C hina Fostering business and culturalI harmonynsight between China and the U.S.

VOL. 12 NO. 9 OCTOBER 2013 University of Minnesota begins yearlong China 100 celebration

ment to developing more exchange and Minnesota would like to hear from you. partnership opportunities with China in Meanwhile, one upcoming event is Page 3 the next 100 years. During the 2013- “Chinese Students at the University of 2014 academic year, the University of Minnesota: The First 10 Years (1914 Minnesota will celebrate China 100, a – 1924)” presented by Institute for yearlong celebration honoring the first Advanced Study Director and History students from China and the wealth of Professor Ann Waltner. connections that have come since. It Date:Tuesday, Oct. 8 recognizes the past and looks at future Time: 4 - 5:30 p.m. engagements between the University of Location: University International Minnesota and China. Center, Room 101 The University hosts more than Waltner teaches Chinese history and 2,200 students and scholars from China world history with research interests Page 8 each year and also holds more than 80 in the social history of 16th and 17th memorandum of agreements signed century China. She also served as edi- with some 30 Chinese universities as tor of the Journal of Asian Studies from strategic partners. Its world-renowned 2000 to 2005 and has published widely faculty works with Chinese research- on the history of Ming dynasty China Pan Wen Ping, the first Chinese ers to address some of the world’s most and serves on the Advisory Council of student to attend the University of pressing problems. University of Minnesota China Center. Minnesota in 1914. If you were a Chinese student who To participate and learm more about studied at the University of Minnesota, China 100 and related events, visit As one of the first universities to or studied in China, or are a faculty www.china100.umn.edu. u resume academic exchanges with China member who does research in or about Page 14 in 1979, the University of Minnesota China and are willing to share your hopes to continue its strong commit- story, video or photos, the University of Minnesota second quarter exports at $5.2 billion Minnesota exports, including ag- 25 percent to $134 million); exports to China, South Korea and Japan). Page 16 ricultural, mining and manufactured this market, particularly of computer • Smaller markets presented op- products, fell 5.7 percent (or about $313 and related parts, increased 97 percent to portunities for growth, with state exports million) between the second quarters of $66 million. Exports to the EU were up to Africa increasing 24 percent to $60 2012 and 2013 to $5.2 billion. Nation- 10 percent to $1.1 billion, led by gains million and sales to Central and South ally, exports grew a slight 1.6 percent. in the Netherlands, U.K. and Germany.

In This Issue

Trade...... 1,4 Opinion...... 2-3 Business...... 4,8 Education...... 5 America increasing 3 percent to $260 Celebrations...... 6 million. Events...... 9 Sustained Export Growth in Air- Food...... 9 Strong Performance in Europe • Exports to the state’s two ma- craft Parts and Medical Products Culture...... 10-11 jor regions declined 12 percent each • Although overall growth was Mitigates Steep Losses in Asia Travel...... 12-13 and North America between the second quarters of 2012 down, exports among the top 10 prod- • Minnesota exports to Europe and 2013. Minnesota’s exports North ucts (which accounted for 75 percent Health...... 14-15 leaped 12 percent to $1.3 billion, soft- America fell to $1.8 billion (largely of the state’s total exports of goods) Community...... 16 ening the state’s overall export decline. due to the 15 percent drop in sales to increased a combined 3 percent between Switzerland accounted for half of sales Canada) while those to Asia were down MN exports continues on page 4 to European markets outside the EU (up to $1.6 billion (led by sharp losses in PAGE 2 > OCTOBER 2013 opinion www.chinainsight.info Mooncake crackdown ChinaInsight

