Johnsee Lee says that according to US market research estimates , the worldwide annual consumption of microarray chips is currently around 250,000 ; in two years this is expected to grow to 1.2 million .

<person>Johnsee Lee</person> says that according to <gpe>US</gpe> market research estimates , the worldwide annual consumption of microarray chips is currently around <cardinal>250,000</cardinal> ; in <date>two years</date> this is expected to grow to <cardinal>1.2 million</cardinal> .


Based on a market price per chip of US$ 1,000 , the size of the world market in biochips could grow to US$ 1.2 billion in 2003 , and to US$ 40 billion over the next decade .

Based on a market price per chip of <money>US$ 1,000</money> , the size of the world market in biochips could grow to <money>US$ 1.2 billion</money> in <date>2003</date> , and to <money>US$ 40 billion</money> over <date>the next decade</date> .


Thus some people have set their sights on the biochip market , and believe that following Taiwan 's success in the semiconductor field , the island could go on to be a major center for contract manufacture of biochips .

Thus some people have set their sights on the biochip market , and believe that following <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's success in the semiconductor field , the island could go on to be a major center for contract manufacture of biochips .


Be that as it may , the small number of biochip companies so far established in Taiwan still find their market in domestic research establishments and pharmaceuticals manufacturers .

Be that as it may , the small number of biochip companies so far established in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> still find their market in domestic research establishments and pharmaceuticals manufacturers .


Although they are also actively developing overseas markets , what interests them most is not biochips per se , nor are they content merely to be contract manufacturers .


" The chips are only a tool , and the big money is not in chip sales .


What counts is the R&D behind them . "


Jerry Huang , executive vice president of U - Vision Biotech , reveals that U - Vision , which was set up in September 1999 , has signed a contract with the US company Zen - Bio to jointly develop human adipocyte cDNA microarray chips .

<person>Jerry Huang</person> , executive vice president of <org>U - Vision Biotech</org> , reveals that <org>U - Vision</org> , which was set up in <date>September 1999</date> , has signed a contract with the <gpe>US</gpe> company <org>Zen - Bio</org> to jointly develop human adipocyte cDNA microarray chips .


Huang states that research in recent years has revealed that adipocytes -LRB- fat cells -RRB- are active regulators of the energy balance in the body , and play an important role in disorders such as obesity , diabetes , osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease .

<person>Huang</person> states that research in <date>recent years</date> has revealed that adipocytes -LRB- fat cells -RRB- are active regulators of the energy balance in the body , and play an important role in disorders such as obesity , diabetes , osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease .


Thus it is hoped that research into human adipocytes can help in the search for drugs and other therapies to treat these disorders .


Apart from this , U - Vision is also conducting a one - year bacterial genome project , which aims to map the genome of a certain drug - resistant bacterium as a basis for developing new vaccines and drugs .

Apart from this , <org>U - Vision</org> is also conducting a <date>one - year</date> bacterial genome project , which aims to map the genome of a certain drug - resistant bacterium as a basis for developing new vaccines and drugs .


Drug development


Taiwan Genome Sciences -LRB- TGS -RRB- , which was set up in November 1999 as a joint venture by the Uni-President Enterprises Group , Yuen Foong Yu and Tuntex Groups , only entered the biotechnology fray in April of this year .

<org>Taiwan Genome Sciences</org> -LRB- <org>TGS</org> -RRB- , which was set up in <date>November 1999</date> as a joint venture by <org>the Uni-President Enterprises Group</org> , <person>Yuen Foong Yu</person> and <org>Tuntex Groups</org> , only entered the biotechnology fray in <date>April of this year</date> .


CEO Andrew Kuo says the investors came to the view that Taiwan needs to develop its biotechnology industries , and therefore they combined their resources to make a long - term investment in the field .

CEO <person>Andrew Kuo</person> says the investors came to the view that <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> needs to develop its biotechnology industries , and therefore they combined their resources to make a long - term investment in the field .


TGS 's strategy is to invest in a number of US genome research companies , and to sign technology transfer agreements and chip production contracts with them .

<org>TGS</org> 's strategy is to invest in a number of <gpe>US</gpe> genome research companies , and to sign technology transfer agreements and chip production contracts with them .


Kuo comments that contract production of chips is merely a service activity and a source of income for the company - TGS 's ultimate goal is in doing R&D work to identify gene sequences as targets for developing new drugs .

<person>Kuo</person> comments that contract production of chips is merely a service activity and a source of income for the company - <org>TGS</org> 's ultimate goal is in doing R&D work to identify gene sequences as targets for developing new drugs .


Kuo states that at present , the number of known target sequences for disease - treating drugs is only around 500 , but as the human genome is mapped out this number can be expected to increase tenfold .

<person>Kuo</person> states that at present , the number of known target sequences for disease - treating drugs is only around <cardinal>500</cardinal> , but as the human genome is mapped out this number can be expected to increase tenfold .


Currently , TGS has its sights set mainly on doing research into diseases which are especially prevalent in Asia , such as liver and stomach cancers .

Currently , <org>TGS</org> has its sights set mainly on doing research into diseases which are especially prevalent in <loc>Asia</loc> , such as liver and stomach cancers .


A chip revolution


However , the potential uses for biochips go far beyond the medical applications outlined above .


Dr. Johnsee Lee , who as well as heading up the Biomedical Engineering Center is also general director of Union Chemical Laboratories , a research institute under the ITRI umbrella , says that due to biochips ' advantages of miniaturization , parallelism , speed and the ability to reveal the " big picture , " they have a very wide range of applications .

Dr. <person>Johnsee Lee</person> , who as well as heading up <org>the Biomedical Engineering Center</org> is also general director of <org>Union Chemical Laboratories</org> , a research institute under the <org>ITRI</org> umbrella , says that due to biochips ' advantages of miniaturization , parallelism , speed and the ability to reveal the " big picture , " they have a very wide range of applications .


They can not only be used as a research tool in biological , medical and pharmaceutical research and development , and as a clinical diagnostic tool for doing health checks , testing for infectious pathogens , screening blood and so on , but they can also find uses in such areas as defense applications , police forensic work , environmental testing and food testing .


Biochips come in two main types : the microfluidics chip or " lab - on - a - chip , " and the microarray chip or " DNA chip . "


Microfluidics chips bring together biotechnology , microelectronics , micromachining and other technologies to integrate the functions of multiple laboratory instruments onto a single chip in miniaturized form .


Meanwhile on microarray chips , biological molecules such as gene segments , oligonucleotides , proteins or antibodies are bound to the chip surface in an array of tiny spots , and a single chip may carry many tens of thousands of such spots .


BMEC researcher Pan Chao - chi uses the example of blood screening for a blood bank to illustrate the difference between the two kinds of chips .

<org>BMEC</org> researcher <person>Pan Chao - chi</person> uses the example of blood screening for a blood bank to illustrate the difference between the two kinds of chips .


To test a blood sample using a microarray chip , the sample must first go through many preparatory steps such as purification , nucleotide extraction , copying , amplification and labeling before being put onto the chip where the " hybridization " reaction takes place .


Finally , the results are analyzed using a detection system .


Hence these chips are only suitable for use in the laboratory .


In contrast , with a lab - on - a - chip system , all the laboratory preparation stages will be done on the chip itself , so that the user need only place a drop of blood directly onto the chip to obtain a result .


At present , microfluidics technology is not yet mature , and no such chips have been launched as commercial products anywhere .


But , says Pan Chao - chih : " This is the way future biochip development will go . "

But , says <person>Pan Chao - chih</person> : " This is the way future biochip development will go . "


The poor man 's chip

<work_of_art>The poor man 's chip</work_of_art>


Future prospects also seem infinite for microarray chips , which are already widely used in laboratories and research establishments .


Jerry Huang notes that DNA chips are an indispensable research tool in molecular biology .

<person>Jerry Huang</person> notes that DNA chips are an indispensable research tool in molecular biology .


On one little biochip , tens of thousands of gene segments can be arranged to simultaneously detect the expression of tens of thousands of genes .

On <cardinal>one</cardinal> little biochip , <cardinal>tens of thousands</cardinal> of gene segments can be arranged to simultaneously detect the expression of <cardinal>tens of thousands</cardinal> of genes .


In other words , whereas in the past researchers had to investigate each gene individually , today , using biochips , they can obtain test results for tens of thousands of genes at once .

In other words , whereas in the past researchers had to investigate each gene individually , today , using biochips , they can obtain test results for <cardinal>tens of thousands</cardinal> of genes at once .


In particular , biochips not only can speed the pace of research , but can also replace laboratory animals such as rats and rabbits in many experiments , with tests being carried out directly on human genes on the chip .


Thus as research tools biochips are not only convenient and quick , but also more humane .


Dr. Konan Peck , an assistant research fellow at Academia Sinica 's Institute of Biomedical Sciences -LRB- IBMS -RRB- , says that biochips need to be made more widely available as a molecular biology research tool .

Dr. <person>Konan Peck</person> , an assistant research fellow at <org>Academia Sinica 's Institute of Biomedical Sciences</org> -LRB- <org>IBMS</org> -RRB- , says that biochips need to be made more widely available as a molecular biology research tool .


With this in mind , Peck has developed nylon - based biochips which have been called " the poor man 's biochip , " since they cost a third less than glass chips .

With this in mind , <person>Peck</person> has developed nylon - based biochips which have been called " the poor man 's biochip , " since they cost <cardinal>a third</cardinal> less than glass chips .


Apart from the material itself being cheaper , the nylon chips use a visible - spectrum colorimetric system to display results , so that they can be read using an ordinary optical scanner , which costs 50 - 70 % less than using a special laser detector .

Apart from the material itself being cheaper , the nylon chips use a visible - spectrum colorimetric system to display results , so that they can be read using an ordinary optical scanner , which costs <percent>50 - 70 %</percent> less than using a special laser detector .


The nylon membrane biochips currently produced by TGS and U - Vision Biotech are all derived from the technology developed by Konan Peck .

The nylon membrane biochips currently produced by <org>TGS</org> and <org>U - Vision Biotech</org> are all derived from the technology developed by <person>Konan Peck</person> .


Cutting edge


Can Taiwan really repeat its success in the semiconductor industry , to become a major production center for biochips ?

Can <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> really repeat its success in the semiconductor industry , to become a major production center for biochips ?


BMEC director Johnsee Lee observes that the level of scientific and technical know - how required for biochip production is very high , so that the opportunities for contract manufacture are limited .

