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Amid rising concerns from France, Germany, and the Netherlands, the rollout of the EU’s entry-exit system (EES), initially set to launch on November 10, has been delayed for the third time. What exactly is causing this setback?

The EES was intended to require non-EU citizens to provide fingerprints or photographs prior to entering the Schengen area. Originally slated for last summer, the system faced pushback from France, which raised alarms about its potential disruptions to significant events like the Rugby World Cup and the upcoming Olympics. After several postponements, a new launch date was set for October 6 of this year, but it has now been delayed once more due to concerns over the impact on school trips to the EU.

What are EU diplomats saying about this ongoing situation? Sources indicate that it’s highly unlikely any version of the EES will be operational in just four weeks, despite the European Commission announcing a launch date last month.

This Thursday, EU home affairs ministers will meet in Luxembourg to discuss alternative plans. What options are being considered? One possibility is a phased rollout of the system, gradually introducing it at ports and airports over several months, potentially extending up to a year. Another idea is an “EES Lite” approach that might be implemented next year, enabling passport data uploads to a central database, while fingerprinting and facial recognition could occur later at various locations.

What additional challenges are being encountered? A significant concern at places like Dover port involves delays that occur when passengers have to exit their vehicles or buses to provide fingerprints. A proposed alternative could involve amending EU rules to allow tourists and others to upload biometric data via an app or at secure locations outside the ports and airports.

As noted by one informed source, the situation appears to be rather chaotic, with EU leaders struggling to find a path forward without losing credibility. France, Germany, and the Netherlands make up approximately 40% of all inbound traffic to the EU via major airports like Charles de Gaulle, Schiphol, and Frankfurt, and have raised specific issues about capacity at smaller airports such as Cologne and Munich.

Back in early September, these three nations communicated to the European Commission that they could not assure their readiness for the EES. France also expressed concerns about holiday traffic from Dover during Christmas and the February school breaks. However, despite ongoing discussions, no resolution has been reached thus far.

Regarding truck traffic, what does the data reveal? Reports indicate that up to 90% of drivers transporting vehicles across the Channel hold EU passports, suggesting that truck traffic isn’t a primary issue. Nevertheless, there are concerns that delays with passenger vehicles and tour buses could result in significant backups in Dover and on nearby motorways.

So, what’s really causing these delays? The complications stem from each country’s ability to connect with eu-Lisa, the agency responsible for managing the technology and databases associated with free movement, security, and justice within the EU.

As one diplomat familiar with the situation remarked, “eu-Lisa doesn’t seem to be ready yet. That’s the problem, and the Commission will need to devise solutions to expedite the process and get this functioning by November 10. But I’m skeptical.” They emphasized, “The issue doesn’t lie on our end; it lies with them.”

During a recent flight from Sydney to Tokyo, passengers encountered an unexpected predicament when the in-flight entertainment system malfunctioned. Instead of choosing popular films like *The Fall Guy* or *Inside Out 2*, they found themselves gravitating toward a movie that primarily features Dakota Johnson and Sean Penn engaged in conversations inside a taxi.

Stuart Heritage, a journalist, described the scenario as a “perfect storm,” a term used to describe a situation where multiple factors come together to create chaos. He even proposed a new term, “Daddio,” to encapsulate this unique occurrence, particularly highlighting the puzzling decision to screen a film with explicit content on a packed airplane.

On flight QF59, a technical issue prevented passengers from selecting their own movies, prompting the crew to gather opinions from those on board. To everyone’s surprise, the clear favorite was “Daddio,” a drama that includes some risqué scenes that are decidedly not family-friendly. Passengers had no choice but to watch this film, unable to pause or change the channel on their individual screens, while the film’s explicit content, which featured sexting exchanges, made matters even more uncomfortable.

While Qantas eventually replaced “Daddio” with a kids’ film, Heritage couldn’t help but reflect on the absurdity of the situation. He recalled a school incident where a teacher mistakenly played an inappropriate film, a blunder that feels oddly relatable in this context.

