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On October 22, five Olympic athletes participating in the “Olympic Athletes’ Qinghai Journey: Shandong Olympians in Haibei” visited Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Qinghai Province, taking in the spirit of the “Two Bombs, One Satellite” initiative, experiencing the stunning natural scenery, and immersing themselves in local ethnic culture.

That morning, the athletes explored the Qinghai Atomic City Memorial Museum and the first factory of the former State-Owned 221 Factory, reflecting on the remarkable history of the area.

Ma Zhenzhao, the bronze medalist in women’s judo (78 kg) at the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics, expressed her admiration for the spirit of the scientists behind the “Two Bombs, One Satellite” project after visiting the museum. “The wisdom and spirit of our predecessors inspire us. I will train harder and strive to achieve excellent results in future competitions to bring glory to our country,” she stated.

Notably, Liang Yushuang, the bronze medalist in men’s taekwondo (68 kg) at the 2024 Paris Olympics, garnered a new fan during the visit. A young child presented Liang with a handmade drawing, to which Liang encouraged the child, saying, “You should study hard, and when you’re ready to learn taekwondo, I’d be happy to teach you.”

The athletes also reached the summit of the Tóngbǎo Mountain Scenic Area in Haiyan County. The high altitude rendered the area snow-covered, but the strong winds couldn’t deter their ascent. “The wind is pretty strong here, but I think the scenery is beautiful. If we hadn’t reached the top, we wouldn’t have seen such stunning views,” Liang noted.

Looking east, the Golden Silver Beach unfolded before them; to the west, the vast expanse of Qinghai Lake came into view. In the cold winds, the athletes stopped for a group photo, and Lin Weining, the gold medalist in women’s 69 kg at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, couldn’t help but recite poetry, marveling at the majestic landscape before him.

Located along the northern shore of Qinghai Lake, Shengquan Bay in Gangcha County is a popular scenic area. Upon arrival, local residents warmly presented white khatas (ceremonial scarves) as a gesture of welcome and goodwill toward the Olympians.

“This place is so beautiful—the lake has three distinct colors, and the waves are magnificent,” Lin commented while taking pictures with his phone. “I didn’t expect to feel the sea breeze here in the northwest, and there are so many seagulls—it’s like they aren’t afraid of humans, probably because they’re used to interaction.”

Liang Yushuang, visiting Qinghai for the first time, was enveloped by the locals’ hospitality. Surrounded by residents in traditional costumes, he joined in the folk dance known as Guozhuang. “They welcomed us with their simple songs and beautiful dances. Dancing with them not only allowed me to experience the local culture but also warmed me up through movement. It felt great for both body and soul,” he shared.

Standing by the shores of Qinghai Lake, Liang expressed his satisfaction with the journey. “This trip to Qinghai has left a deep impression on me. Not only is there delicious beef and lamb, but the scenery is breathtaking, and the friends I’ve met are so warm. If I have the chance, I would definitely come back again,” he said, before happily taking selfies with the locals at their invitation.

In the gentle autumn rain, the aroma of coffee filled the air at a café on Duolun Road, where the “Love in Golden Autumn” sweet love salon took place on October 26.

Violist Zhang Siyuan and young pianist Xiao Jieyu shared the stage, performing pieces such as “Autumn,” “The Most Romantic Thing,” and “Norwegian Romantic Pieces.” The audience, consisting of newlyweds and music lovers, lost themselves in the flowing melodies and uplifting rhythms of both Chinese and international music.

On December 2, 2023, the Sweet Love Marriage Registration Center in Hongkou District will officially open, becoming Shanghai’s sole institution for marriage registrations. With its sweet and beautiful symbolism and vintage, elegant atmosphere, the center has quickly become a trendy photo spot on Sweet Love Road. Earlier this year, the Hongkou District Civil Affairs Bureau launched an innovative cultural service model called the Sweet Love Salon series. This initiative offers a carefully curated array of activities, including storytelling, interactions with celebrities, and engaging games, enabling couples not only to hear touching love stories but also to connect intimately with cultural figures and experience the beauty and power of love together. The inaugural salon, themed around “love,” featured a delightful performance and talk by renowned comic artist, Mr. Cao Xiong, celebrating Shanghai’s cultural richness.

