Gambian President Yahya Jameh declared his support for admission of the ROC to the United Nations , and as a gesture of goodwill declared that all holders of ROC passports would henceforth automatically be granted 90 - day landing visas upon arrival in Gambia .

<norp>Gambian</norp> President <person>Yahya Jameh</person> declared his support for admission of the <gpe>ROC</gpe> to <org>the United Nations</org> , and as a gesture of goodwill declared that all holders of <gpe>ROC</gpe> passports would henceforth automatically be granted <date>90 - day</date> landing visas upon arrival in <gpe>Gambia</gpe> .


President Chen 's trip yielded many positive results and generated a lot of very favorable media coverage , but it was not problem - free .

President <person>Chen</person> 's trip yielded many positive results and generated a lot of very favorable media coverage , but it was not problem - free .


First , as the president was preparing to depart Taiwan , the Nicaraguan foreign minister publicly called upon the ROC to make good on the previous administration 's promise of US$ 100 million in assistance .

<ordinal>First</ordinal> , as the president was preparing to depart <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> , the <norp>Nicaraguan</norp> foreign minister publicly called upon the <gpe>ROC</gpe> to make good on the previous administration 's promise of <money>US$ 100 million</money> in assistance .


This remark sparked controversy in Taiwan , where some accused the new government of pursuing the same " checkbook diplomacy " practiced by its predecessor .

This remark sparked controversy in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> , where some accused the new government of pursuing the same " checkbook diplomacy " practiced by its predecessor .


Chen Shui - bian responded that while the new administration has not made plans for any new promises of foreign aid , neither will it fail to honor the promises made by its predecessor .

<person>Chen Shui - bian</person> responded that while the new administration has not made plans for any new promises of foreign aid , neither will it fail to honor the promises made by its predecessor .


Foreign Minister Tien Hung - mao stated that the purpose of Chen 's trip was to consolidate Taiwan 's diplomatic ties , and to strengthen friendships by building upon the existing foundation .

Foreign Minister <person>Tien Hung - mao</person> stated that the purpose of <person>Chen</person> 's trip was to consolidate <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's diplomatic ties , and to strengthen friendships by building upon the existing foundation .


Tien stressed that the president would not sign any new foreign aid agreements .

<person>Tien</person> stressed that the president would not sign any new foreign aid agreements .


President Chen received a very warm welcome in Nicaragua , but the local press still mentioned " checkbook diplomacy " in reporting on the visit .

President <person>Chen</person> received a very warm welcome in <gpe>Nicaragua</gpe> , but the local press still mentioned " checkbook diplomacy " in reporting on the visit .


The ROC 's ambassador to Nicaragua , Antonio Tsai , bluntly argued in a briefing with Chen that Taiwan 's foreign assistance to Nicaragua was being misused .

The <gpe>ROC</gpe> 's ambassador to <gpe>Nicaragua</gpe> , <person>Antonio Tsai</person> , bluntly argued in a briefing with <person>Chen</person> that <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's foreign assistance to <gpe>Nicaragua</gpe> was being misused .


According to Tsai , the assistance has been used to build a presidential palace and a new headquarters for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs .

According to <person>Tsai</person> , the assistance has been used to build a presidential palace and a new headquarters for <org>the Ministry of Foreign Affairs</org> .


Opposition politicians charge that the aid has done nothing for everyday people , and Western nations have also been critical .

Opposition politicians charge that the aid has done nothing for everyday people , and <norp>Western</norp> nations have also been critical .


A second problem connected with the trip was the question of who would act in the president 's stead while he was out of the country .

A <ordinal>second</ordinal> problem connected with the trip was the question of who would act in the president 's stead while he was out of the country .


Concern over this issue prompted President Chen to state before his departure that he would remain commander - in - chief of the military forces , and that he would maintain hot lines to every cabinet - level agency .

Concern over this issue prompted President <person>Chen</person> to state before his departure that he would remain commander - in - chief of the military forces , and that he would maintain hot lines to every cabinet - level agency .


The president said that there was no need for an acting president because he had taken painstaking precautions to ensure domestic political stability during his absence .


So is Taiwan 's diplomacy a way of giving back to the international community ?

So is <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's diplomacy a way of giving back to the international community ?


Or is it checkbook diplomacy ?


Ambassador - without - portfolio Lu Yi - cheng wrote an article in which he argued that foreign aid has always been universally recognized as a regular tool of diplomacy as well as a humanitarian necessity , and there is no reason why Taiwan should have to steer clear of it .

Ambassador - without - portfolio <person>Lu Yi - cheng</person> wrote an article in which he argued that foreign aid has always been universally recognized as a regular tool of diplomacy as well as a humanitarian necessity , and there is no reason why <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> should have to steer clear of it .


He pointed out that the world 's developed nations spend an average of 0.24 % of GNP on foreign aid , as opposed to 0.17 % in Taiwan 's case .

He pointed out that the world 's developed nations spend an average of <percent>0.24 %</percent> of GNP on foreign aid , as opposed to <percent>0.17 %</percent> in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's case .


In view of Taiwan 's economic strength , argued Lu , our foreign aid expenditures need not be reduced ; in fact , they should even be raised somewhat .

In view of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's economic strength , argued <person>Lu</person> , our foreign aid expenditures need not be reduced ; in fact , they should even be raised somewhat .


The ROC has been criticized a lot in recent years for pursuing checkbook diplomacy , so there was no surprise when this issue cropped up in connection with the president 's trip .

The <gpe>ROC</gpe> has been criticized a lot in recent years for pursuing checkbook diplomacy , so there was no surprise when this issue cropped up in connection with the president 's trip .


The question of an acting president , however , has never before been a matter of concern .


This situation is to some degree a reflection of the fact that the public still has doubts about the new administration 's ability to govern .


This is an important point that is worth keeping in mind .


Paralympics Offer Stage for Taiwan Performers

<org>Paralympics</org> Offer Stage for <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> Performers


Closing ceremonies for the 2000 Sydney Paralympics were held on October 29 .

Closing ceremonies for the <date>2000</date> <gpe>Sydney</gpe> <event>Paralympics</event> were held on <date>October 29</date> .


Nearly 4000 athletes from more than one hundred and twenty countries participated .

<cardinal>Nearly 4000</cardinal> athletes from <cardinal>more than one hundred and twenty</cardinal> countries participated .


This event , a manifestation of the ideal that " the flame burns in the body , mind , and spirit of every individual , " broke down international barriers and was an admirable example of the global village in operation .


The ROC team took one gold , two silvers , and four bronzes , marking the first time any Taiwan athlete has returned from an Olympic games with a gold .

The <gpe>ROC</gpe> team took <cardinal>one</cardinal> gold , <cardinal>two</cardinal> silvers , and <cardinal>four</cardinal> bronzes , marking the <ordinal>first</ordinal> time any <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> athlete has returned from <event>an Olympic games</event> with a gold .


Also , as part of the events , Taiwan 's Crescent Moon Dance Troupe , made up of handicapped persons , was the only foreign troupe invited by the Australian government to participate in the Paralympic Arts Festival .

Also , as part of the events , <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's <org>Crescent Moon Dance Troupe</org> , made up of handicapped persons , was the only foreign troupe invited by the <norp>Australian</norp> government to participate in <event>the Paralympic Arts Festival</event> .


But even more important than these honors was the spirit of overcoming all obstacles and facing life with courage that shone through during the Paralympics .

But even more important than these honors was the spirit of overcoming all obstacles and facing life with courage that shone through during the <event>Paralympics</event> .


The just - completed Paralympics were enriched by ethnic flavorings .

The just - completed <event>Paralympics</event> were enriched by ethnic flavorings .


The opening ceremony on October 18 was in the form of a welcoming for aboriginal elders .

The opening ceremony on <date>October 18</date> was in the form of a welcoming for aboriginal elders .


Amidst a festive atmosphere , the athletes entered the stadium by categories - one group in wheelchairs , another on crutches , another led by guide dogs .

Amidst a festive atmosphere , the athletes entered the stadium by categories - <cardinal>one</cardinal> group in wheelchairs , another on crutches , another led by guide dogs .


The events at the 12 - day Paralympics were packed with spectators .

The events at the <date>12 - day</date> <event>Paralympics</event> were packed with spectators .


The 1.1 million tickets sold show the extent to which everyone took the games seriously .

The <cardinal>1.1 million</cardinal> tickets sold show the extent to which everyone took the games seriously .


The host government even set up a huge TV screen in Darwin , which is the port of entry for the most visitors to Australia , to broadcast the games live .

The host government even set up a huge TV screen in <gpe>Darwin</gpe> , which is the port of entry for the most visitors to <gpe>Australia</gpe> , to broadcast the games live .


The games were also a platform for the idea of the welfare state caring for disadvantaged groups , and for emphasizing how handicapped persons can break through barriers and limitations .


On October 14 , Taiwan 's Crescent Moon Dance Company created a sensation with their performance " Standing on the Highest Peak , " performed in traditional vests and short skirts as worn by indigenous people in Taiwan .

On <date>October 14</date> , <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's <org>Crescent Moon Dance Company</org> created a sensation with their performance " <work_of_art>Standing on the Highest Peak</work_of_art> , " performed in traditional vests and short skirts as worn by indigenous people in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> .


After the 10 - minute performance ended , the hall was rocked by thunderous applause .

After the <time>10 - minute</time> performance ended , the hall was rocked by thunderous applause .


The standing ovation lasted three minutes , and some people were even moved to tears .

The standing ovation lasted <time>three minutes</time> , and some people were even moved to tears .


The Crescent Moon Dance Company has only been in operation for four years .

<org>The Crescent Moon Dance Company</org> has only been in operation for <date>four years</date> .


Organized by a group of amputee women on a nonprofessional basis , it is the world 's first dance troupe of its kind .

Organized by a group of amputee women on a nonprofessional basis , it is the world 's <ordinal>first</ordinal> dance troupe of its kind .


As its manifesto reads : " One with no voice may nonetheless sing .


One with no wings may nonetheless soar .


One with no limbs may nonetheless dance .


The crescent moon and the full moon are the moon just the same , and equally beautiful . "


The troupe also delighted Sydney citizens with a performance at the Sydney City Hall on October 19 .

The troupe also delighted <gpe>Sydney</gpe> citizens with a performance at <fac>the Sydney City Hall</fac> on <date>October 19</date> .


In the competition , host country Australia took the most medals , including 64 golds

In the competition , host country <gpe>Australia</gpe> took the most medals , including <cardinal>64</cardinal> golds


Among the ROC 's medals , the gold - the first ever for Taiwan - was won by Chiang Chih - chung .

