Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
State Highway 2 south of Dannevirke is blocked due to a two-vehicle collision.
It happened at around 7:10pm at the intersection of Wi Duncan Road.
One person is seriously injured and three others have moderate injuries.
Motorists are asked to take alternate routes.
ENDS
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Tokanui Gorge Road Highway near Fortrose is blocked currently due to a crash where a truck has rolled.
Emergency services were called to the single-vehicle crash about 7.45am.
Fortunately the driver was not seriously injured, however the road is completely blocked.
It is expected to be closed for some time while the scene is cleared.
Motorists should avoid the area, or expect delays.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Police and emergency services are attending a crash involving at least four vehicles on Bluff Highway between Awarua Siding Road and Stanley Township Road.
The crash occurred at approximately 8.10am today.
One vehicle is currently blocking both lanes, so motorists are asked to avoid the area.
Towing vehicles have been called, but will take time to get to the scene.
We have no reports of injury currently.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Team
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Police are currently assisting with road closures at a building fire on Pakowhai Road, Frimley, Hastings which was reported about 9.30 this morning.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand are at the scene and the road is closed between Duke Street and Frederick Street.
Motorists and pedestrians are advised to avoid the area if possible.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre.
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Attributable to Detective Sergeant Joe Sailsbury:
Two youths have been arrested in relation to a liquor store robbery in Levin today.
At 11:30am Police received reports of an aggravated robbery at a liquor store on Mako Mako Road.
Two youths had entered the store with a weapon and stole alcohol before fleeing the area in a stolen vehicle.
A quick response by Police led to officers recovering the stolen vehicle, and around 90 minutes later two youths were arrested.
Both will appear in Levin Youth Court on charges of aggravated robbery and unlawfully getting into a motor vehicle.
Police would like to thank members of the community who contacted Police with information that lead to the arrests.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Team.
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
To be attributed to Inspector Danny Kirk, Tairāwhiti Area Commander:
Tairāwhiti Police have arrested and charged four people following two firearms-related incidents overnight.
At around 11.45pm yesterday, Police were called to Taruheru Crescent in Mangapapa, following a report of several shots being fired towards a house from a car.
The occupants of the same car then fired one or two shots at an occupied vehicle in Valley Road, Mangapapa.
Police located the car in Lytton Road and signalled the driver to stop, however he failed to do so.
Police pursued the car through the Elgin area, before stopping it near the intersection of Awapuni Road and Lytton Road.
The four occupants of the car – males aged 15, 16, 28 and 36 – have been charged with discharging a firearm with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. Further charges are likely as our investigation into these incidents continue.
Police have also seized a firearm and other items which the car’s occupants threw from the car as they were being pursued by Police.
My message to all involved in this kind of offending is that this has to stop. Two people were injured as a result of the shots fired at the occupied vehicle in Valley Road – one seriously – and we could very easily have been dealing with one or more fatalities.
I want to acknowledge my frontline officers, who made a conscious decision to put themselves in harm’s way to apprehend those involved in this senseless violence. And I also want to acknowledge our investigators who work tirelessly to ensure that Police can put these people before the Court and hold them accountable for their actions.
The four males arrested will be appearing in Gisborne District Court tomorrow.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre.
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
An earlier media release regarding two firearms-related incidents in Gisborne overnight stated that two people were injured as a result of shots fired at a house on Taruheru Crescent.
This was incorrect – the two people injured were in the vehicle in Valley Road that was also shot at.
We apologise for the error.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre.
Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development
Furniture suppliers are now required to provide safety warnings to consumers about the dangers of toppling furniture after the mandatory information standard for toppling furniture came into effect on 4 May 2025.
Since the year 2000 at least 28 people, including 17 children under five, have died in Australia from toppling furniture and televisions.
Each year more than 900 Australians suffer injuries requiring medical assistance from toppling furniture. Children aged up to four years are most at risk, with older Australians also vulnerable.
“A mandatory information standard is a critical step towards reducing the injuries and deaths involving toppling furniture,” ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe said.
“The impact of furniture tip-over can be tragic, with young children and the elderly most at risk. The information standard raises awareness about the risk of furniture tip-over and empowers consumers with the knowledge they need to safeguard their homes.”
The new information standard applies to chests of drawers, wardrobes, bookcases, hall tables, display cabinets, buffets and sideboards with a height of 686mm or more, and entertainment units of any height.
If not properly secured, tall or unstable furniture can topple over when young children attempt to climb on them or pull themselves up. Elderly people with reduced strength or mobility are also at greater risk because they are more likely to rely on furniture for support and are more likely to suffer severe injury if furniture tips over.
The information standard requires suppliers to:
“Suppliers must meet these requirements, and the ACCC will be working with state-based consumer agencies to monitor compliance and take enforcement action if appropriate,” Ms Lowe said.
“Suppliers face serious penalties for non-compliance, with penalties up to $50 million for businesses and $2.5 million for individuals.”
Following a recommendation by the ACCC, the toppling furniture information standard was made by the Assistant Treasurer on 13 April 2024 and registered on 3 May 2024. Suppliers have had a 12-month transition period to implement the new information and labelling requirements.
When you’re out shopping, use these tips to help you pick safer furniture:
The best way to prevent furniture from tipping over is to secure it to the wall or floor with an anchoring device.
What you’ll need depends on what your wall or floor is made of, and what kind of furniture you’re working with. There are different kinds of wall and floor anchors available.
If your furniture doesn’t come with anchoring hardware, you can ask about anchors and buy what you need from a furniture retailer, hardware store or a specialty retailer selling baby and toddler products.
