Shincheonji Church of Jesus’ position on the abrupt cancellation of the Imjingak Peace Nuri Hall for their 110,000 Graduation
Shincheonji Church of Jesus are in the face of legal pressure, following the sudden cancellation and banning of the use of their venue of choice for their annual graduation ceremony for their theology school, Zion Christian Mission Centre.
Shincheonji allege that Gyeonggi Tourism Organization have committed unconstitutional acts of the sudden blockage of their event, on the premise of religious oppression.
Shincheonji Church of Jesus had rented the Imjingak Peace Park in Paju, Gyeonggi Province from October 29 to 31 to hold a Religious Leaders Forum and their 110,000 Graduation Ceremony on the 30th. Tens of thousands of graduates and religious leaders from both Korea and abroad had already entered the country and completed all preparations to participate in the event. Shincheonji had already spent hundreds of billions of won to conduct the event at this scale. However, on the morning of the 29th, it was reported the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization unilaterally cancelled the rental without consultation or notice to the other parties involved.
Frustrations from Shincheonji come from reports that all administrative procedures for the procession of the Religious Leaders Forum and the Graduation Ceremony were of legal nature and in constant cooperation with the Gyeonggi Tourism Organisation – both parties received an approval notice as early as July 22, rental fee from Shincheonji being paid in full on October 2 and on October 16, the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization gave final reviews of all the details of the event, undergoing extensive safety inspections. In particular, on the same day, there was news that Gyeonggi Province had designated the entire Paju City as a danger zone, but under the guise to block the distribution of leaflets to North Korea. Furthermore, on October 23 and 28, figures from the tourism organisation confirmed twice that “there are no plans to cancel the venue booking.”
The Gyeonggi Province Governor Kim Dong-yeon had ordered the cancellation of the venue, due to the reason of “provoking North Korea.”
Shincheonji and many others allege that large-scale events that had taken place at Imjingak Peace Nuri had never brought forth any unwanted attention from the nation’s direct opposition. Speculations arose that it was due to the targeting of a specific religious group from the local government.
Knowing that this stemmed from such and that it also defies many aspects of the Korean constitution, it has caused much outcry from those both in and outside of Shincheonji.
Shincheonji are looking to take all possible legal means to resolve the issue if the events proceed in a way where the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization fail to take responsibility, or fail to settle the matter civilly.
Street protests from members within Shincheonji are also being considered.
Shincheonji are also asking for an official public apology from their former event partners, and to put a halt to religious discrimination against them and others.
Freedom of religion has been stressed heavily, with Shincheonji officials stating “freedom of religion is not a subject of negotiation” in order for them and their congregation to exercise their faith without discrimination.
Sovtech AU Launches in New Zealand, Working with Cure Kids to Deliver Cybersecurity Solutions with a Social Impact
Auckland, New Zealand — Sovtech, a leading Australian cybersecurity firm, is proud to announce its official launch in New Zealand this October, marking a new chapter in its expansion across the Tasman.
Known for its innovative ‘profit for purpose’ business model, Sovtech combines cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions with a strong social mission, including partnerships with significant causes such as Cure Kids – a leading charity dedicated to improving child health in New Zealand.
As part of the New Zealand launch, Sovtech’s Founder and Director, Neil Templeman, will be visiting Auckland on 15 and 16 October to meet with clients, partners, and government officials. Templeman brings a personal connection to New Zealand, having lived here for seven years. His goal is to establish a local presence, creating new jobs and building a robust team to serve New Zealand businesses.
“Launching in New Zealand has been driven by strong demand from customers and our partners. We see a great opportunity to help businesses here enhance their cybersecurity posture while making a positive social impact and we have recently signed our first contract in NZ with a large enterprise customer,” says Templeman.
Sovtech’s unique approach to cybersecurity sets it apart from other providers. The company offers services such as advanced email security, data protection and third-party risk management, but with a difference – profits are reinvested into causes that matter. In Australia, Sovtech has supported First Nations health and education initiatives, and with its New Zealand expansion, it has chosen to align with Cure Kids, a charity focused on funding medical research to improve the health of children.
Cure Kids is enthusiastic about this collaboration. Brendon Pongia, Head of Engagement, commented, “We are excited to have the support of Sovtech, an organisation with a strong social mission and a shared commitment to improving the health of children in New Zealand.”
By launching in New Zealand, Sovtech aims to create a lasting social impact while providing the country’s businesses with industry-leading cybersecurity solutions. Its goal is to offer both private and public sector organisations the tools they need to improve their cyber resilience, while simultaneously contributing to a broader societal mission.