Among the <gpe>ROC</gpe> 's medals , the gold - the <ordinal>first</ordinal> ever for <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> - was won by <person>Chiang Chih - chung</person> .


With a throw of 57.28 meters , Chiang shattered the world record for the javelin in the F12 visually - impaired class .

With a throw of <quantity>57.28 meters</quantity> , <person>Chiang</person> shattered the world record for the javelin in the <cardinal>F12</cardinal> visually - impaired class .


Chiang , a member of the Bunun indigenous people , received a traditional hero 's welcome home from the Bunun of Sanmin Rural Township in Kaohsiung County .

<person>Chiang</person> , a member of the <norp>Bunun</norp> indigenous people , received a traditional hero 's welcome home from the <norp>Bunun</norp> of <gpe>Sanmin Rural Township</gpe> in <gpe>Kaohsiung County</gpe> .


During the festivities , which were both moving and fun , tribal elders sang warrior songs and praised Chiang for his glorious deeds .

During the festivities , which were both moving and fun , tribal elders sang warrior songs and praised <person>Chiang</person> for his glorious deeds .


Meanwhile , the ROC table tennis team twice made it to the finals , but fell just short of the gold each time .

Meanwhile , the <gpe>ROC</gpe> table tennis team twice made it to the finals , but fell just short of the gold each time .


In the wheelchair men 's doubles class 5 event , Chou Chang - sheng and Lin Yen - hung took the silver , while Chou won another silver in the men 's singles .

In the wheelchair men 's doubles class <cardinal>5</cardinal> event , <person>Chou Chang - sheng</person> and <person>Lin Yen - hung</person> took the silver , while <person>Chou</person> won another silver in the men 's singles .


The men 's class 9 team for persons with non-leg - related disabilities and the women 's wheelchair team of combined classes 4 and 5 took bronzes in team events , while Li Ching - chung -LRB- men 's judo class 1 -RRB- and Lu Li - hua -LRB- women 's powerlifting class 1 -RRB- garnered individual bronzes .

The men 's class <cardinal>9</cardinal> team for persons with non-leg - related disabilities and the women 's wheelchair team of combined classes <cardinal>4</cardinal> and <cardinal>5</cardinal> took bronzes in team events , while <person>Li Ching - chung</person> -LRB- men 's judo class <cardinal>1</cardinal> -RRB- and <person>Lu Li - hua</person> -LRB- women 's powerlifting class <cardinal>1</cardinal> -RRB- garnered individual bronzes .


Among Asian countries , South Korea turned in the best performance , taking five gold medals .

Among <norp>Asian</norp> countries , <gpe>South Korea</gpe> turned in the best performance , taking <cardinal>five</cardinal> gold medals .


This was due in part to the fact that the ROK government has provided special coaching in wheelchair table tennis to soldiers injured in service .

This was due in part to the fact that the <gpe>ROK</gpe> government has provided special coaching in wheelchair table tennis to soldiers injured in service .


Indeed , many handicapped competitors from other nations besides the ROK were retired veterans .

Indeed , many handicapped competitors from other nations besides the <gpe>ROK</gpe> were retired veterans .


Their pensions allow them free time to train , and through athletics they bring meaning to their lives and glory to their countries .


Taiwan team members , on the other hand , come from a variety of backgrounds , and train out of personal interest .

<gpe>Taiwan</gpe> team members , on the other hand , come from a variety of backgrounds , and train out of personal interest .


They must give up working if they wish to train full - time .


The South Korean team of veterans , by overcoming their injuries to give a display of athleticism at the international level , have emerged from the shadow of war and transformed their handicaps into glorious results .

The <norp>South Korean</norp> team of veterans , by overcoming their injuries to give a display of athleticism at the international level , have emerged from the shadow of war and transformed their handicaps into glorious results .


This example should provide food for thought to the disabled and sports communities in the future .


Pali : Storied Past , Uncertain Future

<gpe>Pali</gpe> : Storied Past , Uncertain Future


-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-


I wonder if Pali is jealous of Tanshui .

I wonder if <gpe>Pali</gpe> is jealous of <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> .


I ask because fate has treated these two towns , separated only by the mouth of the Tanshui River , very differently .

I ask because fate has treated these <cardinal>two</cardinal> towns , separated only by the mouth of <loc>the Tanshui River</loc> , very differently .


Tanshui is celebrated in poems , songs , paintings , and lovers ' memories of its scenic views .

<gpe>Tanshui</gpe> is celebrated in poems , songs , paintings , and lovers ' memories of its scenic views .


Pali has donuts , mussels , a garbage landfill , and troubles which have yet to be revealed to the outside world .

<gpe>Pali</gpe> has donuts , mussels , a garbage landfill , and troubles which have yet to be revealed to the outside world .


Have you heard this legend ?


Liao Tianding , Taiwan 's Robin Hood , fleeing from imperial soldiers , took refuge in Pali , where he fell in love with a local woman , and , later , at age 27 , was murdered in the Monkey Cave at Laochienkeng -LRB- in Pali Rural Township -RRB- by one of his best friends .

<person>Liao Tianding</person> , <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's <person>Robin Hood</person> , fleeing from imperial soldiers , took refuge in <gpe>Pali</gpe> , where he fell in love with a local woman , and , later , at age <date>27</date> , was murdered in <loc>the Monkey Cave</loc> at <gpe>Laochienkeng</gpe> -LRB- in <gpe>Pali Rural Township</gpe> -RRB- by <cardinal>one</cardinal> of his best friends .


Countless legends grew up around Liao after his death , and the people of Pali began to worship his spirit .

Countless legends grew up around <person>Liao</person> after his death , and the people of <gpe>Pali</gpe> began to worship his spirit .


In 1958 , his small burial plot was converted into a huge temple .

In <date>1958</date> , his small burial plot was converted into a huge temple .


He has followers scattered far and wide , and every year on the special day appointed for making offerings at his temple -LRB- the 26th day of the 10th month of the lunar calendar -RRB- , the grounds are packed with cars and visitors .

He has followers scattered far and wide , and every year on the special day appointed for making offerings at his temple -LRB- <date>the 26th day of the 10th month of the lunar calendar</date> -RRB- , the grounds are packed with cars and visitors .


The Ko brothers , now in their 60s , recall their impressions of a visit to the Liao Tianding gravesite : " It must have been 30 years ago , we used to go there just for the fun of it .

The <person>Ko</person> brothers , now in their <date>60s</date> , recall their impressions of a visit to the <person>Liao Tianding</person> gravesite : " It must have been <date>30 years ago</date> , we used to go there just for the fun of it .


The road in front of the temple was n't so wide then , and what a crowd !


People were so jammed in you could n't move . "


They also recall that the Pali of those days was a place in which most people lived by fishing , farming , or petty trading .

They also recall that the <gpe>Pali</gpe> of those days was a place in which most people lived by fishing , farming , or petty trading .


The elder Ko gives a thumbs - up and declares : " That 's why I always say that a can - do guy like Liao Tianding must be looking after us , so that we have developed and can even earn money from the tourists . "

The elder <person>Ko</person> gives a thumbs - up and declares : " That 's why I always say that a can - do guy like <person>Liao Tianding</person> must be looking after us , so that we have developed and can even earn money from the tourists . "


Yet , he may not know about Pali 's real heyday , long in the past .

Yet , he may not know about <gpe>Pali</gpe> 's real heyday , long in the past .


The days of the sailing ships


Pali was originally called Palifen , a transliteration of the place name used by the Ketagalan indigenous people .

<gpe>Pali</gpe> was originally called <gpe>Palifen</gpe> , a transliteration of the place name used by the <norp>Ketagalan</norp> indigenous people .


Located on the northwest corner of Taiwan , Pali faces the Taiwan Strait to the northwest , rests against Mt. Kuanyin to the southeast , and looks across the river toward Tanshui to the northeast .

Located on the northwest corner of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> , <gpe>Pali</gpe> faces <loc>the Taiwan Strait</loc> to the northwest , rests against <loc>Mt. Kuanyin</loc> to the southeast , and looks across the river toward <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> to the northeast .


Though it does n't have much of a hinterland , its geographic location has proved historically important , as one can see from the prehistoric cultures unearthed at the Ta - pen - keng and Shih - san - hang archeological sites .

Though it does n't have much of a hinterland , its geographic location has proved historically important , as one can see from the prehistoric cultures unearthed at the <loc>Ta - pen - keng</loc> and <loc>Shih - san - hang</loc> archeological sites .


Later , when Han Chinese began trickling across to Taiwan , they mainly settled along rivers .

Later , when <norp>Han Chinese</norp> began trickling across to <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> , they mainly settled along rivers .


Because Pali is relatively close to the mainland and sits at the mouth of a river , despite the fact that it does not have a natural harbor , in 1757 the Qing court designated it to be one of Taiwan 's small number of official ports for maritime transport with the mainland .

Because <gpe>Pali</gpe> is relatively close to the mainland and sits at the mouth of a river , despite the fact that it does not have a natural harbor , in <date>1757</date> the <norp>Qing</norp> court designated it to be one of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's small number of official ports for maritime transport with the mainland .


Thus began an era in which great ships sailed in and out of Pali .

Thus began an era in which great ships sailed in and out of <gpe>Pali</gpe> .


However , as a result of silting and a destructive typhoon that struck in 1796 , Pali began to give way in importance to Tanshui , located just across the river .

However , as a result of silting and a destructive typhoon that struck in <date>1796</date> , <gpe>Pali</gpe> began to give way in importance to <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> , located just across the river .


Once mainly dependent on fishing , Pali increasingly came to rely on farming .

Once mainly dependent on fishing , <gpe>Pali</gpe> increasingly came to rely on farming .


But the hilly terrain and strong winds meant that there was little good land .


While the hardy people of Pali barely kept their stomachs filled , their children and grandchildren left in search of a better life .

While the hardy people of <gpe>Pali</gpe> barely kept their stomachs filled , their children and grandchildren left in search of a better life .


Neither the Japanese occupation -LRB- which began in 1895 -RRB- nor the return to Chinese rule -LRB- in 1945 -RRB- brought much joy or change to this rural area .

Neither the <norp>Japanese</norp> occupation -LRB- which began in <date>1895</date> -RRB- nor the return to <norp>Chinese</norp> rule -LRB- in <date>1945</date> -RRB- brought much joy or change to this rural area .


But in the 1970s , urban planning came to Pali .

But in <date>the 1970s</date> , urban planning came to <gpe>Pali</gpe> .


It proved to be the prelude to a symphony -LRB- or perhaps cacophony -RRB- of transformation .


