Author: shuiyaoinns.com

On October 8, the Guangdong Provincial Forestry Bureau unveiled an important initiative to combat the Pine Wood Nematode disease plaguing the region. Known as the 2024 No. 3 General Order, this directive from provincial forestry officials underscores a comprehensive strategy for enhancing prevention and control efforts, aiming to create a robust ecological biosecurity framework. The plan sets ambitious targets for achieving high-quality and high-standard goals by 2025.

The management window for this disease runs from August to March of the following year. The General Order calls on forestry leaders at all levels to prioritize both afforestation and forest protection. These prevention strategies must be seamlessly integrated into local forestry management systems and broader ecological development plans to foster a greener Guangdong. Key components of the initiative include rigorous progress monitoring, secure funding, optimization of pine forests, and organized tree harvesting activities. Public involvement is pivotal, with plans for a collaborative defense system that spans various regions and departments. The importance of regular assessments to verify the quality and effectiveness of these prevention measures has been emphasized as part of ongoing oversight.

Additionally, the General Order lays out comprehensive monitoring requirements, including daily surveillance and special inspections during the fall season. Responsibilities for grid-based monitoring will be assigned to specific leaders and their teams, emphasizing detailed tracking by location. The initiative aims to prevent the internal spread of the disease and limit its introduction from outside sources. This will involve stringent inspections and registrations for businesses and individuals dealing in wood, as well as continuous “Protect Pine” quarantine actions against illegal logging and the trafficking of infected wood, while also implementing preventive measures in unaffected areas.

The General Order advocates for a cohesive professional approach to prevention, encouraging collaborative treatment strategies across regions. A key priority is the establishment of integrated management demonstration sites aimed at eradicating the disease at the county and town levels, while also ensuring the protection of ancient and culturally significant pine trees throughout the province.

According to the Guangdong Provincial Forestry Bureau, significant progress has already been made in recent years as part of the ongoing five-year campaign against the Pine Wood Nematode. Current reports indicate that more than 50% of the objectives have been achieved across all 21 municipalities, resulting in a total reduction of 810,000 acres impacted by the disease, the removal of four county-level infection zones, and the elimination of infection points in 44 towns. This marks a successful decline in the disease’s spread, as evidenced by the reduction in both infected areas and the number of affected trees.

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

In a significant move, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) announced on Wednesday that it has raised the official pump price at its retail outlets in Abuja to N1,030 per litre, up from N897 as previously stated on September 3.

This latest price hike marks a staggering increase of over 430 percent in fuel costs since the current administration assumed power on May 29, just a little over 17 months ago. Last month, the national oil company had already raised the price of petrol from an earlier official rate of N617 per litre to N897.

The recent adjustment comes shortly after the NNPC cited substantial financial constraints due to an enormous debt of approximately $6.8 billion owed to international suppliers.

Reports from THISDAY indicate that many of NNPC’s filling stations in Abuja have already updated their prices to align with the new benchmark. However, independent filling stations are likely to charge even higher rates. While the NNPC typically refrains from issuing public statements regarding fuel price increases, they do communicate adjustments to depot owners ahead of any official price review.

During visits to several NNPC stations, including the Mega station at Zone 1 and the Mabushi station, THISDAY confirmed that the pumps have been recalibrated to display the new prices.

In a recent development, the NNPC also terminated its exclusive purchasing agreement with Dangote Refinery, a decision described as reluctantly accepted in the past. This shift has opened the door for other marketers to purchase petrol directly from the refinery.

On Tuesday, addressing a different issue, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), acknowledged the full deregulation of the oil and gas sector. He emphasized that market forces will now dictate prices, stating, “The oil and gas sector is fully deregulated, and the Nigerian government remains committed to promoting in-country refining. We encourage companies, including NNPC, to operate independently, following global best practices, while we provide strategic guidance without directly intervening in the operations of these companies.”

California is known for its thriving naturist communities, and one standout is the Glen Eden Sun Club, located in Temescal Valley. Often considered one of the largest naturist resorts on the West Coast, this lively club draws a dedicated group of naturist enthusiasts, primarily older adults, who appreciate the California sun and the joy of embracing nature in a clothing-optional setting.