<org>BMEC</org> director <person>Johnsee Lee</person> observes that the level of scientific and technical know - how required for biochip production is very high , so that the opportunities for contract manufacture are limited .


However , due to Taiwan 's early entry into biochip research and development , and the high state of development of its semiconductor industry , the island is well supplied with relevant technology and skills .

However , due to <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's early entry into biochip research and development , and the high state of development of its semiconductor industry , the island is well supplied with relevant technology and skills .


Thus , says Lee , " Taiwan should have opportunities to enter this field not merely as a contract manufacturer . "

Thus , says <person>Lee</person> , " <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> should have opportunities to enter this field not merely as a contract manufacturer . "


The potential and importance of biochips is plain to see , but in this new , interdisciplinary industry , there are still many obstacles and difficulties to overcome .


Apart from the fact that the technology is not yet mature , and that generally accepted , mutually compatible international standards have not yet emerged , the biggest bottleneck for biochips at the moment is the many thousands of patents which have been taken out in the field , which limit the avenues available to each player .


" Because this area is a patents minefield , it 's impossible to create a product which from start to finish does n't infringe on anyone else 's patents , " says Johnsee Lee .

" Because this area is a patents minefield , it 's impossible to create a product which from start to finish does n't infringe on anyone else 's patents , " says <person>Johnsee Lee</person> .


In his view , this problem may be resolved in the future by the exchange of patented technologies between players .


In other words , at this stage companies must actively carry out research and development , and obtain international patents , in order to have bargaining chips in future negotiations .


At present , the BMEC has over 10 patents pending in the areas of microfluidics biochips , chip surface processing technology and probe design and applications .

At present , the <org>BMEC</org> has over <cardinal>10</cardinal> patents pending in the areas of microfluidics biochips , chip surface processing technology and probe design and applications .


Pushing the envelope


Although at their present stage of development , biochips are already a great help to researchers , they are still far removed from ordinary people 's lives .


But one day they will play an important role in all our lives .


" Applications and commercialization are our goal , " says Johnsee Lee .

" Applications and commercialization are our goal , " says <person>Johnsee Lee</person> .


He says that only if research results are commercialized does research produce an economic payback .


Equally , to have a really broad market biochips need to go beyond the laboratory researcher , and into hospitals , clinics and homes , and to individual users .


Lee points out that before biochips will be worth commercializing , sample preparation needs to be made convenient , reading results must be simple and easy , the chips ' speed and accuracy must be high , and their cost must be low .

<person>Lee</person> points out that before biochips will be worth commercializing , sample preparation needs to be made convenient , reading results must be simple and easy , the chips ' speed and accuracy must be high , and their cost must be low .


He predicts that in one to two years , biochips will be suitable for use in supplemental tests , and after around three years for high - throughput screening ; in five years time it should be possible to develop them into general screening tools which will be as easy to use as the pregnancy test kits on the market today .

He predicts that in <date>one to two years</date> , biochips will be suitable for use in supplemental tests , and after <date>around three years</date> for high - throughput screening ; in five years time it should be possible to develop them into general screening tools which will be as easy to use as the pregnancy test kits on the market today .


IBMS associate research fellow Konan Peck agrees that in the foreseeable future , diagnostic chips will enable everyone to learn their current state of health and know what diseases they may develop in the future .

<org>IBMS</org> associate research fellow <person>Konan Peck</person> agrees that in the foreseeable future , diagnostic chips will enable everyone to learn their current state of health and know what diseases they may develop in the future .


But in a situation where testing technology is ahead of medical treatment technology , the medical problems so discovered may not be treatable .


Mankind is always challenging his limits , and when , in the near future , biochips lift the veil of many diseases , the next challenge will have only just begun .


Turning to the Constitution on the " One China " Issue

Turning to the Constitution on the " <cardinal>One</cardinal> <gpe>China</gpe> " Issue


Still wrestling with the vexed issue of " one China , " the President 's Advisory Group on Cross-Strait Relations met for its sixth and seventh sessions during November , amid frenzied media attention .

Still wrestling with the vexed issue of " <cardinal>one</cardinal> <gpe>China</gpe> , " <org>the President 's Advisory Group</org> on <loc>Cross-Strait</loc> Relations met for its <ordinal>sixth</ordinal> and <ordinal>seventh</ordinal> sessions during <date>November</date> , amid frenzied media attention .


The group eventually reached a consensus that the " one China " principle advocated by the mainland should be addressed " in accordance with the constitution . "

The group eventually reached a consensus that the " <cardinal>one</cardinal> <gpe>China</gpe> " principle advocated by the mainland should be addressed " in accordance with the constitution . "


How president Chen Shui - bian responds to this proposal will determine whether or not the " one China " stalemate can be broken , and if there is to be a set timetable for implementing the three direct links .

How president <person>Chen Shui - bian</person> responds to this proposal will determine whether or not the " <cardinal>one</cardinal> <gpe>China</gpe> " stalemate can be broken , and if there is to be a set timetable for implementing the <cardinal>three</cardinal> direct links .


After assuming the presidency , Chen Shui - bian recruited a number of leading politicians , industrialists , academics and other personages for a non-partisan advisory group , intended to build cross-party consensus on the subject of relations with the mainland .

After assuming the presidency , <person>Chen Shui - bian</person> recruited a number of leading politicians , industrialists , academics and other personages for a non-partisan advisory group , intended to build cross-party consensus on the subject of relations with the mainland .


Chaired by Academia Sinica president Lee Yuan - tseh , the Presidential Advisory Group on Cross-Strait Relations first met in early September .

Chaired by <org>Academia Sinica</org> president <person>Lee Yuan - tseh</person> , <org>the Presidential Advisory Group on Cross-Strait Relations</org> <ordinal>first</ordinal> met in <date>early September</date> .


Since then the Group has held a series of intensive discussions on Taiwan 's fundamental position regarding the cross-strait relationship .

Since then the <org>Group</org> has held a series of intensive discussions on <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's fundamental position regarding the cross-strait relationship .


The Group entered the final phase of discussions on the " one China " issue during November , but differences between pro-unification and pro-independence participants continued to stymie the effort to produce a statement acceptable to all .

The <org>Group</org> entered the final phase of discussions on the " <cardinal>one</cardinal> <gpe>China</gpe> " issue during <date>November</date> , but differences between pro-unification and pro-independence participants continued to stymie the effort to produce a statement acceptable to all .


As DPP legislator Shen Fu - hsiung pointed out , the Group had to draft something " palatable both to the pro-unification and pro-independence camps ; something which the DPP ca n't shun and yet which does n't make Beijing wince . "

As <org>DPP</org> legislator <person>Shen Fu - hsiung</person> pointed out , the <org>Group</org> had to draft something " palatable both to the pro-unification and pro-independence camps ; something which the <org>DPP</org> ca n't shun and yet which does n't make <gpe>Beijing</gpe> wince . "


Clearly no easy task .


On the evening of November 18 Advisory Group chairman Lee Yuan - tseh , meeting over dinner with DPP faction leaders , described the cross-strait situation as extremely precarious , and said that since time is not on Taiwan 's side we need to step up efforts to resume dialogue with the mainland .

On <time>the evening of November 18</time> <org>Advisory Group</org> chairman <person>Lee Yuan - tseh</person> , meeting over dinner with <org>DPP</org> faction leaders , described the cross-strait situation as extremely precarious , and said that since time is not on <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's side we need to step up efforts to resume dialogue with the mainland .


Separately , during his report to the Legislative Yuan on the Academia Sinica 's budget , Lee reiterated : " If the whole population could arrive at a consensus on ' one China , ' then President Chen would have no grounds for not accepting that consensus . "

Separately , during his report to <org>the Legislative Yuan</org> on <org>the Academia Sinica 's</org> budget , <person>Lee</person> reiterated : " If the whole population could arrive at a consensus on ' <cardinal>one</cardinal> <gpe>China</gpe> , ' then President <person>Chen</person> would have no grounds for not accepting that consensus . "


Lee added that he hoped the Advisory Group would shortly come to a firm conclusion on the " one China " issue .

<person>Lee</person> added that he hoped <org>the Advisory Group</org> would shortly come to a firm conclusion on the " <cardinal>one</cardinal> <gpe>China</gpe> " issue .


Lee Yuan - tseh 's appeal made little impression on the governing DPP , however .

<person>Lee Yuan - tseh 's</person> appeal made little impression on the governing <org>DPP</org> , however .


Furthermore , DPP chairman Frank Hsieh himself came under fire within the party after stating : " The constitution of the ROC is itself a one China framework .

Furthermore , <org>DPP</org> chairman <person>Frank Hsieh</person> himself came under fire within the party after stating : " The constitution of the <gpe>ROC</gpe> is itself a <cardinal>one</cardinal> <gpe>China</gpe> framework .


Since the DPP has participated in the process of constitutional amendment it ought to accept this constitution , and as the party of government we ca n't afford to override or reject it . "

Since the <org>DPP</org> has participated in the process of constitutional amendment it ought to accept this constitution , and as the party of government we ca n't afford to override or reject it . "


According to DPP lawmaker Lin Cho - shui , Chen Shui - bian has shown more goodwill to Beijing as president than Lee Teng - hui ever did , but without any response -

According to <org>DPP</org> lawmaker <person>Lin Cho - shui</person> , <person>Chen Shui - bian</person> has shown more goodwill to <gpe>Beijing</gpe> as president than <person>Lee Teng - hui</person> ever did , but without any response -


so why should he once again be expected to respond on the " one China " issue ?

so why should he once again be expected to respond on the " <cardinal>one</cardinal> <gpe>China</gpe> " issue ?


Also , Lin disagrees with Lee Yuan - tseh 's assertion that " time is not on our side , " and instead feels that things are no worse than before .

Also , <person>Lin</person> disagrees with <person>Lee Yuan - tseh 's</person> assertion that " time is not on our side , " and instead feels that things are no worse than before .


Meanwhile , the opposition alliance has been calling for the DPP to " shed its ideological baggage . "

Meanwhile , the opposition alliance has been calling for the <org>DPP</org> to " shed its ideological baggage . "


On November 24 the New Party , which had already pulled out of the Advisory Group , published an article in the press signed by leading members such as Yu Mu - ming and Chen Kui - miao , in which they called on the government to take the constitution as its starting point for breaking the " one China " deadlock .

