Monthly Archive 17/10/2024

On the evening of September 6, the San Diego Padres, representing the National League West in Major League Baseball (MLB), took the field in Southern California. They delivered an impressive performance, recording a total of nine hits and two home runs, with an early three-run inning that set the tone for the game. They emerged victorious against fellow National League West rivals, the San Francisco Giants, with a final score of 5-1.

Throughout the regular season, the Giants and Padres have faced off eight times, splitting the outcomes evenly. This longstanding “Battle of Northern and Southern California” has proven to be both thrilling and popular, with the Padres holding a record of 448 wins to 492 losses against the Giants.

The matchup attracted a crowd of 42,595 fans, making it a vibrant atmosphere at the Padres’ home field. This season, ticket sales for the Padres have ranked just behind those of the Philadelphia Phillies and the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Currently, four teams are in active pursuit of the three available Wild Card spots in the National League playoffs. The Padres from Southern California are in a favorable position, contesting against the Arizona Diamondbacks, Atlanta Braves, and New York Mets.

At the center of the Padres’ success was 32-year-old third baseman Manny Machado, who bat fourth in the lineup. He launched two home runs, one in the first inning that traveled 375 feet to left field and another in the eighth that soared 419 feet to the same area.

This outstanding performance not only marked Machado’s standout night but also made him the franchise’s all-time home run leader, with a total of 163 home runs.

In a recent announcement, Chisco Transport, a prominent player in long-distance passenger transportation and logistics for over 45 years, unveiled plans to deploy more than 50 brand-new luxury buses featuring cutting-edge amenities across various routes.

Mr. Buchi Ochuba, the Head of Business Operations at Chisco Transport, highlighted the company’s significant upgrades aimed at enhancing service offerings. He noted that Chisco is expanding its branch network to ensure greater accessibility for customers nationwide.

“The new state-of-the-art, air-conditioned buses are already in service on both new and existing routes throughout Nigeria and West Africa,” Ochuba shared. “We’re excited to roll out our customer rewards program. With our modern fleet of luxury buses, expanded branches, and new routes, we are elevating the travel experience for our customers.”

Ochuba emphasized that the upgraded fleet prioritizes passenger comfort and safety. “Traveling in our new long or medium luxury buses is truly enjoyable,” he remarked, accentuating the premium seating arrangements that offer generous legroom, adjustable seats, and enhanced comfort for long journeys.

These buses also incorporate advanced safety features, including real-time GPS tracking and superior safety systems, ensuring secure travel experiences. Additionally, onboard entertainment systems are available for passengers to relax during their trips.

When discussing the branch expansion, Ochuba expressed enthusiasm, stating, “We’re thrilled to announce new branch locations that will soon launch across Nigeria, making it easier for our customers to access our high-quality services. We’re also extending our international routes to include major cities like Cotonou, Togo, and Accra, Ghana. Whether traveling locally or across borders, our customers now have more options than ever.”

He explained that strengthening the Chisco Transport bus fleet will enhance their popular 24 to 48-hour nationwide mail and parcel service. Ochuba reiterated the company’s dedication to recognizing loyal customers with the new Rides & Rewards Programme.

“We believe in rewarding loyalty!” he declared. “With our Rides & Rewards Programme, you can earn discounts and exclusive offers with every trip. The more you travel, the more you gain by booking through our user-friendly mobile app or on our website, www.chiscotransport.com.ng.”

“Chisco Transport is committed to continuously improving your travel experience. Join us on this exciting journey—where comfort, safety, and rewards are just the beginning!”

Title: Bridging Past and Present: How Nanchang Showcases Its Cultural Elegance Through Travel

By: Lu Mengmeng and Ding Xuan

What are “The Eight Elegances of Life”? As implied by the name, these traditional elements encompass the qin (a stringed instrument), chess (qi), calligraphy (shu), painting (hua), poetry (shi), wine (jiu), flowers (hua), and tea (cha). They represent a deep cultural heritage and a way of life, vital to China’s remarkable traditional culture.