By Anthony James, staff writer Publisher/Editor: Gregory J. Hugh [email protected] the festivities. Chinese consumers are wary more than ever of Chinese prod- ucts, quick to load up on products from Manager of Operations/ abroad than at home in fear of the harm Circulation: they might produce. Fake eggs, gelatin Richard He injected chicken wings, melamine-taint- [email protected] ed milk powder, and bogus electronic and household goods have put the coun- Marketing: try at risk, with many blaming corrup- Yin Simpson tion of those sworn to protect. In 2010, [email protected] the state media reported that workers in a wine company in Qinhuangdao had Staff Writers: tainted wine with chemicals, artificial Greg Hugh flavorings and coloring. The dishonest [email protected] activity was recorded without fear of re- percussion on closed circuit televisions, Shilyn Chang This last September marked China’s many family traditions, and the moon- [email protected] second most popular holiday after the cakes play a role as well. Sadly, the which were monitored by local officials. New Year. Family members travel hun- generous demeanor of the season has That same year a Guangzhou Daily Elaine Dunn dreds of miles to gather together under become a perfect ground for duplicitous reporter accused police of protecting [email protected] the mid-autumn festivities, celebrating dealings. While business colleagues, illegal businesses in her investigation Anthony James tradition and thanksgiving that have friends, bosses, and employees will ex- of fake eggs. [email protected] been passed down for many genera- change gifts during the holiday, bribes Stories of counterfeits and bribing officials are few and far between in the Jodi Yim James tions. One of the biggest traditions of the and lavish banquets are often disguised [email protected] festival is the sharing of gifts and moon- as the same. As corruption has gone Chinese media. So much that it has taken cakes, a small round pastry filled with out of hand in China, the gifts are no the spotlight President Xi Jinping’s cam- many different varieties of delicacy. longer just delicious mooncakes. Deluxe paign to restore confidence in the Com- Contributors: Patrick Welsh Most would have the traditional lotus, watches, 2,000 yuan bottles of baijiu, munist Party. In a speech early this year, [email protected] jujube or red bean paste, others with houses and land, pre-paid credit cards, Xi promised to take on the “Tigers and salted egg yolk. Today, the decadence of even priceless antiques and paintings Flies” of corruption that was rampant Raymond Lum mooncakes has taken off in popularity as were discreetly given to politicians as with state and local officials. For the [email protected] the desire for luxury has grown. Deluxe “gifts” to celebrate the holidays. The Mid-autumn Festival, don’t expect any mooncakes are being sought after, rare recent trial of politician and presiden- of the public money being used to pay for the precious mooncakes. The crack- Honorary: selections will have Godiva chocolate or tial hopeful Bo Xilai, he was accused Jennifer Nordin, Editor Emeritus down has many officials refusing gifts or coffee, even more expensive types are of receiving 21 million Yuan in cash [email protected] filled with shark fin or bird nest. And the gifts. A former police chief from the city accepting invitations to lavish banquets. price? Try a few thousand yuan. There of Wenzhou was arrested in 2000 for Though you could think mooncakes as are even solid gold or silver mooncakes corruption with 195 paintings from re- small “fly” to the major “tigers”, the priced close to US $30,000. For such a nowned artists found in his possession. simple pastry brings billions of dollars About ChinaInsight simple pastry, it has become obvious to While the gift-sharing of the holi- into the economy every year. This year, ChinaInsight is a monthly English language the Chinese that these cakes are not just days exemplifies generosity and benevo- Xi Jinping’s policies have made a dent newspaper fostering business and cultural harmony between China and the U.S. for sharing with the family. lence of the holidays, the corporate and in the industry: sales have dropped by Compared to western tradition, the political indulgences build somewhat of almost 12 percent compared to 2012. ChinaInsight is a Member of The Minnesota Moon Festival carries many similarities a dark twist to the season. Many of the Though many of China’s citizens are Chapter of the Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA). to Christmas and Thanksgiving. Lan- bribes and corruption are for corporate noting a holiday cheer that is returning to its roots, they eagerly await whether terns are often lit at night, activities are means, business owners paying off Submissions & the mooncake crackdown will mean a provided for the children, and prayers police and watchdog groups who were Correspondence to ancestors all revolve around the har- elected to counter the growing number better regulated consumer market in the ChinaInsight welcomes guest articles monious unity of family and the hope of counterfeit and illegal practices are near future. u and letters to the editor. Correspondence should be addressed to: for longevity and fertility. The sharing threatening the lives and well-being of food and gifts play a major role for of the citizens who are preparing for Editor, ChinaInsight 6520 South Bay Drive Minnetrista, MN 55331 Tel: 952-472-4757 Fax: 952 472-6665 ChinaInsight Insight [email protected] SUBSCRIPTION ORDER FORM Letters to the editor become the property Guaranteed of ChinaInsight and may be edited for 10 issues - $24 for a domestic subscription and $40 length and published. Articles will not be for international. Please make check payable to YES you could run to the published without the express consent of the author. ChinaInsight, 6520 South Bay Drive, Minnetrista, store and pick up a copy, MN 55331 but did you know you can NOTICE TO READERS: The views have ChinaInsight delivered expressed in articles are the author’s and Name______directly to your mailbox? not neccesarily those of ChinaInsight. Address______Authors may have a business relationship A subscription costs a with the companies or businesses they City/State/Zip______discuss. Phone______mere $24 and brings a full year (10 issues) of new Email______understanding about today’s Company______China, from language to Title______business opportunities. Copyright 2013 ChinaInsight, Inc. All Rights Reserved. www.chinainsight.info opinion OCTOBER 2013 > PAGE 3

