Monthly Archive 18/10/2024

This season has been predominantly characterized by strong defensive performances, yet there’s a glimmer of hope for quarterbacks throughout the league. In a surprising turn, famed analyst Mel Kiper even proposed a ban on two-high safeties, reflecting the growing frustration over the offenses’ struggles. Fortunately, it appears that patience may have paid off as offenses began to hit their stride in Week 5.

The dreary theme of a defensive-heavy season gave way to an electrifying display of wide receivers maneuvering through defenses. Fans were treated to some breathtaking moments, including Ja’marr Chase’s stunning 70-yard catch-and-run and a thrilling overtime touchdown by Kirk Cousins. A particularly notable showdown unfolded between Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson.

One of the highlights of the weekend was CJ Stroud’s jaw-dropping 67-yard touchdown pass to Nico Collins, which demonstrated an impeccable connection. Stroud launched the ball a remarkable 59 yards directly into Collins’ arms, playing a crucial role in the Texans’ significant victory over the Buffalo Bills, despite Collins sustaining a hamstring injury during the play. Fortunately for Houston, they are set to face the struggling New England Patriots next, a matchup that could help them weather the injury storm and potentially improve to a 5-1 record.

On the defensive side, the Denver Broncos have been turning heads with their recent performances. Under the leadership of Vance Joseph, the team celebrated their third consecutive win, proving their ability to control games from the outset. Their tenacious defense held both the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New York Jets to minimal scoring, with standout moments like Patrick Surtain II’s 100-yard pick-six igniting their offense during the game against the Raiders.

Despite having only Surtain as their first-round pick, Joseph is effectively maximizing his defensive unit’s potential with an emphasis on tight coverage and aggressive blitzing. The Broncos’ defense has emerged as one of the league’s best, currently boasting the top expected points added (EPA) per pass at -0.3 and limiting opponents to just 135 passing yards on average per game. They are on track for their first winning season since 2016.

In contrast, the Cleveland Browns continue to struggle under Deshaun Watson, leading to a disappointing 1-4 record. Once heralded as a potential game-changer following a massive $270 million deal, Watson has faltered, and both coaches and fans are increasingly frustrated with his inability to steer the offense, evident in a series of penalties and missed opportunities during crucial games.

The New York Jets face a similar dilemma after trading for Aaron Rodgers, viewing him as a solution to their offensive struggles. However, following a disappointing performance against the undefeated Minnesota Vikings, which ultimately resulted in head coach Robert Saleh’s dismissal, it’s clear that Rodgers is having a tough time. His struggle to respond under pressure, coupled with a stagnant running game, casts a shadow over the team’s future. With just 4.5 yards per play in his last game, the Jets find themselves at a critical juncture, particularly due to their offensive coordinator’s lack of innovative play-calling.

As the Jets strive to avoid a sixth straight losing season, the addition of a dynamic receiver like Davante Adams might just provide the necessary spark for Rodgers and help the team regroup. Only time will tell if they can discover the missing piece to turn their season around.

In December 2019, during Apple’s only open day for the public at their headquarters, former Cupertino Mayor Gilbert Wong took a rare tour of the facility. In an exclusive interview, he shared insights from his experience negotiating contracts with Apple while he served as mayor. Wong recalled a clandestine meeting where he was shown the highly confidential blueprint of Apple’s headquarters, led by none other than Steve Jobs himself, as they engaged in intense discussions with Apple’s celebrated CFO, Luca Maestri.

Wong’s journey with Cupertino began in 2002 when he joined the city planning commission. He later transitioned to the city council, serving from 2007 to 2016, and held the mayoral position in 2011 and 2013. Notably, during his tenure as mayor, he played a crucial role in approving Apple’s decision to establish its headquarters in Cupertino, which required negotiating successfully between the city staff and Apple.

In 2010, while serving as Cupertino’s vice mayor, Wong received an unexpected phone call from Apple inviting him to a meeting. He anticipated a casual visit, but it turned into a significant encounter with Steve Jobs. Despite his battle with pancreatic cancer at the time, Jobs engaged Wong in a discussion about acupuncture and its health benefits.

As the conversation shifted to Apple’s plans for its new headquarters, Wong vividly remembers Jobs saying, “Gilbert, I want to invite you into this room to see our next project. Can we step into this dark room?” Jobs then retrieved a key and opened an inconspicuous door, which revealed a breathtaking sight: a large model of what would become the future Apple campus.

