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

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

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

A Tropical Paradise for Exotic Animals

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

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

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

A World Tour Without Leaving Home

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

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

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

The Ephemeral Nature of Luxury

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

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

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

The Pandemic Spurs Desert Mansion Buying

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here’s how to make it:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In a sincere announcement, the Tuoyo and Dediare families have conveyed the sad news of Mrs. Shayegbe Tuoyo’s passing, affectionately known as “Asatuma Meje.” She was 86 years old at the time of her death.

Mrs. Ete Ambah, speaking on behalf of the families, shared their feelings, stating, “With heartfelt gratitude to God Almighty, we, the Tuoyo and Dediare families, deeply regret to announce the transition of our cherished wife, mother, sister, cousin, aunt, and grandmother, Mrs. Shayegbe Tuoyo ‘Asatuma Meje’ (née Dediare). Born on July 6, 1938, she entered eternal rest on September 1, 2024.

Details regarding the funeral arrangements will be shared with the community at a later date.”

On September 10, in Silicon Valley, Taiwan’s National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) held a press conference led by Chairman Wu Cheng-wen. During the event, Wu emphasized the steadfast collaboration between Taiwan and the U.S. government, irrespective of the upcoming American elections. He pointed out that both the Republican and Democratic parties agree on the critical importance of technological cooperation.

As global competition in technology escalates, Taiwan is actively pursuing academic and industrial partnerships around the world, particularly in the semiconductor and artificial intelligence (AI) sectors. A key highlight of the NSTC’s U.S. visit was the signing of a cooperation agreement with Stanford University, which aims to strengthen ties in semiconductor and AI technology.

Before arriving in the U.S., the NSTC delegation visited the Czech Republic and Germany. In Germany, they engaged in extensive discussions with local academia and facilitated TSMC’s investment in the country, which includes equipment procurement, support services, and addressing talent requirements, effectively laying a strong foundation for future semiconductor research and applications.

While in the U.S., the delegation held detailed discussions with the National Science Foundation in both Washington and Silicon Valley. A central topic was TSMC’s investment and operations in Arizona, with plans to begin mass production by the end of next year. This effort is anticipated to boost the development of related industries in the U.S. and further enhance cooperation in semiconductors and technological security.

In addition, Taiwan and the U.S. have made notable progress in collaborating on AI applications and environmental technology. Both parties understand that the future efficiency of electronic products and the widespread integration of AI are crucial for global technological advancement. By partnering with U.S. academic and industrial sectors, Taiwan aims to elevate its role in semiconductor and AI innovation, contributing to global tech progress.

The NSTC’s agreement with Stanford University is specifically tailored to provide Taiwanese scholars and students with opportunities for advanced studies in the U.S., nurturing a new generation of high-tech talent and bolstering Taiwan’s leading position in global technological innovation.

In response to reporters’ questions, Wu reiterated that Taiwan’s collaboration with the U.S. government would not be impacted by the electoral cycle. He stressed a shared vision of technological cooperation and development among both political parties. Wu also highlighted Taiwan’s commitment to increasing investments across various industries, with the goal of transforming the island from a low-wage manufacturing center into a hub for sovereign AI, intending to encourage overseas students to return to Taiwan after their studies.

This year, during the National Day holiday, Shuangpai County in Yongzhou, Hunan Province, launched a countryside tourism initiative aimed at reconnecting visitors with nature, promoting relaxation, and showcasing local customs. The initiative has attracted an influx of travelers from across the country.

Nestled in the tea tree town of Shuangpai County, Tongi’ao Village is celebrated for its rare ancient ginkgo grove, which features over 3,000 naturally grown ginkgo trees. This village has earned the nickname “China’s Ginkgo Village.” As autumn gives way to winter, the ginkgo leaves cascade down, creating a golden carpet on the ground. The majestic ancient trees blend harmoniously with traditional homes, producing a picturesque scene likened to a “village draped in golden armor.”

At the Tongi’ao scenic area, the centuries-old ginkgo trees are transitioning from green to a vibrant yellow, while fluffy pink muhly grass blossoms beautifully. “The atmosphere is incredible, and it’s a perfect spot for photos,” shared visitor Xia Yuanya.

Tongi’ao is also advancing in celebrating its revolutionary cultural heritage. A patriotic education base has been established, featuring a relief sculpture honoring the Red Sixth Army’s Long March and large memorial sculptures for the historic Battle of the Tiger’s Mouth, among other significant revolutionary sites. The area has organized over 500 events, including Party-building activities and educational trips for local schools, effectively creating a brand that fuses “He” culture, red culture, ginkgo culture, and agricultural culture.

During the National Day holiday, the Huaiqian Valley and Moon Lake scenic area in Shuangpai offered a series of engaging activities, including fishing competitions and duck-catching contests, as well as an interactive rainbow runway. Additionally, more visitors are setting up tents on Yuntai Mountain, located just a few kilometers from the county seat.

“The area is surrounded by mountains and valleys, with considerable temperature variations between day and night that lead to frequent cloud sea phenomena. This allure draws many camping enthusiasts eager to experience the romantic sunrise over the clouds,” noted the scenic area manager.

With its remarkable ecology, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Shuangpai County has become a unique tourist destination. In recent years, the county has steadily developed its tourism projects, improved management practices, actively built a tourism brand, and expanded its tourism industry chain, boosting tourism consumption and fostering the high-quality development of cultural and tourism integration.