On <date>November 24</date> <org>the New Party</org> , which had already pulled out of <org>the Advisory Group</org> , published an article in the press signed by leading members such as <person>Yu Mu - ming</person> and <person>Chen Kui - miao</person> , in which they called on the government to take the constitution as its starting point for breaking the " <cardinal>one</cardinal> <gpe>China</gpe> " deadlock .


They pointed out that Chen and the DPP had competed in elections in accordance with the constitution , winning the presidency and a share of seats in the legislature and the National Assembly , and had also participated in the process of revising the constitution .

They pointed out that <person>Chen</person> and the <org>DPP</org> had competed in elections in accordance with the constitution , winning the presidency and a share of seats in the legislature and <org>the National Assembly</org> , and had also participated in the process of revising the constitution .


Now , with its constitutionally granted mandate , the party has an obligation to fully uphold the constitution .


As the politicians argued , Formosa Plastics boss Wang Yung - ching convened a meeting with other captains of industry to come up with some advice for the government on economic policy .

As the politicians argued , <org>Formosa Plastics</org> boss <person>Wang Yung - ching</person> convened a meeting with other captains of industry to come up with some advice for the government on economic policy .


For the first time Wang voiced support for Lee Yuan - tseh 's proposal that " with ' one China ' as the precondition , each side can have its own interpretation . "

For the <ordinal>first</ordinal> time <person>Wang</person> voiced support for <person>Lee Yuan - tseh 's</person> proposal that " with ' <cardinal>one</cardinal> <gpe>China</gpe> ' as the precondition , each side can have its own interpretation . "


Wang also agreed with Lee 's notion that time is running out for Taiwan , in the belief that Taiwan will only have time on its side once it starts to carry out well - intentioned engagement with the mainland .

<person>Wang</person> also agreed with <person>Lee</person> 's notion that time is running out for <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> , in the belief that <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> will only have time on its side once it starts to carry out well - intentioned engagement with the mainland .


Consensus on the " one China question " is an urgent priority for both sides if there is to be a peaceful future .

Consensus on the " <cardinal>one</cardinal> <gpe>China</gpe> question " is an urgent priority for both sides if there is to be a peaceful future .


Wang Yung - ching 's demand for a review of the government 's " go slow " policy , and opening of the three direct links , brought a personal phone call from the president , who invited him to come and discuss policy .

<person>Wang Yung - ching 's</person> demand for a review of the government 's " go slow " policy , and opening of the <cardinal>three</cardinal> direct links , brought a personal phone call from the president , who invited him to come and discuss policy .


On November 25 Wang and a handful of other leading industrialists went to call on the president at his official residence .

On <date>November 25</date> <person>Wang</person> and a handful of other leading industrialists went to call on the president at his official residence .


The businessmen said that shelving the " one China " issue was not the right thing for the government to do , and that Taiwan could no longer afford to play word games .

The businessmen said that shelving the " <cardinal>one</cardinal> <gpe>China</gpe> " issue was not the right thing for the government to do , and that <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> could no longer afford to play word games .


They stressed the need for early restoration of the mechanism for cross-strait economic dialogue , and said that the government should also think about moving towards political dialogue .


The Presidential Advisory Group met again on November 26 , and discussed a proposal , made earlier by Public Television System chairman Wu Feng - shan and already favored by most members of the Group , for " one China " to be addressed through " three acknowledgements and four suggestions . "

<org>The Presidential Advisory Group</org> met again on <date>November 26</date> , and discussed a proposal , made earlier by <org>Public Television System</org> chairman <person>Wu Feng - shan</person> and already favored by most members of the <org>Group</org> , for " <cardinal>one</cardinal> <gpe>China</gpe> " to be addressed through " <cardinal>three</cardinal> acknowledgements and <cardinal>four</cardinal> suggestions . "


A firm consensus was finally arrived at , and the Group submitted to the president its proposal that Taiwan should " respond to the mainland 's ' one China ' proposition in accordance with the constitution of the ROC . "

A firm consensus was finally arrived at , and the <org>Group</org> submitted to the president its proposal that <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> should " respond to the mainland 's ' <cardinal>one</cardinal> <gpe>China</gpe> ' proposition in accordance with the constitution of the <gpe>ROC</gpe> . "


The government and opposition parties continued to disagree regarding this consensus .


DPP legislator Lin Cho - shui described it as " acceptable , if not very satisfactory . "

<org>DPP</org> legislator <person>Lin Cho - shui</person> described it as " acceptable , if not very satisfactory . "


PFP spokesman Li Ching - an called it " a conclusion without a conclusion . "

<org>PFP</org> spokesman <person>Li Ching - an</person> called it " a conclusion without a conclusion . "


New Party convenor Hau Lung - pin said the statement was too ambiguous , tending towards " one China , with each side free to make its own interpretation , " and added that it was highly unlikely to be used by the president as a guide for cross-strait policy .

<org>New Party</org> convenor <person>Hau Lung - pin</person> said the statement was too ambiguous , tending towards " <cardinal>one</cardinal> <gpe>China</gpe> , with each side free to make its own interpretation , " and added that it was highly unlikely to be used by the president as a guide for cross-strait policy .


Ting Shou - chung , deputy executive director of the KMT policy committee , said this so - called consensus was simply a case of going round and round on the spot , and would do nothing to solve the core problem .

<person>Ting Shou - chung</person> , deputy executive director of the <org>KMT</org> policy committee , said this so - called consensus was simply a case of going round and round on the spot , and would do nothing to solve the core problem .


In a November 28 press release , the Mainland Affairs Council -LRB- MAC -RRB- , the government body in charge of cross-strait affairs , diplomatically stated that it would observe and implement the suggestions of the Advisory Group if and when they become official government policy .

In a <date>November 28</date> press release , <org>the Mainland Affairs Council</org> -LRB- <org>MAC</org> -RRB- , the government body in charge of cross-strait affairs , diplomatically stated that it would observe and implement the suggestions of <org>the Advisory Group</org> if and when they become official government policy .


Speaking on the topic of the three direct links , MAC chairwoman Tsai Ing - wen said that these will be phased in according to conditions , with the first phase being the opening of direct business links as necessitated by the admission of both sides to the WTO .

Speaking on the topic of the <cardinal>three</cardinal> direct links , <org>MAC</org> chairwoman <person>Tsai Ing - wen</person> said that these will be phased in according to conditions , with the <ordinal>first</ordinal> phase being the opening of direct business links as necessitated by the admission of both sides to the <org>WTO</org> .


And according to economics minister Lin Hsin - yi , the government recognizes that the " go slow " policy needs to be relaxed , and will give a more thorough accounting of this before the end of the year .

And according to economics minister <person>Lin Hsin - yi</person> , the government recognizes that the " go slow " policy needs to be relaxed , and will give a more thorough accounting of this before <date>the end of the year</date> .


Tanshui : An Inspiration to Poets , Artists , and Romantics

<gpe>Tanshui</gpe> : An Inspiration to Poets , Artists , and Romantics


-LRB- Lin I - hsien / photos by Diago Chiu / tr. by Phil Newell -RRB-

-LRB- <person>Lin I - hsien</person> / photos by <person>Diago Chiu</person> / tr. by <person>Phil Newell</person> -RRB-


In paintings , a white cloud layer swirls over Mt. Kuanyin ;

In paintings , a white cloud layer swirls over <loc>Mt. Kuanyin</loc> ;


waves on the river drift like a breeze ;


a red sun dances on golden water ;


a yellow moon sings from a deep purple sky . . . .


The Tanshui of illustrations is a place of unblemished beauty , a myth that remains unshakeable .

The <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> of illustrations is a place of unblemished beauty , a myth that remains unshakeable .


In the 300 - plus years since its founding , this port town - formerly called Huwei , now Tanshui Township - has seen days of prosperity and has also been through a baptism of fire .

In <date>the 300 - plus years</date> since its founding , this port town - formerly called <gpe>Huwei</gpe> , now <gpe>Tanshui Township</gpe> - has seen days of prosperity and has also been through a baptism of fire .


What makes it special among the 309 urban and rural townships of Taiwan ?

What makes it special among the <cardinal>309</cardinal> urban and rural townships of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> ?


How do the people of Tanshui live today ?

How do the people of <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> live <date>today</date> ?


How do they recall the past ?


And how do they see the future ?


" You want to know how Tanshui has changed ?

" You want to know how <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> has changed ?


I would say that the biggest change is that the old streets are gone . "


So declares Tu Hsiu - yuan , proprietor of the Hui Yuan Pharmacy , and also director of the Huwei Cultural and Historical Workshop .

So declares <person>Tu Hsiu - yuan</person> , proprietor of <org>the Hui Yuan Pharmacy</org> , and also director of <org>the Huwei Cultural and Historical Workshop</org> .


His pharmacy is located on what is now called Chungcheng Road , one of the oldest streets , which Tanshui natives still call Huwei Street .

His pharmacy is located on what is now called <loc>Chungcheng Road</loc> , one of the oldest streets , which <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> natives still call <loc>Huwei Street</loc> .


Tu , who has lived his whole life in the old neighborhood , has watched from his doorstep as old shops have refurbished themselves in modern style , and modern shops have adopted the look of the old .

<person>Tu</person> , who has lived his whole life in the old neighborhood , has watched from his doorstep as old shops have refurbished themselves in modern style , and modern shops have adopted the look of the old .


For the convenience of cars , the streets have been widened repeatedly .


In 1988 , the last train on the old Tanshui Line of the railroad chugged into history , taking that old slower pace of life with it .

In <date>1988</date> , the last train on the old <fac>Tanshui Line</fac> of the railroad chugged into history , taking that old slower pace of life with it .


In 1997 the Tanshui Line of the mass rapid transit system opened , bringing floods of visitors to the town .

In <date>1997</date> <fac>the Tanshui Line</fac> of the mass rapid transit system opened , bringing floods of visitors to the town .


Yet , while these tourists bring a human touch to the streets on weekends and holidays , on ordinary weekdays the silence is accompanied only by leftover garbage , empty shops , and those Huwei people who refuse to leave their old homes .

Yet , while these tourists bring a human touch to the streets on weekends and holidays , on ordinary weekdays the silence is accompanied only by leftover garbage , empty shops , and those <gpe>Huwei</gpe> people who refuse to leave their old homes .


The golden age of Huwei


There are different explanations as to the origins of the word Huwei , the original name for Tanshui .

There are different explanations as to the origins of the word <gpe>Huwei</gpe> , the original name for <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> .


Some say it was a transliteration of the place name used by the indigenous people .