Changing the rhythm of Pali life

Changing the rhythm of <gpe>Pali</gpe> life


During the height of real estate speculation and soaring land prices in Taipei , builders put up self - described " villas " and " mansions " -LRB- apartment blocks , in fact -RRB- one after another in Pali .

During the height of real estate speculation and soaring land prices in <gpe>Taipei</gpe> , builders put up self - described " villas " and " mansions " -LRB- apartment blocks , in fact -RRB- one after another in <gpe>Pali</gpe> .


Also , to try to reduce the outflow of population from Pali and to get the stagnant local economy moving , the government decided to link this formerly isolated village to the outside world .

Also , to try to reduce the outflow of population from <gpe>Pali</gpe> and to get the stagnant local economy moving , the government decided to link this formerly isolated village to the outside world .


What had been Chungshan Road was turned into Provincial Highway #15 , and the opening of the Kuantu Bridge to traffic linked Pali directly to the busy Taipei districts of Shilin and Peitou .

What had been <fac>Chungshan Road</fac> was turned into <fac>Provincial Highway #15</fac> , and the opening of <fac>the Kuantu Bridge</fac> to traffic linked <gpe>Pali</gpe> directly to the busy <gpe>Taipei</gpe> districts of <gpe>Shilin</gpe> and <gpe>Peitou</gpe> .


Gifted with a lovely setting between the mountains and the sea , Pali began to dream of a tourism boom .

Gifted with a lovely setting between the mountains and the sea , <gpe>Pali</gpe> began to dream of a tourism boom .


But fortune had other things in store .


In order to pave the way for the construction of a water treatment facility on the northeast edge of Pali , the plan to develop tourism in Pali was scrapped overnight .

In order to pave the way for the construction of a water treatment facility on the northeast edge of <gpe>Pali</gpe> , the plan to develop tourism in <gpe>Pali</gpe> was scrapped overnight .


The government , applying urban planning principles , zoned the area for residential and industrial use , in order to create a construction site for the facility .


Then in 1987 came the program to bring gravel from eastern to western Taiwan for construction purposes , and a harbor was built on the Pali coast for the convenience of gravel transporters .

Then in <date>1987</date> came the program to bring gravel from eastern to western <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> for construction purposes , and a harbor was built on the <gpe>Pali</gpe> coast for the convenience of gravel transporters .


In accordance with the urban plan , new streets were cut this way and that through Pali 's land , and high - rise buildings sprang up along the sides of these roadways .

In accordance with the urban plan , new streets were cut this way and that through <gpe>Pali</gpe> 's land , and high - rise buildings sprang up along the sides of these roadways .


The sounds of backhoes at work resounded even from the black sand beaches .


In 1997 , the Hsiachuotzu garbage landfill formally opened , and it became common to see fleets of garbage trucks winding through the streets of Pali .

In <date>1997</date> , the <gpe>Hsiachuotzu</gpe> garbage landfill formally opened , and it became common to see fleets of garbage trucks winding through the streets of <gpe>Pali</gpe> .


This rural township , which was made responsible for storing the garbage from several communities in Taipei County , seemed resigned to the fate -LRB- suffered by many outlying areas -RRB- of having to choke on the garbage spit up by others .

This rural township , which was made responsible for storing the garbage from several communities in <gpe>Taipei County</gpe> , seemed resigned to the fate -LRB- suffered by many outlying areas -RRB- of having to choke on the garbage spit up by others .


It is only recently that the residents of Hsiachuotsu , unable to stand the smell , have begun to protest .

It is only recently that the residents of <gpe>Hsiachuotsu</gpe> , unable to stand the smell , have begun to protest .


Lin Yi - hung , born and raised in Pali , stands on the roof of his house and looks across to the beach where he used to run and play as a child .

<person>Lin Yi - hung</person> , born and raised in <gpe>Pali</gpe> , stands on the roof of his house and looks across to the beach where he used to run and play as a child .


He can not help but sigh , as he looks at the ranks of new buildings and thinks of the dramatic changes that have come to this area : " These construction projects have destroyed the relationship we people of Pali used to have with the sea . "

He can not help but sigh , as he looks at the ranks of new buildings and thinks of the dramatic changes that have come to this area : " These construction projects have destroyed the relationship we people of <gpe>Pali</gpe> used to have with the sea . "


It 's certainly true that a lot of people here thought they would get rich from the rezoning .


But just because land increases in value does n't mean someone will buy it , and just because apartment complexes are built does n't mean there are people who want to live there .


Worst of all , interpersonal relationships have been poisoned in the struggle over divvying up the profits , because no one really knows how much money is involved .


Lin concludes : " I am not by any means opposed to development .

<person>Lin</person> concludes : " I am not by any means opposed to development .


But development is not necessarily the same as progress .


Can the people of Pali really survive change of this magnitude ? "

Can the people of <gpe>Pali</gpe> really survive change of this magnitude ? "


All part of the plan ?


One after another , government development plans have raised the expectations of Pali residents .

<cardinal>One</cardinal> after another , government development plans have raised the expectations of <gpe>Pali</gpe> residents .


But so far the only things Pali folk have been able to enjoy have been flying dust from construction sites , roads filled with giant trucks , and new neighbors of an " otherworldly " kind .

But so far the only things <gpe>Pali</gpe> folk have been able to enjoy have been flying dust from construction sites , roads filled with giant trucks , and new neighbors of an " otherworldly " kind .


The new roads have certainly brought in a group of immigrants anxious to escape from Taipei City and return to nature .

The new roads have certainly brought in a group of immigrants anxious to escape from <gpe>Taipei City</gpe> and return to nature .


But at the same time , verdant Mt. Kuanyin - named for its uncanny resemblance to the deity Kuanyin - is covered with columbariums and cemeteries .

But at the same time , verdant <loc>Mt. Kuanyin</loc> - named for its uncanny resemblance to the deity Kuanyin - is covered with columbariums and cemeteries .


Even Kuanyin , worshipped for her limitless compassion and mercy , must be creasing her brow at this rampant overuse of the mountain .


Chen Chien - kuo , a secretary in the Pali Rural Township government , says facetiously : " What can we do ? We have the mountains behind us and the sea in front .

<person>Chen Chien - kuo</person> , a secretary in the <gpe>Pali Rural Township</gpe> government , says facetiously : " What can we do ? We have the mountains behind us and the sea in front .


People say the fengshui is good here , so they come . "


He adds , in a far less amused tone , that the government has been talking about making Mt. Kuanyin a national park for a long time , and has banned construction or use of the mountain .

He adds , in a far less amused tone , that the government has been talking about making <loc>Mt. Kuanyin</loc> a national park for a long time , and has banned construction or use of the mountain .


But after 30 years , the park plan is still a non-starter , and meanwhile many cemeteries and colum - bariums have " snuck in . "

But after <date>30 years</date> , the park plan is still a non-starter , and meanwhile many cemeteries and colum - bariums have " snuck in . "


" Nobody seems to care about our Pali , and we are very remote , so people just dump what they do n't want out here .

" Nobody seems to care about our <gpe>Pali</gpe> , and we are very remote , so people just dump what they do n't want out here .


We say that this is why we not only have a water pollution treatment plant and a garbage landfill , but also five nursing homes and hospices for the terminally ill . "


Take the Taipei Happy Mountain Colony for example .

Take <org>the Taipei Happy Mountain Colony</org> for example .


This venerable institution was first used to house leprosy victims , who met only fear and loathing elsewhere .


In 1932 , a British missionary founded this home - over the strong opposition of the local gentry - to offer leprosy victims a place to live in dignity and find warmth away from the cold outside world .

In <date>1932</date> , a <norp>British</norp> missionary founded this home - over the strong opposition of the local gentry - to offer leprosy victims a place to live in dignity and find warmth away from the cold outside world .


Today , Happy Mountain is a home for physically and mentally challenged young people , and the simple old structure , surrounded by greenery , rings with the laughter of children .

<date>Today</date> , <org>Happy Mountain</org> is a home for physically and mentally challenged young people , and the simple old structure , surrounded by greenery , rings with the laughter of children .


Li Li - chuan , who works at Happy Mountain , was born and raised right here in Pali .

<person>Li Li - chuan</person> , who works at <org>Happy Mountain</org> , was born and raised right here in <gpe>Pali</gpe> .


Her family home is not far from the chil - dren 's home .


" When I was small I used to come here to play .


All the adults called the kids ' empty - headed . '


I was small , and did n't know any better , so I just called them that too . "


Stroking the head of a sleeping child with hydrocephalus , she says : " He is so cute when he smiles ! "


Located on the margins of the island of Taiwan , the people of Pali take it in stride that they must live alongside the marginal people and objects cast off by society - waste water , trash , the deceased , and victims of diseases that society would prefer not to see at all .

Located on the margins of the island of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> , the people of <gpe>Pali</gpe> take it in stride that they must live alongside the marginal people and objects cast off by society - waste water , trash , the deceased , and victims of diseases that society would prefer not to see at all .


And there is no sign this situation will end : Reports now say that all the waste and earth being moved to Linkou for a land reclamation project there will be trucked along Provincial Highway #15 - right through the heart of Pali .

And there is no sign this situation will end : Reports now say that all the waste and earth being moved to <gpe>Linkou</gpe> for a land reclamation project there will be trucked along <fac>Provincial Highway #15</fac> - right through the heart of <gpe>Pali</gpe> .


Serving Greater Taipei


" I believe , " says Lin Yi - hung , " that the people of Pali understand that this is just the way society works -

" I believe , " says <person>Lin Yi - hung</person> , " that the people of <gpe>Pali</gpe> understand that this is just the way society works -


the interests of the few are sacrificed so that the majority can be better off . "


Thus , in urban plans Pali is always assigned the role of serving Taipei .

Thus , in urban plans <gpe>Pali</gpe> is always assigned the role of serving <gpe>Taipei</gpe> .


" But the government should think carefully about whether they are using the right methods or not .


There are no real comprehensive policies , just short - term trade - offs of interests .


There are a lot of great - sounding plans , but what do the people of Pali get out of them ?

There are a lot of great - sounding plans , but what do the people of <gpe>Pali</gpe> get out of them ?


It 's like the port they built for transporting gravel .


There are a lot of bright promises for the future , raising people 's hopes , but who knows what the final result will really be ? "


Chang Tsu - chou , now in his 70s , has been a secretary in the rural township government for more than 30 years , and loves Pali more than words can say .

<person>Chang Tsu - chou</person> , now in his <date>70s</date> , has been a secretary in the rural township government for <date>more than 30 years</date> , and loves <gpe>Pali</gpe> more than words can say .


" I was first sent here to work in the Kuomintang Public Service Department .

" I was first sent here to work in <org>the Kuomintang Public Service Department</org> .


