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The lesser-known trails often overshadowed by the UK’s famous long-distance paths, such as those starting in Chester and winding through the enchanting countryside, provide rewards that are equally abundant.

I began my adventure at 8:45 AM, stepping out of The Queen at Chester hotel and into the bustling midweek scene. Delivery vans maneuvered through the busy streets, taxis were queued at the train station, and commuters filled the sidewalks. As I navigated through the crowd, I felt like a wanderer setting out for distant lands—well, not too distant. With a warm cup of coffee in hand and the sun shining down, I took my first strides on a 13-mile hike along the Baker Way. A nearby pigeon cooed from a pub roof, signaling the start of my journey.

In the UK, discovering a good walking path is never a problem. The Ramblers report there are over 140,000 miles of footpaths, byways, and bridleways across England and Wales. While many of these trails traverse iconic landscapes, most stray far from mountain ridges or national parks, each offering its own distinctive charm.

The Baker Way, named in honor of Jack Baker—a former footpath officer for Cheshire County Council—was established in the mid-1980s as a quietly delightful route, standing in stark contrast to the well-known yet still unfinished King Charles III England Coast Path.

Starting at Chester station, the Baker Way gracefully transitions from urban life into the tranquil Cheshire countryside, all without the crowds typically found on other trails. This hike can be completed in a day, concluding conveniently at another rail station—Delamere Station, nestled among woodlands—with direct trains back to Chester.

As I departed Chester, I quickly uncovered what makes this trail unique. Just moments into my hike, I joined the peaceful towpath of the Shropshire Union Canal. I passed a picturesque steam mill, a local Waitrose, and a Victorian water tower, gradually distancing myself from the city’s busyness. Lush willows leaned over the water, while moorhens foraged near the locks. Narrowboats drifted by with whimsical names that captured the leisurely spirit of the walk: Happy Soul, Foggy’s Notion, Sanity at Last.

A cheerful “Morning!” echoed as I reached the Point of Exchanging Hellos on the trail—an unspoken bond among fellow hikers who delight in this shared experience of walking. Our paths intersected momentarily, and in that fleeting moment, we shared a connection that words couldn’t encapsulate.

By 10 AM, I found myself surrounded by waving willowherb while swallows swooped overhead, with fields of ripening maize stretching out before me to the east. The signs pointing the way were the quintessential hallmark of a minor UK hiking trail—well-intentioned yet sporadic. Meanwhile, the countryside thrummed with vibrant green scents, and even as the sky playfully shifted between bright sunshine and overcast, I felt certain of one thing: today was shaping up to be remarkable.

Jack Baker was not only instrumental in establishing the Baker Way but also a founding member of the Mid-Cheshire Footpath Society (MCFS) in 1961. Organizations like MCFS, The Ramblers, and Slow Ways tirelessly advocate for and maintain public rights of way, ensuring trails like the Baker Way remain accessible for future generations. David Kendall, the current chairman of the MCFS, shared with me, “We have over 1,200 miles of footpaths in Mid-Cheshire. We organize weekly walks, intending to cover a third of our network each year while monitoring the paths’ conditions and reporting any issues to local councils. Our society comprises about 100 members, with around 40 active walkers volunteering their time.”

As I reached the midway point of my hike, enveloped by lush ferns, the stresses of daily life began to melt away. The trail wound over packhorse bridges, dipped into harvest-ready fields, and meandered through verdant pathways, leaving behind only stinging nettles as companions while cheerful chiffchaffs and fluttering cabbage whites danced around. It was a moment of pure bliss, armed with just my well-packed lunch and a well-worn OS map.

Upon arriving in the quaint village of Tarvin, characterized by leafy lanes and traditional timber houses, I decided to take a break. Stopping at Cornichon, a stylish café right along my route, I casually asked the server if Baker Way walkers often pop in. He looked a bit confused and replied, “Where does that go again?” This moment highlighted the trail’s relatively low profile among hikers.

Continuing along the Baker Way toward Delamere, surrounded by hawthorn hedges and winding wooded paths, the joy of solitude was palpable. With no urgent schedule, I took my time, savoring the peace. I passed a farm truck where two builders were peacefully napping, catching sight of two wobbly foals frolicking in their meadow. Sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting dappled shadows across the trail.

While the Baker Way may lack the dramatic scenic highlights or breathtaking rock formations of other trails, its true value lies in its simplicity. The trail offers stretches of open fields and serene woodlands, making it an ideal retreat from the daily grind.