Historically, “The Eight Elegances of Life” provided a framework for scholars and literati who aspired to lead an elegant lifestyle, appearing in a multitude of classical works. But in our modern society, how can we reinterpret and express these elements? How are they connected to contemporary life? This year’s National Day holiday will feature a city-wide cultural tourism event in Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, themed around “The Eight Elegances of Life,” promising to shed light on these questions.

Exploring Nanchang’s “Eight Elegances of Life”
Nanchang’s connection to the qin dates back to legends surrounding Ling Lun, the legendary ancestor of music. At the foot of Meiling Mountain lies the Hongya Danjing Scenic Area, one of the “Ten Scenic Spots of Yuzhang.” Here, a statue of Ling Lun is set against breathtaking natural scenery, where the soft sounds of water evoke a beautiful melody, marking it as the birthplace of classical Chinese music.

Traveling northeast from Meiling, visitors can find the archaeological park of the Han Dynasty Haimen Marquis State on the west bank of Poyang Lake. In 2019, over 5,000 bamboo slips were discovered in Liu He’s tomb, revealing the earliest recorded rules of Liu Bo, an ancient board game considered a precursor to chess from the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods.

Next, let’s delve into the calligraphy (shu) of Nanchang. Situated on the southern bank of Poyang Lake, the town of Jinxian Wengang is the birthplace of the esteemed Song Dynasty writer Yan Shu. This region boasts a pen-making tradition that dates back 1,600 years to the Eastern Jin period, earning the title of “China’s Pen Capital.” According to local legend, Yan Shu achieved excellence in the imperial exams due to his impressive cursive script, made possible by the high-quality pens crafted in Wengang.

Now, we turn to painting (hua). The scenic landscape around Meihu Lake hosts China’s first museum dedicated to ancient painters, the Ba Da Shan Ren Memorial Hall, named after the celebrated painter Zhu Da. Across the Gan River, the famed Pavilion of Prince Teng narrates poetic stories of Nanchang’s past, where Tang Dynasty poet Wang Bo famously penned the “Preface to the Pavilion of Prince Teng,” a hallmark of regulated verse.

Shifting focus to Nanchang’s wine (jiu), in Jinxian County, the Li Du Yuan archaeological site reflects a brewing heritage dating back to the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Known as the “hometown of wine,” this area enjoys a brewing history that spans over 1,500 years.

Each spring, Nanchang flourishes with golden sweet-scented osmanthus blossoms, recognized as one of the “Three Treasures of World Horticulture” and celebrated as an auspicious flower in China. Officially designated Nanchang’s city flower in 1985, it symbolizes the city’s lively spirit. Tea lovers can enjoy Xishan Bailu, a highly regarded tea originating from the Tang Dynasty in the West Mountain region of Nanchang, known for its fragrant and smooth flavor.

Reflecting on Nanchang’s 2,200-year history as a national cultural heritage city reveals numerous surprises. By intertwining “The Eight Elegances of Life” with both ancient and modern themes, we uncover a distinctive urban charm.

Connecting “The Eight Elegances” to Urban Life
Nanchang is already working on integrating these eight elements into everyday life. Last November, the city hosted the “Eight Elegances of Life” Cultural Wandering Month, featuring events centered around the popular national animation IP, “Thirty Thousand Miles in Chang’an.” This immersive experience interconnected history and culture through performances and music, demonstrating the continuity of these traditions.

From September 15 to November 26 of this year, Nanchang will continue to promote its “Eight Elegances of Life” urban tourism brand through a new initiative that harmonizes traditional aesthetics with modern lifestyles. This effort intertwines the stories of these eight elements with contemporary business practices, offering unique exploration routes for residents and visitors to savor Nanchang’s elegance and warmth.

“To enrich cultural tourism consumption patterns, we’re presenting new engagement opportunities and experiences,” explained an event organizer. “We’ve collaborated with 50 high-quality merchants and cultural landmarks, including the Nanchang Porcelain Plate Painting Museum, to provide unique experiences. Collecting stamps from these venues offers participants rewards, from bookmarks to special color-changing mugs.”

