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Check FAQAbout Catherine
I am an Australian freelance journalist based in Kabul, Afghanistan. I have worked for a variety of news outlets, mostly writing about people living in conflict zones, in the four years I have been based here. In the last six months I have written for The Guardian, The Daily Mail, ABC (Australia) Online, NewsCorp Australia, and Deutsche Welle. The stories were written from South Turkey about the siege of the Kurdish town of Kobane in Syria, from Afghanistan's southern province of Helmand about the plight of civilians in one of the country's most hotly contested regions, and from the eastern Khost province about the North Waziristani people fleeing Pakistan's military operation in their region, only to set up a refugee camp on an old minefield in Afghanistan. I am also frequently called on to do radio crosses with CBS news radio from Afghanistan.
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Taronga Western Plains Zoo unveils $12.1 million platypus refuge to help slow decline of species
Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo has opened a $12.1 million platypus exhibit and refuge, named Platypus Rescue HQ, aimed at rescue, research, and rehabilitation. The facility, funded by the NSW government, Taronga Conservation Society Australia, and philanthropic donors, seeks to address the fragmentation and local extinctions of platypus populations across Australia's east coast. The refuge is also open to the public, offering educational opportunities about platypus conservation. Key figures, including Minister for Climate Change and the Environment Penny Sharpe and zoo director Steve Hinks, emphasize the importance of these efforts to ensure the species' survival.
Winter tips for pet reptiles at the Oklahoma Reptile Show
The Oklahoma Reptile Show attracted numerous exotic pet enthusiasts to Tulsa, where they could buy and sell reptiles and other cold-blooded animals. Amethyst Halvorsen, owner of Bio Boutique, shared tips on keeping these pets warm during winter, emphasizing the importance of heat lamps or mats, maintaining humidity, and handling pets safely to prevent Salmonella transmission. The event highlighted the need for proper care and the potential risks associated with keeping reptiles as pets.
Master plan for Kirkpatrick Heights and Greenwood area unveiled
The finalized master plan for the Kirkpatrick Heights and Greenwood area in Tulsa, encompassing 56 acres, was unveiled by the Kirkpatrick Heights Planning Committee and Partner Tulsa. The plan includes affordable housing, businesses, jobs, playgrounds, and green spaces, aiming to revitalize a historically significant but neglected part of Tulsa. Dr. Lana Turner-Addison highlighted the area's history and the need for community involvement. The city has pledged $2 million, with further fundraising and infrastructure development as the next steps.
Winter tips for pet reptiles at the Oklahoma Reptile Show
The Oklahoma Reptile Show in Tulsa attracted many exotic pet enthusiasts. Amethyst Halvorsen from Bio Boutique provided essential winter care tips for reptiles, emphasizing the importance of heat lamps, heat mats, ambient temperature control, humidity, and hydration. She also advised on safe handling practices to prevent Salmonella transmission. The event will return to Tulsa on February 26, 2023.
OHP warns people about drunk driving during holidays
Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) warns about the dangers of drunk driving during the holiday season, highlighting the severe consequences such as property damage, injuries, and fatalities. Lieutenant Mark Southall advises against drinking before driving and emphasizes the importance of making safe decisions. Chris Armstrong, owner of Arnie’s Bar in Tulsa, suggests using ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft and having designated drivers to ensure safety. The article underscores the importance of responsible behavior to prevent accidents and keep everyone safe during the holidays.
OHP warns people about drunk driving during holidays
Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) emphasizes the dangers of drunk driving during the holiday season, highlighting the potential for property damage, injuries, and fatalities. Lieutenant Mark Southall advises against drinking before driving and stresses the importance of making safe decisions. Arnie’s Bar in Tulsa, a popular spot during Thanksgiving, encourages patrons to use ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft and to have designated drivers. The article underscores the importance of safety and responsibility during holiday celebrations.
Mayor G.T. Bynum to delegate funding to mental health crisis center YES Tulsa
Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum announced plans to collaborate with the Tulsa City Council to allocate $1 million for the city's first 24/7 urgent mental health crisis center, Youth Evaluation Services (YES Tulsa), dedicated to assisting children and families. The center aims to address the high number of suicide attempts among Tulsa County children and provide immediate evaluations and stabilization in a family-friendly environment. YES Tulsa Program Director Solmaz Bulut and Clinical Director Andre Campbell emphasized the need for immediate options and early intervention. Jeff Dismukes from the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services supported the initiative, noting the overcapacity of emergency room beds and the importance of accessible care.
