It’s well past the August holiday peak, yet the anger directed at over-tourism in Spain is not fading, as vacationers continue to flock to warmer spots during the winter months. On Sunday, residents of San Sebastian in the Basque Country are set to take to the streets, rallying under the slogan: “We are in danger; degrow tourism!” Meanwhile, in November, anti-tourism activists are expected to gather in Seville.
Just last Sunday, thousands participated in protests in the Canary Islands, indicating that this issue is far from resolved. This year appears to be a turning point in how tourism is viewed in Spain and across many parts of Europe. The post-Covid travel boom has not only returned but is also pushing industry numbers to exceed pre-pandemic records. By the end of this year, Spain is projected to welcome over 90 million foreign visitors, with Braintrust consulting predicting arrivals could reach 115 million by 2040, overtaking current leader France.
Protests against tourism surged this year, beginning in April in the Canary Islands, where six activists went on a hunger strike in Tenerife to try and stop two significant tourism developments. The demonstrations have since spread to some of the nation’s most frequented destinations, including the Balearic Islands, the coastal city of Alicante, and Barcelona, where some protesters even squirted tourists with water guns while shouting, “Tourists go home!”
The concerns fueling these protests mirror those raised during the summer months. Bizilagunekin, a civic organization leading the San Sebastian demonstration, articulated a common sentiment: “Tourism, which for a few is the golden goose, is an economic model that is choking the rest of us.” This event caps a series of discussions and initiatives in San Sebastian, collectively known as “October against touristification.”
Asier Basurto, a member of the organizing platform, expressed frustration over what he sees as a rapid “touristification” process over the last decade. “All our city’s services have been put at the orders of the tourism industry,” he said.
He emphasized that the influx of tourists isn’t inherently problematic; rather, it’s the way the city’s infrastructure has adapted to cater to visitors at the expense of residents. Public spaces are designed for short-term visitors, creating precarious job situations in the tourism sector, he adds. Basurto believes that short-term rentals are driving up housing costs, pushing local residents further away from San Sebastian’s historic center. “We’ve had a way of living for generations, where people are connected to one another and newcomers are integrated,” he emphasized. “If we shift to a model where people only visit for five days, it risks turning our community into a soulless theme park devoid of culture.”
The impact of tourism on rental prices feeds into a larger housing crisis facing Spain. The central bank has reported that nearly half of market-rate renters are at risk of poverty or social exclusion. However, with tourism contributing 13% to Spain’s GDP and providing roughly three million jobs, supporters argue the industry plays a vital role in the economy and was pivotal in the country’s recovery after the pandemic.
Rising tensions are highlighted by instances like that at Playa de las Américas in Tenerife on October 20, where video captured tourists sunbathing just meters away from protesters. There have also been disturbing reports in the media about growing hostility, including incidents of tourist apartments in Seville being vandalized.
In response, David Morales, head of tourism for the conservative People’s Party (PP) in the Canary Islands, defended the rights of tourists to enjoy their vacations free from harassment or attacks.
As protests continue beyond summer, there are heightened concerns in destinations like the Canary Islands that attract significant winter tourism. Javier Cabrera, president of the Circle of Entrepreneurs and Professionals in Southern Tenerife (CEST), warned of the dangers of fostering “tourism-phobia” under the guise of legitimate concerns.
To mitigate backlash, various measures are being introduced; for example, Barcelona plans to ban short-term tourist apartments by 2028, Palma de Mallorca has limited cruise ship dockings, and new visitor caps have been established for some natural parks in Tenerife. Additionally, Seville is considering a new entry fee for the popular Plaza de España.
Yet, Asier Basurto remains skeptical, asserting that protests must persist. “Those who advocate for tourism can no longer claim that everything is perfect,” he stated. “Either we implement changes now, or it will be too late.”
**Interviewer:** Breast cancer is often referred to as the “pink killer.” Can you explain why it is considered a leading threat to women’s health worldwide?
**Expert:** October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month globally. In recent years, the rates of breast cancer have remained alarmingly high. It ranks as the most common malignant tumor among women, contributing significantly to cancer-related morbidity.
**Interviewer:** Ms. Wu, a 49-year-old from Shanghai, recently experienced a situation that reflects this issue. Can you share your story?
**Ms. Wu:** Absolutely. I work in the healthcare field, and during a routine check-up, I discovered a lump in my breast. Initially, it felt smooth and movable, and I didn’t have any discomfort, so I delayed seeking medical attention.
