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On the morning of October 10, the State Council Information Office hosted a press conference focusing on the development and utilization of public data resources. Liu Liehong, the head of the National Data Bureau, highlighted the importance of regulating the authorized operation of these resources and stressed the need for targeted institutional designs. He outlined specific requirements for authorization entities, operational institutions, and regulatory mechanisms.

The day before, on October 9, a document titled “Opinions on Accelerating the Development and Utilization of Public Data Resources” was released by the General Offices of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council, which has caught the attention of various sectors of society.

When reporters asked how to ensure equal participation and fair competition for different operating entities involved in the authorized operation of public data, Liu acknowledged the rising interest among many stakeholders. He explained that this method, which has been tested in various regions and departments, has resulted in different models—such as overall authorization, sector-specific authorization, and scenario-based authorization—each with distinct characteristics. Nevertheless, challenges remain, including unclear rules and procedures, ambiguous lines of responsibility, and a lack of operational transparency, all of which could jeopardize fair competition.

To tackle these concerns, the “Opinions” explicitly call for standardized operations regarding public data resources and advocate for institutional designs that clearly define the responsibilities and obligations of authorization entities, operational institutions, and regulatory mechanisms.

Specifically, Liu urged local regions and departments to improve the overall management of authorized operations by integrating them into their decision-making processes. Authorities need to specify which data can be authorized, determine the appropriate authorization models, set clear limits on operational terms and exit strategies, and establish safety management responsibilities for all involved parties.

Moreover, the actions of operational institutions must be regulated. Liu emphasized that these institutions must comply with authorization requirements and deliver market services equitably while prohibiting any unauthorized data use outside the agreed parameters. He was clear on the need for operational institutions to avoid monopolistic behaviors, such as colluding with other entities or abusing their market position, and to refrain from engaging in unfair competitive practices.

The “Opinions” also underline the necessity of a comprehensive supervisory framework. Data management institutions are expected to fulfill their regulatory responsibilities, ensuring that authorized institutions operate lawfully. Additionally, local regions and departments must submit reports on resource development and utilization to auditing bodies, embracing audit oversight. A disclosure mechanism for the operation of authorized public data resources is also required, calling for operational institutions to publicly share their data product and service capabilities while revealing their data usage to enhance societal scrutiny.

Liu expressed hope that these institutional designs would facilitate the exploration of authorized operations and help establish a regulatory framework for standardized practices and multifaceted oversight, ultimately fostering an open, fair, and equitable environment for developing and utilizing public data resources.

The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) is making waves in the world of professional golf by sponsoring the inaugural Professional Development Competition at Ikoyi Club in Lagos, slated for Thursday, October 10th, 2024.

In an exclusive interview, NSITF Managing Director Oluwaseun Mayomi shared insights on the organization’s commitment to encompassing professional golfers within its coverage. “It’s a common misconception that professional golfers aren’t included in our advocacy efforts,” he stated. “In reality, they absolutely fall within the categories we aim to support through our scheme.”

Mayomi elaborated on the NSITF’s mission, underlining its dedication to fulfilling the objectives laid out by the Employee Compensation Act. “Our goal is to broaden our reach and bring more dedicated citizens under our protection,” he emphasized.

He further explained that the organization is actively engaging in discussions to bring more professional athletes on board through their various associations, enhancing their compensation options with the NSITF. “This initiative is quite rare in Nigeria, especially given the unique challenges that different athletes face,” he observed.

“Ikoyi Club stands as a pillar of sports administration in Nigeria, attracting athletes from all walks of life and various sports. Our partnership with professional golf is a significant milestone in our efforts to connect with this segment of Nigerian workers,” Mayomi added.

With its reputation for hosting some of Nigeria’s finest golfers, Ikoyi Club is heralded as Africa’s largest sports club, home to an impressive roster of golf talent. “Ikoyi is arguably the most populated sports club on the continent, a fact that tends to be overlooked. It plays a crucial role as a primary employer for professional athletes, making it the ideal venue for NSITF to collect data that will inform our decision-making,” the NSITF chief executive concluded.

The upcoming competition is poised to be a standout event of the year, featuring a prestigious lineup of golfers, including former top players like Francis Epe and Sunday Olapade, alongside other distinguished talents such as Ikemefune Vincent, Paul Patrick, Michael Balogun, and Matthew Lawrence. The tournament, set as an 18-hole stroke play format, will also welcome select club members to join in the excitement.

State Farm has made a startling prediction regarding its future in California, anticipating a substantial decrease in the number of policies over the next five years. Estimates indicate that the company could lose over a million policies as it grapples with ongoing financial difficulties and plots a gradual exit from the state.

