Huida is a major shareholder and Serve Robotics launches a new robot to deliver food for Uber Eats in Q1 next year

On Thursday, Serve Robotics, a logistics robot startup supported by Nvidia, unveiled its third-generation autonomous delivery robot, poised to hit the streets in the first quarter of 2025, delivering for Uber Eats, a subsidiary of Uber.

In an exclusive interview, Serve Robotics CEO Ali Kashani shared insights about the new robot, stating, “They move faster, can stay outside longer, and have a larger carrying capacity,” adding that the manufacturing costs are only half of what they were previously.

The computational power of the third-generation robot is five times greater than that of its predecessor, enabling it to carry up to four 16-inch pizza boxes at once. Currently, Serve Robotics operates about five second-generation robots primarily delivering for partners like 7-Eleven on the West Coast. Earlier in August, the company announced a plan to deploy 2,000 robots for Uber by 2025, with the first batch of 250 expected in the upcoming quarter. These advanced robots are being manufactured by Magna International, a major auto parts supplier, and are powered by Nvidia chips.

Interestingly, Serve Robotics won’t be selling these robots to Uber; instead, they will operate them similarly to a contractor arrangement. When asked about the financial details of their delivery contracts, Serve Robotics declined to comment.

Following the announcement, Serve Robotics’ stock surged over 8% to $9.38 before stabilizing, ultimately closing 3.9% higher at $9.00. This performance outpaced gains seen in the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average, which rose by 0.5% and 0.8%, respectively.

It’s worth noting that Serve Robotics is a relatively small company, with a market capitalization of approximately $380 million. Uber and Nvidia are significant shareholders, owning about 14% and 10% of the company, respectively.

-Small parcels- are linked to -great unity- Guangxi opens roads for express delivery to villages in ethnic minority areas

Title: “Connecting Communities through Small Packages: The Impact of Express Delivery in Guangxi’s Ethnic Regions”

Interview with Tan Xuefei and Mo Kuanwen, October 22, 2023

Nestled in the southern region of China, Guangxi is renowned for its distinct ethnic customs. To understand the significance of express delivery in this rural landscape, we spoke with local residents and officials.

Could you share some insight into the daily express delivery activity in Guangxi’s rural areas?

Every day, approximately 1.7 million packages flow through the region, thanks to a robust express logistics network that fuels communication and economic growth among ethnic communities. The development of this infrastructure has created new opportunities for prosperity.

How has express delivery changed the lives of people in remote areas?

We learned about Wei Fengjie, a villager in Hongyan Village of Longlin County, who runs a local retail shop. He acts as a broker for e-commerce, helping residents with purchasing, selling, and receiving packages. With a few online clicks, items like home appliances and fresh food can be delivered in just three days. Wei remarked, “Life in the village has become much more convenient. What’s available online is now accessible to us.”

What underpins this remarkable transformation in the rural logistics network?

The success of the express delivery service in pre-urban areas hinges on a comprehensive rural road network and effective logistics systems. Over the past decade, Guangxi has significantly expanded its rural roads—adding 7,810 kilometers, a 63.3% increase—with all border towns now connected to upgraded road systems. This expansion means that over 80% of the 120,000 natural villages in Guangxi have access to express delivery services.

Could you elaborate on how express services have evolved from towns to villages?

In Huanjiang Maonan Autonomous County, for example, residents from various ethnic backgrounds previously faced challenges with unreliable delivery services. However, in 2022, the Guangxi Department of Transportation designated this county to pilot the integration of rural passenger and freight postal services. “Now, we have express stations right in the village. Even those who live far away can pick up their packages within 10 minutes,” explained Tan Wenzhuan, the Communist Party branch secretary of Zhongnan Village.

How is the integration of services enhancing the delivery system?

The integration of passenger and freight postal services has strengthened the logistics system. Guangxi currently has eight counties recognized as model regions for this integrated approach, including several ethnic autonomous counties like Huanjiang and Fuchuan.

What does express delivery mean for local agriculture?

Interestingly, express delivery also connects urban consumers with local agricultural products. In Gongcheng Yao Autonomous County, known as the “hometown of the moon persimmon,” the industry has thrived with e-commerce. “In our town, every household grows moon persimmons, and over 10 million fresh fruits and related products are shipped nationwide each year,” shared Xia Zhi Guang, secretary of Lianhua Village.

How has this impacted the income of local farmers?

