para was further charged with possession of the prescribed firearm and related ammunition offences. While a 21 year old from Munno Para West was further charged with traffic a commercial quantity of a controlled drug.
Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy
January 29, 2025
WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Wednesday announced his Committee assignments for the 119th Congress. In addition to maintaining his positions on the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Murphy will serve as the Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security and the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Europe and Regional Security Cooperation.
Murphy is the first U.S. Senator from Connecticut to serve on the Appropriations Committee since 1987. As a member of the Appropriations Committee and Ranking Member of the Homeland Security Subcommittee, Murphy will continue working to secure funding to create good-paying jobs, combat the fentanyl crisis, and support communities in Connecticut.
As a member of the HELP and Foreign Relations Committees, Murphy will also continue advocating to invest in mental health care, stand up for workers, improve school safety, advocate for anti-gun violence programs, and support U.S. diplomatic efforts abroad.
Labour is relieved to see Children’s Minister Karen Chhour has woken up to reality and reversed her government’s terrible decisions to cut funding from frontline service providers – temporarily.
“In August last year, Karen Chhour was calling frontline service providers “disgruntled” and accusing them of using Oranga Tamariki as a “cash cow,” Labour children’s spokesperson Willow-Jean Prime said.
“I hope that she has taken the summer break to reflect on those comments. Frontline service providers have some of the hardest jobs, and they deserve certainty, not name-calling.
“Many vulnerable children and whānau have relationships with these providers and they do the kind of work that can be incredibly difficult, but can change lives.
“It is a relief to see some contracts have been extended out to the end of the year. While this provides immediate relief, it does not fix the uncertainty that many children and whānau face if providers’ funding is not continued.
“It appears Karen Chhour has woken up to the absolutely vital services that are provided on the frontline. Now she must ensure that support continues beyond the end of the year,” Willow-Jean Prime said.
ACT Leader David Seymour is welcoming a new Horizon Research poll showing strong support for a four-year Parliamentary term. ACT’s coalition commitment includes introducing Seymour’s four-year term Bill in the first half of this term.
“Better law making is the number one thing that New Zealand can change about itself to get more economic growth, better social services, better regulation, and ultimately give the next generation more reason to stay here,” says Seymour.
“The poll shows more Kiwis support the four-year term than oppose it, by 40-30 per cent. Another 30 per cent remain unsure, and the debate has not been opened yet.
“A four-year term gives Kiwis more time to see whether political promises translate into results, so they can vote accordingly. This will lead to more accountability and better law making.
“Crucially, ACT’s proposal to extend the term comes with a balancing step to turn control of Select Committees over to the Opposition. This gives the Opposition more power to scrutinise legislation and grill Ministers and officials.
“ACT’s proposal is a constitutional change, so we won’t do it without the consent of the voters. The legislation we’ve proposed culminates in a public referendum at the end of a full Parliamentary process.
“ACT will continue to make the case for a four-year term. If New Zealanders agree at a referendum, it will vindicate the risk we took in starting a tough conversation. More importantly, we’ll have better laws and a more mature democracy.”
“So far, the inquiry into rural banking has not changed my suspicion that a cabal of woke banks is neglecting rural communities in the name of climate action,” says ACT Rural Communities spokesman Mark Cameron.
“Banks are starving rural New Zealand of capital. Farmers have long complained they’re getting a raw deal on loans compared to their urban cousins. BNZ won’t even lend for people to set up or expand rural petrol stations.
“Banks should be supporting Kiwi farmers. If they are concerned about emissions globally, they should be falling over themselves to lend to the most efficient dairy producers in the world, lest production shift offshore where farming activity creates more emissions.
“The problem is that here we have banks acting in concert to virtue signal with anti-rural lending practices. This is in part thanks to their association with overseas umbrella organisations and the way banks are regulated.
“Through the banks’ parent companies they are part of the UN’s Net Zero Banking Alliance, which was set up to change lending practices for the sake of climate goals. The six largest banks in the United States have all left the Net Zero alliance in the last few months. It’s time for banks in New Zealand to do the same. There’s been a political sea-change and there’s no longer an appetite for corporate virtue-signalling.
