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Frustrated by the lack of action from authorities, the village residents have banded together to bring attention to their plight. They have written letters, organized meetings, and staged protests to demand that the government allocate funds for the repair and maintenance of the rural roads. Their calls for help have not gone unheard, as local officials have visited the village to assess the situation and pledged to take steps to address the issue.Woolston Brass will perform a fundraising event for theChristchurch City Mission on Monday 16 December, whichstarts inside the Cathedral then moves outside intoCathedral Square at 7pm. The first part of theconcert, inside the Cathedral, will be livestreamed from6.45pm - 7pm on Christ Church Cathedral Reinstatement Ltd(CCRL) Instagram and Facebook pages. At 7pm, the30-strong band will move outside Cathedral Square andperform to the public until about 7.45pm. It’s thefirst instrumental performance inside the Cathedral sincethe earthquakes in 2011. Woolston Brass generalmanager Todd Turner said they did not hesitate when CCRLinvited them to play inside. “Founded in 1891,Woolston Brass are of the same vintage as the Cathedral. Wehave missed it. The Cathedral has lots of memories for usand so many amazing musicians have playedthere." “We are so sad that the reinstatementproject has had to pause. This is our way of showing oursupport for the Cathedral and raising some much-needed fundsfor the Christchurch City Mission.” “We and CCRLare two charities joining forces for another, the CityMission, at Christmas.” Limited spots are stillavailable to visit the 10-metre City Mission Christmas treeinside the Christ Church Cathedral apse, continuing thepre-quakes’ tradition where members of the public wouldeach year leave Christmas gifts for children in need underthe City Mission tree. The Anglican Church remainsfirmly committed to reinstatement of Christ ChurchCathedral. While construction is paused, there has been nopause in work by CCRL to find solutions that will see theproject completed. Chairman Mark Stewart reiteratedCCRL’s continued endeavours as careful custodians of theCathedral now that the heritage fabric has been secured andprotected. Mark Stewart said that even though the CCRLteam has reduced from 5.8 full-time equivalent staff to 1.8,they are keeping funding conversations alive withGovernment, Council and donors. “We will continue toprotect our city’s heritage, our taonga. As well as aspiritual place, our Cathedral is a symbol of human andsocial accomplishment. A thread that connects generations.That is what motivates ourendeavour.”
Ms Cheryl Sim with her husband Tommy Liu and daughter Elora Liu at their home. SINGAPORE - Ms Cheryl Sim felt she had been thrown into the deep end taking care of her baby after she gave birth in October 2022. She barely saw her husband, who works two jobs to support the family, and had no one to see her through her postpartum depression, which was triggered when the infant, her first child, cried. The 38-year-old had the help of her mother-in-law during that first stressful month, but it had been years since the older woman had handled a newborn baby and she sometimes did not know what to do. Stressed over her low milk supply and sleep-deprived from having to pump breast milk every three hours, Ms Sim’s mental health spiralled. At baby Elora’s one-month check-up, the doctor was concerned enough to refer Ms Sim to a social worker, who introduced her to KidStart. The eight-year-old programme supports the development of children in lower-income homes in areas like nutrition and parenting strategies. “The assurance really helped me in just not letting me feel like I’m helpless and alone in this journey,” Ms Sim said. “I know I have ready support behind me, I can just text and ask, I don’t need to be left hanging.” A five-year study evaluating families on the programme from 2017 to 2022, with the aim of assessing its effectiveness and potential for wider adoption, found KidStart to be helpful for both parents and children. The programme will have nationwide reach in 2025 when the last three towns – Queenstown, Clementi and Jurong East – come on board. Ms Sim’s KidStart practitioner came to her home every month to check in with her and address her questions, from the appropriate water temperature for bathing her daughter to what to do when the baby refused to take the bottle. KidStart practitioners are trained professionals who are qualified or experienced in early childhood, social work, counselling, psychology or social services. The programme’s curriculum consists of six core modules spanning child development, child safety, health and nutrition, quality parent-child interaction and family well-being. Close to 10,000 children have participated in KidStart since 2016. A recent study by the Centre for Evidence and Implementation (CEI) on a sample of 264 families found that KidStart home visits led to improved parenting, social support and child outcomes. At 12 months, KidStart parents were less stressed, perceived themselves to be more competent than before, and had better social support and more positive interactions with their child. By the age of three, KidStart children also showed improved socio-emotional and daily living skills, and were better able to adapt and socialise than children who were not on the programme. The 133 families enrolled in KidStart were compared with a control group of 131 families not on the programme. The research team took 10-minute videos of parent-child interactions to assess the levels of affection, responsiveness, encouragement, and teaching in the parents’ behaviour. Ms Sim recounted how when Elora threw a tantrum, she would sometimes shout back, unable to control her emotions. “I have friends who share with me they will feel ‘heart pain’ for their kids when they see them crying – they actually sympathise with their baby. But for me, it was anxiety triggering.” Through her KidStart practitioner, she learnt to reframe her thought process when she was agitated by Elora’s tantrums and to take deep breaths to regulate her emotions before she spoke. “I told myself that I need to calm down because I want to be a role model for Elora.” Now, when Elora refuses to put away her toys, Ms Sim sits beside her and waits till both of them are calm before asking the child to put away the toys together with her. The practitioner also explained to her that babies cry and fuss because they do not know how else to express their needs. Over time, Ms Sim got better at reading Elora’s cues and will now prompt her if she feels hungry, tired, or wants something else. Her KidStart practitioners assured her Elora was hitting her developmental milestones in speech and walking, and her pre-school teachers said she did not throw tantrums in school. The practitioner also reminded Ms Sim not to neglect herself, and to continue to do things she liked, such as watching dramas or listening to music, on top of caring for her daughter. Ms Cheryl Sim with her husband Tommy Liu, daughter Elora Liu, and KidStart practitioner Pek Gui Ting at her home. PHOTO: KIDSTART The CEI study also found that first-time parents showed more positive parenting behaviour and improved parenting