SK海力士 to pay 394 billion in special dividends to shareholders after sizable gains from selling 鎧俠 stake
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
SK海力士 plans to pay about 16 trillion won in special dividends to shareholders, funded by proceeds from the sale of its 鎧俠 stake. It is also putting its plans for a U.S. listing of Solidigm on hold.
Japan machine tool show opens, with 94 Taiwanese companies showcasing supply chain strength
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Japan International Machine Tool Fair (JIMTOF 2026) has opened. 台灣工具機暨零組件工業同業公會 said 94 Taiwanese companies are exhibiting, showcasing the strength of the supply chain and trends in smart automation.
20th CPC Central Committee’s Fifth Plenum convenes, with power arrangements in focus
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Fifth Plenum of the 20th CPC Central Committee is being held in Beijing. Its main agenda is to enforce Party discipline and confirm disciplinary actions against corrupt officials. Observers are watching personnel arrangements and the transfer of power related to the 21st Party Congress in 2027, particularly the role of cadres from the “seventh generation.” Attendance could fall to about 291 because of the anti-corruption campaign.
Facts
The 5th Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee
The Fifth Plenum, held from the 26th to the 29th
Attendance could fall to about 291
The original 376 members and alternate members of the Central Committee
Equivalent to 77.4% of the original 376 members and alternate members of the Central Committee
Before the 21st National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party, to be held in 2027
The CPC’s “seventh-generation” cadres, born from the late 1960s through the 1970s
Golden Bell program awards ceremony held despite storm, Minister Li Yuan says he is proud of the film and television industry
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 2026 Golden Bell Awards ceremony for program categories was held on the evening of the 25th. Culture Minister Li Yuan thanked film and television workers for their resilience in completing the ceremony despite the typhoon and said he was proud of the industry.
Sugar factory warehouses revitalized as Beigang 1911 Good Warehouse Cultural and Creative Park opens
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Beigang 1911 Good Warehouse Cultural and Creative Park in Yunlin County opened today, alongside 3 themed exhibitions. The park was created by restoring and revitalizing a cluster of warehouses at the Beigang Sugar Factory. It aims to link local crafts, cultural heritage and tourism resources. County Magistrate Chang Li-shan invited the public to visit the sugar factory and learn about local stories.
Facts
Also launching 3 themed exhibitions
Restoration of 4 warehouses completed so far
Restoration of the remaining 8 warehouses is expected to be completed next year
Plans to hold 2 markets and performance events each month
Storms batter Europe, leaving 1 dead, more than 150,000 homes without power; hundreds of flights canceled and communications disrupted
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Storms Bero and Austen struck northern Europe in succession, leaving 1 person dead, more than 150,000 homes without power and hundreds of flights canceled.
A guide to the 2026 U.S. midterm elections: Congress’s makeup will shape Trump’s future policies
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 2026 U.S. midterm elections will be held on Nov. 3, choosing members of Congress, governors and other public officials. Democrats are expected to have a chance to regain control of the House, which would make it harder for President Trump to advance his agenda. Key issues include inflation, immigration policy and AI regulation.
President donates plaque as Xianying Patriarch’s enshrinement reaches 100 years; Huang Shijie unveils it and calls for stronger local development
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Huang Shijie, the DPP’s Taoyuan mayoral candidate, and Secretary-General Hsu Kuo-yung attended an event at 顯安巖祖師廟 and jointly unveiled a plaque donated by President Lai Ching-te bearing the words “Manifesting Divine Presence and Peace,” marking 100 years since the enshrinement of the Xianying Patriarch. Huang said the population of the Guishan A7 redevelopment zone is growing and called for stronger transport links, public facilities and cultural preservation to promote balanced local development.
Facts
100 years since the Xianying Patriarch was enshrined
Building a smart maritime defense line, Ocean Affairs Council promotes new “drone swarm flight” system
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Ocean Affairs Council is funding a 成大 team to develop an intelligent coordinated swarm-operation system integrating AI and vertical takeoff and landing fixed-wing drones. Simulations of 20 drones flying simultaneously have been completed, with the aim of strengthening maritime defense and whole-of-society resilience.
Aging, damaged Tanqian Road in Dacheng, Changhua; county government launches improvement project
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Tanqian Road in Dacheng Township, Changhua County, has become aged, cracked and damaged after years of use, affecting road safety. Changhua County Magistrate Wang Huimei said the county government has allocated NT$9,067,000 for improvement work on a stretch about 1,730 meters long, aiming to smooth the road surface and improve safety for road users.
Land Victory No. 2 simulates battlefield shelling pressure in psychological casualty-care drills
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Army's brigade-level Land Victory No. 2 exercise has concluded. The 564th Combined Arms Brigade conducted drills in psychological casualty care, simulating combat fatigue among soldiers under battlefield pressure. The drills aimed to hone junior officers' response skills and strengthen sustained combat effectiveness.
Longtime strongmen fall one after another; political shifts in Hungary and Serbia have implications for Europe
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Results of Serbia's parliamentary election are in, with the camp of longtime leader Aleksandar Vučić losing and the Student List alliance, which emerged from the student movement, winning more than half the seats. The result is seen as another electoral defeat for a strongman leader in Eastern Europe following Orbán's departure from office in Hungary, and could affect European politics.
Indonesian social entrepreneur turns traditional food into a trendy brand, cultivating a gold mine for people and the land
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Indonesian social entrepreneur Hirmawan founded the Javara brand, transforming traditional food culture into a trendy brand. The company helps farmers in remote areas build dignified market channels and nurtures rural entrepreneurs through cooperatives and vocational schools, safeguarding biodiversity and local culture.