But others say it comes from a long - gone fishing practice , using a shi hu -LRB- " stone pool " -RRB- .


Early fishermen used stones to carve a long , narrow catchment -LRB- the so - called " pool " -RRB- in the sand , waiting for the tide to carry in fish which they could then easily scoop up .


Since the place now known as Tanshui was at the tail end -LRB- wei -RRB- of this stone pool , it came to be called Huwei .

Since the place now known as <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> was at the tail end -LRB- wei -RRB- of this stone pool , it came to be called <gpe>Huwei</gpe> .


Tanshui occupied an important place in the transport network connecting Taiwan to Southeast Asia .

<gpe>Tanshui</gpe> occupied an important place in the transport network connecting <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> to <loc>Southeast Asia</loc> .


Even before the arrival of Westerners in Taiwan , Han Chinese often crossed over from China to Tanshui , which is relatively close to the mainland .

Even before the arrival of <norp>Westerners</norp> in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> , <norp>Han Chinese</norp> often crossed over from <gpe>China</gpe> to <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> , which is relatively close to the mainland .


Here they engaged in barter trade with the Pingpu -LRB- meaning " plains " -RRB- aborigines , with deer skins and sulphur being the most coveted products .

Here they engaged in barter trade with the <norp>Pingpu</norp> -LRB- meaning " plains " -RRB- aborigines , with deer skins and sulphur being the most coveted products .


As Western powers turned their eyes to Asia , Tanshui became strategically important .

As <norp>Western</norp> powers turned their eyes to <loc>Asia</loc> , <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> became strategically important .


In the 17th century , first the Spanish , and then the Dutch , built forts here as symbols of their claims to territorial control .

In <date>the 17th century</date> , first the <norp>Spanish</norp> , and then the <norp>Dutch</norp> , built forts here as symbols of their claims to territorial control .


In the mid-17th century , China took control of Taiwan , and closed Tanshui to international trade .

In <date>the mid-17th century</date> , <gpe>China</gpe> took control of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> , and closed <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> to international trade .


Later , as a result of the Sino - French war of 1884 , Tanshui was again opened up to Western access .

Later , as a result of the <norp>Sino - French</norp> war of <date>1884</date> , <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> was again opened up to <norp>Western</norp> access .


During Tanshui 's golden age , large and small boats were constantly coming and going in the harbor , and it was not unusual to see enormous steamships .

During <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> 's golden age , large and small boats were constantly coming and going in the harbor , and it was not unusual to see enormous steamships .


In the latter part of the Qing dynasty , Tanshui was the largest port in Taiwan , and was the " customs headquarters , " also charged with overseeing port activities at Keelung , Tainan , and Kaohsiung .

In <date>the latter part of the Qing dynasty</date> , <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> was the largest port in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> , and was the " customs headquarters , " also charged with overseeing port activities at <gpe>Keelung</gpe> , <gpe>Tainan</gpe> , and <gpe>Kaohsiung</gpe> .


However , during the Japanese occupation , as a result of silting , and because the Japanese invested a huge effort in developing the port at Keelung , Tanshui faded in importance , never again to see the likes of its glory days .

However , during the <norp>Japanese</norp> occupation , as a result of silting , and because the <norp>Japanese</norp> invested a huge effort in developing the port at <gpe>Keelung</gpe> , <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> faded in importance , never again to see the likes of its glory days .


Tanshui is a place of many historic sites , a place that invites reflection on things past .

<gpe>Tanshui</gpe> is a place of many historic sites , a place that invites reflection on things past .


In the " foreign district , " a missionary named George Mackay established the first hospital for Western medicine in Taiwan ; it was here that in 1878 the first case of paragonimiasis in the world was diagnosed .

In the " foreign district , " a missionary named <person>George Mackay</person> established the <ordinal>first</ordinal> hospital for <norp>Western</norp> medicine in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> ; it was here that in <date>1878</date> the <ordinal>first</ordinal> case of paragonimiasis in the world was diagnosed .


The old church next to the hospital is a mecca for Tanshui painters .

The old church next to the hospital is a mecca for <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> painters .


The schools , homes , and consulates in the foreign district - some long gone , some still standing - testify to the fact that this was a place of intensive interaction between Chinese and Western cultures .

The schools , homes , and consulates in the foreign district - some long gone , some still standing - testify to the fact that this was a place of intensive interaction between <norp>Chinese</norp> and <norp>Western</norp> cultures .


If you go up Sanmin Street , you will discover the head of an old and disused water pipe .

If you go up <loc>Sanmin Street</loc> , you will discover the head of an old and disused water pipe .


This could be a relic left behind by one of the major Japanese infrastructure projects , the first tap water station .

This could be a relic left behind by one of the major <norp>Japanese</norp> infrastructure projects , the <ordinal>first</ordinal> tap water station .


Or you could walk instead next to the MRT station and see another first for Taiwan : the first seaplane landing area , also built in the Japanese occupation era .

Or you could walk instead next to <fac>the MRT station</fac> and see another <ordinal>first</ordinal> for <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> : the <ordinal>first</ordinal> seaplane landing area , also built in the <norp>Japanese</norp> occupation era .


Or you could visit the venerable Tamkang Secondary School .

Or you could visit the venerable <org>Tamkang Secondary School</org> .


As you watch the children laughing and arguing and playing , you can think back to the time when the Japanese government did not allow Taiwanese and Japanese to attend school together .

As you watch the children laughing and arguing and playing , you can think back to the time when the <norp>Japanese</norp> government did not allow <norp>Taiwanese</norp> and <norp>Japanese</norp> to attend school together .


Under those circumstances , Tamkang Middle School became a cradle for the training of Taiwanese elites .

Under those circumstances , <org>Tamkang Middle School</org> became a cradle for the training of <norp>Taiwanese</norp> elites .


Gradually you will discover that Tanshui is a bookish place .

Gradually you will discover that <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> is a bookish place .


This little town has everything from nursery schools to graduate schools .


During the reign of the Guangxu emperor of the Qing dynasty -LRB- which began in 1875 -RRB- , and prior to the beginning of the Japanese occupation in 1895 , Tanshui produced two successful candidates in the highest level military exam , one in the highest level civil exam , and countless successes in lower - level imperial exams .

During the reign of the <gpe>Guangxu</gpe> emperor of <date>the Qing dynasty</date> -LRB- which began in <date>1875</date> -RRB- , and prior to the beginning of the <norp>Japanese</norp> occupation in <date>1895</date> , <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> produced <cardinal>two</cardinal> successful candidates in the highest level military exam , <cardinal>one</cardinal> in the highest level civil exam , and countless successes in lower - level imperial exams .


Even in modern times , the town has not passed up chances to embrace knowledge : When the idea of founding Tam - kang University in Tanshui was going to be abandoned because of a lack of land and money , local residents offered cheap land , donated money , and lobbied so that the university could set its roots in town .

Even in modern times , the town has not passed up chances to embrace knowledge : When the idea of founding <org>Tam - kang University</org> in <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> was going to be abandoned because of a lack of land and money , local residents offered cheap land , donated money , and lobbied so that the university could set its roots in town .


These historic sites are near the river , but do n't spend all your time there .


Do n't forget the Tatun Mountains , which shelter the town .

Do n't forget <loc>the Tatun Mountains</loc> , which shelter the town .


In the old days , Tanshui folk who cultivated farms on the slopes had to walk for an hour to get to their crops .

In the old days , <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> folk who cultivated farms on the slopes had to walk for <time>an hour</time> to get to their crops .


These days you can take a local mini-bus .


In the mountains you will see the occasional terraced field grown over with weeds .


This land , which has gone from grass to grain and back to grass again , is where many an old Tanshui native played when they were children .

This land , which has gone from grass to grain and back to grass again , is where many an old <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> native played when they were children .


The Tanshui mystique


The mountains are also filled with old stories .


The often - renovated Hsing Chung Tang shop is more than a century old .

The often - renovated <person>Hsing Chung Tang</person> shop is <date>more than a century</date> old .


Owner Li Yung - kun is a descendant of the eminent Li family of Tanshui , which produced three juren -LRB- a successful candidate in provincial - level exams , held every three years -RRB- .

Owner <person>Li Yung - kun</person> is a descendant of the eminent <person>Li</person> family of <person>Tanshui</person> , which produced <cardinal>three</cardinal> juren -LRB- a successful candidate in provincial - level exams , held every <cardinal>three</cardinal> years -RRB- .


The house testifies to this past : It has a swallow - tailed roof and a flagpole , features that only the home of a juren was entitled to have .


Li Mingbin -LRB- whose name by birth is Li Minghui -RRB- , a scholar from Beijing University currently working at Chinese Culture University on an exchange program , is a descendant of the juren Li Yingzhen , who was wounded resisting the Japanese occupation and fled to the mainland , where he settled down .

<person>Li Mingbin</person> -LRB- whose name by birth is <person>Li Minghui</person> -RRB- , a scholar from <org>Beijing University</org> currently working at <org>Chinese Culture University</org> on an exchange program , is a descendant of the juren <person>Li Yingzhen</person> , who was wounded resisting the <norp>Japanese</norp> occupation and fled to the mainland , where he settled down .


Like his elders , Li Mingbin bridges the gap across the Taiwan Strait , as he is capable of conversing fluently in either Beijing dialect or the southern Fujian dialect used in Taiwan .

Like his elders , <person>Li Mingbin</person> bridges the gap across <loc>the Taiwan Strait</loc> , as he is capable of conversing fluently in either <gpe>Beijing</gpe> dialect or the southern <gpe>Fujian</gpe> dialect used in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> .


Of course , stories do n't have to be old to be interesting .


Today 's Tanshui residents are living their own stories .

<date>Today</date> 's <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> residents are living their own stories .


The crotchety but modest guy who delivers the newspapers , the seafood restaurant owner who has made his fortune from scratch , the old man at the roadside food stall , the hostess in the tea house greeting and sending off guests . . . .


Some are active in the early morning , some late at night .


Though the founders of many of these shops have passed away , the second generation has taken the baton .

Though the founders of many of these shops have passed away , the <ordinal>second</ordinal> generation has taken the baton .


In the old bamboo tea shop , the now elderly hostess still plays her role amidst the ambience of wine and tea , offering a feminine presence to help put at ease her customers who come looking for a little relaxation , evoking the bewitching atmosphere of Tanshui at night .

In the old bamboo tea shop , the now elderly hostess still plays her role amidst the ambience of wine and tea , offering a feminine presence to help put at ease her customers who come looking for a little relaxation , evoking the bewitching atmosphere of <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> at night .