competence after joining the programme than parents joining the programme who had other children. This suggests the importance of reaching families early, from their first-born, said the report. Where the programme was less effective, however, was with families with moderate to high levels of need. There, caregivers continued to have more symptoms of stress and depression and less positive parenting behaviour. Their children also tended to have poorer behaviour, motor skills, and social-emotional development. About half of KidStart families have moderate to high needs for support in child development and other family functions, said KidStart chief executive Rahayu Buang. They include teenage mothers, single mothers, or families with many children and no social support, said Dr Cheryl Seah, director of CEI. Some parents could also be incarcerated or have health issues, she added. Higher-risk families may require more support such as financial assistance, employment opportunities and stable housing, problems that family coaches under ComLink+ – a government initiative to support lower-income families – or family service centres can help with, said Madam Rahayu. The Government will expand KidStart home visits to support these children from the mother’s pregnancy till the child turns six. “Our aim is to support 80 per cent of children zero to six years old who are eligible for KidStart,” said Madam Rahayu. Eligible families have a monthly per capita income of $650 or less. Ms Sim and her family will be on the programme till Elora is six. She encouraged more families to be open to joining KidStart, especially first-time parents and those who have no family support. “Everybody will say ‘why don’t you have another kid?’ They think it’s easy to take care of a child. Nobody really emphasises the tough journey, the downsides,” she said. “KidStart really helps me recognise that it is a very tough thing that is mentally exhausting on parents, and besides focusing on the child’s development, they really do it as a holistic thing for the whole family.” Get the ST Smart Parenting newsletter for expert advice. Visit the microsite for more. Read 3 articles and stand to win rewards Spin the wheel nowWhile it is essential to protect individuals' right to privacy and prevent unauthorized photography, it is also crucial to approach such situations with sensitivity and restraint. Accusations of misconduct should be handled diplomatically and with respect for all parties involved, to prevent conflicts from escalating into potentially volatile situations.
This shift towards banwei can be observed in various aspects of young people's lives. Many are now opting for cozy nights in with friends rather than wild nights out on the town. They are choosing to prioritize self-care and relaxation, whether it be through meditation, yoga, or simply taking a leisurely stroll in nature. The emphasis is no longer solely on productivity and achievement, but on finding a sense of inner peace and balance.
Gallup: Gun Ownership Higher Among Republican Women Than Democrat Men66,438 Shares in Corsair Gaming, Inc. (NASDAQ:CRSR) Purchased by Quest Partners LLC
Smokers have been urged to kick the habit in the new year after new analysis shows how much of their lives are lost by each cigarette smoked. Men lose 17 minutes of life with every cigarette they smoke while a woman’s life is cut short by 22 minutes with each cigarette, experts have estimated. This is more than previous estimates, which suggest that each cigarette shortens a smoker’s life by 11 minutes. The new estimates, which suggest that each cigarette leads to 20 minutes loss of live on average across both genders, are based on more up-to-date figures from long-term studies tracking the health of the population. Researchers from University College London said that the harm caused by smoking is “cumulative” and the sooner a person stops smoking, and the more cigarettes they avoid smoking, the longer they live. The new analysis, commissioned by the Department for Health and Social Care, suggests that if a 10-cigarettes-a-day smoker quits on January 1, then by January 8 they could “prevent loss of a full day of life”. By February 20, their lives could be extended by a whole week. And if their quitting is successful until August 5, they will likely live for a whole month longer than if they had continued to smoke. The authors added: “Studies suggest that smokers typically lose about the same number of healthy years as they do total years of life. Make 2025 the year you quit smoking for good. There’s lots of free support available to help you. Find out more 🔽 https://t.co/J0ehnoRM1D pic.twitter.com/LQpUp6HJBm — WHH 🏥 (@WHHNHS) December 27, 2024 “Thus smoking primarily eats into the relatively healthy middle years rather than shortening the period at the end of life, which is often marked by chronic illness or disability. “So a 60-year-old smoker will typically have the health profile of a 70-year-old non-smoker.” The analysis, to be published in the Journal of Addiction, concludes: “We estimate that on average, smokers in Britain who do not quit lose approximately 20 minutes of life expectancy for each cigarette they smoke. “This is time that would likely be spent in relatively good health. “Stopping smoking at every age is beneficial but the sooner smokers get off this escalator of death the longer and healthier they can expect their lives to be.” Dr Sarah Jackson, principal research fellow from the UCL Alcohol and Tobacco Research Group, said: “It is vital that people understand just how harmful smoking is and how much quitting can improve their health and life expectancy. “The evidence suggests people lose, on average, around 20 minutes of life for each cigarette they smoke. “The sooner a person stops smoking, the longer they live. “Quitting at any age substantially improves health and the benefits start almost immediately. “It’s never too late to make a positive change for your health and there are a range of effective products and treatments that can help smokers quit for good.” There are so many reasons to quit smoking this New Year – for your health, for more money, and for your family. Make a fresh quit for 2025 – find tips and support at https://t.co/GyLk65o8kS or https://t.co/iW6WLxTL00 pic.twitter.com/KxPZ5N378y — North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust (@NTeesHpoolNHSFT) December 27, 2024 Health officials have said that smokers can find advice, support and resources with the NHS Quit Smoking app, as well as the online Personal Quit Plan. Public health minister Andrew Gwynne said: “Smoking is an expensive and deadly habit and these findings reveal the shocking reality of this addiction, highlighting how important it is to quit. “The new year offers a perfect chance for smokers to make a new resolution and take that step.” Commenting on the paper, Professor Sanjay Agrawal, special adviser on tobacco at the Royal College of Physicians, said: “Every cigarette smoked costs precious minutes of life, and the cumulative impact is devastating, not only for individuals but also for our healthcare system and economy. “This research is a powerful reminder of the urgent need to address cigarette smoking as the leading preventable cause of death and disease in the UK.”
