Climate change is extending growing seasons, providing urban farmers with the chance to increase their production.

Supporters of a designated property tax for Lexington public parks launched their 'Vote Yes for Parks' campaign at Woodland Park. Gas prices in Kentucky are falling, with a significant drop from last year. Lexington police continue to investigate a recent shooting at El Cid on National Avenue, seeking witness information.

Raise the Wage Ohio is actively collecting signatures to propose a constitutional amendment aimed at increasing wages, reflecting ongoing political and labor rights efforts in Ohio.

The 'Citizens Not Politicians' amendment proposes to replace the current Republican-driven commission with the Ohio Citizens Redistricting Commission, pending voter approval. This change aims to create a more democratic redistricting process in Ohio.

Members of the Tuscarora Nation of North Carolina are advocating for a House bill to gain formal state recognition as an American Indian tribe, a struggle that has historical roots dating back to the 1700s. House Speaker Tim Moore indicates the bill is unlikely to progress due to opposition from the neighboring Lumbee Tribe. Additionally, the article explores the experiences of three transmasculine individuals undergoing significant hormonal changes in adulthood, discussing the impacts on their lives and identities.

Major League Baseball has permanently banned San Diego Padres infielder Tucupita Marcano for betting on baseball and suspended four other players for one year. University of Pittsburgh administrators responded to ongoing pro-Palestine protests, blaming protesters for vandalism and alleging no affiliation with the school. Dozens of Pittsburgh public schools will switch to remote learning due to high temperatures. Pittsburgh officials announced the opening of 15 pools this summer. The Peabody Memorial to Soldiers was restored as part of a project at Obama Academy. The Pittsburgh 2030 District reported a 48% reduction in carbon emissions in 2023. Protesters demand direct communication with Pitt Chancellor Joan Gabel regarding university investments. Democrat Eugene DePasquale and Republican Dave Sunday are rebuilding their cash reserves ahead of the November election.

More than 60% of Americans in hurricane-prone states are not planning to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season, despite predictions of potentially the most active tropical season to date. Officials emphasize the importance of readiness. SC Emergency Management Director Kim Stenson discusses the forecast of above-average hurricane activity. The article also touches on recent legislative actions by Governor Henry McMaster.

In April, the University at Buffalo hosted adaptive yoga teacher Matthew Sanford to train yoga teachers and medical professionals and educate the community on body to mind resilience. Sanford, also an author and founder of the non-profit Mind Body Solutions, was interviewed by WBFO’s Emyle Watkins. The interview is part of the Disabilities Beat series and is available in full on the What's Next? program.

The article discusses the threat posed by aquatic invasive species to the Lake Erie watershed and nearby regions. It highlights efforts to mitigate these threats and emphasizes the importance of public awareness and action.

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster commended the General Assembly for raising teacher salaries and cutting taxes in the 2024 session but sees more work ahead. York County residents faced a double ordeal with a damaging April hailstorm and aggressive roofing salespeople. A solar panel manufacturer's facility plan was rejected by the York County Board of Zoning Appeals, potentially affecting 800 jobs. Upcoming discussions include Richard Hatcher on his book about Fort Sumter and Kevin Duffus on the history of Charleston's first lighthouse. The South Carolina Lede podcast covers Senator Lindsey Graham's comments on weapons shipments to Israel, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin's commencement speech, and a roundtable on state legislation. French Gates expresses pride in the Gates Foundation's work as she plans to step down as co-chair.

North Carolina and South Carolina have the most restrictive public sector collective bargaining laws in the U.S., prohibiting all government employees from unionizing. Despite this, educators in Durham, North Carolina, continue to advocate for representation. The Broadside explores the implications of being a union in a state where striking and collective bargaining are illegal, reflecting on the history of labor organizing in the South.