Facts
About 4,000 hectares
Its history can be traced back to the 6th century AD
Bringing together 8 neighboring villages
40 women
Entry costs about NT$1,000
Comprising 17,508 islands of various sizes
Its highest mountain is more than 4,800 meters above sea level
More than 7,000 varieties of rice have been cultivated
A population of more than 284.44 million
More than 300 major ethnic groups
The Javanese are the largest group, accounting for 42%
Large-scale rice cultivation was promoted nationwide in the 1990s
From 50% in the 1950s
Rising sharply to 94% today
Hirmawan graduated from King's College London
Visited 40 countries
She founded the Javara brand in 2008
The first 3 years
OriginalJavara有8成銷售額是來自出口
Exported to 24 countries
Within 2 years
Original進口食材占比從7成
Original縮減到2成
International shipping costs surged 4 times
After the pandemic, domestic sales rose to 70% of total sales
Restoring traditional Hawaiian foods: produce for better health, taro fields to bring back waterbirds
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Waianae community in Hawaii provides produce prescriptions and cooking education through a health center to improve nutrition among low-income residents. In the Heʻeia area, restoration of traditional taro fields has revived Native Hawaiian food culture and created a habitat for endangered waterbirds, showing that ecological agriculture can also support conservation.
Red quinoa goes to space, wild rice grass becomes a food of the future: the promise and plight of Indigenous grains
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Traditional Indigenous grains such as the Bunun people's wild rice grass and the Paiwan people's red quinoa have climate resilience and cultural value. Red quinoa has even been sent to a space station, but efforts to promote these crops face labor shortages, a lack of mechanization, competition from imports and disruptions to production systems.
Earnings from tech giants and Fed decision put U.S. stocks' rally to the test
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
U.S. stock investors face a test this week from earnings reports by tech giants and the Fed's interest rate meeting. Meta and 科林研發 earnings disappointed the market, while Alphabet, 微軟 and 亞馬遜 are set to report results. The Federal Reserve will hold a monetary policy meeting on the 28th.
Facts
4th anniversary bull market
Since June
The Nasdaq Composite Index on the 22nd
Closed slightly lower on the 23rd
About 1/3 will report earnings
The Federal Reserve convenes on the 28th
The U.S. midterm elections to be held on November 3
Cai Kang-yong may have faced a Zhou Ziyu incident; Chiang Wan-an says he will never accept anti-democratic threats
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Cai Kang-yong posted on 微博 that he had never supported Taiwan independence, prompting media speculation about a Zhou Ziyu incident. Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an said in an interview that he respects residents' opinions and positions, and stressed that he will never accept anti-democratic threats arising from differing political views. Chiang Wan-an also responded to questions about campaign activities, disaster-prevention games and a fire in a smoking area.
Unhappy at not winning Nobel Prize, Trump says Norway is a 'rotten country' and rejects Norwegian immigrants
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Norway as a “rotten country” at a campaign rally in Michigan after failing to win the Nobel Peace Prize, and said he did not welcome Norwegian immigrants. There is no indication that the government will adopt any new policy.
Facts
1.74 trillion Norwegian kroner
About $184.3 billion
Companies mentioned：中央社、路透社、國際貨幣基金、Norwegian Nobel Committee
U.S. restores ballistic missile warnings to help Ukraine strengthen air defenses
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the U.S.-provided warning system for Russian ballistic missiles has been fully restored. The system relies on 太空探索科技公司's “Starshield” satellite network, which had previously been slowed amid diplomatic pressure from Washington. Zelenskyy credited the change to talks with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff in Oslo, and stressed that Ukraine is not discussing limits on the size of its armed forces or postwar neutrality. He also called for trilateral talks to resolve territorial issues.
The 路殺社 citizen science project, launched by the 農業部生物多樣性研究所, is piloting the use of AI to predict high-risk road sections and establish a spatial warning and protection network in response to about 3,000 animal-related traffic accidents in Taiwan each year. The pangolin is the first species selected for the pilot.
Facts
About 3,000 cases a year
Motorcycle riders are involved in 95% of accidents
25,345 people injured over 8 years
Estimated direct economic losses of NT$800 million to NT$6.4 billion a year
Up to 500,000 to 1,000,000 collisions involving medium and large mammals each year
More than 330,000 animal roadkill records have been collected so far
Covers more than 600 species of terrestrial vertebrates
Chinese household sizes continue to shrink, averaging 2.52 people per household
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Chinese household sizes continued to shrink, with the average falling to 2.52 people per household in 2025. Hainan ranked first nationwide with 3.2 people per household, while Guangdong had the country's largest influx of people from other provinces, at nearly 30 million.
Facts
Average household size is just 2.52 people
China has a total of 514.65 million households
The household population is 1.29685 billion
Far below the 3.44 people in 2000
A decrease of 0.92 people
Hainan's average household size is 3.2 people per household
Birth rate exceeds 7 per 1,000
Migrant population is about 376 million
Interprovincial migrant population is about 125 million
In-migrants from other provinces reached 29.6221 million
Hospital emergency and outpatient service information (Yunlin County)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
衛生福利部 issued emergency service information for 諸元內科醫院 in Beigang Township, Yunlin County. The hospital does not provide emergency services, while its outpatient services operate normally.
Hospital emergency and outpatient service information (Yunlin County)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
On October 26, 2026, 彰化基督教醫療財團法人雲林基督教醫院, located in Xiluo Township, Yunlin County, had no evening outpatient clinic. Morning and afternoon clinics and emergency services operated normally.
Hospital emergency and outpatient service information (Yunlin County)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
衛生福利部 released emergency and outpatient service information for the Huwei campus of 國立臺灣大學醫學院附設醫院雲林分院 in Huwei Township, Yunlin County, for October 26, 2026. Outpatient services were suspended that day, but emergency services operated normally.
Hospital emergency and outpatient service information (Yunlin County)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
國立臺灣大學醫學院附設醫院雲林分院 announced on October 26, 2026, that morning, afternoon and evening outpatient services were suspended that day, while emergency services operated normally.
Hospital emergency and outpatient service information (Yunlin County)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
衛生福利部 issued a notice that 國立成功大學醫學院附設醫院斗六分院 in Douliu City, Yunlin County, would suspend services in the morning, afternoon and evening on Oct. 26, 2026. Emergency services would operate as usual.