The more pressing question, however, is why passengers would choose “Daddio” over more mainstream and entertaining offerings. Despite its explicit nature, the film has been largely criticized for its dullness, with most of the action confined to a taxi and lengthy discussions.

Heritage shared his confusion over the group’s collective choice, speculating about the mindset of those who preferred to endure 101 minutes of somber dialogue instead of opting for more entertaining alternatives. This brings forth a troubling question about the shared psychology of a crowd that would select such a film during their flight. In his opinion, that choice might warrant even more examination than the film’s explicit content itself.

At a press conference held on October 8th for the 16th China Jiangbei Water City · Two Rivers Pearl (Liaocheng) Gourd Culture and Arts Festival, Xue Zhaoli, Deputy Minister of the Publicity Department of the Liaocheng Municipal Party Committee, shared some exciting news: “We are committed to deepening the integration of canal cuisine with gourd-themed banquets, enhancing what the gourd cultural festival has to offer.” This year’s festival will showcase the development, promotion, tasting, and display of canal gourd cultural cuisine.

Gourds have a profound cultural significance in China, symbolizing good fortune thanks to their unique shapes and the associated meanings of prosperity and happiness. Xue emphasized that the gourd industry stands out as one of Liaocheng’s representative sectors, covering more than 30,000 acres, commanding 75% of the national market share, and generating an annual comprehensive benefit of 1.6 billion yuan.

Highlighting the artistry involved, Xue pointed out that the Dongchang gourd carving technique has a rich history of over 500 years and has been designated as a “national intangible cultural heritage.” The Dongchangfu District is recognized as the largest hub for gourd trade in the country, earning it the title of “Hometown of Gourd Carving Culture and Arts in China.”

Liu Jiqiang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Dongchangfu District Committee and Vice District Mayor, elaborated on the craftsmanship involved. “Gourd artisans use techniques like bending, tying, and shaping during the gourd’s growth to create artistic items such as teapots, snuff bottles, and decorative lamps. These pieces not only enrich the cultural significance of gourds but also enhance their market value.” He also noted that artisans are blending gourd craftsmanship with local techniques, like paper cutting and dough modeling, allowing for the creation of both functional and artistic items, thereby evolving the gourd industry from traditional craftsmanship to a focus on cultural creativity.

Liu further highlighted that in recent years, the Dongchangfu District has prioritized the protection, inheritance, and innovation of gourd carving, bringing attention to gourd culture. A high-quality Gourd Culture Park has been developed, focusing on immersive experiences that integrate regional culture, culinary elements, and local accommodations. The park aims to become a unique destination for rural customs and leisure tourism. The district has also unveiled tourism routes such as “Fortune and Prosperity Dongchangfu: Gourd Culture Tour” and “Cultural Depth Dongchangfu: Intangible Heritage Inheritance Tour,” allowing visitors to explore gourd planting and processing facilities, and shifting the industry’s growth from a quantity-driven model to one focused on quality.

According to Hu Ruiheng, a member of the Dongchangfu District Government Party Group and Vice District Mayor, a specialized cooperative has been established to ensure a cohesive operation across the gourd supply chain. Currently, Dongchangfu boasts over 4,500 gourd growers and more than 1,500 processing businesses, cultivating over 30 varieties of gourds across 13,000 acres, with growing bases set in Xinjiang, Shaanxi, and Shanxi.

Hu pointed out the district’s active engagement with the rapid development of the internet and e-commerce. “There are over 2,000 gourd e-commerce operators in the area, broadening customer bases and sales channels.” Tangle Village in Tangyi Town, known as “China’s First Gourd Village,” has adopted an “Internet + E-commerce” model, with every household engaged in gourd cultivation and online sales. The village hosts over 300 online stores on platforms such as Taobao, Douyin, and Kuaishou, achieving annual sales of 7 million crafted gourds, with significant markets in Japan, South Korea, the United States, and Southeast Asia.