“Meanwhile, the Financial Markets Authority imposes emissions reduction reporting on banks. In 2021, ACT was the only party to vote against the legislation that introduced these reporting requirements, warning that they could affect loans to farmers. We continue to support the repeal of these requirements.”
Fire and Emergency New Zealand crews have been working hard to contain a large vegetation fire in mixed scrub and wetland on Tiwai Peninsula in Invercargill today.
The fire has grown to 1,200 hectares across the centre of the peninsula, with an 18 kilometre perimeter, due to higher temperatures and wind speed this afternoon.
There are currently eight trucks in attendance, with ten helicopters in support.
Firefighters will work until 6pm tonight, then two crews will monitor the fire overnight. All crews will return at 7am tomorrow to continue battling the fire.
Incident Controller Hamish Angus says the fire is not an immediate threat to people, homes, the smelter, or the Tiwai Bridge.
“The Tiwai Bridge is closed to all traffic except our crews and the smelter staff, and we’re asking people to keep away from Tiwai Road so we can continue to work safely,” he says.
“We are working closely with mana whenua and the Department of Conservation, to ensure culturally and ecologically sensitive areas still threatened by the fire are prioritised for protection.”
Awarua Rūnaka Manager Gail Thompson says she is deeply saddened at the damage caused in such a short time.
“This peninsula is a precious taonga, with a history going back a long way, which is important to Ngai Tahu,” she says.
She’s happy to see the newly-established Mana Whenua Emergency Facilitator for Murihiku, Angie Hopkinson, at the site to support Fire and Emergency and the Department of Conservation with the response.
Department of Conservation’s Operation Manager for Murihiku, John McCarroll, says Awarua Peninsula has considerable environmental value, and today’s fire is a huge blow.
“Awarua has a significant number of biodiversity values and is used by a lot of wading birds for flocking and feeding, including the endangered Southern New Zealand Dotterel/Pukunui,” he says.
“As well as the loss of wildlife, we’ve also lost assets such as predator-trapping infrastructure.
“We will assess the losses once the fire is under control and we can return there safely. We may never know the full impact on biodiversity, but it is likely significant.”
The nearby Awarua wetland is also a Department of Conservation area of environmental significance, which was devastated in April 2022 when wildfire burnt through 1,330 hectares.
NEW ORLEANS, Jan. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until March 24, 2025 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Crocs, Inc. (NasdaqGS: CROX), if they purchased the Company’s shares between November 3, 2022, and October 28 2024, inclusive (the “Class Period”). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware.
Get Help
Crocs investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nasdaq-crox-1/ or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options.
About the Lawsuit
Crocs and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.
In February 2022, the Company completed its acquisition of HEYDUDE, a footwear brand focusing on casual, comfortable, and lightweight footwear. On October 29, 2024, the Company reported its financial results for 3Q 2024, disclosing that HEYDUDE revenues fell below the Company’s expectations and that “HEYDUDE’s recent performance and the current operating environment are signaling it will take longer than we had initially planned for the business to turn the corner” due to “excess inventories in the market,” among other things.
On this news, the price of Crocs common stock declined $26.47 per share, or approximately 19.2%, from a close of $138.05 per share on October 28, 2024, to close at $111.58 per share on October 29, 2024.
The case is Carretta v. Crocs, Inc., et al., No. 25-cv-00096.
About ClaimsFiler
ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations.
Dotted across northern Australia are 21 saltwater crocodile farms, home to around 130,000 crocodiles. Their skins are turned into crocodile leather, long sought for use in luxury handbags, belts and other items.
While fur lost favour due to welfare concerns about animals such as mink, chinchillas and arctic foxes raised for their skins, crocodile leather has kept selling. Australia dominates the global market of saltwater crocodile skins, producing almost 60% of all such skins traded internationally.
But the industry now faces real headwinds. Major retailers and fashion events in Australia and internationally are phasing out or banning crocodile and other exotic skins due to growing concerns over animal welfare.