Businessmen from outside , smelling profits , have set up gaudy storefronts and neon signs , hoping to trade on Tanshui 's mystique to sell coffee , seafood , antiques , and snack foods .

Businessmen from outside , smelling profits , have set up gaudy storefronts and neon signs , hoping to trade on <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> 's mystique to sell coffee , seafood , antiques , and snack foods .


Students , who have enough money to keep several streets of shops going , carelessly wheel their motorcycles through the narrow streets , their minds elsewhere , thinking of youthful fun or romance .


Happy couples and jilted lovers line the river , displaying their joy or sadness in their postures : two people 's shadows are melted together by the darkened river behind , while others stand alone on the riverbank like statues .

Happy couples and jilted lovers line the river , displaying their joy or sadness in their postures : <cardinal>two</cardinal> people 's shadows are melted together by the darkened river behind , while others stand alone on the riverbank like statues .


The weeping river


Have you heard of the weeping junks ?


During the Sino - French war , Taiwan governor Liu Mingchuan , attempting to obstruct a French landing , scuttled several of these boats .

During <event>the Sino - French war</event> , <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> governor <person>Liu Mingchuan</person> , attempting to obstruct a <norp>French</norp> landing , scuttled several of these boats .


It is said that , late at night , the sunken junks make moaning sounds .


But I think that it may be the river itself that is moaning .


In 1998 , the government produced a plan for a riverside expressway to Tanshui .

In <date>1998</date> , the government produced a plan for a riverside expressway to <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> .


The road , which was expected to have three levels , would have cut through rare mangroves and created a barrier between the river and the town of Tanshui .

The road , which was expected to have <cardinal>three</cardinal> levels , would have cut through rare mangroves and created a barrier between the river and the town of <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> .


If the plan had been implemented , people who wanted to go to Tanshui and gaze out over the river would have had to find some very high vantage point in town to do so !

If the plan had been implemented , people who wanted to go to <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> and gaze out over the river would have had to find some very high vantage point in town to do so !


Fortunately , thanks to efforts by cultural and environmental activists from Tanshui , the plan was first postponed , and then was ultimately killed after an environmental impact assessment released in September refused to approve the scheme .

Fortunately , thanks to efforts by cultural and environmental activists from <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> , the plan was <ordinal>first</ordinal> postponed , and then was ultimately killed after an environmental impact assessment released in <date>September</date> refused to approve the scheme .


But a question remains : Is something like this bound to come sooner or later ?


" For the purposes of development , the Tanshui coast has been constantly exploited .

" For the purposes of development , the <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> coast has been constantly exploited .


But what will be result of this incessant struggle against nature ? " says an agitated Tu Hsiu - yuan .

But what will be result of this incessant struggle against nature ? " says an agitated <person>Tu Hsiu - yuan</person> .


And Hsieh Teh - hsi of the Tamsui Culture Foundation adds : " High - rises are going up one after another in Tanshui New Town [ a huge government - planned development ] , but many of the apartments remain empty .

And <person>Hsieh Teh - hsi</person> of <org>the Tamsui Culture Foundation</org> adds : " High - rises are going up <cardinal>one</cardinal> after another in <gpe>Tanshui New Town</gpe> [ a huge government - planned development ] , but many of the apartments remain empty .


Everybody here knows that when the northeast winds blow in during the winter , that is the coldest place around .


No wonder those apartments are not selling ! "


Tu says , with disbelief and exasperation in his voice : " Do you know that they are going to build a huge bridge between Tanshui and Pali ?

<person>Tu</person> says , with disbelief and exasperation in his voice : " Do you know that they are going to build a huge bridge between <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> and <gpe>Pali</gpe> ?


It 's such a beautiful and historic location , but they are just going to stick up a bridge there , and they are even talking about having a rotating restaurant on top ! "


Lovers of Tanshui , while keeping close watch over her , are fearful that the giant beast of development may eventually come and bulldoze Tanshui away one piece of land at a time .

Lovers of <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> , while keeping close watch over her , are fearful that the giant beast of development may eventually come and bulldoze <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> away <cardinal>one</cardinal> piece of land at a time .


They fear that their children , like they themselves , will have to search through photographs and memories to find Tanshui 's traditional simplicity and the joys of being close to nature .

They fear that their children , like they themselves , will have to search through photographs and memories to find <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> 's traditional simplicity and the joys of being close to nature .


When the old buildings are gone , and people lose contact with the great outdoors , will Tanshui even be worthy of its reputation anymore ?

When the old buildings are gone , and people lose contact with the great outdoors , will <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> even be worthy of its reputation anymore ?


Scattered wooden fishing boats bob in the river .


I have n't met any of the fishermen who these days go out and catch only small fry .


They might relate how in the old days they could just put a hand in the river and come up with a big catch .


The lonely fishing boats are waiting for the Tanshui - Pali ferry to pass by and say hello .

The lonely fishing boats are waiting for the <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> - <gpe>Pali</gpe> ferry to pass by and say hello .


Those lanterns moving through the river are actually the ferry , while those stars flashing in the distance are beams of light that come from the lighthouse every five seconds .

Those lanterns moving through the river are actually the ferry , while those stars flashing in the distance are beams of light that come from the lighthouse every <cardinal>five</cardinal> seconds .


It is only now that I realize that , even in the drabbest weather , Tanshui is still beautiful .

It is only now that I realize that , even in the drabbest weather , <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> is still beautiful .


Taiwan 's Townships


When you look at a map , what do the 309 townships of Taiwan mean to you ?

When you look at a map , what do the <cardinal>309</cardinal> townships of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> mean to you ?


Do you draw a complete blank on all of them ?


Or do some of the names evoke beautiful memories ?


What do these townships have to offer visitors ?


What interesting or famous characters have they given birth to ?


In this age of the global village , how much do you know about the village next door ?


Sinorama wants to take you on a journey through Taiwan 's 309 townships large and small : As they follow their individual rhythms , what is it that enables them to create their own music , and what can we hear in the songs they sing ?

<org>Sinorama</org> wants to take you on a journey through <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's <cardinal>309</cardinal> townships large and small : As they follow their individual rhythms , what is it that enables them to create their own music , and what can we hear in the songs they sing ?


Tanshui Facts and Figures


Tanshui Township -LRB- also spelled Tamsui -RRB- is part of Taipei County .

<gpe>Tanshui Township</gpe> -LRB- also spelled <gpe>Tamsui</gpe> -RRB- is part of <gpe>Taipei County</gpe> .


It abuts Sanchih Rural Township to the northeast , the Kuantu area of Taipei City to the southeast , and the Taiwan Strait to the northwest ; to the southwest it faces Pali Rural Township over the Tanshui River .

It abuts <gpe>Sanchih Rural Township</gpe> to the northeast , the <loc>Kuantu</loc> area of <gpe>Taipei City</gpe> to the southeast , and <loc>the Taiwan Strait</loc> to the northwest ; to the southwest it faces <gpe>Pali Rural Township</gpe> over <loc>the Tanshui River</loc> .


It covers an area of just over 70 square kilometers , and has a population of 115,000 .

It covers an area of just <quantity>over 70 square kilometers</quantity> , and has a population of <cardinal>115,000</cardinal> .


It is the largest paddy - rice producing area in Taipei County .

It is the largest paddy - rice producing area in <gpe>Taipei County</gpe> .


In days gone by , because the Kuroshio current passes close by , the waters offshore were rich fishing grounds .

In days gone by , because the <loc>Kuroshio</loc> current passes close by , the waters offshore were rich fishing grounds .


However , in recent years , pollution from the Tanshui River and exhaustion of fish stocks have caused the catch to dwindle .

However , in <date>recent years</date> , pollution from <loc>the Tanshui River</loc> and exhaustion of fish stocks have caused the catch to dwindle .


Among the more famous tourist sites are Fort San Domingo , Yin Shan Temple , the Lixuetang school -LRB- known in English as Oxford College , founded in 1882 to train missionaries -RRB- , Huwei cannon emplacement , the mangrove conservation area , Shalun beach recreation area , the historic buildings of the Mackay Hospital and Tamkang Middle School , " Antiques Street " -LRB- Chungcheng Road -RRB- , and the ferry pier .

Among the more famous tourist sites are <fac>Fort San Domingo</fac> , <fac>Yin Shan Temple</fac> , <org>the Lixuetang school</org> -LRB- known in <language>English</language> as <org>Oxford College</org> , founded in <date>1882</date> to train missionaries -RRB- , <gpe>Huwei</gpe> cannon emplacement , the mangrove conservation area , <loc>Shalun</loc> beach recreation area , the historic buildings of <fac>the Mackay Hospital</fac> and <fac>Tamkang Middle School</fac> , " <loc>Antiques Street</loc> " -LRB- <loc>Chungcheng Road</loc> -RRB- , and the ferry pier .


Public transportation includes inter-city bus service , the Tanshui Line of the Taipei mass rapid transit system , and local buses .

Public transportation includes inter-city bus service , <fac>the Tanshui Line</fac> of the <gpe>Taipei</gpe> mass rapid transit system , and local buses .


For more detailed information visit http://www.tamsui.gov.tw/ .


p. 094


High - rises are thought by many to represent development , but in Tanshui they are ruining the skyline and the historic ambience of the town .

High - rises are thought by many to represent development , but in <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> they are ruining the skyline and the historic ambience of the town .


p. 095


An old Tanshui resident sits with legs crossed reading the paper , as the passage of time , marked on the calendar on the wall , adds a gloss to the antiques .

An old <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> resident sits with legs crossed reading the paper , as the passage of time , marked on the calendar on the wall , adds a gloss to the antiques .


p. 096


-LRB- facing page -RRB-


These lovers may be gazing at Tanshui with their eyes , but their hearts have eyes only for one another .

These lovers may be gazing at <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> with their eyes , but their hearts have eyes only for one another .


Tranquil and romantic Tanshui is a great place for wedding photos .

Tranquil and romantic <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> is a great place for wedding photos .


p. 097


As the lazy sun displays an extraordinary beauty , a fishing boat drifts toward shore over the golden water .


The Remaking of Linpien


Home of the Black Pearl Wax Apple


-LRB- Teng Sue - feng / photos by Jimmy Lin / tr. by Christopher MacDonald -RRB-

-LRB- <person>Teng Sue - feng</person> / photos by <person>Jimmy Lin</person> / tr. by <person>Christopher MacDonald</person> -RRB-


Even if the township of Linpien does n't have a monopoly on the cultivation of " black pearl " wax apples , it was orchards in the Linpien locality that earned black pearls their national renown .

