Global coverage at a glance: breaking international headlines, geopolitical insights, regional developments, and on‑the‑ground reports from every continent.
Of course, she could have gone to the beautiful corners of the city for the photo report for “Life” magazine, after all, Seattle had just been voted the most livable city in America at the time and was rich in boulevards. But as always, the young photojournalist sought out the less illuminated neighborhoods, with their boulevards of broken dreams, and found a group of problematic young people who had run away from home and were vegetating as prostitutes, homeless people or drug dealers.
She called the project “Streetwise” and was later made into a film by her husband, director Martin Bell, and was nominated for an Oscar as a documentary about people on the margins of society. There are stories about people like Tiny, whose real name was Erin Blackwell, that Mary Ellen Mark wanted to tell photographically. Her approach was always sensitive and respectful.
View was “never voyeuristic”
For decades, Mary Ellen Mark accompanied the girl Tiny as she matured into a woman, accompanied her over many valleys and up to her tenth child, and captured everything on camera. What was seen was a woman clearly marked by life, but who never lost her dignity: “Mary Ellen Mark’s gaze was always humanistic, never voyeuristic. She never took photos from above. On the contrary: with her photographs she wanted to show how quickly it can happen that one is no longer on the sunny side of life,” explains Fabian Knierim, curator of the Mary Ellen Mark exhibition at the “Westlicht” gallery in Vienna. The 48-year-old has viewed 100 photographs, but one is his favorite photo: “Tiny in a Halloween costume”. On the one hand, the then 14-year-old seemed incredibly vulnerable, but on the other hand, she also had the aura: Stay away from me,” explains Knierim. “Mary Ellen Mark had the ability to get really close to people,” he says.
You might also be interested in this video
Self-portrait by Mary Ellen Mark
© Mary Ellen Mark Foundation
“The most difficult thing for me is a portrait. “You have to
How did Mary Ellen Mark’s decision to co-found Archive Pictures and favor licensing over commissions empower photographers?
## A Conversation with a Streetwise Witness
**(Host):** Welcome back to the show. Today, we’re diving into the powerful stories captured by renowned photojournalist Mary Ellen Mark. Joining us is Alex Reed, an expert on Mark’s life and work.
Alex Reed, let’s start with Mark’s iconic photo essay “Streetwise.” What led her to focus on the marginalized youth of Seattle?
**(Alex Reed):** Thank you for having me. Mary Ellen Mark had a unique empathy for the overlooked and vulnerable. While Seattle was being hailed as America’s “most livable city,” she chose to shine a light on its less glamorous side. She found these young runaways, facing homelessness, prostitution, and drug abuse, and saw their stories as deserving to be told. It wasn’t about sensationalism for her; it was about human connection. [[1](https://projectonfamilyhomelessness.org/2016/10/13/the-woman-behind-streetwise-exploring-the-work-of-mary-ellen-mark/)]
**(Host):** Her approach has been described as “sensitive and respectful.” How did she achieve that in such challenging situations?
**(Alex Reed):** You see it in her photographs. They’re stark and unflinching, yet there’s a sense of dignity and compassion in every shot.
She built trust with her subjects, like Tiny (Erin Blackwell), whom she followed for decades. It wasn’t just a photo shoot for her; it was a long-term commitment to understanding these individuals and their experiences.
**(Host):** “Streetwise” eventually became an Oscar-nominated documentary directed by Mark’s husband, Martin Bell.
How did this project further amplify the voices of these teenagers?
**(Alex Reed):** The film took the powerful stills from “Streetwise” and brought them to life. It gave viewers not just images but a glimpse into the lives, dreams, and struggles of these young people. It was a testament to Mark’s ability to see beyond the labels and recognize the humanity within.
**(Host):** Mary Ellen Mark’s work went beyond “Streetwise.” What are some other key contributions she made to documentary photography?