TikToker teaching science hopes short-form video will become part of curriculumEmbark on a thrilling journey in the world of "Celestial Chronicles: Legacy of the Ancients," an action-packed RPG that immerses players in a fantastical realm filled with magic, mystery, and adventure. With stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and a rich storyline, this game is a must-play for fans of the genre.
The series of investment promotion events organized by SpeedSell showcased the platform's latest features, advantages, and success stories to potential merchants. Through interactive sessions, workshops, and presentations, the events provided insights into the benefits of selling on SpeedSell and how merchants can leverage its resources to reach a broader customer base.In conclusion, the A-share market's high opening followed by a midday retreat with a substantial increase in trading volume reflects the ongoing market uncertainties and investor sentiment. The total turnover exceeding 1.5 trillion yuan underscores the market's resilience and active trading environment. As the market continues to navigate challenges and opportunities, investors must remain vigilant, adaptable, and well-informed to make informed investment decisions in the evolving market landscape.
A TikToker who went viral teaching science videos predicts short-form video will make its way into the national curriculum after 2024 saw him publish a new book and win a TikTok award. Emanuel Wallace, 27, from east London, is better known as Big Manny by his 1.9 million followers on TikTok, where he shares videos explaining various science experiments from his back garden while using Jamaican Patois phrases and London slang. In early December, Mr Wallace won the Education Creator of the Year award at the TikTok Awards ceremony, which he said is a “symbol that anything that you put your mind to you can achieve”. The content creator began making videos during the coronavirus pandemic when schools turned to online learning but has since expanded his teaching from videos to paper after releasing his debut book Science Is Lit in August. He believes his “unconventional” teaching methods help to make his content relatable for younger audiences by using slang deriving from his Jamaican and British heritage. “The language that I use, it’s a combination between Jamaican Patois and London slang because I have Jamaican heritage,” the TikToker, who holds a bachelors and masters degree in biomedical science, told the PA news agency. “That’s why in my videos sometimes I might say things like ‘Wagwan’ or ‘you dun know’. I just want to connect with the young people more, so I speak in the same way that they speak. “The words that I use, the way that I deliver the lesson as well, I would say that my method of teaching is quite unconventional. I speak in a way that is quite conversational.” Examples of his videos include lithium batteries catching fire after being sandwiched inside a raw chicken breast, as well as mixing gold with gallium to create blue gold, earning millions of views. Mr Wallace hopes his content will help make the science industry more diverse, saying “the scientists that I was taught about, none of them look like me”. “Now me being a scientist is showing young people that they can become one as well, regardless of the background that they come from, the upbringing that they’ve had,” he said. “I just want to make it seem more attainable and possible for them because if I can do it, and I come from the same place as you, there’s no reason why you can’t do it as well.” The TikToker has seen a shift in more young people turning to the app as a learning resource and feels short-form videos will soon become a part of the national curriculum in schools. “I’m seeing (young people) using that a lot more – social media as a resource for education – and I feel like in the future, it’s going to become more and more popular as well,” he said. “I get a lot of comments from students saying that my teacher showed my video in the classroom as a resource, so I feel like these short form videos are going to be integrated within the national curriculum at some point in the near future.” He also uses his platform to raise awareness of different social issues, which he said is “extremely important”. One of his videos highlighted an anti-knife campaign backed by actor Idris Elba, which earned more than 39 million views, while his clip about the banning of disposable vapes was viewed more than 4.6 million times. He said there is some pressure being a teacher with a large following online but hopes he can be a role model for young people. “I’m aware that I am in the public eye and there’s a lot of young people watching me,” he said. “Young people can be impressionable, so I make sure that I conduct myself appropriately, so that I can be a role model. “I always have the same message for young people, specifically. I tell them to stay curious. Always ask questions and look a little bit deeper into things.” His plans for 2025 include publishing a second Science Is Lit book and expanding his teaching to television where he soon hopes to create his own science show.As the delays continued to mount, social media was abuzz with speculation and frustration from customers who felt left in the dark about the status of their orders. Some took to online forums to share their experiences and seek answers from fellow buyers, while others expressed their disappointment in scathing reviews and comments.Supreme Court judge Justice Bhushan Ramakrishna Gavai underscored the critical need for improved infrastructure in the district and taluk-level judiciary, which plays a key role in the judicial system. Stressing on the necessity of ensuring speedy justice, especially in criminal cases, Justice Gavai said that the judicial system should adopt modern technology. Justice Gavai was speaking after inaugurating NSTEP (National Service and Tracking of Electronic Processes) in criminal cases at Telangana State Judicial Academy at Secunderabad on Saturday. He pointed out that without robust physical and technological support, the full potential of judicial reforms cannot be realised. He highlighted the necessity of better infrastructure facilities in courtrooms and better human resources at the district and magistrate courts for fortifying the system at the district level. He noted “Investment in district judiciary is about ensuring justice at every nook and corner...swiftly and fairly”. NSTEP is a system of serving, processing and monitoring summons electronically. A GPS-enabled device is given to the bailiff leading to greater transparency and speedy delivery. It provides real time status updates of service summons. Chief Justice of the Telangana High Court Justice Alok Aradhe said that Telangana was the first state to introduce NSTEP in civil cases. NSTEP in criminal cases will help in cutting time in judicial processes of serving summons. High Court judge Justice Sujoy Paul also spoke the technology’s resourcefulness in criminal cases.
Moreover, the chemistry between the lead actors, played by the talented duo Li Ming and Zhang Yan, is palpable and electrifying. Their on-screen interactions pulsate with raw emotion and undeniable chemistry, drawing viewers into the tumultuous yet irresistible world of Li Jia and Zhang Wei.