“Every year from September to October, numerous merchants from other regions come to Dongchangfu to purchase gourd products directly from our markets and production bases,” Hu commented. The district is leveraging its rich resources to innovate its gourd planting, processing, and sales models, driving a transformation in the traditional gourd industry. They aim to strengthen integrated production and sales mechanisms, shaping a green, circular, full industrial chain that encompasses “seed research and development – gourd cultivation – gourd cultural and creative processing – all-ecological tourism.” This initiative seeks to boost the economic potential of the gourd industry while empowering rural revitalization.

The 16th China Jiangbei Water City · Two Rivers Pearl (Liaocheng) Gourd Culture and Arts Festival is scheduled for October 12 to 14. This year’s festival will embrace the theme “Discover the Extraordinary Gourd” and will feature a variety of activities including a National Gourd Exhibition, a Gourd Craft Competition, a Gourd Culture Innovative Design Contest, a Planting Skills Contest, discussions on high-quality industry development, and showcases of canal gourd cultural banquets.

In Tampa, Florida, residents are following evacuation orders as Hurricane Milton approaches, creating a dramatic increase in traffic out of the city. Originally weakened to a Category 4 storm, Milton regained strength and was classified as a Category 5 on the afternoon of October 8, with landfall projected for the Tampa Bay area on the evening of October 9. The state has issued mandatory evacuation orders for 11 counties, impacting around 5.9 million people.

President Biden has made an urgent appeal to those in the storm’s path, stating, “evacuate now,” and underscoring the critical nature of this action as a “matter of life and death.”

This impending storm poses a historic threat to the Tampa Bay area, marking the first direct hit from a significant hurricane since 1921. In light of the hurricane’s approach, airlines, utility companies, and major attractions such as Universal Studios have paused operations to prepare. Orlando International Airport, one of the busiest in the U.S., announced it would stop operations at 8 AM on October 9, while Tampa International Airport closed its doors a day earlier.

Biden described Hurricane Milton as possibly the most severe storm to strike Florida in over a century. After receiving updates from disaster response officials, he revealed that he spoke with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis the previous evening and provided his personal contact information to ensure the state has ample federal support.

Before the hurricane makes landfall, Biden approved an emergency declaration for Florida and urged airlines to prioritize evacuations without excessive fare increases. He stressed the importance of residents following evacuation guidance from state officials. To manage the government’s disaster response, Biden has postponed diplomatic visits to Germany and Angola, originally scheduled for October 10 to 15.

As of the afternoon of October 8, over 2,000 flights had been disrupted, with 1,311 delays and 701 cancellations reported by FlightAware, and these numbers are likely to escalate.

Amid the storm’s approach, local residents began to panic buy, creating long lines at gas stations, many of which quickly ran out of fuel. Energy companies in Tampa have begun shutting down pipelines and fuel distribution centers, with reports confirming that Kinder Morgan’s Central Florida Pipeline system is now closed.

With Hurricane Milton set to make a potentially catastrophic impact, residents in the Tampa Bay area are evacuating, spurred by increasing anxiety. Local officials are working tirelessly to safeguard furniture and appliances, and Craig Fugate, former FEMA head and a veteran of Florida’s emergency management, remarked, “Today is the last day to be prepared.”

It’s worth noting that just weeks ago, Florida’s densely populated west coast experienced severe destruction from Hurricane Helene. After making landfall, Hurricane Milton is anticipated to remain a dangerous storm, capable of inflicting massive damage and extended power outages.

On October 8, the Ministry of Commerce announced the implementation of temporary anti-dumping measures on brandy imported from the European Union. To delve deeper into this matter, we sat down with a spokesperson from the Ministry.

**Interviewer:** We’ve seen the recent announcement about the temporary anti-dumping measures on EU brandy. Can you give us an update on China’s investigations into anti-dumping and countervailing measures concerning pork and dairy products from the EU?