**(Alex Reed):** Well, she challenged the traditional model of how photographers worked.
She co-founded Archive Pictures, which empowered photographers to own their photos and control their work. She also favored licensing images after photoshoots rather than working on commission. This gave her more creative freedom. [ [1](https://projectonfamilyhomelessness.org/2016/10/13/the-woman-behind-streetwise-exploring-the-work-of-mary-ellen-mark/)]
**(Host):** Mary Ellen Mark’s legacy is one of empathy, courage, and a relentless pursuit of truth.
Thank you for sharing your insights on her remarkable life and work.
Swimming Icon Franziska van Almsick Receives Germany’s Highest Civilian Honor
Legendary swimmer Franziska van Almsick, a 10-time Olympic medalist, has been awarded the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany, the nation’s highest civilian honor.
Van Almsick, now 46, impressed the world with her talent during her swimming career, achieving four silver medals and six bronze medals at the 1992, 1996, and 2000 Olympic Games. Her success story transcended athletic achievements; the New York Times even dubbed her “the swimmer who united a nation,” proclaiming her as “the first big star of German reunification” following the reunification of East and West Germany.
Moreover, van Almsick has made waves in the pool throughout history as the first FINA-recognized World Record holder in women’s 50-meter freestyle in short course meters, clocking in at 24.75 at a 1992 German meet. Her talent continued to shine as she established the first official World Records in the 100-meter freestyle in short course meters (53.46 and 53.33 in the heats and finals of the 1993 World Cup meet in Shanghai) and went on to hold the initial World record for the women’s 200-meter freestyle in short course meters (1:55.84, also from that same World Cup).
Van Almsick’s dominance wasn’t limited to short course. In long course competition, she shattered the 200-meter freestyle World Record twice, remarkably with an eight-year gap between the records. In 1994 at the World Championships, though initially placing ninth in the 200-meter freestyle qualifying heats, she took home the gold and a shiny new World Record of 1:56.78. Her teammate, Dagmar Hase had initially qualified but had to scratch from the final, paving the way for van Almsick to compete and etch her name in the record books. This new time broke a longstanding previous World Record by eight-tenths of a second.
Then, in 2002 at the European Championships, van Almsick again smashed her own World Record, swimming a time of 1:56.64. Van Almsick held this record for an astounding 12-and-a-half years until Italian powerhouse Federica Pellegrini surpassed it at the 2007 World Championships.
Turning her passion into action after retiring from competitive swimming in 2004, van Almsick turned her attention to ensuring that more children could enjoy the joy and safety of swimming. She launched the “Heidelberg Kids in Swimming Lessons” program, a testament to her dedication to making swimming accessible.
Today, approximately 20,000 primary school students in 45 German cities benefit from the program. Alongside her program, she established the Franziska van Almsick Foundation, which covers costs like entry fees, travel, and essential equipment, enabling each child to master at least one type of swimming by the end of primary school.
An advocate for athletes beyond the pool deck, van Almsick also holds the position of deputy chairwoman on the supervisory board for the German Sports Aid Foundation. Since 2010, this phenomenal organization has been pivotal in assisting elite athletes in smoothly transitioning into the business world. This invaluable program acknowledges that many top athletes miss crucial career milestones like internships due to their rigorous training and competition schedules.
Van Almsick received the Order of Merit at Bellevue Palace in Berlin on Volunteer Day, December 5th, alongside 16 other esteemed individuals who have made exceptional contributions to popular sport.
Echoing the spirit behind the award, the German Swimming Federation remarked, “They lived sport as a unifying element and promoted equal opportunities and self-confidence, as stated in the justification. They are committed to participation and integration, and stand for the inclusion of people with disabilities and gender equality in sport.”
What advice does Franziska van Almsick give to young athletes aspiring to achieve greatness?
## Interview with Swimming Legend Franziska van Almsick
**(Intro Music)**
**Host:** Welcome back to “Sports Spotlight” everyone! Today, we have the incredible Franziska van Almsick joining us. Franziska, ten-time Olympic medalist and swimming legend, recently received Germany’s highest civilian honor, the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany. Congratulations on this tremendous achievement!
