Archives: 17/10/2024

On September 13, 2023, in Beijing, the focus shifted to the descendants of Southern Overseas Chinese workers and their efforts to preserve the memories of the China-Burma Road with the help of their Chinese friends. Liu Yang has the story.

“The stretch of the China-Burma Road that spans 568 kilometers is incredibly steep and dangerous. Many Southern Overseas Chinese workers lost their lives here. We transformed the stories from this site into a stage play that we performed in Malaysia,” reflected Zhang Yunpeng, whose roots trace back to these workers.

Currently, the commemorative event titled “Geng: Retracing the Southern Overseas Chinese Workers on the China-Burma Road” is approaching its conclusion. This marks Zhang Yunpeng’s fourth journey along the China-Burma Road this year, where he shares these poignant stories with overseas Chinese individuals and experts.

Zhang’s father, Zhang Zhiyuan, emigrated from Chaozhou, China, to Singapore in 1937 to open a fabric store. Just two years later, he responded to Chen Jiageng’s call and joined the “Southern Overseas Chinese Workers Service Corps,” helping to transport war supplies along the China-Burma Road.

Zhang Yunpeng recalled that his father spoke little of this chapter in his life until 1985, when he was assigned the task of locating fellow workers. It was at that moment that Zhang uncovered the experiences of his father and uncles. After his father’s passing in 1986, he discovered a memoir and old photographs that offered deeper insights into his father’s past.

In a recent interview, Zhang shared a particular photograph of six men in suits, taken just before they returned to China to contribute to the war effort. He explained that this image tells a story that spans over ten years.

Among the individuals in the photo is a Southern Overseas Chinese worker named Chen Tuan Yuan. Tragically, he was buried alive by Japanese troops in 1944, leaving behind his three-month-old son, Ye Xiaodong. The premiere of the documentary “Southern Overseas Chinese Workers” in Kunming, Yunnan, in 2009 featured a poignant scene where Ye knelt before a monument, clutching an empty picture frame—a moment that resonated deeply with the audience, including Liu Daonan and Lu Guanying from Malaysia’s Southern Overseas Chinese Workers Research Studio. The couple promptly dedicated their efforts to assist Ye in finding photographs of his father.

Zhang recounted that Ye discovered Chen Tuan Yuan and Zhang Zhiyuan were listed in the same payroll records. He presented Ye and the couple with a copy of the group photo. Over the course of a decade, Liu and Lu made numerous trips between China and Malaysia, meticulously collecting research materials and publishing many articles in Malaysian Chinese newspapers. After Liu’s untimely passing in 2019, Lu carried on the mission.

In 2021, Zhang began receiving small newspaper clippings from Lu that provided vital information. These clippings were reports from Singapore’s Nanyang Siang Pau from August 8 and 9, 1939, detailing the names and roles of the “Third Southern Overseas Chinese Workers Corps.” With this newfound information, Zhang and his team were finally able to verify Chen Tuan Yuan’s likeness in the photograph.

Zhang expressed heartfelt gratitude for the decade-long dedication of Liu and Lu in compiling historical records and promoting the legacy of the Southern Overseas Chinese workers. He acknowledged that many Overseas Chinese joined him in this noble cause.

In 2011, Chinese organizations in Malaysia and Singapore coordinated a convoy to retrace the China-Burma Road, where attendees enjoyed a performance by the descendants of the Southern Overseas Chinese workers. Lin Qiuyah, the permanent honorary president of the Malaysian Hainan Association, expressed her enthusiasm for the play and encouraged Zhang to bring it to Malaysia.

What truly touched Zhang was the support from Lin and the local Chinese community, who covered most of the costs to alleviate financial burdens on the team. In 2012, a troupe of 35 descendants traveled to various cities, including Kulai, Muar, and Kuala Lumpur, receiving significant media coverage. Zhang has kept these articles, and each time he revisits them, he is moved. “Many Overseas Chinese paused their own work to support us in this endeavor. It’s something I could never have accomplished alone,” he observed.

Now at 78 years old, Zhang Yunpeng was a physics teacher before his retirement. He humorously mentioned that he wasn’t skilled at writing in his youth; yet, here he is, having authored several articles about the Southern Overseas Chinese workers. He is thankful for the Chinese friends who have stood by him in this journey to share their stories.