As well as securing your furniture and TVs, here are some things you can do to use furniture safely:
From 4 May 2025, furniture suppliers must comply with the requirements of the mandatory information standard. The ACCC published supplier guidance to assist suppliers in complying with the mandatory standard.
Supplying a product that fails to comply with the information standard is a contravention of the Australian Consumer Law and may expose a business or individual to potential enforcement action by the ACCC.
The maximum financial penalties for businesses are the greatest of:
Source: Government of India
Today India is making efforts to bring Olympics in our country in the year 2036: PM
The government is focusing on modernizing the sports infrastructure in the country: PM
The sports budget has been increased more than three times in the last decade, this year the sports budget is about Rs 4,000 crores: PM
We have made sports a part of mainstream education in the new National Education Policy with the aim of producing good sportspersons as well as excellent sports professionals in the country: PM
Posted On: 04 MAY 2025 8:02PM by PIB Delhi
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the inaugural ceremony of 7th Khelo India Youth Games via videoconferencing today. Addressing the athletes, coaches, and staff members present at the event, he remarked that players from across the country had gathered, showcasing exceptional talent and determination. He highlighted their dedication and hard work, acknowledging their contribution to the sporting spirit of the nation. Emphasizing the remarkable skills and commitment of the athletes, the Prime Minister affirmed that their passion for sports and continuous pursuit of excellence bring pride to the nation. He extended his best wishes to them for their future endeavors.
Highlighting the extensive competitions to be held across multiple cities in Bihar during the Khelo India Youth Games, including Patna, Rajgir, Gaya, Bhagalpur, and Begusarai, Shri Modi noted that in the coming days, over six thousand young athletes would participate, carrying their dreams and aspirations with them. He extended his best wishes to all the players, emphasizing that sports in India is now evolving into a distinct cultural identity. “As India’s sporting culture grows, so will the country’s soft power on the global stage”, said Shri Modi, underscoring the significance of the Khelo India Youth Games in providing a major platform for the nation’s youth.
Underscoring the importance of continuous improvement for athletes, emphasizing the necessity of playing more matches and participating in more competitions to refine their skills, the Prime Minister reiterated that their government has always given top priority to this aspect in its policies. He highlighted that various sporting events under Khelo India—University Games, Youth Games, Winter Games, and Para Games—are held throughout the year at multiple levels nationwide. These consistent competitions, he remarked, boost athletes’ confidence and bring their talent to the forefront. Citing an example from cricket, the Prime Minister lauded Bihar’s own Vaibhav Suryavanshi for his outstanding performance in the IPL at such a young age. He emphasized that while Vaibhav’s hard work was crucial, the exposure to multiple competitions also played a key role in shaping his talent. The Prime Minister asserted that the more an athlete plays, the more they thrive. He remarked that the Khelo India Youth Games provide young athletes with an opportunity to understand the nuances of national-level sports and gain valuable experience.
Stressing that hosting the Olympics in India has been a long-cherished dream of every citizen, Shri Modi underlined India’s efforts to bring the Olympics to the country in 2036, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to strengthening its presence in international sports. He underscored the government’s focus on identifying sporting talent at the school level and providing them with structured training. He remarked that initiatives like Khelo India and the Target Olympic Podium (TOP) scheme have contributed to building a robust sports ecosystem, benefiting thousands of athletes across Bihar and the rest of the country. He stressed the importance of giving athletes opportunities to explore diverse sports. He noted that Khelo India Youth Games has incorporated traditional and indigenous games like Gatka, Kalaripayattu, Kho-Kho, Mallakhamb, and even Yogasana to promote India’s rich sporting heritage. Shri Modi also acknowledged the growing presence of Indian athletes in new and emerging sports. He highlighted recent commendable performances in disciplines such as Wushu, Sepak Takraw, Pencak Silat, Lawn Bowls, and Roller Skating. He recalled the historic moment when India’s women’s team secured a medal in Lawn Bowls at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, bringing global recognition to the sport in India.
The Prime Minister highlighted the government’s focus on modernizing India’s sports infrastructure, noting that in the past decade, the sports budget has increased more than threefold, reaching approximately ₹4,000 crore this year, with a significant portion allocated to infrastructure development. He remarked that over 1,000 Khelo India Centers are operational across the country, including more than three dozen in Bihar. He emphasized that Bihar is benefiting from the Union and State governments, with the state government expanding several initiatives at its level. The Prime Minister acknowledged the establishment of the Khelo India State Centre of Excellence in Rajgir and institutions like Bihar Sports University and the State Sports Academy. He highlighted the ongoing construction of a Sports City along the Patna-Gaya Highway and the development of sports facilities in Bihar’s villages. He affirmed that the Khelo India Youth Games will further strengthen Bihar’s presence on the national sports map.
“The world of sports and its associated economy extend far beyond the playing field, sports are creating new avenues for employment and entrepreneurship for young individuals”, said Shri Modi. He noted various emerging fields such as physiotherapy, data analytics, sports technology, broadcasting, e-sports, and management, which offer diverse career opportunities. He remarked that young professionals could explore roles as coaches, fitness trainers, recruitment agents, event managers, sports lawyers, and media experts. “Today, a stadium is no longer just a venue for matches but has become a source of thousands of jobs”, stated Shri Modi, underlining the growing possibilities in sports entrepreneurship, with initiatives like the establishment of National Sports Universities and the integration of sports into mainstream education through the new National Education Policy. Shri Modi stressed the importance of sportsmanship in every aspect of life, highlighting how sports instill teamwork, collaboration, and perseverance. Encouraging the athletes, he urged them to perform at their best and represent the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ as brand ambassadors. He expressed confidence that the athletes would carry fond memories from Bihar. He also encouraged those visiting from outside the state to savor the taste of Litti Chokha and Bihar’s famous Makhana.