The growth of the moon persimmon market, boosted by e-commerce logistics, has significantly increased average annual incomes from under 800 yuan to over 22,000 yuan. The demand for fresh, locally sourced food from city dwellers has created a new avenue for income, as village gardens now supply urban markets.

What future developments do you see on the horizon for express delivery and agriculture in Guangxi?

With the continuous improvement of the rural delivery logistics system, Guangxi is fostering new business models such as live-stream e-commerce and community-based commerce. In 2023, parcels containing agricultural products reached nearly 300 million, generating over 21 billion yuan in revenue. As new entrepreneurial avenues, including “express + e-commerce” and “express + live-stream” grow, they are poised to transform the agricultural landscape even further.

Expert- AI is an auxiliary tool rather than a -software developer- that replaces humans

At the 2024 China Computer Conference, experts have opined that AI serves as an assistive tool rather than a replacement for human software developers.

On October 24, the 2024 China Computer Conference (CNCC2024) kicked off in Hengdian, Dongyang, Zhejiang Province, drawing over 10,000 participants from academia, education, and industry within the computing sector. The conference centered around the theme “Developing New Quality Productive Forces, Computing Leading the Future,” featuring over 800 renowned experts, scholars, and technology elites from around the world, including Turing Award winners and numerous academicians.

In his opening remarks, conference chair and Chinese Academy of Engineering academician Chen Chun emphasized, “We are in an unprecedented era of transformation, with the rapid development of information technology driving a wave of industrial revolution.” He pointed out that computing, as a crucial force propelling societal advancement, is intricately woven into our lives like never before, ushering in a new era of ubiquitous computing characterized by the convergence of the internet of everything, human-machine interaction, and physical objects. Chen suggested that computing not only fosters intelligence but also shapes consensus, offering a new paradigm for scientific research and giving rise to innovative economic models.

Chen stated that high-quality development hinges on the support of new quality productive forces, with computing being the heart and soul of this new productivity. He expressed hope that industry leaders would collaboratively explore new technologies and trends in the computing field, contributing to the cultivation and development of these productive forces.

Professor Mei Hong from Peking University and a Chinese Academy of Sciences academician discussed the evolution of software automation and the challenges posed by current AI advancements in software engineering. “The integration of big data and deep learning has exceeded our expectations, yet many challenges persist,” Mei noted. Over the past decade, his team has made strides in deep learning combined with software engineering, achieving original results in AI-assisted code generation and completion. However, he acknowledged that the application of large language models in code generation is still limited, particularly in supporting programming languages’ structures and semantics, as well as facing hurdles in acquiring and using proprietary code data resources.

“I believe the current technical pathways of large language models are unsuitable for handling and generating program code. We need to integrate existing software engineering techniques and knowledge,” Mei explained. He stressed that while big data and deep learning offer powerful resources and analytical methods, relying solely on these is insufficient for achieving software automation. “Software embodies human civilization and must be firmly in human hands; AI should be an assistive tool, not a replacement for human software developers,” he emphasized.

Lenovo Group’s Senior Vice President Rui Yong suggested that effectively implementing artificial intelligence requires a comprehensive consideration of four key elements: data, algorithms, computing, and infrastructure. He advocated for a mixed framework approach to tackle these challenges. He showcased the limitations of AI, particularly large models, highlighting their lack of reasoning and planning capabilities, and called for a more integrated and hybrid approach that combines various schools of thought and technologies to realize the true potential of AI.

This year’s conference spans three days and features 118 invited reports, three main forums, and 138 specialized forums covering 34 technical domains, including AI, cybersecurity, basic software, education, and semiconductors. The China Computer Conference, founded in 2003, serves as an annual gathering for professionals from academia, technology, industry, and education to exchange insights in the field of computing.

People in the US- is the looming election stressing you out- Tell us

As the election approaches, with just under two weeks to go, we want to hear from citizens across the United States about their concerns and coping strategies during this stressful period.

Are you feeling anxious about the upcoming election? With polls indicating a close race, many voters are feeling the pressure. This electoral season has been particularly challenging, marked by serious accusations including rising fascism, two attempted assassinations of former President Donald Trump, and the Democrats’ shift from Joe Biden to Kamala Harris as their nominee.

As the election nears its conclusion, it’s evident that anxiety runs high among many Americans. Even though some experts predict a tumultuous post-election period, we want to understand more about what people are finding stressful and how they are handling these emotions.