In recent years, the fast fashion industry has faced growing scrutiny over its environmental impact and the problem of overconsumption. This concern remains strong, despite the criticisms directed at companies like Shein and Temu, which have intensified the fast fashion trend in the U.S. According to Professor Sheng Lu from the University of Delaware, traditional clothing retailers typically launch around 1,000 new styles each year. However, fast fashion pioneers like Zara and H&M have ramped this up to approximately 20,000, while Shein has taken it even further, introducing an astonishing 1.5 million new items every year.

A consulting firm, McKinsey & Company, has analyzed the fashion market and uncovered some surprising figures. The global fashion industry is now valued at $1.7 trillion, with production having doubled between 2000 and 2014. Consumer spending on clothing has risen by an average of 60%. McKinsey projects that the apparel sales volume will increase from 62 million tons in 2019 to 100 million tons by 2030—equivalent to around 50 billion T-shirts.

Despite the allure of fast fashion, the industry has encountered backlash from environmental and labor rights organizations. This discontent is echoing in Congress, both in Europe and the United States. In March, for instance, the French National Assembly passed a ban on advertising for fast fashion products, imposing penalties for each garment sold. Additionally, France proposed a total ban on the export of second-hand clothing to the European Parliament. Meanwhile, lawmakers in New York are working on a bill that would require major retailers in the state to disclose their supply chains in order to combat labor exploitation and environmental degradation.

McKinsey’s “2024 State of Fashion” report indicates that 87% of executives believe that environmental regulations will significantly influence their operations. Professor Lu emphasizes that this regulatory shift, combined with changing consumer habits, is likely to exert more pressure on fast fashion brands.

Shein argues that its use of predictive analytics to identify styles leads to less waste compared to traditional manufacturing, as they produce items only based on confirmed orders. Nonetheless, Shein and similar companies are attempting to rebrand themselves away from the fast fashion label. For example, Shein is exploring the resale market for second-hand luxury goods, and Zara has committed to transitioning entirely to sustainable, organic, or recycled materials by 2025.

Yet, the fast fashion influence seems unlikely to diminish. Professor Raymond Wong from Hong Kong Polytechnic University observes that, prior to the rise of fast fashion, the garment production cycle took about two months. Now, the process from design to retail can occur in less than two weeks, significantly compressing the lifecycle of new styles from seasonal to monthly changes.

Fast fashion also proves to be more profitable than traditional retail, as these companies are adept at balancing production with sales. According to Professor Wong, this equilibrium helps avoid overstock situations that often necessitate clearance sales, supporting the idea that introducing items sooner can drive higher sales volumes.

Despite ongoing criticism, experts suggest that the impact of small consumer advocacy groups on the garment supply chain is unlikely to be significant due to their limited reach. McKinsey’s research shows that 40% of Americans purchased from Shein or Temu in the past year, with intentions to buy even more in the next few years.

Sanchita Saxena from UC Berkeley encapsulates the issue succinctly, describing it as a classic chicken-and-egg scenario. Retailers claim to be responding to consumer demand, while consumers feel pressured to purchase due to the constant influx of new options. Saxena emphasizes the need to break this cycle, proposing that government intervention might be crucial for instigating real change.

Brian Huggett, a legendary Welsh golfer who made a significant impact on the sport, has passed away at the age of 87. Known for his outstanding achievements during the 1960s and 70s, Huggett was a prominent figure in European golf. His legacy includes 16 tournament victories and crucial contributions to the Ryder Cup, where he proudly represented Great Britain and Ireland six times between 1963 and 1975 and served as a non-playing captain in 1977.

Reflecting on his Ryder Cup experiences, one of the defining moments stands out: the 1969 tournament at Royal Birkdale. It was the final day, and Huggett found himself in a nail-biting match against American golfer Billy Casper. As the tension heightened, he faced a critical five-foot putt on the 18th green to halve the match. Just before he putted, a roaring cheer erupted from a nearby hole, which he initially thought meant Tony Jacklin had just won his match against Jack Nicklaus, painting a picture of an imminent victory for the home team. The pressure was immense, and the stakes were high.