Even if the township of <gpe>Linpien</gpe> does n't have a monopoly on the cultivation of " black pearl " wax apples , it was orchards in the <gpe>Linpien</gpe> locality that earned black pearls their national renown .


A little town formerly notorious for its ground subsidence problem , Linpien is now turning itself into one of Southern Taiwan 's premier tourist attractions .

A little town formerly notorious for its ground subsidence problem , <gpe>Linpien</gpe> is now turning itself into <cardinal>one</cardinal> of <loc>Southern Taiwan 's</loc> premier tourist attractions .


The impetus for this change has come chiefly from local historians , along with various voluntary groups .


Just before Christmas break , the rural township of Linpien , on the Pingtung Plain at the mouth of the Linpien river , held its first ever Wax Apple Festival .

Just before <event>Christmas</event> break , the rural township of <gpe>Linpien</gpe> , on <loc>the Pingtung Plain</loc> at the mouth of the <gpe>Linpien</gpe> river , held its <ordinal>first</ordinal> ever <event>Wax Apple Festival</event> .


The festival , in the town 's riverside park , was held to promote black pearl wax apples and celebrate the local volunteer spirit .


It was a scorching hot day , and heavily perspiring visitors were to be seen wandering among the stalls , lugging bags of wax apples and commenting on their remarkable sweetness .


" There 's a lot more than you 'd think to growing wax apples , " says local farmer Chen Sheng - tzung .

" There 's a lot more than you 'd think to growing wax apples , " says local farmer <person>Chen Sheng - tzung</person> .


" How you take care of the orchards , which equipment you use - it all has an affect on the shape and texture of the fruit . "


Prices for wax apples range widely , from around 3 pounds for NT$ 100 to NT$ 150 a pound .

Prices for wax apples range widely , from around <quantity>3 pounds</quantity> for <money>NT$ 100</money> to <money>NT$ 150</money> a pound .


Fruit that shows a hint of black through the red color of the skin fetches the best price .


Huang Wan - fu , whose family farms two hectares of orchard with more than 700 wax apple trees , and who has over 30 years ' experience as a fruit grower , says that while other parts of Pingtung County also grow wax apples , " Linpien stands out for its growing techniques , developed through trial and error by the growers themselves , and for vernalization rates of up to 90 % . "

<person>Huang Wan - fu</person> , whose family farms <quantity>two hectares</quantity> of orchard with <cardinal>more than 700</cardinal> wax apple trees , and who has over <date>30 years</date> ' experience as a fruit grower , says that while other parts of <gpe>Pingtung County</gpe> also grow wax apples , " <gpe>Linpien</gpe> stands out for its growing techniques , developed through trial and error by the growers themselves , and for vernalization rates of up to <percent>90 %</percent> . "


Ugly duckling no more


The wax apple is a tropical fruit originating from the Malay peninsula .

The wax apple is a tropical fruit originating from the <norp>Malay</norp> peninsula .


The Dutch brought it to Taiwan from Java , in the 17th century , and it became commonly grown as a shade - giving tree .

The <norp>Dutch</norp> brought it to <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> from <gpe>Java</gpe> , in <date>the 17th century</date> , and it became commonly grown as a shade - giving tree .


Old folk in the South remember when wax apples were " just something to munch on " - the kind of fruit that grew freely and that you could help yourself to .

Old folk in the <loc>South</loc> remember when wax apples were " just something to munch on " - the kind of fruit that grew freely and that you could help yourself to .


But wax apples have increased in value during the past 30 years , thanks to advances in the way that they are grown .

But wax apples have increased in value during <date>the past 30 years</date> , thanks to advances in the way that they are grown .


For example , the " bag - wrap " method was originally a way of protecting budding fruit from birds , but once it was introduced to Linpien , in around 1994 , farmers found it enabled them to grow more lustrous , shiny - looking wax apples , with less pesticide on the skin .

For example , the " bag - wrap " method was originally a way of protecting budding fruit from birds , but once it was introduced to <gpe>Linpien</gpe> , in around <date>1994</date> , farmers found it enabled them to grow more lustrous , shiny - looking wax apples , with less pesticide on the skin .


The method soon caught on throughout the district .


Another popular technique involves covering the trees with black mosquito nets to improve yields .


This reduces the amount of sunlight reaching the trees , causing nutrients from the leaves and branches to be diverted into producing fruit .


The net - covered trees blossom earlier and produce more fruit .


As a result of this technique , black pearl wax apples are now available throughout most of the year .

As a result of this technique , black pearl wax apples are now available throughout <date>most of the year</date> .


The " black pearl " tag did n't originate in Linpien , but it was Linpien wax apples that made the variety famous and prompted the dramatic growth of its market .

The " black pearl " tag did n't originate in <gpe>Linpien</gpe> , but it was <gpe>Linpien</gpe> wax apples that made the variety famous and prompted the dramatic growth of its market .


In 1983 the then - provincial governor Lee Teng - hui visited the town and praised the quality of its black pearl wax apples , so assuring the renown of the fruit .

In <date>1983</date> the then - provincial governor <person>Lee Teng - hui</person> visited the town and praised the quality of its black pearl wax apples , so assuring the renown of the fruit .


Subsequently , as president , Lee Teng - hui often gave gifts of black pearl wax apples to foreign dignitaries .

Subsequently , as president , <person>Lee Teng - hui</person> often gave gifts of black pearl wax apples to foreign dignitaries .


Green hills


The success of black pearl wax apples gave Linpien a much - needed boost , bringing some of the younger generation back to the area to grow the fruit .

The success of black pearl wax apples gave <gpe>Linpien</gpe> a much - needed boost , bringing some of the younger generation back to the area to grow the fruit .


The credit for putting wax apples at the heart of the town 's revival and for mounting the Wax Apple Festival belongs with a group of volunteer workers - local people committed to the town 's regeneration .

The credit for putting wax apples at the heart of the town 's revival and for mounting <event>the Wax Apple Festival</event> belongs with a group of volunteer workers - local people committed to the town 's regeneration .


How does a small town like Linpien come to be home to such a well - organized volunteer effort , and just how did the volunteers set about giving their town a make - over ?

How does a small town like <gpe>Linpien</gpe> come to be home to such a well - organized volunteer effort , and just how did the volunteers set about giving their town a make - over ?


The story begins with the town 's riverside park .


The road linking the town 's main street with the riverside park , where locals like to stroll and chat at the beginning and end of the day , used to be overgrown and lined with trash .


Now , however , thanks to a coordinated effort involving volunteers , residents and landlords , the verges are planted with sunflowers and lantana , while a former mud patch , donated rent - free by its owner , has been converted into a carp - filled lotus pool .


The revamping of Linpien started eight or nine years ago , when schoolteacher Tsao Chi - hung - now a DPP deputy in the national legislature - along with fellow members of the Linpien Residents ' Democracy Association launched a program to sweep the streets and keep the riverbank clean .

The revamping of <gpe>Linpien</gpe> started <date>eight or nine years ago</date> , when schoolteacher <person>Tsao Chi - hung</person> - now a <org>DPP</org> deputy in the national legislature - along with fellow members of <org>the Linpien Residents ' Democracy Association</org> launched a program to sweep the streets and keep the riverbank clean .


Wu Wu - ta , a plumber who runs the Democracy Association , says : " People were already doing their bit for the community over ten years ago , but not openly .

<person>Wu Wu - ta</person> , a plumber who runs <org>the Democracy Association</org> , says : " People were already doing their bit for the community over <date>ten years ago</date> , but not openly .


They swept the streets before dawn because they did n't want people to see them and call them crazy . "


It was only three years ago , with the founding of the non-political Linpien Natural History Conservation Association , that residents began to publicly support the project .

It was only <date>three years ago</date> , with the founding of the non-political <org>Linpien Natural History Conservation Association</org> , that residents began to publicly support the project .


The flood - prone Linpien River has been dyked and dredged since the Japanese colonial era , but the bare concrete embankments never did much for the scenery .

The flood - prone <loc>Linpien River</loc> has been dyked and dredged since the <norp>Japanese</norp> colonial era , but the bare concrete embankments never did much for the scenery .


In 1999 Tsao Chi - hung learned that the Water Conservancy Bureau was planning to renovate the flood defenses , and he proposed a scheme for " greenification " of the riverside area .

In <date>1999</date> <person>Tsao Chi - hung</person> learned that <org>the Water Conservancy Bureau</org> was planning to renovate the flood defenses , and he proposed a scheme for " greenification " of the riverside area .


Objections were raised , however , with some pointing out that the site , if left untended , could easily get overgrown and become a breeding ground for snakes and vermin .


The issue was discussed and finally the Bureau agreed to let volunteers maintain the riverside area for two years .

The issue was discussed and finally the <org>Bureau</org> agreed to let volunteers maintain the riverside area for <date>two years</date> .


If the scheme did n't work out then the Bureau would concrete over the site as originally planned .

If the scheme did n't work out then the <org>Bureau</org> would concrete over the site as originally planned .


Following the lead of the conservation association and the Democracy Association , various volunteer groups in the district - including the senior citizens ' club , members of Tzu Chi Buddhist Foundation , the Presbyterian Church , and followers of the I - Kuan Tao sect - signed up to share responsibility for the riverside park , which was divided into 90 - meter - long plots for the purpose .

Following the lead of the conservation association and <org>the Democracy Association</org> , various volunteer groups in the district - including the senior citizens ' club , members of <org>Tzu Chi Buddhist Foundation</org> , <org>the Presbyterian Church</org> , and followers of the <org>I - Kuan Tao</org> sect - signed up to share responsibility for the riverside park , which was divided into <quantity>90 - meter</quantity> - long plots for the purpose .


Turf was laid , flower beds appeared , and the embankment soon became a 1.2 km - long " green Great Wall . "

Turf was laid , flower beds appeared , and the embankment soon became a <quantity>1.2 km</quantity> - long " green <fac>Great Wall</fac> . "


Dreaming by the river


" You ca n't go about community work in a standoffish way , and you certainly ca n't operate effectively from behind the scenes - you have to be out there at the front of things .


When local people see teachers and doctors coming out to collect trash , they feel encouraged to join in , " says Chen Chin - chao , a dentist who chairs the Linpien Natural History Conservation Association .

