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AROUND KAOHSIUNG &
NEW VIEWS of Southern Taiwan
On-line articles are included
Check issues below and follow the links
1
  Around Kaohsiung(Oct 1999)
2
  Wake up to Yen Cheng (Jan-Feb 2000)
3
  Southern Taiwan's Sunny Kenting (Mar-Apr 2000)
4
  Fun & Fitness in the City (May-Jun 2000)
5
  Tainan.  Treasure of the South (Jul-Aug 2000)
6
  A Tribute to Teachers & Students (Sep-Oct 2000)
7
  Transportation.  Trends & Traditions (Nov-Dec 2000)
8
  The Face of Business (Jan-Feb 2001)
9
  Nature & the Environment (Mar-Apr 2001)
10
  Cultural Crossroads (May-Jun 2001)
11
  Japan Style (Jul-Aug 2001)
  On-line Stories in MANDARIN & ENGLISH!!!
12
  Kids & the Young at Heart (Sep-Oct 2001) 
  On-line Stories in MANDARIN & ENGLISH!!!

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Inaugural Issue
Around Kaohsiung
October, 1999

There is an old aboriginal saying, "Many feet, one heart".  It suggests that great things can be accomplished by those who share the same goal.   The phrase can be applied to the many internationals in Kaohsiung.  We are a diverse group, but with similarities far outweighing the differences.  We also share the same needs, dreams and fears as our Taiwan friends and neighbors.  This is our strength.  Together we can achieve great things.  Thanks to all who have given support and encouragement.  We depend on you!

Neighborhoods
Social, Business and Sporting Groups

Cover Photo: Tom Miller
Layout Design: Around Kaohsiung
Publisher: WenTzao Alumni Association
Founder & Managing Editor: Karen Schmitt

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Wake up to Yen Cheng
January~February, 2000

"Everything just felt right", explained the photographer.  Sometimes, that's all it takes to make the perfect photo.  Of course it doesn't hurt to include the perfect subject, too.  Like the old steamer maker on Wufu 4th Road.  Surrounded by the fruits of his labor, he sits at a well worn work bench coaxing bamboo into shape simply and silently.  It's been this way for generations in Yen Cheng. Resting in the shadows of the big city, Yen Cheng is loaded with character that sets it apart with a mix of the traditional and the trendy.  So, what are you waiting for...it's time to Wake Up to Yen Cheng!

Wake Up to Yen Cheng!
Cultural Connections
 

Cover Photo: Tom Miller
Layout Design: Around Kaohsiung
Publisher: WenTzao Alumni Association
Managing Editor: Karen Schmitt

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Sunny Kenting
March~April, 2000

With this issue, we spread our wings and travel south to the sunny beaches and sunny smiles of Kenting.  The trip coincides with the newest Hot Spot in town, the National Museum of Marine Biology & Aquarium that opened on February 25th. Dedicated to educating the public and preserving marine resources, the museum is a "must see".  We've included a DIY Tour of the southern tip of the island that will come n handy if you head that way over Spring Break. You don't really need to wait for a holiday to visit.  Hengchuen holds the promise of "spring forever" for surfers, divers, sightseers and anyone in need of "R&R".

Keeping an Eye on Kenting
DIY Tour of Hengchuen
Surf's Up
Making Waves. The NEW Marine Museum

Cover Photo:  National Museum of Marine Biology & Aquarium
Layout Design: Around Kaohsiung
Publisher: WenTzao Alumni Association
Managing Editor: Karen Schmitt

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Fun & Fitness in the City
May~June, 2000

We're flying high and packed with ideas for finding Fun & Fitness in southern Taiwan.  If you're ready for a real rush, take to the skies in an ultra light.  A local adventurer provides a glimpse of the sport and breath taking views above Santimen (Kaohsiung County).  If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, try a climb up Long Life Mountain, city landmark and home to tribes of friendly monkeys. For an inner city hike, "Get a Grip on Kushan" points the way. 

In May, we salute Mothers everywhere for Mother's Day.  The Jade Market suggests that this is THE place for gift ideas.  Come June, things will heat up along Love River as the Dragon Boat races begin.  Take the plunge, and find some fun and fitness in the city!

  • Flying High Above Kaohsiung. Ultra lights  by Lance Appleford
  • Get a Grip on Kushan by Karen Schmitt
  • Long Life Mountain by Johnny Tsai
  • Dragon Boat Daze by Abby Jang
  • From Fat to Fit.  A Personal Journey by Shari Leiterman
  • Annie & Teresea Discover the Jade Market by Masha Gazizova
  • Traditional Chinese Maternity Care by Faye Chen
Cover Photo: Gerry Giroux
Layout Design: Watching Art
Publisher: WenTzao Alumni Association
Managing Editor: Karen Schmitt
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Tainan.  Treasure of the South
July~August, 2000

So close....yet, so far...

