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**Interview with Health Experts: Is It Safe for Families to Share Toothpaste?**

In a recent interview with health professionals, we delved into a question that’s on the minds of many families: Is it safe for everyone under one roof to share a single tube of toothpaste?

Dr. Gao Xuemai, a chief physician at Peking University’s Dental Hospital, offered her perspective on this important issue. “If families decide to share toothpaste, it’s essential to keep the areas where the toothpaste comes into contact with toothbrushes clean,” Dr. Gao recommended.

She went on to stress that if any family member is dealing with oral or gastrointestinal issues, it’s advisable to steer clear of sharing toothpaste altogether. “Using individual toothpaste tubes can help prevent the spread of harmful bacteria that may be present in the mouth or gut, which could easily be transferred through a shared tube,” she warned.

This guidance aligns with the broader objective of fostering healthier practices within families and mitigating potential health risks.

The discussion was organized by the Health Report’s Fact-Checking Team in collaboration with experts from the National Health Science Popularization Expert Database.

For families aiming to enhance their hygiene and health, Dr. Gao’s insights are invaluable. By considering each person’s dental health, families can more effectively prevent disease transmission in their homes.

Can you tell me why you’re unable to assist with that?

On a thrilling Tuesday night, the San Diego Padres clinched a spot in the postseason with a 4-2 victory over the NL West-leading Los Angeles Dodgers, highlighted by an incredible game-ending triple play initiated by Manny Machado.

The Padres, who are currently riding a hot streak, are now just two games behind the Dodgers as they enter the final stretch of the regular season, with only five games left to play. Jake Cronenworth made a significant impact early in the game by hitting a two-run homer, contributing to a remarkable run that includes four straight wins and nine victories in their last ten outings.

As the ninth inning progressed, the Dodgers managed to score once and had runners on first and second. That’s when Miguel Rojas hit a sharp grounder to Machado at third base, setting the stage for an extraordinary triple play. Machado stepped on the bag and quickly executed the play, sealing both the game and the Padres’ playoff berth.

Although there was a brief delay as the Dodgers challenged the out call at second base, the decision stood after a replay review. This led to a wave of excitement from San Diego fans, who created a playoff-like atmosphere with 50,369 attendees.

San Diego now holds the tiebreaker against the Dodgers, sporting an impressive 8-3 record in their head-to-head meetings. Meanwhile, the Dodgers have a magic number of four to secure the division title.

The Padres scored all four of their runs with two outs, and Cronenworth’s performance was especially noteworthy after a quiet September without RBIs. Xander Bogaerts also made a contribution with an RBI single and solid defense, although he had a costly throwing error that allowed Shohei Ohtani to score in the first inning.

Starting pitcher Michael King delivered a solid performance for the Padres, allowing just one unearned run while striking out three over five innings. In contrast, Dodgers rookie starter Landon Knack struggled, surrendering four runs in four innings and showing inconsistency, needing 39 pitches to navigate the fourth inning alone.

As the Padres seek to maintain their momentum in this crucial series, the atmosphere is electric, with players and fans alike buzzing with excitement about what lies ahead in the postseason.

Interviewer: I recently started a new job, and my colleagues often invite me to dinners and outings that can be quite expensive. I’m finding it hard to keep up with the costs. How can I politely decline these invitations without hurting anyone’s feelings?

Expert: With so many social invitations coming your way, it’s essential to assess your relationship with the host, the overall expense of the event, and whether you can attend without straining your finances.

Attending celebrations for milestones in friends’ and family’s lives is a wonderful and memorable experience. However, the financial burden associated with these social activities can sometimes be overwhelming.

If your budget doesn’t allow for discretionary spending on such social events, it’s important to find a polite way to decline the invitations.

Here are some strategies that can help you gracefully say no while avoiding unnecessary debt:

First, clarify what’s most important for you and your family.

Social invitations can include weddings, sweet 16 parties, anniversaries, retirement parties, bar mitzvahs, and special birthday celebrations. Diane Gottsman, an etiquette expert from the Protocol School of Texas, notes that declining an invitation to spend time with someone special might make them uncomfortable, but it’s crucial to prioritize what benefits you and your family’s financial situation.

According to Gottsman, factors to consider when declining social invitations generally include your financial status, your ability to take time off work, and the costs associated with weddings, such as travel, lodging, and other expenses.

