Category: NEWS

Adams quietly issues executive order appointing two agents

On September 26, New York City Mayor Eric Adams took a significant step by issuing an executive order that outlines a succession plan in the event that both he and First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright are unable to perform their duties. This decision comes as Adams faces five federal charges related to corruption, raising questions about the stability of his administration.

In the order, it is stated that should both Adams and Wright become incapacitated, Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom would step in as acting mayor. Williams-Isom, who has been actively managing the city’s ongoing immigration crisis, shared her thoughts on the plan in an interview, describing it as merely “pro forma.”

The previous protocol had specified that if Adams could not fulfill his responsibilities, the First Deputy Mayor would take over. However, the new executive order expands this framework to cover instances where both the mayor and First Deputy Mayor are unable to carry out their roles. In those cases, all city operations and the rights and responsibilities traditionally held by the mayor would shift to the Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services.

It’s important to note that this executive order is intended for situations where the mayor is temporarily incapacitated, distinct from scenarios where he may be permanently removed from office or resigns—situations in which Public Advocate Jumaane Williams would assume the role.

City & State was the first outlet to report on Adams’ executive order. With increasing calls for his resignation amidst numerous investigations and federal indictments, Adams is making concerted efforts to hold onto his position. Notably, before the indictment, a number of high-ranking city officials had already stepped down.

Gothamist highlighted that Adams’ decision to issue this order is a response to the mounting external pressures on his administration, aiming to establish a clear and transparent succession plan amid the dual challenges of legal troubles and political scrutiny.

As for Governor Kathy Hochul, while she holds the power to remove or suspend Adams, she has yet to call for his resignation. On the same day that the executive order was issued, she released a statement urging Adams to carefully assess the situation in the coming days and to find a viable way forward to ensure that New York City residents receive the support they need from their government.

Comment- Both sides of the Taiwan Strait spend the Mid-Autumn Festival together to highlight the meaning of -reunion-

On September 17, Rong Haisheng, a reporter from China News Service, delved into the significance of the Mid-Autumn Festival for individuals across the Taiwan Strait. “With a cloudless sky over the vast land, the Mid-Autumn Festival is the most complete night,” he remarked, highlighting how many from Taiwan participated in festive gatherings across mainland China. The theme of “reunion” emerged prominently, reflecting a shared longing for closer connections and familial ties among people from both sides.

On the evening of the 12th, Song Tao, director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, celebrated the festival with Taiwanese compatriots in Fuzhou, Fujian. In his address, he underscored that celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival with family is a cherished tradition among the Chinese, symbolizing love for their homeland and the yearning for family gatherings. He expressed that this sentiment is woven deeply into the cultural DNA of every Chinese person and serves as a motivating force for individuals on both sides of the Taiwan Strait to unite and progress together.

Song’s repeated emphasis on the concept of “reunion” underscored its traditional importance during the Mid-Autumn Festival. In Chinese culture, reunion signifies family harmony and embodies happiness. Whether participating in traditional activities like moon watching, pomelo peeling, and sharing mooncakes, or embracing new customs like barbecuing that have emerged in Taiwan over recent decades, the essence of reunion remains constant in the hearts of people on both sides, despite the evolving traditions.

The drive to foster a sense of reunion has been a continuous effort from the mainland. A year ago, the “Opinions of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the State Council on Supporting Fujian to Explore New Paths for Cross-Strait Integration and Development” was published. Over the past year, there has been an active promotion of the idea of “one family on both sides of the strait,” with actions aimed at advancing integration through exchanges, benefits, and emotional connections. A range of policies designed to benefit Taiwanese residents have made reunions more feasible.

To facilitate travel for Taiwanese people, the “Little Three Links” ferry services have seen a significant increase, rising from 26 weekly trips at the beginning of their reopening to a peak of 182 trips. The Xiamen Exit and Entry Border Inspection Station had predicted that during the recent Mid-Autumn holiday (September 15-17), passenger flow for the “Little Three Links” would exceed 14,000, reflecting a 28% increase in daily traffic compared to the Dragon Boat Festival.

Moreover, the “Fujian Province Archives Protection Regulations on Taiwan Relations” will take effect on October 1, supporting genealogical heritage activities. This regulation enables Taiwanese residents to trace their roots and partake in family reunions using Fujian and Taiwan-related archives.