In a report from the San Jose Mercury News, it’s revealed that documents submitted by State Farm to the California Department of Insurance on September 10 project a drop in the company’s property insurance policies, including homeowners’ insurance, from 3.1 million at the end of 2023 to approximately 2 million by the end of 2028.

Since May 2023, State Farm has ceased issuing new homeowners’ policies in California, primarily due to the escalating risks associated with wildfires and surging construction costs that have increased the company’s liabilities. The documents detail that the expected decline in policies is largely due to decisions not to renew existing coverage, along with policyholders opting to cancel or switch their insurance.

However, Amy Bach, the executive director of United Policyholders—a nonprofit dedicated to advocating for insurance consumers—argues that these forecasts might not be set in stone. She suggests that policy numbers could see an uptick if the state’s insurance department enacts meaningful reforms. This could involve streamlining the approval process for insurance companies wanting to raise premiums and enabling insurers to factor in anticipated future wildfire and disaster costs into their pricing strategies, rather than relying solely on historical data.

Bach also pointed out that California’s insurance commissioner expects a market recovery in 2025, predicting that more insurers may be inclined to take on additional policies as the new year approaches. Despite the setbacks anticipated in 2024, there is a glimmer of hope for a more favorable insurance environment in 2025.

It’s worth noting that State Farm is California’s largest homeowners’ insurance provider, insuring one in five households. This year alone, the company notified 72,000 policyholders that their coverage would not be renewed starting in July.

While State Farm has not publicly commented on this forecast, they did emphasize that the number of non-renewed policies amounts to just over 2% of their total policies in the state.

Currently, State Farm is seeking the California Department of Insurance’s approval for a proposal to raise statewide insurance rates by 30%. This comes on the heels of a 20% average increase in homeowner rates enacted in March, which the company argues is essential to avert potential bankruptcy.

Consumer regulatory bodies have initiated a petition to pause these rate hikes, but the process remains unresolved, with no clear timeline for when a decision will be reached.

State Farm isn’t alone in wrestling with California’s challenging insurance landscape; it is among several insurers reducing coverage while simultaneously increasing premiums for policyholders. In August, California regulators approved an average rate increase of 34% for Allstate, affecting 350,000 homeowners, including 70,000 in the Bay Area.

**Interview with Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa: New Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force**

**Interviewer**: Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today, Air Commodore Akinboyewa. Could you share some insights about your recent appointment as the Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force?

**Air Commodore Akinboyewa**: Thank you for having me. I officially assumed this role on Tuesday after a brief yet significant handover ceremony at our headquarters in Abuja. This appointment marks a strategic shift within the Nigerian Air Force aimed at enhancing our public and community engagement efforts.

**Interviewer**: What are your key objectives in this new role?

**Air Commodore Akinboyewa**: My primary objective is to build on the groundwork laid by my predecessor. This includes overseeing media interactions, strategic communications, and effective information dissemination. I’m dedicated to fostering transparency and strengthening public trust in the Nigerian Air Force. A robust relationship with the media is crucial for accomplishing these goals.

**Interviewer**: Can you tell us about your background and what qualifications brought you to this position?

**Air Commodore Akinboyewa**: Absolutely. I hail from the Ondo West Local Government Area and graduated from the 43rd Regular Combatant Course at the Nigerian Defence Academy. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, a Postgraduate Diploma in Telecommunications and Electronics Engineering, and a Master’s in Security and Strategic Studies from esteemed institutions. Throughout my career, I have held various key command and staff roles and participated in numerous training programs, both at home and abroad.

**Interviewer**: How do you envision the media’s role in the operations of the Nigerian Air Force, particularly in the context of ongoing security challenges like terrorism and oil theft?

**Air Commodore Akinboyewa**: The media plays an essential role in our efforts to combat terrorism and other emerging crimes. I urge the media to collaborate with us, as our operations depend on collective engagement. Together, we can raise awareness and garner support for our counter-terrorism strategies and initiatives targeting oil theft and kidnapping. The collaboration between the Nigerian Air Force and the media is vital for our success.

**Interviewer**: What message do you want to communicate to the Nigerian public regarding your mission as the new spokesperson?

**Air Commodore Akinboyewa**: My message centers on a commitment to transparency and proactive engagement. I encourage the public to stay informed and participate in discussions about national security. Together, we can foster trust between the Nigerian Air Force and the communities we serve.

**Interviewer**: Lastly, what are your thoughts on how the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations can aid your efforts?

