标签： Asia

Amidst the harsh winter conditions of northwestern China, Linze county in Zhangye city, Gansu province, demonstrates remarkable agricultural resilience through its advanced facility agriculture industrial park. Contrary to seasonal expectations, the park thrives with activity as local farmers meticulously harvest, categorize, and package freshly picked vegetables destined for regional markets.

The agricultural complex, operating at peak efficiency during December’s coldest weeks, cultivates over 20 distinct vegetable varieties within climate-controlled greenhouses. These technologically advanced growing environments maintain optimal conditions for year-round production, effectively bypassing traditional seasonal limitations that typically restrict winter farming in northern regions.

This innovative approach to agriculture addresses critical supply chain challenges during winter months when fresh produce availability typically declines. The continuous harvest operation ensures consistent delivery of nutritious vegetables to markets across Gansu and neighboring provinces, providing consumers with access to diverse, quality produce regardless of external weather conditions.

The successful implementation of facility agriculture in Linze county represents a significant advancement in China’s agricultural modernization efforts. By combining traditional farming expertise with contemporary greenhouse technologies, the region has established a sustainable model for winter food production that supports local economies while addressing food security concerns during seasonal transitions.

The majestic Wanfenglin scenic area in China’s Guizhou province has undergone a breathtaking seasonal transformation, with its iconic karst peaks now enveloped in an ethereal winter mist. Recent aerial photography captures the extraordinary spectacle of these rolling, dough-like geological formations emerging mysteriously through the fog-shrouded landscape around Xingyi.

Spanning an impressive 2,000 square kilometers, this ‘forest of peaks’ lives up to its name with countless conical karst formations that create one of China’s most distinctive natural landscapes. During winter months, the interaction between cool air and moisture creates persistent fog that dramatically alters the region’s character, transforming the familiar terrain into something almost otherworldly.

The visual transformation has drawn attention from photographers and nature enthusiasts who marvel at how the winter conditions emphasize the mystical quality of these ancient geological structures. The mist softens the rugged features of the peaks while creating layers of depth and mystery throughout the vast scenic area.

This seasonal phenomenon occurs regularly in the region’s winter climate, offering a completely different perspective on the familiar landscape. While Wanfenglin attracts visitors throughout the year for its striking karst topography, the winter veil provides a unique photographic opportunity and visual experience that highlights the enduring beauty of China’s diverse natural heritage.

In a year characterized by global turmoil and natural disasters, Associated Press journalists found themselves at the heart of extraordinary human moments that defined 2025’s most uplifting stories. From historic papal communications to Nobel Prize announcements and resilient celebrations, these professionals documented remarkable instances of perseverance and joy.

The unprecedented election of America’s first pope, Leo XIV, created an immediate media frenzy. Video journalist Obed Lamy secured exclusive access to the pontiff’s brother, John Prevost, in suburban Chicago. During their interview, an unexpected call from the basement tablet revealed the newly appointed pope himself attempting to contact his brother. Lamy captured the intimate sibling conversation on speakerphone, where the world’s most powerful religious figure casually discussed family travel plans and accommodation uncertainties like any ordinary brother.

Meanwhile, in Seattle, photographer Lindsey Wasson became an unexpected bearer of life-changing news. Arriving before dawn at scientist Mary E. Brunkow’s residence, Wasson informed her husband Ross about Mary’s Nobel Prize in Medicine achievement for her work on peripheral immune tolerance. Initially met with disbelief at the 3:45 AM interruption, the household quickly transformed into a celebration as the reality set in, with Wasson documenting the emotional transition from skepticism to overwhelming joy.

In the Philippines, veteran photographer Aaron Favila braved catastrophic flooding from annual typhoons to document an inspiring wedding ceremony. Despite chest-deep waters, couple Jade Rick Verdillo and Jamaica proceeded with their nuptials at Barasoain Church north of Manila, symbolizing their resilience through life’s challenges. Favila hitched rides on rescue trucks through impassable floods to capture the complete ceremony, acting as both journalist and honorary wedding photographer.

Southern California’s Palisades community demonstrated similar resilience when their youth theater group staged “Crazy for You” just weeks after wildfires destroyed their theater and many cast members’ homes. Reporter Jocelyn Gecker witnessed the powerful opening night where performers found solace in George and Ira Gershwin’s music, temporarily lifting the weight of their losses. The production garnered attention from the Gershwin family trust, who attended a performance and delivered a heartfelt letter applauding the group’s dedication and resilience.

These interconnected stories, captured by AP journalists across different continents and circumstances, collectively illustrate humanity’s remarkable capacity to find light during darkness, celebrate amidst adversity, and maintain connections when they matter most.