For many in Taiwan, the Mid-Autumn Festival stands as a significant traditional holiday, second only to the Spring Festival, encapsulating the sentiment: “the moon is full in the sky, and families reunite on earth.” The festive spirit has been lively, with events like the 9th “Business Circle Carnival — Taipei Autumn Festival” and the Chiayi 2024 “Light and Shadow Art Exhibition” embracing Mid-Autumn themes. Additionally, the traditional “Tower Placement” festival, which originates from Fuzhou, has been celebrated in Keelung for several consecutive years, highlighting the importance Taiwanese people place on this festival and affirming the shared cultural heritage between both sides.

The moon of Mid-Autumn symbolizes the hope of reunion. With a shared heritage of blood, history, and culture, individuals across the Taiwan Strait share a collective responsibility for their nation. It is crucial to strengthen cultural confidence, resist any attempts at “de-Sinicization” within Taiwan, and protect, pass on, and promote Chinese culture. There is a strong belief that as people from both sides collaborate, the ultimate great reunion of the Chinese nation will be realized.

During the National Day holiday, more than 100,000 passengers entered and exited the Ruili Port on the China-Myanmar border.

On October 8, the Ruili Entry-Exit Border Inspection Station reported that during the recent National Day holiday, more than 103,000 travelers crossed the border between China and Myanmar, with over 15,000 vehicles participating in the entry and exit processes.

The Ruili border, situated in Ruili City within the Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan Province, stands as the largest land port along the China-Myanmar border. It plays a pivotal role in facilitating bilateral trade and serves as a crucial hub for the movement of people, goods, and information in southwest China.

“I was really impressed by how efficiently the border crossing was handled during the busy holiday period,” said Li Xing, a Chinese traveler who reunited with his family on October 7. “Even with so many people, it took me less than 10 minutes to return from Myanmar to China, which allowed me to spend more quality time with my loved ones.”

According to statistics from the Ruili border inspection, from October 1 to October 7, there were approximately 113,000 travelers and 15,000 vehicles crossing in Ruili City and Longchuan County. The majority of these travelers were Chinese citizens returning home for the holidays, along with tourists from Myanmar entering China for sightseeing.

To ensure a smooth process during the festive period, the Ruili border inspection station closely monitored passenger flow and implemented strategies like timely updates on border traffic and categorized processing for travelers. They also encouraged those crossing the border to plan their trips thoughtfully, stay aware of potential risks, and prioritize their personal and property safety.

-Hezhi Youde- Chaobai Wetland Half Marathon was held in Tianjin

On October 1st, the second “Hezhi Youde” Chaobai Wetland Half Marathon kicked off at the Baodi Sports Center in Tianjin, drawing nearly 5,000 running enthusiasts from across the globe to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China.

The event, organized by the Tianjin Sports Bureau and the Baodi District Government, was a collaborative effort involving various departments, with Tianjin Yuesen Sports Culture Development Co., Ltd and the Baodi Running Association taking charge of the operational aspects. Before the race commenced, participants united to sing “I Love You, China,” paying heartfelt homage to their nation. The weekend features both a half marathon and a health run, attracting competitors from three countries and 27 provinces, municipalities, and autonomous regions throughout China. Runners enjoyed picturesque views as they traversed Chaoyang Avenue and the Chaobai River Bridge, ultimately entering the Chaobai River National Wetland Park, renowned for its “One River, Two Banks, Three Areas, and Twenty-Eight Sceneries.”

To guarantee a smooth and safe event, the organizers assembled an extensive support team, including 40 medical personnel, 20 emergency runners, 240 police and security officers, and over 900 dedicated volunteers. Multiple medical stations and ambulances were strategically located along the course, with eight fixed medical points and eight ambulances equipped with 21 AED devices, all designed to prioritize participant safety.

Moreover, the marathon also showcased local specialty food and product booths, along with vibrant performances such as Jingdong Drum and Pingju Opera, creating a lively and festive atmosphere for both runners and onlookers alike.

Accommodation fees are a minefield in universities. Students complain that they can’t afford it. House prices and rents are soaring.

There’s been a lot of discussion around increasing college tuition, but some people argue that housing costs are an even bigger concern. For example, at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, students can pay up to $1,250 per month for a shared three-person dorm room with a communal bathroom, which leaves many feeling overwhelmed.