In conclusion, the beta version of "The Sixteen Songs of Swallows and Clouds" sets a new standard for storytelling in the realm of gaming, offering players a compelling and unforgettable journey that captivates the senses and stirs the imagination. With its innovative approach to narrative design and immersive gameplay mechanics, the game promises to be a groundbreaking and immersive experience that will leave players eagerly anticipating the full release.Subscribe to our newsletter Privacy Policy Success! Your account was created and you’re signed in. Please visit My Account to verify and manage your account. An account was already registered with this email. Please check your inbox for an authentication link. Support Independent Arts Journalism As an independent publication, we rely on readers like you to fund our journalism. If you value our coverage and want to support more of it, consider becoming a member today . Already a member? Sign in here. We rely on readers like you to fund our journalism. If you value our coverage and want to support more of it, please join us as a member . MINNEAPOLIS — For five decades now, Sophie Calle has been probing human connection, emotional impulses, and vulnerability via fictional devices, dry humor, and an unapologetic impropriety. In Sophie Calle: Overshare at the Walker Art Center, the artist scrutinizes strangers, family and friends, and herself, exploring desire via keen observations about social convention and its accompanying wants and needs. In 1981, Calle hired a private investigator to follow her through the streets of Paris, taking pains to ensure that he didn’t know she employed him. The detective’s resulting black and white surveillance photographs make up one-half of “The Shadow,” on view at the Walker. In one grouping of five photographs, Calle is seen walking away from the camera, or hidden by a tree branch; some images are blurry. Whereas contemporaneous works such as “Suite Vénitienne” (1980) and “The Hotel” (1981) saw Calle spying on others — taking photos of strangers and the belongings of hotel guests while she worked as a maid, respectively — here, she flips the gaze toward herself, becoming the subject and the star. In her text, Calle describes the pleasure of being watched. “I do not sit at our usual table, but closer to the window, and order a cafe creme,” she writes. “It is for ‘him’ I am getting my hair done. To please him.” Calle’s enthusiasm for her role as subject speaks to a broader cultural fixation with artists’ muses, à la Dora Maar inspiring Picasso, or Edie Sedgwick inspiring Andy Warhol. In the 1992 film “No Sex Last Night” (retitled “Double Blind” in 1996), Calle grapples with a desire to be a muse for her collaborator Greg Shephard, as well as to use him as her muse in turn. Each equipped with a video camera, they film each other and record their private thoughts during a drive from New York to San Francisco. At several points in the film, Calle’s camera lingers on an unmade bed in the morning, her voiceover intoning “No sex last night.” At a certain point in the film, she simply says “No,” indicating they yet again didn’t make love. Get the latest art news, reviews and opinions from Hyperallergic. Daily Weekly Opportunities The film speaks to a culture that emphasizes women cultivating desirability, rather than pursuing their own desire. In a voice-over translated by subtitles, Calle recalls one conversation with Shephard in which he asks her why she looks sad. “I told him I had been contaminated by his lack of desire,” she says, the camera lingering on the car’s side mirror, which reflects the barren desert and mountains. In “On the Hunt” (2020/24), Calle sorts archival personal ads by time period, panning out from individual desire to the larger sociological and historical forces at play in its makeup. Pairing ads by men on one side and women on the other, she highlights the unique dating trends of the time. Personals culled from the 19th century, for instance, focus on marriage and money, while physical disabilities emerge as a factor during wartime and afterward. Above each decade sits either a photograph of a hunting stand or a surveillance image of a hunted animal, emphasizing the animalistic instinct that underlies the search for a mate, no matter the time period. In line with a half-century career as an aloof but impassioned observer, the work reveals the loneliness of the human heart in Calle’s signature brutal, ironic way. Sophie Calle: Overshare continues at the Walker Art Center (725 Vineland Place, Minneapolis, Minnesota) through January 26, 2025. It then travels to Orange County Museum of Art, Costa Mesa, California from March 7–June 1, 2025. The exhibition was organized by Henriette Huldisch, Erin McNeil, and Brandon Eng . We hope you enjoyed this article! Before you keep reading, please consider supporting Hyperallergic ’s journalism during a time when independent, critical reporting is increasingly scarce. Unlike many in the art world, we are not beholden to large corporations or billionaires. Our journalism is funded by readers like you , ensuring integrity and independence in our coverage. We strive to offer trustworthy perspectives on everything from art history to contemporary art. We spotlight artist-led social movements, uncover overlooked stories, and challenge established norms to make art more inclusive and accessible. With your support, we can continue to provide global coverage without the elitism often found in art journalism. If you can, please join us as a member today . Millions rely on Hyperallergic for free, reliable information. By becoming a member, you help keep our journalism free, independent, and accessible to all. Thank you for reading. Share Copied to clipboard Mail Bluesky Threads LinkedIn Facebook
N orth Korean leader Kim Jong Un vowed to implement the “toughest” anti-U.S. policy, state media reported yesterday, less than a month before Donald Trump takes office as U.S. president. Trump’s return to the White House raises prospects for high-profile diplomacy with North Korea. During his first term, Trump met Kim three times for talks on the North’s nuclear program. Many experts however say a quick resumption of Kim-Trump summitry is unlikely as Trump would first focus on conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. North Korea’s support for Russia’s war against Ukraine also poses a challenge to efforts to revive diplomacy, experts say. During a five-day plenary meeting of the ruling Workers’ Party that ended Friday, Kim called the U.S. “the most reactionary state that regards anti-communism as its invariable state policy.” Kim said that the U.S.