What specific aspects of the election and its potential consequences are troubling you? In what ways do you think the result may impact your life or your community? How are you managing your anxiety surrounding these issues?

We invite you to share your thoughts by filling out the form below. Your experiences are valuable, and your responses can be anonymous if you prefer. We want to know what’s on your mind**—do you have concerns about the implications of the election? How are you coping during this charged time?

‘It romanticised my night!’ The R&B slow jam events making Black British clubbers swoon

It’s just after 5 PM in West Silvertown, a somewhat obscure stop on the DLR line in East London’s docklands. Not the most glamorous time or location, but as I enter The Cause nightclub with a friend, I’m greeted by a vibrant crowd singing along to Joe’s sultry 1996 hit “All The Things (Your Man Won’t Do).” The DJ effortlessly shifts into SZA’s “Snooze,” and the atmosphere transforms – phones rise in the air as everyone readies to join in on the chorus: “I can’t looooose, when I’m with yooooou!”

Welcome to SlowJamsWithA, a burgeoning trend where club nights cater not to high-energy pop, house, techno, or rap, but instead focus on slow, sensual R&B that typically finds its place in headphones or intimate settings. While it may seem counterintuitive for a club environment, this format is resonating deeply within the Black British nightlife scene.

I spoke with a few attendees, and many shared how mainstream venues in areas like Mayfair or Soho often feel exclusionary, marked by subtle discrimination or outright racist door policies. In stark contrast, R&B and slow jam events like this are inclusive, often Black-led, and filled with music that profoundly connects with Black audiences. “It’s just good vibes all around,” a participant says while waiting in line for food. “You can sing along to all your favorite tracks, and no one’s being stuck up.”

SlowJamsWithA has hosted events all over London, attracting a dedicated, cross-generational audience with a blend of timeless R&B hits alongside newer artists like Odeal, JayO, Summer Walker, and Giveon. Founders Ty Hinds, one of the people behind this movement, recounts how their first party in 2021 came to fruition after the success of their Slow Jams with AAA show on No Signal Radio during the pandemic. “We were curious to see if there was interest in actual events,” he explains, noting that the opening gathering attracted such a large crowd that it was shut down by security.

As the DJ kicks off the night, he humorously warns the crowd, “I don’t want to see anyone crying in the club!” While R&B slow jams often delve into themes of heartbreak, the DJ also underscores the importance of respecting women’s boundaries. Although I observe a few men mingling with women, the prevailing vibe seems to lean toward friendship rather than romantic pursuits. Tasha, a long-time listener of the radio show, emphasizes that it’s all about sharing good times: “Me and my girls always sing our hearts out.”

Another initiative, R&B & Slow Jams, was launched in 2022 by DJ Chuckie Online and podcaster Tazer Black. Lacking a permanent venue, they host events across the UK, Ireland, Germany, and Dubai. Moreover, Room 187, inspired by the Whitehead Bros’ song “Your Love Is a 187,” started as a room in the online community Clubhouse in 2021 before holding its first live event that August. The goal was to create a relaxed atmosphere where attendees could sing along to their favorite tracks without the typical party pressure, which co-founder Benjamin Bennett elaborates on: “That’s why we introduced a gameshow element.”

I attend Room 187’s third-anniversary celebration at Islington Assembly Hall in North London. The experience contrasts with SlowJamsWithA; alongside the gameshow format, the playlist centers exclusively on R&B and hip-hop tracks from before 2008. On arrival, I receive a karaoke card with a QR code that unlocks a playlist of classic R&B songs. Tempted to join in, I hold back, still needing a bit more liquid courage. At the bar, the mood shifts as DJ Kopeman spins nostalgic tracks like Ja Rule and Ashanti’s “Always on Time,” and the atmosphere buzzes with energy.

The host introduces two competing teams, including UK R&B singer Shae Universe, prompting a lively audience interaction as they guess altered song titles, with the crowd gasping in disbelief at wrong answers. The karaoke rounds spark even more excitement, especially when they call for a song by an artist with braids, leading one team to belt out Mario’s “Just a Friend” from 2002, hitting both theme and vibe perfectly.

“It’s nostalgic for my journey with music growing up,” shares Leoca, celebrating a friend’s birthday at the event. “Hearing music I haven’t heard in years romanticized my night and brought back fond memories. It’s always a great night when you can sing your heart out and dance with your friends.”