For those planning to visit, Glen Eden Sun Club is conveniently accessible via the I-10 or I-60 highways, heading east from Los Angeles and then south on I-15 towards Temescal Valley. The club is beautifully nestled among lush greenery and secured by fences, ensuring both privacy and safety. Staff members diligently monitor the entrance to prevent unauthorized access, and photography is strictly forbidden. According to the staff, the community welcomes day visitors and permits some to stay up to a week to fully immerse themselves in the naturist lifestyle. Covering over 150 acres, the club attracts many naturist vacationers each year, and it’s worth noting that the majority of members are families. All visitors must adhere to community rules, particularly the guideline requiring participation in activities without clothing.

Founded in 1963 by Ray and Mildred Connett, Glen Eden Sun Club holds a special appeal for naturists. The club provides diverse accommodations, including RV parking and camping facilities, along with a variety of amenities such as a swimming pool, spa, tennis and pickleball courts, a gym, an art studio, a volleyball court, and ping pong tables. Guests can also enjoy a café and a dog park. A range of activities is offered, from dance performances to yoga, meditation, and strength training.

The staff emphasizes that the club represents a sanctuary for naturists, with many members choosing to stay long-term. Alex, a resident of the community, shared that he and his wife relocated to Glen Eden after retiring, feeling as though they’ve returned to their youth. They found that their previous struggles with insomnia have considerably diminished, allowing them to unwind among like-minded individuals. Additionally, the community features hiking trails that connect various activity areas and lead into the Cleveland National Forest.

For first-time visitors, there are specific guidelines to follow; visits must be booked from Thursday to Sunday between 11 AM and 2 PM. Upon arrival, guests need to register at the entrance office and show valid identification. Visitors can opt to be fully nude based on their comfort level, and newcomers may remain clothed in designated areas until they feel ready to transition into the clothing-optional environment. It’s customary for guests to carry a towel for hygienic purposes when using communal seating or facilities.

Privacy is a top priority at Glen Eden Sun Club, with strict prohibitions against photography and video recording. Like any community, respecting personal space and individual choices is essential. Appropriate behavior is crucial in this naturist setting, and any form of inappropriate conduct or harassment is not tolerated. Given Southern California’s generally sunny climate, visitors are encouraged to bring sun protection and suitable clothing for varying temperatures. For more information, you can visit their website at www.gleneden.com.

In a recent investigation conducted by “The City” and “Documented,” New York City Mayor Eric Adams is under scrutiny regarding his senior Asian affairs advisor, Zheng Qirong. Zheng has been accused of enabling Chinese government influence in Adams’ administration over the last ten years, particularly concerning efforts to suppress official Taiwanese representations.

During an interview, reporters reached out to both Zheng and the Chinese Consulate for comments, but at the time of publication, neither party had responded. Similarly, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York chose not to offer an official statement on the issue.

The investigation uncovered a substantial 2,500-page email archive linked to Zheng, revealing her significant involvement in Adams’ team. For example, in September 2016, when Adams, then Brooklyn Borough President, received invitations to both Chinese and Taiwanese National Day events, Zheng reportedly advised him to attend the consulate’s event and decline the invitation from Taiwan, acting as the office’s liaison to the Chinese community.

The emails also highlighted Zheng’s close ties with her organization, the Sino-America New York Brooklyn Archway Association, and Beijing’s Chaoyang District foreign affairs agency. It’s reported that Zheng arranged meetings between Adams and both former Chinese Consuls General Sun Guoxiang and Zhang Qiyue.

Moreover, Zheng’s influence appeared to extend to Adams’ interactions with the Chinese community in New York. Reports suggest she frequently encouraged him to engage with Chinese state media and advised him on which community events to attend. In 2015, she even facilitated a meeting between Adams and members of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, noting that one participant was a deputy minister from the United Front Work Department—an important entity tasked with fostering friendly relations abroad on behalf of the Chinese Communist Party.

Efforts to contact Zheng for comments on October 3 were unsuccessful, as her phone went unanswered. The consulate also did not respond to requests for remarks. While the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office declined to provide an official statement, sources indicated that it is common for expatriate groups to engage with both the Taiwanese and Chinese governments. However, they pointed out that the Taipei Office typically takes a collaborative approach to avoid complicating relations with local governments, contrasting with the consulate’s more coercive tactics when dealing with expatriate organizations and U.S. officials.

At a Taiwan National Day reception on the evening of October 3 in Midtown Manhattan, several officials and representatives from New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania were in attendance, including a representative from Governor Kathy Hochul’s office. Notably, there were no representatives from Adams’ administration present at the event.