**Interviewer:** That must have been concerning. What happened next?
**Ms. Wu:** After months of postponing my visit, I finally went to the hospital for an examination, and the results were shocking. I was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, and the lump had already spread to my lymph nodes, reaching up to 1.5 cm in size.
**Interviewer:** Dr. Shao, can you explain the implications of being diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer?
**Dr. Shao:** Triple-negative breast cancer is challenging to treat because it lacks specific hormonal targets. This type of cancer is known for its aggressive nature, with a considerable chance of early recurrence and metastasis. Unfortunately, once it metastasizes, the prognosis is often poor, with very few patients surviving beyond a couple of years.
**Interviewer:** How is Ms. Wu coping with her diagnosis now?
**Ms. Wu:** After undergoing surgery and subsequent chemotherapy, I am feeling much better. I even volunteer at the hospital’s breast surgery department to help raise awareness about breast cancer prevention and treatment.
**Interviewer:** During your investigations, did you notice any patterns concerning who is most at risk for developing breast cancer?
**Interviewer:** Yes, I found that breast cancer predominantly affects women aged 30 and above. There are noticeable spikes in incidence rates, particularly between ages 45-49 and again at 60-64.
**Dr. Fan:** That’s correct. In China, the rate of diagnosis sharply rises after 30, with significant peaks in those age brackets.
**Interviewer:** Are there other risk factors that women should be aware of?
**Dr. Wang:** Absolutely. Genetic predisposition, family history, and hormone levels are critical factors. Early menarche, late menopause, and prolonged exposure to hormones also elevate risk. Moreover, lifestyle factors like stress and obesity play a significant role.
**Interviewer:** What guidance do you have for women, particularly those approaching menopause or post-menopausal?
**Dr. Wang:** We do not recommend unmonitored estrogen supplementation. Women approaching menopause might experience symptoms, but any hormonal treatment should be conducted under medical supervision. For post-menopausal women, fat tissue can convert to estrogen, and excessive weight can increase breast cancer risk.
**Interviewer:** Given the rising incidence rates, what steps should women take for early detection?
**Dr. Shao:** Early detection is crucial for improving cure rates. We advise women over 40 to have annual screenings, including ultrasounds and mammograms. Data shows that those who participate in regular screenings have a 30% lower mortality rate than those who do not.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights on this pressing issue. It’s clear that awareness and regular check-ups can significantly impact survival rates in breast cancer.
On October 18th, the Chinese official news agency reported significant developments in the bribery case involving Tang Yijun, the former Secretary of the Party Leadership Group and Chairman of the Jiangxi Provincial Political Consultative Conference. The Supreme People’s Procuratorate has decided to arrest Tang on charges of suspected bribery, and the investigation is ongoing.
Tang Yijun, born in March 1961 in Juxian County, Shandong, has held various positions throughout his career in Zhejiang and Liaoning. He served as the Minister of Justice and became the Secretary of the Jiangxi Provincial Political Consultative Conference in 2023. In April of this year, he was placed under investigation.
On October 7th, authorities announced that Tang Yijun had been expelled from the Communist Party and removed from public office due to serious disciplinary violations. He is accused of exhibiting a blatant disregard for laws and regulations, treating his public power as a means for personal gain, engaging in corrupt transactions, and leveraging his official position for the benefit of others in areas like business operations, company listings, personnel promotions, and case management, while illegally accepting significant amounts of money and valuables.
Further allegations against Tang include resisting organizational investigations, repeatedly accepting inappropriate banquets and travel arrangements, using his authority during the personnel selection process for others’ gain, improperly interfering in market and judicial activities, and failing to manage and educate his spouse appropriately.
In Southern California, a dramatic police chase unfolded in a gated community, leaving local resident Mr. Chen quite shaken. Having moved from mainland China to the U.S. just a month ago to visit his newly born grandchildren, Mr. Chen has struggled to adapt to the American environment, particularly concerning safety. He shared that during his daily walks, he remains extremely vigilant, always alerting his senses to the surroundings.
On the night of October 14, just past 11 PM, Mr. Chen was at home on his computer when he was startled by the sound of multiple police sirens. Initially thinking it was just traffic noise from the street, he quickly realized the sirens were getting closer and louder, accompanied by the whirring of a helicopter overhead. “The helicopter felt really close, like it was right above me,” he recounted. Eventually, several police cars came to a stop about 20 meters from his front door, and he knew something was wrong in the neighborhood.