Hospital emergency and outpatient service information (Yunlin County)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
衛生福利部 released information that emergency services at Xinan Hospital in Douliu City, Yunlin County, would be suspended from noon until midnight on October 26, 2026.
Hospital emergency and outpatient service information (Yunlin County)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
On October 26, 2026, 衛生福利部 released emergency and outpatient service information for 長庚醫療財團法人雲林長庚紀念醫院 in Mailiao Township, Yunlin County. The hospital had no evening clinic, while morning and afternoon clinics and emergency services operated normally.
Hospital emergency and outpatient service information (Yunlin County)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
On October 26, 2026, 衛生福利部 released information on changes to emergency services at Douliu Tzu Chi Hospital in Yunlin County. Emergency services were suspended from noon that day, while morning, afternoon and evening outpatient clinics operated normally.
Hospital emergency and outpatient service information (Yunlin County)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
衛生福利部 released emergency service information for 安生醫院 in Douliu City, Yunlin County. The hospital's emergency services were suspended on October 26, 2026, while outpatient services operated normally.
Hospital emergency and outpatient service information (Yunlin County)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
衛生福利部 released emergency and outpatient service information for 全生醫院 in Beigang Township, Yunlin County, for October 26, 2026. The hospital had no evening clinic or emergency services, while morning and afternoon services operated normally.
Hospital emergency and outpatient service information (Yunlin County)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
衛生福利部 released emergency and outpatient service information for 北港仁一醫院 in Beigang Township, Yunlin County, for October 26, 2026. The hospital had no evening clinic or emergency services, while morning and afternoon services operated normally.
Hospital emergency and outpatient service information (Yunlin County)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
衛生福利部 released emergency and outpatient service information for St. Joseph's Hospital in Huwei Township, Yunlin County. All service periods and emergency services operated normally on October 26, 2026.
Hospital emergency and outpatient service information (Yunlin County)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
衛生福利部 released emergency and outpatient service information for 中國醫藥大學北港附設醫院 in Beigang Township, Yunlin County. Emergency services operated normally throughout October 26, 2026.
台灣自來水公司 issued a water outage alert for parts of Nanzi District, Kaohsiung, affecting Jintian, Rentian and Jinping villages. Repairs are being carried out at No. 198, Houjin West Road. The outage is in effect from 11:32 to 15:00 on October 26, 2026.
Due to emergency leak repairs in front of No. 6-2, Zhongxiao Road, Second Section, 台灣自來水公司 issued a water outage notice for Qingshui Village, Meinong District, Kaohsiung City.
台灣自來水公司 will carry out emergency leak repairs in front of No. 22, Lane 32, Wenhua Road, First Section, Banqiao District, New Taipei City, on Oct. 26, 2026. The work will affect Yixiu Village and Huangshi Village, with water service suspended from 10:51 a.m. to 5 p.m.
台灣自來水公司 issued a water outage alert for Linzhong Village, Linnei Township, Yunlin County. The affected area is near No. 43, Zhongshan Road, Linnei Township. The alert is effective from 10:59 to 17:00 on Oct. 26, 2026.
台灣自來水公司 issued a water outage alert for multiple villages in Shiding District, New Taipei City, due to emergency repairs for a PVCP leak. The outage will run from 10:30 to 17:30 on Oct. 26, 2026.
台灣自來水公司 issued a water outage alert for Rende District, Tainan City, due to pipeline repairs affecting Rende Village. The alert is effective from 10:30 to 15:00 on Oct. 26, 2026.
台灣自來水公司 issued an alert for a water outage in some villages in Zuoying District, Kaohsiung City, due to emergency repairs to a burst water pipe. The affected areas include Weibei Village, Pingshan Village and Jinxue Village.
台灣自來水公司 issued a water outage alert for Wuri District, Taichung City, due to emergency repairs to a burst pipe at the intersection of Fuguang Lane Three and Wuguang Road. The work will affect Rende Village and Guangming Village from 10:28 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Oct. 26, 2026.
Strong Wind Advisory for Land Areas (Yellow Alert) (Pingtung County, Miaoli County, Taoyuan City, Lienchiang County, Yunlin County, New Taipei City, Hsinchu City, Hsinchu County, Chiayi County, Changhua County, Taichung City, Taitung County, Tainan City, Penghu County)
Due to pipeline repairs in front of No. 78, Taiyi Road, Rende District, 台灣自來水公司 issued a water outage notice for Yijia Village and Tuku Village in Rende District, Tainan City.
台灣自來水公司 will suspend water service to Sanhu Village, Daping Village, Shuimei Village and Ruiyuan Village in Yangmei District, Taoyuan City, from 9:33 to 17:00 on Oct. 26, 2026, for road seepage work in Yangmei District.
To improve water supply stability and reduce the risk of pipeline leaks, 台灣自來水公司 will replace water pipes along sections of Liming Road and Zhongshan Road, Second Section, in Dajia District, Taichung City, resulting in a water outage in the area.
台灣自來水公司 issued a water outage alert due to emergency leak repairs at No. 8, Alley 263, Lane 2, Zhongxing Road, First Section, Dali District, Taichung City.
Emergency repairs to a road leak in front of No. 6, Alley 99, Lane 103, Fu'an Road, Section 6, Annan District, Tainan City, have caused partial water outages and reduced water pressure in the area.
Emergency repairs to a road leak at the entrance to Lane 132, Yude Street Three, North District, Tainan City, will cause water outages and reduced water pressure in parts of Huade Village and Fude Village, North District, Tainan City, from 09:00 to 12:30 on 10/26.
台灣自來水公司 issued a water outage alert in Yangmei District, Taoyuan City, due to road seepage work affecting Zhongshan Village and Yangming Village. The alert is effective from 09:24 to 17:30 on Oct. 26, 2026.
台灣自來水公司 issued a water outage alert due to emergency repairs to a burst pipe at No. 171, Tanxing Road, First Section, affecting multiple villages in Tanzi District, Taichung City. The alert is effective from 09:29 to 17:00 on Oct. 26, 2026.
