Monthly Archive 19/10/2024

As the November elections draw closer, candidates in various districts are ramping up their campaign efforts. In Brooklyn’s 17th Senate District, the focus is on the re-election campaign of Democratic State Senator Julia Mark, who currently leads the fundraising race with an impressive $330,000. This amount far exceeds the $16,856 raised by her Republican opponent, Joe Chen.

Data from Ballotpedia reveals that as of July 25, Mark has raised a total of $726,911 for her campaign. So far, she has spent $339,547, leaving her with a solid war chest of $387,364. In comparison, Chen has gathered only $40,646, with expenditures amounting to $23,790, leaving him with just over $10,000.

A closer look at the details shows that Mark’s biggest contributor is the state Comptroller’s office, which donated $172,815. Additionally, she transferred $142,103 from her previous campaign. Mark has positioned herself as a champion for the working class, receiving endorsements and support from various unions, including a $6,000 contribution from the Communications Workers of America (CWA) and $5,000 each from the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) and the Chinese American Physicians Association (Caipa).

Conversely, Chen’s largest single donation comes from FM Alliance Group, which contributed $5,000. The bulk of his fundraising has been from individual donations within the Chinese community, ranging from $20 to $1,500.

Looking beyond this race, the 26th Senate District is also generating attention, where incumbent Andrew Gournades is facing off against Republican Vito LaBella for the second time. On the fundraising front, Gournades has a significant advantage with $176,686 compared to LaBella’s $4,147, although LaBella has garnered notable support from the Chinese community.

Experts point to a potential “red wave” trend in some Chinese districts in South Brooklyn. While Democratic candidates have considerable financial backing, the influence and support of the Republican party should not be overlooked, especially in the 17th District, where the Chinese voter demographic could play a pivotal role. As the election date approaches, both candidates are working diligently to secure more support from the Chinese community.

On September 16, I had the opportunity to speak with Wang Tianhong, an associate professor at Jilin University’s School of Liberal Arts, about the profound cultural and literary significance of the moon in both Eastern and Western traditions. The moon, as a timeless symbol, reflects humanity’s contemplations on life, time, and emotions, casting distinct shadows across different cultures.

**Reporter:** What are the primary feelings associated with the moon in Eastern and Western cultures?

**Wang Tianhong:** In traditional Chinese culture, the moon serves as a rich and multifaceted symbol. It is often depicted as an independent aesthetic figure representing wholeness and yearning. Even when separated from loved ones, there’s a sentiment that conveys the idea of “sharing the beauty of the moon from a thousand miles away.”

In the Arab world, the full moon is frequently associated with beauty, echoing a deep admiration for physical allure. Conversely, the ancient Romans referred to the moon as Luna, named after a goddess known for her capriciousness. There was a belief that the moon could incite madness, giving rise to legends like the werewolf, where men would transform under its full light. Western literature often resonates with themes of mystery, tragedy, and insanity, as seen in J.K. Rowling’s depiction of Professor Lupin.

**Reporter:** How do you see the representations of the moon differing distinctly between East and West?

**Wang Tianhong:** The contrasts are particularly evident in poetry, art, and mythology. The esteemed aesthetician Zhu Guangqian observed that Western poets are typically drawn to the ocean and storms, while Chinese poets often prefer serene landscapes with gentle breezes and moonlit nights. While this is a broad generalization—both traditions encompass elements of softness and rigidity—these traits are not necessarily their defining features.

Chinese poets have extensively celebrated the moon, crafting beloved verses that articulate historical nostalgia and personal longing. Many poignant lines capture the warmth and tenderness associated with the moon during wartime or while reflecting on the beauty of home.

In contrast, Western poets frequently tie the moon to themes of romance tinged by melancholy. Wordsworth, for instance, describes the moon sinking behind a cottage, symbolizing lost love. Shelley’s imagery evokes a fragile woman, while Keats presents the moon as cold and detached, lacking the warmth found in Eastern expressions.