Expressing hope that the Khelo India Youth Games would elevate both the spirit of sportsmanship and patriotism among the participants, the Prime Minister officially announced the commencement of the seventh edition of the Khelo India Youth Games.
The Chief Minister of Bihar, Shri Nitish Kumar, Union Ministers Shri Mansukh Mandaviya, Smt Raksha Khadse, Shri Ram Nath Thakur were present among other dignitaries at the event.
Best wishes to the athletes participating in the Khelo India Youth Games being held in Bihar. May this platform bring out your best and promote true sporting excellence. @kheloindia https://t.co/jlOrc6qO1U
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 4, 2025
***
MJPS/SR
(Release ID: 2126850) Visitor Counter : 27
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Police today (May 4) appealed to the public for information on a woman who went missing in Western District.
Li Tsoi-kam, aged 74, went missing after she left her residence on Ko Shing Street yesterday (May 3) afternoon. Her family made a report to Police on the same day.
She is about 1.65 metres tall, 60 kilograms in weight and of medium build. She has a round face with yellow complexion and short black hair. She was last seen wearing a jacket with floral pattern, black pants, black shoes and carrying a recycle bag in red colour.
Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing woman or may have seen her is urged to contact the Regional Missing Persons Unit of Hong Kong Island on 2860 1040 or 9886 0034 or email to rmpu-hki@police.gov.hk, or contact any police station.
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 04 MAY 2025 9:51AM by PIB Delhi
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to Mr. Lawrence Wong on his victory in the elections. He emphasized the strong and multifaceted partnership, underpinned by close people-to-people ties between India and Singapore.
In a post on X, he wrote:
“Heartiest congratulations @LawrenceWongST on your resounding victory in the general elections. India and Singapore share a strong and multifaceted partnership, underpinned by close people-to-people ties. I look forward to continue working closely with you to further advance our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.”
Heartiest congratulations @LawrenceWongST on your resounding victory in the general elections. India and Singapore share a strong and multifaceted partnership, underpinned by close people-to-people ties. I look forward to continue working closely with you to further advance our…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 4, 2025
***
MJPS/SR/SKS
(Release ID: 2126661) Visitor Counter : 97
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
Serious crash at Stoodley
Saturday, 3 May 2025 – 10:29 am.
A 44 year old man is in a serious condition following a crash on Bridle Track Road at Stoodley yesterday.
The single vehicle crash involving the green BMW sedan with a single occupant occurred around 4:30pm. Witnesses reported that the vehicle lost control and rolled into the Dasher River.
A short time prior to the crash, police travelling in the opposite direction detected the same vehicle travelling above the posted speed limit and were in the process of safely turning around to make an attempt to intercept it. The police vehicle’s emergency warning devices were activated whilst trying to find the vehicle. Police did not locate the vehicle and shortly thereafter were notified it had crashed.
As is normal practice in these circumstances, a Professional Standards investigation will be conducted into the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Police are on the scene this morning conducting investigations and Bridle Track Road will be closed to all traffic while the investigation is underway.
Police are calling for witnesses to the crash or any person who observed the vehicle’s manner or driving to come forward.
Anyone with dash cam footage or information should contact Police on 131444 or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestopperstas.com.au.
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
Men Charged After Evade Incident
Saturday, 3 May 2025 – 2:47 pm.
Two men have been charged with numerous offences following a protracted incident yesterday. Both men had been actively avoiding police and were arrested following the incident where they utilised two vehicles in an attempt to evade police. Today, they have been charged with a total of 60 offences.
A 22 year old man with no fixed address has been charged with 35 separate charges including:
1x Dangerous Driving
2x Evade Police (aggravated circumstances)
1x Aggravated assault
1x Attempted Carjacking
4x Drive whilst not the holder of a driver’s licence
1x Computer related Fraud
7x Motor Vehicle stealing
1x Possess a controlled drug
1x Unlawful possession of property
1x Breach of interim Family Violence Order
9x Breaches of bail
2x Burglary
1x Stealing
1x Attempted stealing
1x Destroy property
1x Dangerous article in public place
2x FTA Warrant
1x Warrant First instance
A 19 year old man from Herdsman Cove has been charged with 25 charges including:
1x Motor vehicle stealing
17x Breach of family violence order
1x Possess a firearm to which a firearms licence may not be issued.
1x Possess ammunition when not the holder of the appropriate firearm licence.
1x Breach of restraint order
1x Breach of bail conditions
1x Unlawfully possess dangerous article in a public place.
1x Possess a controlled drug
1x Dangerous article in public place
Tasmania Police would like to thank the members of the public who have provided information to support the investigation.
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
Police investigate Moonah house fire
Friday, 2 May 2025 – 7:50 am.
Police are investigating a structure fire in Amiens Avenue, Moonah last night.Police and Tas Fire Service attended the property just after 11:30pm with theresidence well alight.TFS gained control of the fire quickly and prevented the fire from spreading toneighbouring properties.The owner of the property was taken to the Royal Hobart Hospital fortreatment.Investigations are continuing.
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
Man in serious condition following crash near Stoodley
Friday, 2 May 2025 – 10:51 am.
A 44 year old man is in a serious condition following a crash on Bridle Track Road at Stoodley yesterday.The single vehicle crash involving the green BMW sedan with a single occupant occurred around 4:30pm. Witnesses reported that the vehicle lost control and rolled into the Dasher River.A short time prior to the crash, police travelling in the opposite direction detected the same vehicle travelling above the posted speed limit and were in the process of safely turning around to make an attempt to intercept it. The police vehicle’s emergency warning devices were activated whilst trying to find the vehicle. Police did not locate the vehicle and shortly thereafter were notified it had crashed.As is normal practice in these circumstances, a Professional Standards investigation will be conducted into the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.Police are on the scene this morning conducting investigations and Bridle Track Road will be closed to all traffic while the investigation is underway.Police are calling for witnesses to the crash or any person who observed the vehicle’s manner or driving to come forward.Anyone with dash cam footage or information should contact Police on 131444 or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestopperstas.com.au.