“We believe technology should be a force for good, creating ripple effects that transcend borders and generations,” adds Templeman. “With our Procurement for Purpose model, New Zealand businesses have a unique opportunity to strengthen their security while driving meaningful change.”
Sovtech’s launch in New Zealand is more than just business – it’s about community, sustainability, and making a difference where it counts.
Media Contact: Neil Templeman
Founder & Director, Sovtech
Neil_templeman@sovtechnz.com
T: 00 61 419 172 445
www.sovtechnz.com
Neil Templeman will be available for interviews during his visit to New Zealand on 15-16 October. To schedule a meeting or interview, please contact him directly at the number above.
About Sovtech:
Sovtech is a cybersecurity provider offering comprehensive solutions to help businesses safeguard against modern threats. Their profit for purpose model reinvests profits into social causes, aligning technology with positive global change. https://sovtech.com.au/
About Cure Kids:
Cure Kids is New Zealand’s largest charitable funder of child health research committed to finding better treatments and preventative strategies for a wide range of serious child health conditions. Cure Kids has invested more than $65 million in New Zealand research since it formed over 50 years ago, which has helped to shape and vastly improve the way children who live with serious diseases and health conditions are diagnosed and treated. Cure Kids is currently funding around $8 million in child health research across 60+ projects. Red Nose Day is their biggest annual fundraising campaign and makes a significant contribution to this work. For more information visit: www.curekids.org.nz
Introducing NEW Selaks Origins Breeze 5%
Selaks, a pioneer in New Zealand’s wine industry, proudly unveils Selaks Origins Breeze 5%, a revolutionary addition to its portfolio.
Launching this August, Selaks Origins Breeze 5% makes its timely debut following Dry July, pioneering Selak’s first ever 5% alcohol offering in New Zealand. Each bottle promises an easy-drinking experience with just 3 standard drinks per 750ml bottle at 5% ABV.
Research consistently indicates a growing demand for lower-alcohol beverages. Consumers are increasingly mindful of their alcohol intake and are actively seeking options that allow them to enjoy wine in moderation. This shift reflects a broader cultural movement in New Zealand towards more responsible drinking habits.
The Origins Breeze range uses the Piquette method, a traditional technique originating from France. Piquette is made by rescuing already pressed winemaking grapes and giving them a second squeeze, resulting in a refreshing range that includes a crisp Piquette from Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, a summer berry-infused Piquette Rosé, and a vibrant Piquette from Pinot Gris.
“Utilizing the traditional Piquette method, we’ve crafted fruit wines that not only minimize waste but also maximize the vibrant fruit flavors that define our fruit wines.” said David Edmonds, Chief Winemaker at Selaks.
Crafted with innovation and waste reduction in mind, this range caters to wine enthusiasts and health-conscious consumers alike, seeking a flavourful, lighter option without compromising on taste.
“At Selaks, we’re excited to introduce the Origins Breeze 5% range, a testament to our commitment to quality and innovation,” added Edmonds.
“We’ve focused on creating a product that captures the bright, fresh characteristics of our fruit, appealing to a broad spectrum of consumers,”
Selaks Origins Breeze 5% is poised to redefine expectations of lower-alcohol fruit wines, offering a delicious choice for any occasion.
About Selaks: 90 Years of Winemaking
Founded with a rich heritage, Selaks is celebrated for crafting exceptional New Zealand wines that honor tradition while embracing innovation. Since Marino Selak arrived from Croatia in 1906, he and his nephew began creating wines that have become favorites across New Zealand, marking the start of Selaks’ legacy of excellence in winemaking.
From their humble beginnings in West Auckland to their current home in the Hawke’s Bay, they’ve built a legacy steeped in tradition and passion. Each bottle carries the essence of those who have shaped its creation, preserving the spirit of their winemaking family through the generations. Selaks’ commitment to quality and excellence has traveled far beyond borders, embraced by wine lovers across the globe.
For more information about Selaks Origins Breeze 5% visit www.selaks.co.nz
Robertshaw Strengthens Presence in New Zealand Through Partnership with System Control Engineering
Itasca, Illinois – June 3, 2024 – Robertshaw, a global leader in control components for the appliance industry, announced a significant milestone today – expanding their reach into the New Zealand market through a partnership with System Control Engineering, a leading provider of industrial automation and control solutions.
Paul Rimes, Executive General Manager of System Control Engineering, says this milestone is significant because it allows them to offer a wider range of best-in-class solutions to their customers, including popular Robertshaw products like the 7000 Series Gas Valve, M Series infinite switches for electric cooking equipment, and ST Thermostats for water heaters.
“We are thrilled to partner with Robertshaw to bring their industry-respected products to New Zealand,” says Rimes. “Our customers can now access a comprehensive selection of control components from one trusted supplier, streamlining their procurement process and ensuring they receive the best possible solutions for their needs.”