Throughout my journey, I encountered a few less-than-ideal sections: two busy roads to cross, a field where maize blocked the path, and a tricky stretch alongside busy traffic as I approached Delamere Forest—but these were minor nuisances. With only 215 meters of elevation gain, I arrived at the end of the trail feeling pleasantly exhausted. Delamere Station, with its historical stone architecture and vintage banners, has been transformed into a charming café where I enjoyed a Cheshire Cat ale while waiting for my train back to the city.

Countless footpaths like the Baker Way exist—trails that may not have the same prestige as the UK’s more famous paths, yet hold immense value. David Kendall passionately reflected, “Walking paths like the Baker Way allows you to tune into the rhythms of life and the seasons. It brings you closer to nature, and that’s why so many of us cherish it. It truly lifts the soul.”

For additional details about the Baker Way, the Mid-Cheshire Footpaths Society provides a downloadable guide featuring route instructions, while Visit Cheshire offers further information about walking in the region.

Metropolitan Museum Roof Garden: A Childhood Amidst War

This year, the Metropolitan Museum’s annual roof garden exhibition features Kosovo artist Petrit Halilaj and his installation “Abetare.” This exhibition reflects on the trauma of children in war zones through art. Halilaj, born in 1986 in Kosovo, was forced to leave his home during the Yugoslav Wars in 1998. His work draws inspiration from the graffiti he created during his childhood at school. Located in the museum’s roof garden, the exhibition offers viewers both artistic installations and stunning views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline. It will be on display until October 27 (Sunday), and visitors can access it with a museum ticket, while New York City residents can enter for free with valid ID. For more details, visit: bit.ly/47RN1b3.

Brooklyn Museum’s Birthday Party

The Brooklyn Museum is gearing up for its 200th birthday celebration with a two-day “Birthday Party” on the 5th (Saturday) and 6th (Sunday), inviting the community to enjoy cake together. The festivities will include music, karaoke, crafts, dance performances, gallery tours, and art-making activities, making it a family-friendly event. Guests can also share a birthday cake created by Junior’s Cheesecake. The event is free, but registration is required, with members getting priority. For more information, visit: bit.ly/4gYGpMu.

Lower East Side Library’s Halloween Screening of “Rosemary’s Baby”

As we step into October, the Halloween spirit begins to rise. The New York Public Library will screen Roman Polanski’s classic film “Rosemary’s Baby” (1968) on the 5th (Saturday) from 2 to 4 PM. The film tells the story of a pregnant woman who suspects that her neighbors and husband are conspiring against her and her unborn child, showcasing contemporary society’s anxieties and resistance regarding gender roles. The screening will take place at the Seward Park Library on the Lower East Side, just a stone’s throw from Manhattan’s Chinatown. For more details, visit: bit.ly/47OpIyY.

Urban Flowers: Floral Dolls Pay Tribute to Artists

Hudson Yards will host “Urban Flowers: ARTISTE” on the 5th (Saturday), showcasing a series of floral creations inspired by artists. Talented florists will create exquisite floral dolls, bringing artistry and nature together. The event will also feature exclusive lectures and demonstrations sharing floral design techniques, making it a perfect opportunity for flower enthusiasts to appreciate the blend of art and floral creativity. For more information, visit: bit.ly/47Mza65.

With the release of the latest educational data from New York City, Chinese-American parents might not be surprised to find that Asian students continue to excel in their grades across various subjects and grade levels. This achievement has become a norm over the past few decades. However, it’s important to note that these impressive scores aren’t simply due to innate abilities among Asian students; they are the result of hard work, seen in the dedication of students at tutoring centers and the repeated encouragement from their parents emphasizing the importance of academics over leisure.

The emphasis on education is deeply ingrained in Asian culture. For instance, at a high school located on West 84th Street in Manhattan, predominantly attended by Latino and Black students, the attendance rate sits at only 50%. Some of the recent graduates from this school have never even heard of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and show no intention of pursuing college. In stark contrast, Asian students demonstrate a strong commitment, regularly achieving attendance rates over 90%. Data show a clear correlation between attendance and academic performance—suggesting that when it comes to reaping the benefits of hard work, the high percentage of Asian students in top schools is well-deserved.

Before 2023, most American universities employed Affirmative Action in their admissions processes to protect the educational rights of disadvantaged groups, challenge class stratification, and foster campus diversity. However, this policy has led to situations where, when Asian students find themselves in competition with Black and Latino students, they are not necessarily prioritized for admission based on their high achievements. This can leave many Asian students feeling that their hard-earned grades have gone unrecognized.