-South Korea-Japan security partnership is expanding into “a nuclear military bloc for aggression.” “This reality clearly shows to which direction we should advance and what we should do and how,” Kim said, according to the official Korean Central News Agency. It said Kim’s speech “clarified the strategy for the toughest anti-U.S. counteraction to be launched aggressively” by North Korea for its long-term national interests and security. KCNA didn’t elaborate on the anti-U.S. strategy. But it said Kim set forth tasks to bolster military capability through defense technology advancements and stressed the need to improve the mental toughness of North Korean soldiers. The previous meetings between Trump and Kim had not only put an end to their exchanges of fiery rhetoric and threats of destruction, but they developed personal connections. Trump once famously said he and Kim “fell in love.” But their talks eventually collapsed in 2019, as they wrangled over U.S.-led sanctions on the North. North Korea has since sharply increased the pace of its weapons testing activities to build more reliable nuclear missiles targeting the U.S. and its allies. The U.S. and South Korea have responded by expanding their military bilateral drills and also trilateral ones involving Japan, drawing strong rebukes from the North, which views such U.S.-led exercises as invasion rehearsals. Further complicating efforts to convince North Korea to abandon its nuclear weapons in return for economic and political benefits is its deepening military cooperation with Russia. According to U.S., Ukrainian and South Korean assessments, North Korea has sent more than 10,000 troops and conventional weapons systems to support Moscow’s war against Ukraine. There are concerns that Russia could give North Korea advanced weapons technology in return, including help to build more powerful nuclear missiles. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said last week that 3,000 North Korean troops have been killed and wounded in the fighting in Russia’s Kursk region. It was the first significant estimate by Ukraine of North Korean casualties since the North Korean troop deployment to Russia began in October. Russia and China, locked in separate disputes with the U.S., have repeatedly blocked U.S.-led pushes to levy more U.N. sanctions on North Korea despite its repeated missile tests in defiance of U.N. Security Council resolutions. Last month, Kim said that his past negotiations with the United States only confirmed Washington’s “unchangeable” hostility toward his country and described his nuclear buildup as the only way to counter external threats. HYUNG-JIN, SEOUL, South Korea, MDT/APEscalation in Ukraine Conflict: New Russian Ballistic Missile DeploymentThe United States Investigates Spain's Refusal to Allow a Weapons Ship to Dock, Sparking Diplomatic TensionsUltimately, the decision of whether to purchase tickets for Wu Bai's Nanjing concert lies with each individual fan. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and uncertainties associated with the performance, particularly in light of the ongoing retirement controversy. By staying informed and exercising caution, fans can ensure that they are making a decision that aligns with their own values and preferences.
As Sun Li and her fellow main creative team members come together once more, they will undoubtedly share fond memories of their time working on "Empresses in the Palace." From the intense acting workshops to the elaborate costume fittings, each moment of the creative process will be revisited and celebrated. The camaraderie and bond that was forged during the making of the series will be on full display, as the team members reminisce about the challenges they faced and the triumphs they achieved.1. A plug-in mushroom night-light so you can feel like you're sleeping in an enchanted forest. It activates when it's in the dark and these magical 'shrooms even change colors! You'll never have to blindly run to the restroom in the middle of the night because you'll have this cutie to guide your way. Promising review: "I LOVE this night-light. It's in my bathroom and is a lovely addition. It turns off the second the lights go on which is nice that I don't have to worry about accidentally leaving it on. Super cute and the little itty-bitty lighting element does a good job lighting, just enough so I don't have to turn the main lights on in the middle of the night." — 1Thand Get it from Amazon for $5.99 . 2. A Jack Rack for a lil' vintage vibe in your foyer if you're a music lover. It comes with four guitar plugs that you can attach to your keys to easily stick them in! You'll be so excited to "plug" your keys back in every day, it'll finally put an end to you tossing them ~wherever~ (and inevitably misplacing them). Don't we just love a unique but useful piece of home decor?? Promising review: "Super cute item and I'm so happy with my purchase! It’s not as heavy as you would think it is; it’s pretty light. But it hangs easily and looks super cute! It’s also helped my girlfriend and me a lot with keeping track of our keys! It’s now a habit for us to come home and plug our keys in! 😆 Overall, 10/10 would recommend!!" — Super Cute!!! Get it from Amazon for $33.99 (available in two styles). 3. A Michael Scott/Prison Mike dishwasher magnet that's reversible so you'll have a status update on your dirty dishes in case that, *ahem* someone, always puts dirty plates in when everything else is clean. This is so genius it deserves a Dundie award. 🏆 Promising review : "My whole family is a fan of The Office , so when I was searching for a magnet we could use on our dishwasher, this was the hands-down winner. Does it go with my farmhouse decor? Nope, not at all. But it does get the attention of two teenage boys. Had I gone with something a bit more my decor style, I can guarantee you it would not be as useful. I mean, we all would much rather see Prison Mike staring back at us than suit and tie Michael Scott, right? And there is only one way for that to happen...clean out the dishwasher!" — R. Funk Get it from Amazon for $8.99 . 4. A home -y tissue box cover to cry in style instead of pulling out tissues from a cardboard box. It could even put a smile on your face from its cuteness! Here's why BuzzFeed Shopping editor Elizabeth Lilly loves this: "I, an adult woman, cannot remember the last time I bought a box of tissues for my home. (Though I have several purse packs?!) It may have been when I most recently had a sinus infection, which I guess was 2+ years ago. But now that I’m playing house as a grown-ass person in an apartment to myself, I’m trying to be *responsible*. So obviously buying this whimsical tissue box cover we’ve featured in a million BuzzFeed Shopping posts is peak adulting. Perhaps the reason I’ve been so bad at keeping around a box of tissues is because tissues just look...kind of ugly out in the open. But not with this lil’ cover! Now it’s a ~design element~ that I’ll hopefully remember to keep full. For now, it’s filled with a square box of tissues I unearthed from my old apartment’s closet while packing; it's presently neatly housed inside the tissue box cover, providing the 'smoke' for the tiny chimney. The only downside to committing to this box is that I'll have to buy square-shaped tissue boxes only now. But I can live with that. And with my not-snotty nose." Get it from Amazon for $6 . 