In visual artworks, the moon’s representation diverges too. Classical Chinese painting illustrates the moon’s journey—from new to full to waning—set against tranquil and reflective scenes. Western art, on the other hand, may emphasize realism but can also venture into the fantastical, as seen in Van Gogh’s “Starry Night,” where emotions swirl chaotically within a celestial backdrop.

Both cultures feature rich arrays of moon deities. In China, we see a lineage from the moon goddess Chang’e to other figures representing nostalgia and solitude. Meanwhile, the ancient Greeks transitioned from Selene to Artemis, often depicting her as vengeful, linking the moon to irrational acts of retribution.

**Reporter:** What do you believe explains the stark differences in moon imagery between Eastern and Western cultures?

**Wang Tianhong:** The differences can largely be attributed to fundamental philosophical distinctions. Chinese philosophy tends to emphasize harmony between humanity and nature, investing the moon with a depth of emotional resonance. It signifies intricate meanings, delivering elegant metaphors that evoke gentle feelings and profound imagination. Western philosophy, however, often perceives humanity and nature as separate entities, leading to unique—and at times, strange—metaphors for the moon, as exemplified by Dickinson’s reference to a “golden chin” and Lawrence’s interpretations.

Moreover, these distinctions stem from contrasting cultural values. In China, there’s a communal emphasis on family and belonging, with the moon frequently reflecting a shared longing for loved ones. In contrast, Western perspectives lean towards individualism, rendering the moon a solitary emblem of personal affection. As a result, while the Chinese moon embodies beauty and tranquility, Western interpretations often blend with darkness and conflict.

**Reporter:** You previously mentioned that the moon represents a vast expanse of human imagination, a concept you’ve termed the “cultural moon.” In light of today’s scientific advancements regarding the moon, how do you see the relationship between the “scientific moon” and the “cultural moon”?

**Wang Tianhong:** The “cultural moon” and the “scientific moon” embody the dichotomy of pursuing beauty versus uncovering truth. Poets and artists engage with the moon through aesthetic reflection, while scientists examine it through observation and research, focusing on its physical features like mountains and valleys.

Historically, ancient Chinese interpretations linked lunar cycles with natural phenomena, bridging cultural significance with scientific insight. As China advances in space exploration—evident from the Chang’e program to recent lunar missions—some might question whether discovering a barren, lifeless moon diminishes its mystique. I would argue that it does not.

The moon has remained an enduring emblem woven into our consciousness over millennia. Deepening our understanding of it will likely only amplify our appreciation for nature’s wonders, unveiling new mysteries and ensuring the moon retains its captivating charm as we ascribe fresh meanings to it.

**About the Interviewee:**
Wang Tianhong is a Doctor of Literature and an associate professor at Jilin University’s School of Liberal Arts. She has researched at the University of London’s School of Oriental and African Studies and is actively involved in various international literary associations, focusing on comparative literature and cross-cultural poetics. Her published works include several monographs and numerous articles on modern Chinese poetry and its translations.

As Claudia Sheinbaum gets ready to take office as Mexico’s first female president on October 1, an important issue is emerging: how will Mexico navigate the complex dynamics of U.S.-China competition?

In the weeks leading up to Sheinbaum’s inauguration, a recent judicial reform proposal has ignited protests nationwide. Outgoing President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has signed legislation that introduces a system for electing judges, a move that has significant implications for both domestic justice and Mexico’s economic ties with the United States. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) underscores the necessity of a stable judicial system and investment climate, raising concerns that this reform may threaten judicial independence. This uncertainty might deter American businesses, potentially undermining their confidence in collaborating with Mexico.

The ramifications of this judicial overhaul are particularly relevant to Mexico-U.S. trade, reflecting the deep economic connections between the two countries. As the U.S.-China rivalry intensifies, American companies are increasingly exploring nearshoring options, looking to bring manufacturing back to North America and reduce their reliance on China.