In a recent interview, Heather Knight, who led the excavations for the Museum of London Archaeology, shared her insights on the remarkable discoveries uncovered beneath a newly developed square in Shoreditch, East London. Located three meters underground, archaeologists unearthed short brick foundations measuring 14 by 5 meters—an extraordinary find that significantly alters our understanding of theater history.

These ruins are part of the Curtain Theatre, where William Shakespeare’s company performed between 1597 and 1599. This stage is believed to be the original venue for iconic productions of “Romeo and Juliet” and “Henry V.” With the Museum of Shakespeare set to open next year, visitors will have the unique chance to stand—and perhaps even perform—on the very site where these legendary plays were once staged, all thanks to a glass floor over this historic area.

Shakespeare had connections with various playhouses throughout his career, including the Theatre in Shoreditch and the Globe on Bankside. While remnants of these Tudor theaters have been excavated, Knight emphasized that the Curtain Theatre offers something truly special: the authentic footprint of Shakespeare’s stage, in contrast to the modern reconstruction of the Globe.

Reflecting on the discovery of the Curtain, Knight noted how it challenged existing narratives about theater architecture. “Initially, we all assumed the Curtain was circular, like the Globe,” she explained. “But as we conducted further research, it became clear that it was rectangular.” This revelation contradicts the notion that playhouses evolved from round to more complex shapes, highlighting a distinct architectural trajectory for the Curtain Theatre. “This discovery has transformed our understanding of theater development entirely,” she asserted.

The archaeological findings prompted a significant redesign of the development plans for the area, which had originally been envisioned as a collection of Victorian warehouses transformed into residential and office spaces. Project manager Adam Yang of the design firm Perkins & Will indicated that as excavations progressed, the site’s historical significance became increasingly apparent. “The archaeological footprint grew larger, making the museum design all the more crucial,” he remarked.

The resulting museum will feature a low steel-and-glass structure that guides guests down into a unique subterranean space showcasing the stage ruins. Scheduled to open at the end of 2025, the museum’s theme, according to director Sam Bompas, will center around a day in the life of Shakespeare. “We want to create an exhilarating experience for visitors—invoking the excitement of being in such a significant space,” he said.

While details regarding entrance fees for the attraction are still being finalized, visitors will have the opportunity to view the stage ruins through a designated window at street level. Knight raises an intriguing question about the stage’s design: “How might the Curtain’s shape and entrances have influenced the performances held there? We observe a tendency for more combat-oriented plays in rectangular theaters.”

She also reflected on the nature of “Romeo and Juliet,” describing it as more than just a love story. “At its core, it’s a series of fight scenes linked by dialogue.” Knight even discovered post holes within the foundations that would have supported an onstage balcony. Standing in the very spot where Shakespeare and his actors once performed is, she believes, an extraordinary experience.

Public transportation plays a vital role in urban mobility, providing millions of commuters with a reliable and sustainable means of travel. As cities expand, the call for effective, safe, and efficient transport systems intensifies.

In a recent interview, CEO Henry Hunye of Ultra Modern Security System (UMSS), a subsidiary of Evolution Tech Universal, shared insights on addressing these pressing challenges. He stated, “Buses, trains, subways, and trams are integral to the economic and social fabric of our cities.”

Despite the significance of public transport, Hunye recognized that increased dependence brings challenges such as security threats, operational inefficiencies, and infrastructure maintenance. “Issues like vandalism, theft, and potential threats have placed security at the forefront, while overcrowding and delays can severely impact operational effectiveness,” he noted.

UMSS is responding to these challenges with tailored, comprehensive solutions for urban and regional transport authorities. By adopting advanced technologies, the company ensures public transport facilities can meet modern needs without sacrificing safety or service quality.

Hunye elaborated on security improvements, highlighting the role of advanced surveillance systems. “UMSS provides 24/7 monitoring and incident detection. We deploy high-definition CCTV cameras throughout transport systems—covering stations, platforms, ticketing areas, and vehicles. This real-time footage allows authorities to respond promptly to incidents such as theft or emergencies. Our incident detection technologies can also identify unusual behaviors, like unattended packages, prompting immediate action.”

He further explained that UMSS employs access control systems that utilize biometric and card-based technologies at entry points to deter criminal activity. The integration of scanning technologies, such as X-ray bag scanners and metal detectors, plays a significant role in keeping dangerous items out of transport systems.