**Spokesperson:** Yes, as per Chinese laws and in alignment with World Trade Organization regulations, we decided on October 8 to enforce temporary anti-dumping measures on specific EU brandy imports. Regarding our ongoing investigations into anti-dumping and countervailing measures related to pork, pork products, and dairy imports from the EU, we are proceeding with these inquiries according to legal protocols. We are dedicated to ensuring that the rights of all parties involved are fully safeguarded and are committed to delivering fair and unbiased conclusions based on our findings. Furthermore, we are considering implementing measures to increase tariffs on imported high-displacement gasoline vehicles. China will take all necessary actions to protect the legitimate rights and interests of our industries and enterprises.

The National Medal and National Honor titles represent the pinnacle of recognition awarded by the government. Recently, during its 11th session, the Standing Committee of the 14th National People’s Congress made a significant decision to bestow these honors in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China. President Xi Jinping approved a decree granting the “Medal of the Republic” to four distinguished individuals, including aerospace expert Wang Yongzhi, while former Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff received the “Friendship Medal.” Additionally, ten other individuals, including Wang Xiaomo, were honored with National Honor titles.

The commemoration of the 75th anniversary is a watershed moment in the political landscape of both the ruling party and the nation. Awarding these national medals and honors plays a vital role in various activities marking this occasion, aiming to recognize those who have made remarkable contributions to the construction and development of the Republic. These accolades are not only intended to celebrate individual achievement but also to encourage people from all walks of life to actively partake in building a prosperous, democratic, and harmonious socialist modern state. Furthermore, they are designed to foster international engagement in our modernization efforts, enhancing global cooperation and contributing to world peace.

Recognizing achievements and honoring contributions are fundamental to national policy. Since the 18th National Congress, under Xi Jinping’s leadership, a unique honor system has been established to promote the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation. This system comprises a broad framework of honors from the party, state, and military, creating a rich tapestry of recognition. The spirit of honoring contributions is essential in cultivating an environment where heroism thrives in this new era.

The initiative to confer national medals and honors communicates a strong societal message about the value of honoring and respecting heroes. This initiative nurtures a positive cultural atmosphere where admiration for virtuous individuals and the pursuit of excellence are encouraged, ultimately strengthening national unity and supporting the party’s goals for development in this new era. The process of selecting and awarding these honors enhances the practical application of the recognition system, reinforcing national pride and collective memory, while promoting the spirit of the nation.

Heroes are truly the brightest symbols of our national identity. Over the last 75 years, people from different ethnic backgrounds, under the party’s strong leadership, have passionately engaged in socialist revolutions, construction, and reform, showcasing remarkable resilience and dedication. This period has given rise to countless heroes and role models who, through their intelligence, hard work, and sacrifice, have shaped extraordinary narratives for the well-being of the nation and its people. Among these honored figures are individuals like Wang Yongzhi, combat hero Huang Zongde, industrial worker Xu Zhenchao, and “cave doctor” Lu Shengmei, who dedicated 50 years to serving underprivileged communities. Their stories and contributions encapsulate the spirit of the Chinese nation and the core values of socialism, leaving an indelible mark on the history of the Republic.

General Secretary Xi Jinping has stated, “Only by cherishing heroes can we produce heroes; only by aspiring to be heroes can we nurture a multitude of heroes.” The inspiring names and poignant stories woven into our journey over the past 75 years encourage the youth of China to embody loyalty, dedication, and simplicity, aligning their personal aspirations with the goals of the party and the nation. In this new phase of our journey, achieving strategic objectives requires both heroes and the spirit of heroism. By looking up to these exemplary figures, we can absorb their heroic spirit and translate it into our daily actions. Together, we can compose a grand symphony for the new era of the People’s Republic and explore broader horizons for our unique path to modernization.