Anthony James, staff cartoonist Japan stands in the way of China-U.S. relations

Commentary, Aug 20, 2013, George Koo, New America Media tivities of Unit 731 were never exposed to the limelight of a military tribunal and prosecution. Thanks to Ishii and America com- plicity, members of his research team died of natural causes and never felt the sting of having to explain their hei- nous activity and the disgrace of public condemnation; some even walked tall in their post-war careers as respected members of society. The bombing of Hiroshima and Na- gasaki that ended the war was just a bit too soon for Ishii. He was experimenting with the use of high altitude balloons to drop germ-laden bombs on the west coast of the U.S. Had he succeeded, America would surely not be so ready to forget Japan’s role in the war. President Obama likes to tell despots that they are standing on the wrong side How will Japan’s recent policy shift that were inserted to remind the people the aggressor. of history. In siding with Japan on any to offensive weaponry affect the U.S.- of Japan of the atrocities committed by Unit 731 was the secret research sta- disputes Japan has with China, the U.S. China ongoing dialogue between their their military--hideous acts of inhumani- tion located in the outskirts of Harbin is clearly on the wrong side and perhaps respective defense chiefs? ty that repelled the people in Asia. At the where live human beings were subject the blind side of history. General Chang Wanquan’s visit to end of WWII, Japan was to never again to injections of toxins such as bubonic Hard to know if General Chang the US this week as minister of defense mount offensive military capabilities plague and anthrax and then cut open would have the opportunity to discuss is the latest of a continuing series of but limit to pacifist self-defense forces. while alive to monitor progress of the with the Secretary Hagel of the sig- exchanges between China and the U.S, The Abe government picked August ravages of the diseases—all without nificantly different attitude about Japan aimed at building trust between the mili- 6, the anniversary of the atomic bomb- administration of anesthesia. Use of an- between China and the U.S. America has tary of both countries. Both sides agree ing of Hiroshima, to launch a new super esthesia, the reasoning went, may distort been quick to forgive Japan but China that sharing information and discussing destroyer, named “Izumo,” big enough the test results of the trial weapons of could not because Japan has yet to own issues of common interests will enhance to launch helicopters and, with a bit of germ warfare. up to their role in the war and make a understanding and cooperation. modification, fighter planes. The deck The victims of these biological heart felt apology and amends. Whether meeting on common was festooned with the war flag of the experiments were not just Chinese ci- China and the U.S. were wartime grounds will lead to recognition and old imperial army and the helicopters vilians but included American POWs allies when Japan was the mortal en- mutual respect for the differences still were emblazoned with the number 731. captured from the Bataan death march emy. Japan should not now become an outstanding between the two counties Much of the symbolism associated in Philippines. In the waning days of the obstacle to China and the U.S. becoming remains unanswered. Moreover, aside with this launch went over the heads of War, most of the biological testing camp partners to world peace. u from existing differences that have the American public but certainly had was destroyed. bedeviled the bilateral relations, a new the desired affect by arousing the anger General Shiro Ishii, the commandant development has come to the fore: Ja- of the people in China. of Unit 731, secretly negotiated with pan’s pronounced shift to militarism. Japan’s official position has always the American occupation force to turn Dr. George Koo is a retired inter- The newly elected Abe government, been to point to Hiroshima as a reminder over the research data in exchange for national business consultant and a elected on a platform of nationalism, is to the Japanese people that they were escaping from prosecution for himself contributor to New America Media. threatening to revise Japan’s constitu- victims of WWII and American aggres- and his research team. The Americans tion and disavow the peace covenants sion, contrary to the idea that Japan was accepted Ishii’s terms and thus the ac- PAGE 4 > OCTOBER 2013 business, trade www.chinainsight.info End to QE to ‘split’ emerging markets Sept. 14, 2013, Commentary, Wei Tian, China Daily