Tainan, the jewel of southern Taiwan that's "just around the corner", is worlds apart.  Once the ancient capital, the city is a stronghold of traditions.  Even though relics may require a bit of imagination there is something you can really sink your teeth into here.  We've just scratched the surface on our neighbor to the north leaving more for you to uncover.  Invite a friend to explore the city, and fill up on the culture AND cuisine of Tainan. 

Beyond Tainan City, fields ripe with mango, pineapple, coconut and a host of tasty treasures stretch far into the countryside. Home to numerous tourist farms and the fast tracking Science Park, Tainan County is both the "belly and the brains" of southern Taiwan. 

Take time to know Tainan

  • Soul Food Street Snacks of Tainan by Karen Schmitt
  • The Adventures of Liv Dutch in Tainan (1652-1672) by Anita Steiner
  • Back to the Basics.  A fresh look at Tainan County
  • Lotus Eaters.  Sojourns in Kuantzuling by Beth Fowler
  • Sew What!  Keeping Chinese textile traditions alive
Cover Photo: Richard Huang
Layout Design: Watching Art
Publisher: WenTzao Alumni Association
Managing Editor: Karen Schmitt
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A Tribute to Teachers & Students
September~October, 2000

The largest and oldest Confucian "temple" is located in the hometown of Confucius, present day Chufu in Shantung Province.  It serves as a blueprint for all others.  Of the approximately 30 examples in Taiwan, Tainan's is the most glorious.  Founded during  the Ming Dynasty, it was converted into a prefectural school during the Ching Period.  A plaque hangs proudly in the temple stating, "Head School of Taiwan"

Times have surely changed, and today knowledge springs from quite different sources.  Technology brings information effortlessly via cyberspace, and even a casual trip to the mountains reveals wisdom beyond words.  The guise of "teacher" has changed as well.  Embracing ideas and experiences from distant places, they guide, counsel and nurture their students which enriches us all.  It is a most noble profession.  To those dedicated individuals, we say,  Happy Teachers Day

  • Testing 1..2..3 Confucian Legacy & Exam Reform by Dr. Glenn Shive
  • Communicating in Clay Meinung Yao by Karen Schmitt
  • Mission Possible.  ESL Teaching in Taiwan by Joshua Lawrence
  • Live Wire.  The AJET Program by Laurence Quinlivan
  • The Culture Keeper of Santimen by Karoline Reinthaler
  • Happy Fridays.  Temple Teaching
Cover Photo: Chang Wu Jun
Layout Design: Watching Art
Publisher: Sun Yat-sen America Center (Sun Yat-sen University)
Managing Editor: Karen Schmitt
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Transportation. Trends & Traditions
November~December, 2000

Hop aboard!  This issue features trends in transportation.  The cover, a collage of photos made over 50yrs ago, documents the days when Taiwan fell under Marshall Law.  Film was hard to come by, and many places were off limits to civilian photographers.  At the time, ox-carts, sampans and the "iron horse" (bicycle) carried people on their way.  Dirt roads and mountain paths connected villages.  Travel took days. 

The pace has certainly picked up!  Current venues and vehicles are remarkable by comparison, with new options on the horizon as southern Taiwan looks forward to "Blue Highways" and "Rapid Rails".  In the meantime, most of us navigate the streets and alleyways by cab, car or scooter.  The experience can be intimidating or exhilarating,  but, it's definitely not boring! 

  • The Guiding Light Lighthouses in  Taiwan the History Museum 
  • Matsu.  Protector of Travelers by Antonia Sachtleben
  • A Day in the Life: Harbor Pilot by Karen Schmitt
  • Driving Miss Daisy CRAZY! ROC driving license by Gail Simpson 
  • Street Smart  Lessons Learned on the Streets by Karen Schmitt
  • A Bicycler's Diary The 13 Day Dash by Michael Cosby
Cover Photo: K.M. Tsai
Layout Design: Watching Art
Publisher: Sun Yat-sen America Center (Sun Yat-sen University)
Managing Editor: Karen Schmitt
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The Face of Business    January~February, 2001
The face of business in southern Taiwan embraces a dynamic cast of characters.  From tycoons to transients, each contributes to the hopes and dreams of the region.  Their work place spans tropical resorts, fertile fields and industrial zones and the pace is vigorous year round.  January and February provide some reprieve as everyone anticipates New Year's celebrations, both Western and Asian style. 

Kaohsiung is gearing up for Lantern Day festivities in town, country and temple courtyards, while  Penghu offers Xtreme sports action courtesy of the Adecco Asia Wind Surfing Tour.  Bird enthusiasts will welcome the return of the black faced spoonbill, a rare breed of ibis that winters along the mud flats of Chigu. 

Holiday  or not, it's business as usual for NEW VIEWS.  We wish you health,  happiness and good reading in the months ahead. 

Cover Photo: Courtesy of Fokuan Shan Temple
Layout Design: Watching Art
Managing Editor: Karen Schmitt
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Nature & the Environment    March~April, 2001

NEW VIEWS swings into spring with perspectives on nature and the environment.  The topic coincides with commemorative days that honor the earth and her resources, like Arbor Day, World Weather Day and Earth Day celebrated in countries around the world, and "Ching Ming" ("Bright & Clear Day"), a traditional holiday in Chinese communities. 