When I came here , they were only selling about 30 newspapers in all of Pali .

When I came here , they were only selling <cardinal>about 30</cardinal> newspapers in all of <gpe>Pali</gpe> .


But I went all out to promote newspaper sales , and by the time I left the department , they were selling more than 1000 ! "

But I went all out to promote newspaper sales , and by the time I left the department , they were selling <cardinal>more than 1000</cardinal> ! "


He has great confidence in Pali 's future , and believes the new harbor will bring prosperity .

He has great confidence in <gpe>Pali</gpe> 's future , and believes the new harbor will bring prosperity .


" The government says that the first phase is for transporting gravel , but when the third phase is completed a lot of goods will be shipped in and out of here .

" The government says that the <ordinal>first</ordinal> phase is for transporting gravel , but when the <ordinal>third</ordinal> phase is completed a lot of goods will be shipped in and out of here .


At that time , Pali should really be hopping ! "

At that time , <gpe>Pali</gpe> should really be hopping ! "


Pali , known as " the home of green bamboo shoots " for its famous local vegetable , is - like many remote areas all over Taiwan - accepting the pain and enjoying the pleasures of life in the space between hopeful expectations and disappointing letdowns .

<gpe>Pali</gpe> , known as " the home of green bamboo shoots " for its famous local vegetable , is - like many remote areas all over <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> - accepting the pain and enjoying the pleasures of life in the space between hopeful expectations and disappointing letdowns .


And , being marginal , it also must live with burdens that the citizens themselves do not want .


Uncertain whether to makes fists or open their arms , the people of Pali watch , perplexed , as the great wheel of our times leaves its tracks through their rural township .

Uncertain whether to makes fists or open their arms , the people of <gpe>Pali</gpe> watch , perplexed , as the great wheel of our times leaves its tracks through their rural township .


Yet these are hardy people , who will always bounce back with a smile to face the unknown future , be it filled with troubles or glory .


Pali Facts and Figures


Pali Rural Township -LRB- also spelled Bali -RRB- is located at the northwestern edge of the Taipei Basin , on the western bank of the mouth of the Tanshui River .

<gpe>Pali Rural Township</gpe> -LRB- also spelled <gpe>Bali</gpe> -RRB- is located at the northwestern edge of <loc>the Taipei Basin</loc> , on the western bank of the mouth of <gpe>the Tanshui River</gpe> .


It has an area of 39.5 square kilometers and a population of just over 28,000 .

It has an area of <quantity>39.5 square kilometers</quantity> and a population of <cardinal>just over 28,000</cardinal> .


It is one of the 29 townships under the jurisdiction of Taipei County .

It is <cardinal>one</cardinal> of the <cardinal>29</cardinal> townships under the jurisdiction of <gpe>Taipei County</gpe> .


Pali produces wax apples , green bamboo shoots , and wendan pomelo which are famous far and wide for their delicate texture and sweetness .

<gpe>Pali</gpe> produces wax apples , green bamboo shoots , and wendan pomelo which are famous far and wide for their delicate texture and sweetness .


In addition , Chinese raspberries and strawberry pears are now being cultivated , with promising results so far .

In addition , <norp>Chinese</norp> raspberries and strawberry pears are now being cultivated , with promising results so far .


The main attractions include the so - called " eight views of Pali , " the ferry boat scenic tour , hiking on Mt. Kuanyin , Formosa Wonderworld theme park , and the Liao Tianding Temple .

The main attractions include the so - called " <cardinal>eight</cardinal> views of <gpe>Pali</gpe> , " the ferry boat scenic tour , hiking on <loc>Mt. Kuanyin</loc> , <fac>Formosa Wonderworld</fac> theme park , and <fac>the Liao Tianding Temple</fac> .


Pali is served by inter-city and local buses , or you can take a shuttle bus from the Kuantu Station of the Taipei rapid transit system .

<gpe>Pali</gpe> is served by inter-city and local buses , or you can take a shuttle bus from <fac>the Kuantu Station</fac> of the <gpe>Taipei</gpe> rapid transit system .


For more detailed information , visit http://www.bali.tpc.gov.tw/ .


-LRB- The above information is provided courtesy of Pali Rural Township Government . -RRB-

-LRB- The above information is provided courtesy of <org>Pali Rural Township Government</org> . -RRB-


p. 098


The red Kuantu Bridge connects Pali , a town which nestles at the foot of Mt. Kuanyin , with the outside world , and also adds a splash of color to the lovely river landscape .

The red <fac>Kuantu Bridge</fac> connects <gpe>Pali</gpe> , a town which nestles at the foot of <loc>Mt. Kuanyin</loc> , with the outside world , and also adds a splash of color to the lovely river landscape .


p. 099


On the ferry from Tanshui to Pali , decades pass in the blink of an eye .

On the ferry from <gpe>Tanshui</gpe> to <gpe>Pali</gpe> , decades pass in the blink of an eye .


These mobile bridges evoke the golden age of ocean trade here , and also form a sentimental attachment between the two sides .

These mobile bridges evoke the golden age of ocean trade here , and also form a sentimental attachment between the <cardinal>two</cardinal> sides .


p. 100


The Shih - san - hang archeological site , located in Tingchuo Village in Pali Rural Township , revealed the secrets of how the plains aborigines of Taiwan lived 2000 years ago .

The <loc>Shih - san - hang</loc> archeological site , located in <gpe>Tingchuo Village</gpe> in <gpe>Pali Rural Township</gpe> , revealed the secrets of how the plains aborigines of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> lived <date>2000 years ago</date> .


Are the souls of these first residents still looking after " Palifen " ?

Are the souls of these <ordinal>first</ordinal> residents still looking after " <gpe>Palifen</gpe> " ?


p. 101


Giant high - rises look on as fishing boats bob in the sea off of the Pali shore .

Giant high - rises look on as fishing boats bob in the sea off of the <gpe>Pali</gpe> shore .


What does this tell us about the transformation of Taiwan 's townships ?

What does this tell us about the transformation of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's townships ?


Mourn for the End of an Era : Three Taiwanese Cultural Giants

Mourn for the End of an Era : <cardinal>Three</cardinal> <norp>Taiwanese</norp> Cultural Giants


-LRB- Laura Li / tr. by Jonathan Barnard -RRB-

-LRB- <person>Laura Li</person> / tr. by <person>Jonathan Barnard</person> -RRB-


The year 2001 has started with a series of saddening losses in the cultural realm .

<date>The year 2001</date> has started with a series of saddening losses in the cultural realm .


On the first of the year , Hsu Tsang-houei , the dean of Taiwanese music , passed away after a fall left him in a coma .

On <date>the first of the year</date> , <person>Hsu Tsang-houei</person> , the dean of <norp>Taiwanese</norp> music , passed away after a fall left him in a coma .


Then came the news that Chang Kwang-chih , the respected archeologist and former vice-president of the Academia Sinica , had died of illness in the United States .

Then came the news that <person>Chang Kwang-chih</person> , the respected archeologist and former vice-president of <org>the Academia Sinica</org> , had died of illness in <gpe>the United States</gpe> .


Finally , on the afternoon of January 9 , the historian Tai Kuo-hui died of septicemia .

Finally , on the afternoon of <date>January 9</date> , the historian <person>Tai Kuo-hui</person> died of septicemia .


These three masters in their fields were all in their early seventies .

These <cardinal>three</cardinal> masters in their fields were all in their <date>early seventies</date> .


Since they had just reached a time in their lives and careers where they could slow down and enjoy the fruits of their past labors , one feels inclined to complain to heaven or sigh about the brevity of life .


Each of these men was at the forefront of his field in Taiwan , and their deaths represent the end of an era .

Each of these men was at the forefront of his field in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> , and their deaths represent the end of an era .


Where should Chinese music go ?

Where should <norp>Chinese</norp> music go ?


Hsu Tsang-houei had a huge impact on Taiwanese music over the last half century .

<person>Hsu Tsang-houei</person> had a huge impact on <norp>Taiwanese</norp> music over <date>the last half century</date> .


Born in Homei , Changhua in 1928 , Hsu studied the violin in Japan as a youth .

Born in <gpe>Homei , Changhua</gpe> in <date>1928</date> , <person>Hsu</person> studied the violin in <gpe>Japan</gpe> as a youth .


Later , he studied in France for five years , where he became well versed in the various schools of modern Western music .

Later , he studied in <gpe>France</gpe> for <date>five years</date> , where he became well versed in the various schools of modern <norp>Western</norp> music .


In 1959 he returned to introduce modern Western classical music to his homeland .

In <date>1959</date> he returned to introduce modern <norp>Western</norp> classical music to his homeland .


He also published a seminal essay entitled , " Where Should Chinese Music Go ? " in which he passionately urged his fellow musicians to create contemporary Chinese music .

He also published a seminal essay entitled , <work_of_art>" Where Should Chinese Music Go ? "</work_of_art> in which he passionately urged his fellow musicians to create contemporary <norp>Chinese</norp> music .


Many young composers took up his call and wrote difficult and dissonant twelve - tone works that would become the creative mainstream in music departments .

Many young composers took up his call and wrote difficult and dissonant <cardinal>twelve</cardinal> - tone works that would become the creative mainstream in music departments .


Unfortunately , schools of modern classical music struggled to hold their audiences even in the West , and audiences found it harder and harder to connect with the Taiwanese modern music of which Hsu was the leading figure .

Unfortunately , schools of modern classical music struggled to hold their audiences even in the <loc>West</loc> , and audiences found it harder and harder to connect with the <norp>Taiwanese</norp> modern music of which <person>Hsu</person> was the leading figure .


Opinion has remained polarized about the worth of this music .


Hsu was also at the forefront of efforts to record traditional Taiwanese folk music .

<person>Hsu</person> was also at the forefront of efforts to record traditional <norp>Taiwanese</norp> folk music .


In the mid-1960s , Hsu , Shih Wei-liang , Lu Ping-chuan and others established various organizations , including the Folk Music Research Workshop .

In <date>the mid-1960s</date> , <person>Hsu</person> , <person>Shih Wei-liang</person> , <person>Lu Ping-chuan</person> and others established various organizations , including <org>the Folk Music Research Workshop</org> .


Fighting the reigning bias in favor of musical traditions from the mainland , Hsu led the way in collecting and recording Taiwanese Nanguan music and Hakka eight - tone , as well as the music of the aboriginal tribes .

Fighting the reigning bias in favor of musical traditions from the mainland , <person>Hsu</person> led the way in collecting and recording <norp>Taiwanese</norp> Nanguan music and <norp>Hakka</norp> <cardinal>eight</cardinal> - tone , as well as the music of the aboriginal tribes .