**Franziska van Almsick:** Thank you so much. It’s truly an honor to receive this recognition.
**Host:** Your career is truly remarkable. Four silver and six bronze Olympic medals, countless world records broken – you truly are an icon of German sport. Can you share with us what it meant to represent Germany, especially in the years after reunification?
**Franziska:** It was a privilege and a responsibility. [1] After reunification, there was a strong sense of unity and hope in Germany. To be a part of that, even in a small way through swimming, was deeply meaningful.
The New York Times actually called me “the swimmer who united a nation.”
**Host:** That’s incredible! And your accomplishments in the pool speak for themselves.
**Franziska:**
Thank you. From the 50-meter freestyle to the 200-meter freestyle, both in short and long courses, it was always about pushing the boundaries and exceeding my own expectations.
And of course, setting those records, especially breaking my own 200-meter freestyle record twice with an eight-year gap, showed me the power of dedication and perseverance.
**Host:** Truly inspiring. What advice would you give to young athletes aspiring to achieve greatness?
**Franziska:** Believe in yourself, work hard, never give up, and always remember to enjoy the journey.
**Host:**
Beautiful words. Franziska van Almsick, thank you so much for joining us. Congratulations again on your well-deserved honor!
**Franziska:** Thank you for having me.
**(Outro Music)**
Will Damascus Fall? Syrian Regime On The Brink of Collapse
Signs point to the imminent collapse of the Syrian regime. Sources have revealed that Bashar al
What are the potential consequences, both positive and negative, of the Assad regime’s potential fall?
Will Damascus Fall? Syrian Regime On The Brink of Collapse
Signs point to the imminent collapse of the Syrian regime. Sources have revealed that Bashar al-Assad’s grip on power is weakening, with some US officials even suggesting his regime could fall within days. Joining us today is Dr. Sarah Khalil, a Middle East expert from the Institute of International Relations. Dr. Khalil, is this the beginning of the end for the Assad regime? And what does this mean for the future of Syria?
Some argue that the Syrian people have suffered enough and any change is welcome. Others worry about the potential chaos that could follow the regime’s collapse. What are your thoughts? Will the fall of Damascus be a cause for celebration or a reason to fear?
Celebrating 40 Years of Innovation: TEDA Leads China’s Economic Growth
For four decades, the Tianjin Economic-Technological Development Area (TEDA), established in 1984 with the blessing of China’s State Council, has stood as a testament to the transformative power of economic development. Once a barren landscape of saline-alkali wasteland, TEDA has blossomed into the country’s first national-level economic development zone, offering one of the most favorable investment environments in China.
TEDA’s sprawling 403 square kilometers encompass 10 dynamic industrial parks, housing an impressive network of 53,400 companies. This vibrant ecosystem stands as a powerful engine of economic growth, fueled by a legacy of innovation and a commitment to attracting global investments. “As a pioneer of reform and opening-up, TEDA has created a world-class business climate for investment to promote sustainable growth and emerging innovation,” states Hong Shicong, Head of the Management Committee of TEDA.
A Legacy of Success
Over the past 16 years, TEDA has consistently ranked as China’s No. 1 economic development zone in terms of overall impact. This remarkable achievement reflects TEDA’s strategic vision, its unwavering commitment to industrial value creation, and its dedication to providing comprehensive synergistic services to its partners and residents.
By the end of 2023, TEDA had attracted an astonishing 6,478 foreign investment projects from 97 countries and regions. Notably, 573 projects originated from 124 Fortune 500 companies, a testament to TEDA’s global appeal and its ability to attract leading multinational corporations. Cumulatively, these foreign investments totaled a staggering $69.557 billion, underscoring TEDA’s integral role in driving China’s economic progress.
Paving the Way for Global Collaboration
TEDA’s mission extends beyond mere economic growth; it champions fostering global partnerships and establishing China as a key player in international trade. By supporting multinational companies in expanding into new markets and establishing robust industrial chains within China, TEDA acts as a crucial bridge connecting global economies.
Its commitment to world-class business practices is exemplified by its pioneering role in attracting the first high-tech multinational corporation, Motorola China, back in 1992. This landmark event ushered in a new era of wireless communications in China, marking the beginning of a continuous effort by TEDA to cultivate a thriving business environment and implement forward-thinking legislation.