To appeal to younger consumers, organizers have set up check-in installations at popular spots like the Pavilion of Prince Teng and Donghu Yiku for capturing moments of cultural elegance. Participants can earn limited-edition prizes by collecting stamps and “super symbol” tokens.

This initiative also includes a design competition inviting students and designers from across the country to create innovative pieces that reflect Nanchang’s unique characteristics within the framework of the Eight Elegances.

In Nanchang, the Eight Elegances are revitalizing urban daily life, serving as cornerstones for a richer quality of life. “Today, elegance infuses every aspect of life in Nanchang. By revealing the city’s historical and cultural wealth and creating new experiences around the Eight Elegances, we aim to provide visitors with fresh insights, showcasing a modern and stylish Nanchang that reflects its unique cultural identity,” commented Yang Xiqin, Chief of the Promotion Section at Nanchang’s Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television, and Tourism.

As the National Day holiday approaches, let’s embark on a journey through Nanchang to discover a city life that beautifully intertwines its rich history with contemporary elegance.

As gold prices reach new heights, Costco is experiencing an unprecedented demand for its gold bars, with reports indicating that 77% of their stores were out of stock by early October. Shoppers are flocking to Costco, drawn not just by competitive membership pricing but also attractive cashback offers, as many see gold as a way to hedge against inflation.

A recent Bloomberg report highlights that spot gold prices have surged nearly 30% this year compared to last, smashing previous records and outperforming various commodities, U.S. stocks, and bonds. This surge is largely attributed to gold’s reputation as a safe-haven asset amid geopolitical and economic uncertainties, as well as its role in wealth preservation. Following recent interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, gold prices recently surpassed $2,600 an ounce. In environments with low interest rates, gold, which does not yield a return, generally sees price increases.

Currently, Costco lists the pre-tax price of a 1-ounce gold bar at $2,689.99, but these are sold out. Their pricing is more competitive than that of traditional precious metal dealers, alongside membership rewards. According to Bloomberg’s analysis, approximately 77% of Costco locations across 46 states ran out of gold bars within just the first week of October.

There are indications that some financially strained Americans are looking to profit from rising gold prices. Many are purchasing gold at Costco and then selling it at pawn shops and jewelry stores, leading to an influx of sellers in the marketplace. Last June, Costco began offering Swiss-made 24-karat gold bars, which are packaged attractively in cardboard and plastic, resembling chocolate bars. During a September earnings call, company executives revealed that gold sales have skyrocketed, yielding over $100 million in revenue within a single fiscal quarter—approximately equivalent to 51,740 ounces of gold based on prevailing prices.

Gary Millerchip, CFO of Costco, noted in an email that gold and silver sales have become a “significant component” of their e-commerce growth. Meanwhile, Stefan Gleason, the CEO of a major precious metal retailer, emphasized that Costco’s offerings make gold ownership more accessible than ever. Currently, it is estimated that less than 2% of Americans own gold or silver outside of jewelry; even a slight increase to 5% or 10% in ownership could dramatically impact the market.

Li, a Chinese-American customer, expressed her disappointment after several unsuccessful attempts to purchase gold bars at her local Costco. She highlighted that enthusiasm for gold within the Chinese community is notably higher compared to other groups, fueled by daily discussions in mainland China advocating for gold purchases. In her attempts to find gold bars at her local store, she’s had to explore other mainstream retailers for a better chance. However, with prices consistently climbing over the last six months, the gold bar she once considered has now seen an increase of over $800.

In recent weeks, China’s A-shares have experienced a remarkable upward trend, creating a buzz among investors. With credit loan rates at historic lows, many stock traders are eager to seize this opportunity for investment. However, authorities and banks have issued strong warnings against the improper use of loans for stock trading, emphasizing that any violations will lead to immediate loan recalls. Despite these alerts, banks recognize the practical challenges in enforcing such measures.