Small business owners in China, like Zhang Mancheng, are struggling due to the ongoing COVID-19 restrictions and economic slowdown. Many are hoping for changes following the National Congress of the Communist Party, but signs indicate a continuation of current policies. Economist Dan Wang highlights the unpredictability and impact of lockdowns on businesses. Some, like Fox Li, are considering leaving China due to economic and political concerns. The situation remains dire for many, with hopes pinned on potential future improvements.

Peking University, known as the Harvard of China, has introduced its first Yiddish language course, taught by assistant professor Yang Meng. The course has attracted 30 students, including medical student Huang Zijing, who are eager to learn about Jewish culture and history. Yang aims to dispel stereotypes about Jewish people and address global anti-Semitism through her teaching. The course uses media clips and cultural context to enhance learning. Students appreciate the broader cultural exposure and the lessons in adaptation and preservation of endangered languages.

Harinitesh Selvakumar, a student at Hebei Medical University, is among hundreds of thousands of international students waiting to return to China to resume their studies after being stuck abroad due to COVID-19 restrictions. Despite the Chinese government's recent announcement lifting the entry ban for international students, many universities have yet to issue the necessary permission letters. Students face challenges such as high flight costs and mandatory quarantine expenses. Experts like Curtis Chin and Philip Altbach highlight the broader implications for China's educational soft power and the prioritization of international students in Chinese universities.

China remains a dominant force in the global lingerie industry, hosting the largest trade show and being the largest exporter. The China International Brand Underwear Fair in Shenzhen showcased the country's manufacturing prowess despite reduced foreign participation due to Covid-19 policies. Shenzhen and the Pearl River Delta are key hubs, but new centers like Guanyun county in Jiangsu are emerging. Lei Congrui's Midnight Charm exemplifies this shift, growing from a small workshop to a major player. Rising labor costs and near-shoring trends are fragmenting the industry, but China retains a competitive edge due to its comprehensive supply chain and growing design expertise. Despite challenges, including international scrutiny and pandemic disruptions, China continues to innovate and adapt, maintaining its significant role in the lingerie market.

Jay Chou, a Mandopop megastar, has released his first album in six years, featuring the hit song 'The Greatest Works of Art.' The music video, which includes time travel and magic, has garnered 167 million views on Chinese social media and broken album sales records in China. Despite mixed reviews, with some critics finding the lyrics meaningless and others praising Jay Chou's consistency, the song has been a significant hit this summer. Fans like Lillian Zhang and Han Jia express long-term admiration for Jay Chou, highlighting his iconic status in the music industry.

Ultimate Frisbee is rapidly gaining popularity in China, with clubs like the Shanpo Frisbee Club in Shanghai seeing significant growth. The sport's inclusivity and social aspects are attracting a diverse group of participants, including many women. Social media platforms like Douyin and Xiaohongshu have played a crucial role in promoting the sport. The Chinese government has also recognized the sport's potential, incorporating it into the physical education curriculum and planning a national league. Despite some friction with soccer players over practice space, the sport's positive impact on participants' lives is widely acknowledged.

Wee Meng Chee, known as Namewee, is a Malaysian Chinese singer-songwriter whose controversial music often addresses political and social issues. His song 'Fragile,' which criticizes China's patriotic keyboard warriors, has been banned by the Chinese government but has gained significant popularity on YouTube. Namewee discusses his creative process, the importance of pan-Asian collaborations, and the challenges of censorship in Malaysia. He emphasizes the significance of his controversial work and announces his upcoming album 'High Definition & Uncensored,' which will feature uncensored versions of his songs.

During Shanghai's lockdown, a trend of 'blessings videos' featuring African children parroting Chinese greetings spread on social media. These videos, criticized for exploiting Africans, are produced by entrepreneurs across Africa. BBC journalist Runako Celina's documentary 'Racism for Sale' uncovers the exploitative nature of this trend, revealing that children earn very little and sometimes face abuse. Despite claims that the videos support local communities, the documentary has sparked calls for wider conversations about anti-Blackness and racism. The Chinese man behind a particularly racist video was arrested, and civic groups in Malawi demand justice for the children involved.