Miss Wang and Mr. Liu, a recently married couple, were among those who registered for the Sweet Love Salon. They expressed their joy upon receiving approval to attend. Both music enthusiasts, they shared that they enjoyed listening to piano music while recalling how one of them joined the university choir while the other was part of the drama club.

Miss Wang described the Sweet Love Salon as a warm and inviting platform. She emphasized that whether newlyweds or celebrating golden anniversaries, couples at any stage of marriage need elements of romance, like piano music and coffee, coupled with intimate moments. The couple hopes the Sweet Love Salon will create a sweeter atmosphere for more single friends in the future, providing them with opportunities to connect.

On October 18, 2023, Zhou Yu, a retired colonel, renowned Chinese-language author based in Los Angeles, and a survivor of the tragic Montebello dance hall shooting, passed away at the age of 90.

His daughter, Jennie Qin, shared the news just five minutes after his passing, stating in a post, “Dad passed away five minutes ago.” She later confirmed this to a reporter.

Friend Chen Shimei expressed condolences online, writing, “He left quietly, which is a blessing. Please encourage and comfort Mom during this time.” Zhou Yu’s wife, Zhang Fumei, shares her name with a former chairperson of the Overseas Community Affairs Commission of the Republic of China. Zhou had previously written an essay titled “A Chairperson in the Family.”

Chen added, “He passed peacefully, and both the hospital and family took excellent care of him.”

Former Overseas Community Affairs Commissioner Yang Yiyi recalled meeting Zhou Yu on August 10, when he mentioned he had begun dialysis—doing it himself at home rather than going to the hospital. Little did they know it would be their last encounter. Zhou was present at the Montebello dance hall during the shooting that shocked the nation; fortunately, he left just ten minutes prior to the tragic event.

This past February, at the age of 89, Zhou published his 21st and 22nd works, a biography collection titled “Ink and Deep Affections” and an essay collection “The Taste of Diamonds.” A book launch was held by the North American Los Angeles Chinese Writers Association at the Langley Center in Monterey Park, attended by fellow authors and representatives from Chinese community organizations. World Journal Los Angeles President Yu Zhiqin also delivered a speech celebrating Zhou’s publication and his unwavering spirit.

Having immigrated to the United States over 40 years ago, Zhou was actively involved in the Southern California Chinese community, taking on leadership roles in various organizations, including the Los Angeles Writers Association and the Los Angeles Glorious Society. Throughout his career, he penned over three million words across more than 22 published works, receiving numerous accolades such as the Outstanding Chinese American Achievement Award in Los Angeles, the First Prize for Literary Reporting from United Daily News, and the “May Fourth” Literary Award from the Chinese Literature Association, among others.

On October 24th, the Shanghai Putuo District Prosecutor’s Office hosted an open day dedicated to juvenile online protection, titled “Government-Procurement E-Enterprise Joint Action for Youth”. This event aimed to enhance the online safety of minors and foster a healthy digital environment.

During the event, a new guideline titled “Guidelines for the Protection of Minors by Internet Companies” was unveiled. The purpose of these guidelines is to encourage internet businesses to assume their social responsibilities and collaboratively build a robust protective barrier for minors online.

The guidelines delineate five major areas: addiction prevention features, content regulations, and personal information protection, subdivided into 18 categories that address 32 potential issues. It presents one-on-one recommendations for each scenario, supported by relevant legal references. Notably, it emphasizes that platforms like online gaming, live streaming, video sharing, and social media should implement a minor mode, complete with time management, permission management, and spending controls to combat minors’ addiction to online entertainment.

Additionally, recognizing that minors may struggle to discern harmful information, the guidelines call on companies to strengthen information management. They are instructed to categorize and grade harmful content based on its impact on minors’ mental and physical health, employing measures such as clear warnings and content removal as necessary. In light of rising concerns about threats to minors from online scams, harassment, cyberbullying, and data breaches, the guidelines also summarize relevant provisions under the “Internet Protection Regulations” concerning the personal information of minors, clarifying the responsibilities of key stakeholders like internet service providers and data handlers.