Police are on the lookout for two Asian male suspects connected to a string of burglaries along 8th Avenue, which have increased in frequency in recent weeks. The latest incident took place on October 2nd, when the suspects unlawfully entered an apartment and rummaged through the mailbox, stealing important mail and at least one package. The whole event was recorded on surveillance footage, leading the 72nd Precinct to release a wanted poster and ask for the public’s help in gathering information.

The 72nd Precinct believes these suspects may be repeat offenders tied to several local burglaries. Around 3:57 PM on October 2nd, the suspects, both wearing masks, slipped into a six-story building at 4102 8th Avenue. They took advantage of an empty lobby, prying open the mailbox and making off with several critical letters and at least one package. They exited through the front door and fled in an unknown direction, thankfully leaving no one injured during the crime.

Authorities described the first suspect, who opened the mailbox, as being between 50 and 60 years old. During the crime, he was seen wearing a black baseball cap marked “Flashpoint,” a gray sweater, and gray sneakers. The second suspect, who acted as a lookout, is described as a younger male in his 20s or 30s, dressed in a shirt featuring the phrase “The Cure Boys Don’t Cry,” ripped blue jeans, flip-flops, and black square-framed glasses with silver trim.

Officials have released images of both suspects and are urging anyone with relevant information to step forward. Tips can be provided through the Crime Stoppers hotline at (800) 577-TIPS (8477), by visiting the Crime Stoppers website at www.nypdcrimestoppers.com, texting to 274637 (CRIMES) with TIP577, or by tweeting @NYPDTips. Additionally, anonymous tips can be submitted via the “CS-NYC” mobile app. All information sources will be kept confidential.

In recent years, foreign investment in the hospital sector in China has primarily focused on joint ventures, with a relatively small number of establishments. However, a significant change is underway following a joint announcement from the Ministry of Commerce, the National Health Commission, and the National Medical Products Administration, which aims to expand pilot programs in healthcare. A crucial element of this new policy is the proposal to allow wholly foreign-owned hospitals to set up operations in nine designated areas: Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai, Nanjing, Suzhou, Fuzhou, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hainan Island.

From your perspective, how do foreign-funded hospitals create a different patient experience compared to domestic public hospitals? It’s been a decade since China began promoting foreign hospitals; what transformative changes does this new policy introduce compared to earlier efforts?

To explore these differences, I visited a foreign-funded women’s and children’s hospital in Shanghai. There, I found that patients benefit from dedicated staff members who accompany them during their visits, and doctors conduct consultations lasting at least 30 minutes with each individual. Notably, the attending physician takes full responsibility for patient care, making communication seamless via platforms like WeChat.

In terms of costs, the initial pediatric consultation for respiratory issues is priced at 800 yuan, with follow-up visits costing 500 yuan. Those with commercial insurance may receive partial reimbursements, which is relatively higher than the 300-400 yuan charged at public hospitals for special outpatient services.

The Shanghai facility features a women’s and children’s hospital, three general outpatient departments, and a maternity center, staffed by over 400 healthcare professionals, with roughly 10% having international medical experience. In 2023 alone, the hospital catered to over a million patients.

During my interviews, several common characteristics emerged among existing foreign medical facilities:
1. A commitment to fostering a warm and welcoming environment for patients.
2. A strong focus on service detailed experiences.
3. The implementation of widely accepted international practices, including appointment systems, initial physician responsibility, and established consultation durations.
4. Pricing for self-paid services or commercial insurance reimbursement typically exceeds special consultation fees at public hospitals, with some clinics charging premium rates.

For example, a foreign-invested comprehensive medical institution in Beijing not only displays these features but also benefits from employing esteemed specialists from major hospitals in the city. Patients with serious illnesses often struggle to secure appointments with specialists in public hospitals or face lengthy wait times for procedures.