Changing seasons are barely noticeable in southern Taiwan, but they were cause for celebration in ancient China.  Ching Ming, April 15 this year, marked the advent of spring.  Skies were clear, flowers bloomed and the earth rose from winter's sleep.  The spirit of renewal was extended to ancestors as well, and Ching Ming was designated Tomb Sweeping Day.  Today in Taiwan, families take a moment to tidy the graves and enjoy a countryside picnic.  Sometimes, a struggling landscape meets the eye.

Serious environmental concerns face us, but solutions are possible, thanks to USAEP.  And we do have "Green Time" options through old growth trees, parks and forest preserves that are within reach. Wherever you roam, think positive, enjoy your time and do what you can to preserve the beauty of southern Taiwan. 

Cover Photo: Bill Skaggs Layout Design: Humor Fun
Publisher: Yu-Mei Liu  Managing Editor: Karen Schmitt
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Cultural Crossroads   May~June, 2001

The theme, "Cultural Crossroads" was inspired by a recent backstage break at Kaohsiung's Music Hall.  Amy Chang, visiting conductor with Taipei's National Symphony and one of the world's few females to hold the position, was busy leading the orchestra through Paginini's Concerto #4. Her spirited direction guided musicians from Russia, America, Hong Kong and Taiwan bringing harmony to a multifaceted stage. 

Cultural crossroads intersect southern Taiwan in a variety of settings, and blend diverse talents, influences and ideas.  The harbor holds foreign traces from the past, and mountain villages are home to friendly people, happy to share their customs and crafts.  Couples embark on cultural crossroads tying the knot between far distant and divergent families, and companies bridge cultural gaps, empowered by international teams. 

It happens everyday.  It happens everywhere.  We meet someone different. We see something new.  And when we move on, our lives have changed in wonderful ways.

Cover Photo: Bill Skaggs   Layout Design: Humor Fun
Publisher: YuMei Liu        Managing Editor: Karen Schmitt
Corporate Sponsor: Qualipoly
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Japan Style  July~August, 2001

Like a richly woven tapestry, vestiges of "Japan Style" weave together with things Taiwanese to cloak the island in surprising array.  Touches here and there in language, pop culture, fashion and food carry reminders of her island neighbor to the north.  Those familiar with Japan may experience a bit of deja-vue. One sweltering summer's day, I was pleasantly surprised to encounter ramune ("bubble lemon"), a traditional bottled drink sealed by a solid glass ball.  It's difficult to find in Japan, sometimes only at festivals, but it was eagerly adopted in Taiwan generations ago and is still sold as a refreshing pick-me-up around town. 

Certain places also prompt a connection, like the "Former City Hall", now Kaohsiung's History Museum that once housed Japanese officials, or Yen Cheng and Kushan harbor areas, the pivot point for old Takao (Kaohsiung City).  Farther afield, the soothing hot springs (Chihpen) and charming rural plantations (Chihshan) remain tinted in "Japan Style" and gently coax reminders. 

There are many more for those of us curious to sample a bit of Japan in southern Taiwan.  We don't have to look far.  A wealth of sights, sounds and tastes is right at the doorstep. 

Cover Photo: Hung Chih-Wen   Layout Deign: Humor Fun
Publisher: YuMei Liu                 Managing Editor: Karen Schmitt
Corporate Sponsor: Wm. Rork, Ltd.
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Cover Photo: Glenn DeVilliers 
Layout Design: Humor Fun
Publisher: YuMei Liu
Managing Editor: Karen Schmitt
 
Kids & the Young at Heart  September~October, 2001

Stories from infancy to adulthood are included for readers of all ages.

The first introduces a new book, Bonding via Baby Carriers and textile crafts of China's hill tribe peoples.  These beautiful works of art celebrate life and the special bonds between mother and child, and more!  Closer to home, Mynor King shares "Lessons of the Land" through personal memoirs.  King grew up in a rural community of southern Taiwan and believes the values gained can benefit today's youth no matter where they live.  In the case of Hsieh Li-Shiang, a childhood fantasy has paid off with a successful chain of local restaurants.  Her determination might inspire some "Driftwood Dreams" of your own. Finally, expatriate children, enrolled in a local pre-school, remind us that unconditional acceptance always paves the way for a brighter day. 

"There's more to Moon Cakes" includes reading on Mid-Autumn treats, plus a coloring page of cake designs for kids.   For those who remain young at heart, we've added a look at Banping Mountain, an overview of easy to reach theme parks, a glimpse of Taiwan style Barbie(tm) dolls and tips on how to maintain that youthful edge through Tai Ch'i.

It's time to awaken the child within and face the world with enthusiasm.  That playful curiosity, that positive sense of purpose and complete "joie de vie" are the childlike qualities that serve to sustain us all.

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