When local people see teachers and doctors coming out to collect trash , they feel encouraged to join in , " says <person>Chen Chin - chao</person> , a dentist who chairs <org>the Linpien Natural History Conservation Association</org> .


Chen frets about the way the media has focused the spotlight on him alone , when numerous other individuals are also involved , all chipping in what they can .

<person>Chen</person> frets about the way the media has focused the spotlight on him alone , when numerous other individuals are also involved , all chipping in what they can .


" The biggest achievement is that the flowers have n't been stolen , " says Tsao Chi - hung .

" The biggest achievement is that the flowers have n't been stolen , " says <person>Tsao Chi - hung</person> .


" As more people volunteer to help , disruptive behavior becomes less and less likely . "


The riverside area used to be a teenage hangout , known for its drinking and fighting , but since greenification the town 's residents have been coming here to stroll and enjoy the scenery : green hills to the East , the sunset in the West , and the dreamy river alongside the park .

The riverside area used to be a teenage hangout , known for its drinking and fighting , but since greenification the town 's residents have been coming here to stroll and enjoy the scenery : green hills to the <loc>East</loc> , the sunset in the <loc>West</loc> , and the dreamy river alongside the park .


" The more that people get involved the greater their sense of accomplishment , " says Tsao .

" The more that people get involved the greater their sense of accomplishment , " says <person>Tsao</person> .


" It 's not just about tidying up the environment .


We also hope to foster the commercial interests of the community so as to bring practical benefits for people 's lives . "


This was the thinking behind Tsao 's gathering together of various groups for the Wax Apple Festival .

This was the thinking behind <person>Tsao</person> 's gathering together of various groups for <event>the Wax Apple Festival</event> .


According to the archives , 400 years ago Linpien was a plains - aborigine settlement called " Fang - suo - she . "

According to the archives , <date>400 years ago</date> <gpe>Linpien</gpe> was a plains - aborigine settlement called " <gpe>Fang - suo - she</gpe> . "


In the middle of the 17th century the Ming dynasty loyalist Zheng Chenggong -LRB- also known as Koxinga -RRB- brought an influx of settlers to Taiwan from the Fujian and Guangdong regions of China .

In <date>the middle of the 17th century</date> the <date>Ming dynasty</date> loyalist <person>Zheng Chenggong</person> -LRB- also known as <person>Koxinga</person> -RRB- brought an influx of settlers to <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> from the <gpe>Fujian</gpe> and <gpe>Guangdong</gpe> regions of <gpe>China</gpe> .


Some of the Fang - suo - she aborigines stayed and intermarried with Chinese , while others moved away .

Some of the <person>Fang - suo - she</person> aborigines stayed and intermarried with <norp>Chinese</norp> , while others moved away .


The oldest recorded use of the name " Linpien " is on a stele , erected in 1762 , next to the town 's Sanshan King Temple .

The oldest recorded use of the name " <gpe>Linpien</gpe> " is on a stele , erected in <date>1762</date> , next to the town 's <fac>Sanshan King Temple</fac> .


The name , which means " beside the forest , " indicates that the early settlers must have had a tough time clearing land for their crops .


Moving to center - stage


In the past half century or more Linpien has concentrated on a series of different forms of produce , from rice , to bananas , to prawn and eel farming , to wax apples - today 's main crop .

In <date>the past half century</date> or more <gpe>Linpien</gpe> has concentrated on a series of different forms of produce , from rice , to bananas , to prawn and eel farming , to wax apples - today 's main crop .


With Taiwan 's imminent accession to the WTO , the next big change could be just around the corner .

With <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's imminent accession to the <org>WTO</org> , the next big change could be just around the corner .


For example , will wax apples lose their market to imported fruit ?


And what does Linpien have to offer that other districts in the county ca n't easily duplicate ?

And what does <gpe>Linpien</gpe> have to offer that other districts in the county ca n't easily duplicate ?


Yang Hung - jen , a PhD student at National Taiwan University 's Graduate Institute of Sociology , came to Linpien a year ago to research his thesis on the renewal of the local community .

<person>Yang Hung - jen</person> , a <work_of_art>PhD</work_of_art> student at <org>National Taiwan University 's</org> <org>Graduate Institute of Sociology</org> , came to <gpe>Linpien</gpe> <date>a year ago</date> to research his thesis on the renewal of the local community .


" I had come to what was said to be the worst county in Taiwan for factionalism and corruption , " says Yang , " a place where the ground had sunk as much as three meters due to subsidence .

" I had come to what was said to be the worst county in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> for factionalism and corruption , " says <person>Yang</person> , " a place where the ground had sunk as much as <quantity>three meters</quantity> due to subsidence .


But the contrast between that image and what I actually found here was quite something . "


For Yang , the way that those most active in the renewal effort routinely pass the credit to others is itself impressive .

For <person>Yang</person> , the way that those most active in the renewal effort routinely pass the credit to others is itself impressive .


Linpien rose to prominence on the strength of its celebrated wax apples .

<gpe>Linpien</gpe> rose to prominence on the strength of its celebrated wax apples .


But can it now push its way to center - stage as a tourist attraction ?


Says Chen Chin - chao : " We ca n't yet say how things will turn out for Linpien .

Says <person>Chen Chin - chao</person> : " We ca n't yet say how things will turn out for <gpe>Linpien</gpe> .


But that 's not to be pessimistic about the town 's prospects ; it 's simply a case of not building castles in the air . "


Development of the long - promised Tapeng Bay Scenic Area is due to begin , and in 2003 the 2nd Southern Freeway will open .

Development of the long - promised <loc>Tapeng Bay Scenic Area</loc> is due to begin , and in <date>2003</date> <fac>the 2nd Southern Freeway</fac> will open .


Will this bring more prosperity to the area ?


Construction of a bypass around the town has already boosted property values , but what other benefits may it bring ?


A golf course is mooted , but will that mean the loss of birdwatching zones and the mangrove woods ?


Can the wax apple orchards be adapted to serve as a setting for family outings ?


And can fish farms in the locality be converted to provide housing and accommodation , and a recreation alternative for visitors ?


Can this little town make an asset of its scenic location and historical roots to attract more visitors ?


Linpien used to be little more than a brief stop for travelers on their way to the seaside resort of Kenting , but now its residents are wondering if they can turn the town into a destination in its own right .

<gpe>Linpien</gpe> used to be little more than a brief stop for travelers on their way to the seaside resort of <gpe>Kenting</gpe> , but now its residents are wondering if they can turn the town into a destination in its own right .


Linpien Facts and Figures


Linpien Rural Township is in Pingtung County , located on the Pingtung Plain at the mouth of the Linpien River .

<gpe>Linpien Rural Township</gpe> is in <gpe>Pingtung County</gpe> , located on <loc>the Pingtung Plain</loc> at the mouth of <loc>the Linpien River</loc> .


It is adjacent to the planned Tapeng Bay Scenic Area , and marks the point where the 2nd Southern Freeway will terminate .

It is adjacent to the planned <loc>Tapeng Bay Scenic Area</loc> , and marks the point where <fac>the 2nd Southern Freeway</fac> will terminate .


At 15.6 sq. km in area , it is the second smallest of Pingtung County 's 33 townships , and has a population of around 23,000 .

At <quantity>15.6 sq. km</quantity> in area , it is the <ordinal>second</ordinal> smallest of <gpe>Pingtung County 's</gpe> <cardinal>33</cardinal> townships , and has a population of around <cardinal>23,000</cardinal> .


Wax apples and aquaculture products are the main commodities , with betel nut and coconut also grown .


One - third of the township 's land is below sea level .

<cardinal>One - third</cardinal> of the township 's land is below sea level .


Visitors are recommended to try the local seafood and also not to miss the opportunity for bird - watching among the nearby estuaries , wetlands and mangrove woods .


There are also cultural relics including traces of the original plains - aborigine inhabitants .


Linpien can be reached along Provincial Highway 17 .

<gpe>Linpien</gpe> can be reached along <fac>Provincial Highway 17</fac> .


The town has a railway station and can also be accessed by public and private bus services .


For more information check out : www.taconet.com.tw/cstudio/


p. 45


Using special growing techniques , the farmers of Linpien control the quantity of blossoms on the trees so as to optimize the production of their treasured black pearl wax apples .

Using special growing techniques , the farmers of <gpe>Linpien</gpe> control the quantity of blossoms on the trees so as to optimize the production of their treasured black pearl wax apples .


p. 46


Aquaculture provides for full nets and full bellies , but it is also the culprit behind Linpien 's severe subsidence problem .

Aquaculture provides for full nets and full bellies , but it is also the culprit behind <gpe>Linpien</gpe> 's severe subsidence problem .


The acreage of fish farms has halved in recent years , due to the combination of falling profits and environmental degradation .

The acreage of fish farms has halved in <date>recent years</date> , due to the combination of falling profits and environmental degradation .


p. 47


Subsidence has been caused by the over-extraction of ground - water for aquaculture .


Some of the houses on the Linpien - Chiatung coastal strip have sunk to the degree that their windows are level with the street and their rooves are within easy reach .

Some of the houses on the <gpe>Linpien</gpe> - <gpe>Chiatung</gpe> coastal strip have sunk to the degree that their windows are level with the street and their rooves are within easy reach .


p. 48


The gardens of the riverside park , laid out and maintained by local volunteers , cover land that used to be overgrown and strewn with rubbish .


The people of the town now come here to stroll and enjoy their free time .


The river is blessed with fine scenery , and is good for fishing and birdwatching .


Linpien residents see this as an important asset for attracting tourism .

<gpe>Linpien</gpe> residents see this as an important asset for attracting tourism .


%um , how are you guys ?


How is Chris


and how are you ?


Well pretty well .


Chris is not here at the moment .

<person>Chris</person> is not here at the moment .


She 's been away with her class oh . up around Blandenburg for about two weeks on a , what they call Feldmessen .

She 's been away with her class oh . up around <gpe>Blandenburg</gpe> for <date>about two weeks</date> on a , what they call Feldmessen .


Feldmessen is , %um , surveying .


%hm .


%uh , so she 's been away for two weeks .

%uh , so she 's been away for <date>two weeks</date> .


She 's coming back tonight .

She 's coming back <time>tonight</time> .


ha .


So we 're looking forward to that .


oh , I 'm sorry we 're going to miss her .


yeah ,


oh gosh . I bet you 're getting lonely .


well . Claudia 's been here

well . <person>Claudia</person> 's been here


and we 've been doing okay .


%mm .