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
Two men charged after Hobart evade incident
Friday, 2 May 2025 – 3:52 pm.
Two men have been charged with numerous offences following a protracted incident yesterday. Both men had been actively avoiding police and were arrested following the incident where they utilised two vehicles in an attempt to evade police. Today, they have been charged with a total of 60 offences.
A 22 year old man with no fixed address has been charged with 35 separate charges including:1x Dangerous Driving2x Evade Police (aggravated circumstances)1x Aggravated assault1x Attempted Carjacking4x Drive whilst not the holder of a driver’s licence1x Computer related Fraud7x Motor Vehicle stealing1x Possess a controlled drug1x Unlawful possession of property1x Breach of interim Family Violence Order9x Breaches of bail2x Burglary1x Stealing1x Attempted stealing1x Destroy property1x Dangerous article in public place2x FTA Warrant1x Warrant First instance
A 19 year old man from Herdsman Cove has been charged with 25 charges including:
1x Motor vehicle stealing17x Breach of family violence order1x Possess a firearm to which a firearms licence may not be issued.1x Possess ammunition when not the holder of the appropriate firearm licence.1x Breach of restraint order1x Breach of bail conditions1x Unlawfully possess dangerous article in a public place.1x Possess a controlled drug1x Dangerous article in public place
Tasmania Police would like to thank the members of the public who have provided information to support the investigation.
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
Police investigate Kingston house fire
Friday, 2 May 2025 – 3:53 pm.
Approximately 8:30am on 3 May 2025, Police and the Tasmania Fire Service were called to Lewan Avenue, Kingston in relation to a house on fire.The unit suffered significant damage, however the fire was contained within the address and extinguished.The fire appears to be suspicious and a 52 year-old Kingston man is currently assisting police with their enquiries.This appears to be an isolated incident and there is no threat to the wider community.Anyone with information is encouraged to contact:Tasmania Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at crimestoppers.com.au
Source: US State of Pennsylvania
May 05, 2025 – Uniontown, PA
Pennsylvania Secretary of Human Services Dr. Val Arkoosh will join leaders from West Virginia University Medicine at Uniontown Hospital to tour their recently reopened maternity unit, which brings labor and delivery services back to the Uniontown community. The visit will also highlight Governor Josh Shapiro’s proposed 2025-26 budget and the significant investments it proposes for hospitals, maternal health, and the rural health care workforce across the state.
Since taking office, Governor Shapiro has prioritized addressing maternal health disparities and access to quality health care for all Pennsylvanians. The Governor’s 2025-2026 budget proposal provides $5 million to fund maternal health initiatives, which builds on the success of the 2024-25 bipartisan budget that included $2.6 million for maternal mortality prevention.
In addition, the Governor’s budget proposal makes targeted investments to expand the health care workforce, ensure rural communities have access to care, and help keep hospitals open. The budget proposal includes $10 million in state funds to support rural hospitals and an additional $10 million for hospitals statewide – investments that can lead to additional federal funding to support health care systems that are the backbone of their communities.
WHO:
Department of Human Services Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh
WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital President and CEO, Carrie Willetts
WVU Medicine Children’s Birthing Center at Uniontown Hospital Medical Director, Lawrence Glad, MD
WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital Clinical Director of Obstetrics, Beth LaFrankie, MSN, RNC-NIC
WHEN:
Monday, May 5, 2025, at 10:15 AM
WHERE:
Uniontown Hospital
500 W Berkeley Street
Uniontown, PA 15401
MEDIA RSVP:
Please bring a photo ID. Media interested in attending must RSVP with the name of the reporter and photojournalist to ra-pwdhspressoffice@pa.gov.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Canberrans who own ZEVs are helping to reduce the city’s use of fossil fuels.
You might have heard that zero emissions vehicles (ZEVs) can save you money and are better for the environment.
But have you ever wondered just how much of an impact they actually have?
We’ve done the maths to reveal just how much of a difference they can make for Canberrans.
Households with electric vehicles could save up to $2,000 per year over the next 10 years.
That’s according to the Australian Energy Market Commission’s recent report on Residential electricity price trends 2024.
Electric vehicles are cheaper to run than petrol, diesel and hybrid alternatives. This is because electricity costs less than petrol or diesel and maintenance is cheaper.
You can increase your savings even further if you:
The ACT has some of the most generous financial incentives available for ZEV purchase in Australia. These include:
Prices for new ZEVs are continuing to drop, with many options now available below $40,000. New manufactures are continuing to enter the market, which increases competition, reducing vehicle prices further.
With more than 10,000 ZEVs on the road, Canberrans are saving almost $24 million per year on running costs.
Doing your bit to reduce emissions helps our city take action on climate change.
More than 40 percent of the ACT’s greenhouse gas emissions come from private vehicle use.
With 10,000 ZEVs on the road, emissions are reduced by 32,600 tonnes of carbon dioxide a year. That has real benefits to our environment, health and the quality of our air.
Canberrans who own ZEVs are helping to reduce the city’s use of non-renewable energy sources. They are helping us save around 13 million litres of petrol or diesel per year. That’s roughly five Olympic swimming pools.
To find out how much you could save by making the switch to electric, try our free Total Cost of Ownership tool.
Visit the Climate Choices website for more information on owning a ZEV in the ACT.
Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswomen Doris Matsui (CA-07), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) and Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) led 63 House Democrats in a letter to Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. expressing their strong opposition to the elimination of the Administration for Community Living (ACL) and the unjustified termination of nearly half of the agency’s workforce.
“Established in 2012, the ACL was created to eliminate fragmentation in federal programs for aging and disability populations, improve access to quality healthcare and long-term services, and ensure consistent policies across federal agencies,” wrote the lawmakers. “ACL’s workforce plays a crucial role in managing and coordinating federal, state, and local programs aimed at helping seniors and people with disabilities remain healthy and thrive in their homes and communities.”
“We are gravely concerned about your arbitrary directive to dismantle the ACL and urgently request answers to understand the wide-ranging consequences this decision will have upon the health and wellbeing of older adults and individuals with disabilities,” the lawmakers continued.
This letter is in response to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) announcement to end ACL’s critical programs across the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE), and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). This month, a draft budget proposal outlining the proposed elimination of ACL’s Aging Programs and Nutrition and Disability Services Programs from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) was made public.
This letter has been endorsed by Justice in Aging, National Health Law Program (NHeLP), National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care, National Council on Aging, National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA), USAging, Caring Across Generations, Autistic Self Advocacy Network, and National Association of Social Workers (NASW).
Full text of the letter can be found here and below.
Dear Secretary Kennedy:
We are writing to express our strong opposition to the disbandment of the Administration for Community Living (ACL), the closure of ACL’s Regional Offices, and the unjustified termination of nearly half of the agency’s workforce, all of which threaten the delivery of critical services for our nation’s seniors, people with disabilities, families, and caregivers. Millions of Americans rely on the ACL’s supportive services—such as Meals on Wheels, caregiver supports, respite, and adult protective services—to live independently and with dignity. We are gravely concerned about your arbitrary directive to dismantle the ACL and urgently request answers to understand the wide-ranging consequences this decision will have upon the health and wellbeing of older adults and individuals with disabilities.
ACL’s workforce plays a crucial role in managing and coordinating federal, state, and local programs aimed at helping seniors and people with disabilities remain healthy and thrive in their homes and communities. Established in 2012, the ACL was created to eliminate fragmentation in federal programs for aging and disability populations, improve access to quality healthcare and long-term services, and ensure consistent policies across federal agencies. The Older Americans Act (OAA) authorizes funding for various ACL- administered programs and activities, providing nearly $1.9 billion in 2024. The ACL oversees grants for state and community programs on aging, including nutrition services, in-home care, transportation, legal assistance, and research. For example, the ACL manages funding for research, training, and demonstration projects, such as the Alzheimer’s Disease Program, Chronic Disease Self-Management Education Program, Elder Falls Prevention Program, and the Senior Medicare Patrol Program. The ACL is also responsible for funding and overseeing disability programs under the Developmental Disabilities Act to support people with disabilities and their families through the State Councils on Developmental Disabilities and University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDDs), and to protect people with disabilities from abuse and neglect through the Protection & Advocacy programs. Moreover, the ACL administers the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program and the Elder Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Prevention Program. These programs advocate for the rights of residents in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities and train professionals in elder abuse prevention. Additionally, the ACL manages the State Health Insurance Assistance Program, which offers cost-free, unbiased Medicare guidance to seniors, people with disabilities, and their families. Lastly, The ACL also funds and administers the independent living programs, the state Assistive Technology Programs, and the Aging and Disability Resource Centers to help people get the supports they need to live in the community instead of nursing homes or other institutions.
We understand that HHS has eliminated the staff of entire offices within ACL—seemingly eliminating these offices altogether. For example, the Center for Policy and Evaluation plays a critical role in supporting the Assistant Secretary for Aging in her role as the advisor to the HHS Secretary on aging and disability policy, engaging across HHS to ensure policies consider the needs of these populations, and evaluating the effectiveness of programs consistent with statutory requirements. We understand that all staff in that office have been fired. Finally, we understand that virtually all staff in the Center for Management and Budget, including the budget and grant staff that distribute and monitor funding, have been terminated. Finally, your announcement to eliminate all of ACL’s regional staff will put the direct work with local grantees, particularly the regional staff’s critical coordinating role during natural disasters and other emergencies, at risk.
We are also deeply concerned with your decision to dissolve the ACL and reallocate whichever programs and functions HHS unilaterally decides to keep. We understand from HHS’ April 2nd fact sheet, HHS’ Transformation to Make America Healthy Again, that HHS plans to dismantle unspecified ACL functions across agencies, such as the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE), and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). On April 16th, a draft budget proposal from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) was made public, outlining the proposed elimination of the ACL’s Elder Falls Prevention, Long-term Care Ombudsman, Elder Rights Support Activities, etc. Additionally, the proposal recommended eliminating ACL’s Nutrition and Disability Services programs, including the State Councils on Developmental Disabilities, Paralysis Resource Center, Limb Loss Resource Center, etc. Lastly, the proposal suggested shifting the aging programs to CMS, the disability and nutrition programs to ACF, and the National Institute of Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR), along with the UCEDD’s, to the Office of Strategy. ACL has been successful in coordinating across the aging and disability networks, ensuring that limited resources can reach most people.
Spreading ACL’s programs across three separate agencies will undermine the efficiencies that have been created by housing these programs together.
Given the severe impacts that ACL’s disbandment and mass staff firings will have on the health of seniors and people with disabilities, we request that you respond to the following questions no later than May 20th:
# # #
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California
Boston – Yesterday, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi virtually joined PBS News Hour co-anchor and co-managing editor Geoff Bennett at the Reframe Festival in San Francisco to discuss the future of Democratic leadership. The conversation was presented by PBS News in partnership with Bay Area member station KQED.