The United States plan to taper its a financial crisis. between China and other emerging experts said. quantitative easing policy will “split” But when it comes to China, Li markets might even widen in the near Li suggested that the process won’t emerging economies, with some — said it would sustain only a mild direct future, because China’s reforms are in- lead to another financial crisis similar including China — better-placed to impact from QE tapering — and there creasing confidence in its future, while to the one seen in 1997 to 1998 in Asia, withstand the change while others will might even be a slight positive effect. other economies face uncertainties. For because the world is better prepared face currency depreciation and capital “It will be good news for the ren- example, he said, in India there is even with the guidance of the International flight, experts said. minbi, which can finally be freed from more uncertainty, and it’s very compli- Monetary Fund and the World Bank. “QE tapering by the US will be the appreciation pressure,” he said. cated to do business. Zhu Min, deputy managing director single biggest uncertainty for the world “China will be largely immune to “If the current leadership in India can of the IMF who was also present at he economy,” Li Daokui, a professor at Ts- the impact due to its sustained current- step up and undertake the same kinds summit, agreed. inghua University and former adviser to account surplus, low foreign debt, of reforms that the leadership here (in “The debt positions of emerging China’s central bank, said at the World huge exchange reserves, high savings China) is talking about, we’ll be very markets are in much better shape com- Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting of and capital controls,” Lu Ting, China bullish about India, and I think compa- pared with 1998, and the strong net the New Champions 2013, known as economist at Merrill Lynch, has written nies will too,” he said. positions in terms of foreign exchange Summer Davos, in Dalian, Liaoning in an article. “Investors have been skittish since reserves are enough to withstand the province, on Friday. That said, Li pointed out that QE 2009, and any capital flow changes crisis. The US Federal Reserve has signaled tapering will “further split emerging would make them nervous. But China’s “If there is a short-term crisis in it may soon slow its $85 billion-a-month economies”. more insulated because it’s a more in- emerging economies, the IMF will purchasing program of government He added that the concept of the ternal financial system.” surely lend a helping hand,” he said, bonds and mortgage-backed securities, BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China But on balance, he said, growth in adding that emerging economies are still which started in December. and South Africa) may vanish, leav- developed economies also helps the a major global growth engine. Li said the move would mean at ing “just China versus other emerging entire world. The US, Japan and Europe Zhu also said that China shouldn’t least $2 trillion in losses in capital mar- economies”. being on a growth trajectory supports underestimate the external impact on kets globally and lead to capital flight A poll of more than 150 top execu- exports from other countries, which will its economy, as the country is now more and currency depreciation in emerging tives at leading multinational companies also be a good thing. correlated with the global economy, and markets. by Boston Consulting Group found that “If the developed economies strug- opening its capital account may exacer- “The world economy will be full of China is still the most important market gle, it will also put a damper here or bate this impact. u drama in the next one or two years,” Li in their strategy over the next five years. there on emerging economies,” he said. said, adding that emerging economies Richard Lesser, president and chief Overall, QE tapering should not such as Brazil and India may experience executive officer of BCG, said the gap cause as much chaos as previous crises, Minnesota state exports Continues from page 1 (up 56 percent to $27 • Food waste exports (including • Demand for vehicles decreased million) and Taiwan residues from food manufacturing pro- in many countries, including to Canada, (up 33 percent to $38 cesses) jumped 18 percent to $149 mil- Mexico and Belgium, the top three million) contributed lion, with three of the top four markets markets, and particularly for passenger much of the gains. (China, Mexico and the Philippines) vehicles, parts and public transport ve- The strongest per- contributing the largest gains. hicles. u forming product areas • Demand for ores/slag/ash were medical/surgi- (down 91 percent to $23 million) and cal instruments (up mineral fuels/oils (down 86 percent to 36 percent, or $81 $31 million) plummeted due to export million, to $305 mil- trends to Canada during this period. lion). • Machinery exports dropped • International by $40 million due to decreased sales sales of beverages/ in major markets such as South Korea, the second quarters of 2012 and 2013. spirits increased 87 percent to $87 Australia, Italy and Japan. The most In particular, aircraft/spacecraft, optics/ million, mainly due to Canada, which adversely affected product segments medical goods and beverages led in accounted for 99 percent of these ex- included computers and computer parts, export gains. ports. The primary growth product was machinery for producing semiconduc- • Exports of aircraft/spacecraft denatured ethyl alcohol. tors, and harvesting/cleaning machinery. continued to grow strongly, contribut- ing the largest gains in value among all products. Exports of these goods were Minnesota Quarterly Export Statistics is the most current resource up 66 percent (or up $85 million) to available for tracking the state’s manufactured export trends and is $213 million in the second quarter of prepared for the Minnesota Trade Office (MTO) by the Department of Employment and Economic Development’s (DEED) Analysis 2013. These exports mainly consisted of and Evaluation Office civilian aircraft parts. The Netherlands (Thu-Mai Ho-Kim, 651-259-7180). Starting with the first quarter continued to be the main contributor to 2011, the quarterly and annual statistics reports primarily cover export growth ($91 million, up $89 million). data based on the Harmonized Tariff System (Schedule B), collected • Optics/Medical exports grew by the U.S. Department of Commerce (USDOC) and distributed by the Global Trade Information Services, rather than data based on the 5 percent to $852 million. Minnesota North American Industry Classification System industries (NAICS), exports of these goods have become collected by the USDOC and distributed by the World Institute of more diversified across countries, with Social and Economic Research. Thus, reports covering 2011 and the top five markets accounting for later data may not be comparable to previously published reports. All reports are available on the DEED website on the Export Statis- about half of the state’s sales. Belgium tics page (www.PositivelyMinnesota.com/Data_Publications/Data/ (up 16 percent to $96 million), Australia Export_Statistics/index.aspx). www.chinainsight.info education OCTOBER 2013 > PAGE 5 University forges new food safety partnerships with China