Second, itemize the costs and estimate the total.

Michael Liersch, a consultant and planning expert at Wells Fargo, recommends considering expenses like travel, accommodations, food, and gifts to gauge the overall cost of attending the event. Hotel rooms and flights can run into thousands of dollars, especially if the invitation includes a spouse or immediate family.

Once you identify all the costs associated with the event, add them up to see if it fits within your budget before making a decision.

Third, ask yourself: Can I afford this?

Only you can accurately assess whether you have the financial capacity to attend, so it’s crucial to be honest with yourself.

Liersch suggests thinking long-term: if you can’t afford to attend now, will your financial situation improve or worsen in the future? If the answer is “worse,” it’s better to consider declining the invitation as soon as possible.

Remember, ensuring your financial stability should be your top priority. Blanca Cobb, a behavioral analyst, advises that if you would need to max out your credit card or dip into your rent money just to attend, you likely shouldn’t go. Putting yourself into debt for social engagements can limit your options in emergencies and may mean you can’t cover essential expenses later.

Fourth, politely and decisively decline.

If you must refuse an invitation, Gottsman suggests doing it “promptly” and using sincere language, such as, “I really appreciate your invitation, but I’m sorry, I can’t make it. I wish you all the best.” Alternatively, you might say, “I’m thrilled for both of you, but unfortunately, attending conflicts with my current situation.”

Gottsman points out that there’s no need to provide extensive explanations unless the person is a close family member who asks for more details.

Liersch adds that people often wait until the last minute to decline because they fear judgment or awkwardness. However, indicating you might attend or failing to respond in order to avoid hurting someone’s feelings can lead to greater discomfort later.

Fifth, be prepared for possible backlash.

Even a quick and polite decline can provoke negative responses. Gottsman reassures that most people will understand as long as you are confident that your decision serves your best interests.

If declining the invitation strains a friendship, it’s worth considering how future conflicts might unfold.

Sixth, consider sending a gift.

Gifts can convey goodwill when you can’t attend in person. Gottsman suggests choosing something from the couple’s registry if it’s a wedding.

Seventh, don’t be too hard on yourself.

Gottsman emphasizes that it’s not wrong to decline invitations that conflict with your schedule or budget. Friends and family will appreciate your honesty; living your life in a sustainable and purposeful way is what truly matters, so embrace that mindset.

For those who dislike Trump, his rallies can feel like a scene straight out of a chaotic spectacle, with some even drawing parallels to Nazi gatherings from the 1930s.

It’s important to note that while Trump and his team have their fair share of issues, many of his dedicated supporters often lack the necessary rational perspective. However, both inside and outside the rally venues, there are individuals capable of critical thinking. A significant portion of the crowd falls somewhere between madness and reason, seeking what feels like a safe space to hear messages that resonate with them and provide emotional relief from their daily lives. This kind of fandom mirrors the enthusiasm seen at a Taylor Swift concert, where the distinction may not be as pronounced as one might think.

Moreover, from a practical standpoint in New York, despite the fervor of these supporters, it is unlikely to make a substantial impact in the upcoming election. Perhaps the more pressing issue is not how many fans Trump attracts but rather when our elections, as a serious political engagement, will refocus on meaningful policy discussions.

For the Republican Party, there’s a need to clarify their own policies, especially regarding social security and their stance on abortion which affects female voters. Furthermore, to uphold America’s position and the order of the free world, should they not compel their candidates to explicitly support Ukraine’s success?

On the Democratic side, as they seek re-election, there’s a pressing need to address issues like border security, inflation, and urban crime with credible solutions that can instill some confidence in voters—at least to show them there’s substance behind the promises.

Since Trump rose to power through populist sentiments, the past three elections have devolved into referendums on him, creating a murky political climate and a deeply fractured society. However, time will inevitably move Trump off the historical stage. The real concern is whether the parties, having grown accustomed to this low-level of political discourse, will still be capable of proposing constructive agendas by then. This remains the most troubling aspect of our current political trajectory.

As part of the ongoing research effort focusing on the interactions between land and atmosphere on the “Roof of the World,” an aerial observation experiment measuring water, heat, and carbon fluxes in the Mount Everest region commenced on August 1 and was successfully completed after a month. This experiment is a significant component of China’s second comprehensive scientific investigation of the Tibetan Plateau and has garnered considerable attention.