In a state of alarm, he turned off all the lights in his home and noticed the red and blue lights from the police vehicles reflecting on his ceiling. “The noise was so loud, it felt like I was in a movie,” he described. Concerned for his family’s safety, he locked the doors leading to the backyard and garage and cautiously lifted the curtains to see what was happening outside. His son, curious, came down from the second floor to assess the situation, but Mr. Chen urged him to stay inside, fearing the presence of an armed suspect.
That night, anxiety kept Mr. Chen awake for hours. He was unsure how long the police vehicles remained outside, captivated by the flashing lights on his ceiling until exhaustion finally overcame him.
The following morning, he learned through a WeChat neighborhood group that the chaos stemmed from a police pursuit. A suspect had entered the gated community but was intercepted at another entrance. Video clips shared in the group showed at least four police cars chasing a pickup truck, which crashed into the gate, causing significant damage. A helicopter hovered above, spotlighting the scene.
Although the neighborhood predominantly consists of Hispanic residents, Mr. Chen noted an increasing number of Chinese families, now making up about one-fifth of the residents.
Having seen countless reports of gun violence in America from his home country, Mr. Chen expressed his concerns about safety in the U.S. Despite his month-long stay, he recounted a particular experience when he had to take out the trash at night. The sound of sudden bangs outside, which his son assured him were just fireworks, left him too frightened to step outside. “Everything in America is great, except for the gun situation,” he reflected. He worries that any disagreement could escalate to violence, with potentially dire consequences.
A man has been found guilty of murdering an army veteran in a shocking case that has captivated the community. Jack Crawley, 20, from Carlisle, was convicted for bludgeoning 56-year-old Paul Taylor to death with a hammer. Taylor, who lived in Annan, Dumfriesshire, was reported missing last October, and his remains were discovered in a shallow grave in woodland near Carlisle in May.
Crawley also attempted to burn Taylor’s body before burying him. The evidence presented during the trial at Carlisle Crown Court revealed that Crawley was on bail for Taylor’s murder when he committed a similar crime in January, where he attempted to kill another man he met on the gay dating app Grindr.
The court heard that Crawley had been in contact with Mr. Taylor for some time prior to the incident, and they had met for intimate encounters. Taylor’s family was reportedly unaware of his sexual orientation. In a brutal attack, Crawley struck Taylor in the head at least ten times.
In an investigation marked by grim details, Crawley led police to the remains of Taylor 195 days after he went missing, while in custody related to the other incident. Although he admitted to manslaughter, Crawley maintained his innocence regarding murder throughout the proceedings, which began on October 1.
Detective Superintendent Ian Hussey of Cumbria Police has stated he does not believe there are further victims but acknowledged the importance of ongoing investigations to ensure community safety. The Taylor family expressed their devastation in a statement, lamenting the “horrendous and indescribable” pain caused by losing Paul in such tragic circumstances.
As the case unfolds, it raises significant questions about safety and justice in the community, and the sentencing for Crawley is set to take place on Wednesday.
On October 16, a press conference was held by the Harbin Intermediate People’s Court to discuss the status of agricultural-related intellectual property adjudications in Heilongjiang Province from 2020 to 2024.
According to the court’s report, a total of 117 agricultural-related intellectual property cases were resolved across civil, criminal, and administrative categories during this period. Notably, disputes over trademark infringement and counterfeit trademarks accounted for 48.86% of these cases, while conflicts involving new plant varieties made up 34.19%. Patent disputes represented 10.26%, and other types, including unfair competition, constituted 6.69%. The number of cases regarding plant variety rights surged from 3 in 2020 to 16 in 2024, marking an increase of 433.33%. Among the resolved cases, the withdrawal rate stood at 41.38%.
In recent years, the Heilongjiang courts have strengthened judicial efforts to combat agricultural intellectual property infringements, enhancing litigation guidance and risk notifications, as well as implementing model judgments for similar cases. These actions aim to protect the legitimate rights of intellectual property holders and maintain market order, achieving a harmonious balance between social outcomes and legal effectiveness.