Wong described the model as “a complete representation of the Apple headquarters, featuring tables, people, trees, cars, and even a four-story cafeteria.” Witnessing this model of an architectural marvel left Wong deeply moved, as he and Jobs discussed various technical aspects, including the building’s height and design setbacks.

Negotiating with Apple wasn’t without challenges, as Wong candidly admitted. In 2013, Maestri reached out directly, stating, “I need to talk to you; the city council needs to approve the Apple headquarters plan.” At the time, Wong was preparing to take his family on a hike and prioritized family time over business. “Can you call me back later?” he asked.

Later that afternoon, they spoke again, and Maestri highlighted the urgency of moving forward with Apple’s project. Wong insisted that the residents of Cupertino required the expansion of the nearby Wolf Road overpass from four lanes to six, with Apple bearing part of the costs. “If you can let Tim Cook know, I’d like to see a six-lane interchange; residents need more lanes to cross I-280 and access Wolf Road,” he explained.

The negotiation process required some back and forth because Apple was initially hesitant about the extra expenditures. However, by October 2013, an agreement was reached on the Wolf Road expansion project, with Apple agreeing to fund the initiative. Construction is expected to commence between 2024 and 2025, once sufficient funds have been secured.

Wong also pointed out that recent audits from the California Tax Board regarding Apple’s online sales tax would not impact this project, as those tax issues were unrelated.

Reflecting on his negotiation experiences with Apple, Wong emphasized the importance of his role as a council member and mayor in facilitating development in Cupertino. He revealed that during the negotiations, he faced threats from others, especially during his second term as mayor. “It was a challenging moment, but I wasn’t afraid,” he said with confidence.

Wong still treasures the visitor badge from Apple’s open day in 2019, which serves as a reminder of a pivotal moment in Cupertino’s history.

As construction of skyscrapers in the Two Bridges area of Manhattan’s Lower East Side comes to a halt due to partner withdrawal, fresh news emerges from Chinatown: a new recreation center called “Blue Sea” may soon rise at 100 Division Street. This project promises to enhance Chinatown’s amenities, yet it also raises concerns as gentrification threatens to reshape the community. Given that gentrification has become an unavoidable trend in global cities, how should the Chinese community respond?

The recreation center is indeed set to provide much-needed entertainment space and could positively impact local tourism. However, the rise in property values and rents associated with such developments has put significant pressure on many residents. In recent years, several longstanding businesses in Chinatown—such as Phoenix Bakery, Ding Yau Hong Gift Shop, and New City Organic Tea—have been forced to close their doors due to skyrocketing rent, losing their homes after decades of operation. This trend may worsen with the ongoing wave of development.

Chinatown’s rich culture and food scene attract visitors eager to savor affordable local bites and appreciate traditional murals, like the iconic Zodiac mural located at the proposed site for “Blue Sea.” Yet, as gentrification accelerates, these culturally vibrant elements could disappear, making way for upscale restaurants that replace cherished local eateries serving roasted meats, rice rolls, and potstickers.

While the trend of gentrification is difficult to reverse, the community should not merely oppose it passively but actively engage in public dialogue to ensure their needs and concerns are heard and addressed. Although the “Blue Sea” project has pledged to preserve the dragon mural in front of the center—a positive step—the community can advocate for more comprehensive cultural preservation measures. For example, in Kyoto, Japan, the local government has implemented strict policies to protect numerous historical buildings and sites during gentrification. Chinatown could learn from this approach to achieve a balance between economic development and cultural preservation. Ultimately, the community’s future should be determined by the members who live there.

On September 21, the Silicon Valley Chinese American Computer Association (SVCACA) hosted an engaging conference titled “AI: The Present and Future” in Silicon Valley. The event attracted a diverse group of experts and industry leaders from the realms of artificial intelligence, technology, and innovation. Dedicated to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaboration within the Chinese American community, SVCACA set out to delve into the latest developments in AI and its future potential.

In her opening remarks, SVCACA President Sheena Chang emphasized the significance of the conference, stating, “We stand at a crossroads today; artificial intelligence is no longer a concept of the future but a driving force shaping our present lives. This conference aims not only to understand the current state of AI but also to reflect on its future implications.” She highlighted that the event would serve as a platform for in-depth discussions, groundbreaking ideas, and industry collaboration to propel technological advancement.