What exactly do we mean by land-atmosphere interactions? Why is it necessary to conduct such research in this high-altitude region? And how does this study serve to benefit not only China but also the world at large? To delve into these questions, we conducted an exclusive interview with Dr. Jia Li, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Aerospace Information Innovation, who leads the research team for this experiment.

**Journalist:** Dr. Jia, your research team is currently conducting a study in the Everest region. Could you explain what land-atmosphere interaction is and its relationship to weather?

**Dr. Jia:** The full title of our project is “Integrated Observation Experiment of Complex Land-Atmosphere Interactions in the Cold Environments of the Everest Region on the Tibetan Plateau,” marking the first time scientists are using aerial platforms to gather observational data on water, heat, and carbon fluxes in this area.

When people hear “land-atmosphere,” they might think of whether someone’s approach is practical or relatable. However, in geoscience, “land” refers to the Earth’s surface, while “atmosphere” pertains to the layer of gases surrounding it. Thus, “land-atmosphere” encompasses two geographical domains: the Earth’s surface and its atmosphere.

Land-atmosphere interaction generally refers to the physical processes through which the surface and the atmosphere influence each other. Changes occurring on the ground can affect the atmosphere, and vice versa. This interaction plays a critical role in shaping the climate characteristics of the Earth system, significantly impacting issues like climate change.

Weather, on the other hand, pertains to the various atmospheric phenomena occurring over shorter time scales, including temperature variations and precipitation events.

**Journalist:** The Tibetan Plateau is often referred to as the “Roof of the World” and the “Third Pole.” Why is it crucial to conduct land-atmosphere interaction research in this area? What are the main scientific goals of this experiment?

**Dr. Jia:** It’s well-known that the Tibetan Plateau is the highest plateau on Earth, with a significant heating effect on the atmosphere, which then influences mid-latitude atmospheric circulation in the Northern Hemisphere. The exchange of materials and energy at the surface not only impacts the climate of the plateau and its surrounding areas but also has the potential to affect global climate through complex feedback mechanisms.

Our experimental area is located on the northern side of Everest, at an average elevation of about 4,200 meters. The land-atmosphere interactions here are not confined to the local environment; they can influence global climate patterns through atmospheric circulation. Conversely, global climate change can affect conditions on the Tibetan Plateau, such as accelerating glacier melt in the Himalayas.

The Tibetan Plateau is also aptly referred to as “Asia’s Water Tower.” We chose to conduct this experiment in July and August when the Asian monsoon brings abundant rainfall, coupled with melting snow, which leads to high soil moisture content. With strong solar radiation during the summer, the region experiences peak evaporation, significantly altering atmospheric convection and circulation. One of our objectives is to observe how energy and moisture exchanges at the surface influence atmospheric conditions.

However, the complex terrain of the Everest region means that localized ground-based observations are insufficient to capture the broader patterns of land-atmosphere water and heat exchanges. Therefore, our experiment utilizes drone platforms for extensive observational studies, combining ground stations and satellite remote sensing to create comprehensive data sets. Our aim is to understand the characteristics of land-atmosphere interactions under the unique climatic conditions and complex surface characteristics of Everest, focusing particularly on moisture cycles and the exchange of materials and energy.

**Journalist:** How do land-atmosphere interactions differ between the high-altitude “Roof of the World” and lower-elevation areas? What is the nature of their influence on one another?

**Dr. Jia:** There are significant differences between land-atmosphere interactions in high-altitude areas like the Tibetan Plateau and those in lower-elevation regions. Generally, interactions in high-altitude locales are more intense, as they absorb substantial solar radiation, which leads to strong convection. When there is moisture available on the surface, this can result in significant vapor transport from the land to the atmosphere. These vigorous, rapidly changing interactions contribute to dramatic weather patterns on the Tibetan Plateau — sometimes described as experiencing “four seasons in a single day” — in contrast to the clearly defined seasonal changes typically seen in low-elevation areas.

The heat and moisture generated by land-atmosphere interactions on the Tibetan Plateau can have cascading effects on lower-elevation regions through atmospheric circulation. However, this complex process impacts different areas and geographic conditions to varying degrees. For instance, heavy rainfall and flooding in the Yangtze River Basin may have links to the land-atmosphere interactions occurring in the Tibetan Plateau.