Summoning remarkable focus, the small but resolute Welshman sunk the putt, allowing tears of joy to flow. However, he later learned that the cheers had been premature; Jacklin had only managed to square his match. In the midst of his emotional turmoil, Huggett had to compose himself and watch the thrilling conclusion of the day’s events. He witnessed Nicklaus demonstrate incredible sportsmanship by conceding a putt to Jacklin, resulting in an extraordinary tie after a tightly contested competition. Although that moment was clouded with confusion, it highlighted Huggett’s exceptional ability to perform under pressure, earning him the title of one of the “gutsiest putts ever made in the long history of the Ryder Cup,” according to The Scotsman.

Huggett was born in Porthcawl, South Wales, into a family deeply rooted in golf. His father, George, worked as the professional and bar steward at Royal Porthcawl Golf Club, which provided young Brian with ample opportunities to immerse himself in the sport. “I grew up living in the clubhouse, halfway up a hill, so there was nothing else to do but play golf,” he once reminisced, a sentiment that might explain why his brother, Geoff, also pursued a professional golfing career.

At just 15 years old, Brian began assisting his father at the Redhill and Reigate Club in Surrey. His first major win came in 1962 at the Dutch Open, where he delivered a stunning third-round score of 65, featuring nine birdies. By this time, he had already hinted at stardom by tying for third place in the 1962 Open Championship.

Making his Ryder Cup debut in 1963 in Atlanta, Huggett secured an impressive 2.5 points out of five matches played, proving to be a strong competitor alongside George Will against the formidable duo of Arnold Palmer and Johnny Pott. Although he missed the 1965 Cup, Huggett continued to make his mark in the following five tournaments, showcasing his talents despite the USA’s dominance during those years.

As captain in 1977 during the competition at Royal Lytham & St Annes, Huggett faced efforts to enhance the cup’s relevance. Following a tough defeat, he advocated for transforming the British and Irish team into a European one, which subsequently elevated the competition’s profile and contributed to its growing popularity.

Though he never clinched a major tournament title, Huggett enjoyed a remarkable career, culminating in his most successful year of 1968, when he topped the pre-European Tour Order of Merit. He represented Wales nine times in the World Cup of Golf and will always be remembered as one of the greatest Welsh golfers, celebrated alongside legends such as Dai Rees and Ian Woosnam.

After transitioning to the European Seniors Tour in 1992, Huggett continued to find success, including a victory at the Senior British Open in 1998. In his retirement, he ventured into course design and hosted corporate golf events, solidifying his legacy within the sport.

In the early 2000s, Huggett’s connection to the Ryder Cup was reignited when he played a crucial role in bringing the event to Wales for the first time. He served as an ambassador for the 2010 tournament held at Celtic Manor.

Honored with an MBE in 1978 and inducted into the Welsh Sports Hall of Fame in 2006, Huggett’s contributions to golf will always be cherished. He is survived by his wife, Winnie, whom he married in 1961, and their daughters, Yvonne and Sandra. Brian George Charles Huggett, born on November 18, 1936, will be remembered as a true legend of the game, who passed away on September 22, 2024.

On October 8, the Jilin Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism shared some exciting news about the province’s cultural and tourism sectors during the National Day holiday. They reported that visitor numbers at various cultural sites and tourist attractions reached new heights, leading to significant increases in accommodation spending as well.

In an analysis from Trip.com, the Changchun Film Studio Museum emerged as one of the top ten popular red tourism destinations in the country. On October 2 alone, the museum welcomed over 10,000 visitors, setting a historic record with a 38.8% increase compared to last year. Similarly, the Yang Jingyu Martyrs’ Cemetery in Tonghua saw a remarkable 42.1% rise in visitor numbers. Attractions like the Tazishan Scenic Area in Siping and the World War II Allied POW Camp Exhibition Hall in Liaoyuan also experienced impressive growth, bringing in over 50% more visitors compared to the previous year.

Throughout the National Day holiday, 37 museums across Jilin province extended their operating hours, hosting 69 themed events that attracted 42.1% more visitors year-on-year. Libraries and cultural centers got in on the action as well, organizing 787 patriotic cultural activities that saw a 40.7% increase in participation. The Jilin Provincial Museum offered a series of educational programs, including family activities titled “Celebrating the National Day” and “Exploring the Museum” workshops, resulting in a 45.2% jump in visitor numbers. Meanwhile, the Jilin City Museum experienced an astonishing 242% increase in attendance, thanks to its “Children Welcome National Day” bamboo weaving program, and the Confucius Temple Museum in Changchun saw a 49% uptick in visitors through its moral education activities.