5. A vinyl coaster set so unique and fun, that whoever comes over will actually want to use one instead of you having to keep reminding them. When these aren't in use, they stack neatly onto the record player holder. Promising review: "I love these! They are so cute and they get compliments every time someone sees them. They aren’t too big or small and they don’t take up a lot of space on the table." — Candace Get a pack of six from Amazon for $11.99 . 6. A hilarious doormat that will 100% make your delivery person's day and also keep your packages organized! But seriously, was there room for Jack!? Hopefully your deliveries end up on the right answer. Josie B is a mom-owned small biz run by Lauren B. based in Long Beach, California that specializes in comedic mats! Promising review: "Exactly what I was hoping to get! It’s perfect!" — Aurora Get it from Josie B on Etsy for $42.60+ (available in two sizes). 7. A disco ball planter for all you groovy plant parents out there to ~elevate~ your greenery. It comes with two options for hanging (a sturdy chain and a macrame hanger), making setup a breeze! It *also* comes with an acrylic desk stand if you don't want to bother hanging it up at all! And there's an insert pot for drainage if you're using live plants. Promising review: "I’m completely obsessed with this disco planter! I really liked that it came with the option to use a drip line bottom feed system. The macrame hanger was a nice bonus too! Very cute planter that catches the light well. Looks like a million bucks in my collection ." — Angela Get it from Amazon for $20.78+ (available in three colors and three sizes). 8. An invisible shelf that looks so realistic, every time you look over to your wall, you'll think Harry Potter has cast a spell. Even though we do wish those powers were a reality, this shelf just creates an optical illusion when you put a book cover under it. Promising review: "I have several of these invisible shelves in my home. They are unique and interesting, and always attract attention. The shelves are easy to install. They come with the necessary hardware and instructions and go up quickly. I have them in spots that are too empty looking. You can place 1–10 books on them though you want at least a few to hide the shelf itself, and you'll need something bigger than a paperback for the bottommost book. These are very good quality, fun, and unique. Highly recommended." — Audrey Frances Get it from Amazon for $11.50+ (available in two sizes and packs of three). 9. A cloud-shaped magnetic key holder to stick your keychain on when you get home. It definitely *won't* rain on your parade — you'll just be smiling at this adorable piece. Promising review: "So, yes, TikTok made me buy this, but so far I really like it. It's obviously very adorable and offers a charming spot to keep my keys that works with my entryway. I'm really surprised by how strong the hold is for such a small object — I carry my car fob and a few keys and so far it's holding strong. I hung it with Command strips to avoid any potential damage to the wall and I will say make sure it's level as the hold is not so good on an angle (but that was from the original in-hand testing). Definitely recommend and for the price, I'm very tempted to get one for my at-work office ." — D. Carter Get it from Amazon for $7.98 . 10. A cow pitcher that's so cute, you won't have to set hourly alarms reminding you to drink water — you'll want to keep sipping out of this. The head turns into a cup; it's udder -ly adorable! Promising review: "Too cute to pass up! Adorable!! The size makes it great for cream for coffee or tea or simply water at your bedside. Not to be confused with the larger version — this is great for a party of one. The cow’s head is small and nests perfectly into the body. Painted decor is spot on (no pun in intended) and the glass is good quality glass." — Eleni Get it from Amazon for $13.99+ (available in two sizes). 11. A minimalist digital alarm clock to make waking up just a little more enjoyable because you'll see such a beautiful gadget on your nightstand. It also acts as a portable Bluetooth speaker, wireless charger, and night-light — a 4-in-1? Yes please! It has three brightness levels, 16 volume levels, and a rechargeable battery, and is compatible with all Qi-enabled phones. Promising review: "This is exactly what I was looking for — a bedside clock that has an alarm, LED display, radio option, built-in speakers...and then it has MORE features! I didn't expect the Bluetooth capability, ability to charge my phone, or the night-light function (with three brightness settings). It's perfect for my needs and it looks great, too! " — M. Reaves Get it from Amazon for $39.99 . 12. Or a Lego key holder that'll have people thinking you crafted it yourself (but that can be our little secret). It comes with eight 2x2 keychains that you can stick on there right when you get back from work. MP3D Shop is a small businesses that specializes in all things Lego! Promising review: "This is amazing!! The quality is great! It’s the talk of my apartment when my friends walk in!" — David Galarza Get it from MP3D Shop on Etsy for $27.06 (available in three colors). 13. A fun toilet paper holder so you can put this lil' guy to work and make sure the restroom stays stocked with TP. It comes with a hidden hook to hold the rolls and keep them secured. It comes with screws and a wall mount. You can store hand towels, tissues — basically anything that'll fit on here! Promising review: "I wanted a toilet paper holder that didn’t take up much space, kept the extra rolls off the floor, and could be installed close to the toilet. This is perfect for what we need. It won’t fit in with any of your standard bathroom decor (if you have a theme) but functionality and space is more important to me than looks. Easy to install as well." — Jamie Get it from Amazon for $34.90 (available in six styles). 14. A three-tiered ring floor lamp that's like a ring toss but ~adult~. It's the perfect mood lighting — not too harsh but also not too dark. Each ring should last up to 20,000 hours so you'll NEVER have to replace them! Brightech is a California-based small business that specializes in home lighting. Promising review : "The light is nice! It’s a unique-looking light. I love how it has three different settings so you can adjust the brightness . It fits perfectly with my reading chaise and goes well with the rest of my living room decor. The only con I have is I wish the cord was clear instead of black, it sticks out. Other than that, I love the light. I’d definitely recommend it to others." — Carmelita Joy Get it from Amazon for $79.99+ (available in three colors). 15. Some prismatic window film to fill your home with joyous rainbows when the sun shines through! (You know what they say: When life gives you sun, make rainbows! 