These collections helped to delineate the history of Taiwanese music .

These collections helped to delineate the history of <norp>Taiwanese</norp> music .


In the past decade , with the rise of the " Taiwan first " movement in politics , Hsu 's folk music collections have garnered more and more attention , and CDs of them have been released one after another .

In <date>the past decade</date> , with the rise of the " <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> <ordinal>first</ordinal> " movement in politics , <person>Hsu</person> 's folk music collections have garnered more and more attention , and CDs of them have been released one after another .


In the last few years , Hsu was appointed both as national policy advisor to the president and as the chairman of the National Culture and Arts Foundation .

In <date>the last few years</date> , <person>Hsu</person> was appointed both as national policy advisor to the president and as the chairman of <org>the National Culture and Arts Foundation</org> .


Cross-strait archeological star


Just as Hsu 's work spanned from the classical to the contemporary , from the West to his native soil , the archaeologist Chang Kwang-chih 's broad vision allowed him to build the foundations for the field of archeology both for Taiwan and China as a whole .

Just as <person>Hsu</person> 's work spanned from the classical to the contemporary , from the <loc>West</loc> to his native soil , the archaeologist <person>Chang Kwang-chih</person> 's broad vision allowed him to build the foundations for the field of archeology both for <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> and <gpe>China</gpe> as a whole .


In his autobiography , Chang describes himself as a " Yam Man , " which is an allusion to Taiwan being shaped like a yam .

In his autobiography , <person>Chang</person> describes himself as a " Yam Man , " which is an allusion to <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> being shaped like a yam .


Chang explains that he was actually born in Beijing , though his father 's family was indeed from Taiwan .

<person>Chang</person> explains that he was actually born in <gpe>Beijing</gpe> , though his father 's family was indeed from <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> .


After Taiwan was returned to Chinese rule , Chang returned to the land of his roots .

After <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> was returned to <norp>Chinese</norp> rule , <person>Chang</person> returned to the land of his roots .


Studying at Chienkuo High in 1949 , he was arrested on false charges of having participated in the April 6 Incident .

Studying at <org>Chienkuo High</org> in <date>1949</date> , he was arrested on false charges of having participated in <event>the April 6 Incident</event> .


He spent nearly a year in jail before taking the high school equivalency exam and going on to study archeology at NTU .

He spent nearly a <date>year</date> in jail before taking the high school equivalency exam and going on to study archeology at <org>NTU</org> .


After earning his doctorate at Harvard , he took an academic post in America but always maintained his focus on Chinese archeology .

After earning his doctorate at <org>Harvard</org> , he took an academic post in <gpe>America</gpe> but always maintained his focus on <norp>Chinese</norp> archeology .


Largely due to his unflagging efforts , Chinese archeology attained a sturdy theoretical and practical foundation that enabled it to emerge as a world-class discipline .

Largely due to his unflagging efforts , <norp>Chinese</norp> archeology attained a sturdy theoretical and practical foundation that enabled it to emerge as a world-class discipline .


His research showed that the rise of Chinese civilization did not occur exclusively in the area around the Yellow River Valley .

His research showed that the rise of <norp>Chinese</norp> civilization did not occur exclusively in the area around <loc>the Yellow River Valley</loc> .


Rather it emerged from several languages , ethnic groups and cultures spread over a vast landscape .


This overturned the " single origin theory " and debunked Western assumptions about " oriental despotism . "

This overturned the " single origin theory " and debunked <norp>Western</norp> assumptions about " oriental despotism . "


Though a world-class scholar , Chang never forgot the land of his origins .

Though a world-class scholar , <person>Chang</person> never forgot the land of his origins .


In the 1960s , he returned to Taiwan and embarked on research at the Fengpitou site in Kaohsiung , completing the most extensive archeological study made in Taiwan in over a century .

In <date>the 1960s</date> , he returned to <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> and embarked on research at the <loc>Fengpitou</loc> site in <gpe>Kaohsiung</gpe> , completing the most extensive archeological study made in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> in over a <date>century</date> .


Then he went on to perform research in an area that spanned the Choshui and Tatu river valleys .

Then he went on to perform research in an area that spanned the <loc>Choshui</loc> and <loc>Tatu</loc> river valleys .


It was a huge undertaking that involved both archeology and geology .


Many of the leading lights among the younger generation of Taiwan anthropologists cut their research teeth on this project .

Many of the leading lights among the younger generation of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> anthropologists cut their research teeth on this project .


Unfortunately , Chang Kwang-chih became afflicted with Parkinson 's disease more than a decade ago .

Unfortunately , <person>Chang Kwang-chih</person> became afflicted with <person>Parkinson</person> 's disease <date>more than a decade ago</date> .


His limbs started to shake , and it became impossible for him to perform fieldwork .


Chang deeply regretted that he was unable to examine the Shangqiu site in eastern Henan .

<person>Chang</person> deeply regretted that he was unable to examine the <loc>Shangqiu</loc> site in eastern <gpe>Henan</gpe> .


Though sick , Chang returned home at the end of his life to serve as vice president of the Academia Sinica , where he worked hard to establish Taiwan as the preeminent world center for sinology .

Though sick , <person>Chang</person> returned home at the end of his life to serve as vice president of <org>the Academia Sinica</org> , where he worked hard to establish <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> as the preeminent world center for sinology .


Taiwanese heart , Chinese sentiments

<norp>Taiwanese</norp> heart , <norp>Chinese</norp> sentiments


Finally there was the death of the historian Tai Kuo-hui , who served on the National Security Council and was admired as much for his lofty character as for his pioneering work in Taiwanese history .

Finally there was the death of the historian <person>Tai Kuo-hui</person> , who served on <org>the National Security Council</org> and was admired as much for his lofty character as for his pioneering work in <norp>Taiwanese</norp> history .


His differences of opinion with Lee Teng-hui had thrust him into the spotlight in recent years .

His differences of opinion with <person>Lee Teng-hui</person> had thrust him into the spotlight in <date>recent years</date> .


Born in 1931 in Taoyuan , Tai was educated under Japanese colonial rule , and he earned a doctorate in agriculture at Tokyo .

Born in <date>1931</date> in <gpe>Taoyuan</gpe> , <person>Tai</person> was educated under <norp>Japanese</norp> colonial rule , and he earned a doctorate in agriculture at <gpe>Tokyo</gpe> .


Back in the 1960s , when Taiwanese history was still a taboo subject in Taiwan , Tai organized a research society in Japan devoted to the study of Taiwanese history and other related Asian topics .

Back in <date>the 1960s</date> , when <norp>Taiwanese</norp> history was still a taboo subject in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> , <person>Tai</person> organized a research society in <gpe>Japan</gpe> devoted to the study of <norp>Taiwanese</norp> history and other related <norp>Asian</norp> topics .


For this work , he was blacklisted in Taiwan .

For this work , he was blacklisted in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> .


Later , Tai repeatedly declined invitations from Chiang Ching-kuo to return .

Later , <person>Tai</person> repeatedly declined invitations from <person>Chiang Ching-kuo</person> to return .


It was n't until Lee Teng-hui was president that he finally came home .

It was n't until <person>Lee Teng-hui</person> was president that he finally came home .


But when he did , his different perspective about Taiwan history brought Tai Kuo-hui farther and farther from the mainstream of the ruling party .

But when he did , his different perspective about <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> history brought <person>Tai Kuo-hui</person> farther and farther from the mainstream of the ruling party .


Although Tai did n't flinch from condemning the authoritarianism of Chiang Kai-shek and his son Chiang Ching-kuo , he also had harsh things to say about Japanese colonial rule - unlike Lee Teng-hui , who had fond memories of the colonial era .

Although <person>Tai</person> did n't flinch from condemning the authoritarianism of <person>Chiang Kai-shek</person> and his son <person>Chiang Ching-kuo</person> , he also had harsh things to say about <norp>Japanese</norp> colonial rule - unlike <person>Lee Teng-hui</person> , who had fond memories of the colonial era .


Tai , who described himself as an " independent-minded Chinese born in Taiwan , " never lost his affection for China proper , and these sentiments set him apart from most historians of Taiwan .

<person>Tai</person> , who described himself as an " independent-minded <norp>Chinese</norp> born in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> , " never lost his affection for <gpe>China</gpe> proper , and these sentiments set him apart from most historians of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> .


With regard to cross-strait relations , Tai made his famous " testicles analogy . "

With regard to cross-strait relations , <person>Tai</person> made his famous " testicles analogy . "


Taiwan is a part of China , he stated , just as testicles are a part of a man 's body .

<person>Taiwan</person> is a part of <gpe>China</gpe> , he stated , just as testicles are a part of a man 's body .


Though inextricably linked to the body , the testicles have their own special functions .


He based his analogy on what he deemed was best for all of the Chinese people .

He based his analogy on what he deemed was best for all of the <norp>Chinese</norp> people .


His theory was a far cry from Lee Teng-hui 's belief that Taiwan should establish clear boundaries between itself and the mainland .

His theory was a far cry from <person>Lee Teng-hui 's</person> belief that <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> should establish clear boundaries between itself and the mainland .


But Tai Kuo-hui never shied from controversy .

But <person>Tai Kuo-hui</person> never shied from controversy .


Otherwise , he would not have chosen to study Taiwanese history to begin with .

Otherwise , he would not have chosen to study <norp>Taiwanese</norp> history to begin with .


Throughout his life , he maintained his tough Hakka spirit and academic independence , holding fast to his opinions and never compromising .

Throughout his life , he maintained his tough <norp>Hakka</norp> spirit and academic independence , holding fast to his opinions and never compromising .


He was greatly admired for his intellectual integrity .


These great masters ' deaths have come at a time when the field of education has been in the spotlight for other reasons .


The Ministry of Education has just formally apologized - 50 years after the fact - for the April 6 Incident , and a university president has been found guilty of plagiarizing a research paper .

<org>The Ministry of Education</org> has just formally apologized - <date>50 years</date> after the fact - for <event>the April 6 Incident</event> , and a university president has been found guilty of plagiarizing a research paper .


The former shows that intellectuals in Taiwan need no longer fear torture and imprisonment for their beliefs .

The former shows that intellectuals in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> need no longer fear torture and imprisonment for their beliefs .


The latter suggests that some people have allowed blind ambition to sully the pure ideal of scholarship .


Apart from causing us to mourn , the deaths of these great men have left us with a lot to think about .


p. 62


Hsu Tsang-houei introduced modern Western classical music to Taiwan before making pioneering collections of traditional Taiwanese music .