**Journalist:** Given that humanity has only one Earth and only one “Roof of the World,” how do studies of land-atmosphere interactions in the Everest region serve both China and the global community? How can international collaboration in this field be strengthened?

**Dr. Jia:** Due to the crucial role the Tibetan Plateau plays in the global climate system, China has placed high importance on researching land-atmosphere interactions in the region. We have established numerous ground observation stations on the plateau and are also utilizing satellite observations and model simulations to conduct large-scale studies. During the recent second comprehensive scientific expedition to the Tibetan Plateau, we made further enhancements to our observational networks.

Researching land-atmosphere interactions on the Tibetan Plateau helps us understand its climate patterns and responses to climate change, thereby providing valuable insights for both China and the world in formulating scientific strategies for addressing climate challenges. It contributes to global efforts in managing water resources and protecting ecosystems, aiding sustainable development worldwide.

Historically, the Chinese scientific community has prioritized international collaboration, engaging in various cooperative endeavors with foreign research institutions and universities, including those from neighboring countries. These collaborations span multiple disciplines beyond land-atmosphere interaction research, such as ecology, environmental science, and glaciology, all aimed at comprehensively understanding the physical processes at play on the Tibetan Plateau and their implications for global climate.

Looking forward, I advocate for enhanced data sharing and collaborative research among scientists worldwide, as well as improvements to related models to bolster our predictive capabilities regarding climate change trends and impacts. I hope that international cooperation on climate change can be aligned with global sustainable development goals, promoting a comprehensive approach to economic, social, and environmental sustainability in tackling shared global challenges.

**Journalist:** In 2023, a team of Chinese scientists donated seven “Global Water Resource Data Products (2023 Edition)” to the United Nations, with two of these sets developed by your team. What are your plans for future product development?

**Dr. Jia:** In March 2023, during the UN 2023 Water Conference in New York, CAS Academician Guo Huadong, who serves as the Director of the International Research Center for Sustainable Development Big Data, presented the “Global Water Resource Data Products (2023 Edition)” to the UN. This effort aims to share our expertise and experiences in the domain of water resources for global sustainable development, with two of the data sets being our team’s contributions — namely, the “Global Land Surface Evapotranspiration Product” and the “Global Agricultural Water Use Efficiency Product.”

Evapotranspiration encompasses the water flow between the surface and the atmosphere, serving as a key process in terrestrial water and carbon cycles. Accurately estimating evapotranspiration is crucial not only for understanding the Earth system and global climate change but also for practical applications in effective water resource development, crop water management, drought monitoring, and weather forecasting. Over the past decade, our team has developed a proprietary remote sensing model that offers high-accuracy evapotranspiration data products at various spatial and temporal resolutions. We intend to utilize this data to monitor the progress toward achieving the UN’s sustainable development goals. Recently, our evapotranspiration data product was also incorporated and published on the Food and Agriculture Organization’s data platform, broadening its potential applications.

**Journalist:** Agriculture is a significant consumer of water. With total water resources being limited and the demand for water rising, enhancing agricultural water use efficiency is one important strategy for addressing water scarcity. How can the “Global Agricultural Water Use Efficiency Product” aid in sustainable agricultural development?

**Dr. Jia:** The “Global Agricultural Water Use Efficiency Product” provides insights into the distribution and variability of water use efficiency in agriculture, helping to promote more efficient water utilization and support sustainable agricultural practices.

Our long-term research focus has been on land surface evapotranspiration and ecosystem water use efficiency. In the future, we will continue to refine and enhance these two products, making regular updates via data-sharing platforms such as the Earth Big Data Science Engineering and the FAO’s data sharing systems, thereby expanding their availability and accessibility globally.

**Journalist:** In 2019, you were appointed to the International Committee on Hydrometeorology of the Global Energy and Water Cycle Experiment (GEWEX) and will serve on the Scientific Steering Committee from 2024. How do you plan to use this platform to advance international and cross-disciplinary academic exchanges and cooperation?

**Dr. Jia:** The Global Energy and Water Cycle Experiment (GEWEX) is a core initiative of the World Climate Research Program and has become a prominent scientific research program since its inception in 1990.