The conference featured prominent figures in AI who engaged in discussions about practical applications, ethical considerations, and the societal transformations that AI might bring. Attendees had the chance to gain valuable insights from experts and enhance their understanding of AI technologies through networking opportunities. Exciting conversations centered around the significant changes AI is introducing across various sectors, including healthcare, finance, online services, public transportation, security, and entertainment.

A standout moment at the conference was the keynote presentation by Teddy Lee, an executive from the highly regarded OpenAI. Additionally, several venture capital executives took part in discussions about future trends in AI and the companies they are monitoring closely. The venue was alive with energy as various AI startups showcased their innovative products, capturing the attention and curiosity of attendees.

On October 9, 2023, the Xinjiang Airport Group made an exciting announcement about their achievements during the recent National Day holiday. Can you tell us about the milestone the group reached between October 1 and 7, 2024?

Absolutely! During that week, the group surpassed an impressive 1 million passengers for the first time, recording a total of 1.068 million travelers.

That’s quite the accomplishment! How did cargo and flight operations perform during this holiday period?

The numbers were robust across the board. We reported a cargo and mail volume of 5,613 tons and managed a total of 8,518 flight takeoffs and landings. Specifically, Urumqi International Airport played a significant role, handling over 600,000 passengers for the first time—605,000 to be exact—which marks a 2.6% increase from the previous year.

Incredible! What was the peak travel day like, and what types of travel were most prevalent?

The peak travel day was October 1, where we transported an incredible 165,000 passengers in just one day. The majority of travelers were either tourists or visiting family, with outbound travelers surpassing those arriving. Within Xinjiang, popular destinations included Kashgar, Korla, Yining, and Aksu.

Were there any particular airports that saw significant increases in passenger numbers during this period?

Yes, indeed! A total of 20 airports, including Urumqi, Turpan, Kashgar, Korla, Tumxuk, Kuqa, Yining, Altay, Tacheng, and Hami, reported passenger throughput that exceeded last year’s figures. Kashgar Laining International Airport also celebrated a remarkable milestone, reaching over 100,000 passengers during the holiday with a total of 116,000, which represents a staggering 34.9% growth year-on-year.

What measures has the Xinjiang Airport Group taken to improve the travel experience for passengers?

To enhance convenience, we have intensified flight schedules from regional airports to Urumqi and introduced direct routes to major cities like Guangzhou, Beijing, and Xi’an. Additionally, we’ve upgraded several services, including overnight connections and faster security procedures, to better cater to our passengers’ needs.

Recent reports from Israeli Channel 12 reveal that the United States has been quietly engaging in negotiations with Iran regarding a potential ceasefire in the Middle East, with the help of several Arab nations. While Israel is not directly involved in these discussions, it is fully aware of them.

Senior Israeli officials have indicated that any prospective ceasefire would depend on specific conditions put forth by Israel. These conditions include the withdrawal of Hezbollah from Lebanon and the dismantling of all military bases associated with the group.

Despite these negotiations, the reports raise questions about whether they will have any effect on Israel’s current military operations in Gaza.

DeeAnn Noland has created her personal paradise in Southern California, where her estate sprawls across nearly seven acres atop a hill, overlooking the city below. With its Spanish villa-style architecture, this property offers 6,000 square feet of indoor space, an inviting pool, and palm trees providing shade from the blazing sun.

However, her dream home is not located in Beverly Hills, Bel-Air, or Malibu; it’s in Hemet, and she purchased this luxury property for just $740,000. While Southern California has its fair share of affluent luxury enclaves, buying a home in these exclusive areas often demands substantial financial resources. With soaring property prices in Los Angeles, some residents have opted to escape the hustle of city life, moving to hotter, dryer, and more isolated regions like Riverside County, San Bernardino County, or Kern County in search of ultra-affordable estates.

In the Los Angeles region, $1 million may no longer secure even a two-bedroom home, but driving a few hours into the countryside can yield a dream estate. At 67, DeeAnn, who grew up in Alhambra, a suburb of East Los Angeles, remembers her modest beginnings. After marrying her husband Manuel, their first home was a cramped space in Baldwin Park.