And I 'm actually waiting for Claudia to show up because we were supposed to go into town and meet some people in town .

And I 'm actually waiting for <person>Claudia</person> to show up because we were supposed to go into town and meet some people in town .


I 've got a student here who 's checking out rooms and stuff .


She 's coming in the fall ,

She 's coming in the <date>fall</date> ,


but she was in a place called Taiwa .

but she was in a place called <gpe>Taiwa</gpe> .


You know Tufts yeah . sent her to Taiwa

You know <org>Tufts</org> yeah . sent her to <gpe>Taiwa</gpe>


I had friends there . She did a course in Taiwa

I had friends there . She did a course in <gpe>Taiwa</gpe>


and then she came over here , and %um , checked out a room here .


And so it 's


and the end semester is still going .


Of course it ends on the twenty second of July .

Of course it ends on <date>the twenty second of July</date> .


mhm .


So , %uh oh , yeah . things are busy .


yeah ,


gosh .


yeah .


You still got another month .

You still got another <date>month</date> .


And then , are you coming over to the States at all this summer ?

And then , are you coming over to the <gpe>States</gpe> at all <date>this summer</date> ?


No .


No , no . %uh


Not even Chris ?


No , no , no . %uh


Not enough relatives left here anymore ?


Well the relative scene is kind of sad .


You know everybody 's kind of passed away , almost .


I remember when I talked to you in the fall yeah . yeah . that %uh

I remember when I talked to you in <date>the fall</date> yeah . yeah . that %uh


It 's just about


oh did your sister die ?


My sister passed away ,


I do n't know if you spoke to me before that or when it was that was happening . Or


I guess not


When was it ?


It may have been right after .


Well


My father died right after we talked .


oh god .


yeah .


yeah ,


we 're getting old .


No , it 's ,


I do n't know what it is .


It 's just , %uh , people get sick ,


and they get sick pretty young ,


and ,


And you know my sister was n't that old


and she just had bad luck I guess is all you can say .


I 'm going to put you on after fifteen minutes .

I 'm going to put you on after <time>fifteen minutes</time> .


I 've got to


And there was n't anything anybody could do .


So .


And then an aunt of Chris 's Aunt Mamie up in Maine passed away .

And then an aunt of <person>Chris</person> 's Aunt <person>Mamie</person> up in <gpe>Maine</gpe> passed away .


that had n't happ- ,


had that happened already ?


No


No that had not happened , no .


She passed away in about March or

She passed away in <date>about March</date> or


yeah , I think that there was some concern about her when I talked to you in September or October .

yeah , I think that there was some concern about her when I talked to you in <date>September</date> or <date>October</date> .


yeah .


No , she was not doing well .


She had a brain tumor .


And then they operated on


and things were n't going well ,


and .


I actually got to see her I guess a day before she died .


oh .


I mean she did n't know that I was there .


if that was you , yeah . yeah , she was just not in


So it was a blessing , I guess .


But , %um .


Anyway , weird stuff .


And how about you ?


Because , I r-


oh I 'm han-


how are your eyes ?


yeah .


Well , I do n't know .


I have to go next week you know to see again .

I have to go <date>next week</date> you know to see again .


I , %um , not exactly convinced that . It 's okay . You know ,


I 'm not sure .


%hm .


%uh , it 's been pretty good .


It was about eighty percent for a while .

It was about <percent>eighty percent</percent> for a while .


And then %um , I 'm not exactly sure what it is now .


But I 'll know in a couple of days .

But I 'll know in <date>a couple of days</date> .


So are you having blurred vision ?


Or


oh yeah , yeah .


Sure .


The right eye is %uh , not so great .


%um , and it got back to about eighty percent .

%um , and it got back to <percent>about eighty percent</percent> .


You know it was a detached retina .


Right .


And then they operated on it once ,


and they operated on it twice .


And , then things seemed to be doing pretty well ,


and at the moment I 'm %um , not quite so sure .


%hm .


So , who knows . %um .


But you know it 'll never be more than about seventy or eighty percent . Which is fine .

But you know it 'll never be more than <percent>about seventy or eighty percent</percent> . Which is fine .


Eighty percent is fantastic .

<percent>Eighty percent</percent> is fantastic .


%um


So we 'll just see . You know


%hm . we 'll see what happens .


Frustrating .


%uh , yeah .


Annoying .


And that thing that came up recently , , you know I had , oh , a kind of a knee problem a couple of years ago .

And that thing that came up recently , , you know I had , oh , a kind of a knee problem <date>a couple of years ago</date> .


And my right knee ,


and now it 's my left knee .


you know , it 's just a pain in the ass .


And yeah . %um , I went to the doctor


and they do a Punktion . Ich weiss nicht wer .


Anyway they take , %uh fluid out of it .


uh-huh .


And if it gets irritated take some pills and stuff .


And , it 's just a pain in the ass .


So it 's just , l- .


is that like water on the knee ?


Is that what that is ?


%um , well that 's what happens .


It develops because of irritation , because of a %um , inflammation .


%hm .


Is that from the running ?


And how the inflammation d-


yeah ,


maybe .


I mean they do n't know .


mhm .


They do n't


It just came overnight practically .

It just came <time>overnight</time> practically .


Wow .


%um , and %uh , we 'd been up in Berlin

%um , and %uh , we 'd been up in <gpe>Berlin</gpe>


and we had a big trip up there and did a lot of walking , a lot of fast walking and stuff .


But you know , I mean that mhm . should n't be a big deal . %um


Was this last crop of **Tuftees** good ?


So .


Was your last crop of students from Tufts good ?

Was your last crop of students from <org>Tufts</org> good ?


How 's that ?


yeah


well they 're still here .


Right ,


but they 're winding down , so you know them really well by this point .


They 're winding down .


yeah ,


they 're very good .


they learned a lot of German .

they learned a lot of <language>German</language> .


They learned an amazing amount of German .

They learned an amazing amount of <language>German</language> .


Before I forget , I saw George Silinas a couple of days ago .

Before I forget , I saw <person>George Silinas</person> <date>a couple of days ago</date> .


oh . How 's he doing ?


And he 's had


Well he 's working for an American firm over here ,

Well he 's working for an <norp>American</norp> firm over here ,


and he 's doing very very well . %um ,


and his wife just had their fourth child .

and his wife just had their <ordinal>fourth</ordinal> child .


Wow .


A little boy . Benjamin .

A little boy . <person>Benjamin</person> .


yeah .


%um , about , %uh , two weeks ago maybe .

%um , <date>about , %uh , two weeks ago</date> maybe .


%huh .


Tops .


And I got a card from ,


you remember Amy Gleason ?

you remember <person>Amy Gleason</person> ?


Well she just had a baby a couple of


heard that .


Well this is number two .

Well this is number <cardinal>two</cardinal> .


okay .


I just got a card from Ron and Doris ,

I just got a card from <person>Ron</person> and <person>Doris</person> ,


oh .


and they see Amy Gleason on occasion .

and they see <person>Amy Gleason</person> on occasion .


And so I think they told me that .


Have you heard from Ron and Doris ?

Have you heard from <person>Ron</person> and <person>Doris</person> ?


Not in a while , no .


They are now living in Rhode Island .

They are now living in <gpe>Rhode Island</gpe> .


You probably knew that .


Well . yeah .


And she 's teaching at U R I .

And she 's teaching at <org>U R I</org> .


yeah .


And it was a very nice letter , because it sounded like she went through very similar things that I did .


You know , I went from Chicago to U C S G to here .

You know , I went from <gpe>Chicago</gpe> to <org>U C S G</org> to here .


Right .


And it 's just such an intellectual letdown .


And she went from Penn , %um To Columbia . to Columbia to U R I .

And she went from <org>Penn</org> , %um To <org>Columbia</org> . to <org>Columbia</org> to <org>U R I</org> .


Well Columbia 's okay .


And she said the students are just ,


you know , they do n't care ,


and they 're not very good ,


and all of a sudden she 's getting conference papers rejected


and she thinks it 's the affiliation .


Because she does n't think the quality of her work has changed .


Now I have n't submitted a conference paper with the Missouri %um , you know , affiliation yet .

Now I have n't submitted a conference paper with the <org>Missouri</org> %um , you know , affiliation yet .


Because the last one I submitted , %um , was in the fall ,


and I still had my San Diego affiliation .

and I still had my <org>San Diego</org> affiliation .


%um , in fact I 'm still officially on leave .


If anything came up in the next year we could still go back . uh-huh . %uh you know , for Sam .

If anything came up in <date>the next year</date> we could still go back . uh-huh . %uh you know , for <person>Sam</person> .


Wow .


But I think it 's very very very very yeah . unlikely .


yeah .


But at any rate it was nice to hear from her because she said after two years there now , she %um has come to terms with this ,

But at any rate it was nice to hear from her because she said <date>after two years</date> there now , she %um has come to terms with this ,


and yeah . she 's accepted that there 's a lot of good things in Rhode Island .

and yeah . she 's accepted that there 's a lot of good things in <gpe>Rhode Island</gpe> .


And , %um , you know , their life is a lot less complicated ,


and she has more time to be a parent .


Good .


And she 's just not going to have the same kind of career that she had thought about .


Ron is working as a financial consultant for , %um , Meryl Lynch .

<person>Ron</person> is working as a financial consultant for , %um , <org>Meryl Lynch</org> .


And he


oh .


yeah , he had been doing work for some environmental firm , as a consultant .


uh-huh .


And , it did n't work out .


%um He was changing projects every couple of weeks

%um He was changing projects <date>every couple of weeks</date>


and he said he could n't keep on top of it .


He could n't learn the whole new area %mm . that fast each time .


%mm .


%um , and he says he went in and had some tests ,


and he was diagnosed as having attention deficit disorder .


Which you know , given how far he 's gotten , you know , he got his degree at Tufts and all , I found that surprising that for the first time as an adult they 're diagnosing this . %um

Which you know , given how far he 's gotten , you know , he got his degree at <org>Tufts</org> and all , I found that surprising that for the <ordinal>first</ordinal> time as an adult they 're diagnosing this . %um


%mm . I wonder about it .


But anyway .


yeah ,


but that 's what he said .


And %um


yeah .


He %um


Whatever 's helpful .


Right .


So he found this new job as a financial consultant and seems to be happy with that .


Good .


And then we saw Leo and Julie at Christmas time .

And then we saw <person>Leo</person> and <person>Julie</person> at <date>Christmas</date> time .


uh-huh .