🌈) Plus, it doubles as a privacy shield from the outside world and nosy neighbors. Promising review: "I can't tell you how surprised and delighted we were at the rainbow effect this film has. I bought it to make a window overlooking the street more private, and I thought I would appreciate seeing the rainbow colors on the window itself. But then when the light was shining on it at the right angle, it cast these beautiful rainbow colors on the wall. So I bought a second roll to put on one of our master bedroom windows that overlooks our neighbor's patio so I don't have to draw the curtains. In the morning now, the light comes in at just the right angle to pass through the rainbow prism and cast beautiful rainbow colors on the wall. And the bed. And the cat. " — J. B. Get it form Amazon for $5.99+ (available in 11 sizes and three colors). 16. A macrame fruit hammock so your groceries can *lounge* around in mid-air instead of taking up counter space. Plus, you'll be able to see all the fruits you have rather than letting them rot at the bottom of a bowl. It comes with four hooks for easy installation. BeanDaikon is a Vietnam-based small biz that was founded by Nhan, a mother of two who learned how to make macrame starting in 2020. The company's boho-inspired designs include wall hangings, shelves, nursery decor, and other accessories. Promising reviews: "This is the best thing ever! Being able to store our fruit in a very aesthetic way where you see everything is great! No more moldy fruit sitting at the bottom of the fruit bowl." — Dohie "Super cute! I got this as a gift for my friend's RV. It's so perfect for small kitchens. Keeps things tidy. Thanks so much to the seller, she was very communicative." — Jenni Get it from BeanDaikon on Etsy for $18.99+ (originally $27.13+; available in 25 colors). 17. A dino nugget pillow because these were all the rage during your childhood, and honestly, they still are. Not only will it be the perfect piece of decor for your quirky home, it's so plush that you'll be cuddling it all day long — no biting though! Promising review: "This dino chicken nugget pillow is a real Jurassic dream come true! It's the perfect cuddle companion for all the paleontologists-in-training or anyone with an insatiable appetite for comfort. Just be careful not to accidentally take a bite while you're napping, because it looks deliciously deceiving!" — LadyTee Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in four styles, two sizes, and in multipacks). 18. A lovely chenille tufted pillow so sitting on the floor can be as comfortable as sitting on a couch. You can also put it on your chair to make your WFH space more cushy! Promising review: "We bought a small one-bedroom condo and have a pullout couch for guests when they stay the night. When we have more people over, these work great as extra seating in our modest living room and stack great in the corner when we’re not using them! They are SUUUPER cozy and comfy! Just the right amount of cushion!" — Keri Brewer Get it from Amazon for $34.65+ (available in eight colors). 19. A candle warmer — doesn't it look like it would house Tinker Bell?! This floral beauty has a bulb that heats up to slowly melt the candle wax and release its aroma — now your candles will last longer *and* you don't have to worry about putting out a flame. Promising review: "I am absolutely delighted to share my heartfelt review of this enchanting lamp! Words cannot express how magical and gorgeous it is, with its perfect blend of glass, brass, and light wood. The packaging was beyond thoughtful and ensured the lamp arrived in pristine condition. I particularly appreciate the adjustable light feature, allowing me to set the perfect amount (dim, heat) . The inclusion of an extra bulb was a thoughtful touch as well. This lamp marks my first foray into candle warmers, and I must say, I have fallen in love!" — Marynelis Rodriguez Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in two colors). 20. And an incense burner that creates a waterfall effect. C'mon, you can't tell me this isn't just about the coolest thing you have ever seen! It comes with 120 incense cones with five scents so you'll be stocked for a while! Set includes: an incense burner, 120 incense cones (rose, ambergris, lily, lavender, osmanthus), a metal tweezer, and a mat. Promising review: "This incense burner is so beautiful the way the smoke flows. The fragrances are wonderful. This also very easy to use and I've had nothing but a great response. Very soothing." — Kimberly Suriano Get it from Amazon for $15.19+ (available in five colors). 21. A pack of Goldfish-shaped magnets because you couldn't possibly say no to 🎶 the snack that smiles back 🎶. They're the perfect decoration for your fridge if it's looking a lil' plain, or you can use them to hang up your to-do lists and meal plans. Note that these may not be a safe choice for homes with kids and pets who may mistake them for the real thing! Laceycakes is a small business run by Lacey Amburgey that specializes in ADORABLE magnets and accessories. Promising review: "The Goldfish cracker magnets are incredible. They look so real and can hold a surprising amount of weight!" — Hannah Get a pack of six from Laceycakes on Etsy for $9 . 22. A cactus spoon set to add some ~spice~ to your kitchen (and hopefully your food). Set includes: 1/4 tsp, 1/2 tsp, 1 tsp, and 1 tbsp spoons and a base that measures one cup. Promising review: "These are aesthetically pleasing to look at and display, but the spoons seem so big. But the times I’ve used it, and measured these with other spoons, they are same size so I guess they just look big. Great quality though!! Wow!!" — klaudia Get it from Amazon for $18.99 (available in three styles). 23. A vintage-inspired toaster because who doesn't love a retro-looking appliance? Though this baby looks ancient, it has settings for bagels and defrosting plus a removable crumb tray for easy cleanup — we love modern features! It fits four slices of bread and has adjustable browning control, defrost, bagel, and reheat settings. Promising review: "Great retro-looking toaster! Loved the color choices. Very sturdy, and toasts very well from bread to bagels. No more burnt toast! I have used this for three months and I would highly recommend this. I will be purchasing another for a family member." — Paula Eckroth Get it from Amazon for $89.99 (available in seven colors). 