The Northern Territory government’s crocodile farming plan acknowledges shifting consumer demand and increasing scrutiny as the industry’s largest threat.
Early animal rights activists in the 19th century focused on feathers due to concern about the enormous environmental damage done by plume hunters killing ostriches and egrets. Only later did activists turn their focus to fur.
In the early 20th century, countries such as the United States and Britain enacted bans or restrictions on feathers. In this century, sentiment has largely turned against wearing real fur, though faux fur and vintage fur are still popular.
But even as feathers went out of fashion, new animal products were arriving. By 1928, exotic skins such as crocodile, alligator and snake began commercialisation in Europe and the US. By the 1970s, they were widely used in fashion.
That looks to be changing.
By 2026, department store David Jones will phase out all exotic skins, including ostrich, crocodile, alligator, lizard and snake. The move builds on the company’s existing animal welfare policies, which already prohibit the sale of fur, angora rabbit wool and foie gras (duck or goose liver).
The 2025 Melbourne Fashion Festival will also ban exotic leathers, while London Fashion Week will be the first of the “Big Four” fashion weeks to follow suit.
In recent years, the kangaroo leather industry has also come under pressure due to concerns over animal welfare. California banned it altogether, and a full US ban is under consideration.
Feathers are also under increasing scrutiny, with fashion weeks in Copenhagen, Helsinki and Melbourne announcing feather bans starting this year.
These decisions reflect a growing shift toward ethical fashion, driven by consumer demand and rising awareness of animal welfare.
Crocodile leather is described as an “exotic” skin, even though saltwater crocodiles are native to Australia.
Two-thirds of Australia’s skins come from the Northern Territory, while Queensland and Western Australia have smaller industries.
Crocodile farms operate by harvesting eggs from the wild and raising the animals in captivity. In the wild, they are protected from hunting. But in farms, they are legally considered stock or production animals, which means they lose these protections.
When we farm animals, it’s common to think of them as resources waiting to be used for our purposes.
But the fashion backlash suggests another way of thinking is emerging. My research points to a more animal-centric perspective on how animal-derived materials are produced for fashion.
Crocodile farms emerged as a way to protect these reptiles from being hunted to extinction. But the industry is now under increasing scrutiny. RWK007/Shutterstock
From unregulated hunting to farmed crocodiles
Skin hunters nearly drove the saltwater crocodile to extinction in Australia. An estimated 300,000 animals were killed for their skins between 1945 and 1970. Saltie populations fell as low as 3,000 animals before authorities acted.
Freshwater crocodiles, too, were hunted for their skins from 1959. After both species were protected in the 1970s, their populations rebounded.
But this agreement doesn’t rule out uses for fashion. As crocodile experts at the International Union for Conservation of Nature write:
[…] crocodile farming was seen not only as a way to reduce pressure on the wild populations, but also as a means through which commercial incentives for the conservation of crocodilians could be generated.
As the website of one Australian crocodile farm states, crocodiles are a “natural renewable resource with considerable potential for sustainable commercial use”.
By 2018, the crocodile farming industry was worth A$26.7 million to the Northern Territory’s economy. Around 100,000 juvenile crocodiles are raised annually on farms. The NT industry plans to expand in coming years, with a target of 50,000 skins annually.
Trends in fashion heavily influence how crocodiles are farmed. While saltwater crocodiles can live up to 70 years in the wild, it takes three to four years for a crocodile to reach 1.5 metres, at which point their skins can make larger fashion items.
But in recent years, crocodiles have been slaughtered at around two years. Their smaller skins are used for smaller accessories.
Welfare concerns
The crocodile farming industry promotes its sustainability and positive economic impacts on First Nations communities. But this has come under question in recent years, with the release of documentaries featuring ex-crocodile farm workers, while activists from the Farm Transparency Project flew drones over crocodile farms and released footage of slaughtering practices in an effort to increase scrutiny and draw media coverage.
This image of a crocodile in a Northern Territory farm was taken by activists using a drone. Farm Transparency Project, CC BY
Animal welfare organisations such as the RSPCA have long opposed the practice.