Due to emergency repairs for a 200mm PVCP leak in front of Zhong'an Road, Xiaogang District, 台灣自來水公司 issued a water outage notice for Zhongcuo Village and Guilin Village in Xiaogang District, Kaohsiung City.
台灣自來水公司 issued a water outage alert for Fengyuan District, Taichung City, due to emergency repairs to a burst pipe affecting Xishi Village and Hulu Village.
台灣自來水公司 will suspend water service to Pingding Village and Fuliao Village, Caotun Township, Nantou County, from 8:58 to 17:30 on Oct. 26, 2026, to accommodate a county government road-widening project involving the relocation of pipelines.
台灣自來水公司 will suspend water service to Xiqian Village, Luzhou District, New Taipei City, for a pipeline replacement project. The outage takes effect at 2026年10月23日23:09:59 and expires at 2026年10月26日17:00:00.
Could Taiwan stocks plunge 1,000 points at tomorrow's open? Guo Zherong says a major reversal could follow the panic: These 6 stocks are buying opportunities on dips
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Foreign investors sold heavily as Taiwan's stock market closed for a typhoon and a holiday break, heightening market jitters. Guo Zherong of 摩爾投顧 said stocks could rebound after the break and recommended 6 stocks to buy on dips.
Facts
Trading was suspended on the 23rd as Typhoon Fengpi approached, followed by the Retrocession Day holiday, creating a 4-day trading break.
U.S. technology and semiconductor stocks tumbled, prompting speculation over whether Taiwan stocks would make up lost ground on the 27th.
Guo Zherong said the inability to trade during the holiday intensified risk aversion, but the market could rebound after the break if sentiment stabilizes.
How good is Shen Boyang's English really? Shen Zhengnan flags 2 errors in an all-English interview: Even Tsai Ing-wen missed them
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Psychiatrist Shen Zhengnan publicly criticized the all-English interview of Shen Boyang, the Democratic Progressive Party's Taipei mayoral candidate, pointing to grammatical errors and contradictions in his remarks. Shen Zhengnan questioned Shen Boyang's evidence-free accusation that China was interfering in the election, while taking excessive precautions, and mocked his muddled campaign strategy.
Facts
Shen Zhengnan said that when Shen Boyang mentioned in an all-English interview that China had placed him on a blacklist, he said, “I didn't apply it,” omitting the preposition “for.”
Shen Zhengnan said that when describing his mayoral campaign, Shen Boyang repeatedly said “running this mayor,” also omitting the preposition “for.”
Former President Tsai Ing-wen listed 10 English words from the interview on Threads but did not correct the grammatical errors above.
Shen Cheng-nan questioned what evidence Shen Po-yang had for claims of Chinese interference in the Taipei mayoral election and pointed to changes in the polling gap.
Shen Cheng-nan criticized Shen Po-yang for saying he was not afraid but hiding behind bulletproof glass while campaigning door-to-door.
華爾街日報: I drove America’s cheapest electric car into the charging desert of the Deep South
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A 華爾街日報 reporter took the affordable 雪佛蘭 Bolt on a long-distance test drive to assess the feasibility of charging in the Deep South. The results showed that infrastructure expansion and software improvements have reduced the barriers to long-distance electric-car travel, reflecting a shift in market trends.
Facts
The entry-level 2027 雪佛蘭 Bolt starts at $28,995.
The United States currently has more than 80,000 public fast-charging ports.
The United States adds nearly 20,000 public fast-charging ports each year.
Used electric-car sales rose 21% from the same period a year earlier.
The 雪佛蘭 Bolt’s onboard system can cut charging stop times by about one-third.
Sales of new electric cars fell about 40% from last year.
Former Brazilian president’s amnesty hopes dashed! Lula rallies to defeat Bolsonaro Jr., set to begin his “fourth presidential term”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Brazilian President Lula rallied to defeat Bolsonaro Jr. in the presidential runoff, winning a fourth term. The victory broke a historic pattern of candidates trailing in the first round being unable to come from behind, and dashed former president Jair Bolsonaro’s hopes of amnesty while thwarting the expansion of U.S. right-wing influence in South America.
Facts
Brazilian President Lula defeated Bolsonaro Jr. with 51.75% of the vote in the presidential runoff, winning a fourth term.
Lula broke a historical pattern dating back to Brazil’s return to democracy in the 1980s, when no candidate who trailed in the first round had ever come from behind in the runoff.
After his eldest son Bolsonaro Jr. lost, former president Jair Bolsonaro’s plan to seek amnesty and regain his freedom was completely dashed.
U.S. President Donald Trump’s geopolitical strategy to expand right-wing influence in Latin America suffered a major setback.
Lula trailed by 2.2 million votes in the first round but came from behind to win by 4.3 million votes in the runoff.
Today’s (10/26) top stories! Labor insurance pensions, with an “average monthly payment of 19000 yuan,” to be deposited at the end of the month／Those who qualify can claim a “500-yuan small cash gift” by 11/30／國軍’s Land Victory exercise trains at a “key stronghold”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
風傳媒’s top stories today cover labor insurance pension payments, Hsinchu County tourism subsidies, 國軍’s Land Victory exercise and changes in the department-store market. Labor insurance pension payments average nearly 1.9萬元 a month, Hsinchu County is distributing a limited number of Zhuyou vouchers, and Cai Kang-yung clarified his political stance. The coverage also includes inheritance tax and lifestyle tips.
Facts
Hsinchu County is offering an additional 500-yuan “Zhuyou voucher” from October 19 to November 30. A limited 4,000 vouchers are available countywide and can be used at about 50 participating businesses.
國軍’s major annual exercise, “Land Victory No. 2,” was held from October 14 to 23, with the northern 聯兵269旅 and southern 聯兵564旅 conducting live-force drills at the Jianmiao strategic pass.
D-ONE First Grand Mall in Wuri District, Taichung, is planned to have 106,000 ping of commercial floor space and is touted as Taiwan’s largest department store.