Examining the evolution of foreign investment policies in China’s healthcare sector highlights a history of gradual change. Attempts to establish wholly foreign-funded hospitals began a decade ago. In 2014, regulations allowed foreign investors to open hospitals in seven provinces and cities, although most investment continued through joint ventures. A significant policy shift occurred in 2015 when the medical sector was classified as restricted in the foreign investment guidance catalog. Yet, in November 2023, the government eased these restrictions, permitting eligible foreign and Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan doctors to establish clinics in Beijing.

According to the National Health Commission, as of 2021, there were 302 foreign-invested medical institutions in China. While this figure seems minimal compared to over 1.07 million healthcare facilities nationwide, the latest policy marks a noteworthy change.

So, what differentiates this policy from earlier ones? Firstly, the expanded scope of openness now encompasses not just major metropolitan areas but additional cities and regions, allowing a broader range of locations to benefit from foreign medical resources. Secondly, the policy is more comprehensive and specific, clearly identifying trial locations and categorizing eligible fields for foreign investment.

From an expert’s point of view, this policy announcement represents a positive progression and could act as a “catalyst effect” within the healthcare industry. Following the announcement, healthcare stocks experienced a notable surge, signaling market optimism.

Dr. Wang Hufeng, Director of the Medical Reform Research Center at Renmin University, pointed out that allowing foreign-owned medical institutions to enter the market enhances ownership diversity and injects new vitality and growth opportunities into the healthcare sector. For patients, this policy expands their options, as various medical institutions showcase different focuses, services, and methodologies to meet diverse healthcare needs.

Given China’s economic growth and aging population, the demand for medical services continues to rise. The World Health Organization estimates that by 2040, roughly 28% of China’s population will be over 60, suggesting a sustained need for healthcare services.

However, the arrival of foreign institutions also raises concerns among domestic healthcare professionals. The competitive landscape in China’s medical market may evolve with the entrance of these entities.

Dr. Liu Guoen, Director of the Global Health Development Institute at Peking University, emphasizes that the influx of foreign hospitals will foster healthy competition among Chinese hospitals—not only between public and private sectors but also in direct comparison with top international facilities. While China is making strides in technology, there is a pressing need to enhance patient-centered services, which can create significant improvement demands.

Nonetheless, some people have additional concerns. There are worries about contrasting management practices and patient treatment habits across countries, which could lead to potential incompatibilities. Some industry insiders also express concern over foreign hospitals attracting talent away from domestic institutions. Questions also linger regarding how foreign hospitals will integrate with existing basic and commercial health insurance frameworks in China.

Experts agree that while the promising aspects of expanding pilot programs are clear, regulatory authorities must enhance oversight to ensure fair competition. Dr. Wang Hufeng highlighted that healthcare institutions will vie for top medical talent to boost service quality, striving to attract more patients and grow market share. Moving forward, policymakers need to consider a range of healthcare scenarios and develop effective, standardized management policies aimed at elevating overall service quality within the industry.

The introduction of foreign hospitals also raises concerns regarding compliance with China’s current food and drug regulatory framework and ethical issues, particularly in areas like embryo implantation and organ cloning. As we prepare for these challenges, how can we proactively devise strategies for approval processes and risk management?

Dr. Liu Guoen reassures that the establishment process for foreign hospitals in China has been carefully considered, including protections for critical genetic and biological information. He insists that these institutions must comply rigorously with Chinese laws and regulations.

Puccini’s one-act opera may be set in the 17th century, but its tragic themes resonate powerfully with today’s realities, asserts Annilese Miskimmon from the English National Opera (ENO).

“Great operas thrive through constant reinvention,” Miskimmon explains. “These masterpieces transcend their original settings as new generations of directors, performers, and musicians breathe new life into them for modern audiences.”

She points out that the push to modernize an opera often stems from a desire to connect with a contemporary world that feels more relatable and vibrant. Conversely, some works that may have caused uproar upon their debut could benefit from a revolutionary reinterpretation, reminding us of their original power to shock. This approach bridges a composer’s initial vision with a future they couldn’t have predicted, highlighting how many were the avant-garde voices of their time. It could be both delightful and disturbing for them to realize they’ve become part of the very artistic establishment they once sought to challenge.