In this scenario, Mexico stands to gain significant economic advantages. The country has historically attracted businesses with its lower labor costs and appealing tax incentives. The current strained U.S.-China trade relations have further enhanced Mexico’s attractiveness as an outsourcing destination for American firms.

Kenneth Rapoza, an industry analyst with the Coalition for a Prosperous America, points out that once Sheinbaum is in office, her administration will need to strengthen economic ties with the U.S. to keep pace with the trends in nearshoring and supply chain restructuring.

Addressing the potential impacts of judicial reform on investor confidence will pose a major challenge for Sheinbaum. She will need to implement domestic reforms while ensuring that the judicial system is perceived as independent. Additionally, fostering closer coordination with the U.S. government and maintaining open lines of communication with American business leaders will be crucial.

In recent years, China’s presence in Mexico has grown, with annual investments nearing $200 million. Major Chinese companies like BYD and Lingong Group have established manufacturing operations in northern Mexico, taking advantage of trade agreements to bypass tariffs and export goods to the U.S. market.

One of the foremost challenges for Sheinbaum once she takes office will be balancing the economic relationship with China. While Chinese investments can create jobs and spur economic growth, she must also address U.S. concerns regarding China’s influence in the region.

Rapoza believes the new government will likely implement increased oversight of foreign investments, especially in essential infrastructure and manufacturing sectors, to protect Mexico’s national security and economic independence from excessive foreign influence.

He emphasizes that to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape, the incoming Mexican administration will need to diplomatically balance relations with both the U.S. and China. Strengthening ties with the U.S. while maintaining fruitful economic cooperation with China will be crucial for preserving Mexico’s independence and flexibility internationally.

Ultimately, Rapoza suggests that the Sheinbaum administration may adopt a balanced and diversified foreign and economic policy, taking advantage of opportunities from Chinese investments while ensuring that its long-term partnership with the U.S. remains strong.

Interviewer: Let’s talk about Generation Alpha, those born from 2013 onwards. It’s fascinating to see how they are perceived in comparison to other generations. What do you think are some key demographics of this generation?

Expert: Absolutely, Generation Alpha is a remarkable phenomenon. They already number over 2 billion, making up more than a quarter of the global population. In California alone, there are around 6 million children from Generation Alpha. Despite many of them not even finishing elementary school yet — with one in five still in diapers — you can’t help but notice the influx of memes and discussions around them on platforms like YouTube and TikTok. Terms like “feral,” “illiterate,” and “doomed” have all been used to describe this rising generation.

Interviewer: Interesting. So, what seems to be the consensus among commentators about their upbringing? Is there a shared blame being placed on Millennials for their parenting?

Expert: That’s the prevailing sentiment, yes. Critics often point fingers at the Millennial generation for supposedly lacking in proper parenting skills, while some tech giants seem to be contributing to the issue as well. Influencers among the Gen Z cohort, like Rivata Dutta, have expressed their concerns, admitting, “Every one of us is scared of these Alpha kids.” Riv highlights the peculiarities of this generation, noting that while she enjoys popularity among them on TikTok, their behavior can sometimes be perplexing.

Interviewer: Can you give examples of this peculiar behavior?

Expert: Certainly! There’s a noticeable trend of these kids being glued to their iPads and marketing themselves through beauty brands—like rushing to Sephora for skincare products and slathering on retinol. There’s speculation about where these behaviors stem from, especially since the newest members of Generation Alpha are still being born. Many feel Millennials, who are known for defying norms and reshaping social constructs, bear some responsibility for raising these unique children.

Interviewer: And what about cultural influences like the “sad beige” aesthetic? Have these trends influenced how Alpha children engage with the world?