SOGO’s Dunhua branch, which served Taipei residents for 31 years, closed at the end of 2025, while 新光三越’s Tainan Zhongshan store is also set to close on October 31.
Cai Kang-yung posted on Weibo, emphasizing, “I have never supported Taiwan independence,” and rarely spoke about his parents’ past in Shanghai.
Under Article 15 of the Estate and Gift Tax Act, property gifted within 2 years before death to a spouse, heirs in any order of succession, or other specified relatives must be included in the total estate, even if it has already been sold.
The 美國克里夫蘭醫學中心 and related research indicate that even bottles filled only with plain water can accumulate bacteria through contact with people and damp environments. A survey found that most people habitually refill their bottles without washing them; experts recommend washing them daily to ensure hygiene.
Facts
Marianne Sumego, a primary care physician at 美國克里夫蘭醫學中心, said that water bottles are constantly exposed to their surroundings during everyday use. Bacteria can transfer to the bottle’s surface when mouths touch the opening or fingers handle the cap.
A 2024 study published in Journal of Pharmacy and Bioallied Sciences surveyed 30 medical students and found that 90% habitually refilled their water bottles without washing them first.
The 美聯社 interviewed several experts, who said that even bottles used only for plain water should be washed regularly, recommending a basic daily wash with warm water and detergent.
Sumego, a physician at the Cleveland Clinic, cautioned that rinsing a water bottle with plain water may not effectively remove bacteria and grime from its surface, and recommended washing it with soapy water.
A 2026 study published in Environmental Research compared reusable water bottles made of different materials and different cleaning methods, finding that dishwasher cleaning can reduce microbial load by about 90%.
Companies mentioned：美國克里夫蘭醫學中心、Cleveland Clinic、Journal of Pharmacy and Bioallied Sciences、美聯社、AP、美國貝勒醫學院、Environmental Research
Cai Kang-yung suddenly declares he does not support Taiwan independence: “Was he ‘Zhou Ziyu-ed’?” Chiang Wan-an: “We will never accept anti-democratic threats”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Cai Kang-yung faced a boycott from China after attending Shen Po-yang’s campaign event, then clarified on Weibo that he had not supported Taiwan independence. Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an said he respected Cai’s position and sharply criticized the anti-democratic boycott.
Facts
Cai Kang-yung faced a boycott from China after attending the launch of the campaign headquarters of Democratic Progressive Party Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang.
Cai Kang-yung posted on Weibo on the 25th to clarify that he had not supported Taiwan independence.
Chiang Wan-an said he would never accept any anti-democratic threats.
Chiang Wan-an said he respected Cai Kang-yung’s views and political stance, regardless of whether Cai supported him.
Observers have noted that the incident resembles a repeat of the 2016 Zhou Ziyu flag controversy.
Cai Kang-yung suddenly posts on Weibo, declaring “I have never supported Taiwan independence”; Chen Yi mocks him: “He wants to have principles but has no backbone: Nothing is more shameful for a man of letters”
Cai Kang-yung posted in simplified Chinese on Weibo on the evening of the 25th, saying he had always hoped for friendly cross-strait exchanges and had never supported Taiwan independence.
Original蔡康永因出席沈伯洋競總成立大會，遭中國品牌切割且微博貼文遭清空。
After 21 days of silence, Cai Kang-yung suddenly spoke out, explaining that he attended the event to gather information for an interview.
Cai Kang-yung acknowledged that the misunderstanding had caused trouble for his partners and fans, and apologized.
Internet personality Chen Yi blasted Cai Kang-yung for wanting to have principles but lacking backbone, calling him a disgrace to intellectuals.
Taiwanese moviegoers once had to stand up before a film began! Those who did not comply were fined, for a reason many people do not know
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article looks back at the history of national anthem screenings in Taiwanese cinemas, noting that the practice began in the 1950s and that violators were once punished under the Police Offenses Act. Yilan County became the first to end mandatory screenings in 1988, and the practice disappeared entirely only after the law was repealed in 1991 and social attitudes changed.
Facts
In 1951, the Taiwan Provincial Government revised its regulations to explicitly require a national anthem film clip to be shown before every movie screening.
The former Police Offenses Act stipulated that anyone who did not stand and pay respect when instructed to do so during the national anthem could be fined up to 20 yuan or reprimanded.
On September 18, 1964, moviegoers at a Taipei cinema were punished for failing to stand when the national anthem played.
On September 14, 1988, then-Yilan County Magistrate Chen Ding-nan announced the end of the requirement for cinemas in the county to screen a national anthem film clip.
The Police Offenses Act was formally repealed on June 29, 1991, rendering ineffective the former provision used to punish people who did not stand and pay respect when instructed during the national anthem.
A 1988 聯合報 survey of 484 respondents found that 52% believed the national anthem should be played before every screening.
When the film Tropical Fish held its premiere at Taipei Zhonghua Cinema on October 6, 1995, footage still showed the national anthem being sung before the screening.
Cai Kang-yung’s sudden “I don’t support Taiwan independence” post tops Weibo’s trending list; Shen Po-yang points to 1 thing: “Clear signs of Chinese interference”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Entertainer Cai Kang-yung posted on Weibo that he did not support Taiwan independence, drawing fierce criticism from Democratic Progressive Party Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang. Shen said the move showed signs of Chinese interference in Taiwan’s elections and reiterated that Taipei’s mayor must be elected by the city’s residents.
Facts
Cai Kang-yung posted on Weibo that he did not support Taiwan independence and topped Weibo’s trending list.
Shen Po-yang criticized the Cai Kang-yung incident as evidence of Chinese interference in the Taiwanese people’s right to make their own decisions.
Shen Po-yang stressed that Taipei’s mayor should be elected by Taipei residents, not appointed by Beijing.
Cai Kang-yung attended a campaign rally for Democratic Progressive Party Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang.
Shen Boyang believes that participating in activities in Taiwan is the freedom of Taiwanese people and should not be interfered with by China.