Click here to watch the full conversation.
Read key quotes from the conversation below:
On President Trump’s proposed Budget:
Speaker Emerita Pelosi. The budget that the President put out that we just are reviewing now is one that is really a shame.
A budget should be a statement of our national values. What is important to us as a nation should be reflected in that budget. It should be a budget of investing in our future for our children and the rest. And if you review the budget that the President put forth, he cuts education. Nothing brings more money to the Treasury than the education of the American people. Early childhood, K-12, higher education, post-grad, lifetime learning for our workers.
The best dollar you can spend in the federal budget, I do believe, is basic biomedical research. The biblical power to cure, to save lives, to save funds for families who are confronted with illness and the rest. The list goes on and on. And why? Because he says he has to cut so that he can be fiscally sound—at the same time as he’s giving enormous tax cuts to the wealthiest people in our country.
On Democrats choosing when to fight back:
Speaker Emerita Pelosi. You have to prioritize carefully and make the distinction so the American people can see what impact this has on their lives—carefully prioritizing and at the same time show the narrative, again, with some specific issues, show the narrative thematically of what he is doing to our country. Again: disgraceful, shameful, un-American.
So again, we always have this debate: whether we go for opportunity, security, all of those things or specific pieces of legislation—we do both.
On Leader Hakeem Jeffries:
Speaker Emerita Pelosi. Our Leader, Hakeem Jeffries, is a master of this: repetition. Prioritize and repeat. Repetition, repetition, repetition. He’s so eloquent, and he’s so forceful in getting the message across.
And we know what is going to make things different too—by using different platforms. When I was Leader, we won in ’06, we won in ’18. But now we have different platforms—taking messages to platforms where people receive their information much more instantaneously. And he understands all of that. I’m so proud of his leadership.
He has the unity of our Caucus, the brilliance, and the strategic thinking of a leader. And again, values that would be reflected in a budget put forth by the Democrats and Leader Jeffries.
On a new generation of Democratic leadership:
Speaker Emerita Pelosi. Well, I’m an advocate for it. I was very, very proud to step aside. I wish that we had been in the majority—we will be in about eighteen months. And the point is, when I became the Leader after Dick Gephardt, he very graciously—when I became Leader, he did not interfere. And I don’t interfere. It’s about a new generation of leadership, thinking differently, employing the different tools of communication that exist now, and again, having the unity of the Caucus to support what you’re doing—not only as Leader but the legislation that you would put forth.
But we have to make sure the public knows what is in their interest—their kitchen table interest—the cost of health care and prescription drugs, the cost of education, the cost of housing, all of it.
And compare where the Democrats are and where the Republicans are on all of it. And as I say, not only Hakeem, but the rest of the Leadership—Katherine Clark, Massachusetts, her state; Pete Aguilar from California; Ted Lieu from California—so many, all champions on messaging and champions for working families.
On a Republican cuts to the American safety net:
Speaker Emerita Pelosi. As far as Medicare, Social Security—they paid into this. It’s not an entitlement. This is their money. They paid into this for their whole working careers. And now they’re going to say, we’re going to cut this out because we need to save money so we can give tax cuts to the richest people in America?
No. No, we’re not doing that.
On repairing the damage President Trump is doing:
Speaker Emerita Pelosi. This is what we did in ’18. The President said, he said in the very distinguished way as he’s used to speaking, ‘Obamacare sucks.’
I hate to even quote him, but I hope my grandchildren aren’t listening. Obamacare doesn’t suck. It cures. It cures.
We went out there. We had 10,000 events around the country of people telling their stories. They didn’t talk about politics or provisions of the bill. They talked about their stories:
‘My baby was born with a heart condition.’
‘My wife had breast cancer.’
‘My mother — this or that.’
They told their stories and how that bill made a difference in their lives. Not only did we win the election, we won it with 40 seats—31 of them in Trump districts. People said to me afterward, ‘Aren’t you lucky that the Affordable Care Act—that health care—became such a central issue of the campaign?’
I said, ‘No, we weren’t lucky. We made our own luck.’
And that’s what we will do between now and the election.
We will win the House. Hakeem will be the Speaker. He’ll be historic in his leadership—as well as the other members of the Leadership—and all of it because of the courage of our Members to take the tough votes to get the job done.
On a potential peace deal in Ukraine:
Speaker Emerita Pelosi. I have no idea what it is that Putin has on Trump—politically, personally, financially, whatever it happens to be—that he should be kowtowing to Putin over and over again, saying that the Ukrainians started the war.
But forget about that. [Russia] came into this country. They raped the women. They did that in front of their children, in front of their parents.
They kidnapped the children—tens of thousands of them—sent them to Russia, far reaches of Russia. They murdered people in front of their family members. And they’re supposed to get land for that? That’s not where I am.
But I’m not the President of Ukraine. I respect whatever decision he makes. But for us to say Russia should get land in order to leave—after they’ve committed crimes against humanity? Crimes against humanity.
I don’t think Putin can go anyplace without getting arrested for his crimes against humanity—at least Europe recognizes that. Others recognize that—even if Donald Trump thinks that’s okay.
On her proudest accomplishment and legacy:
Speaker Emerita Pelosi. Of course, the Affordable Care Act. Because this was directly, directly beneficial to America’s working families.
And it’s about the national health care financial stability as well. But with all legislation, you want to do more. You don’t do more in terms of lowering the cost of prescription drugs.
We did that in the IRA, but we can’t do it totally. We have to do it in stages, and I would like to do it all at once. But we have to get it passed in the Congress.
What was the hardest thing? Well, I always knew we had the votes.