These parties resonate deeply within the Black British community, tapping into nostalgia for a time when this music shaped our lives. More than just a night out, it’s a return to the sounds that defined our youth – all on our own terms. “These spaces are so important for our community,” Ty Hinds asserts, “providing a place where we can feel safe, relax, and enjoy the music we love.”

In Kazan, Xi Jinping talked about the -Ten Thousand Miles of Tea Ceremony-

In Kazan, Xi Jinping Reflects on the “Tea Road”

On October 23, during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin in Kazan, Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke about the historical significance of the “Tea Road.” He noted, “About 400 years ago, the ‘Tea Road’ connecting our two countries passed through Kazan, bringing tea from the Wuyi Mountain region of China to countless households in Russia.”

For those familiar with history, the “Tea Road” is a well-known path. Since the 17th century, as the Russian demand for tea grew and trade between China and Russia flourished, Chinese merchants seized the opportunity to establish a trade route stretching from the Wuyi Mountains in the south to St. Petersburg in the north. This trade corridor, spanning 13,000 kilometers, became known as the “Tea Road.”

The ancient path facilitated not only the flow of tea but also cultural and informational exchanges over two and a half centuries, underscoring the dynamic trade relationship characterized by the adage “we trade tea for fur.” At its peak, Russian merchants would often set out from Kazan to establish tea processing plants in Hubei, China. This exchange fostered human movement, cultural dissemination, and economic prosperity along the route.

Sergey Karashnikov, Chairman of the Russian International Cooperation Association and Co-Chair of the “Tea Road” International Cooperation Initiative, has emphasized that for centuries, the “Tea Road” has served as an economic and cultural bridge linking China, Russia, and Europe, playing a unique role in fostering grassroots friendships.

In recent years, Xi Jinping has frequently referenced the “Tea Road” in the context of modern Sino-Russian relations, attributing new significance to this historic route. During a state visit to Russia in March 2013, he described the “Tea Road” as a “century-old artery.” He highlighted that after the original “Tea Road” of the 17th century, the China-Russia oil and gas pipelines represent a new, vital connection between the two nations.

In October 2023, during talks with Putin ahead of the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in China, Xi discussed enhancing cross-border tourism cooperation along the “Tea Road,” aiming to transform the China-Mongolia-Russia economic corridor into a high-quality pathway for development.

The trio of China, Mongolia, and Russia has begun collaborative efforts to nominate the “Tea Road” as a World Cultural Heritage site. In March 2019, China’s National Cultural Heritage Administration included the “Tea Road” on the country’s preliminary list of World Heritage sites, elevating its preservation efforts to a national level.

Today, modern transportation networks, including advanced air, road, and rail systems, have replaced the ancient roads, facilitating trade and people-to-people exchanges among China, Mongolia, and Russia. This year, the Mongolian government announced plans to promote the “Tea Road” as a key tourism platform among the three countries under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative.

Despite the evolution of trade, tea remains a significant commodity. As a major tea-consuming country, Russia’s demand for Chinese tea continues to grow, with a substantial amount being exported via the China-Europe Railway Express. Reports indicate that in August 2022, a special train from Hubei carrying approximately 1,000 tons of black tea reached Moscow in just 20 days.

From today’s perspective, the “Tea Road” symbolizes a pragmatic pathway for cooperation centered on tea trade, a medium for cultural exchange and mutual learning, and a genuine bridge connecting people’s hearts—revitalizing and taking on new life as part of the Belt and Road Initiative.

The pen and ink have a strong charm. Central Asian youth- Calligraphy is the key to understanding China.

In a recent interview, 21-year-old Fanya from Kazakhstan shared her insights into the captivating world of Chinese calligraphy. “The flowing lines and the varying shades of ink in calligraphy possess a unique beauty that allows me to feel the essence of Chinese characters and deeply appreciate the charm of Chinese culture,” she explained.

Currently studying Computer Science at Xi’an University of Technology, Fanya dedicates her time to honing her calligraphy skills at the university’s art academy. The reporter observed her meticulously crafting phrases like “The greatest joy in life is found in quiet simplicity.”

Reflecting on her journey, Fanya recounted her first introduction to calligraphy through a class at her school. “When the teacher showcased a calligraphy piece, I was immediately drawn to the balance and elegance of the strokes, prompting me to dive into learning this art form,” she recalled. “Through practice, I quickly became familiar with many Chinese characters and improved my language skills.”