In the consumer realm, the guidelines specify legal requirements regarding products like alcohol, tattoos, and video games, indicating that “online games must not offer recharge services to minors under 8 years old” and imposing strict limits on recharge amounts for minors aged 8 to 16 and 16 to 18. This aims to encourage internet companies to proactively mitigate risks and uphold their legal obligations as a protective measure.

Xu Lichun, head of the Dandelion Juvenile Protection Team, stated, “There are no minimum standards when it comes to protecting minors. Various online platforms should actively fulfill their social responsibilities, adhering to the principle that benefits minors the most. We must enforce strict obligations on internet companies, including mandatory reporting and employee background checks, to create a comprehensive network of juvenile protection that involves government oversight, industry self-governance, corporate self-discipline, and legal supervision.”

Representatives from invited internet companies expressed their strong commitment to the guidelines, affirming their intention to enhance efforts in protecting minors online and taking on their necessary social responsibilities.

On October 26, the Chinese Planning Committee (CPC) hosted the “Golden Day Community Carnival” in Manhattan’s Lower East Side to encourage citizens to actively participate in voting. This event coincided with the early voting day for the 2024 elections, aimed at motivating and supporting community members to engage in the electoral process. The initiative ensured that voters felt informed, prepared, and confident as they headed to the polls.

In the context of the elections, “Golden Day” marks the final day for voter registration at the federal, state, and municipal levels, and it also kicks off early voting, which will continue until November 3.

At the event, CPC staff spoke to attendees in multiple languages, explaining the voting process and answering questions related to the election. They provided valuable resources, including assistance with voter registration, mail-in ballot requests, and information about polling places. Wayne Ho, president of the CPC, expressed his hopes for the event to enhance community awareness and participation in elections. He emphasized, “Voting is not just a right; it’s a tool for enacting change and shaping the future.”

The carnival featured Halloween-themed decorations and activities that attracted many families and children. Attendees enjoyed face painting, a pumpkin patch, paper cutting, calligraphy, hot chocolate, and cotton candy. Additionally, participants were able to receive the Chinese version of the “2024 Election Guide,” provided by NYC Votes, which includes information on the voting process, voter rights, and summaries of ballot proposals.

The carnival was also supported by the CPC’s Policy Advocacy Group, which is dedicated to enhancing political participation among Asian communities, low-income individuals, and immigrant groups, ensuring their voices are heard in public policy and decision-making processes.

In a recent interview with Bloomberg’s John Micklethwait on October 15, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump hesitated to make a commitment regarding the deployment of U.S. troops to defend Taiwan, yet asserted, “If I am elected, China will not invade Taiwan.” This statement reflects Trump’s consistent approach, as he has historically evaded questions about sending military aid to Taiwan.

During a Bloomberg Businessweek interview in June, Trump claimed that Taiwan was “taking away business from American chip makers” and argued that Taiwan should pay for its defense from the U.S. In a September interview with a Washington Post columnist, he reiterated that China would refrain from attacking Taiwan during his presidency, although he acknowledged that actions might eventually be taken by China. Trump emphasized the challenging nature of the situation, stating, “Don’t forget, Taiwan is 9,000 miles away from the U.S. and only 100 miles from China.” He urged Taiwanese leaders to significantly increase their defense investments over the next four years, suggesting that Taiwan’s defense spending should reach 10% of its GDP.

Currently, Taiwan’s defense budget for this year stands at approximately NT$606.8 billion, or 2.5% of its GDP, while next year’s budget is projected at NT$647 billion, roughly 2.45% of the GDP.

When Micklethwait questioned Trump about whether Taiwan should pay for U.S. protection, Trump provided a clear affirmative response. In light of recent military exercises conducted by the People’s Liberation Army, simulating a complete blockade of Taiwan, Micklethwait asked Trump if he would send U.S. troops to defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese invasion. Trump replied, “The reason they’re (referring to Beijing) doing what they’re doing now is because they won’t be able to under my administration.”