Furthermore, to actively engage in the broader protection of agricultural intellectual property, the provincial courts have extended their judicial functions to create a more conducive environment for agricultural development. Collaborations have been established with seven agencies, including the Provincial Public Security Department, the Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, and the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office, to jointly produce an implementation plan targeting counterfeit and substandard agricultural products. The courts have also signed a memorandum of cooperation with the Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs to enhance the synergy between administrative enforcement and judicial rulings regarding agricultural intellectual property protection. Additionally, guidance has been issued in partnership with the Provincial Market Supervision Administration to strengthen the protection and regulation of the “Wuchang Rice” brand, ensuring the integrity of its reputation. The courts have shared expertise with the Provincial Intellectual Property Protection Center, inviting university scholars as technical investigators to improve the accuracy of factual determinations in technical intellectual property cases.
Looking ahead, the Heilongjiang courts are committed to high-quality adjudication of agricultural intellectual property cases to support the province’s role as a cornerstone for national grain stability and to accelerate agricultural modernization efforts.
This week marks the beginning of a major renovation project at Diamond Bar’s Maple Hill Park, a community favorite with a rich history spanning 35 years. Can you tell us more about what the renovation entails?
The project includes significant upgrades to the central playground, restrooms, and surrounding sidewalks, with an estimated completion time of eight months, aiming for a grand reopening in the summer of 2025.
Maple Hill Park, covering 3.5 acres, is well-loved for its comprehensive amenities, including a playground, tennis courts, basketball courts, pickleball courts, picnic areas, and restrooms. It’s located at 1355 Maple Hill Road, nestled within a mature residential neighborhood, directly across from Maple Hill Elementary School. Due to its extensive offerings, it’s been a popular spot for local residents seeking recreation and outdoor activities. However, given its establishment prior to Diamond Bar’s incorporation in 1989, many facilities have aged and are in need of repair.
What specific improvements can the community expect from this renovation?
The renovation will mainly focus on the playground and the restrooms. The existing playground will be replaced with two play structures designed for children aged 2-5 and 5-12. There will also be the addition of a larger swing set and a carousel with a 360-degree rotational feature. The current restrooms will be replaced with newly built men’s and women’s facilities made from prefabricated ADA-compliant materials. The playground and restrooms, along with nearby sidewalks, will be resurfaced, and the basketball court will also receive a new overlay. Additionally, the project includes the introduction of small gardens to enhance the park’s overall landscaping and aesthetics.
What is the community’s reaction to these planned improvements?
The renovation has been met with enthusiasm from residents who appreciate the updates. With the park’s long history and active use, community members are eager to see these enhancements that will ensure the park remains a vibrant place for recreation and gatherings in the years to come.
In light of recent developments surrounding the case of Chris Kaba, who was shot and killed by a police firearms officer in South London, we had the opportunity to delve into the details surrounding this tragic incident and its implications.
Chris Kaba, a 24-year-old rapper known by the stage names Madix or Mad Itch, was shot in the head during an armed vehicle stop in Streatham in September 2022. It’s important to note that Kaba was unarmed at the time of the shooting. The circumstances leading up to his death are now coming to light, including connections to a shooting incident at a nightclub in Hackney, which he was implicated in just weeks before.
The officer involved, Martyn Blake, 40, was acquitted of murder by a jury at the Old Bailey, a decision that Kaba’s family described as “painful proof” that their lives are devalued by the system. Following the trial, the judge lifted reporting restrictions that had previously prevented the media from revealing details about Kaba’s background, including his criminal history which was not disclosed to the jury during the trial.
Investigators revealed that the Audi Q8 Kaba was driving had been flagged due to its involvement in a firearms incident just a day prior to the shooting. Police were alerted to the vehicle through an automatic number plate recognition system, although they were unaware that Kaba was behind the wheel at the time.
Throughout the trial, it was emphasized that Officer Blake never intended to kill Kaba, as he believed his actions were necessary to protect his colleagues from potential harm due to Kaba’s evasive maneuvers during the police stop. During this encounter, Kaba’s car was reportedly being driven dangerously, leading Blake to fear for the safety of his fellow officers. This series of events ultimately culminated in Kaba being shot with a single bullet.
Moreover, the case draws attention to the broader issues of how lives are valued within the justice system, particularly in light of Kaba’s previous convictions, including those for affray dating back to his adolescence. The aftermath of his death has sparked discussions not only about police accountability but also about the systemic issues relating to how individuals with criminal backgrounds are treated in society.