A Tropical Paradise for Exotic Animals

From those early days, DeeAnn started to crave more space. The further she moved away from the city, the larger her homes became—all while keeping the price comparable to what she sold. Her first move took her to Cherry Valley, just outside Yucaipa, where she bought a 2,600-square-foot home on an acre of land. In 2015, she sold that property and purchased her Hemet mansion, transforming it into a tropical haven filled with animals, including goats and exotic birds such as toucans and African crowned cranes.

Though DeeAnn is comfortably financially secure, she wouldn’t label herself as wealthy. Her late husband was a civil engineer with a decent salary, and now she supplements her income by breeding animals. Living in the cheaper Hemet area allows her to enjoy life in a style reminiscent of royalty.

Hemet is located in the San Jacinto Valley, where the median household income is $49,901 and the median home price is $444,221, according to data from Zillow. Just five years ago, Business Insider ranked it as the 44th worst city to live in the U.S., primarily citing high poverty and crime rates.

A World Tour Without Leaving Home

During a visit in July, the temperature outside exceeded 100 degrees before noon, but DeeAnn wouldn’t have it any other way. “I have air conditioning and a swimming pool,” she quipped. Although she acknowledges Hemet’s issues with homelessness and crime, she rarely ventures into the city, having grown accustomed to her home.

The savings from her Hemet purchase have allowed DeeAnn to transform her estate into a paradise she never wants to leave. “Since I have so many animals, I can’t travel, so I decorated each room as if it were a travel destination that I dream of visiting,” she explained.

Her living room boasts an ocean theme, while a corner of the kitchen is adorned with tropical rainforest plants. Her small study has been gradually transformed into an African safari, complete with faux zebra skin on the walls, carved wooden elephants on the floor, and replicas of ostrich eggs in the corners, alongside a six-foot-tall stuffed giraffe. “I can explore the world without leaving my home,” she said.

The Ephemeral Nature of Luxury

Los Angeles’s real estate appeal lies in its temperate climate, proximity to the coast, and a myriad of affluent neighborhoods that provide lavish lifestyles. For example, in Brentwood, even the least expensive homes start at $2 million, and some reach over $50 million. Celebrities and entrepreneurs are often seen leaving their hillside mansions to shop at local markets.

However, in remote places like Hemet, Palmdale, or Ridgecrest, options for luxury living become quite limited. Wealthier residents share shopping and dining locations with the general population, frequenting local shops, chain restaurants, and big-box stores like Target, Walmart, and Home Depot. Yet, some who purchase mansions in these isolated areas have discovered ways to compensate for the lack of opulent lifestyle amenities.

Joe Napoli, a real estate agent in San Dimas, noted that these individuals no longer feel the need to shop on Rodeo Drive. Instead, they order online and have items delivered to their doorstep. Their dining doesn’t depend on five-star restaurants, as many can cook gourmet meals in their kitchens. For these homeowners, shopping trips and fine dining have become less significant.

The Pandemic Spurs Desert Mansion Buying

Kenward Cooper, an agent who sold a mansion in the area, observed that since the pandemic, wealthy buyers have been increasingly drawn to desert and mountain properties. They’ve found that the same investment yields much more space, offering enhanced privacy. While the local luxury options are limited, many believe the trade-offs are worth it.

“Many people are willing to sacrifice a bit of lifestyle quality to buy the luxury home they desire here,” he shared. With the recent opening of a Sprouts Farmers Market in Palm Valley and the anticipated arrival of a Whole Foods, the situation is expected to improve further. Additionally, owning the largest home in a small community instills a sense of pride, akin to being the biggest fish in a small pond, naturally boosting one’s confidence.

Owning a mansion in a remote area can give homeowners the sensation of skyrocketing from middle-class to wealthy status overnight. However, the market can be unpredictable. While the demand for luxury homes in the countryside rose during the pandemic, there are still relatively few willing to invest millions in secluded properties. Over the past few years, real estate prices in the Los Angeles area have consistently increased, with some homes doubling or tripling in value since the onset of the pandemic.

Investing in Los Angeles real estate is typically seen as a safe bet, as land tends to maintain its value better than the structures on it. This explains why some wealthy buyers purchase luxurious homes, only to tear down existing structures afterward, or buy land and leave it undeveloped for decades.

William Gordon, a real estate agent in Bakersfield, pointed out that while land is generally more valuable in Los Angeles, the opposite is true in Bakersfield, where improvements, such as homes or other developments, significantly exceed land value. Consequently, remote luxury homes are increasingly larger, with additions like extra rooms or stunning pools, as owners feel confident they can recoup their investments. However, finding another “big fish” to occupy a spot in the small pond may prove challenging.