During the holiday, major tourist sites in Jilin executed over a hundred cultural and tourism events. The province’s 97 A-level attractions reported respective increases of 11.8% in visitor numbers and a 24.2% rise in tourism revenue. The Changbai Mountain area set a record with an 18.1% boost in visitors for this time of year. The Jingyue Pool scenic area in Changchun hosted lively dance flash mobs, live music, and traditional performances, which contributed to a 20% rise in visitors. The Changchun World Sculpture Park achieved an impressive 100.9% increase in attendance, while the Fengchuan Scenic Area in Hunchun welcomed nearly 20,000 guests on October 3, marking a new reception record since its opening.

The thriving tourism sector also positively affected accommodation revenues. Statistics revealed that premium hot spring hotels and guesthouses in the Changbai Mountain area boasted a booking rate exceeding 90%. In Jilin City, 60 key hotels reported an average occupancy rate of 69.9%, with all major hotels in Tonghua fully booked.

Every autumn, a charming seaside town in Brittany hosts a one-of-a-kind festival that shines a spotlight on low-budget independent films from Britain and Ireland. Could this be the perfect setting for a Poirot mystery?

While Cannes may be the crown jewel of France’s film festivals, the event in Dinard has its own unique allure. For five days each fall, this picturesque coastal town transforms into a hub for celebrating cinema with a special twist: every film screened is a British or Irish production, primarily focusing on indie films. This year’s standout features included “The Outrun,” starring Saoirse Ronan, and Alice Lowe’s “Timestalker.” From the glamorous red-carpet premieres to the extravagant gala dinners and sold-out screenings, you might think these films are poised for blockbuster success or Oscar recognition.

Rebecca O’Brien, renowned for her work with Ken Loach, shared her deep affection for the Dinard festival. “I adore the vibrant, end-of-season atmosphere in this lovely French seaside town—with its picturesque coves, the casino, and charming hotels,” she said. “One of the greatest moments of my life was being invited to be the festival’s godmother. They put me in a beautiful hotel and treated me like royalty. It was unbelievable. I’ve never experienced that kind of treatment anywhere else.”

O’Brien attributes part of this warmth to the French’s genuine love for cinema. Plus, Dinard takes pride in its historical ties to the UK. The festival’s website refers to it as “France’s most British seaside resort,” a title it earned in the 19th century, when wealthy English visitors were drawn to its stunning scenery and began building villas along the cliffs. “The magic still works,” the site observes, as a distinctly British vibe continues to resonate through the town’s streets and beaches.

This unique atmosphere intensifies during the festival, with local creperies and shops showcasing Union Jack bunting and traditional British phone booths set up for photos. I even spotted two police officers dressed in classic British bobby uniforms—real Cornish officers invited over from Dinard’s twin town, Newquay, to enhance the British flair. “It’s wild,” producer Andy Brunskill reflected after showcasing his film “Sweet Sue” at the festival last year. “Every corner feels like you might stumble onto a crime scene, and suddenly Poirot could pop in. But what’s even more astounding is the enthusiasm they have for the Brits and British culture. It’s as if we haven’t spent the last decade making spectacles of ourselves on the global stage.”

Dinard evokes a mix of pride and embarrassment about being British. Standing before the statue of Alfred Hitchcock, watching crowds queue for gritty micro-budget films, and hearing local dignitaries praise their favorite neighbors across the English Channel is undeniably flattering. Yet, it also serves as a reminder of how we approach culture back home. Juliet Stevenson noted at the closing ceremony, “I think you love British films more than the British do.”

This year marked the 35th edition of the festival, which has recently been rebranded as the Dinard British and Irish Film Festival. It began as a friendly golf competition between British and French producers during the “golden age of British-French co-production,” according to current artistic director Dominique Green. Golf balls were hit, deals were brokered, and British films began to carve out their niche in the European market. In the early 2000s, a UK cinema fund even sponsored a group of producers, directors, actors, and journalists to attend, fostering a fun, lively atmosphere throughout the event. Dinard greatly benefited from this, establishing itself as an artistic hub in the region.