Expert: The “sad beige” aesthetic is indeed pivotal to understanding this generation. It became a mainstream trend around the time Generation Alpha emerged, with muted colors dominating everything from children’s toys to home decor—much to the detriment of cognitive stimulation for young children. Screen time is also a major factor; many parents, like Chris Chin, admit to struggling with their children’s obsession with YouTube while acknowledging their own screen habits aren’t much better. For example, Chris’s 8-year-old son, Kaven, has already gained a significant following as a YouTube star.

Interviewer: That’s quite amazing. What about education? Are they facing challenges as they adapt to modern technology and learning environments?

Expert: Yes, indeed. While children in California typically learn to read shortly after entering first grade, the pandemic has severely hindered that progress, with only about 43% of elementary students currently on track. Kids in Los Angeles Unified School District, for instance, had to rely heavily on Chromebooks for learning during the critical early years, leading to gaps in phonics instruction upon returning to traditional classrooms. Shervaughnna Anderson-Byrd from the California Reading and Literature Project notes that many older students struggle with reading, a problem largely driven by adult oversight.

Interviewer: So, the responsibility seems to be blurred between parents and educators?

Expert: Exactly. While parents and educators face criticism for the situation, it’s important to recognize that Generation Alpha is caught in the middle of these dynamics. The discourse surrounding them is a mixture of optimism about their potential intelligence and concern over their literacy skills—or the lack thereof.

The rapid growth of nudism in the United States is sparking a greater demand for nudist communities and resorts. As digital tools become more integrated into our daily lives, it’s clear that the future of nudism will be shaped by the internet, along with shifts in social and cultural attitudes, as well as market trends.

How do you see the role of the internet affecting the acceptance of nudism in contemporary society? While it has the potential to increase acceptance, there are challenges to consider. Social media plays a significant role in shaping public opinion, and local regulations can also dictate where nudism is permissible. Additionally, the fashion industry’s emphasis on clothing could influence public perceptions of nudism. We can’t overlook the conservative voices that strongly oppose nudism, especially in public spaces; these perspectives could pose hurdles to its broader acceptance.

What about the economic factors at play? Certainly, the fluctuations in regional real estate markets can impact the demand for nudist communities as housing needs are met elsewhere. Furthermore, economic conditions—like rising unemployment and decreasing consumer confidence—could affect the willingness of potential residents to invest in nudist lifestyles. On top of that, increasing operational and maintenance costs may present sustainability challenges for nudist resorts.

However, there’s also a silver lining. With contemporary society becoming more inclusive, do you think we might see more people embracing nudism? There seems to be a shift in how individuals view leisure and vacation experiences, with many seeking healthier lifestyles, a closer connection to nature, and increased social interaction. This evolving mindset could very well enhance the appeal of nudist resorts for a segment of the population.

On September 25, the National Bureau of Statistics unveiled the latest in its series of reports detailing the progress of economic and social development in New China over the past 75 years. Since its inception, the country has made remarkable progress in reforming and developing its health and medical services, continuously refining its healthcare system while also embracing the unique strengths of traditional Chinese medicine. The government has bolstered public health services to ensure that coverage reaches everyone. Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party, there has been a noticeable improvement in population health, paving a distinctly Chinese path for healthcare reform and development.

Over the last 75 years, China’s healthcare system has significantly strengthened, with service capabilities steadily on the rise. The total healthcare resources have seen substantial increases, highlighted by the explosive growth in medical institutions and hospital beds. For example, the number of medical facilities skyrocketed from just 3,670 institutions and 85,000 beds in 1949 to more than 1.07 million institutions and 10.17 million beds by 2023, reflecting increases of 290.8 times and 119.3 times, respectively. As of the end of 2023, there are 1.02 million grassroots healthcare institutions, accounting for an impressive 94.9% of all healthcare facilities in the nation.