In larger cities like Bakersfield, which holds significance in oil and agriculture, there is indeed a demand for grand estates. Gordon recounted a transaction from 2017 involving a 9,595-square-foot mansion. An elderly owner wanted to downsize, and a young local surgeon was looking to upgrade. Gordon successfully facilitated a trade between them, resulting in a win-win situation for both parties.

Gordon emphasized that while many associate Bakersfield with cattle prods and sweltering summers, the area still possesses attractive elements. For some, scoring a bargain in the desert is an opportunity too good to pass up.

Today, we have the privilege of chatting with Karima Hazim Chatila and her daughter, Sivine Tabbouch, the talented duo behind Sunday Kitchen. They’re excited to share some delicious breakfast and brunch dishes that are sure to elevate your weekends.

“Lebanese cooking has a distinctive aroma, and one key element is sabaa bharat, a classic spice blend featuring seven spices,” Karima explains. “Each region has its own variations, and every family has its unique recipe. Ours is a reflection of our heritage.”

To kickstart your morning, they suggest pairing these dishes with fresh mint, chopped onions, pickles, and warm pita bread.

First on the menu is “Salatet foul medammas,” or Mum’s fava bean salad. “This dish takes elements from the traditional stew and reimagines them into a vibrant salad full of texture,” Sivine shares. “Just remember to soak your dried beans and chickpeas the night before if you’re planning to use them.”

Here’s how to make it:

**Ingredients:**
– 400g can of fava beans, rinsed and drained
– 400g can of chickpeas, rinsed and drained
– 2 tsp bicarbonate of soda (for dried beans)
– 3 garlic cloves, crushed
– Sea salt, to taste
– ½ yellow bell pepper, finely diced
– 1 small Spanish onion, finely diced
– 100g cherry tomatoes, quartered
– Fresh herbs: parsley, mint, oregano
– 120ml lemon juice
– 120ml extra virgin olive oil
– Zest of 1 lemon (for garnish)
– Pomegranate seeds (for garnish)

To prepare, drain and rinse the beans, then cover them with boiling water in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 minutes. In a bowl, mix the garlic and salt, then add in the warm beans, vegetables, herbs, lemon juice, and olive oil. Toss everything together and serve, garnished with lemon zest and pomegranate seeds.

Next, they recommend “Hummus bi tahini w’ lahme,” hummus topped with spiced minced lamb. Karima notes, “Using coarse minced meat really enhances the flavor, as the fat caramelizes in the ghee and creates a rich taste.”

**Hummus Ingredients:**
– 350g dried chickpeas
– 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
– 250g tahini
– 100ml lemon juice
– 3 garlic cloves
– Sea salt, to taste
– Ice-cold water (50–100ml)

**For the Lamb Topping:**
– 500g coarse minced lamb
– 1 tsp sabaa bharat
– ½ tsp ground cinnamon
– 2 tbsp ghee
– 75g pine nuts
– Paprika for garnish

“Make sure to soak the chickpeas overnight,” Sivine advises. “Then cook them until they’re tender but not mushy. Blend the chickpeas into a paste, gradually adding in the tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Finally, drizzle in the cold water.”

For the lamb topping, cook it in a hot pan with ghee, incorporating the spices until everything is well blended. Serve the hummus on a plate, topped with the spiced lamb and garnished with whole chickpeas and paprika.

Lastly, they introduce “Salatet bayd w’ batata,” an egg and potato breakfast salad that’s both quick and simple. “This dish really highlights the importance of quality ingredients,” Karima emphasizes.

**Ingredients:**
– 6 eggs
– 500g baby new potatoes
– A handful of oregano, mint, and parsley leaves
– Sea salt, to taste
– Ground pepper and Aleppo chili
– ¼ tbsp sabaa bharat
– 60ml extra virgin olive oil
– A squeeze of lemon
– Optional: sliced chili for garnish

To prepare this salad, boil the eggs and potatoes, then mix them with the chopped herbs, spices, olive oil, and lemon juice. “Be gentle when combining to keep everything intact,” Sivine advises.

Finally, they share the recipe for “Sabaa bharat,” the seven-spice blend that ties their dishes together. “It’s all about achieving the right balance with spices,” Karima explains.