When discussing operational efficiency, Hunye pointed to UMSS’s automated fare collection systems. “These systems accept contactless cards, mobile payments, and digital wallets, which reduces congestion at ticket counters and expedites the boarding process, ultimately enhancing the passenger experience.”

He also described innovative strategies like real-time tracking and proactive infrastructure maintenance. “By incorporating GPS tracking into vehicles, UMSS enables transport authorities to monitor locations in real time, optimize schedules, and reduce delays. Our Passenger Information Systems provide real-time updates on arrivals and service interruptions through digital displays and mobile apps, helping to keep commuters informed and alleviate frustration during disruptions.”

Additionally, Hunye shared how IoT-enabled sensors monitor infrastructure conditions such as tracks and bridges, allowing for predictive maintenance that schedules repairs before critical failures occur. “When issues are identified, the system generates automated alerts for maintenance staff, ensuring timely repairs and minimizing service disruptions,” he explained.

Emergency preparedness also remains a crucial focus for UMSS. “We collaborate closely with transport authorities to create comprehensive emergency response plans for various scenarios, including natural disasters and cyberattacks. These plans aim to minimize service disruptions while prioritizing the safety of passengers and staff,” Hunye stressed. He added that backup power solutions, like generators and uninterruptible power supplies, are vital for maintaining operations during emergencies.

At the helm of UMSS’s innovative vision is Henry Hunye, the Group CEO of Evolution Tech Universal. His leadership has positioned UMSS as a frontrunner in technological advancement. Hunye’s vision revolves around integrating advanced technologies into everyday life while prioritizing sustainability and user-centered design.

His dedication to creativity and inclusivity has steered UMSS towards groundbreaking solutions in areas like artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure. Committing to ethical practices and forward-thinking strategies, Hunye imagines a future where technology not only enhances convenience but also fosters a sustainable and equitable world.

In conclusion, he remarked, “As urban populations continue to grow, the demand for safe, efficient, and reliable public transportation becomes increasingly critical. UMSS’s comprehensive solutions tackle the complex challenges encountering public transport systems today. By boosting security, streamlining operations through automation, and ensuring emergency readiness, we empower transport authorities to elevate their services and meet the evolving demands of modern urban life.”

In our conversation with Martin Kern, a professor of East Asian studies at Princeton University, we delve into his profound connection with ancient Chinese poetry and its cultural relevance. Kern is captivated by the richness of China’s cultural heritage, which he believes holds critical values and insights that resonate across time. He stresses the importance of understanding various civilizations through mutual respect and exchange, especially in our increasingly interconnected world.

Kern’s journey into sinology began in the 1980s at the University of Cologne, where he shifted from a career in journalism to studying Chinese studies and East Asian research. His focus on China garnered him a German government scholarship to study at Peking University from 1987 to 1989. It was during this period that he deepened his interest in early Chinese literature, greatly influenced by his professor, Yuan Xingpei, a distinguished scholar of classical poetry.

After completing his master’s thesis on poetry from the Six Dynasties in 1992, Kern pursued a PhD focusing on Han Dynasty poetry. Over the past twenty-six years, he has taught in the United States and expanded his research to include literary works from the Warring States, Spring and Autumn, and Western Zhou periods. His scholarly compilation, “Performance and Interpretation: Early Chinese Poetics,” features articles that examine the political poetry employed in state rituals.

Kern’s interests extend beyond poetry as an art form; he is particularly intrigued by its purposes and contextual backgrounds. He explores the meanings, functions, and societal roles of early poetry. He describes early Chinese text culture as a complex tradition intertwined with various philosophical and narrative elements. During the Han Dynasty, texts gained fluidity as authors compiled and restructured earlier materials into new works, each receiving distinctive titles.

One notable figure Kern investigates is Qu Yuan. His research illustrates that all information regarding Qu Yuan stems from the Han Dynasty, with significant contributions from scholars like Jia Yi and Sima Qian who shaped Qu Yuan’s literary portrayal. Kern emphasizes that the Han interpretation of Qu Yuan reflects a constructed narrative, embodying a “cultural memory” that can evolve.

He argues that cultural memory is distinct from historical research; it examines how we remember the past in ways that shape our current identities. Qu Yuan embodies ideals of loyalty, virtue, and patriotism that deeply resonate within Chinese culture. Kern believes that the lasting respect for Qu Yuan arises from his representation of these characteristics, which are central to China’s intellectual identity.