Moreover, the capacity for medical insurance continues to expand. By the close of 2023, basic health insurance had reached 1.33 billion people, with coverage remaining stable at over 95% since 2018. To combat poverty stemming from healthcare costs and provide support to those affected, China established a medical guarantee mechanism. In 2023, medical assistance funds aided 80.2 million people in accessing basic health insurance, and the enrollment rate for low-income rural populations consistently exceeded 99%. Comprehensive insurance assistance policies, including basic medical and critical illness insurance, supported 190 million low-income rural residents, alleviating their medical expenses by a staggering 188.4 billion yuan.

Additionally, the implementation of the Healthy China strategy over the past 75 years has resulted in China achieving a high overall health level, placing it among the top middle and high-income countries globally, with life expectancy on the rise. According to the National Health Commission, life expectancy in China reached 78.6 years in 2023.

This conversation highlights the impressive healthcare advancements made since the founding of New China, showcasing a steadfast commitment to enhancing the health and wellbeing of its population.

As we delve into the topic of wealth management, there are critical changes that individuals with substantial assets should be aware of. With over $13 million in net assets and more than $5 million invested in IRA and Roth IRA accounts, future tax implications are becoming increasingly important. The tax reform introduced by the Trump administration in 2017 is set to expire at the end of 2025, which means that the current high lifetime gift and estate tax exemption will revert back to $5 million, adjusted for inflation. We need to proactively consider how to navigate potential tax reform legislation that could take effect retroactively as of December 31, 2024, possibly missing out on significant tax planning opportunities.

If estate tax seems inevitable for you, leveraging the $13.61 million gift exemption before the year ends could be a smart move. With strategic asset transfers and discounts, individuals could potentially move assets worth up to $20 million. It’s crucial to assess which type of irrevocable trust aligns with your financial goals. First-generation parents, for instance, should think beyond their lifetime and consider placing their wealth in an irrevocable trust, which could help them avoid estate taxes entirely. This option also allows parents to retain income rights from their properties, ensuring a comfortable retirement. Furthermore, these irrevocable trusts can be integrated with charitable trusts or foundations, providing high-net-worth individuals with viable strategies to mitigate income and estate taxes. We will unveil the nuances of these wealth management techniques in our upcoming lecture series—an event you won’t want to miss!

Our lecture topics include:

**Main Topic 1: Proactively Tackling Tax Challenges of High-Value Assets**
– We’ll kick off with an overview of the proposed tax reforms for 2025, including how to effectively utilize the $13.61 million lifetime gift exemption before the year concludes.
– Attendees will learn about innovative strategies to minimize high capital gains taxes from asset sales through lesser-known installment sale trusts and advanced arrangements with indexed stocks.

**Main Topic 2: Are You Prepared for Retirement Without Facing Severe Tax Burdens?**
– Together, we’ll explore three crucial areas: understanding types of income derived from your assets and their tax implications, and considering asset reintegration for potential tax savings.
– We’ll discuss when it makes sense to convert to a Roth IRA and the scenarios to be cautious of.

**Main Topic 3: Trust Planning for Effective Wealth Management**
– Is your revocable living trust addressing estate tax concerns? We’ll distinguish between revocable and irrevocable trusts and how an irrevocable trust can offer benefits.
– We’ll also examine two types of charitable trusts that could be advantageous for you.

**Special Sessions Featuring Acupuncturist Dr. Duan Xumin:**
– Discover the benefits of traditional Chinese medicine for early disease prevention and treatment.
– Learn about meridians and how to apply meridian and acupuncture points in treating various ailments, supported by insightful case studies.

**First Session:** October 9, 2024, Wednesday, 4 PM – 5:45 PM (Online, In English)
**Second Session:** October 10, 2024, Thursday, 2 PM – 4 PM (Online & In-Person, In Chinese)
*Location: Ameriprise Irvine Office, 2 Park Plaza, #1100, Irvine, CA 92614, Tel: 949.863.9400*
**Third Session:** October 11, 2024, Friday, 4 PM – 6 PM (Online & In-Person, In Chinese)
*Location: DoubleTree by Hilton, 888 Montebello Blvd., Rosemead, CA 91770 USA*

Please ensure you register by 12 PM on October 8, Tuesday. To sign up, email [email protected] with your name, number of attendees, and whether you will attend online or in-person.