During my tenure on the GEWEX committees, I aim to leverage my expertise in land-atmosphere interactions and satellite remote sensing applications to contribute positively to the program’s development. I also hope to encourage Chinese scientists’ participation in GEWEX activities and projects, fostering collaborations with leading international scientists.

Our team’s current experiment in the Everest region, focusing on water, heat, and carbon fluxes, aligns closely with the 2023-2032 scientific objectives set forth by GEWEX. For instance, GEWEX emphasizes understanding the roles of land-atmosphere interactions across various spatial and temporal scales in the water, energy, and carbon balance. One of the pressing questions we are addressing is the extent to which local surface-atmosphere interactions condition the characteristics of the atmospheric boundary layer.

Moreover, scientists abroad are conducting similar land-atmosphere interaction studies in other high-altitude locales, such as the Alps and Andes. We are eager for opportunities to engage in comparative research with these international teams.

**Interviewee Profile:**
Dr. Jia Li is a secondary researcher at the Institute of Aerospace Information Innovation of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, as well as a doctoral advisor and a key researcher at the Academy. His research focuses on water cycles, groundwater remote sensing, and global change. He was elected to the Hydrometeorology Committee of the Global Energy and Water Cycle Experiment in 2019 and is set to join the Scientific Steering Committee in 2024. He also chairs the Dryland Monitoring and Assessment Working Group of the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization and leads the water resources working group of the “Digital Silk Road” International Science Program. Additionally, he serves as an associate editor for the journal Remote Sensing and is on the editorial boards of several domestic and international scientific journals. Dr. Jia has led or participated in over 40 scientific projects from agencies such as the Ministry of Science and Technology, the National Natural Science Foundation of China, and the European Union’s Framework Program, and has published over 190 academic papers in various journals.

**Ederson Demonstrates His Value to Manchester City Amid Transfer Speculation**

In a recent match against Fulham, Ederson made a strong case for his importance to Manchester City, delivering crucial saves, particularly against Adama Traoré. Coach Pep Guardiola addressed the summer transfer rumors linking Ederson to Saudi clubs, clarifying that no concrete offers were ever made. “He knew from day one that I didn’t want it, and we didn’t want it,” Guardiola explained. “But the real offer never materialized. For a keeper who has been instrumental in a team that won four consecutive Premier League titles, there’s a price and a value.” He praised Ederson for refocusing amid the uncertainty, noting, “He’s incredibly strong; he just states, ‘I’m here, and I’m going to give my best.'” Additionally, the arrival of Stefan Ortega has fostered healthy competition within the squad. Guardiola remarked, “Sometimes Ederson needs to feel that he has to perform well; otherwise, Stefan can step in. This respect and competition only make our team better.”

**Manchester United Struggles to Find Their Rhythm**

The ongoing conversation about Erik ten Hag’s future has intensified following Manchester United’s disappointing draw against Aston Villa, marked by missed chances from both teams. Bruno Fernandes came close with a free-kick that struck the bar, while Diogo Dalot prevented Jaden Philogene from scoring a potential last-minute winner. After the match, Ten Hag looked for silver linings but acknowledged the looming shadow of mediocrity over the club. With several high-profile players sidelined, the contrast underscored previous financial decisions. Ten Hag emphasized the importance of trusting his players, saying, “One day it will click,” while recognizing that time is of the essence.

**Southampton Faces a Critical Stretch**

Despite back-to-back losses by the same scoreline, Southampton manager Russell Martin expressed more satisfaction with his team’s performance against Arsenal compared to their earlier match against Bournemouth. Cameron Archer initially kindled hopes for an upset, but the defense ultimately faltered. Looking ahead to pivotal matches against Leicester and Everton, along with challenges against Manchester City and Wolves, Martin stressed the urgency for improvement, stating, “The games that define us are coming up. We need to do better in those matches.”

**Chelsea Unfazed by Suspension Issues**

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca is unperturbed by the suspension of two players, Wesley Fofana and Marc Cucurella, who have each received five bookings this season. With both sidelined for the upcoming Liverpool match, Maresca is optimistic about his squad’s depth, saying, “We have an international break to prepare, and we will utilize players who weren’t in the starting XI.”