In 2023, the federal government announced an update of the code of humane treatment of wild and farmed crocodiles to incorporate new science and techniques, according to Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek. The updated code was expected late last year but has not been released.
In response, NT Crocodile Farmers Association chief Jodi Truman said the industry “supports independent audits to ensure humane treatment”. She added:
[…] animal rights activists have made clear that they are against all farms and the farming of all animals.
This drone image taken by animal activists shows the slaughter of crocodiles at a NT farm. Farm Transparency Project, CC BY
What’s likely to happen?
While commercial operators and governments plan to expand, there are now real barriers to the industry’s growth.
For decades, animal derived products such as fur, feathers and leather have been prized in fashion. But consumers are increasingly less comfortable with how these products are made. That’s the thing about fashion – it changes.
The author has previously been a member and lower-house candidate for the Animal Justice Party in Victoria.
Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. voted in support of President Trump’s Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) nominee, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. in his Senate Finance Committee confirmation hearing today.
Senator Marshall highlighted America’s chronic disease epidemic and the impact ultra-processed foods have had on our national health. Additionally, Senator Marshall questioned RFK Jr. about the impact of his proposed initiatives on American agriculture.
As the founder of the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Caucus, Senator Marshall has been vocal in his support of RFK Jr. and the MAHA movement. In his hearing, RFK Jr. emphasized his holistic approach to leading HHS and what making America healthy again means: increasing access to fresh foods, ensuring medical transparency, and supporting America’s farmers and ranchers by working with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) every step of the way.
You may click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full remarks.
Highlights from Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Responses to Senator Marshall Include:
On RFK Jr.’s Vision to Make America Healthy Again:
“We’re having epidemics of all these chronic illnesses, autoimmune diseases, neurological diseases, allergic diseases, obesity. When my uncle was president, 3% of Americans were obese. Today, 74% of Americans are obese or overweight. No other country has anything like this. In Japan, the obesity rate is still 3%.”
“Epidemics are not caused by genes. Genes may provide the vulnerability, but you need an environmental toxin. Something is poisoning the American people, and we know that the primary culprits are our changing food supply – the switch to highly chemical-intensive processed foods.”
“We don’t have good science on all these things, and that is deliberate. That’s a deliberate choice not to study the things that are truly making us sick, that are not only contributing to chronic disease, to mortalities, from infectious disease. We need to get a handle on this because if we don’t, it’s an existential threat.”
“Our country is not going to be destroyed because we get the marginal tax rate wrong, or because we get one of these culture war issues that we’ve been talking about today wrong, it’s going to be destroyed if we continue down this trajectory of chronic disease. We need to fix our food supply, and that’s the number one.”
On RFK Jr. supporting America’s farmers and ranchers:
“What we need to do is we need to support the farmers. We need the farmers as partners if we’re going to make the MAHA work – and I don’t want a single farmer to go out of business under our watch.”
Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott
WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), member of the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, introduced former Senator Kelly Loeffler (R-Ga.), President Trumps’ nominee to lead the U.S. Small Business Administration, at her confirmation hearing.
“As a small business owner for 15 years, I have great confidence in your ability to do the job. To my fellow members of this Committee, I hope that you’ll hear her out. But I’m also asking for you to vote for her, because it is time for us to right the ship to focus on the underserved communities around this country, and to make sure that every single zip code in this nation has strong, powerful small businesses,” said Senator Scott. “Because without small businesses, we will have high unemployment [and] low enthusiasm.”
Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti
37 seconds ago
Growing up on a Twyford orchard and living an outdoor life fostered a love for the environment which led Jordyn Campbell to study Environmental Management at EIT.
This has proved to be a good move with Jordyn, who finished the NZ Diploma in Environmental Management (Level 6) last year, currently doing conservation surveying and monitoring work. She is working for SPS Biota| Biosecurity & Environmental Services, collecting data about the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug and Spongy Moth – both serious pests and risks to NZ fruit and vegetable industries. This project started in October and runs until April 2025.