Today, the festival has taken on a more low-key vibe. The British independent film scene is facing resource challenges, making hits like “The Full Monty” and “Billy Elliot” feel like distant memories. Adding to this, Ryanair’s withdrawal of flights to the nearest airport in 2021 has meant that British and Irish filmmakers now travel via Eurostar and TGV. As a result, stars like Hugh Grant and Daniel Craig are less likely to attend.

However, this intimacy lends a special charm to the festival. O’Brien noted, “It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow filmmakers. You often don’t see them while working in the UK, where competition can keep you apart. But Dinard is small enough that you can relax and share a meal with colleagues you might never meet otherwise. It’s a triumph, and I hope it continues for many more years to come.”

On October 7, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif took to social media to express his deep shock and sorrow over the recent terrorist attack on a convoy belonging to a Chinese company, which occurred on October 6. He strongly condemned what he called an “outrageous act.”

In his statement, Prime Minister Sharif offered heartfelt condolences to the leaders and people of China, especially to the families of the victims. He wished for a swift recovery for those injured in the attack.

Sharif emphasized that Pakistani authorities are actively investigating the incident to identify those responsible and ensure they are brought to justice. He reassured that Pakistan remains committed to protecting its Chinese friends and will take every possible measure to ensure their safety in the country.

According to the Chinese embassy in Pakistan, the attack took place around 11 PM local time on October 6, targeting a convoy associated with KQ Power Company near Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport. The assault led to the tragic deaths of two Chinese nationals, injuries to another, and casualties among local personnel.

The Chinese consulate in Pakistan also expressed strong condemnation of the terrorist act. They extended heartfelt condolences to the victims from both nations and conveyed sincere sympathy to those injured and their families. Additionally, they urged Chinese citizens, companies, and projects in Pakistan to remain vigilant, stay updated on the local security situation, enhance safety measures, and prioritize precautions.

In a disturbing incident on the morning of October 2, two armed men attacked a Chinese beauty salon on 8th Avenue in Brooklyn, injuring a 28-year-old employee and making off with around $1,000 in cash. As of now, police have not made any arrests, and their investigation is still underway.

Authorities report that the incident occurred around 5 a.m. when the suspects entered the salon located between 59th and 60th Streets. Initially, a verbal confrontation erupted between the assailants and the staff, which escalated quickly into a physical struggle. During this confrontation, one of the attackers brandished a knife, injuring the male employee. After robbing the establishment, the two fled the scene, heading east on 59th Street.

Responding swiftly, officers from the 66th precinct and emergency medical personnel arrived to assess the situation. The injured employee was taken to Maimonides Medical Center, where he is currently reported to be in stable condition.

Police describe the suspects as Hispanic males, both wearing black at the time of the incident. One of them was allegedly armed with a black firearm.

Authorities are encouraging anyone with information about the incident to reach out via the Crime Stoppers hotline at (800) 577-TIPS (8477), visit the Crime Stoppers website at www.nypdcrimestopper.com, or text 274637 (CRIMES) with the message TIP577. Tips can also be sent through Twitter @NYPDTips or the Crime Stoppers mobile app “CS-NYC,” ensuring full confidentiality for all informants.

**Interviewer:** Many people are struggling with high electricity bills. What are some effective ways to save energy and lower our costs? Does adjusting the thermostat really help?

**Expert:** According to the National Energy Assistance Directors Association and the Center for Energy Poverty and Climate, electricity prices nationwide are projected to rise by 8% this summer, with average monthly energy costs reaching $719 from June to September.

As we move into winter, heating costs will also spike. The U.S. Energy Information Administration predicts an increase of $130 in energy expenses for this winter.

One simple way to alleviate the financial burden is by adjusting your home’s thermostat—raising it in the summer and lowering it in the winter.

Thermostat adjustments can be one of the easiest ways to save energy, but there are several other budget-friendly strategies to maintain year-round comfort.

**Interviewer:** But adjusting the temperature settings might compromise comfort. Is it really worth it?

**Expert:** It really depends on the individual. For example, if it’s 100°F outside for a month, and your ideal indoor temperature is set at 72°F with a bill of $500, you could save $50 by increasing the thermostat. Yet, internal comfort levels vary.

Energy Department data shows that the closer the indoor temperature is to the outside temperature, the less you pay in energy costs. For instance, if you adjust your thermostat by 7 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit for just eight hours a day, you might save around 10% on your heating and cooling bills annually.