A report from Securities Times highlights that as A-shares continue to gain momentum, investor enthusiasm for leveraging their investments is on the rise. By September 30, the financing balance across the stock exchanges in Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Beijing soared to an impressive 1.43 trillion yuan (approximately $203.7 billion), reflecting a significant increase of 45.9 billion yuan from the previous day.

The Financial Times, in its coverage under the People’s Bank of China, noted that financial regulatory authorities have instructed commercial banks to rigorously manage leverage and ensure that bank loans do not illegally flow into the stock market. This guidance underscores an important regulatory boundary that must be enforced.

Reports from Beijing News and Caixin reveal that the recent surge in A-shares has prompted many to consider borrowing for investment, leading to a noticeable rise in personal loans. On social media, a growing number of investors are sharing their intentions to fund stock trading with credit, with some even claiming to have already transferred funds into their trading accounts.

This year, with consistent drops in borrowing rates and aggressive competition among banks for consumer loans, several institutions have rolled out exceptionally low interest rates, with some dipping around 2%. In contrast, financing rates from brokerages typically exceed 5%. Historically, during favorable market conditions, it’s not uncommon for individuals to channel funds from consumer loans, mortgages, and business loans into the stock market.

The People’s Bank has reiterated that utilizing loans for stock trading contravenes regulatory standards, prompting multiple banks to reinforce their prohibition against the use of credit funds in both the real estate and stock markets.

For instance, Heyuan Rural Commercial Bank has declared that under national financial regulatory guidelines, credit funds are prohibited from being allocated to real estate or used for stock, futures trading, financial derivatives, or any other illegal activities. If a customer is found misusing credit funds, the bank will take swift action to recover the loan.

Nonetheless, China is grappling with significant challenges in preventing personal loans from being diverted into the stock market. Wang Pengbo, chief analyst at Botong Consulting, pointed out that channeling low-interest consumer loans into stocks is essentially a leveraging tactic that can lead to serious misallocation of funds and intensify asset bubbles. If problems arise within the stock market, the repercussions could quickly spread to banks and other financial institutions, resulting in a rise in non-performing loans and a decline in asset quality.

Are you noticing a decline in your sexual energy? From being overly ambitious in the bedroom to managing life with pets, experts reveal habits you might not realize are affecting your sex life—and how you can improve it.

**Is Your Bedroom a Mess?**
“Clutter can significantly impact libido,” says sex educator Portia Brown. “An unorganized space can lead to stress, which doesn’t foster a fulfilling sex life.” Instead of enjoying intimacy, you might find yourself distracted by laundry. Men’s sex coach Cam Fraser recommends transforming your bedroom into a “little sanctuary.” He suggests taking five minutes to tidy up before engaging in sexual activities—putting away dirty clothes and making the bed can create a more inviting environment. He also emphasizes the importance of avoiding discussions about errands or to-do lists while you’re in bed.

**Are You Cuddling Too Much?**
If one partner desires constant cuddling, the other may feel overwhelmed, leading to a disconnection. Therapist Natasha Silverman from Relate explains, “One partner pulling away can intensify the other’s need for closeness, creating an unhealthy cycle.” She reassures us that this dynamic is common and not a sign of a failing relationship. Cuddling preferences can change over time, so instead of making assumptions, she suggests simply asking your partner, “Is this okay? Do you enjoy this?” If cuddling is becoming a strain, allowing your partner some space may encourage them to reconnect.

**Is Your ‘Sexual Currency’ Low?**
Miranda Christophers, a psychotherapist, defines “sexual currency” as those flirtatious moments—like kisses and lingering looks—that build intimacy outside the bedroom. A lack of these affectionate gestures can take a toll on your sexual confidence. If you’re unsure how to reignite sexual touch, think back to what felt comfortable before and introduce those actions gradually. Christophers suggests having light-hearted conversations about what each of you enjoys to create a more receptive atmosphere.