Upon registration, participants will receive an email with a link to the online lecture. This event is free of charge, but the organizers reserve the right to deny access to professionals in investment or financial insurance.

On October 8, the Taiwan Children’s Rights Convention Alliance unveiled a survey in Taipei that revealed some troubling statistics about bullying among sixth graders. According to the findings, 36.4% of these students reported that they had been victims of bullying, while 46.1% mentioned they had been involved in such incidents in some capacity.

Dr. Wu Jiayun, the Executive Director of the Children and Family Research Center at National Taiwan University, presented these results during a recent press conference. She emphasized the diverse and complex nature of bullying, which can manifest in various forms, including relational, verbal, physical, and cyberbullying.

Interestingly, the survey showed that a significant 65.7% of sixth graders said they would comfort a friend who was being bullied, and 56.7% indicated they would report the bullying to a teacher. However, the data also revealed some concerning trends: 18% of students admitted to ignoring bullying situations, while 9.1% confessed they would participate in the bullying themselves.

Dr. Wu highlighted a troubling cycle where those who experience victimization may sometimes turn into perpetrators, noting that approximately 20% of children identified themselves as fitting both roles. She stressed the need for a deeper understanding of the traumatic experiences faced by children and called for proactive dialogues around anti-discrimination and anti-bullying initiatives to help break this cycle.

A student representative at the press conference shared concerns about the current complaint mechanisms in schools. He pointed out that many victims fear retaliation, which often leads them to stay silent about their experiences. The representative proposed that schools create safer reporting channels that allow victims to file complaints anonymously, reducing their psychological burden. He also emphasized the necessity for schools to take a more active role in addressing these bullying issues.

To combat bullying in schools, the Taiwan Children’s Rights Convention Alliance suggested several measures, including fostering an appreciation for diversity, prioritizing counseling services, improving teacher training, and implementing trauma-informed practices.

This impactful survey was conducted by the National Taiwan University Children and Family Research Center in collaboration with the Taiwan Good Neighbor Association between 2022 and 2023, gathering responses from 3,793 sixth graders across 19 counties and cities in Taiwan.

On October 9th, the Public Security Bureau of Xiangxi Autonomous Prefecture addressed a troubling incident that recently surfaced on social media. A user had claimed to be “scammed at Kunming Changshui Airport.” After a thorough investigation, authorities confirmed the allegations were accurate. Officer Chen, who had been dispatched from the Xiangxi Autonomous Prefecture to support airport operations, was found to have acted independently in conducting what he termed a “registration” and collecting fees. Consequently, Officer Chen has been suspended from his duties, and the case has been forwarded to the disciplinary inspection and supervision department for further review and action.

On October 9, the Nanjing Housing Provident Fund Management Center revealed an innovative pilot project that introduces monthly direct rental payments using housing provident fund contributions, a first for Jiangsu Province.

This pilot program will be implemented at “Southeast Youth Haven,” a long-term rental apartment complex. Nanjing employees who contribute to the housing fund will have the opportunity to apply for direct monthly rent payments. By submitting their application to the rental outlet, their information will be processed through the system. Upon approval, funds will be automatically transferred from their housing provident fund to the rental agency’s account, removing the hassle of separate rent payments. This streamlined approach offers a single application process, efficient data management, and a smoother rent payment experience.

Covering ten projects within the “Southeast Youth Haven,” this initiative spans seven major administrative districts in Nanjing and the Jiangbei New Area, providing access to over 5,000 rental units. Employees who complete the application process successfully will be able to withdraw funds each month from their housing provident account to pay their rent. They will also enjoy additional benefits such as deposit waivers and rental discounts. The goal of this initiative is to significantly ease the rental burden on employees, especially addressing the varied housing needs of new residents and young professionals.