But like…also increased COVID-19 travel requirements.

Happening in the World: Residents of Melbourne, Australia celebrate lifted lockdown restrictions. Melbourne has kept its residents locked down for more than 260 days, which makes it the longest lockdown due to COVID-19 concerns. Melbourne residents also no longer have to abide by a legal curfew, and since their vaccination rate for residents aged 16 and older is more than 70 percent, they likely won’t have to lockdown ever again (NYT). 

Happening in the US: Vaccine and COVID-19 testing requirements for traveling into the United States from foreign countries were updated by the Biden Administration. The new guidelines not only include stricter vaccine requirements for US citizens, but all unvaccinated and foreign individuals will have to present a negative COVID-19 test dated one day prior to their travel date. Even if citizens are vaccinated, they are not omitted from the testing requirement and must present a negative test no longer than three days prior to their travel date (NBC). 

Happening in NYC: A record number of contestants enter the 31st Annual Tompkins Square Halloween Parade. The parade, which occurred on Saturday at the East River Park Amphitheater, is a Halloween celebration featuring costumed dogs and their owners. The “Best in Show” award was given to and his dog, who dressed up as “Essential Workers” (Gothamist).  ​​

Happening in Our Community: Come donate blood in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month! CU blood drives are open to CUID holders, as well as faculty and staff and are only available by appointment. Those who donate get a free gift card incentive. If you’re interested, find more information about registration here. 

Liberty Pup via Flickr