This partnership also benefits Robertshaw by expanding their reach into the New Zealand market through a well-established and respected distributor.
“System Control Engineering’s strong reputation and technical expertise make them the ideal partner for Robertshaw in New Zealand,” says Marc Speigel, VP of Sales at Robertshaw. “We are confident that this partnership will allow us to better serve our customers in the region and provide them with the exceptional support they deserve.”
The availability of Robertshaw products in New Zealand through System Control Engineering is effective June 1, 2024.
About Robertshaw
Robertshaw is a global leader in the design, engineering, and manufacturing of control components for the appliance industry. Robertshaw delivers advanced flow control components and systems for water, gas, and other fluids to help build extraordinary products that improve safety, comfort, health, and happiness. Browse Robertshaw’s complete line of products on System Control Engineering’s website: www.systemcontrol.co.nz/robertshaw
Contact: sales@systemcontrol.co.nz
Alimetry Secures CPT III Reimbursement Code for the Gastric Alimetry Test and Announces Positive Clinical Study Results
Alimetry, a gastrointestinal medtech and digital health start-up, announced today the creation of a new American Medical Association (AMA) Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) III code for Body Surface Gastric Mapping, which will describe its Gastric Alimetry test.
The new CPT III code highlights the growing recognition of Body Surface Gastric mapping and Gastric Alimetry as a significant advance in the diagnosis and management of chronic gastric conditions, including functional dyspepsia, gastroparesis, and chronic nausea and vomiting syndrome. Together, these disorders affect >10% of the US population.
CEO, Greg O’Grady, a Professor of Surgery and co-founder of Alimetry, said: “Obtaining a CPT III code is a key milestone for Alimetry. Gastric Alimetry is emerging as a next-generation test for patients suffering chronic gastric symptoms, with excellent early adoption in over 30 hospitals and clinics. The new AMA code will accelerate our mission to achieve widespread access for US patients suffering from these disabling disorders.”
The CPT III code comes on the back of Alimetry’s 3rd 510k clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in just 2 years for the Gastric Alimetry System. The latest FDA clearance introduced new features to aid in the diagnosis of gut hypersensitivity and common ‘Gut-Brain-Axis’ disorders, which are often linked to mental wellbeing. Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Andrews stated: “Gastric symptoms can be complex, and are often a diagnostic challenge. Gastric Aimetry combines a wearable sensor with an App- based digital health profiling tool, providing an increasingly powerful feature set that can greatly simplify the diagnostic process. The cloud-based platform also enables us to rapidly learn and improve test performance based on banked data, with an increasing focus on applications in AI.”
In addition to the new CPT Code, Alimetry also announced positive clinical study results, published this month in the American Journal of Gastroenterology. In the study discussion, the authors concluded that “Gastric Alimetry identified 2.7x more specific patient categories than gastric emptying testing [a standard of care test], with limited overlap between each diagnostic modality, offering a valuable new option in the diagnostic work up of patients with chronic gastroduodenal symptoms”. In addition, Gastric Alimetry data was reported to show “improved correlation with symptoms and psychometrics” compared to existing clinical and research tools.
Gastric Alimetry is commercially available in the United States, the UK and New Zealand. The study article can be accessed in this hyperlink
About Gastric Alimetry
The Gastric Alimetry test measures gastric electrophysiology non-invasively in a clinical setting. Recordings are taken before and after a standard meal, while patients simultaneously log their symptoms into the Gastric Alimetry App. The system performs a high-resolution recording of digestive patterns from the skin surface and delivers clinical reports via the cloud to inform the diagnosis of gastric diseases and support personalized therapy. The Gastric Alimetry system is indicated as an aid to diagnosis of various gastric disorders, including functional dyspepsia, gastroparesis and chronic nausea and vomiting disorders, which affect >10% of the US population and impact billions of dollars in healthcare expenses.
About AMA CPT III Codes
AMA CPT III codes are temporary codes assigned to emerging medical technologies and procedures. These codes facilitate data collection and assessment, aiding in the validation and reimbursement of new services. Obtaining a CPT III code, such as for Alimetry’s Gastric Alimetry test, is a vital step towards recognizing its clinical relevance and supporting its integration into healthcare practices. The new CPT III code number is 0868T and it is effective from July 1, 2024.