On October 25th, Taiwan commemorated the 79th anniversary of its liberation. An academic seminar titled “Joint Efforts Across the Strait for a Better Future—Commemorating the 79th Anniversary of Taiwan’s Liberation” was held in Beijing. Speakers at the event engaged in discussions on topics such as “The Historical Background and Contemporary Significance of Taiwan’s Liberation,” “Remembering the Past—Taiwan and the Motherland’s Joint Resistance,” and “Working Together for National Rejuvenation and Unification.”

In an interview with China News Service, Lai Shengliang, Vice Director of the China People’s Anti-Japanese War Memorial, stated that Taiwan’s liberation represents a significant part of the great victory in the Chinese people’s War of Resistance against Japan. He emphasized that this event highlights the historical and legal facts of Taiwan as an inseparable part of Chinese territory. He expressed his hope that the commemoration would further promote the enduring spirit of resistance, urging people across the strait to unite and work together for the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

Lin Mingcong, the Chairman of the Taiwan Anti-Japanese Martyrs’ Families Association and a descendant of the Wufeng Lin family, shared via video that during the Japanese colonial period, Taiwan’s resources were plundered, and its people faced brutal treatment. He noted that the Taiwanese people engaged in a fifty-year struggle against this oppression, with countless heroes sacrificing themselves to return to the embrace of the motherland and to preserve and promote Chinese culture, describing it as “a deeply moving and sorrowful history.”

Song Shuyu, Director of the Taiwan Cultural and Historical Research Institute at Beijing Union University, pointed out that the mainstream opinion in Taiwan currently overlooks the commemoration of its liberation. She attributed this lack of interest to the DPP’s pro-Japanese stance since coming to power and its efforts to downplay the historical significance of the liberation, including renaming the day to “End of War Day” and revising textbooks. She urged the people of Taiwan to take a correct view of history to achieve recognition and a revival of sentiment.

Li Yingbo, an associate professor at Tsinghua University’s Taiwan Research Institute, criticized the DPP administration for stubbornly adhering to a pro-independence stance, which aims at severing ties with the mainland. He stressed the urgent need to awaken the long-standing patriotic spirit among the people of Taiwan, nurturing their recognition of traditional Chinese culture and national spirit, thereby promoting cross-strait integration and development.

The speakers underscored the shared bloodline between people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, noting that during significant national issues, they remain a community of shared fate, united in breath and heart. In light of unprecedented global changes, they emphasized the importance of enhancing communication, building mutual trust, and deepening cooperation to face challenges and seize development opportunities together.

“Acknowledging the irrefutable historical facts, I’ve come to understand that the two sides of the Strait are inseparable, and Taiwan’s liberation is worthy of commemoration by all people across the Strait,” remarked Wu Yitong, a Taiwanese resident in Beijing. He added that as youth on both sides strive for their personal dreams, they should also remember the responsibilities of their era and contribute to the unification cause.

The seminar was jointly organized by the China People’s Anti-Japanese War Memorial and the Beijing Taiwan Association, with assistance from the Taiwan Anti-Japanese Martyrs’ Families Association.

On October 23, during a press conference in Harbin themed on “Promoting High-Quality Development,” local officials highlighted several initiatives aimed at easing market entry for new businesses. Among these initiatives, the government will provide new enterprises with complimentary official seals, including name seals, financial seals, legal representative seals, and contract seals.

Son Gang, a senior official from the Harbin Municipal Market Supervision Administration, shared insights into the city’s recent reforms designed to streamline business registration processes. Since launching its business facilitation reforms in 2018, Harbin has effectively reduced the average time required to set up a business from 11.5 days to just 4 hours. The costs associated with starting a business have been cut from several hundred to a couple of thousand yuan down to zero. Additionally, the bureaucratic process has been simplified from over seven separate steps to a single “one-stop-shop” approach for eight essential tasks, consolidating the processes for obtaining business licenses, tax invoices, seal engraving, social security registration, employment registration, medical insurance registration, housing fund account opening, and bank appointments. This significant improvement has positioned Harbin among the top cities in the country for business convenience. The city consistently ranks highly in third-party evaluations for optimizing the business environment in Heilongjiang province and has been recognized by the National Development and Reform Commission for achieving one of the fastest increases in satisfaction among market entities.