Heidi Veideman, who started her freshman year at the University of California, Davis in the fall of 2022, received financial aid to help with tuition, but it didn’t cover her housing costs. This led her and her two roommates to rent a three-person dorm room, with each contributing $1,250 a month, totaling more than $10,000 for the academic year.

Veideman shared her frustrations, saying, “Aside from a single bed and a bunk bed, the space is really small, and there’s no private bathroom. I feel like I’m being ripped off.”

At just 20 years old, Veideman found herself taking out loans to manage her living expenses. As her debt grew, she ultimately had to leave Davis and two years later enrolled at UC Irvine, moving in with her fiancé’s parents. “I know everyone talks about high tuition, but housing is really the bigger issue,” she noted.

Federal statistics indicate that the average cost of dormitory housing at four-year universities skyrocketed from $5,433 in the 2012-13 academic year to $7,456 in the 2022-23 year, marking a staggering 37% increase over the past decade. In comparison, tuition and fees have only risen from $14,099 to $17,709, a 26% increase.

Robert Kelchen, an education professor at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, observes, “Everyone focuses on ‘how much is tuition,’ but if you’re attending a public university, housing costs often mean more than tuition itself.”

Taking UC Berkeley as an example, a three-person dorm can cost as much as $4,750 per month, totaling $12,675 per student for the year. However, university officials clarify that these rental fees aren’t intended for profit.

Olan Bryant Garrett, vice president at Temple University in Philadelphia, explained that dorm costs encompass various expenses, including utilities, staff salaries, and maintenance. He highlighted, “You have resident advisors and university administrators; living in a dorm provides you with additional support and resources.”

Jason Cohn, a researcher at the Urban Institute’s Center on Education Data and Policy, noted, “In the current environment, a significant portion of college expenses is allocated to housing. If you want to cut costs, prioritize living expenses when considering colleges.”

Garrett advised students to carefully evaluate their living options: “Everyone dreams of living in the Taj Mahal, but it’s crucial to determine if it’s within your budget.”

Celebrating Medical Titans- ICOMAA Honours Akinkugbe, Ogunlesi, Falase, Akang, Babalakin

In a heartfelt tribute to service and legacy, the Ibadan College of Medicine Alumni Association (ICOMAA) Worldwide, alongside the West African College of Physicians (WACP), recently honored five iconic figures in medicine during an endowment ceremony on September 12, 2024. The event was held at the Paul Hendrickse Lecture Theatre in UCH Ibadan.

This celebration paid homage to the remarkable achievements of Emeritus Professor Oladipo Olujimi Akinkugbe, Emeritus Professor Theophilus Oladipo Ogunlesi, Professor Ayodele Falase, Professor Essien Udo Akang, and Dr. Olajide Taofik Babalakin, each of whom has made significant contributions to enhancing Nigeria’s healthcare system.

Four of the honorees received posthumous recognition for their groundbreaking contributions to medicine, education, and leadership, ensuring that their legacies continue to inspire future generations of healthcare professionals.

Emeritus Professor Oladipo Olujimi Akinkugbe, widely regarded as Africa’s first professor of medicine, has left an indelible mark in the field of nephrology. His commitment to clinical excellence and academic mentorship has shaped the lives of countless healthcare practitioners, with his influence as a mentor and physician echoing through the years.

Emeritus Professor Theophilus Oladipo Ogunlesi was celebrated for his pioneering role in medical education as the first individual to serve as Vice-Chancellor at two federal universities in Nigeria. His visionary leadership set new standards for medical training and institutional governance throughout the country.

Also honored was Professor Ayodele Falase, who attended the ceremony. As the inaugural Provost of the College of Medicine at the University of Ibadan and later Vice-Chancellor, Falase was instrumental in integrating medical practice with academic administration, significantly advancing healthcare institutions in Nigeria.

Distinguished pathologist and former Provost of the College of Medicine, Professor Essien Udo Akang was recognized for his exceptional contributions to pathology. His enthusiasm for teaching and deep knowledge left a lasting impression on both his students and colleagues. During the ceremony, a tribute from the Class of 1983 to his widow highlighted the respect and admiration he garnered within the medical community.