In less than a year, Fanya has transformed from struggling with uneven strokes and inconsistent ink shades to producing strong, well-formed characters. “At first, my wrist would ache, making it hard to persist. Now, I’ve learned to harness the right techniques, and even after long sessions, I lose track of time. Calligraphy feels much like meditation; it allows me to immerse myself fully in the rich tapestry of Chinese history and culture,” she shared.

Her introverted personality seems to harmonize perfectly with the tranquility that calligraphy demands. “I believe I have a natural affinity for this art,” she noted.

Despite only beginning her calligraphy practice recently, Fanya has shown remarkable progress, thanks to her innate talent and dedication. “Though Fanya has been practicing for less than a year, her understanding and diligence in practice have led to her rapid improvement,” commented Luo Hongwei, her instructor at the art academy, while offering guidance on her brush technique.

Fanya understands the importance of using quality materials, stating, “A soft, smooth sheet of paper is essential for good calligraphy.” She even visited the North Zhang Village to learn about the intricate processes involved in making Xuan paper, a key medium for calligraphy.

From soaking and cooking to handcrafting and drying, every step of paper-making tests the artisan’s detail and patience. Fanya expressed her newfound appreciation for the craft. “By making paper myself, I’ve come to value its significance. I’ll cherish each writing opportunity more and embrace the touch of the brush on the paper, paying respect to this cultural treasure,” she concluded.

“I see calligraphy as the key to unlocking an understanding of Chinese culture. It’s become one of my greatest joys during my studies here in Xi’an. In the future, I wish to explore more script styles and delve deeper into the profound world of calligraphy,” Fanya expressed with enthusiasm.

East-West Question丨Banban Dorje- Why can the three major language families of Buddhism complement each other in China-

**Interviewer:** The origins and development of Han Chinese Buddhism, Tibetan Buddhism, and Southern Buddhism—could you elaborate on those?

**Dr. Ban Ban Duo Jie:** Chinese Buddhism is an umbrella term for various Buddhist systems that have evolved within China. When we look at its history, we can categorize it in several ways: historically, through different dynasties and periods; geographically, across different regions and ethnic groups; and by doctrinal language systems, which divides it into Han Buddhism, Tibetan Buddhism, and Southern Buddhism.

Buddhism began its journey to China around the 1st century BCE, originating from ancient India and entering the western regions of China (present-day Xinjiang) and the central plains. During this transmission, Buddhism interacted and fused with established Chinese philosophies such as Confucianism, Daoism, and folk beliefs, leading to the creation of a uniquely Chinese system—the Han Buddhist tradition.

The evolution of Han Buddhism can be divided into three main stages:

1. The Han and Three Kingdoms period through the Northern and Southern Dynasties, where Buddhism transitioned from introduction to increasing prominence.
2. The Sui and Tang dynasties marked the peak of Han Buddhism, characterized by the flourishing of its philosophical and doctrinal systems and the emergence of distinct sects like Tiantai, Huayan, and Chan.
3. The Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties saw a gradual integration of Buddhism with traditional Chinese culture, heavily influencing Song and Ming Neo-Confucian philosophy, ultimately forming a comprehensive tripartite system of canon, treatise, and discipline.

In the 7th century, Buddhism made its way from ancient India into Tibetan society, establishing what we know today as Tibetan Buddhism. This tradition has undergone three historical phases: the Early Spread (around 642-842 CE), the Divided Governance period (842-978 CE), and the Later Spread (978-present), spanning over 1300 years.

Tibetan Buddhism initiated its translation efforts upon arrival, producing significant works such as the “Three Great Catalogs” and compiling the Tibetan canon, which includes texts translated from Indian Buddhism and key Tibetan works.

Southern Buddhism is primarily found in regions inhabited by the Dai and Blang ethnic groups in Yunnan, and has spread to several countries in South and Southeast Asia as well as some Western nations. Southern Buddhism, which follows the Pali canon, respects only the historical Buddha, without venerating bodhisattvas or deities. The geographic proximity of Yunnan to Myanmar has also facilitated the adaptation of Southern Buddhism within Dai culture.

**Interviewer:** What are the unique characteristics of Han, Tibetan, and Southern Buddhism? How have they managed to coexist harmoniously throughout history?