Could the Wu Zijia case have a chilling effect? Huang Kuo-chang says print shops are afraid to take orders for “Su Chiao-hui scandal” flyers; he signs his name and takes responsibility: “Come after me.”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taiwan People's Party Chairman Huang Kuo-chang accused Su Chiao-hui's family of being involved in the Kuang Shih Intelligent scandal and said he planned to distribute leaflets to break through the media blackout. Huang took responsibility after print shops, fearing investigations by prosecutors and investigators, refused the work. He criticized the move as creating a chilling effect tantamount to martial law.
Facts
Taiwan People's Party Chairman Huang Kuo-chang held a news conference during the countdown to the 2026 local elections, accusing Su Chiao-hui's family of involvement in a scandal and announcing plans to distribute leaflets.
Huang Kuo-chang said most print shops had refused to take on the printing of the flyers for fear of scrutiny by judicial investigators and prosecutors.
Huang Kuo-chang said a company whose directors include members of Su Chiao-hui's family received investment from the National Development Fund and state-owned financial institutions, as well as subsidies from the Ministry of Economic Affairs' Administration of Commerce, without disclosing conflicts of interest.
Huang Kuo-chang issued a statement pledging that he had designed the flyers, would be responsible for distributing them and would bear all legal responsibility.
Huang Kuo-chang criticized the situation as creating a chilling effect, saying it was as if the country had returned to the martial law era.
A well-known Taiwan department store is closing! “Storewide clearance, discounts starting at 1折”; after 30 years in business, it is exiting as 台茂 takes over to build a shopping mall and hotel
台茂購物中心 plans to give its new mall an open-air street-block design, opening up the first-floor facade to connect with the surrounding streets.
Companies mentioned：新光三越、台茂購物中心、JOHNSON喬山、HITACHI、1929 Home Studio、金安德森、法雅客、AS集團、THE NORTH FACE、MIZUNO、adidas、PUMA、asics、Levi’s、BIG TRAIN、Lee、BRUNO、飛利浦、iStore
Brazil's first stunning comeback! Lula trailed by 2.2 million votes in the first round of the presidential election, then beat Bolsonaro by 4.3 million votes in the runoff
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Brazilian President Lula came from behind to defeat Jair Bolsonaro in the October 25 runoff, winning a fourth term. Polling hours were extended by 2 hours because of weather and transportation problems, sparking controversy. Bolsonaro refused to concede and planned to challenge the election results.
Facts
Brazilian President Lula defeated Bolsonaro in the October 25 presidential runoff, winning 51.8% of the vote to Bolsonaro's 48.2%.
Lula trailed by 2.2 million votes in the first round but won by 4.3 million votes in the runoff.
Supreme Court Justice Zanin ordered polling stations nationwide to extend voting by 2 hours.
What is the “斗” held by family members at a funeral? Why hold a black umbrella over it? The reasons behind the custom are unknown to many people in Taiwan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article introduces the origins and significance of the traditional Taiwanese funeral customs of carrying the rice measure and holding a black umbrella, explains the symbolic meanings of items placed inside the rice measure, and describes how gender roles in modern ceremonies have changed.
Facts
Carrying the rice measure is a traditional Taiwanese funeral custom in which family members place an ancestral tablet or spirit cloth representing the deceased inside a rice measure, then carry it in both hands as they accompany the funeral procession.
According to the collection records of the National Museum of Taiwan History, the 斗 was originally a tool used in agricultural society to measure rice and grains, and was later incorporated into funeral rites.
Among the items placed in the rice measure, iron nails carry the traditional symbolism of having more children and continuing the family line because the Chinese words for “nail” and “male offspring” are homophones.
A folk tradition links holding a black umbrella to anti-Qing, pro-Ming sentiment in the late Ming and early Qing periods. According to the story, Han Chinese used black umbrellas to cover the sky, symbolizing “not seeing the Qing sky.”
Traditionally, the eldest son or grandson carried the rice measure at funerals, largely because of the past emphasis on patrilineal clans and the continuation of the family line.
Japanese chef Papuchan wrote in a Yahoo JAPAN column that garlic should not be stir-fried over high heat in a hot pan with hot oil, as it can burn and turn bitter. He recommends starting with cold oil, heating over medium heat until bubbles appear, then turning off the heat. The residual heat brings out a rich garlic aroma without bitterness, a method that has been tested by many followers.
Facts
In a Yahoo Japan News column, chef Papuchan said garlic is highly sensitive to temperature changes. When it touches oil that has already heated up, its surface browns instantly before the aroma has time to develop, and bitterness seeps into the oil first.
Papuchan's recommended method for bringing out the garlic's aroma is: Step 1, add garlic to cold oil; Step 2, heat slowly over medium heat; Step 3, once small bubbles appear, turn the heat to low or turn it off.
With a hot pan, hot oil and high heat, the garlic's surface browns instantly; the aroma has not developed, and bitterness has already seeped into the oil.
Starting with cold oil and heating over medium heat before turning the heat to low or off once bubbles appear allows the garlic aroma to emerge gradually and infuse the oil, enriching the dish's flavor.
Why can't restaurants fill dishwashing jobs even with monthly pay of NT$80,000? Industry insider reveals the real reason for the labor shortage: it's not visible on the paycheck
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The food service industry faces a severe labor shortage, and even high wages have not been enough to attract workers. The article says younger generations value focus at work and opportunities to learn, and reject high-pressure jobs that require one person to do multiple tasks. It recommends that employers simplify workflows by dividing up tasks to attract talent.
Facts
The Ministry of Labor is expected to review the minimum wage in late September 2026. The premier has said the monthly minimum wage in 2027 will definitely exceed NT$30,000.
Original饗賓的洗碗工月領八萬、鼎泰豐外場無經驗起薪五萬二千五，照樣補不滿人。
Original基本工資連續十年調漲，月薪累計漲了將近2成。
A job posting used to receive 20 résumés in three days; now it gets fewer than five in a week.
A young worker quit because the job at the shop involved too many tasks, choosing instead to work at a nearby shop where they only had to do one thing.