Dr. Olajide Taofik Babalakin, a nephrologist from the Class of 1988, was honored for his outstanding career in internal medicine, which included achieving a Fellowship in Nephrology at the University of Lexington in the USA. His legacy will be sustained through an award established in his name for the “Best Dissertation in Nephrology” at the West African College of Physicians, with his brothers, Dr. Wale Babalakin and Arc. Omotayo Babalakin, representing him at the event.

The ceremony brought together a distinguished assembly of academics, public figures, and medical professionals to celebrate the honorees. Keynote speaker Professor Temidayo O. Ogundiran, Provost of the College of Medicine at the University of Ibadan, emphasized the importance of each honoree’s contributions. He described how their words, actions, and professional legacies will serve as lasting testaments to their dedication to improving healthcare in Nigeria and beyond.

Among the notable attendees was Professor K. O. Adebowale, Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, represented by the Provost, CoMUI, as well as Professor J. Otegbayo, Chief Medical Director of the University College Hospital in Ibadan, both of whom underscored the significant impact of the honorees’ contributions.

The event was a poignant reminder of the profound influence these medical giants have had on Nigeria’s healthcare system and the international medical community.

In closing, Professor Oyedunni Arulogun, Vice President of ICOMAA Worldwide, expressed heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the success of the ceremony. She underscored that the legacies of these five medical legends would continue to inspire generations of healthcare professionals for years to come.

Bay Area’s hottest week in 1985- Temperatures in many cities break century records

Last week, San Francisco experienced an unprecedented heatwave, marking its hottest week in 85 years. Multiple cities across the Bay Area shattered century-old temperature records. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, between September 30 and October 6, the city’s average daily high temperature skyrocketed to 90.3 degrees Fahrenheit, nearly 20 degrees above the usual. This unusual spike made it the hottest week since 1939 and the third hottest since September 1874, with the all-time highest average temperature in San Francisco being 93 degrees back in September 1939.

Interestingly, data from the Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) weather station—located just three blocks from Ocean Beach—showed that coastal areas remained relatively cool, averaging only 78 degrees for daily highs. However, the daily low was a warm 69 degrees, setting a record for the hottest October nights on record.

Cities throughout the Bay Area recorded their highest temperatures in nearly a century. San Jose reached an average daily high of 100.1 degrees, marking the hottest week since July 1905, with a daunting peak of 106 degrees on October 2—the hottest day the city has seen since 1980 and 2012. San Rafael smashed its previous week’s average daily high with a scorching 102.7 degrees, surpassing records set in 1894, and topped out at 107 degrees on the 6th.

Additionally, Santa Rosa, Kentfield, and Napa all recorded 102 degrees on October 6, marking their hottest daily temperatures since 1930.

Meteorologist Nicole Sarment attributed last week’s extreme heat to an unusually warm air mass and the absence of the cool afternoon sea breezes that typically offer relief to coastal cities. With human-induced climate change playing a significant role in global warming, data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reveals that autumn temperatures in California have risen by approximately 3.1 degrees since 1896, resulting in more intense, frequent, and prolonged heatwaves.

Looking forward, weather forecasts indicate that by October 8, temperatures across the Bay Area are expected to drop below 100 degrees, although average temperatures for the week will still remain above normal.

-Go to the windy wilderness- with Alai, freedom and answers are in the wind

In a recent interview, acclaimed author and Mao Dun Literature Prize winner A Lai offered an in-depth look at his upcoming essay collection, “Into the Windy Wilderness,” set to be released in 2024 by People’s Literature Publishing House. This new work reflects A Lai’s unwavering dedication to exploring remote landscapes through ten poignant narratives.

A Lai’s essays in “Into the Windy Wilderness” detail his personal journeys and showcase his enthusiasm for nature, complemented by his extensive knowledge of botany. Each essay focuses on various plants, from thorn beans and windflower daisies to aromatic greens and flycatcher grass. Having journeyed to altitudes exceeding 4,000 meters, A Lai has developed an intimate knowledge of even the rarest flowers he encounters. His experiences are captured in thousands of plant photographs stored on his devices, earning him the affectionate nickname among his readers as “the botanist among writers.”