**Dr. Ban Ban Duo Jie:** The development of Buddhism in India can be divided into four stages: early Buddhism, sectarian Buddhism, Mahayana, and Vajrayana. In understanding and interpreting Indian Buddhist texts, the three main Chinese Buddhist traditions have absorbed elements from various Indian sects corresponding to different historical phases. Southern Buddhism preserves the ethical practices of early Buddhism, whereas both Han and Tibetan Buddhism incorporate the doctrines of Mahayana and Vajrayana.

Instead of merely replicating Indian Buddhism, these traditions have contextualized it within China, effectively shifting the center of Buddhist development from India to China.

Han Buddhist scholars integrated Buddhist concepts with traditional Chinese thought, such as Confucianism and Daoism, allowing for the emergence of profound philosophies that enhanced Chinese philosophical discourse. The advent of Chan Buddhism and modern humanistic Buddhism illustrates how these traditions have deeply entwined with local philosophies, affirming that “the Dharma exists in the world, not apart from it,” emphasizing a philosophical engagement with everyday life.

Tibetan Buddhism has cultivated a system that harmonizes the teachings of both the exoteric and esoteric traditions, intertwining with Tibetan religious practices, including Bon, and Chinese traditions like Daoism. Its unique rebirth institution reflects a synthesis of Mahayana Buddha-nature theory, Tibetan temple governance, and historical support from various Chinese administrations, which illustrates a distinctive adaptability.

Southern Buddhism retains the essence of the Pali canon established in the 3rd century BCE. The Dai people in Yunnan have adapted its teachings reflecting their indigenous roots while still holding on to certain pre-existing tribal beliefs, thereby evolving into a distinctive “Dai Buddhism.”

Together, these three strands of Buddhism—while interconnected—possess distinct differences, creating a complex tapestry that forms the essence of Chinese Buddhism. This multifaceted relationship allows for a harmonious coexistence where diverse beliefs, while remaining unique, support and enrich one another across historical epochs.

**Interviewer:** From a philosophical hermeneutics perspective, how do you interpret the Sinicization of Buddhism in China and the emphasis on “adhering to the direction of Sinicizing our religions”?

**Dr. Ban Ban Duo Jie:** On one hand, Chinese exegesis emphasizes an authentic, accurate understanding of foundational texts. Scholars are encouraged to interpret and explain these classics while maintaining fidelity to their original meanings. On the other hand, there’s an encouragement to innovate within the context of interpretation to address contemporary issues relevant to current society.

Modern Western hermeneutics asserts that any classic text possesses characteristics of originality, truth, and openness, leading to a natural process of localization and indigenization as these texts interact with diverse readers and interpreters across different contexts.

The relationship between classic texts and interpretative texts is characterized by a dual nature of continuity and transformation, embodying a dynamic interplay between understanding and application.

As the Buddhist scriptures state, “The Buddha speaks one sound, yet beings understand in different ways according to their nature,” highlighting Buddhism’s potential for timely and appropriate application. This reflects what I call the “hermeneutics of common ontology,” where “ontology” encapsulates the core tenets of Buddhism, while “commonality” addresses individual capacities for understanding shaped by unique contexts and deeper cultural backgrounds. Together, this forms an intrinsic tension between contextual transformation and fundamental doctrines.

California residents who have occupied a house for more than 30 days can enjoy the rights of tenants and may obtain ownership after paying property taxes for 5 years._1

A recent report by FOX 11 highlights an increasing trend of squatters illegally occupying properties in the Los Angeles area, raising alarm about the state’s squatter laws that grant potential tenant rights after just 30 days of residency.

One notable case involves a luxury home in Hollywood Hills that was once leased by Grammy-winning artist Mary J. Blige. This property is now entirely covered in graffiti. Earlier this year, a $5 million home in Beverly Hills suffered a similar fate when squatters took over. The real estate agent representing the property contacted the police, but officers classified the situation as a civil dispute after the squatters presented what they claimed were rental agreement documents.

In September, two more Hollywood Hills homes were invaded and vandalized by squatters, belonging to John Powers Middleton, the son of Philadelphia Phillies owner John S. Middleton.

The use of fraudulent documents by squatters is not uncommon. Daniel P. Phillips, a partner at Belkin, Burden & Goldman, revealed that these individuals often present fake lease agreements or concoct stories about how they were allowed to access the premises.