# # #
Source: Government of Canada News
May 4, 2025 – Ottawa, ON – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
Today, Canadians and sailors from coast to coast to coast commemorated the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Atlantic.
We pause with solemn reverence to honour the courage and sacrifice of the sailors of the Royal Canadian Navy, the Naval Reserve, the Women’s Royal Canadian Naval Service, the Royal Canadian Air Force, and the Merchant Navy. As we contemplate a time of renewed great power competition and with a major land war underway in Europe, their legacy resonates now more than ever.
The Battle of the Atlantic, the longest of the Second World War, ensured that reinforcements and supplies made it to Europe, enabling the hard-fought Allied victory. Its cost was profound: over 2,100 Canadian sailors, more than 1,700 merchant mariners, and over 900 aviators lost their lives. We should never forget that it was also a battle that came to Canadian waters as well with 23 ships sunk in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and St. Lawrence River.
The bravery and resolve of those who served continue to inspire. Their story is a proud and enduring chapter in Canadian military history. Today, our sailors carry that legacy forward—steadfast in their duty to serve and defend Canada, ready to safeguard all three of our coasts and oceans.
Source: Central Bank of Bahrain
CBB Organizes Workshop on “Legal Professionals Account Opening Guidance”
Published on 4 May 2025
Manama, Bahrain – 04 May 2025 – In line with the newly introduced requirements by the Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Waqf, the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) hosted a workshop to discuss the “Legal Professionals Account Opening Guidance” paper issued by the Central Bank of Bahrain. The session focused on showcasing the process retail banks are expected to follow when opening accounts for lawyers or law firms.
Under the updated requirements, legal professionals must have dedicated bank accounts for client payments, which may only be opened upon receiving a no-objection certificate from the Ministry. The letter must also include relevant Know Your Client (KYC) information, aligning the process with established compliance and transparency standards.
The workshop was attended by nearly 60 representatives from the CBB, the Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Waqf, and various retail banks. The opening remarks were delivered by Mr. Nawaf Ahmed Bubshait, Director of the Compliance Directorate at CBB, followed by Mr. Salman Al-Ameri, General Registrar at the Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Waqf. The CBB’s Compliance team followed with a detailed presentation and opened the floor to questions posed by the participants.
On the occasion, Mr. Nawaf Ahmed Bubshait said: “The CBB remains committed to strengthening its cooperation with the relevant entities and maintaining open channels of communication with public and private sector organizations. We aim to support our licensees as they navigate evolving developments in money laundering, terrorism financing, and proliferation financing. The publication of our guidance paper for legal professionals stems from our proactive approach to ensuring financial institutions are aligned with the relevant international compliance standards.”
For his part, Mr. Salman Al-Ameri remarked: “Through this joint workshop, the Ministry is pleased to collaborate with the CBB to support the implementation of the new regulatory framework. These guidelines represent a significant milestone towards enhancing oversight and accountability in the banking sector, and we commend the Bank’s efforts in ensuring the implementation of these standards.”
The CBB continues to issue guidance papers and hosts workshops, seminars, and roundtable discussions on an annual basis to keep licensees informed about ongoing regulatory developments and supervisory expectations.
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Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police
Three people have been arrested in London as part of a Counter Terrorism Policing investigation.
Two of the men [A and B] were arrested at separate addresses in north west London and one man [C] was arrested at an address in west London on Saturday, 3 May, as part of the investigation, which is being led by the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command.
The men, aged 39 [A], 44 [B] and 55 [C], and who are all Iranian nationals were arrested and detained under section 27 of the National Security Act 2023.
All three men have been taken into custody and searches continue at the three addresses.
This investigation is not connected to the arrest of five people yesterday as part of a separate Met Counter Terrorism operation.
Enquiries remain ongoing.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Transport Department alerts public to fraudulent websites purported to be from HKeToll
Members of the public should stay alert when receiving any unidentified messages, and should not visit suspicious websites or disclose any personal information. Anyone who has provided his or her personal information to the websites concerned should contact the Police. For enquiries about the HKeToll, please call 3853 7333.
Issued at HKT 18:35
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information following a hit and run incident that occurred in Palmerston on Friday 25 April 2025.
Approximately 7:00pm, a pedestrian was struck by a vehicle whilst crossing the outbound lane of Temple Terrace in Gray, just before the Emery Avenue roundabout.
The vehicle involved is believed to be an older model silver four-door sedan, travelling southbound along Temple Terrace at the time of the incident. The driver failed to stop and render assistance and continued to drive outbound after striking the pedestrian.
A passerby observed the injured male and provided assistance at the scene until police and St John Ambulance arrived. The pedestrian was then conveyed to Royal Darwin Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Police are urging anyone with information or who may have dash-cam footage or CCTV from the area around the time of the collision, to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number NTP2500043020.
Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information in relation to an aggravated assault that occurred in Palmerston overnight.
Around 10:05pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received a report of an unconscious male at an address in Johnston. It is alleged the unknown offender seriously assaulted the victim before fleeing the scene.
Police and St John Ambulance attended, and the victim was conveyed to Royal Darwin Hospital with serious head injuries. He remains in hospital in a serious but stable condition.
The alleged offender remains outstanding, and investigations are ongoing.
Detectives urge anyone with information about the incident to contact police on 131 444, quoting reference number NTP2500045794. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au.
ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 4, 2025.