Jordyn, 20, attended Iona College in Havelock North and won a Year 13 scholarship in 2022 to study at EIT. A Year 13 Scholarship, which is offered annually by EIT, covers one year of tuition fees. The Scholarship supports school leavers across the Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti regions to study any one of EIT’s degrees or selected level 5 diploma programmes that lead into a degree by providing one year FREE study.
Jordyn Campbell completed the NZ Diploma in Environmental Management (Level 6) at EIT last year and is looking forward to completing her Bachelor of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management).
Jordyn entered the Environmental Management programme in 2023, completing her level 5 NZ Diploma in Environmental Management, and has loved every moment.
“I live on an orchard, too, so I decided to study more about the environment around me, because I’ve been growing up in a rural area.” She says choosing EIT to study at was an easy decision, especially when she won the Year 13 scholarship.
“It was close to home and easier to study there, especially since I liked the sound of the programme. The scholarship also helped me make the decision.”
Jordyn says that her new job is working on behalf of the Ministry for Primary Industries and involves searching for evasive species of Spongy Moths and Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs in Napier, Hastings and Havelock North.
“We have an app called Field Maps and it has all the locations on it, which are indicated by dots on the map. You complete forms depending on if you get a sample or you’re just doing a trap clearance, and then it will change the colour of the dots on the map. There are 63 traps for the Spongy Moth and six traps for the Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs across Hawke’s Bay.”
This year Jordyn will be completing her final year of study to achieve the Bachelor of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management). As for the future, Jordyn is leaning towards working in biosecurity, but she does not rule out studying further.
She says that wherever she winds up, she will not forget what she has learned from EIT. She has no hesitation in recommending the institute to others.
“I like EIT because you get to know everyone on a very personal level, including the lecturers. You are not just a number to them, you’re an actual person and you get one-on-one help from them.”
Environmental Management Lecturer Dr Glen Robertshaw says: “I think this is a fantastic opportunity for Jordyn, who I know really enjoyed our level 6 Biosecurity course”.
“It is also a real validation of the value of our programme and demonstrates that what we are teaching can lead to employment locally. It’s great to think that one of our students is helping to protect the local horticulture industry from invasive species that could potentially devastate it.”
Fire and Emergency New Zealand received multiple calls to a large vegetation fire burning along the railway line by Wainui South Road, Whakamarama in Western Bay of Plenty at 12.40 today.
Incident Commander Bill Pike says the fire is now contained and six fire trucks from Greerton, Omokoroa, KatiKati and Tauranga are dampening down hotspots. No evacuations were required.
“The fire is in bush and scrub and is approximately 700 metres on either side of the train track,” Bill Pike says.
“There are road closures in the immediate area, but State Highway 2 remains open.
“We ask people to stay away from the area so emergency services can carry out their job safely.”
Bill Pike says Fire and Emergency is working with Kiwirail to establish a cause for the fire.
The PSA urges Children’s Minister Karen Chhour to reverse all the damaging cuts to community service contracts, and to Oranga Tamariki, in the wake of her u-turn today on funding Barnardos.
The backflip follows revelations that Barnardos’ youth telehealth counselling service was at risk of closing in July along with other services supporting vulnerable families. This followed funding cuts by Oranga Tamariki under the Government’s austerity drive.
“This backflip shows how rushed and reckless her original decision was to order Oranga Tamariki to cut contracts for dozens of community service providers across Aotearoa,” said Duane Leo, National Secretary for the Public Service Association for Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
“The PSA calls on the Minister to urgently reverse all the cuts – reinstate the contracts that have been axed and restore the funding to existing contacts that were cut – before lasting damage is done to families.
“She must also reverse the cuts to Oranga Tamariki which has seen 419 jobs axed, nearly 10% of the workforce.
“Last year the Minister accused charities of abusing their contracts with Oranga Tamariki, claiming they had become ‘cash cows’ through the contracts – this was offensive, disrespecting the vital work they do.