<person>Hsu Tsang-houei</person> introduced modern <norp>Western</norp> classical music to <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> before making pioneering collections of traditional <norp>Taiwanese</norp> music .


His major opera on Zheng Chenggong -LRB- Koxinga -RRB- debuted just last year .

His major opera on <person>Zheng Chenggong</person> -LRB- <person>Koxinga</person> -RRB- debuted just <date>last year</date> .


The most important Taiwanese musical master of the last half century , he was a beloved teacher to many .

The most important <norp>Taiwanese</norp> musical master of <date>the last half century</date> , he was a beloved teacher to many .


His legacy will live on through his students .


-LRB- photo by Diago Chiu -RRB-

-LRB- photo by <person>Diago Chiu</person> -RRB-


Chang Kwang-chih taught for decades at Harvard and Yale but never forgot his homeland Taiwan .

<person>Chang Kwang-chih</person> taught for <date>decades</date> at <org>Harvard</org> and <org>Yale</org> but never forgot his homeland <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> .


Though afflicted with Parkinson 's disease in his later years , he nonetheless served as vice president of the Academia Sinica .

Though afflicted with <person>Parkinson</person> 's disease in <date>his later years</date> , he nonetheless served as vice president of <org>the Academia Sinica</org> .


He made a major contribution toward developing the field of archeology in Taiwan .

He made a major contribution toward developing the field of archeology in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> .


-LRB- file photo -RRB-


p. 63


" Only with a true understanding of history can we clearly chart a future path ! "


What people respected most about the historian Tai Kuo-hui was his determination to face historical truth and his refusal to heed prevailing dogma and political fashion .

What people respected most about the historian <person>Tai Kuo-hui</person> was his determination to face historical truth and his refusal to heed prevailing dogma and political fashion .


The photo shows him at a forum discussing the island 's political future in the wake of the last presidential election , which transferred power from one party to another .


-LRB- photo by Pu Hua-chih -RRB-

-LRB- photo by <person>Pu Hua-chih</person> -RRB-


Ancient Giants of the Forest -


Taiwan 's False Cypresses


-LRB- Chang Chin - ju / photos by Lai Chun - piao / tr. by Robert Taylor -RRB-

-LRB- <person>Chang Chin - ju</person> / photos by <person>Lai Chun - piao</person> / tr. by <person>Robert Taylor</person> -RRB-


The Bible says : " If you have faith as a grain of mustard seed , you will say to this mountain , ' Move hence to yonder place , ' and it will move ; and nothing will be impossible to you . "

The <work_of_art>Bible</work_of_art> says : " If you have faith as a grain of mustard seed , you will say to this mountain , ' Move hence to yonder place , ' and it will move ; and nothing will be impossible to you . "


For small as the mustard seed is , it grows into a mighty , spreading tree .


Applying these words to Taiwan , they most aptly describe the Taiwan red cypress , whose tiny seeds are the origin of Taiwan 's greatest trees .

Applying these words to <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> , they most aptly describe the <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> red cypress , whose tiny seeds are the origin of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's greatest trees .


From conelets three millimeters in diameter come seeds no larger than sesame seeds , yet they grow into huge trees up to 60 meters tall .

From conelets three millimeters in diameter come seeds no larger than sesame seeds , yet they grow into huge trees up to <quantity>60 meters</quantity> tall .


The Taiwan red cypress witnessed Taiwan 's birth , squeezed up by the collision of two tectonic plates , and its progress from a fragile mass of broken rock to a more stable geology .

The <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> red cypress witnessed <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's birth , squeezed up by the collision of two tectonic plates , and its progress from a fragile mass of broken rock to a more stable geology .


It has also witnessed the rise and fall of Taiwan 's forestry industry .

It has also witnessed the rise and fall of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's forestry industry .


Hsiuluan Village , an Atayal community in eastern Hsinchu County , was one of the last places in Taiwan to be reached by modern civilization , and was once famous as the " village without lights . "

<gpe>Hsiuluan Village</gpe> , an <norp>Atayal</norp> community in eastern <gpe>Hsinchu County</gpe> , was one of the last places in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> to be reached by modern civilization , and was once famous as the " village without lights . "


In the mountain forest above Hsiuluan 's outlying hamlet of Chenhsipao , bushes and creepers form a dense undergrowth , and a blanket of damp fallen leaves makes the going slippery underfoot .

In the mountain forest above <gpe>Hsiuluan</gpe> 's outlying hamlet of <gpe>Chenhsipao</gpe> , bushes and creepers form a dense undergrowth , and a blanket of damp fallen leaves makes the going slippery underfoot .


Every ten to 20 meters , a magnificent Taiwan red cypress , thousands of years old and with a trunk three to four meters thick , towers 40 meters into the sky .

<quantity>Every ten to 20 meters</quantity> , a magnificent <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> red cypress , thousands of years old and with a trunk <quantity>three to four meters</quantity> thick , towers <quantity>40 meters</quantity> into the sky .


Awe - stricken hikers standing below these great trees have the impression of having fallen into a sea of jungle , from which they can barely see the sky .


This remnant of virgin cypress forest runs northward to Taoyuan County 's Mt. Lala and to Chilan in Ilan County .

This remnant of virgin cypress forest runs northward to <gpe>Taoyuan County 's</gpe> <loc>Mt. Lala</loc> and to <gpe>Chilan</gpe> in <gpe>Ilan County</gpe> .


This great wall of trees acts as a vital " safety valve , " regulating the flow of water into the Shihmen Reservoir , the Tanshui River and the Lanyang River , on which millions of people in northern Taiwan depend for the water they drink .

This great wall of trees acts as a vital " safety valve , " regulating the flow of water into <loc>the Shihmen Reservoir</loc> , <loc>the Tanshui River</loc> and <loc>the Lanyang River</loc> , on which millions of people in northern <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> depend for the water they drink .


The coat of green which clothes the mountains intimately affects water quality and soil stability in Taoyuan , Hsinchu , Miaoli and Ilan Counties .

The coat of green which clothes the mountains intimately affects water quality and soil stability in <gpe>Taoyuan</gpe> , <gpe>Hsinchu</gpe> , <gpe>Miaoli</gpe> and <gpe>Ilan Counties</gpe> .


A land of clouds and mists


Taiwan 's " false cypresses " - trees of the genus Chamaecyparis , a subdivision of the cypress family , Cupressaceae - are relics of the ice ages which brought them to our geologically young island .

<gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's " false cypresses " - trees of the genus Chamaecyparis , a subdivision of the cypress family , Cupressaceae - are relics of the ice ages which brought them to our geologically young island .


Thirty million years ago , Chamaecyparis species were distributed all over the world .

<date>Thirty million years ago</date> , Chamaecyparis species were distributed all over the world .


But after the ice ages , the high mountains of Taiwan , which were squeezed up from the edges of two tectonic plates a million years ago , became their refuge .

But after the ice ages , the high mountains of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> , which were squeezed up from the edges of two tectonic plates a million years ago , became their refuge .


Today , only six false cypress species remain anywhere in the world , scattered far apart in North America , Japan and Taiwan .

Today , only <cardinal>six</cardinal> false cypress species remain anywhere in the world , scattered far apart in <loc>North America</loc> , <gpe>Japan</gpe> and <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> .


Two of them are native to Taiwan : the Taiwan red cypress -LRB- Chamaecyparis formosensis , a.k.a. the Formosan cypress -RRB- and the Taiwan yellow cypress -LRB- Chamaecyparis obtusa var. formosana , a variety of hinoki cypress -RRB- .

<cardinal>Two</cardinal> of them are native to <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> : the <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> red cypress -LRB- Chamaecyparis formosensis , a.k.a. the Formosan cypress -RRB- and the <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> yellow cypress -LRB- Chamaecyparis obtusa var. formosana , a variety of hinoki cypress -RRB- .


The home of Taiwan 's false cypresses is at medium elevations from 1,300 to 2,600 meters , which is Taiwan 's area of greatest precipitation and a major source of water for over 100 rivers .

The home of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's false cypresses is at medium elevations from <quantity>1,300 to 2,600 meters</quantity> , which is <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's area of greatest precipitation and a major source of water for <cardinal>over 100</cardinal> rivers .


At these elevations there is much rainfall but relatively little wind , and the mountains are shrouded in clouds and mists all year round ; hence the forests there are also known as cloud forests .


In this environment of constant humidity , the Taiwan red cypress grew into East Asia 's biggest conifer , with average heights from 30 to 40 meters .

In this environment of constant humidity , the <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> red cypress grew into <loc>East Asia 's</loc> biggest conifer , with average heights from <quantity>30 to 40 meters</quantity> .


The cypress forests also mark the transition between Taiwan 's broadleaved and coniferous forests .

The cypress forests also mark the transition between <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's broadleaved and coniferous forests .


False cypresses make up more than 70 % of the trees in this zone , but they are accompanied by a rich variety of other plants , including other big trees like Formosan taiwania -LRB- Taiwania cryptomerioides -RRB- , Formosan cunninghamia -LRB- Cunninghamia konishii -RRB- and Chinese yew -LRB- Taxus mairei -RRB- .

False cypresses make up <percent>more than 70 %</percent> of the trees in this zone , but they are accompanied by a rich variety of other plants , including other big trees like Formosan taiwania -LRB- Taiwania cryptomerioides -RRB- , Formosan cunninghamia -LRB- Cunninghamia konishii -RRB- and <norp>Chinese</norp> yew -LRB- Taxus mairei -RRB- .


Hidden in the dark , damp understorey are a third of Taiwan 's fern species , and the millennia - old false cypresses are also a paradise for epiphytic plants - as many as 80 species have been found growing on a single tree .

Hidden in the dark , damp understorey are a third of Taiwan 's fern species , and the millennia - old false cypresses are also a paradise for epiphytic plants - as many as <cardinal>80</cardinal> species have been found growing on a single tree .


Taiwan 's Earth God


The devastating 21 September earthquake of 1999 left Taiwan 's landscape covered in scars , but researchers discovered that the places least damaged by the quake were areas of natural forest .

The devastating <event>21 September earthquake of 1999</event> left <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's landscape covered in scars , but researchers discovered that the places least damaged by the quake were areas of natural forest .


In mountain regions where the rainfall is most abundant , the geology most fragile and erosive forces most powerful , the false cypresses , with their massive trunks and mighty root systems , cling tightly to the frail earth .


Professor Chen Yu - feng of Providence University , who has been studying Taiwan 's flora for many years , explains that false cypress forests often grew where river erosion created large areas of debris from rockslides .

Professor <person>Chen Yu - feng</person> of <org>Providence University</org> , who has been studying <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's flora for many years , explains that false cypress forests often grew where river erosion created large areas of debris from rockslides .