**Air Commodore Akinboyewa**: The reputation of any organization, including the Nigerian Air Force, is crucial. I appreciate the support of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations and intend to uphold our professional standards at the highest level. Working together, we can enhance the image and effectiveness of our service. Thank you for allowing me to share my vision today.

On October 5th, a New Zealand naval vessel found itself in a precarious situation when it ran aground and sank off the coast of Samoa during a coral reef survey. Thankfully, all 75 crew members were successfully rescued. This incident involved the HMNZS Manawanui, a ship that was launched just five years ago following a substantial investment of NZD 103 million (about USD 63.4 million).

Reports from Pacific media indicate that the New Zealand Defense Force confirmed the grounding took place in the evening. The crew managed to evacuate the ship using lifeboats and other vessels after the HMNZS Manawanui struck a reef near Upolu Island, the smaller of Samoa’s two main islands.

Local media shared dramatic footage and images capturing the moment the ship, which began service in late 2019, started to sink amid rising smoke. The swift loss of such a new asset prompts questions about the circumstances leading to this incident.

In a statement on Facebook, the Samoa Police Corrections and Rehabilitation Services highlighted that local emergency units, along with Australian defense personnel, worked closely with New Zealand’s rescue center to coordinate the rescue efforts.

The Manawanui was primarily involved in various professional diving, salvage, and surveying operations throughout New Zealand’s waters and the southwestern Pacific.

Ting-Yu Hu, a polar guide in Finland’s Arctic region, has been making waves in the outdoor adventure scene. Having grown up on the warm and temperate island of Taiwan, she developed a fascination for the frigid climates of the Arctic. This year marks her third winter working as a guide in the Arctic Circle. The peak season, which spans from Thanksgiving through Lunar New Year, draws travelers from all over the world eager to experience the snow and the Northern Lights, keeping her incredibly busy over the past two months.

When the rush hits, Hu often finds herself spending at least eight hours a day outdoors, leading guests through snowy forests, ice floating, sauna sessions, dog sledding, and Northern Lights tours. For Hu, a temperature of -2 degrees Celsius might feel like summer in the Arctic. Balancing her own warmth while ensuring the comfort of her guests makes her job particularly challenging, yet she thrives on the experience. “Working in the Arctic brings me so much joy that I can fend off the cold,” she shares.

“I’m someone who craves challenges, and I truly enjoy every day in the polar region. I feel like I’m really suited for extreme climates and nature!”

Hu studied Applied English in college and had the chance to exchange studies in France and Spain, which deepened her love for Europe. After graduation, she aimed to continue her journey there but missed the opportunity to apply to a Nordic school for her graduate studies. Just when she felt disheartened, a friend touring Finland mentioned a tour company looking for Chinese-speaking guides. “My friend asked if I wanted to give it a try. I applied and surprisingly got the job!”

This serendipitous turn opened the door for Hu to embrace the snowy landscapes of Northern Europe. After the snow season in Finland, she plans to work as a glacier guide in Iceland, keeping her engaged with ice and snow year-round. Living in such a harsh environment comes with unexpected challenges. For instance, the Arctic Circle experiences very short daylight during winter, and Hu recalls feeling symptoms of depression in her first month as a guide. It took some time, conversations with friends, and personal adjustments to overcome those feelings. Being outdoors for extended periods taught her how to dress appropriately, stay hydrated, and care for her skin to maintain her health. Moreover, her fitness routine has helped her handle the physical demands of transporting equipment as a guide.

Recently, Hu was selected for a polar expedition organized by Fjällräven, chosen from 15,000 applicants as one of the lucky 20. Over five days, she and her fellow team members drove husky sleds for 300 kilometers, honing their polar survival skills, such as living in the snow, pitching tents outdoors, caring for the dogs, and cooking with snowmelt.

As the second Taiwanese individual ever chosen for this event, Hu feels extremely fortunate. Reflecting on her experience, she describes it as challenging yet exhilarating. “We were all incredibly tired, and although we were on the go, I slept so well those five nights, even with the dogs barking until 1 AM!” she laughs.

At 30 years old, Hu refuses to set limitations on her life. She knows that if she starts to feel comfortable in her current job or location, it’s time to seek out a new adventure. Looking ahead, one of her New Year’s resolutions is to guide in the coldest place on Earth—Antarctica.

“I’ve been to the Arctic, and now I want to venture to the Antarctic. But if I find that I’m too cold there, I might just end up in 50-degree Dubai!”

In a recent report from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, it was highlighted that as of October 9, the “Wholesale Price Index for Agricultural Products” has reached 133.60, marking a slight decline of 0.07 points from the previous day. Additionally, the “Vegetable Basket” product index stands at 136.80, also down by 0.07 points.