Additionally, Kern posits that Qu Yuan’s portrayal can resonate across cultures, reflecting universal themes of moral integrity, education, loyalty, and suffering. Since the late 19th century, various translations of “Li Sao” have appeared in multiple European languages. In 2018, Kern, alongside fellow scholars such as Paul Kroll and Stephen Owen, organized a symposium that culminated in a publication exploring innovative methodologies for studying Qu Yuan and “Chuci.”

Kern’s research bridges early Chinese literature and comparative studies, integrating archaeological insights while situating it within the wider context of world literature. He advocates for a comparative and international approach in the humanities, suggesting that future studies of Qu Yuan will continue to foster a global dialogue about cultural significance.

How can we distinguish between influenza and mycoplasma pneumonia? Additionally, what steps can elderly patients with chronic respiratory conditions take to prevent recurrence?

Let’s begin by comparing the two illnesses. Influenza, caused by the influenza virus, can sometimes lead to pneumonia. Its main symptoms include fever, sore throat, cough, and body aches. This virus can affect a wide range of people, and age isn’t the sole factor in determining susceptibility. Treatment usually involves antiviral medications.

In contrast, mycoplasma pneumonia is caused by the Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria, with a dry cough being the primary symptom, often accompanied by fever. It’s more common in children than adults and is typically treated with antibiotics. Both illnesses are generally self-limiting; mild to moderate influenza cases often resolve within 7 to 10 days, whereas mycoplasma infections may last from 10 to 14 days.

High-risk groups for influenza include children and the elderly, who are particularly vulnerable to severe cases. Older adults may experience serious complications, which might initially present atypically with significant respiratory symptoms like cough, sputum production, wheezing, and chest pain. Those with underlying health conditions can experience exacerbated issues post-influenza, and elderly patients are also at increased risk for secondary bacterial infections following influenza.

Patients with chronic diseases, as well as those who are immunocompromised—such as individuals undergoing organ transplants, chemotherapy, or biological therapies—are at greater risk for complications from influenza. Pregnant women with influenza-related pneumonia face heightened risks of preterm birth and fetal loss.

Prevention of influenza primarily hinges on vaccination. It’s advisable for eligible individuals, especially those in high-risk groups, to receive the flu vaccine as soon as possible. If someone hasn’t been vaccinated and has had close contact with confirmed or suspected flu cases, they should consult a healthcare provider about antiviral prophylaxis within 48 hours of exposure, alongside vaccination.

Mycoplasma pneumonia is becoming increasingly common among school-aged children and adolescents. If symptoms like a persistent dry cough, fever, fatigue, or chest pain arise, it’s crucial to seek medical care promptly, particularly for young children, individuals with chronic conditions, or those with weakened immune systems, such as patients with heart failure or COPD.

Currently, no specific vaccine exists for mycoplasma pneumonia. Therefore, practicing good personal hygiene is vital, including following respiratory etiquette, wearing masks properly, maintaining hand hygiene, and ensuring good ventilation in living spaces.

As autumn arrives and cooler weather sets in, how can elderly patients with chronic respiratory illnesses prevent disease recurrence?

First and foremost, maintaining proper indoor air quality is essential. This involves keeping humidity and temperature at suitable levels—ideally between 50% and 60% humidity—while avoiding significant temperature swings and excessive exposure to cold air.

Next, minimizing exposure to risk factors is key. When outside, wearing masks correctly and avoiding long stays in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces can help reduce risks. For smokers, prioritizing smoking cessation is crucial.

Additionally, adhering to vaccination guidelines, including those for influenza, pneumonia, and COVID-19, is critical.

Finally, patients with chronic respiratory diseases should commit to long-term, standardized medication regimens. It’s important to diligently follow personalized treatment plans to keep their conditions stable and to avoid stopping medications arbitrarily. Regular self-monitoring is essential; if symptoms worsen—such as increased cough, sputum production, or difficulty breathing—seeking medical attention without delay is imperative.

At the Minerva Theatre in Chichester, theatergoers are treated to a delightful blend of horror and comedy as an eclectic group of characters gathers for a will reading. Chris Wiegand brings us the details.