About Alimetry
Alimetry is a medtech and digital health start-up focused on improving the care of patients with chronic gastrointestinal symptoms. Spun out of the University of Auckland in 2019 from a centre of excellence in digestive diseases, the company was founded by Professor Gregory O’Grady (CEO) and Dr. Armen Gharibans (CTO), leveraging a decade of award-winning science. Alimetry is dedicated to advancing gastrointestinal health through innovative diagnostic solutions, aiming to enhance the quality of life for patients worldwide. For more information see www.alimetry.com
Contact
Hanie Yee, Chief Commercial Officer, Alimetry Hanie@alimetry.com
NZ +64 (0)21 651226 US +1 (657) 267 1082
New Chorus Node expands Wellington Data Centre solutions at Xtreme Networks.
Xtreme Networks, a leading local provider of data centre and networking solutions, announced today that it is further expanding its capabilities with the launch of the new Chorus Data Centre Connect node for Wellington, Available to order from May 1, 2023.
The new node, located in its colocation data centre at 191 Thorndon Quay, will provide an accessible Point of Presence for Internet Service Providers and enhanced connectivity options for businesses requiring high-quality data services, throughout the region and beyond.
Chorus Data Centre Connect is a high-performance, low-latency service that allows ISPs to easily establish a local Point of Presence and enables businesses to easily connect to other data centres using Chorus’ fibre infrastructure.
With the new node at Xtreme Networks, businesses will have access to Chorus Handover services and Chorus L2 Products. Service Providers and business customers can purchase either 10G or 100G connections to take the traffic back to their designated Chorus exchange and onto their nominated footprints.
“We’re excited to have worked with Chorus to bring this new data centre connect node to Wellington,” said Dion Hallam, Managing Director of Xtreme Networks.
“This investment provides yet another building block for us, in ensuring the region has ample access to high-performance networks directly into Chorus’s core infrastructure. We believe it will be hugely beneficial for ISPs to build a new point of presence in the Wellington region and will further simplify local data hosting for Managed Service Providers and their clients,” Dion Hallam said.
Having also launched their new channel partner program for MSP’s, 2023 will be a year of continued growth & investment in providing robust local data storage and connectivity to New Zealand businesses.
“It’s been a pleasure working with the Xtreme Networks team to launch our new DCI node into the Wellington Data Centre” said Mark West, Network Product Manager at Chorus.
“This investment will give businesses in the region the unique opportunity to connect to the Chorus Handovers and backhaul services across New Zealand with options for both 10G and 100G transport service. We are really excited about this venture and look forward to what’s next,” Mark West said.
Xtreme Networks is a locally owned and operated data centre with a reputation for providing highly responsive service and world class connectivity and hosting facilities for more than 23 years.
The new Chorus Data Centre Connect node at Xtreme Networks in Wellington is set to go live on May 1, 2023. For more information about accessing the service, contact the Xtreme Networks team directly.
For more, see: https://www.xtreme.nz
New Zealand’s Top 50 Construction Firms Revealed
Auckland, New Zealand – 17 APRIL 2023 – BCI Central is pleased to announce the publication of the inaugural New Zealand edition of the BCI Construction League.
The free report ranks the country’s top 50 builders by the total value of projects that commenced construction in 2022 within the commercial, community, industrial, legal and military, and multi-residential (3+ houses/units) sectors.
- New Zealand’s top 50 builders commenced construction on 488 projects in 2022, with the top 10 builders accounting for 167 of these projects.
- The top 50 builders’ total value of projects came in at $8.9 billion, with an average project value of $37.3 million.
- The top 10 firms commenced construction on just under $5.8-billion worth of projects in 2022, with an average project value of approximately $124.5 million.
- Only $2,000 separated the top two construction firms. Mansons TCLM’s three commercial projects secured them the top spot in the League.
“While 2022 saw restrictions lifted in most parts of NZ, the ripples of the pandemic continued to impact the construction industry. Shortages and severe cost increases in skilled labour and supplies caused project delays, cancellations and the collapse of numerous companies in the sector.
“Despite the mounting challenges, numerous new companies got their start and thousands of projects commenced construction across the country. NZ’s builders are persisting and adapting to meet the unwavering commercial and residential market demands”, Chief Data Officer, Michelle Aizenberg, said.
The Construction League report, researched from a variety of sources including BCI Central’s construction project database and direct submissions from construction companies, provides valuable insights into the state of the New Zealand building industry, the projects and businesses shaping our built environment.
The full report is available for download on the BCI Central website (https://www.bcicentral.com/download-the-bci-construction-league/).
###
About BCI Central
Established in 1998, BCI Central was founded to create efficiencies and enhance transparency in the intrinsically complex construction industry. BCI’s software solutions and related services achieve this while simultaneously enabling its clients to identify sales opportunities, make informed decisions and connect with key target markets. Today, BCI Central plays a crucial role in empowering businesses around the world with construction-centric tools to succeed.