As of 2:00 PM today, average wholesale prices for several agricultural products across national markets are as follows: pork is priced at 24.84 yuan per kilogram, reflecting a decrease of 1.0% from yesterday; beef is at 61.08 yuan per kilogram, down 1.1%; lamb has increased to 59.24 yuan per kilogram, up 1.4%; eggs have dropped to 10.12 yuan per kilogram, down 1.1%; and whole chickens are selling for 17.60 yuan per kilogram, down 2.8%. The average price for 28 monitored vegetable varieties is 6.29 yuan per kilogram, a decrease of 0.3%. In the fruit category, the average price for six monitored varieties is 7.21 yuan per kilogram, down 1.2%. Regarding fish prices, crucian carp is at 20.96 yuan per kilogram, down 1.5%; carp is priced at 14.63 yuan per kilogram, up 1.2%; white catfish is at 9.92 yuan per kilogram, down 3.5%; and large yellow croaker is selling for 40.73 yuan per kilogram, down 1.9%.

Among the 46 key monitored fresh agricultural products today, the most notable price increases compared to yesterday were seen in watermelon (up 4.1%), asparagus lettuce (up 1.7%), lamb (up 1.4%), carp (up 1.2%), and green peppers (up 1.2%). Conversely, the five products that experienced the largest price drops included scallions (down 3.7%), white catfish (down 3.5%), cucumbers (down 2.8%), whole chickens (down 2.8%), and spinach (down 2.6%).

In a case that has captivated public attention, Kelly Andrade, a Colombian woman, was hired as a nanny by Michael Esposito, the owner of LaRosa Grill, a fast-food chicken restaurant. She moved into his upscale Staten Island home to care for his four children. However, Kelly was shocked to discover that her employer had secretly installed a hidden camera in her room, capturing her every move, including private moments while changing clothes.

Upon discovering the camera and its memory card filled with numerous videos of her undressing, Kelly felt she had no choice but to confront Esposito, who returned home in a panic shortly after her discovery. Fearing for her safety, she jumped out of a window, injuring her knee in the escape.

Once outside, Kelly quickly contacted law enforcement, handing over the memory card as evidence. Her attorney, Zachary Holtzberg, shared that after fleeing, she had nowhere to go and ended up sleeping in a bush on the street that night. Esposito was arrested on March 24, 2021, facing charges of illegal surveillance, a felony that could have resulted in a four-year prison sentence. After completing a year of counseling, he managed to reduce the charges to attempted illegal surveillance, ultimately receiving a two-year probation.

Reflecting on the outcome, Kelly expressed her deep frustration with the leniency of Esposito’s sentence, arguing that it does not come close to addressing the emotional pain she has endured over the past three years. She highlighted that the damage done to her is irreparable and expressed a desire for him to serve time for his actions.

The case proceeded to trial in a Brooklyn federal court, lasting four days. Kelly attended three of those days while Esposito notably chose to be absent. In the end, a Manhattan jury ruled that Esposito must pay Kelly $2.78 million in damages, which includes $2 million in punitive damages and $780,000 for emotional distress. Despite the ruling, both Kelly and her lawyer felt that the compensation was inadequate, given Esposito’s wealth.

Now living in New Jersey with her husband, Kelly is undergoing treatment to address the trauma from the incident. She opened up about the difficulties of the litigation process, noting that it forces her to confront painful memories she would rather forget. Additionally, she encourages other au pairs and immigrants who have faced similar injustices to come forward and report their abusers, emphasizing the importance of speaking out without fear.

During a recent fashion week that concluded on Tuesday, the attention shifted from the typical lineup of twenty-something pop stars to an unexpected cohort of middle-aged men making bold fashion statements. Rather than the usual sight of Mamils (middle-aged men in Lycra), we observed a compelling trend featuring these men in the latest designs from Loewe.

One standout figure was 56-year-old Daniel Craig, who turned heads at the Loewe show in an eccentric knitted jumper, cargo balloon pants, unlaced hiking boots, and yellow-tinted sunglasses. Following close behind was 71-year-old Jeff Goldblum, who prioritized comfort with baggy white chinos paired with an oversized leather jacket. At the Saint Laurent runway, 60-year-old Lenny Kravitz made a striking appearance in a black and silver striped pussy-bow blouse, elegantly tucked into skin-tight trousers. Meanwhile, 69-year-old Willem Dafoe wrapped up the Miu Miu show in a cheeky white shirt with a collar peeking from under a navy jumper and unbuckled boots.