A prime example is Miskimmon’s latest semi-staged production of Puccini’s *Suor Angelica*, performed this week in honor of the composer’s centenary. This production is especially poignant as the opera delves into profound emotional and social turmoil.

Set in a convent, *Suor Angelica* narrates the story of Angelica, a nun who gave birth to an illegitimate child seven years earlier. After her family took her son away, she became a recluse, yearning for news about him. The opera unfolds in real-time over a single evening, revealing the stark reality of Angelica’s life when her aunt arrives with devastating news. Miskimmon captures the emotional depth of this piece, stating, “The opera grapples with the complexities of faith and forgiveness, immersing both singers and audiences in an emotional journey that only opera can evoke.”

Premiering in 1918 as part of *Il Trittico*, Puccini’s *Suor Angelica* was set in the late 17th century to navigate the societal discomfort surrounding its shocking narrative. For decades, critics dismissed it as overly sentimental and melodramatic. However, the ENO is presenting it as a powerful standalone piece, inviting audiences to rediscover its emotional intensity.

Miskimmon highlights that Puccini’s fascination with convent life was personal; his sister served as a Mother Superior in a Tuscan convent. Yet, as we navigate the complexities of 2024, Angelica’s story resonates deeply, especially amid ongoing discussions about historical abuses in Ireland.

“The Irish nation is grappling with the shame surrounding the treatment of over 80,000 unmarried mothers coerced into convent-run institutions from 1922 to 1998,” she shares. “Many were separated from their children at birth, forced to work without pay in Magdalene Laundries, forever severing bonds with their offspring.”

Miskimmon’s own family history intersects with this narrative—her maternal grandmother faced similar societal pressures in the 1930s, resulting in a secret marriage and a desperate struggle for autonomy. “It highlights how many families in Ireland bear scars akin to the tragic story presented in *Suor Angelica*,” she reflects.

She acknowledges that contemporary artists are confronting this national trauma through various mediums, including impactful films and series that address the ramifications of this period. Miskimmon’s reinterpretation of *Suor Angelica*, set in 1960s Ireland, sheds light on real-life stories that mirror Angelica’s fictional plight, amplifying the opera’s emotional landscape.

Interestingly, when Puccini first shared his work with the nuns of his sister’s convent, he witnessed tears in their eyes during the performance. “My experience reflects this sentiment in 2024,” Miskimmon states. “We carry forward the legacy of those who suffered, honoring their stories through art.”

*Suor Angelica* will be presented at the London Coliseum on September 27, with performances at 6 PM and 8:15 PM.

Today marked the second day of the doubles events at the Paris Paralympics table tennis competition. Taiwanese duo Tien Hsiao-Wen and Lin Tzu-Yu, who are competing as the top seeds, faced off against the Turkish pair Merve Demir and Neslihan Kavas in the quarterfinals. With a strong performance, they secured their spot in the semifinals by winning in straight sets with scores of 11-7, 11-6, and 11-8, guaranteeing at least a bronze medal.

After receiving a bye in the round of 16, Tien and Lin entered the quarterfinals ready for a challenge against the fifth-seeded Turkish team. Despite a shaky start where they fell behind early, the Taiwanese players managed to recalibrate and turn the tide in the first game. They won the opening set 11-7, followed by an 11-6 win in the second, putting them in a commanding position.

In the third game, even when they found themselves tied at 8-8, Tien and Lin showed resilience by clinching three consecutive points to secure their victory and a place in the semifinals. Notably, since there is no medal match for third place in table tennis at these games, this victory assures them of at least a bronze. Tien Hsiao-Wen, who earned a bronze medal at the Tokyo Paralympics, will now have the chance to add to her medal collection with consistent performances in two consecutive games.