China's abortion policies have shifted significantly due to a declining birth rate and the consequences of the one-child policy. Christina Wang's personal story highlights the challenges faced by women under the old policy and the current reluctance to have more children due to high costs and lack of social support. Demographer Yi Fuxian criticizes the one-child policy and notes the government's current efforts to reduce abortions and encourage births, though he believes it will be difficult to reverse the trend.

Shanghai is experiencing an exodus as residents, disillusioned by the city's stringent zero-COVID-19 lockdown, seek to leave. Migrant workers, educated individuals, and expatriates are among those fleeing. The lockdown has eroded trust in the government, with many planning to move abroad. The article highlights personal stories of residents affected by the lockdown, including mental health issues and logistical challenges in leaving the city.

China's domestic tourism is poised for a resurgence as lockdown restrictions ease, with Shanghai set to return to normal life. Travel operators anticipate a gradual release of pent-up demand, particularly for nature-based and non-urban destinations. Fashion and beauty brands are exploring creative ways to engage with consumers, leveraging trends like glamping and independent excursions. Key destinations include Shanghai, Hainan, Macau, and emerging spots like Aranya, Zhoushan Archipelago, and Beihai. The domestic travel boom presents opportunities for retail, pop-up events, and marketing campaigns, with brands like Prada, Gucci, and Dior already tapping into these trends. Duty-free shopping zones are also expanding, with new developments in Guangzhou and other regions.

Shanghai's elderly population remains vulnerable under the city's strict COVID-19 lockdown, with many not fully vaccinated due to fears of side effects and chronic conditions. The World Health Organization has criticized China's zero-COVID-19 strategy as unsustainable, but concerns remain about the healthcare system's capacity to handle a surge in cases if the policy is abandoned. Experts emphasize the importance of vaccinating the elderly to protect them, citing Hong Kong's high COVID-19 death rate due to low vaccination rates among older people. Despite the challenges, elderly residents like Wu Li Kai and Wang Yili continue to follow government directives and take precautions.

Merchant mariners, including Madeleine Wolczko from Washington state, are stranded on their ships near Shanghai's port due to a COVID-19 lockdown that has lasted over six weeks. The crew, aboard a container ship requiring maintenance, has been restricted to the vessel for nearly three months, facing challenges such as lack of electricity and plumbing issues. Wolczko has been documenting the experience through photography and a video series, which includes candid interviews with crew members like Ernesto Lagramada. The lockdown has suspended shore-leave and caused extended shipping delays, impacting the global economy and the merchant marine industry. Shanghai officials aim to lift the lockdown by June 1, but the ship remains unseaworthy, and the crew's return home is uncertain.

Delivery drivers in Shanghai, like Liu Yongliao, have become essential during the city's strict COVID-19 lockdown, working long hours under challenging conditions to deliver necessities. Despite the high demand and potential earnings, many face difficulties such as lack of proper accommodations and increased living costs. The lockdown has highlighted the precarious nature of gig work, with drivers racing against algorithms and dealing with limited legal protections. Volunteers like Lewis Li have stepped in to support these workers, but criticisms of the authorities' handling of the lockdown persist.

A fast-moving outbreak of the Omicron COVID-19 variant in Shanghai has led to public outcry over China's policy of separating children from their parents in quarantine facilities. Parents and experts criticize the policy for its negative impact on children's mental health and family dynamics. Despite a recent government concession allowing some parents to stay with their children, concerns remain about the policy's implementation and effectiveness. The situation has sparked widespread anger and protests, both domestically and internationally, highlighting the challenges of China's stringent zero-COVID measures.