Vernon Trollinger, an energy efficiency expert from Iowa, points out that few people notice much difference between indoor temperatures of 70°F and 78°F. A major factor in our perception of temperature is humidity; high humidity makes it harder for sweat to evaporate, making it feel hotter.

**Interviewer:** Could smart thermostats play a role in increasing efficiency?

**Expert:** Absolutely! Installing a smart thermostat can help minimize temperature variance, allowing it to automatically adjust when the house is empty, thus reducing energy consumption and lowering bills. For example, Ben Brown, CEO of Renew Home, a California-based energy management platform, notes that using a Nest smart thermostat can save about 12% to 15% on heating and cooling costs.

These smart thermostats utilize machine learning or AI to adjust themselves, adapting to when residents leave or return. They can also analyze weather forecasts to optimize temperature settings for maximum energy efficiency. If your state has time-of-use pricing, a smart thermostat can also adjust settings based on peak and off-peak hours to save money.

**Interviewer:** How can homeowners better understand their energy efficiency?

**Expert:** It’s crucial for homeowners to assess their energy efficiency thoroughly. It’s wise to have an expert conduct a thorough inspection. However, individuals can also obtain checklists from their utility companies to evaluate energy use in various areas of their homes.

For instance, if you can easily pull a dollar bill out from a closed door, it indicates air leakage. Wetting your hand and feeling around window frames can also help identify drafts. If you find air leaks, picking up sealants from a hardware store—often under $10—can make a significant difference in energy bills once the leaks are sealed.

**Interviewer:** What other strategies can homeowners employ to keep their homes comfortable while saving money?

**Expert:** There are several additional strategies to reduce energy costs. Ben Brown recommends investing in affordable tech, like smart plugs connected to your Wi-Fi, allowing you to control devices via mobile apps—perfect for high-energy appliances like refrigerators.

He also suggests using smart light switches with timers based on needs.

On the manual side, Trollinger emphasizes a few simple energy-saving hacks:

1. Keep south, southwest, and west-facing curtains closed to block sunlight and consider planting trees for added shade.
2. Regularly change HVAC filters. Clogged filters hinder airflow and extend operating time.
3. Keep rooms open. Closing a room can create discomfort in another area.
4. Turn off the AC at night. If temperatures drop below 60°F, you can open windows to cool down and close them before it warms up again.
5. Switch to LED bulbs, which last longer and consume less energy.

And don’t forget to take advantage of rebates for upgrading equipment. For example, Austin Energy offers an average rebate of $350 for installing new energy-efficient AC systems, while San Diego Gas & Electric provides discounts for smart thermostats and water heater upgrades.

Check your local utility company’s website for rebate programs.

Overall, every energy-saving action contributes to lower energy bills, and adjusting your thermostat is just the starting point.

Yan’an holds a significant place in the narrative of the Chinese revolution, often described as the birthplace of modern China. Recently, Renmin University of China hosted an exhibition titled “Yan’an Thirteen Years and Chinese-Style Modernization.” This exhibition organizes a rich array of historical documents and artifacts to reflect on the pivotal role of the Communist Party of China during the Yan’an period, highlighting their efforts to develop a modernization path tailored to China. It serves as a crucial opportunity for us to explore the historical foundations and spiritual essence that underpin Chinese-style modernization.

General Secretary Xi Jinping has emphasized that the process of modernization in China is deeply rooted in its unique social realities. While modernization is a common goal across the globe, the routes taken by various nations differ widely. Chinese-style modernization is informed by the country’s specific conditions, cultural legacy, and historical backdrop. Understanding the journey of Chinese-style modernization, including its past and prospects for the future, requires us to look closely at its historical development. During the thirteen years in Yan’an, leaders like Mao Zedong and the Central Committee of the Communist Party crafted a compelling story of resilience and ambition, as they sought national rejuvenation in the face of adversity. This era was crucial for shaping the politics, ideology, and organization of the Party and garnered substantial grassroots support through its dedication to serving the people, laying a robust foundation for unity as they pursued modernization.

On the theoretical front, the Party adeptly merged the core tenets of Marxism with the specificities of the Chinese context, introducing the significant concept of “Sinicization of Marxism.” This strategy delineated a practical pathway to establish the social conditions conducive to modernization through a new democratic revolution, thereby offering fresh perspectives on China’s modernization process.