“The Minister has tried to wash her hands of these cuts, calling them ‘operational matters’ for Oranga Tamariki, but now that the reality is hitting home, the Minister needs to do the right thing.
“She knows New Zealanders are increasingly alarmed by the cuts.
“The Government promised its cuts would not impact frontline services. The Minister’s u-turn over the Barnardos’ contract shows the Government slowly realising it can no longer get away with this spin.”
Federated Farmers is welcoming today’s decision by Kāinga Ora to give wool carpet providers the chance to tender for supply of carpet and underlay in its homes.
A previous request for proposals (RFP) confined bids to synthetic carpets, not even allowing wool to compete.
“This decision is cause for celebration for all strong-wool farmers,” Federated Farmers meat and wool chair Toby Williams says.
“The change of stance by Kāinga Ora has come about because of relentless pressure from the sheep and wool sector, with Federated Farmers and Campaign for Wool leading the charge.
“Kāinga Ora’s previous tender process pulled the rug out from under the nation’s farmers and didn’t even give the sector a chance to put its best foot forward.
“Now it’s up to wool carpet providers to make sure their proposals are competitive, and highlight all the factors that make the natural product superior to synthetics.”
Wool provides better insulation and warmth, it’s moisture wicking, and it’s a natural fire retardant, Williams says.
“It’s also hypoallergenic, and better for those with asthma.”
Kāinga Ora says the new RFP is for supplying floor coverings for 2,650 new homes and 3000 renovations between now and June 2026.
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Brian Gill, age 59, of Andes, New York, has been indicted for Social Security fraud. The charge relates to Gill’s concealment of work activity at a tree service company he owned and operated while he was obtaining disability benefits from the Social Security Administration.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Amy Connelly, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, New York Field Office.
The Social Security Fraud charge carries a maximum term of 5 years in federal prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to three years. Gill could also be ordered to pay restitution to the Social Security Administration for the funds fraudulently collected. 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.
The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. This case is being investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Paul Tuck.
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Kyle Biswell, age 39, of Prairie Grove, Arkansas, was sentenced today to 20 years in prison, to be followed by a life term of supervised release, after a federal judge determined that he is a repeat and dangerous sex offender against minors. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement.
In July 2024, Biswell pled guilty to interstate travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct and transportation of child pornography. After his plea, the United States Attorney’s Office, the U.S. Probation Office, and the FBI obtained evidence that Biswell had previously sexually abused an infant, which established that Biswell is a repeat and dangerous sex offender against minors – significantly enhancing his sentencing range under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. Faced with the evidence amassed by the government, Biswell informed the prosecution that he would waive an evidentiary hearing and his objection to being sentenced as a repeat and dangerous sex offender against minors in exchange for an agreed-upon sentence of 20 years’ incarceration and a life term of supervised release.
According to the plea agreement and documents submitted to the Court, Biswell admitted that between January and April 2023, he communicated with an individual he believed was the mother of an 11-year-old girl through an internet-based social networking application and using his cellular phone. Over the course of those communications, Biswell expressed his interest in engaging in sexual contact and impregnating the 11-year-old and ultimately purchased airfare to travel from his home in Arkansas to Albany, with the intent to engage in illicit sexual contact with the child on April 8, 2023. Upon his arrival in the Capital Region on April 8, 2023, Biswell was arrested by FBI agents and admitted that he had traveled from Arkansas to Albany for the purpose of engaging in sexual acts with a child he believed to be 11 years old. Biswell further admitted that he brought child pornography with him on his cell phone. The cell phone was subsequently searched by the FBI and found to contain numerous videos and images depicting child pornography, including several videos depicting the sexual abuse and rape of children under the age of 5.
In sentencing Biswell today, United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci found that he had previously engaged in oral-to-genital contact with an infant, making him a repeat and dangerous sex offender against minors. In addition to a 20-year term of incarceration and a lifetime of supervised release, Judge Nardacci imposed restitution in the amount of $9,000 and a special assessment of $200. When Biswell is released from prison, he will be required to register as a sex offender.
The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin S. Clark prosecuted the case as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s 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.