Too many journalists remain silent over the Gaza genocide, a threat to our media credibility
Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific. – By David Robie on World Press Freedom Day 2025 I ask you now: Do not stop speaking about Gaza. Do not let the world look away. Keep fighting, keep telling our stories – until Palestine is free. These are not my words, although I believe and
Labor makes Senate gains, and left-wing parties will hold a Senate majority
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne On Saturday, Labor won a thumping victory in the House of Representatives, and this has carried over to the Senate results. Only 35% of enrolled voters have
Rabuka salutes Fiji media but warns against taking freedom for granted
By Anish Chand in Suva Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has paid tribute to all those working the media industry in his message to mark World Press Freedom Day. He said in his May 3 message thanks to democracy his coalition government had removed the “dark days of oppression and suppressions”. “Today as we join
Albanese increases majority and Dutton loses seat in stunning election landslide
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra The Albanese government has been re-elected with a substantially increased majority, and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has lost his seat, in a crushing defeat of the Coalition. As of late Saturday night, there was a two-party swing to Labor of
Labor wins election in landslide: full results
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Digital Storytelling Team, The Conversation The Conversation, CC BY-SA Digital Storytelling Team 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. – ref. Labor
Labor wins surprise landslide, returned with a thumping majority
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne With 52% of enrolled voters counted, The Poll Bludger has Labor ahead in 92 of the 150 House of Representatives seats, the Coalition in 43, the Greens
Labor routs the Coalition as voters reject Dutton’s undercooked offering
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra In a dramatic parallel, what happened in Canada at the beginning of this week has now been replicated in Australia at the end of the week. An opposition that a few months ago had looked just possibly on track to
Dutton and the Coalition did not do the work, and misread the Australian mood
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mark Kenny, Professor, Australian Studies Institute, Australian National University The former federal director of the Liberal Party, Brian Loughnane, used to tell media companies that their practice of commissioning expensive opinion polls right through a parliamentary term was a waste of money. Election 2025 seemed to vindicate
Labor wins with a superior campaign and weak opposition – now it’s time to make the second term really matter
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Chris Wallace, Professor, School of Politics Economics & Society, Faculty of Business Government & Law, University of Canberra Superior campaigning by the Labor machine, a lift in the personal performance of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and a woeful campaign by Opposition Leader Peter Dutton have seen Labor
Albanese’s government might not thrill, but it has shown unity and competence – and that’s no mean feat
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Frank Bongiorno, Professor of History, ANU College of Arts and Social Sciences, Australian National University The Coalition’s election campaign of 2025 has a strong claim to be considered among the worst since federation. I know of none more shambolic. Barely a day passed without some new misstep
Palestine protesters march on TVNZ, accuse broadcaster of bias on Gaza
Asia Pacific Report About 1000 pro-Palestinian protesters marked World Press Freedom Day — May 3 — today by marching on the public broadcaster Television New Zealand in Auckland, accusing it of 18 months of “biased coverage” on the genocidal Israeli war against Gaza. They delivered a letter to the management board of TVNZ from Palestine
Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police
Counter Terrorism Police have arrested five people on suspicion of terrorism offences as part of a proactive investigation, which is being led by the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command.
The men, who were arrested on Saturday, 3 May, as part of a pre-planned operation are as follows:
[A] a 29-year-old man was arrested in the Swindon area
[B] a 46-year-old man was arrested in west London
[C] a 29-year-old man was arrested in the Stockport area
[D] a 40-year-old man was arrested in the Rochdale area
[E] a man (age to be confirmed) was arrested in the Manchester area
All five men were arrested on suspicion of preparation of a terrorist act, contrary to section 5 of the Terrorism Act (TACT), 2006. Four men [A-D] are Iranian nationals and were detained under TACT. The nationality of the fifth man [E] is still being established and he was detained under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE). All five men currently remain in police custody.
As part of the investigation, officers are also carrying out searches at a number of addresses in the Greater Manchester, London and Swindon areas in connection with this investigation.
The investigation relates to a suspected plot to target a specific premises. Officers have been in contact with the affected site to make them aware and provide relevant advice and support, but for operational reasons, we are not able to provide further information at this time.
Commander Dominic Murphy, Head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, said: “This is a fast-moving investigation and we are working closely with those at the affected site to keep them updated.
“The investigation is still in its early stages and we are exploring various lines of enquiry to establish any potential motivation as well as to identify whether there may be any further risk to the public linked to this matter.
“We understand the public may be concerned and as always, I would ask them to remain vigilant and if they see or hear anything that concerns them, then to contact us.
“We are working closely with local officers in the areas where we have made arrests today and I’d like to thank police colleagues around the country for their ongoing support.”
The arrests and search activity is being supported by officers from Greater Manchester Police and Wiltshire Police, as well as colleagues from Counter Terrorism Policing from across the country.
As always, we would ask the public to remain vigilant and if they see or hear anything that doesn’t look or feel right, then to report it to police – either by calling police, in confidence, on 0800 789 321 or via www.gov.uk/ACT
In an emergency, always dial 999.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
    Police reclassified an assault occasioning actual bodily harm (AOABH) case in Mong Kok yesterday (May 2) as murder.
    At 6.33am yesterday, Police received a report from a staff member of a hotel on Prince Edward Road West that a woman collapsed in a room.
    Police officers sped to the scene and found the 46-year-old woman lying on a chair. Sustaining injuries to her face, she was rushed to Kwong Wah Hospital in unconscious state and was certified dead at 5.23pm on the same day.
    Initial investigation revealed that the deceased was allegedly assaulted by a man with a hard object. The assailant then fled away.
    Police arrested the 42-year-old man in Mong Kok for AOABH yesterday. He is being detained for enquiries.
    Upon further investigation, Police reclassified the case as murder. Post-mortem examinations will be conducted later to ascertain the cause of death.
    Active investigation by the District Crime Squad of Mong Kok District is under way. Anyone who witnessed the case or has any information to offer is urged to contact the investigating officers on 3661 8741.