Li Jianguo, one of the last remaining lantern craftspeople in Shanghai, dedicates his life to making traditional rabbit lanterns, a craft passed down through generations. Despite the rise of mass-produced lanterns, Li continues to create intricate, handmade lanterns to preserve cultural heritage. Zhou Qi, an author documenting Shanghai's artisans, highlights the dwindling number of traditional craftspeople. The article underscores the cultural significance of these handmade lanterns and the challenges faced in keeping the tradition alive.

China is intensifying its efforts to win gold medals at the Winter Olympics, employing strategies such as recruiting foreign athletes and transitioning summer sports athletes to winter events. Despite a focus on participation, the allure of winning remains strong. Key figures like Eileen Gu have already achieved success, while others like Beverly Zhu faced criticism. China's long-term strategy includes investing in infrastructure and targeting less popular sports, with hopes of significant future gains.

Plant-based meat alternatives are gaining popularity in China, driven by environmental concerns and a growing market for vegetarian and vegan options. Multinational and local brands like Oatly, JustEgg, Beyond Burger, and Z-Rou are entering the market, supported by companies like Green Monday. The Chinese government aims to cut meat consumption by half by 2030 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Despite the rise of plant-based foods, traditional meat consumption remains strong, with brands like Five Guys and Shake Shack also expanding. The shift towards plant-based diets is seen as a way to balance environmental goals with cultural preferences.

Jump roping has become a competitive sport in China, influencing primary and middle school students' grades. Schools set targets for students, such as 100 jumps a minute for first graders, and proficiency in jump roping can impact final grades and high school entrance exams. Parents, like Yolanda Cheng, have enrolled their children in activities and even cram classes to improve their skills. Education expert Lenora Chu explains that this trend reflects the Chinese education system's emphasis on testable skills. Despite the pressure, some parents appreciate the focus on physical education, noting improvements in their children's abilities.

In response to a herd of 14 elephants' 800-mile journey to Kunming, China, efforts are being made to promote coexistence between humans and elephants. Initiatives include a national elephant park and 'canteens' with protected lands for elephants to feed on during treks. The elephant population in Yunnan Province has nearly doubled since the 1990s due to legal protection, leading to increased human-elephant encounters. Conservationists and villagers are working on projects like the elephant canteen and reforestation to encourage wildlife to return and reduce conflicts.

The Chinese war film 'Battle at Lake Changjin' has become a box-office hit, glorifying the Chinese military's role in the Korean War and resonating with current nationalist sentiments amid China-US tensions. The film, commissioned by the government, is seen as educational by Chinese audiences and serves as a reminder of historical conflicts. Experts highlight the film's role in promoting patriotism and the Chinese Communist Party's narrative, while also noting its Hollywood-style production and the significant sacrifices made by Chinese soldiers.

The Chinese government has imposed strict regulations on online gaming and other technology sectors, limiting minors to three hours of gaming per week and targeting companies like Tencent and NetEase. These measures are part of a broader crackdown on the tech industry, including restrictions on online education and celebrity culture, aimed at reducing the influence of technology on society and ensuring data control. The regulations are seen as part of Xi Jinping's strategy to strengthen his political legitimacy ahead of the Chinese Communist Party Congress, with a focus on making China a leading manufacturing powerhouse and reducing dependence on the US.

Factories in China, such as Duan Li's plastic products factory in Ningbo, are struggling with shipping container shortages and increased costs due to pandemic-related restrictions. China's zero-tolerance COVID-19 policy, which includes shutting down terminals for single cases, has caused significant disruptions in the global supply chain, leading to higher costs and potential empty shelves during the holiday season. Experts like Jarrod Ward and Sal Mercagliano highlight the need for businesses to have contingency plans and for consumers to shop early. Despite the challenges, many in China, including business owners like Kurt Huang, support the government's approach, believing it has allowed for normalcy and economic stability.