The years spent in Yan’an marked a transformative period for the Communist Party, reshaping the nation’s path. The values and spirit nurtured during this time represent a rich spiritual legacy for the Party. As we embark on a new historical journey towards fully realizing the modernization of our nation and the rejuvenation of the Chinese people, it is essential to draw on the lessons and experiences of the past, celebrating and advancing the Yan’an spirit to fuel our progress in this unprecedented undertaking.

To successfully advance Chinese-style modernization, we must firmly commit to Party leadership, as it fundamentally shapes this process. The Party’s leadership not only drives the momentum for modernization but also ensures alignment with overarching goals. The achievements evident during the Yan’an era were largely due to strong, centralized leadership from the Party. As we navigate future challenges, it is crucial to reinforce our comprehensive Party leadership, fully understanding the significance of the “two establishments,” and enhancing our political consciousness and actions to align closely with the Central Committee under Xi Jinping. This will ensure that all initiatives, both Party and national, remain on course.

People-centric development is also vital for fostering Chinese-style modernization. The people are the true architects of history and the driving force behind this process. During the Yan’an years, the Party relied on the populace to alter the trajectory of the nation, leading to significant victories in both the Anti-Japanese War and the War of Liberation. Today, as we pursue a distinct path of modernization separate from the West, we are revealing a new model of socialist modernization focused on the people. To effectively promote this vision, we must embrace a people-centered development approach, striving for the comprehensive liberation and development of all individuals as the ultimate aim of modernization. This requires engaging with the people’s creative spirit, harnessing their wisdom and strength, and ensuring that the rewards of modernization are equitably shared.

Moreover, the advancement of Chinese-style modernization necessitates the Party’s commitment to self-revolution, which is integral to its leadership role in a broader social revolution. The capacity for self-correction is a defining characteristic of the Communist Party of China, underscoring its mission as a Marxist entity to lead societal change. This dual commitment has allowed the Party to remain relevant and effective over the past century, guiding the Chinese revolution, construction, and reform toward successive victories. During the Yan’an period, the Party addressed its shortcomings through self-revolution and upheld the truth, shepherding the movements for national independence and the liberation of the people to success. As we enter a decisive chapter in promoting Chinese-style modernization for national empowerment and rejuvenation, we must maintain clarity and determination, uphold a reformist mindset, and apply rigorous standards in Party management. Enhancing our self-purification, self-improvement, self-renewal, and self-advancement capabilities is essential for strengthening our political leadership, ideological direction, mass organization, and social appeal as we embark on new phases of the great social revolution, guiding the Chinese-style modernization initiative through challenges toward a brighter future.

(Interviewee: Zhou Jiabin, Associate Dean of the School of History and Party Building at Renmin University of China, Researcher at the Institute of Party History and Party Building)
Source: Guangming Daily

Demi Moore, the iconic actress celebrated for her performances in hits like “The Sixth Sense” and “Disclosure,” steps into a captivating role in the new thriller “Cracked.” At 61, she portrays a former celebrity grappling with harsh criticism regarding her age. The film has made a significant impact worldwide, grossing over 400 million TWD (approximately $12.57 million) due to its bold narrative.

In one particularly memorable scene, Dennis Quaid plays a television producer who personifies greed as he sits across from Moore’s character. While casually indulging in shrimp, his dismissive words reflect a troubling mindset about women, asserting bluntly, “The audience always prefers something new. By 50, you’re done…” Moore expressed her disgust towards this moment, calling it “the most disgusting scene” she has ever encountered.

“Cracked” centers on Elizabeth, portrayed by Moore, a once-famed Hollywood star who decides to try a drug claiming to restore her youth as she confronts the realities of aging. The film explores the chilling repercussions on both her body and mind, leaving audiences shocked by its twists. Moore found the scene with Quaid’s character particularly challenging, emphasizing, “It felt like the most violent scene in this movie,” especially given the numerous angles needed to film it.

Quaid, fully embodying the antagonist, praised director Kylorifahget, calling her “the best director.” He commended her vision for the film, which he believes prompts viewers to rethink their notions of “perfection.” Kylorifahget acknowledged that some audiences may view Quaid’s character as exaggerated but stressed that such attitudes persist and continue to impact women today. She hopes that both men and women will leave the film inspired to shed societal labels and embrace authentic living.