Hello from Melbourne!

While some members of our team endure the cold winds and snow that have been swirling around our New York office, we are enjoying the January summertime in Australia. Between the summer heat  and the excitement of the 2025 Australian Open, Melbourne is, as always, our happy place! In particular, we have been appreciating the views of hot air balloon tours floating over the city at dawn, dotting the skyline with bursts of color. Oh and did we mention the coffee?  After too many “magics” we are buzzing over here…

USCIS Cancels COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement

United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) announced that effective January 22, 2025,  the requirement for applicants seeking adjustment of status to lawful permanent resident status to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination on their Form I-693 Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record has been removed. USCIS also states that the Service will not issue Requests for Evidence (“RFEs”) or Notices of Intent to Deny (“NOIDs”) asking for proof of COVID-19 vaccination.  Furthermore, I-485 Applications to Register Permanent Residency or Adjust Status will not be denied solely on the basis of the applicant’s failure to provide COVID-19 vaccination documentation.  

“moonGARDEN” by Lucion

After touring the world with stops in Athens, Brussels, Jerusalem, Moscow, Washington, Mexico City, Medellín, Houston, and Beijing, moonGARDEN has made its way to New York City. The art installation features glowing, color-changing spheres which were created by Lucion, a multimedia production firm based in Quebec.  Currently planted at the Seaport District, the spheres are inspired by set theory, a branch of mathematics that Lucion says “illustrates the notions of sets and belonging.” Each city gets a new perspective, and New York’s installation is titled “Chronicles of the Abyss Walkers,” featuring an underwater themed marine exploration. A peek inside the porthole of one sphere reveals a new world, with giant jellyfish, robotic fish, and an intricate coral reef. The installation is sure to delight visitors of all ages, and art lovers can catch the exhibit through February 2025, before the garden travels to its next destination.

G’day from Sydney

As frigid winds whirl in snowy New York and London remains overcast, we’ve made an escape with the snowbirds to Sydney. Between the summer weather, beautiful landmarks (anyone coming along on the Bridge Climb with us?), and the happy beachgoers, the city is alive with energy to kick off the new year. This view of the Opera House out on the Harbour is one that will never lose its magic, always radiating a welcoming warmth.