“After decades of boring suits, we’ve officially entered a fun fashion era for menswear,” declared 60-year-old Rob Lowe, who caused a stir in a deep-cut vest at the Stella McCartney show. He paired it with oversized dove-grey trousers embellished with metallic chains, exclaiming, “It’s about freaking time!” Images of these style icons generated a buzz on social media, with many applauding their daring fashion choices. GQ even referred to Craig’s style as “sublime chaos.”

Craig first captured viral attention in July with his Loewe advertisement, showcasing a fresh look that diverged from his classic James Bond image. Sporting a playful fringe, he showcased a mix of whimsical knitwear and beaded trousers. His recent appearance at the Paris show continued this fashion reinvention.

Fashion commentator Luke Leitch observed, “It might be a challenge for some to see an actor associated with the traditional male archetype of James Bond dressed like a contemporary art curator experiencing a midlife fashion crisis, but I think it’s fantastic. Ideas about what’s ‘smart’ or ‘normal’ are outdated.”

While younger stars have made headlines for breaking traditional dressing codes—such as Timothée Chalamet’s daring backless red satin two-piece at the Venice Film Festival or Harry Styles’ vibrant mesh jumpsuit—this evolution in male aesthetics among middle-aged celebrities certainly comes as a surprise. In 2022, Brad Pitt made waves when he opted for a skirt instead of a classic tuxedo, famously stating, “We’re all going to die, so let’s mess it up.”

The fashion choices of Pitt and Craig mark a significant shift away from the stereotypical macho images of the past. Andrew P. Smiler, PhD, author of *Is Masculinity Toxic?*, suggests that these changes reflect broader societal shifts in perceptions of masculinity. “As cultures evolve—particularly Western culture, which is currently undergoing considerable transformation—so too do our definitions of masculinity,” Smiler explained. “Some men cling to familiar ideals, while others embrace a more adventurous path in redefining masculinity.”

Moreover, brands are strategically seizing this trend by showcasing older celebrities who resonate with younger generations. This fusion of mainstream and internet culture is evident, as figures like 65-year-old Kyle MacLachlan have earned endearing online nicknames like “babygirl,” while Goldblum, a baby boomer, is affectionately called “Father.”

Leitch attributes part of Goldblum and MacLachlan’s appeal to their “non-conformist intelligence” that pairs seamlessly with their quirky fashion choices. Cultural commentator Jason Diamond emphasized the intrigue in watching these men evolve into their iconic selves: “There’s a stark contrast between the impressively stylized, often unattainable looks of actors like Chris Hemsworth and Ryan Gosling, and the unique realism embodied by Goldblum and Dafoe. Their individuality is what makes them truly captivating.”

In an interview with Russell Jeung, a professor of Asian American Studies at San Francisco State University, he shared alarming statistics: nearly 49% of Asian Pacific Islanders in the U.S. have encountered discrimination or violations of their civil rights. These experiences range from unjust firings or disciplinary actions at work to being denied service in restaurants or stores, overlooked when attempting to rent or buy homes, and facing bullying or unwarranted police stops based solely on their Asian Pacific identity.

Despite the significant number of individuals affected, only about one in five report their experiences. There are existing frameworks aimed at investigating and remedying civil rights violations, such as human resources initiatives in workplaces and formal reporting channels to government civil rights agencies. Yet, studies indicate that few individuals take the initiative to report these incidents.

Jeung pointed out that one major reason behind the low reporting rates is the complexity of the reporting process, which causes many to opt for silence. He noted that 56% of those who reported civil rights violations found the process itself discouraging, while 52% of those who chose not to report believed that informing law enforcement or certain activist organizations would not catalyze any meaningful change.

Though surveys may differ in their questions, they typically categorize experiences of abuse, verbal harassment, or denial of service as hate incidents. In 2022, it’s estimated that one in five Asians encountered some form of a hate incident, totaling around five million anti-Asian incidents nationwide within that year.

Jeung emphasized that while hate incidents have surged in recent years, the Asian community is also evolving, with an increasing number of individuals taking a stand. This includes storytelling events in various locations, student organizations promoting Asian studies in schools, and legislative initiatives to combat hate crimes. “More people are stepping up to oppose racism,” he remarked. However, he also pointed out a troubling consequence of strained U.S.-China relations, which can intensify racial animosity. When China is framed as an enemy, Chinese Americans often face unjust suspicion, blurring the lines between them and the Chinese government.

As the interview concluded, Jeung noted that the broader context of U.S.-China tensions has given rise to conspiracy theories about China, which fuel a surge of racist rhetoric. He observed that social media plays a critical role in amplifying these sentiments, further igniting racist attitudes among certain individuals.