**Are You Initiating Sex Effectively?**
Sex educator Karen Gurney underscores the importance of ensuring your partner responds positively to your initiation style. Often, people don’t communicate their preferences for how intimacy should begin. When one person always takes the lead, the other may feel undesired. Open conversations about how each of you prefers to initiate intimacy can help bridge this gap.

**Are Pets Interfering?**
“Anything that distracts can disrupt sexual response,” Gurney points out. Many clients report that pet interruptions during intimacy are a common source of frustration. For those starting new relationships, it’s wise to discuss pet policies before becoming physically intimate. Established couples should establish boundaries. If you’re dealing with a disruptive pet, Christophers recommends working together to manage distractions and finding ways to reconnect after any interruptions.

**Is Your Workout Too Intense?**
Exercise is important, but excessive workouts can negatively impact your libido. Justin Lehmiller from the Kinsey Institute indicates that long, taxing workouts can lead to fatigue and hormonal changes that diminish sexual desire. Consider balancing your workout routine and stay alert for signs of overexertion, such as low energy or disrupted sleep.

**Are You Waiting Too Long for Intimacy?**
Joan Price, a seasoned sex educator, encourages couples to reconsider when they engage in sexual encounters. She explains that blood flow redirected to digestion can make arousal and climax harder to achieve. Instead, she suggests engaging in sexual activity when your energy levels are high, like earlier in the day or before dinner.

**Is High Blood Pressure a Barrier?**
High blood pressure can greatly affect sexual function, leading to issues such as insufficient lubrication for women and difficulties maintaining erections for men. Dr. Shirin Lakhani emphasizes that managing blood pressure through diet, exercise, and possibly medication is crucial for a healthy sex life.

**Are You Trying Too Hard to Be Adventurous?**
Sexual therapist Emily Jamea advises couples to gradually ease into new sexual activities. If new experiences feel overwhelming, stress responses can overshadow excitement. Consider making “Yes, no, maybe” lists to help explore boundaries and ease into shared interests.

**Do You Have a Growth Mindset About Sexual Intimacy?**
Embracing a growth mindset means partners are open to learning and adapting sexually. Regular discussions about desires can foster intimacy and satisfaction. Price recommends starting conversations with positive affirmations about your current experiences before addressing areas for improvement.

**Are You Lacking New Experiences Together?**
Couples who seek new experiences outside the bedroom often enhance their sexual interactions. Silverman points out that injecting excitement into your overall relationship can invigorate intimacy. Approach your partner about exploring new activities together, framing your desires as opportunities for connection rather than criticism.

**Are You Open to Feedback?**
Effective sexual communication involves both expressing needs and being open to your partner’s thoughts. Price suggests creating a supportive dialogue about what works for both of you sexually, emphasizing that adapting based on feedback can enhance mutual satisfaction. Instead of becoming defensive, try remaining curious and asking for specifics to refine your intimate connections.

By exploring these aspects of your relationship, you can pave the way for a more fulfilling and vibrant sex life.

The NFL has recently made a significant shift by embracing institutional capital, effectively ending its long-standing resistance to private equity investments. In a recent resolution, the league now permits private equity funding for individual teams, aligning itself with major U.S. sports leagues like the NBA, NHL, MLB, and MLS, which have already integrated institutional investments. Remarkably, the only dissenting voice was Mike Brown, the owner of the Cincinnati Bengals, who opposed the proposal, citing his commitment to protecting the financial health of smaller franchises amid soaring team valuations and media revenues.

While this new ownership structure may not produce immediate changes, some industry experts suspect that a gradual transition towards private equity’s profit-centered motives is on the horizon. The NFL has strategically placed limits on private equity investments, restricting individual funds to a maximum 10% stake in any franchise, barring them from decision-making roles, and requiring them to hold their investments for at least six years. Currently, only four funds are allowed to invest, each known for their long-term visions and substantial financial assets. Notably, sovereign wealth funds and similar entities are prohibited from entering the league, in stark contrast to the NBA’s approach, which welcomed a wider variety of investors back in 2022.