Harbin has also introduced an innovative measure allowing individual businesses to transition to corporate status by synchronously handling eight different tasks as part of a single change registration process. This reform retains the former goodwill and operational continuity of the business, allowing for automatic tax payment verification, smart pre-filling of registration forms, and combined processing of essential changes like tax, seals, social security, medical insurance, housing fund registration, and bank appointments. Individual clinics transitioning to businesses can also simultaneously apply for changes to their medical institution licenses.

Additional efforts have included the launch of standardized services for businesses at banks. Beyond the 20 administrative service halls, Harbin has partnered with 114 bank branches to create designated assistance zones for new business registrations, allowing applicants to conveniently initiate their businesses and bank accounts at no additional cost.

Harbin’s new measures for enterprise migration registration are designed to minimize the hassle associated with relocating businesses. The reforms enable applicants to complete the migration process with just one visit, eliminating the need to submit paperwork to their previous location if they are moving within the city. Applicants can expect a commitment to complete their registration within one working day if all documents are in order.

To further support new businesses, Harbin is using government funds to provide free official seals and has created an accessible policy list with QR codes for residents to read comprehensive policies. Additionally, an electronic seal system has been launched, allowing businesses to apply for both physical and electronic seals without charge. Since the beginning of the year, the city has issued 38,700 sets of seals, saving applicants approximately 9.6 million yuan.

As a result of these comprehensive policies, from January to September this year, Harbin recorded 140,300 new registered business entities, marking an 11.95% increase year-over-year, with an average of 742 new registrations daily. Among these, 42,900 were new enterprises, representing a remarkable 15.96% increase, the highest rate among the four sub-provincial cities in Northeast China.

During recent tensions on the Korean Peninsula, a significant report emerged from North Korean state media indicating that approximately 1.4 million members of the Youth Alliance and young students expressed their desire to enlist or rejoin the military over the course of two days, on the 14th and 15th of October. This development follows North Korea’s destruction of sections of the Gyeongui and Donghae railway lines connecting the North and South, further heightening the regional tension.

When asked about these provocative actions, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller called for North Korea to de-escalate the situation. He stated, “We have observed North Korea continuing to take actions that escalate tensions. We will continue to urge them to ease the situation and stop any behaviors that may increase the risk of conflict.”

Additionally, the Korean Central News Agency reported that the 1.4 million young individuals expressed their determination to eradicate all extreme adversaries and criminals, demonstrating North Korea’s commitment to solidifying its military presence amid rising tensions.

In a recent interview, we spoke to rescue workers who reported that Israeli airstrikes in Khan Younis resulted in at least 38 fatalities, as confirmed by the Hamas-run health ministry. Among the casualties, tragically, were nine children from a single family, highlighting the devastating impact of the conflict on civilians.

The Israeli military, however, stated that its operations in the Khan Younis area were aimed at targeting Hamas fighters and dismantling infrastructure, expressing skepticism regarding the casualty numbers that have been reported.

Moreover, the situation has escalated with Israel reportedly conducting raids on one of the last operational hospitals in northern Gaza. The World Health Organization indicated that it has lost contact with medical staff at Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahia, near the besieged Jabalia area. The health ministry alleged that Israeli forces detained medical personnel, patients, and displaced individuals within the hospital.

In defense of their actions, the Israeli military explained that their operations around Kamal Adwan were based on intelligence concerning the presence of terrorist activities. As the conflict intensifies, the recent ground offensive in Jabalia has reportedly resulted in hundreds of Palestinian deaths and the displacement of tens of thousands, as Israel seeks to prevent Hamas fighters from regrouping.