As tectonic forces pushed Taiwan continuously upwards and the rivers carved their way downward , such areas of collapse occurred in many places .

As tectonic forces pushed <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> continuously upwards and the rivers carved their way downward , such areas of collapse occurred in many places .


Doughty false cypress seeds seized the opportunity to colonize this hostile territory shunned by other plants .


There they gradually grew into gigantic trees , rehabilitating the land and attracting other species .


At the same time they protected downstream areas , making them suitable for settlement and farming .


" The growth of the cypress forests stabilized the rubble brought down by the rushing mountain rivers .


The false cypresses are living ' spirits ' which naturally restore the land , " says Chen Yu - feng .

The false cypresses are living ' spirits ' which naturally restore the land , " says <person>Chen Yu - feng</person> .


For the past million years , clouds rolling in on northeasterly monsoon fronts in winter and southwesterly airflows in summer have carried their moisture into the mountain valleys , to slowly condense onto the slopes where the false cypresses grow .

For <date>the past million years</date> , clouds rolling in on northeasterly monsoon fronts in winter and southwesterly airflows in summer have carried their moisture into the mountain valleys , to slowly condense onto the slopes where the false cypresses grow .


Steeped in this dampness , the flora and fauna of the forest continued an unending cycle of growth and renewal through the changing seasons .


The only humans who entered there were the aboriginal people who came to hunt and to collect wild fruit and berries .


Every few decades the shaking of the earth would ravage this ecosystem , but protected by the vitality of the cypresses the land would gradually recover .


The nemesis of the cypress trees


However , the advent of mechanization , coupled with human greed , heralded a period of rapacious exploitation .


In the 19th century human beings swarmed into Taiwan 's dark mountains like busy worker ants .

In <date>the 19th century</date> human beings swarmed into <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's dark mountains like busy worker ants .


The false cypresses , which had conversed with the clouds for a million years , were identified as top - grade timber , and were thus condemned to an inexorable fate .

The false cypresses , which had conversed with the clouds for <date>a million years</date> , were identified as top - grade timber , and were thus condemned to an inexorable fate .


After Taiwan was ceded to Japan following the Sino - Japanese war of 1894 , while the Japanese were still quelling resistance to their rule they also went into the island 's mountains to collect botanical specimens .

After <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> was ceded to <gpe>Japan</gpe> following <event>the Sino - Japanese war</event> of <date>1894</date> , while the <norp>Japanese</norp> were still quelling resistance to their rule they also went into the island 's mountains to collect botanical specimens .


In 1896 , a Japanese biologist collected the first specimen of Taiwan red cypress on Yushan , and before long the Taiwan yellow cypress was found there too .

In <date>1896</date> , a <norp>Japanese</norp> biologist collected the first specimen of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> red cypress on <gpe>Yushan</gpe> , and before long the <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> yellow cypress was found there too .


In 1899 , the great cypress forests of Mt. Ali were discovered , and in 1912 , the Japanese colonial government began large - scale logging there .

In <date>1899</date> , the great cypress forests of <loc>Mt. Ali</loc> were discovered , and in <date>1912</date> , the <norp>Japanese</norp> colonial government began large - scale logging there .


Everywhere the Alishan Mountain Railway passes at higher elevations was once cypress forest .

Everywhere <fac>the Alishan Mountain Railway</fac> passes at higher elevations was once cypress forest .


Soon afterwards the forests of Mt. Taiping in modern Ilan County and Mt. Pahsien in Nantou were also opened up for logging .

Soon afterwards the forests of <loc>Mt. Taiping</loc> in modern <gpe>Ilan County</gpe> and <loc>Mt. Pahsien</loc> in <gpe>Nantou</gpe> were also opened up for logging .


Endless streams of cypress logs flowed out of the mountains , and were carried across the sea to Japan to become pillars for Shinto shrines .

Endless streams of cypress logs flowed out of the mountains , and were carried across the sea to <gpe>Japan</gpe> to become pillars for Shinto shrines .


Quite apart from the incomparable quality of their timber , in terms of numbers alone the Taiwan red and yellow cypress took second and third place among Taiwan 's trees , so they became long - term cash cows for the island 's forestry industry .

Quite apart from the incomparable quality of their timber , in terms of numbers alone the <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> red and yellow cypress took <ordinal>second</ordinal> and <ordinal>third</ordinal> place among <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's trees , so they became long - term cash cows for the island 's forestry industry .


After Taiwan 's return to Chinese rule , from the 1950s to the 1980s the ROC used forestry income to support its industrial development .

After <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's return to <norp>Chinese</norp> rule , from the <date>1950s</date> to the <date>1980s</date> the <gpe>ROC</gpe> used forestry income to support its industrial development .


The logging grounds advanced deep into Taiwan 's heart , consuming even greater areas than under the Japanese .

The logging grounds advanced deep into <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's heart , consuming even greater areas than under the <norp>Japanese</norp> .


False cypresses accounted for two - thirds of the 300,000 hectares of commercial forest , and contributed 70 - 80 % of forestry income .

False cypresses accounted for <cardinal>two - thirds</cardinal> of <quantity>the 300,000 hectares</quantity> of commercial forest , and contributed <percent>70 - 80 %</percent> of forestry income .


All of Taiwan 's forest recreation areas today are to be found in the former cypress logging grounds .

All of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's forest recreation areas today are to be found in the former cypress logging grounds .


The Alishan Mountain Railway , and the long forestry roads which wind through Taiwan 's four major mountain ranges , were all built for the sole purpose of shifting the huge cypress logs down the slopes .

<fac>The Alishan Mountain Railway</fac> , and the long forestry roads which wind through <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's <cardinal>four</cardinal> major mountain ranges , were all built for the sole purpose of shifting the huge cypress logs down the slopes .


" You could say that everything connected with Taiwan 's forestry industry developed around the false cypresses , " says forest ecologist Yang Kuo - chen , an associate professor at Providence University .

" You could say that everything connected with <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's forestry industry developed around the false cypresses , " says forest ecologist <person>Yang Kuo - chen</person> , an associate professor at <org>Providence University</org> .


The history of forestry in Taiwan is a history of false cypress felling , says Yang .

The history of forestry in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> is a history of false cypress felling , says <person>Yang</person> .


Hinoki and merihi


If you speak of " hinoki , " the Japanese name of the Taiwan yellow cypress , older Taiwanese will lift their noses as if catching a whiff of its unmistakable fragrance - it has a firm place in their memories as the best of timbers .

If you speak of " hinoki , " the <norp>Japanese</norp> name of the <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> yellow cypress , older <norp>Taiwanese</norp> will lift their noses as if catching a whiff of its unmistakable fragrance - it has a firm place in their memories as the best of timbers .


The Taiwan yellow and red cypress each have their own different qualities .

The <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> yellow and red cypress each have their own different qualities .


The Taiwan yellow cypress grows pencil - straight towards the heavens , and has a higher content of oil , from which a fragrant essence can be refined .

The <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> yellow cypress grows pencil - straight towards the heavens , and has a higher content of oil , from which a fragrant essence can be refined .


In 1971 , after the Shinto gate at the Meiji Shrine in Tokyo was struck by lightning , the Japanese authorities especially came to Taiwan to buy 11 huge , straight Taiwan yellow cypress logs 16 to 24 meters long , cut from trees over 1,500 years old , to create the world 's biggest Shinto gate .

In <date>1971</date> , after the Shinto gate at <fac>the Meiji Shrine</fac> in <gpe>Tokyo</gpe> was struck by lightning , the <norp>Japanese</norp> authorities especially came to <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> to buy <cardinal>11</cardinal> huge , straight <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> yellow cypress logs <quantity>16 to 24 meters</quantity> long , cut from trees <date>over 1,500 years old</date> , to create the world 's biggest Shinto gate .


As for the Taiwan red cypress - merihi in Japanese - it is even more magnificent in appearance than the Taiwan yellow cypress .

As for the <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> red cypress - merihi in <language>Japanese</language> - it is even more magnificent in appearance than the <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> yellow cypress .


But the Taiwan red cypress 's trunk is often divided , and because it mostly grows in wet river valleys the heartwood is prone to be eaten away by bacteria , producing strangely tangled hollow trees .

But the <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> red cypress 's trunk is often divided , and because it mostly grows in wet river valleys the heartwood is prone to be eaten away by bacteria , producing strangely tangled hollow trees .


The crown is also broad and difficult to cut .


This is why the gigantic ancient trees that have escaped the loggers ' chainsaws , such as those at Mt. Ali and Mt. Lala , are all Taiwan red cypress .

This is why the gigantic ancient trees that have escaped the loggers ' chainsaws , such as those at <loc>Mt. Ali</loc> and <loc>Mt. Lala</loc> , are all <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> red cypress .


Human life is fleeting , but cypress is forever .


As the forestry industry gradually declined , the forestry huts built in the Central Range in the Japanese period fell into disrepair , but their cypress - wood washbasins are still as good as new .

As the forestry industry gradually declined , the forestry huts built in <loc>the Central Range</loc> in the <norp>Japanese</norp> period fell into disrepair , but their cypress - wood washbasins are still as good as new .


The close grain of their growth rings reveals their age , and their resilience .


In the early days , the sleepers used for the Alishan Mountain Railway were cut from broadleaved trees such as beech and Michelia compressa .

In the early days , the sleepers used for <fac>the Alishan Mountain Railway</fac> were cut from broadleaved trees such as beech and Michelia compressa .


But tough as these woods are , the sleepers only stood up to three to five years of logging trains rumbling over them , so there was no choice but to change them all for sleepers made of false cypress wood , which lasted for decades .


And when the railways were finally taken out of service , the Taiwan Forestry Bureau -LRB- TFB -RRB- sold off the old sleepers , and from the proceeds not only was able to recoup the cost of dismantling the railways , but was also left with a tidy sum for its own coffers .

And when the railways were finally taken out of service , <org>the Taiwan Forestry Bureau -LRB- TFB -RRB-</org> sold off the old sleepers , and from the proceeds not only was able to recoup the cost of dismantling the railways , but was also left with a tidy sum for its own coffers .


For the older generation , the excellence of false cypress wood is hard to put into words .


Old folk to this day still rattle on about how the cypress - wood sleeping platforms of Japanese - style houses were long - lasting and hard - wearing , and how the best bathtubs were of course those of made of false cypress wood .


In the eyes of furniture makers , " False cypress wood is light and easy to work ; it is flexible , rotproof and termite resistant .


It rarely warps , and hardly shrinks ; it planes to a smooth , fine surface .


It 's so versatile : boats , bridges , carriages , cabinets or coffins - there 's not one it 's not suitable for . "


In short , of all Taiwan 's commercial timbers , there 's not another to match it .