Historically, the NFL resisted welcoming institutional investments, believing that the interests of the league and these investors were fundamentally incompatible. While the NFL focuses on the welfare of teams, fans, and the sport as a whole, private equity investors typically prioritize shareholder profits. However, rapidly increasing team valuations—roughly $5.9 billion for the average NFL team, compared to $4 billion in the NBA and $2.6 billion in MLB—have led the league to reconsider its stance. The shrinking pool of ultra-wealthy individuals capable of purchasing teams has further motivated the NFL to open its doors to private equity investments, offering franchise owners essential capital to stay competitive.

The NFL’s initial limits on private equity investments seem designed to maintain its family-oriented image, which is deeply rooted in communities and fan loyalty. During discussions about these regulatory changes, New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft emphasized that the focus would remain on community rather than profit—a statement that invites skepticism. As the league opens itself to private equity investment, the concern is that it may pave the way for a more commercialized and profit-driven future.

The overarching goal of this investment strategy is to diversify the pool of potential investors, inherently increasing competition for ownership stakes. The NFL has kept a tightly controlled ownership model, limiting purchases to a select group of extremely wealthy individuals. Broadening the investor base could drive up team valuations even further, making institutional investments more appealing and harder to ignore.

This speculation is grounded in the experiences of other leagues, such as the NBA, which first embraced outside investments in 2020. Although initial talks highlighted a commitment to community and reputation, the league has since attracted a wider and potentially more controversial array of investors. Although current regulations cap sovereign wealth funds at a 5% stake per club, it’s reasonable to predict that the NFL may follow a similar path toward increased financialization.

The NFL is acutely aware of how unregulated investment practices can negatively affect fan sentiment, as evidenced by recent controversies in European soccer—like the Super League protests and dissatisfaction over rising ticket prices. This awareness might be why the league has cautiously engaged with institutional investments to date. Reports indicate that the NFL plans to claim a share of profits from private equity investors at the time of sale, ensuring that financial gains benefit the league as a whole, rather than just a select few owners.

However, institutional investors—often driven by the desire for high returns—pose their own challenges. In the Premier League, the contemporary focus of sports investment has shifted from exit strategies to generating consistent revenue over extended periods. Investors may find opportunities for lucrative dividends even in clubs that aren’t profit-generating, leading to a revenue-driven paradigm where losses can be leveraged for tax advantages.

Many NFL-sanctioned private equity investors have similar profit-driven motivations as some of the Premier League’s most criticized owners, often holding stakes in European football clubs, which speaks to their focus on revenue streams. For instance, Sixth Street, now permitted to invest in the NFL, has already made considerable investments in Barcelona and Real Madrid.

As the NFL ventures into the realm of institutional investment, it faces the challenge of balancing the attraction of new capital while preserving the sport’s core values. The league has a unique opportunity to avoid missteps seen in other sports, but whether it will capitalize on this moment remains uncertain. The Premier League’s transformation serves as a cautionary tale, demonstrating how new wealth and stadiums can alienate dedicated fans, replacing meaningful experiences with commercial alternatives. Unless the NFL proactively addresses these concerns, it risks following a similar path, succumbing to the pressures of financialization and market demands.

On October 8, in Huzhou, a representative from the Fuxi Street office in Deqing County expressed enthusiasm as they shared, “These potatoes hail from Zhaikong Town in Aba Prefecture, Sichuan Province, where more than 90% of the residents are Tibetan. Almost every household cultivates potatoes, and our collaboration has opened new markets for them!”

Behind the representative, trucks laden with potatoes rolled into Fuxi, delivering a sweet taste from 2,100 kilometers away.

The staff member elaborated on the partnership between Deqing County and Zhaikong Town, emphasizing their joint efforts to stimulate economic growth through industry support and resource sharing. To tackle the issue of unsold potatoes in Zhaikong, Fuxi launched the “Potato Digital Plan,” which included signing a cooperative agreement aimed at shared prosperity and establishing a dedicated delivery network to facilitate the transport and sale of these potatoes.