Mainstream society in the U.S. often assumes that Asians are no longer part of a disadvantaged group due to their high educational attainment. However, it’s noteworthy that about 10% of Asians live in poverty, and numerous studies have indicated the presence of an invisible barrier in the workplace for this demographic. Jeannie Suk, a Korean-American professor at Harvard Law School, highlighted in a New Yorker article that a significant concern is the underrepresentation of highly educated Asian individuals in leadership and decision-making roles within society, particularly in government, the judiciary, and the media. While academic qualifications serve as a critical starting point, for Asians to gain a stronger voice in society, efforts must be made to change the current dynamics where they often feel silenced in the public sector.

In the wealthy community of Woodside, nestled in the hills of Silicon Valley, a sharp rise in insurance costs is making potential homebuyers think twice before making a move. To navigate this challenging landscape, some real estate agents are stepping up as insurance advisors, aiding clients in understanding the insurance premiums associated with properties they’re eyeing prior to submitting any offers.

According to a report from the San Jose Mercury News, Cara Gamble, an agent with The Agency in Danville, has taken a proactive approach to checking insurance rates for her clients. “It’s crucial to know if buyers can afford the insurance costs associated with a home before they put in an offer,” Gamble asserts. She has witnessed firsthand how several potential buyers decided against making offers after realizing that the insurance premiums were just too high.

Scott Hayes, another agent operating in Woodside, has observed a noticeable drop in the number of prospective buyers over the past year. He attributes this decline to the fact that, in high wildfire risk areas, many buyers find themselves limited to the costly FAIR Plan insurance, which is mandated by the state and managed by private insurers. “Living in this desirable area comes with a catch—you have to accept this type of insurance,” Hayes elaborates.

The situation has been exacerbated by many private insurance companies issuing non-renewal notices to homeowners throughout California, resulting in a staggering rise in FAIR Plan policies from 126,709 to 350,000. Hayes emphasizes that the unpredictability of insurance costs is significantly dampening people’s desire to purchase homes. “Why waste time looking at properties if you know you can’t afford the insurance?” he questions.

Despite these challenges, Hayes highlights that none of his clients have pulled out of contracts due to insurance concerns, as he takes the initiative to check FAIR Plan prices ahead of time. For example, he notes that the annual insurance premium for a $2 million home in Woodside can range from $15,000 to $20,000.

Meanwhile, the demand for homes in the Bay Area remains robust, which discourages buyers from using “contingency clauses” that would allow them to back out of deals based on insurance expenses, for fear of being dismissed by sellers. Melody Johnson, another agent at The Agency in Danville, maintains an updated list of insurance companies still offering policies, ready to help clients secure price quotes.

Johnson points out that many major insurance companies have ceased writing new policies, leaving only smaller, lesser-known firms willing to provide coverage.

On October 8th, a coalition of elected officials from various cities in the San Gabriel Valley, community leaders, and the Community Accountability Task Force (TACF) gathered to encourage voters to support Proposition 36. This initiative seeks to repeal certain provisions of Proposition 47 while boosting public safety across California. Local leaders stressed the importance of learning from past mistakes made by proponents of Proposition 47 and urged voters to remain vigilant as they head to the polls in November.

Among those participating were Qin Zhengguo, a candidate for U.S. Representative in California’s 38th District; Liu Longzhu, running for California’s 49th Assembly District; Nancy Targarz, a candidate for Walnut City Council; Diamond Bar Vice Mayor Deng Jiayou; Li Minni, Chair of the Walnut Valley Water District; and Guan Yixiu, head of the Community Accountability Task Force. Each of them called for an active voter turnout to support Proposition 36 in the upcoming elections.

Proposition 36 is gaining significant traction in polls as it proposes to increase penalties for drug crimes and serial thefts, effectively repealing parts of the 2014 Proposition 47. Despite cautionary words from Governor Newsom and several Democratic leaders about the possible resurgence of outdated punitive policies from the 1980s, recent polling shows that only 19% of voters oppose Proposition 36, marking a notable shift compared to four years ago.

Li Minni noted that the community’s continued efforts were instrumental in getting Proposition 36 on the November ballot. She expressed hope that Californians concerned about safety would engage in the electoral process to create meaningful change for themselves, their families, and community safety. She also called on fellow citizens to educate others about the pitfalls of Proposition 47 and the urgent need for change.

Guan Yixiu pointed out that Proposition 36 would have a direct impact on public safety for all residents and businesses. He highlighted the unprecedented public safety crisis that the East San Gabriel Valley has faced over the past decade, attributing this to voter deception surrounding the title of Proposition 47 ten years prior.

Liu Longzhu expressed dissatisfaction with various recent California laws, including one that prohibits identification checks for voters, and announced plans to file a constitutional lawsuit against Governor Newsom. He emphasized that Proposition 36 is both timely and essential for addressing issues stemming from Proposition 47, aiming to combat rampant crimes like vehicle break-ins and assaults. He lamented the toll these issues have taken on innocent community members, particularly women and the elderly.