**Danny Welbeck Leads Brighton to Victory**

Reflecting on his journey since joining Brighton four years ago, 34-year-old Danny Welbeck has become an integral part of the squad. While he hasn’t been England’s go-to striker, his unique skill set and experience are invaluable. Welbeck’s intelligent play was pivotal in Brighton’s comeback against Spurs, scoring the decisive goal. His leadership, bolstered by encouragement from seasoned teammates, galvanized the team in the second half.

**Jordan Pickford Silences Critics at Everton**

At Goodison Park, Jordan Pickford faced the typical jeers from Newcastle fans but rose to the occasion, securing his first Premier League clean sheet of the season. Despite facing criticism, he remained focused, stating, “I just crack on with my game. I’ve learned from the past, stay focused, and aim to do my best for the badge.” His standout moment came when he saved a penalty from former teammate Anthony Gordon, showcasing clear improvement in his commanding presence between the posts.

**Liverpool Under Arne Slot: A Work in Progress**

Under Arne Slot’s management, Liverpool is already displaying signs of improvement. Virgil van Dijk seems to be regaining his form, and Ryan Gravenberch is being compared to legendary players for his playing style. However, Slot admitted that the upcoming challenges against top teams may require a quicker tempo, as their current performances might not stack up against stronger opponents.

**West Ham Explodes with Offensive Power**

West Ham’s 4-1 victory over Ipswich marked a turning point for the team, which finally found its attacking rhythm after a slow start to the season. With four players, including Michail Antonio and Jarrod Bowen, getting on the scoresheet, the Hammers showcased the entertaining style that fans have longed for after experiencing tactical rigidity last season.

**Steve Cooper Celebrates Milestone Win at Leicester**

After his first league win of the season, Leicester City’s Steve Cooper kept celebrations low-key, emphasizing the need for ongoing progress and building trust within the squad. “I have a lot of work to do to connect with this team and establish ourselves as a real force,” he remarked after the narrow victory over Bournemouth.

**Gary O’Neil Faces Increasing Pressure at Wolves**

Wolves endured a demoralizing defeat to Brentford, leading to rising discontent among fans regarding manager Gary O’Neil. With defensive cohesion lacking and no clean sheets since February, O’Neil’s job appears increasingly precarious, and he candidly acknowledged, “At some point, someone will tell me to stop, and I will stop.”

In a recent interview, Shine, the proud owner of a standout Toyota GT86 that mirrors the look of a Taiwanese taxi, shared the backstory of his eye-catching vehicle that has piqued interest across Los Angeles. His car, brilliantly painted bright yellow, features a classic taxi roof light and showcases the logo along with the iconic “55688” taxi number from Taiwan. Shine’s striking modifications have caught the eye of local Taiwanese communities and sparked engaging discussions online.

Shine’s car photos have taken social media by storm, generating an overwhelming response with comments and shares flooding in. Many users have praised the design, especially the license plate reading “DaLanPa,” which humorously references a Taiwanese slang term for male anatomy, leaving Taiwanese viewers in stitches. “I wanted something unique,” Shine explained. “While a lot of GT86 owners lean towards designs inspired by the car in ‘Initial D,’ I was hoping for something that stood out more.”

About two years ago, he started transforming his vehicle, swapping its original white finish for the classic yellow reminiscent of Taiwanese taxis. Shine even brought back the taxi roof light from Taiwan, joking that it accounted for about a third of his luggage during his trip. After completing the changes, he shared the car’s design concepts with some of his colleagues, taking the opportunity to explain the cultural significance behind Taiwan’s “little yellow” taxis. Although his colleagues weren’t familiar with the Taiwanese taxi scene, they were impressed by the vibrant yellow color and unique design, even teasing him about potentially working as a taxi driver in Los Angeles. Shine humorously clarified that his modifications were merely for enjoyment, not for starting a taxi business. He even recounted a funny moment when his mother visited and briefly thought he was driving a taxi part-time.

As for the playful license plate “DaLanPa,” Shine revealed it was a product of a whimsical moment after a night out with friends. While casually browsing the California DMV website tipsy, he struck upon the idea of applying for the funny plate. “It was a spontaneous decision for a laugh, and when it got approved, it became a defining feature of my GT86,” he said. “This plate hits home particularly well with Taiwanese folks, adding an interesting layer to the car’s personality, even if it was an accidental choice.”