George Nissen, an Iowa native, invented the modern trampoline, inspired by his acrobatic background and a desire to improve his gymnastic and diving skills. With his coach Larry Griswold, Nissen developed the trampoline from spare parts and junkyard scraps. The invention gained popularity for both entertainment and training purposes, used by the military and NASA. Nissen's daughter, Dian, a trampoline coach, recounts her father's efforts to make trampoline a competitive sport, leading to its inclusion in the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney. George Nissen's legacy continues through the Nissen Cup and the joy of trampolining he spread worldwide.

Ice cream is gaining immense popularity in China, with shops experimenting with both sweet and savory flavors. Specialty destination popsicles and innovative gelato flavors are attracting tourists and locals alike. Shanghai is a hub for trendy ice cream, with shops like Bonus Gelato and Gelato Dal Cuore leading the way. Owners Lu Xiaoxun and Gerard Low emphasize less sweet, more complex flavors that appeal to Chinese tastes. Unique offerings like Earth Gelato and Shanghai Scallion Noodle Gelato are becoming social media sensations, reflecting a growing market similar to the coffee boom in China 30 years ago.

Feminist and LGBTQ activists in China are facing online censorship, with social media accounts being shut down. Activist Li Maizi's Weibo account was closed after she defended another feminist online. Liang Xiaowen, a US-based feminist activist and lawyer, sued Weibo for shutting down her account without explanation. Author Leta Hong Fincher suggests that the Chinese government perceives feminism as a threat due to its impact on birth rates. Despite the crackdown, activists like Lu Pin remain determined to continue their work. The recent policy changes allowing couples to have three children have received a tepid response from Chinese women.

A new TV show, 'A Little Dilemma,' highlights the intense pressure Chinese parents and students face regarding the gaokao, China's college entrance exam. The show contrasts two parenting styles: 'chicken parenting,' which is highly demanding, and 'happy education,' which is more relaxed. Parents and educators discuss the realism of the show, reflecting on their own experiences with the education system. Despite government guidelines to reduce student stress, many parents feel the pressure remains unchanged, impacting their children's well-being and future prospects.

Zhang Hong, a blind man from China, has become the first blind person in Asia to climb Mount Everest. He was inspired by Erik Weihanmayer, the first blind person to summit Everest. Zhang trained rigorously, facing the challenge at age 46 during a pandemic. Despite fear and reliance on his guide, Qiangzi, Zhang reached the summit, experiencing the moment through the sound of the wind rather than the sight. He only felt a sense of accomplishment after safely descending the mountain. Zhang now aims to complete the Explorers Grand Slam. The documentary team leader, Fan Lixin, highlighted the universal courage needed to face one's own Everest.

Ayana Najuma, an American teacher in China, finds solace in the country's safety and is excited to join one of China's first official Juneteenth celebrations in Shanghai. Bruce Robinson, an executive coach, and William Frazier, a long-time resident and business owner, are among the organizers aiming to foster a sense of community and support Black-owned businesses. The event holds special significance for Black Americans in China, offering a chance to celebrate their heritage and connect with others despite the challenges of international travel during the pandemic.

The tragic death of 21 runners, including top-ranking ultramarathoner Liang Jing, during a race in Gansu has highlighted significant safety concerns in China's ultramarathon events. Elite runner Kate Hill and expert Liu Yong criticize race organizers for inadequate safety measures and lack of proper training for mountain trail running. The Chinese government has temporarily banned extreme sports competitions, prompting calls for stricter safety protocols and better education for both organizers and participants. The incident has sparked a broader discussion on the need for improved safety standards in the sport.

A new film, 'The Six,' uncovers the untold stories of six Chinese men who survived the Titanic sinking. These men, professional sailors, faced scapegoating and racism, both during the disaster and afterward due to discriminatory policies like the Chinese Exclusion Act. The documentary reveals their struggles and resilience, drawing parallels to modern anti-Asian hate crimes. The film aims to shed light on these historical injustices and their lasting impact on descendants.