Tulsa City Council District 5 recount begins Thursday
Tulsa City Council District 5 recount began after candidate Grant Miller requested it, following alleged irregularities in two precincts. Incumbent Mykey Arthrell called for a new election. The recount stems from 31 voters not receiving the correct ballots. Attorneys for both candidates presented evidence supporting their claims. The judge granted a continuance until November 22, with the recount deadline set for 3 p.m. Friday.
OKPOP appoints new chairperson, updates fundraising timeline
Scott Petty has been appointed as the new chairperson of the OKPOP museum fundraising group. Petty, who has nearly two decades of fundraising experience, is set to guide the foundation's efforts to raise $30 million needed to complete the museum's exhibits. The building is finished, and collections are on site, but the COVID-19 pandemic has delayed fundraising and scheduling. Despite the setbacks, Petty is confident the project will be completed within the next 24 months.
Gun buyback in Tulsa turns guns into garden tools
A successful gun buyback event in Tulsa, organized by the Tulsa Metropolitan Ministry, saw 57 guns turned in, including an AR-styled rifle. The event, supported by military veteran blacksmiths, aimed to transform the firearms into garden tools. Participants received gift cards in exchange for their guns, and the event also promoted safe firearm storage by distributing free locks. Reverend Twila Gibbens and Army Veteran Ragnar Crowson highlighted the event's importance for community safety and personal healing. Despite minor protests, organizers plan to hold another event in the spring.
OKPOP appoints new chairperson, updates fundraising timeline
The OKPOP museum fundraising group has appointed Scott Petty as the new chairperson. Petty, who has extensive experience in professional fundraising, takes on this role during a critical time for the museum's development. The museum needs $30 million to complete its exhibits, with the building and collections already in place. Despite setbacks due to COVID-19, Petty is confident that the project will be completed within the next 24 months. The appointment is seen as a full-circle moment, as Petty was a close friend of the late Steve Ripley, a major supporter of the museum.
OKPOP appoints new chairperson, updates fundraising timeline
The OKPOP museum fundraising group has appointed Scott Petty as the new chairperson. Petty, who has extensive experience in professional fundraising, takes on this role during a critical development phase for the museum. The museum, which has completed its building and acquired collections, now seeks $30 million to build exhibits. Despite delays caused by COVID-19, Petty is confident the project will be completed within the next 24 months. The appointment is seen as a full-circle moment, honoring the late Steve Ripley, a key supporter of the museum.
Gun buyback in Tulsa turns guns into garden tools
A successful gun buyback event in Tulsa, organized by the Tulsa Metropolitan Ministry, saw 57 guns turned in to be repurposed into garden tools by a team of blacksmiths, all military veterans. The event, which offered gift cards in exchange for firearms, aimed to promote safe storage and remove potentially dangerous guns from the community. Reverend Twila Gibbens and Army Veteran Ragnar Crowson highlighted the event's positive impact on community safety and personal healing. Despite minor protests, organizers plan to hold another event in the spring.
Master plan for Kirkpatrick Heights and Greenwood area unveiled
The finalized master plan for the Kirkpatrick Heights and Greenwood area in Tulsa, encompassing 56 acres, was unveiled by the Kirkpatrick Heights Planning Committee and Partner Tulsa. The plan includes affordable housing, businesses, jobs, playgrounds, and green spaces. Dr. Lana Turner-Addison highlighted the historical neglect of the area and emphasized the importance of community involvement. The city has pledged $2 million towards the project, but additional funding is required. The next steps involve fundraising and building the necessary infrastructure.
Tulsa police say storage unit theft was a crime of opportunity
Tulsa police are investigating a series of storage unit burglaries at Briarglen Mini Storage, where a man with a distinctive tattoo forced open the facility's gate and stole thousands of dollars in tools and other items. Lieutenant Tim Means from the TPD's Burglary Unit noted that storage unit thefts are common and often crimes of opportunity. The police are seeking public assistance to identify the suspect.
Ivanka Trump turns hairdresser to give daughter Arabella's locks a trim
Ivanka Trump, known for her multifaceted career, showcased her hairdressing skills by trimming her daughter Arabella's hair, sharing the moment on Instagram. The post received significant engagement, reflecting her active social media presence where she frequently shares family moments. Recently, Ivanka also promoted her fashion label's Fall 2015 collection, expressing her enthusiasm for the campaign shot at Blairsden Mansion in New Jersey. The article highlights Ivanka's balance between her professional endeavors and family life.
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