As part of the “Potato Express,” they’ve teamed up with Zhejiang University of Technology and the local agricultural bureau to train new farmers through both online and in-person sessions. These trainings focus on planting techniques and marketing strategies to boost yield and market competitiveness.

The journey of these potatoes symbolizes a broader community effort in Deqing County, dedicated to fostering shared prosperity and happiness. In recent years, the county has prioritized strengthening a sense of shared identity among various ethnic groups, working to create a warm and inclusive atmosphere for all.

Take Longsheng Village, for example, where girls from the Gelao ethnic group in Sichuan and those from the Zhuang ethnic group in Guangxi coexist. This area has welcomed many new residents, and the sense of community and happiness is flourishing.

A walk through the picturesque Fenghuang Villa in Longsheng Village reveals charming traditional-style homes with white walls and black tiles, set against lush greenery. The village is equipped with essential facilities such as children’s centers, reading rooms, and smart service stations, enhancing the comfort and convenience of life for residents.

Themes of shared prosperity, harmonious neighborhoods, and vibrant culture intertwine to tell the story of Deqing’s ethnic communities.

Currently, Fuxi is leading initiatives like forming ethnic volunteer teams and the Old Wang Studio to promote grassroots governance and conflict resolution, which contribute to the happiness of the community. They’ve also set up the Fuxi Ethnic Arts Troupe and the Pomegranate Red Propaganda Team to enhance cultural performances and outreach, enriching the community’s cultural landscape.

For instance, the Xing Mountain Community, home to over 3,000 permanent residents—including 2,000 newcomers from 19 different ethnic minorities—stands as a model for integrating new and long-standing residents. The Xing Mountain Pomegranate Red Community emphasizes convenience and benefits by establishing ethnic reading rooms, public squares, elderly care facilities, daycare centers, and artistic teams for traditional performances.

Looking to the future, a representative from Deqing County’s United Front Work Department remarked, “We will continue to strengthen a shared national identity and strive to create a happy, livable home for people of all ethnic backgrounds.”

On October 8, representatives from Chengdu Rail Transit Group shared remarkable data about the Chengdu Metro’s performance during the 2024 National Day holiday. They revealed that a staggering 38.88 million passengers were transported across 43 stations, marking a historic peak. Particularly noteworthy was the newly launched Ziyang Line, Sichuan’s very first intercity rail transit line, which recorded an impressive 416,100 passengers over the holiday.

Data from Chengdu Rail Transit Group indicates that the average daily ridership for the metro network surged to 5.55 million during this year’s National Day, positioning Chengdu as one of the top cities in the country. Overall, the total passenger flow for the metro network saw an impressive increase of 5.99% compared to the same holiday in 2023. The Tianfu Airport Line, which connects major terminals including Terminals 1 and 2 along with stations like Lianshanpo and Yixin Lake, achieved record-high passenger numbers during this period. Researcher Chen Xiaoduan from the “Qunar” Big Data Research Institute pointed out that the excellent accessibility of public transport and the wide variety of established tourist attractions greatly influenced tourists’ spontaneous travel choices.

Chengdu boasts over 600 kilometers of operating urban rail transit, with an impressive 33% coverage rate within an 800-meter radius of its stations. This places the city among the nation’s leaders, offering tourists the convenience of finding metro stations within a mere 10-minute walk, enhancing the city’s appeal to travelers.

Before the holiday, the Ziyang Line was launched and faced its first significant test regarding passenger volume during the holiday period. Statistics reveal that the line effectively transported 416,100 passengers throughout the break, averaging about 59,000 passengers per day, with October 1 reaching a peak of 76,000 trips.

During the holiday, passenger traffic at major attractions linked to the metro system reached an astounding 2.62 million, with Tianfu Square Station experiencing the highest single-day traffic on October 1, as over 14,000 people entered to participate in the flag-raising ceremony.