When reflecting on his passion for nature, A Lai attributes it to his extensive fieldwork across regions such as Sichuan, Tibet, Qinghai, Gansu, and Yunnan. He has seen firsthand the effects of human activity on natural ecosystems and hopes that Chinese ecological literature can play a key role in reshaping societal perceptions of the environment, contributing to a more profound ecological civilization.

A Lai emphasizes that the heart of his journeys lies not merely in traversing physical landscapes but in the reflections and insights they inspire. His writing conveys a philosophy of life that champions openness and introspection. “I walk alone, and the more I travel, the more invigorated I feel,” he shares. “I cover dozens of miles each day with just a little pocket money, and wherever I go, I find warmth in a villager’s home. Each trek is exhilarating, almost like life’s questions are gradually being answered. Climbing from the valleys to the heights, surrounded by mountains and rivers, is genuinely fulfilling.”

During a visit to the Meizhong Mountain National Nature Reserve in the peak of autumn, A Lai described his delight in seeing blooming rhododendrons, even amidst the absence of vibrant red leaves. He remarked, “There’s no need to be disappointed or complain about not seeing the expected autumn colors. With the stunning display of rhododendron flowers in full bloom, why should we limit our appreciation to a narrow definition of fall?”

Through A Lai’s vivid storytelling, readers come to understand that true wilderness is not solely about physical escape; it’s a state of mind. As long as one carries the wilderness within their heart, the beauty of nature is always within reach, regardless of location.

As the new round of Palestinian-Israeli conflict turns one year old, the Israeli military releases an operational report

On October 8th, China News reported on the anniversary of the recent outbreak of conflict between Israel and Palestine. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued a report detailing significant operational losses in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon.

According to the report, since the onset of hostilities on October 7, 2023, a total of 728 Israeli soldiers, reservists, and security personnel have lost their lives, while 4,576 others have sustained injuries. Notably, ground operations in Gaza have contributed to 347 fatalities and nearly 2,300 injuries.

The IDF’s report also highlighted a staggering figure: over 26,000 rockets, missiles, and drones have targeted Israel from various locations. This includes around 13,200 projectiles from Gaza, 12,400 from Lebanon, 60 from Syria, 180 from Yemen, and 400 from Iran.

Furthermore, the IDF indicated that they have engaged over 40,000 positions in Gaza. In Lebanon, the report noted that nearly 11,000 military targets affiliated with Hezbollah have been struck since the conflict escalated.

This latest round of violence began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched an assault on Israel. Recent statistics from the Palestinian health authorities in Gaza suggest that Israeli military operations have led to nearly 42,000 Palestinian deaths and over 90,000 injuries since the conflict intensified.

Crying while watching fan videos, Tai Tzu Ying’s preview- I don’t want to have a retirement ceremony

Taiwanese badminton star Tai Tzu-ying attended a fan meeting organized by Chunghwa Telecom on September 29, where she couldn’t hold back her emotions upon watching a heartfelt video featuring messages from her fans. Overcome with gratitude, she expressed her appreciation for their unwavering support as she navigates her global badminton journey. While she has already announced her retirement at the end of this season, she reassured her fans that she has no plans for a farewell event and intends to stay connected to the badminton court.

Having announced her retirement for this season, Tai has recently faced challenges due to knee injuries, which prevented her from competing at her best. She candidly shared, “My mindset has changed quite a bit. I feel like I’ve lost some of the things I wanted most, and I’m not as fixated on strict expectations because my body isn’t able to handle everything I want to do.”

With the upcoming European tournaments in October still uncertain for her participation, Tai admitted she can’t clearly identify what her “final dance” will be. With a smile, she added that, given her personality, she prefers not to announce any “final matches,” let alone a retirement event.

“I don’t want to have one; it would make me too sad,” Tai said, laughing. She mentioned that even watching the fan video brought her to tears, so a retirement event would be too much to handle. She also expressed her desire to continue playing and sharing her experiences with young athletes. “I don’t plan on saying goodbye to the court. I don’t want it to be too sad.”

Tai also shared her vision for the future, expressing her wish to stay connected with her fans in different ways after retirement, particularly in grassroots initiatives. She has received numerous invitations from schools and teams to share insights about her pre-game preparations, technical skills, and post-match reflections. Additionally, she is open to collaborating with sports brands for events and helping out in gyms, which reassures her that she won’t be completely stepping away from the badminton scene.

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