Picture this: if the walls of Keith Richards’ country estate, Redlands, could speak, they’d unveil a rock’n’roll history unlike any other. This infamous setting serves as the backdrop for the Chichester Festival Theatre’s current production. Playwright Carl Grose breathes new life into John Willard’s classic 1922 mystery, “The Cat and the Canary,” set in a spooky mansion loaded with secrets. The guests in this story are on high alert, anxious that the very walls might be listening to every whispered conversation.

The production opens with an eye-catching sequence that acts as both a mission statement and a captivating introduction. It mixes horror elements—a haunting nursery rhyme, a flashlight piercing the darkness, and a puppet that evokes memories of both Little Red Riding Hood and “Don’t Look Now.” Thunder rumbles, eerie laughter echoes, and unsettling piano notes resonate across Angela Davies’ sophisticated set, which features a black-and-white checkered floor creating a dizzying optical illusion, adding to the atmosphere as unsuspecting visitors arrive.

Directed by Paul Hunter, this co-production with Told By an Idiot embraces a more whimsical tone than authentic terror, particularly during the peak moments of the first and second acts—Willard’s most chilling scenes. Grose cleverly shifts the setting from the Hudson River estate to Cornwall’s Bodmin Moor, maintaining the story’s period elements while modernizing the characters. They’ve all come together to hear the will of Cyrus West, captivatingly portrayed by Reece Shearsmith in an engaging video presentation. As the plot unfolds, a crucial stipulation in West’s will comes to light: if any beneficiary is deemed “of unsound mind,” they lose their rightful inheritance.

For Willard, this clause serves as a clever plot device that propels the drama forward as the self-serving guests scheme against each other, only to fall prey to mysterious murders while a shadowy figure—who believes himself to be a feline—lurks in the shadows. Although Grose strives to add some depth through a more introspective examination of trauma and mental illness, the production often struggles to balance psychological horror with its comedic touches. Lucy McCormick shines with a physical performance that embodies the quirky tone reminiscent of her uproariously dark cabaret acts.

The narrative is richly layered, echoing the extravagant visual style characteristic of Told By an Idiot, amplifying the theatrical experience. The evening is filled with absurd delights: a clock and telephone come alive, immersive sound effects by Adrienne Quartly elevate the eerie ambiance, and hilariously comic scenes unfold under stark lights during theatrical blackouts. The dialogue sparkles with wit; for instance, when McCormick’s character asks Will Merrick’s pretentious, Hamlet-referencing actor if he fears large, empty houses, he snaps back, “Not me, I’ve played Theatre Royal Windsor!”

While the relationships between characters might not delve deeply, the quirky personalities stand out, including Hayley Carmichael’s mysterious maid, Tarinn Callender’s muscular boxer, and Nick Haverson, who deftly juggles multiple roles—including a humorous exchange with himself accompanied by a drum roll during a death scene. Although the performance doesn’t quite elevate beyond its individual elements, it flows effortlessly like an engaging montage of stylish sequences. Ultimately, it’s less about the madness within and more about the creative techniques that leave a lasting impression.

Make sure to catch “The Cat and the Canary” at the Minerva Theatre before it closes on October 26.

Former San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo is currently in the race for Congressman in California’s 16th District, where he is addressing key issues that impact residents in Silicon Valley and along the coast, including homelessness, crime, and rising living costs. On October 6th, Liccardo hosted an online meeting in Saratoga, engaging with supporters and answering their questions.

Liccardo’s campaign team highlights his innovative approach and leadership in tackling homelessness during his time as mayor. He was one of the first to transform motels into housing as early as 2016, setting a precedent four years before the statewide initiative in California. Additionally, he launched a rapid-build modular housing project designed to help homeless individuals transition off the streets. One of his notable initiatives, the “San Jose Bridge,” provided employment opportunities for homeless individuals in city clean-up efforts, in exchange for housing and wages. These efforts were instrumental in making San Jose one of the few cities in California to successfully reduce its homeless population by 2022.

During the meeting, attendees expressed concerns regarding high utility bills from Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) and sought updates on homelessness initiatives. The host facilitated a dialogue, allowing Liccardo to respond directly to the supporters’ queries. Participants also discussed local educational issues and the costs associated with ballots, offering their insights on various social challenges, all while enjoying seasonal fruits and coffee.

In his remarks, Liccardo emphasized his commitment to finding practical solutions rather than fabricating answers. He expressed a desire to bring more effective ideas to Washington through strong collaboration with the community. He underscored the need for politics to move away from clichés and partisan bickering, focusing instead on authentic solutions for the people.