China's recent policy change allowing families to have three children has been met with skepticism and humor by many citizens, who cite financial and practical challenges as barriers to having more children. Despite the government's efforts to address the declining birth rate, many urban couples, already burdened with the costs of raising children and caring for aging parents, are reluctant to expand their families. The policy is perceived as out of touch with the economic realities faced by the middle class, and there is a general sentiment that without substantial support, the policy will not achieve its intended goals.

Chinaplas, the plastics industry's first global show since the pandemic began, saw a significant drop in overseas visitors due to China's mandatory two-week quarantine, with only 577 of the 44,000 attendees on the first day being non-mainland Chinese. Rebecca Kanthor interviewed three individuals who underwent quarantine to attend the event in Shenzhen. Patrick Kwan from Samsonite Asia, based in Hong Kong, attended to visit vendors and spent his quarantine time in various activities, including playing the saxophone. Tao Cornier from ESOPP SAS, based in France, managed the company's booth design and passed quarantine time working and reading. Rex Hsieh from Multitech Machinery Ltd., based in Taiwan, described his quarantine in Xiamen as a nightmare but found the trip worthwhile for business opportunities in China.

Fifty years after the first official American delegation visited China to play pingpong, original players are advocating for renewed diplomacy amid rising tensions between the two countries. The 1971 games, which led to President Nixon's visit to China and the normalization of US-China relations, are remembered as a significant diplomatic event. At a recent ceremony in Shanghai, former Chinese team members and diplomats called for cooperation and peace, despite current difficulties. The event highlighted the enduring symbolic power of 'pingpong diplomacy' in fostering international relations.

Travel for Chinese New Year has significantly decreased due to COVID-19 concerns, with many people opting to stay in place despite the Chinese government's strong discouragement of travel rather than an outright ban. The usual festive atmosphere is subdued, and many are celebrating through video calls and local gatherings. The unpredictability of local government policies and the fear of lockdowns have influenced people's decisions. Businesses like China Skinny have adapted their marketing strategies to reflect the theme of being apart during the holiday.

China faces challenges in vaccinating its 1.4 billion population, aiming to inoculate 70%. Despite rolling out Sinopharm and Sinovac vaccines, low infection rates have hindered domestic trials. Many citizens, like Laura Liang and Huang Cui Xia, are hesitant due to safety concerns and the rapid development of vaccines. The lack of urgency in China's vaccine rollout is attributed to its effective pandemic control, but this success may now impede vaccination efforts. Additionally, China's commitments to supplying vaccines to other countries complicate its domestic rollout. Experts like Winnie Yip and Yanzhong Huang highlight the need for more data and stronger incentives to encourage vaccination.

Wuhan residents reflect on how the COVID-19 lockdown transformed their lives, with many turning to volunteer work and community support. Wang Fan, a restaurateur, and his friends, including Jiang Qi and Evan Zou, engaged in various charitable activities during the lockdown. Despite facing business struggles post-lockdown, they found new purposes and continued to support local causes. Evan Zou moved to Shanghai for a fresh start, while Wang and Jiang opened a new brewpub in Wuhan, remaining optimistic about the future.

Wuhan, known as China's punk capital, is witnessing a gradual revival of its indie music scene post-COVID-19 lockdown. Key venues like Wuhan Prison and Vox Livehouse are reopening, with local bands gaining more opportunities due to travel restrictions on foreign bands. Musicians like Jiang Daqiao and Tu Dou have used the lockdown period for creative inspiration, while others like Wu Wei face challenges due to travel restrictions. Despite the resurgence, the live music scene remains fragile, with potential disruptions from new COVID-19 cases.

A year after Wuhan's lockdown, the city has transformed a temporary COVID-19 hospital into a museum celebrating the government's pandemic response, while some residents, like Yang Min and Zhang Hai, seek justice for lost loved ones, criticizing the government's initial handling and alleged cover-up. Despite the official narrative of recovery, underlying anxiety persists among the populace, with some preparing for a potential second wave. The vaccine offers a glimmer of hope, but the city remains vigilant.