Squatter laws vary by state. In California, if a squatter occupies a property for 30 days, they can obtain tenant rights. Furthermore, if someone continuously pays property taxes for five years, they might gain ownership through “adverse possession.”

Several law firms in California clarify on their websites that while ownership cannot be granted to squatters after 30 days, they can acquire rental rights. If a landlord issues a written notice for the squatter to vacate and they refuse to leave, the landlord must initiate an unlawful detainer lawsuit, a process that can take several months to resolve.

Adverse possession, often referred to as “squatter’s rights,” is not unique to California, but the timeframe and requirements for claiming this right differ across states. It doesn’t always involve trespassing squatters; it can happen inadvertently. For instance, a homeowner who mistakenly builds a fence over their neighbor’s property line could potentially claim adverse possession for that area.

Each state has specific requirements, including the need for the occupation to be open and notorious. However, the exact duration of possession that qualifies a squatter’s claim varies. In California, a continuous residence and tax payment period of five years is required.

Flash Shelton, a California resident who has deeply researched the state’s squatter laws, found himself embroiled in a situation when squatters occupied his mother’s home. After engaging with law enforcement and learning they could only address this as a civil matter, he decided to turn the tide in his favor.

“In just a few days, I learned everything there was about squatters,” he shared. “I realized that if I could establish my rights to the house before them and then flip the script by becoming a squatter myself, it could work.” He went on to lock them out, set up surveillance cameras, and warned them that he would take legal action if they attempted to re-enter.

Shelton’s story gained traction on social media, and now he aids others facing similar predicaments. He expressed his hope that more punitive measures will be enacted against squatters, especially in states that currently offer them tenant rights, arguing that anyone illegally entering a home should be treated as a criminal regardless of how long they stay.

The 9th China Campus Drama Festival will kick off in Chengdu

The 9th China Campus Drama Festival recently held a press conference in Chengdu, announcing key details about the upcoming event set to take place from November 12 to 22. This biennial festival, established in 2008 by the China Dramatists Association, stands as a significant national event geared towards promoting campus culture, enhancing the quality education of young students, and fostering the development of campus theater across the country.

According to the organizers, the festival is the only nationwide drama event focused on students and schools. The previous eight editions have successfully attracted participation from educational institutions across China. This year’s festival, hosted by the China Dramatists Association and organized by the Chengdu Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television, and Tourism, has also received robust support from the Chengdu Education Bureau and the Chengdu Federation of Literary and Art Circles, with execution by the Chengdu Research Institute of Sichuan Opera.

This year, the festival has introduced a new channel for drama submissions, allowing for both recommendations from various regional drama associations and direct applications to the organizing committee. This led to a significant influx of interest, with 355 productions submitted from primary, secondary, and higher education institutions. The submissions included 143 large productions, 58 smaller traditional operas, and 153 short plays, encompassing various dramatic forms.

Overall, the range of performances is remarkable, featuring 201 spoken dramas, 71 traditional operas spanning 30 different genres including Peking Opera and Yue Opera, 24 musicals, 8 dance dramas, and other forms such as operas and physical theater. Following a stringent selection process, 39 productions were ultimately chosen to participate, including 18 major plays, 8 smaller operas, and 10 short or textbook adaptations, alongside 2 showcase experiences.

The festival’s lineup is extraordinary, showcasing a diverse range of participants—from professional theater schools and comprehensive universities to key institutions directly under the Ministry of Education, as well as local colleges and even elementary and middle schools. This extensive participation reflects the festival’s commitment to inclusivity, exemplifying how it addresses all age groups passionate about drama across the nation.

Chengdu will host a total of 24 vibrant performances, offering a glimpse into the dynamic and varied theatrical culture present in contemporary educational settings. Continuing the fine tradition of post-performance discussions, the festival will feature insights from young and mid-career experts in fields such as drama literature, performance, education, and criticism.

In addition to the performances, the festival will feature the “Campus Drama Forum,” a themed event to reflect on the history of the festival and discuss the future of campus drama. Most performances will be held in campus theaters, encouraging participation not only from students and faculty but also from the wider community.

Furthermore, the event will deepen collaborations with the Chengdu education system, launching an initiative called “One Play, One School.” This initiative will coincide with the festival’s activities, offering specialized training as part of the “National Primary and Secondary School Drama Education Promotion Plan,” along with a variety of workshops, lectures, and salons related to the dramatic arts.