24. A magnetic lamp that the tech geek inside of you will love. I haven't got a clue how this happens, but when the two orbs are put together, the lamp turns on. Promising review: " This lamp is so beautiful it is a piece of art itself. I put it in my family room and it changed the style for the entire room. I feel everything in the room has been upgraded. The light is soft and warm, it isn't to bright or dark and it makes the room feel cozy. It is so pretty it's also nice just as an art figure. Well done." — Don Get it from Amazon for $39.97+ (available in four colors) 25. A set of room-darkening velvet curtains because the curtains you have right now just aren't doing the trick. These block out up to 80% of light — for all you sensitive sleepers out there, this one's for you. Promising reviews : "I am thoroughly and I mean thoroughly happy that I bought these curtains! I bought three sets (two panels each) for three windows in the living room. I bought the 108-inch as I have floor-to-ceiling windows. They just look absolutely amazing with my dark walls. The fabric is absolutely amazing — it's good quality , none of the stitching was loose or torn or anything like that, and all of the grommets were set exactly as they should be. If you're even remotely thinking about spending money on curtains... BUY THESE. ...SERIOUSLY... BUY THEM... " — Lexus Cherry "Great curtains and very aesthetic. I didn’t want the cheap-looking blackout curtains but I didn’t want to sell my left kidney for the nice ones. These are a great price, they look really nice and block light extremely well. I work night shift and now I have to worry about waking up on time rather than falling asleep in a reasonable amount of time. I would definitely recommend these." — Katy Get a set of two from Amazon for $32.79+ (available in 13 sizes and 30 colors) 26. A matching decanter and glass set that'll truly give your at-home bar a classy upgrade. It comes with four cups, perfect for a little whiskey tasting party 🎉, cheers! Promising review : "This is an elegant, well-worth-the-money product. The packaging is so beautiful that I don't even want to throw it out. It looks like a collector's item. I would definitely recommend this as a timeless gift, too." — Shereem Get it from Amazon for $39.99 . 27. A velvet storage ottoman because who doesn’t LOVE a 3-in-1 product? The lid flips over and turns into a wood serving tray while the inside makes for a roomy area to store whatever you please. Spruce up your living space with the velvet material and gold hairpin legs. Bougie AND practical! Promising review: "I LOVE my blue velvet seat. The storage capacity is great, the seat is COMFORTABLE, it is sturdy, and does not take up a lot of room. It is worth the money and actually a great deal. One of my best purchases on Amazon. I highly recommend." — Vanessa BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord also swears by hers. Here's her rave review: "I recently got one of these for my new apartment to stash my candles and ~candle accessories~ in and it's pretty much become my favorite piece of furniture?? I use it to prop up my feet during work hours and sometimes if I want to eat on my couch I'll use it as a tray. It's also sturdy enough to sit on, if I ever wanted to have guests over and needed an extra chair. It was RIDICULOUSLY easy to set up — I had it done in less than 10 minutes, and probably didn't even need the directions. It also just looks so darn cute (and comes in so many colors that I'm tempted to buy another!)." Get it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in four colors). 28. A panel of books that will fool anyone who walks into your home. Not only does it look super aesthetically pleasing, it also hides the unsightly mess of tangled cords, TV boxes, and routers. Covogoods is a woman-owned small business based in Utah. Promising review: "I’m pretty sure I’ve never loved a purchase from Amazon as much as I love this one and I’ve been a Prime member since day one. This product is EXTREMELY well made and very unique. Plus it does the job of hiding the ugly routers and cords. And the customer service was great and responsive. I was a little hesitant to spend the money on this but after years of living with the husband’s pile of technology, the money was well spent!" — AmazonEmme Get it from Covogoods on Amazon Handmade for $29+ (available in 15 colors and 14 sizes). 29. A fluffy area rug because the worst thing about getting out of bed in the morning is the cold, hard floor. Treat your feet to this super soft and shaggy rug. Promising review: "Best rug EVER!! No seriously ... it is so soft! Bought this one for our living room. We have a similar rug we purchased at Lowe's for three times the price for our bedroom and my husband and I decided that we would buy this one again instead. We are actually ordering two more for the baby's room and our middle daughter's room. So many people have complimented this rug and asked us to send them the link !" — Ashley Bryan Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in 19 colors). 30. A pom-pom throw that is is EXTREMELY soft and fluffy, perfect for cozying up on the couch — that is, if you can steal it from your dog who's going to fall in love with it. Promising review: "So this was a total impulse buy, but I’m sooo glad I bought it! Literally no dislikes. I bought the mustard yellow in the 60x80 and it’s the greatest thing everrrr. So pretty and comfortable. I’m obsessed. 🥰 I will definitely be purchasing as a gift for family and friends in the future." — Kasandra Emerson Get it from Amazon for $14.39+ (available in 20 colors and three sizes). 31. A fun jumbo clothespin hook because a towel rack is just so * yawn* normal. It works just like a normal clothespin would, all you have to do is clip in your towel — the bigger the better right? Farm and Posh is a home decor shop in Adirondack, New York, that makes custom wood pieces that are stylish and functional. Promising review : "OMG! So much fun. Unique and functional! Easy to order, arrived as advertised and on time. Made everyone who has seen it smile! I call that a win :-)" — Doris Morgan Get them from Farm and Posh on Etsy for $28.97 each (available in six finishes or an unfinished option). 32. And a mini retro-inspired Bluetooth speaker that unfortunately doesn't work like the radios back in the day but still looks the part. It's so lightweight you can bring it around wherever you go — and perhaps carry it on your shoulder like a jukebox. You can listen to your favorite songs and even take phone calls on here thanks to its speakerphone setting. Promising review : "It’s so cute! I got it in flamingo pink, which my little one loves. It’s a shiny glossy finish, beautifully and elegantly made! It’s compact, small, and portable. Very pleasant and satisfying shape aesthetically! Large power-on, volume, and pairing up buttons on the right underside and adorable blue indicator light on the left. It’s easy to pair with a phone and a laptop by Bluetooth. The sound is incredible for such a small device! Plus the built-in mic is great for using at home or in the car. It’s very convenient to charge by using a micro USB . I’m pleased with my purchase and would recommend to my friends." — Olivia Get it from Amazon for $15.99 (available in four colors). Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.The evolution of how young people interpret Qiong Yao's dramas reflects a shift towards appreciating not just the romantic elements, but also the themes of self-empowerment and agency within the narratives. Rather than dismissing the emotional depth of the characters as mere flights of fancy, viewers recognize the strength and resilience it takes to navigate complex relationships and personal growth. The "strong female lead" archetype becomes a source of inspiration and empowerment, encouraging viewers to see themselves reflected in characters who defy societal norms and carve their own paths.