Boasting a forest cover rate of 80.5%, Shuangpai ranks first in Hunan for per capita forested land and has a wetland protection rate of 94.36%, the highest in Yongzhou. The county has received numerous accolades, including “China’s Natural Oxygen Bar,” “Top Ten National Ecological Leisure and Tourism Cities,” and “China’s Most Beautiful Ecological Health Tour Destination.”

The local government is focused on enhancing its cultural tourism offerings by developing key attractions. The Yameishan Scenic Area is earmarked as the leading tourism site, while enhancements are planned for Tongi’ao, Huaiqian Valley, Qinglong Cave, and Yuntai Mountain. Supported by seven towns, these efforts aim to create provincial-level star-rated rural tourism areas, driving comprehensive regional tourism development.

Since launching the first China Yangming Mountain “He” Culture Tourism Festival and the Azalea Festival in 2006, Shuangpai has also harnessed its “He” cultural resources. This annual event has developed into a quest for the essence of “He,” inviting contributions from around the globe. As of November last year, the festival has held 14 successful editions and gathered over 7,000 contributions from public figures, attracting numerous enthusiasts of “He” culture and calligraphy eager to engage.

With initiatives strengthening its cultural and tourism framework, Shuangpai County is achieving a dual focus on tourism in both the eastern and central regions. The rapid growth of the cultural and tourism industry is weaving an intricate tapestry of experiences across Shuangpai.

In a recent discussion, Kayode Tokede from the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc expressed gratitude towards the German Government and its development finance institution, the Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft (DEG), a subsidiary of KfW Bank, for their steadfast commitment to promoting impact investing in Nigeria. As NGX Group aims to strengthen partnerships that foster sustainable development with a focus on climate action, the significance of DEG’s contributions is highlighted.

During the DEG Impact Investing Dialogue held yesterday, Mr. Temi Popoola, the Group Managing Director and CEO of NGX Group, emphasized DEG’s influence on sustainable finance in Nigeria and its role in enhancing confidence in the national economy. “DEG, along with its partners in the German private sector, has demonstrated unwavering dedication to Nigeria. They haven’t just kept their investments intact; they’ve also expanded them through local financial institutions,” he remarked.

Popoola also elaborated on a collaborative initiative between NGX Group and DEG designed to create a framework for sharing and aggregating data related to carbon emissions and Nigeria’s broader green transition. This initiative aims to bring together corporate organizations across the country, improving transparency and guiding them towards sustainable practices that align with globally accepted standards.

He underscored that this partnership will facilitate efficient collection and sharing of carbon emissions data while bolstering Nigeria’s overall green initiatives. “Our collaborative efforts will not only enhance corporate transparency but also ensure adherence to global sustainability standards, ultimately positioning Nigeria as a leader in sustainable finance across Africa,” Popoola asserted.

In a recent interview, Stephen Tung shared insights about his role in the upcoming film “Stuntman,” where he plays a former director and stuntman from the 1980s who grapples with the challenges of today’s action film industry, which is currently experiencing an identity crisis.

Tung describes “Stuntman” as a project that resonates deeply with die-hard fans of Hong Kong cinema, though it might leave casual viewers wanting more. “This film is more than just an action-drama; it’s a self-referential narrative that delves into the development of the Hong Kong film industry,” he explains. The story kicks off with a charming scene set in the 1980s, cleverly mimicking the zooms and editing styles characteristic of classic fight films from that era, revealing that it’s actually a behind-the-scenes look at a film being shot during that time.

The character, Sam Lee, is initially brought to life by Lam Yiu Sing in the 80s and later by Tung himself. Sam’s life takes a tragic turn after a complicated stunt results in a life-altering accident that leaves him in a wheelchair. Fast forward to the present, and we find Sam living away from the glitz of the movie world; he’s now involved in traditional Chinese medicine and has become estranged from his daughter, Cherry, played by Cecilia Choi. Cherry, caught up in her own life as a potter preparing for her wedding, struggles to reconnect with her father.

As the story unfolds, an old friend encourages Sam to return to directing, this time overseeing stunts for a new film. This opportunity rekindles his passion for filmmaking and thrusts him back into the spotlight. Alongside him is Long, portrayed by Terrance Lau, an aspiring stuntman working in logistics for his brother. Long impresses Sam with his determination, ultimately finding his place on the set and inspiring those around him.

The film is filled with poignant reflections on the spirit of Hong Kong and features nostalgic dialogues that pay tribute to the city’s cinematic legacy. Tung emphasizes that “Stuntman” carefully navigates historical sentiments in light of the current political climate. The stunts are exhilarating and vividly depicted, while the film’s sentimental elements and focus on traditional family values may resonate well with the authorities.

“Stuntman” is scheduled to be released in cinemas across the UK and Ireland on October 11.

We’re excited to invite your questions about domestic gas and electricity use, which we plan to present to our panel of experts. Have you ever considered which is more cost-effective – taking a bath or a shower? Or whether running a dehumidifier costs less than a tumble dryer?

Whatever your inquiries about energy consumption may be, we encourage you to share them with us below. We’ll compile the most compelling questions and present them to our experts for insightful answers that we will publish.

You can easily submit your questions through the form provided. We can’t wait to hear your thoughts!

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