**Sabaa Bharat Ingredients:**
– 2 tbsp black peppercorns
– 3 tbsp cumin seeds
– 3 tsp coriander seeds
– 3 tsp grated nutmeg
– 1 tsp cloves
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 3 tsp allspice berries

“Whether you grind whole spices or use ground versions, this blend is essential,” Sivine concludes.

With these dishes and the warmth of family cooking, you’re well-prepared to impress your guests at brunch. Thank you, Karima and Sivine, for sharing your culinary treasures with us today!

Recently, a heartwarming video captured the moment a father was overwhelmed with emotion after dropping off his daughter at preschool, unable to hold back his tears. His profound sense of longing seemed to match his child’s distress, prompting family members to take the little girl out for lunch to comfort her dad.

Separation anxiety is a common theme when children begin their first preschool experience, and it impacts parents just as much. The intensity of separation anxiety can vary widely among children; some may show minimal signs of distress, while others may struggle for weeks. With the National Day holiday coming to an end, many parents are left wondering if their children’s anxiety will return. To address this, we’ve invited Chen Ying, head of a kindergarten class at Dongfanghong Kindergarten in Guangzhou’s Yuexiu District, and He Jinni, vice head of the Education Department at Guangdong Yucai Kindergarten No. 2, to share their insights on how to help children navigate these emotional challenges during the school season.

**Understanding the Causes of Separation Anxiety**
Separation anxiety can stem from multiple sources, and each child’s experience is influenced by their unique personality and developmental phase. Chen Ying explains that the factors contributing to separation anxiety are complex.

To begin with, environmental changes play a significant role. Many children aged 0-3 primarily receive care from family members, with their daily interactions centered at home. When they reach three years old and start preschool, they encounter a drastic shift in their environment and social dynamics—similar to how adults require adjustment time when starting a new job or socializing in a new group. Preschool represents a larger, unfamiliar setting full of new faces, including teachers and peers, which can create unease as children adapt.

Additionally, insecurity can heighten anxiety. Before entering preschool, children are used to constant family support. In preschool, they must learn to trust teachers for similar attention. This transition from focused care at home to a classroom environment where teachers must divide their attention among many children can initially leave kids feeling vulnerable.

Children also face new demands for independence. At home, they often rely on family members for help, but preschool requires them to take on tasks like eating, dressing, and managing their belongings independently. These new responsibilities can contribute to anxiety as they adjust.

Moreover, uncertainty can worsen anxiety. Chen frequently hears children ask, “Are Mommy and Daddy coming?” Even as she reassures them that their parents will come back after naptime, they often ask the same question again, indicating that they are still grasping concepts of time and routine. Until children establish a consistent schedule for preschool, they may struggle to understand why they need to spend an entire day there, which amplifies their worries about their parents’ return.

Finally, peer influence can play a part in these emotional responses. Chen notes that a child who arrives at preschool calmly might begin to cry if they see another child upset. In these instances, teachers often separate the distressed children to provide individual support, as emotional reactions can easily spread among peers. The overall family environment and parenting styles can also significantly impact a child’s emotional readiness.

**How Can Parents Alleviate Their Own Anxiety?**
While children grapple with separation anxiety, many parents face it too. He Jinni offers some strategies for parents to ease their own worries before, during, and after their child’s entry into preschool:

1. **Before Enrollment:**
– Parents should familiarize themselves with the preschool’s safety protocols, including security measures and health standards regarding classroom environments and shared items.
– Building connections with other parents can be beneficial, as sharing experiences and concerns fosters mutual support.
– Adjusting their mindset is crucial; parents should recognize that anxiety is a natural part of growth—for both themselves and their children. Engaging in enjoyable activities, like exercise or reading, can help alleviate some of those worries.

2. **During Enrollment:**
– Keeping open lines of communication with teachers is essential. Parents should inform teachers about their child’s specific needs and establish a routine for checking in about their child’s daily experiences.
– Asking teachers about their strategies for emergencies can also provide peace of mind.

3. **After Enrollment:**
– Parents should handle minor issues—like small injuries or clothing stains—with calmness and a willingness to understand, rather than jumping to conclusions or assigning blame.
– Instead of merely worrying when a child claims to dislike preschool, parents should explore the reasons behind these feelings, addressing any specific conflicts or challenges related to activities.
– Actively participating in school events can strengthen the bond between parent and child while offering valuable insights into the preschool environment.