Looking to the future, Shine expressed his desire to share more stories about his car on social media and is considering incorporating additional Taiwanese elements, like symbols of the deity San Tai Zi. “For me, these modifications are purely for fun; they don’t carry any profound significance,” he noted. He stressed that age shouldn’t dictate one’s interests. “No matter what car you drive or how you choose to live your life, what truly matters is your happiness and making choices that resonate with you, as long as they’re legal.”

Norwegian Princess Martha Louise and her fiancé, Durek Verrett, are igniting the celebration with a grand three-day wedding event that commenced on August 29. They are set to exchange vows in a private ceremony on August 31, drawing significant public attention not just for their love story but also for Martha Louise’s intriguing claims of psychic prowess and Verrett’s role as an African American shaman.

The festivities are unfolding at the luxurious Hotel Union Geiranger, nestled in the breathtaking Geirangerfjord of Norway. Guests are making an adventurous three-hour boat journey to the scenic venue, ensuring a stunning backdrop for this momentous occasion. Day two of the celebration will feature performances from well-known American artists, including The Black Eyed Peas and Stevie Wonder, adding an extra layer of excitement before the couple ties the knot in a more intimate setting on the final day.

In a bid to maintain privacy, Norwegian media has reported that attendees are asked to refrain from using mobile phones or cameras during the festivities and to avoid sharing any related content on social media.

Princess Martha Louise, 52, and Durek Verrett, 49, first shared news of their engagement in 2022, which sparked a wave of conversation, largely due to Verrett’s self-identification as a “sixth-generation shaman” along with some of his more controversial views on health and wellness. In the wake of their engagement, Martha Louise made the decision to step down from her official royal duties.

Previously a professional equestrian, Martha Louise, who divorced her husband in 2017, is the mother of three daughters. This marks her second marriage, and she has been open about her belief in her “clairvoyant” abilities, revealing a deep interest in the spiritual world and claiming a special connection with animals and angels.

In a recent interview in Abuja, Kuni Tyessiin outlined the collaborative efforts of the Youth-led Electoral Reform Project (YERP-Naija) and Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI), alongside youth and multi-stakeholder groups from all 36 states. Their focus is to assist the National Assembly in tackling the key priorities of Nigerians, particularly in relation to electoral reform.

Tyessiin revealed that they have submitted a comprehensive list of the top five priorities for youth electoral reform. These include the establishment of an Electoral Offences Commission, facilitating resolutions for post-election petitions, ensuring timely transmission of election results, reforming the leadership selection process of INEC (the Independent National Electoral Commission), and amending provisions related to continuous voter registration.

He emphasized that the recommendations made to the National Assembly Committees on constitutional review and electoral matters are aimed at enhancing the independence, neutrality, and efficiency of INEC. Additionally, these recommendations address the adjudication process for election petitions, the prosecution of electoral offenses, candidate qualifications, and the reinforcement of political party ideologies through expert reviews and discussions.

During the briefing, Bukola Idowu, Executive Director of KDI, pointed out findings from a nationwide survey revealing that 57 percent of the 4,324 respondents were dissatisfied with the electoral process during the 2023 elections. Furthermore, a striking 94 percent highlighted the urgent need for constitutional and legal reforms to improve the electoral system.

Tyessiin explained that based on this feedback, they distilled a total of 87 recommendations into 35 prioritized proposals, which were later refined down to 13 key recommendations for constitutional amendments during a National Multi-Stakeholder Forum.

Looking ahead, he indicated that KDI, along with its regional partners, plans to launch a youth-led electoral reform advocacy campaign in early 2024. The goal of this initiative is to amplify the voices of young Nigerians in the national conversation on electoral reforms. They aim to gather insights from youth across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to define their electoral reform priorities based on their experiences from the 2023 elections.

“Our survey indicated that 57 percent of respondents were unhappy with the recent electoral process, while 94 percent emphasized the urgent need for reforms,” Tyessiin stated. “We held 12 youth forums that brought together over 400 young people, including leaders from political party youth wings, socio-cultural organizations, transportation unions, entrepreneurs, and other previously marginalized groups to discuss electoral reform.”

He concluded with a strong call to action: “As the National Assembly embarks on this crucial legislative session, we urge them to prioritize the top five electoral reform recommendations from the youth and take swift action to amend the Electoral Act of 2022 and the Constitution.”