Hairy crab season in China is a highly anticipated time, with people flocking to restaurants and markets to enjoy the delicacy. Despite their popularity in China, hairy crabs are considered an invasive species in countries like the United States and the United Kingdom, leading to legal restrictions and efforts to control their spread. The COVID-19 pandemic and weather conditions have impacted the crab farming business, but demand remains high, with prices increasing due to reduced supply. The article highlights the cultural significance of hairy crabs in China and the challenges faced by farmers and sellers.

Chinese students unable to attend universities in the US and Canada due to pandemic-related travel restrictions have formed 'study pods' in co-living communities like 706 Life Lab. They face challenges such as time zone differences and isolation. Emily Mao, a student at the University of British Columbia, and Bowen Zheng, a philosophy major at Wake Forest University, share their struggles with remote learning. The 706 Labs, founded by Wu Fang Rong, offer a sense of freedom and control for students. Education consultant Tess Robinson notes that some students are opting for gap years due to the inconveniences of remote learning. Mao plans to return to campus despite concerns, while others continue to manage overnight classes.

China, amid a booming esports industry, has introduced new regulations to manage and support the sector while curbing internet addiction. The League of Legends World Championship in Shanghai highlighted the country's significant esports fanbase. Major brands like Nike, Mastercard, and Mercedes Benz are investing in esports, recognizing its appeal to both young gamers and older consumers with purchasing power. The Chinese government faces challenges in balancing regulation and support for the industry, implementing restrictions on younger players and certain game content while promoting esports as a profession. The evolving landscape offers opportunities for economic growth and job creation but also presents challenges in managing the online activities of gamers.

The NBA has been working diligently to mend its relationship with China following a controversial tweet by Houston Rockets' general manager Daryl Morey supporting Hong Kong's pro-democracy protesters. The tweet led to a ban on NBA broadcasts in China, significantly impacting the league's financial interests. In response, the NBA has made various public and private gestures, including sending medical supplies during the pandemic and hiring a Chinese national to head NBA China. These efforts have led to the lifting of the broadcast ban for the final playoff games. The situation highlights the delicate balance of international sports diplomacy and the significant economic influence China wields.

American companies in China are adapting their strategies to avoid the political tensions between the US and China, with some shifting from US to European suppliers to mitigate the impact of tariffs. Despite the trade war, many US companies remain committed to the Chinese market, recognizing its importance. The US-China Business Council highlights the challenges and advises companies to avoid risks associated with the political crossfire. The article discusses the potential complications for US companies due to conflicting regulations between the two countries.

In response to a new outbreak of COVID-19, Qingdao has initiated a plan to test all 9 million residents. The testing process, which began late Sunday, has already seen over 3 million people tested by Tuesday morning. This large-scale testing approach, previously implemented in Wuhan and other cities, is part of China's strategy to control future outbreaks. Despite the testing, daily life in Qingdao continues with schools and public transport operating normally. The government uses big data monitoring to facilitate the testing process, and residents receive reminders through various channels to get tested. The testing is expected to continue throughout the week.

The article discusses Joe Biden's promise to pressure China to stop financing coal plants abroad as part of his climate change strategy. It highlights the challenges of convincing China, which is heavily investing in coal projects through its Belt and Road Initiative, to shift towards greener energy. Experts suggest that competition, rather than confrontation, might be a more effective approach. The article also contrasts Biden's climate policies with those of President Donald Trump, emphasizing the global stakes of US-China cooperation on climate change.

Parents in China are struggling to balance work and childcare during coronavirus lockdowns. With schools closed and e-learning assignments being sent out, many parents are working remotely while managing their children at home. Online support groups and platforms like TikTok are being used to share experiences and cope with the situation. The article highlights the challenges faced by parents, including interruptions during work calls and limited time to work while children are awake.