**Avoiding Inaction: The Importance of Intervention**
Over time, both children and parents typically experience a decrease in separation anxiety, adjusting to the preschool environment. However, does this mean that parents and teachers should simply wait for time to resolve these feelings?

He Jinni emphasizes that while children learn to cope with separation by engaging with their surroundings, ignoring their anxiety can have negative consequences. Prolonged, severe anxiety could affect a child’s emotional well-being and development, possibly leading to issues like shyness and social withdrawal.

Inaction can also result in lingering anxiety, creating unnecessary stress. Timely intervention can lead to a smoother transition and encourage healthier coping mechanisms. Therefore, parents should not hesitate to address their child’s anxiety, offering adequate support and guidance.

Chen Ying notes that every child experiences anxiety in their own way, and neglecting these feelings can adversely affect their ongoing development. Young children, in particular, may struggle to articulate their emotions as well as adults. If separation anxiety is overlooked, it could disrupt their daily life and learning, leading to further emotional challenges.

“Adaptation is a crucial theme as children enter preschool,” Chen states. “This process is dynamic and should occur at each child’s pace, allowing them to develop and progress comfortably.”

**Returning to Routine after the National Holiday**
Following the recent National Day holiday, some children may face a resurgence of anxiety as they readjust to preschool life. How can parents support their children during this transition? Drawing from her experience, Chen has several recommendations:

First, parents should stay calm about their own adjustment to this change. Just like their children, caregivers need to find their balance during this period while acknowledging their own concerns about their child’s transition. In this regard, Chen advises parents to strike a balance between managing their worries and recognizing that they and their child are embarking on this new phase together.

“Approach your discomfort with composure. Reach out to teachers when you are anxious about your child’s day. The calmer you are, the more quickly your child will adapt,” she suggests.

Second, it’s vital to remain consistent in dropping children off at preschool. Parents may hesitate to follow through this routine when faced with morning tears, which can send mixed signals to the child. Consistency is essential during this formative stage, helping children establish the habit of attending preschool regularly.

Chen encourages parents to engage in supportive routines, like reading books related to preschool at bedtime, fostering positive associations that can spark excitement about school. Maintaining good sleep habits and allowing ample time in the mornings can facilitate smoother departures. For example, if a child struggles to eat breakfast before school, having a small pre-school snack at home can ease this transition.

Furthermore, parents should establish a strong routine around taking their children to school, reinforcing the idea that attending preschool regularly is a standard part of life. By being consistent during this habit-forming phase, parents can help their children feel secure in their daily school experience.

On October 7, Forbes India published an article highlighting the wealthiest countries and regions for 2024, as estimated by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) using per capita GDP data. Luxembourg leads the ranking, followed by Macau and Ireland. Taiwan holds the 14th position, just behind Brunei and slightly ahead of Hong Kong.

In the article, it is explained that GDP reflects the total value of goods and services produced within a country. When this figure is divided by the population of permanent residents, it offers insights into the general wealth of the populace. However, to provide a more accurate assessment of a nation’s wealth, one must consider inflation rates and the cost of local goods and services. This is where the concept of Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) comes into play.

The article points out that while some affluent countries serve as tax havens, inflating their GDP figures by attracting external wealth, the PPP-adjusted GDP still offers a fairly accurate perspective on the wealth distribution among nations.

As of October 2024, Luxembourg, with its strong financial sector, ranks first with a per capita GDP (PPP) of $144,740. Macau follows in second place with $134,140, and Ireland comes in third with $133,900.

Countries ranking from fourth to tenth include Singapore, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Switzerland, San Marino, the United States, and Norway. Interestingly, half of these nations are in Europe, with four from Asia, and the U.S. stands as the sole representative from North America.

In the 11th to 20th positions, Taiwan’s per capita GDP (PPP) of $76,860 places it at 14th, trailing Guyana, Denmark, and Brunei, yet ahead of Hong Kong, the Netherlands, Iceland, Saudi Arabia, Austria, and Sweden. Similar to those in the top ten, half of the nations in this range are European, along with four from Asia, including Saudi Arabia, while Guyana is the only South American nation represented.

Despite boasting the highest number of billionaires in Asia—814 individuals with assets of at least $1 billion—neither China, Japan, nor South Korea made it into the top 20. South Sudan ranks at the bottom this year, with a minimal per capita GDP (PPP) of just $455.16.