In short , of all <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's commercial timbers , there 's not another to match it .


Pining away


However , behind these sweet memories of cypress wood are the regrets of the foresters .


Surveys made before logging began at Mt. Ali , Taiwan 's earliest cypress logging area , showed that there were more than 300,000 false cypresses over 1,000 years old , but today all that remains of them is a few lonely - looking old trees scattered among introduced Japanese red cedar -LRB- Cryptomeria japonica -RRB- and flowering cherries .

Surveys made before logging began at <loc>Mt. Ali</loc> , <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's earliest cypress logging area , showed that there were <cardinal>more than 300,000</cardinal> false cypresses <date>over 1,000 years</date> old , but today all that remains of them is a few lonely - looking old trees scattered among introduced <norp>Japanese</norp> red cedar -LRB- Cryptomeria japonica -RRB- and flowering cherries .


Despite its great fame , deprived of the company of its own species the most celebrated of the giant Taiwan red cypresses of Mt. Ali finally succumbed to lightning and fire .

Despite its great fame , deprived of the company of its own species the most celebrated of the giant <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> red cypresses of <loc>Mt. Ali</loc> finally succumbed to lightning and fire .


The TFB once hoped that if a few false cypresses were left standing in each of the old logging areas , they would seed naturally .

The <org>TFB</org> once hoped that if a few false cypresses were left standing in each of the old logging areas , they would seed naturally .


But they discovered that although the trees were completely uninjured , they died one by one .


Late Taiwanese forestry expert Liu Chin described these few remaining trees as " dying of loneliness . "

Late <norp>Taiwanese</norp> forestry expert <person>Liu Chin</person> described these few remaining trees as " dying of loneliness . "


It seems that when abandoned by the companions they had relied on for millennia , and left to face the rigors of their environment alone , these ancient survivors went into terminal decline .


But an even greater cause for regret is that " 50 years of intensive false cypress logging tore the heart out of Taiwan 's life - support system .

But an even greater cause for regret is that " <date>50 years</date> of intensive false cypress logging tore the heart out of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's life - support system .


This devastation , coupled with agriculture moving up into the mountains , can only result in landslides , floods and all kinds of ' natural ' disasters . . . . "


With ecologists ' warnings ringing in their ears , now that floods and mudslides have become a common occurrence , people can only nod in tacit agreement .


Large - scale logging of false cypresses continued right up to 1989 .

Large - scale logging of false cypresses continued right up to <date>1989</date> .


With forestry earning no profits , and in response to energetic lobbying by civic groups , the Executive Yuan finally banned the cutting of natural forests , at last giving a respite to the giant trees which protect Taiwan 's land .

With forestry earning no profits , and in response to energetic lobbying by civic groups , <org>the Executive Yuan</org> finally banned the cutting of natural forests , at last giving a respite to the giant trees which protect <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's land .


But the great wall of 20 million gigantic false cypress trees which once stretched the length of Taiwan had already been breached .

But the great wall of <cardinal>20 million</cardinal> gigantic false cypress trees which once stretched the length of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> had already been breached .


Apart from some scattered local stands , the Taiwan red cypress forest of Mt. Hsiukulan in central Taiwan , and the 10,000 - plus hectares of Taiwan yellow cypress at Mt. Chilan in Ilan County in northern Taiwan , are the island 's only remaining forests of giant trees .

Apart from some scattered local stands , the <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> red cypress forest of <loc>Mt. Hsiukulan</loc> in central <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> , and <quantity>the 10,000 - plus hectares</quantity> of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> yellow cypress at <loc>Mt. Chilan</loc> in <gpe>Ilan County</gpe> in northern <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> , are the island 's only remaining forests of giant trees .


Whose national park ?


Humans cut down the million year - old cypress forests in less than a century , but the story of their destruction is not over .

Humans cut down the <date>million year - old</date> cypress forests in <date>less than a century</date> , but the story of their destruction is not over .


Amazingly , the ban on logging natural forests has not protected Chilan , the only single - species forest of hinoki cypress surviving in the world today .

Amazingly , the ban on logging natural forests has not protected <loc>Chilan</loc> , the only single - species forest of hinoki cypress surviving in the world today .


Before the ban , the Vocational Assistance Commission for Retired Servicemen -LRB- VACRS -RRB- , which manages Chilan , had already cut down almost 6,000 hectares .

Before the ban , <org>the Vocational Assistance Commission for Retired Servicemen -LRB- VACRS -RRB-</org> , which manages <loc>Chilan</loc> , had already cut down <quantity>almost 6,000 hectares</quantity> .


To generate income , VACRS has continued logging there under the pretext of " clearing away dead and fallen trees to make space for young trees to grow . "

To generate income , <org>VACRS</org> has continued logging there under the pretext of " clearing away dead and fallen trees to make space for young trees to grow . "


Ecologists and biologists can only repeat again :


" The trees have been growing by themselves for tens of thousands of years , so why would they need human help for their saplings to grow ? "


In response to this situation a popular movement sprang up to push for the establishment of a " cypress forest national park , " in the hope that with national park status , the last remaining virgin Taiwan yellow cypress forest could be saved .

In response to this situation a popular movement sprang up to push for the establishment of a " cypress forest national park , " in the hope that with national park status , the last remaining virgin <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> yellow cypress forest could be saved .


Perhaps the millennium year was a decisive one for the trees , for the Executive Yuan allocated new funds to the VACRS so that it no longer needs to cut down trees to bolster its finances , and also approved a plan to set up a national park .

Perhaps <date>the millennium year</date> was a decisive one for the trees , for <org>the Executive Yuan</org> allocated new funds to the <org>VACRS</org> so that it no longer needs to cut down trees to bolster its finances , and also approved a plan to set up a national park .


But so - called ecotourism is now emerging as another threat to the trees ' survival .


To assure the livelihood of the local Atayal aborigines of Chilan , when the cypress national park is set up consideration will have to be given to how to balance the need to protect the forests with the demand for sustainable tourism .

To assure the livelihood of the local <norp>Atayal</norp> aborigines of <loc>Chilan</loc> , when the cypress national park is set up consideration will have to be given to how to balance the need to protect the forests with the demand for sustainable tourism .


How can Taiwan 's false cypresses become more than just a tool of human economic activity ?

How can <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's false cypresses become more than just a tool of human economic activity ?


Can the sad history of cypress logging teach the people of Taiwan a lesson in how to truly care for their land ?

Can the sad history of cypress logging teach the people of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> a lesson in how to truly care for their land ?


Perhaps these questions are still more important than the issue of establishing a national park .


A future for the cypresses ?


At the Atayal village of Chenhsipao in Hsinchu County , by three in the afternoon the clouds rolling in from afar have quietly slipped over the ridges and covered the whole mountainside where the cypress trees grow .

At the <norp>Atayal</norp> village of <gpe>Chenhsipao</gpe> in <gpe>Hsinchu County</gpe> , by <time>three in the afternoon</time> the clouds rolling in from afar have quietly slipped over the ridges and covered the whole mountainside where the cypress trees grow .


Here , in Taiwan 's remote but vitally important heartland , gigantic trees which have survived the long river of time and escaped the ravages of logging stand undaunted , like guardian spirits quietly protecting the Atayal people and Taiwan 's land .

Here , in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's remote but vitally important heartland , gigantic trees which have survived the long river of time and escaped the ravages of logging stand undaunted , like guardian spirits quietly protecting the <norp>Atayal</norp> people and <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's land .


Only if we can allow the cypress trees a future , will the people of Taiwan also have a lasting future .

Only if we can allow the cypress trees a future , will the people of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> also have a lasting future .


p. 31


The virgin Taiwan yellow cypress forest of Chilan dwarfs human visitors .

The virgin <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> yellow cypress forest of <loc>Chilan</loc> dwarfs human visitors .


Can today 's generation of Taiwanese save our island 's last remaining forest of these giant trees , for themselves and later generations ?

Can today 's generation of <norp>Taiwanese</norp> save our island 's last remaining forest of these giant trees , for themselves and later generations ?


p. 33


On the pretext of clearing dead wood , many live Taiwan yellow cypresses have been felled in the forest of Chilan .

On the pretext of clearing dead wood , many live <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> yellow cypresses have been felled in the forest of <loc>Chilan</loc> .


The seeds hidden in the tiny conelets of the Taiwan red cypress seem blessed with a mysterious power .

The seeds hidden in the tiny conelets of the <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> red cypress seem blessed with a mysterious power .


In the harshest of natural environments , they grow into mighty , towering trees .


-LRB- photo by Jimmy Lin -RRB-

-LRB- photo by <person>Jimmy Lin</person> -RRB-


p. 34


This Taiwan red cypress planted by the Japanese at Mt. Ali in 1915 has now reached a girth of 70 centimeters .

This <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> red cypress planted by the <norp>Japanese</norp> at <loc>Mt. Ali</loc> in <date>1915</date> has now reached a girth of <quantity>70 centimeters</quantity> .


But the smallest commercial size of Taiwan red cypress is 150 centimeters .

But the smallest commercial size of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> red cypress is <quantity>150 centimeters</quantity> .


This means that artificially planted trees are not ready for harvest until they are 300 years old .

This means that artificially planted trees are not ready for harvest until they are <date>300 years old</date> .


Hence since the false cypress forests were cleared , Taiwanese - preferring quick profits - have generally planted Japanese red cedar , which is ready to be felled after only 20 years .

Hence since the false cypress forests were cleared , <norp>Taiwanese</norp> - preferring quick profits - have generally planted <norp>Japanese</norp> red cedar , which is ready to be felled after only <date>20 years</date> .


Innocents Abroad


Educating Taiwanese Kids in the PRC

Educating <norp>Taiwanese</norp> Kids in the <gpe>PRC</gpe>


-LRB- Jackie Chen / photos by Diago Chiu / tr. by David Mayer -RRB-

-LRB- <person>Jackie Chen</person> / photos by <person>Diago Chiu</person> / tr. by <person>David Mayer</person> -RRB-


When Taiwanese business people take up an expatriate lifestyle , the thing they worry about most is family matters , especially the education of their growing children .

When <norp>Taiwanese</norp> business people take up an expatriate lifestyle , the thing they worry about most is family matters , especially the education of their growing children .


For Taiwanese expatriates in mainland China , incompatibility between the Taiwanese and mainland education systems is the main reason why most of them do not move their families across with them .

For <norp>Taiwanese</norp> expatriates in mainland <gpe>China</gpe> , incompatibility between the <norp>Taiwanese</norp> and mainland education systems is the main reason why most of them do not move their families across with them .