A Taichung man was fined NT$24,000 after stopping twice to let pedestrians cross. Following administrative litigation, the court ruled that he had stopped as required by law, overturned the fine and rejected the appeal. The case is final.
Facts
Original台中一名男子於2023年10月11日因禮讓行人停車兩次，被處以2萬4千元罰鍰。
The court ultimately overturned the fine, and the appeal by the adjudicating authority was rejected. The case is final.
Huang Kuo-chang accused Su Chiao-hui's family of failing to disclose conflicts of interest as required by law, and said the government used taxpayer money to buy shares at NT$13 each while members of the Su family bought them at NT$0.5 each, netting tens of millions in profit from the price difference.
Su Chiao-hui stressed that her younger sister is not the person in charge of the company and said there is nothing to fear from an investigation into anything lawful.
Huang Kuo-chang warned the Lai Ching-te government to come after him alone, saying he would take full responsibility for the flyers' content.
Four pieces of slang known only to women in ancient brothels have survived to become common modern-day catchphrases! Everyone has said them
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article examines the 四 modern terms “job-hopping,” “switching direction,” “being eliminated” and “opening the market,” tracing their roots to brothel culture in the Qing dynasty as recorded in notes and novels, and explaining how they evolved from industry jargon into common terms for today’s workplace, competitions and financial markets.
Facts
In the Qing-dynasty collection Qingbai Leichao, compiled by Xu Ke, “job-hopping” is recorded as a term related to the prostitution industry, used to describe “琵琶別抱”—finding another partner or transferring one’s affections to someone else.
Chapter 八 of the late Qing novel The Sing-Song Girls of Shanghai describes “prostitutes who went out,” showing that in ancient times “going out” referred to courtesans being invited to leave the establishment and accompany clients at banquets elsewhere.
If ancient courtesans lacked autonomy, changing venues (“switching direction”) did not necessarily improve their living conditions; they might be forced to leave because of arrangements made by operators or economic factors.
In ancient brothel culture, “opening the market” may have referred to a competitive practice in which operators arranged for well-known women to showcase their talents to attract customers.
Ancient brothels and related industries developed distinctive forms of address and terminology. Some terms were recorded in Qing-dynasty notes or novels and later became part of modern everyday language.
Never put these 2 items in the arcade—they’re extremely likely to get you reported! Police arrive and “issue a ticket in seconds”; beware a fine of 2400 yuan, and your items could even be hauled away as trash.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Police are reminding the public not to place potted plants or install private ramps in arcades, or risk being reported and fined. Under the regulations, such conduct obstructs traffic and is punishable by a fine of 1,200 to 2,400 yuan. The items may also be removed, and civil liability may apply.
Facts
Piling up, placing or installing objects that obstruct traffic in an arcade, such as potted plants or ramps, violates Article 82, Paragraph 1 of the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act.
If the homeowner is absent or refuses to remove potted plants obstructing passage, the Environmental Protection Bureau may treat them as waste and remove them directly.
Legally, an arcade is a sidewalk subject to a public easement, and private property owners are required to allow public passage.
If a pedestrian is injured because of an illegal obstruction in an arcade, the homeowner could face a negligent-injury case and substantial civil damages.
Enclosing an arcade with a rolling shutter is an illegal structure. After the Building Administration Office determines that it is in violation, it will be registered for demolition, a process that takes several months or more.
It’s not Zhongshan or Ximending! Taipei’s most popular attraction drew 2938萬 visitors. Tourists praise its plentiful food and convenient transport, and say there’s enough to explore for an entire day.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Data released by the Tourism Administration, Ministry of Transportation and Communications, for 2026, months 1–8, show that Taipei 101 and the Xinyi District topped the list with nearly 2938萬 visits, followed by the Xinzhongshan Linear Park and Chifeng Street, and Ximending, indicating that Taipei’s tourism appeal continues to grow.
Facts
The top 三 tourist attractions in Taipei in 2026, months 1–8, were Taipei 101 and the Xinyi District; the Xinzhongshan Linear Park and Chifeng Street shopping district; and the Ximending shopping district.
Taipei 101 and the Xinyi District recorded a cumulative 29,382,073 visits in 2026, months 1–8.
The Xinzhongshan Linear Park and Chifeng Street shopping district recorded 20,183,788 visits in 2026, months 1–8.
The Ximending shopping district recorded 16,001,173 visits in 2026, months 1–8.
The Dadaocheng Dihua Street shopping district ranked fourth, with 14,816,315 visits in 2026, months 1–8.
The Taipei Dome, Songshan Cultural and Creative Park, and National Railway Museum recorded 11,608,309 visits in 2026, months 1–8.
The data source is statistics for 2026, months 1–8, published in the Tourism Statistics Database of the Tourism Administration, Ministry of Transportation and Communications.
Can funeral expenses be deducted from an estate if you didn’t keep the receipts? The Ministry of Finance reveals the answer: eligible taxpayers can deduct NT$1.38 million.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Northern Region National Taxation Bureau of the Ministry of Finance announced amounts related to inheritance tax for 2026, including a funeral expense deduction of NT$1.38 million. The deduction is a fixed amount and does not require receipts for actual expenses, simplifying filing and easing the burden on families.
Facts
The funeral expense deduction for inheritance tax in 2026 is NT$1.38 million.
The funeral expense deduction is not calculated based on actual expenses, and receipts are not required.
People with severe or more serious disabilities, or those who qualify as seriously ill, may claim an additional deduction of NT$6.93 million.
The inheritance tax return must be filed within 6 months of the day after the deceased’s death.
Why do hotels place a piece of cloth at the foot of the bed? Should you remove it before sleeping? Japanese hotels reveal its real purpose—most people use it incorrectly.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Japanese hotel chain Super Hotel explained that bed runners were originally designed to keep shoes from soiling the bedding. Although they have largely become decorative in Asia, a former housekeeper warns that cleanliness and hygiene still matter.