Floral tributes have been placed at Kirkstall Gardens, where Kaba was shot, reflecting the grief felt by the community and the ongoing discourse surrounding police encounters, accountability, and the lives affected by violence in urban environments. As more information emerges and conversations continue, the impact of this case will undoubtedly resonate within the community and beyond.
Recently, Guangzhou held a city-wide meeting focused on its forestry initiatives. During the meeting, officials emphasized their commitment to enhancing the conservation of significant areas such as Baiyun Mountain, Haizhu Wetland, and the Dafu Mountain relocation protection demonstration zone. They highlighted the objective of establishing specialized plant display gardens and ecological education sites to create a high-profile ecological conservation brand.
“We’ve made substantial progress this year in driving our forestry agenda forward,” stated a representative from the Guangzhou Forestry and Landscaping Bureau. “We are dedicated to enhancing the responsibilities of our forestry leaders, optimizing our forestry management systems, and fostering collaboration through our ‘Forestry Leader + ‘ initiative. With a strong focus on assessments and incentives, we are ensuring that forestry leaders at all levels fulfill their duties effectively.”
The representative also noted the city’s commitment to expanding green spaces and improving the quality of its forests. “Our aim is to enhance the quality of our forests while exploring diverse forms of voluntary tree planting. We’re also accelerating the development of beautification demonstration sites to continuously elevate the quality of urban and rural greenery.”
Additionally, the meeting addressed the importance of protecting green resources. Officials revealed plans to bolster forest and wetland protection, enhance natural reserve construction, and strengthen disaster prevention strategies in forestry. They are also working on a dedicated fund for “Green and Beautiful Guangzhou” ecological initiatives to explore innovative landscaping models.
Looking ahead, the meeting outlined the next steps for the forestry system and ecological construction in Guangzhou. Participants were informed that the city plans to implement eight key projects aimed at beautification and ecological enhancement. “Our goals are clear: we want visible, tangible, and delightful improvements in our ecological landscape,” the representative explained. As part of the initiative, the city aims to accelerate the development of demonstration sites, urban parks, and natural reserves, all while building a high-quality forest city.
Moreover, strict measures will be taken to protect ancient trees and improve the quality of urban greenery, including enhancing the city’s park systems. There are also plans to deepen collective forest rights reforms, with areas like Conghua, Zengcheng, and Huadu taking the lead in innovative practices tailored to local conditions.
On the evening of October 26, the 8th Guangxi Wan Village Basketball Tournament and the Guangxi Community Sports Games kicked off in Fangchenggang City. In a unique collaboration, ASEAN international students and the local Fangchenggang representatives exchanged players to form the China-ASEAN Friendship Team and the China-ASEAN Unity Team for the competition. Additionally, on October 27, a friendly match took place in Dongxing City, featuring a basketball team from Vietnam competing against local players.
This year marks the China-ASEAN Cultural Exchange Year, with the event welcoming representatives from ASEAN countries. The basketball games serve as a platform for trade and cultural interaction, enhancing sports and cultural exchanges between Guangxi and ASEAN nations while continuing a long-standing friendship.
Former national basketball player and member of the Chinese Basketball Hall of Fame, Hu Weidong, officiated the opening game. Reflecting on the event, he emphasized that “sports have no borders.” Recognizing the proximity of Fangchenggang to Vietnam, he suggested inviting Vietnamese basketball fans to Guangxi for the “Village BA” event, promoting friendship through sports and skill exchange. He expressed hope that this tournament would draw more attention to rural development.
In recent years, Fangchenggang City has been actively improving its public service system for 全民健身 (national fitness). Chen Wenzhi, deputy director of the Fangchenggang Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television, Sports, and Tourism, noted that the region has hosted the Vietnam-Mang Street Lantern Festival football friendly match for 29 years and will soon hold the China-ASEAN Marathon, expecting participation from 20,000 individuals.
The Guangxi Wan Village Basketball Tournament has gained popularity, igniting a fitness craze across the region. Since the start of the 14th Five-Year Plan, Guangxi has allocated approximately 1.1 billion yuan to support the construction of 1,430 sports facilities. Currently, sports facilities in communities and administrative villages cover 100% of the region, establishing a preliminary fitness circle within a 15-minute reach for urban communities.
The 8th Guangxi Wan Village Basketball Tournament’s city-level event is co-hosted by the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region’s Publicity Department, Sports Bureau, Ethnic and Religious Affairs Commission, Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Commerce Department, Culture and Tourism Department, and the People’s Government of Fangchenggang City.