Qin Zhengguo encouraged voters to take action, warning that abstaining from voting would effectively relinquish their rights. He cautioned that political silence could lead to citizen indifference towards safety when individuals become victims of crime.

He further highlighted that while many polls indicate strong support for Proposition 36, voters should be aware of who initially championed Proposition 47. He urged them to not only support Proposition 36 but also to consider voting for Republican candidates to help prevent the return of harmful policies that continue to inflict suffering on many residents.

Nancy Targarz, a lawyer, echoed similar concerns, recalling how Proposition 47 was touted a decade ago with promises of enhancing safety in California. However, she noted a contrasting reality where theft and violence have surged, even in traditionally safe areas like Walnut. Targarz pointed out that many serious crimes have been downgraded to misdemeanors or gone unpunished entirely. She asserted that while Proposition 36 might not fully resolve the issues arising from Proposition 47, it is a crucial first step toward reducing harm in the community.

On October 1, an exciting event unfolded in Yonghe County, Linfen City, Shanxi Province—the “Dragon Travels the Yellow River, 天下永和” 2024 “Hongyuan Cup” National Day Running Challenge at Qian Kun Bay. More than 600 participants from all over the country came together in picturesque Yonghe to enjoy breathtaking scenery, explore red culture, and immerse themselves in the unique allure of the Loess Plateau.

The race spanned approximately 8 kilometers, following the nationally recognized “Top Ten Most Beautiful Rural Roads”—specifically, the Shanxi Yellow River No. 1 Tourist Road (Yonghe Section). Starting at the low-altitude flight town in Yonghe County, the route led participants to the stunning Qian Kun Bay. This scenic road is celebrated for its breathtaking views and ecological richness, linking attractions like Qian Kun Bay, the Red Army’s East Expedition Memorial Hall in Yonghe, as well as scenic spots such as Loushan, Wanghai Temple, and Ge Mountain. The road embodies four major themes: “Yellow River Civilization, Ecological Tourism, Cultural Tourism Integration, and Rural Revitalization,” serving as a vital pathway for ecological development, cultural exploration, economic growth, and community well-being.

The challenge tested not only speed and strength but also courage and perseverance. After an intense competition, Wei Long claimed victory in the men’s category with a time of 24 minutes and 3 seconds, while Guo Liya took the top spot among women, finishing in 29 minutes and 10 seconds.

Winners were awarded a complimentary helicopter ride over the Yellow River, which not only delighted participants but also boosted enthusiasm for fitness and fostered a vibrant culture of sports and active living.

Gao Yongxian, the Party Secretary of Yonghe County, shared plans for the future: “We aim to capitalize on our rich cultural and tourism assets to elevate the standard of sporting events and infuse them with new meaning. Our goal is to turn ‘beautiful scenery’ into a ‘beautiful economy,’ thereby promoting rural revitalization.”

On October 9th, the Qingdao Guoxin Pharmaceutical men’s basketball team held their season kickoff ceremony for the 2024-2025 CBA league in the Laoshan District of Qingdao. Head coach Liu Weiwei was joined by players Yang Hansheng, Wang Ruize, and Zhao Jiayi at this exciting event.

Reflecting on last season, the team secured their playoff spot with five games to spare, finishing in ninth place. They also showcased their talent during the recent 2024 CBA Summer League held in Qingdao, where they clinched the championship with an impressive undefeated record.

As the new season approaches, the Qingdao Guoxin team has made some strategic roster adjustments while keeping key players onboard. They welcomed veteran center Jia Cheng and drafted the promising newcomer Sun Xiangxiang. Additionally, they renewed contracts with important player Myles Powell and brought in new talents Akil Mitchell and Quindarrius Weatherspoon to enhance their competitiveness.

During the kickoff ceremony, Liu Luqiang, the Secretary of the Party Committee and Chairman of the Guoxin Group, officially announced the start of the season. Coach Liu Weiwei received the team flag from Zhao Shengcun, the Vice Mayor of Qingdao, symbolizing the official launch of their journey.

When discussing the team’s objectives for the upcoming season, Liu Weiwei highlighted the goal of reaching the playoffs and building on last year’s successes. With the season just around the corner, he expressed hope that the players will navigate challenges such as physical fatigue and changes in foreign player policies, using their game experience to find their rhythm.

The new CBA league season is set to kick off on October 12th, featuring 20 teams competing across a total of 46 regular season rounds, culminating on March 31, 2025. The playoffs will begin on April 4, 2025.