Facts
Japanese hotel chain Super Hotel posted a video on its official TikTok account explaining the origins of bed runners.
Common English names for a bed-end throw include Bed Throw，Foot Throw，and Bed Runner。
Bed-end throws were originally designed to prevent the soles of travelers’ outdoor shoes from contaminating the sheets when they lay on the bed。
A video released by Super Hotel about the purpose of bed-end throws has attracted more than 1.5 million views。
A Japanese internet user who said they had worked as a hotel cleaner noted that the hotel where they worked did not wash bed-end throws regularly。
Wu Chung-han’s View：Songshan Airport Relocation，Chiang Wan-an’s First Day
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
National Chengchi University professor Wu Chung-han wrote in support of Mayor Chiang Wan-an’s proposal to relocate Songshan Airport and redevelop the site as an AI park，stressing the practical resolve to “see the first day” and calling for joint planning by central and local governments to seize the opportunity for industrial upgrading。
Facts
Mayor Chiang Wan-an recently formally put forward a proposal to relocate Songshan Airport and redevelop it as an AI park。
Critics say the relocation would conservatively take more than 20 years。
DPP mayoral candidates Lee Ying-yuan，Frank Hsieh，and Yao Wen-chih have previously proposed relocating Songshan Airport。
The relocation of Songshan Airport is seen as urgent because Taipei urgently needs an industrial cluster linking Beishi Science Park and Neihu Science Park。
The author，Wu Chung-han，is a professor in the Department of Diplomacy at National Chengchi University。
Demand for Apple’s iPhone Duo surged after its launch，prompting 蘋果 to add 三成 to its orders and raise inventory preparations to the 千萬-unit range。Supply chain companies including 鴻海，台積電，and 新日興 stand to benefit，but hinge capacity and assembly yields remain key bottlenecks for shipments。
Facts
蘋果’s first foldable phone，the iPhone Duo，officially went on sale on Oct. 23，with all models selling out on the first day。
蘋果 asked its suppliers to add 三成 to their orders to meet demand。
Original今年 iPhone Duo 備貨量預估從 600 萬支上修至 800 萬至 1,000 萬支。
The iPhone Duo’s secondhand resale price once reached $3,068，about 33% above the lowest purchase price。
The second wave of iPhone Duo shipments is expected to be delayed until Jan. 22，2027。
Market research firms estimate that 蘋果 will capture about 四成 of the global foldable phone market in 2027。
Brazil’s Lula victory jolts stocks，currencies and bonds！Stock ETFs plunge 13%，real feared to fall 10%
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Brazilian President Lula won reelection，and concerns over the lack of clarity in his fiscal policy and the country’s deficit and debt problems sent stock ETFs plunging 13%。The real is expected to depreciate sharply，prompting investors to rush to exit positions established before the election。
Facts
An ETF tracking Brazil’s stock market plunged 13% at one point in Japan。
The U.S. dollar rose to 5.55 against the Brazilian real，which could depreciate by more than 10%。
Brokerages estimated that the Ibovespa index could fall 11% in the first hour of trading after Lula’s victory。
A 花旗集團 survey showed that most investors expect the real to depreciate by at least 5%。
法國興業銀行 expects government bond yields to fluctuate by 150 to 200 basis points。
Brazil’s personal loan default rate has risen to a nearly 20-year high。
Companies mentioned：彭博、芝商所、Monte Bravo、花旗集團、法國興業銀行、Bradesco 資產管理、Floodlines Research、Dharma Political Risk and Strategy
Fii，a 鴻海 subsidiary，releases responsible supply chain strategy white paper，unveils “RISE” blueprint focused on 四 major areas over the next 5 years
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
鴻海 subsidiary 工業富聯 released a responsible supply chain strategy white paper，putting forward the RISE blueprint focused on 四 major areas over the next 五 years，and setting the creation of a responsible，mutually beneficial chain as a 2030 goal。
Facts
工業富聯 released its Responsible Supply Chain Strategy White Paper and put forward the RISE blueprint，which focuses on 四 major areas over the next 五 years。
工業富聯 has made “building a responsible，mutually beneficial chain” a long-term goal for 2030。
The RISE strategy covers 四 major areas and 11 ESG issues。
工業富聯 established a six-step management process in accordance with OECD guidelines.
工業富聯 completed risk assessments of 405 major suppliers.
Brazil presidential election results are in! Lula defeats Bolsonaro’s son to win reelection, facing challenges from a conservative-led Congress and debt
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Brazilian President Lula defeated Flávio Bolsonaro in the second round of the presidential election, winning an unprecedented fourth term. The result broke the record for comebacks in a runoff, but Lula will face governance challenges from a conservative-dominated Congress and high debt.
Facts
Lula defeated Flávio Bolsonaro in the second round of Brazil’s presidential election to win the presidency.
With 93.82% of the votes counted, Lula received 51.69% of the valid votes.
Lula’s victory broke the record for a comeback in a runoff since Brazil restored democracy in 1989.
Brazil’s public debt has exceeded 82% of GDP, reaching its highest level since the pandemic.
The Lula government forecasts economic growth of just 2.3% next year.
[株式会社アースインフィニティ] Annual Securities Report—25th Fiscal Year (2025/08/01–2026/07/31)
Published ・ Source Japan | EDINET 金融庁開示
株式会社アースインフィニティ announced its results for the fiscal year ended July 2026. Sales and profits reached record highs, and its financial position also strengthened.
[株式会社バルニバービ] Annual Securities Report—35th Fiscal Year (2025/08/01–2026/07/31)
Published ・ Source Japan | EDINET 金融庁開示
株式会社バルニバービ filed its annual securities report for the 35th fiscal year (2025/08–2026/07). Sales increased, but profits declined, while total assets expanded.
Study finds knitting not only relieves stress but may also lower dementia risk
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
A study found that knitting can not only relieve stress, regulate the autonomic nervous system, and promote the release of serotonin and dopamine, but may also lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia by reducing cognitive dysfunction. In addition, community knitting activities can help older adults expand their social circles.