Shaping the Future of Urban Development
TEDA has been at the forefront of innovation, not only in fostering economic growth but also in shaping urban development practices. From its inception, TEDA introduced a flexible land use policy that promoted the adoption of 70-year land use rights through innovative land lease agreements. This progressive approach became a model for land management practices across China.
As TEDA continued to evolve, it set new benchmarks for occupational health and safety standards, establishing standards that have become precedents in China’s legal landscape. These innovative efforts earned TEDA recognition as one of China’s most innovative local governments by Impact China, solidifying its status as a leader in responsible and sustainable urban development.
A Thriving Ecosystem for Industry and Talent
TED
A boasts a diverse industrial landscape, home to hundreds of billions of yuan in industrial clusters. These clusters foster the development of technical talent and manufacturing industries across a spectrum of sectors, including automobiles, IT, new chemical materials, pharmaceuticals, and health.
Strategically located at the intersection of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei and Bohai Bay Integration Plan, TEDA is seamlessly integrated with 162 inter-provincial government bodies. This interconnectedness harmonizes regional development efforts and encourages collaborative initiatives.
Additionally, TEDA offers dedicated professional third-party advisory services to support businesses in navigating the complexities of financing, operations, management, talent acquisition, and distribution channels. This comprehensive support network makes TEDA a prime destination for companies seeking a dynamic and supportive environment for growth and success. As TEDA embarks on its fifth decade, its legacy of innovation, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to progress continues to inspire confidence and attract businesses from around the globe.
Photo
Photo
What strategies did TEDA implement to attract global investors?
## TEDA Celebrates 40 Years of Innovation and Growth
**Interviewer:** Welcome to the show. Today we’re joined by Hong Shicong, Head of the Management Committee of the Tianjin Economic-Technological Development Area, or TEDA, to discuss the remarkable achievements of this economic powerhouse as it celebrates its 40th anniversary. Mr. Shicong, thank you for joining us.
**Hong Shicong:** It’s my pleasure to be here.
**Interviewer:** TEDA has undergone a truly remarkable transformation since its establishment in 1984. Can you tell us about its journey from a barren wasteland to China’s leading economic development zone?
**Hong Shicong:** Certainly. Back in 1984, TEDA was a challenging landscape of saline-alkali wasteland. However, with the vision and support of the Chinese government, we embarked on an ambitious journey to transform it into a world-class business environment. [[1](https://www.finanznachrichten.de/nachrichten-2024-12/64021812-teda-feiert-40-jahre-bahnbrechende-innovation-integrative-oeffnung-und-synergetische-entwicklung-007.htm)]Today, we’re proud to say that TEDA spans 403 square kilometers, home to 10 dynamic industrial parks and over 53,400 companies, making it an engine of economic growth for the region and the country.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned a world-class business environment. What makes TEDA so attractive to global investors?
**Hong Shicong:** TEDA has deliberately cultivated a welcoming and supportive environment for businesses of all sizes. We offer a flexible land use policy, streamlined administrative procedures, and access to a highly skilled workforce. We prioritize innovation, and this commitment has attracted leading multinational corporations like Motorola China, who established their first Chinese operations in TEDA back in 1992. [[1](https://www.finanznachrichten.de/nachrichten-2024-12/64021812-teda-feiert-40-jahre-bahnbrechende-innovation-integrative-oeffnung-und-synergetische-entwicklung-007.htm)]
**Interviewer:** Your achievements are impressive indeed. What are some of TEDA’s key goals for the future?
**Hong Shicong:** As we look ahead to the next 40 years, we remain dedicated to fostering sustainable growth, promoting emerging innovation, and strengthening our role as a bridge connecting global economies. We will continue to attract talent, invest in cutting-edge technologies, and nurture a thriving ecosystem for businesses to flourish.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mr. Shicong, for sharing your insights into TEDA’s remarkable journey and exciting future.
**Hong Shicong:** Thank you for having me.