In addition to tourism, Chengdu hosted a variety of concerts and anime exhibitions that drew in younger crowds. Data indicates that passenger flows at metro stations near these venues surged between 52% and 164% year-on-year, with Dujian Station recording the most significant increase. Nearby stations, such as Fenghuangshan Sports Park and Dong’an Lake Sports Park, saw ridership increases of 42% and 21%, respectively, when compared to similar events in 2023. This uptick reflects a growing trend among residents to utilize green transportation for attending events.

The veteran quarterback was unable to pull off one of his signature comebacks as Minnesota narrowly defeated the New York Jets 23-17 in the nation’s capital on Sunday.

With just three minutes left on the clock and his team down by six, Aaron Rodgers found himself in a familiar position. Throughout his illustrious career, he has orchestrated 32 game-winning drives, making this moment should have felt routine. However, this time it felt different.

As Rodgers began pushing the Jets down the field, fans likely hoped for one more magical moment from the experienced quarterback. But at 41 years old, he was unable to deliver. His first attempt was an overthrown pass to star wide receiver Garrett Wilson. Then, with only nine seconds left, the game took a heartbreaking turn when Stephon Gilmore intercepted his pass, sealing the Vikings’ victory.

“I just underthrew it a little,” a visibly frustrated Rodgers said after the game. He also disclosed that he had suffered a low ankle sprain earlier, noting, “I’m definitely banged up. I got my foot caught in the pile there. There were a lot of things that made some noises on the way down.”

The atmosphere at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium was electric, with 61,139 fans in attendance—making it the second-largest sporting event in the UK that weekend. They soaked up the electrifying NFL experience, complete with fist bumps and celebratory moments, as the game unfolded into a slow-burning thriller.

The game’s first half took an unexpected turn when the Vikings quickly established a 17-0 lead, largely due to an uncharacteristically poor performance from Rodgers. He kicked off the night by throwing a pass that was intercepted by Vikings linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel, who returned it for a staggering 63-yard pick-six. Another interception thrown to Camryn Bynum only added to the Jets’ struggles, much to the delight of the crowd, who could be heard cheering as the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ “Give It Away” played in the background. Amid the chaos, Rodgers simply shook his head before retreating to the sideline.

Minnesota’s defensive coordinator, Brian Flores, proved his prowess by implementing a strategy that left the veteran quarterback looking confused. Social media commentators were unanimous in declaring that Rodgers, still recovering from an Achilles injury, appeared ineffective—too slow and hesitant when facing pressure.

However, as the game progressed, Rodgers began to find his footing. He connected with Allen Lazard for a 14-yard touchdown pass, closing the gap to 17-7 by halftime. A field goal from Greg Zuerlein brought the Jets within seven at 17-10, but frustration struck again when Lazard dropped a potential touchdown pass in the end zone.

Despite the Jets’ defense stalling, a long 53-yard field goal from Reichard gave the Vikings a 20-10 lead in the fourth quarter. Still, a one-yard touchdown pass to Wilson made it a nail-biting contest at 20-17. With the Vikings extending their lead to 23-17, Rodgers took the field for what he hoped would be the game-winning drive. Unfortunately, his efforts fell short, leaving the Jets with a disappointing 2-3 record to start the season.

“We’re slow starters, and we make too many mental errors,” Rodgers reflected. He finished the game with 29 completions out of 54 attempts, totaling 244 yards, along with two touchdowns and three interceptions. “There are too many mistakes in general. But I still have a lot of confidence in this team. I believe we have the potential to make a run.”

A silver lining for the four-time NFL MVP came when he connected with tight end Tyler Conklin in the third quarter, making him only the ninth player in NFL history to surpass 60,000 career passing yards.

On the other side, the Vikings head into their bye week with an unbeaten 5-0 record—a feat few anticipated at the season’s outset, where they were predicted to finish last in the NFC North.

“You have to give credit to our defense,” said Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell. “We needed them today. It was a bit of a sloppy game with some drizzle, but our team didn’t look for excuses. We just kept playing. There are going to be days like this; that’s the nature of our game. I’m proud of the way our guys fought.”