In terms of league structure, Qingdao Guoxin Pharmaceutical will be competing alongside Liaoning Benxi, Shenzhen Marco Polo, Guangzhou Longtai Haiben, and Fujian Jinjiang Cultural Tourism. The team will open the new season at home in the Guoxin Sports Arena on October 14th, facing off against Guangzhou Longtai Haiben.

On the night of September 22, a tragic shooting in Alabama claimed the lives of four individuals and injured 17 others. Eyewitnesses recounted a scene of utter chaos as multiple gunmen opened fire into a crowd, leaving behind over 100 shell casings scattered across the ground. Preliminary investigations suggest that this incident may have been a targeted hit, aimed at one of the victims, though law enforcement has yet to arrest any suspects.

According to a report from the Associated Press, the shooting occurred around 11 PM in a bustling area of Birmingham. Witnesses reported that the shooters fled the scene swiftly in a vehicle after the attack.

Birmingham Police Chief Scott Thurmond shared insights during a statement to CNN, indicating that evidence points to this incident being a premeditated assault. “This was intended for one specific individual, but it tragically impacted many innocent people,” he noted.

Furthermore, investigators discovered more than 100 spent shell casings, raising concerns that the assailants might have illegally modified their firearms into fully automatic weapons, capable of converting semi-automatic handguns and rifles in under a minute.

As of now, authorities have not apprehended any suspects and are working closely with the FBI and other agencies in their investigation. They are also encouraging anyone with information to step forward, reassuring potential anonymous tipsters that they could receive a reward of up to $5,000.

Monkeypox (Mpox) is currently ravaging the Congo, prompting the World Health Organization to declare it a global public health emergency just last week. In light of this situation, should the American public be concerned?

On October 1, 2023, the M511 Light and Shadow Hub officially opened its doors in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, unveiling a state-of-the-art audiovisual space that features three standout projects: the 8K immersive experience “Deep Space Future,” the VR exhibition “Eternal Notre-Dame,” part of the China-France Cultural Year, and the environmentally themed musical “Tea Without This Person.” This initiative aspires to fuse light, technology, and art, heralding a new era of digital entertainment in Zhejiang.

The M511 venue, situated at 511 Xixi Road in Hangzhou, has a rich history as a former film warehouse for Zhejiang Film Company, serving as a testament to the illustrious past and aspirations of the region’s cinematic landscape over the last seven decades. It encapsulates the nostalgia and vision of local filmmakers.

We had the opportunity to speak with Lin Liang, the Secretary of the Party Committee and Chairman of the Zhejiang Cultural Industry Investment Group. Lin shared his views on how to harness historical and cultural assets through innovative technologies, products, and services to craft a new model of urban cultural tourism integration. “We strongly believe that content is king, but we also understand the importance of form. Our commitment lies in deeply exploring cultural heritage, nurturing creativity, and enhancing the transmission of culture. Right now, we’ve rolled out three main themed projects: ‘Deep Space Future,’ ‘Eternal Notre-Dame,’ and ‘Tea Without This Person.’ Looking forward, we aim to keep innovating in content, settings, and operations, reinforcing the cohesive functioning of cultural spaces through what we call the ‘Zhijiang Model,’” he elaborated.

Using the “Eternal Notre-Dame” VR exhibition as a prime example, Lin highlighted how this project artfully recreates the splendor of Notre-Dame Cathedral. By wearing VR headsets, participants can become time travelers, experiencing the intersection of Eastern and Western cultures through an engaging mix of virtual and real-world encounters.

The project collaborates with top global VR technology firms to develop an “immersive VR experience space for classic IPs.” Furthermore, partnerships with entities like the Zhejiang Ancient Architecture Design Institute and the cloud-based wooden toy initiative “Yunhe” allow for a unique interdisciplinary exhibition called “Thus is Tradition.” This innovative fusion of ancient architecture with modern technology provides consumers with fresh opportunities for engagement.

At the launch event, the “Future Laboratory” innovation community was formally established. The Zhejiang Cultural Investment Group has plans to collaborate with universities and businesses to evolve the M511 Light and Shadow Hub into an innovation factory that fosters creativity through the integration of industry and education.

Importantly, the flexible design of M511 allows for rapid transformation into a variety of environments, such as technology museums, art galleries, black box theaters, amusement parks, and future schools, maximizing audience interaction.

In closing, Lin Liang stated, “We are determined to uphold international standards and aim to be at the forefront of addressing the cultural needs of the public. Our vision is to create engaging cultural experiences where history comes to life, stories invite participation, cultural artifacts are tangible, and lives can be shared, thereby offering new cultural opportunities for both residents and visitors.”