Source: July, 2013, Janice Bitters, Minnesota Daily

The National Center for Food Pro- director Amy Kircher. collaborate with professionals and re- five years from now.” tection and Defense, a U.S. Department Karen Everstine, a research associ- searchers from different countries each of Homeland Security center housed at ate at NCFPD, focuses her work on year, Kircher said. Celebrating 100 years the University of Minnesota, gained a Economically Motivated Adulteration, Everstine said she hopes the new The new partnership comes at an new international partner this week. or “food fraud.” partnership will offer opportunities opportune time. University President Eric Kaler She said the partnership will benefit to study how products move through It has been 100 years since the first and Li Xinshi, director-general of the her research and could help to more China’s food system. Chinese students attended the Univer- Chinese Academy of Inspection and efficiently identify threats to the food “I would love the opportunity to go sity, an anniversary the University will Quarantine, agreed to a memorandum supply. to China … and see some of their work celebrate throughout the next academic of understanding on food safety, protec- “If we are talking about bringing in firsthand,” she said. “And obviously year, Kaler said. tion and defense issues during a signing data sources that are going to help us we would offer the same opportunity It also falls on the heels of Kaler’s ceremony July 25 in the Campus Club identify something earlier, that is great,” to them.” visit to China, where he renewed part- at Coffman Union. she said. “If there is a question, … you The new memorandum dictates the nerships with other Chinese research “Particularly in this area of food can call and ask, ‘What do you think is two organizations will have annual institutions and organizations. safety, where we are very strong … this going on with this?’” meetings, alternately in China and the Li acknowledged the anniversary connection with a premier organization U.S. during his speech, adding that he hoped around food safety in China is a big deal International opportunities While the memorandum is not le- the ceremony would “open a new age for for us,” Kaler said. “I think it’ll open China isn’t NCFPD’s only interna- gally binding for either organization, it collaboration for the next 100 years.” some doors and provide opportunities tional partner. The center also works will be in place for five years unless one Kaler said signing the memorandum across the board.” with organizations in Central and South party submits a written request to end was a significant step for the Univer- The CAIQ is a public research orga- America that provide a significant por- the agreement early. sity’s partnership with China in higher nization in China that focuses on food tion of the U.S. food supply, Kircher “One of the good things about the education and scientific endeavors. inspection and protection. The Uni- said. term limit is it gives both sides a chance “We are extremely proud and very versity has been home to the NCFPD, “Knowing that we have a global to re-evaluate,” Kaler said. “And obvi- eager to continue to work with [CAIQ] which is part of the College of Veteri- food system, it is really important that ously we hope that it’s been fruitful and to tackle one of the world’s most critical nary Medicine, since 2004. we work with our collaborators and people will be eager to continue, but that public health and public safety chal- Both organizations work to prevent find partnerships around the world,” doesn’t always happen.” lenges,” he said. u and combat intentional contamination of she said. Kaler added that he would be sur- the food supply for either economic or As part of these partnerships, the prised if the University was not in “a re- terroristic reasons, said NCFPD acting NCFPD and the University host and ally enhanced relationship [with China] Smithsonian’s Freer and Sackler galleries announce new grant to preserve art of Chinese painting conservation

The Arthur M. Sackler Gallery and pathway to aspiring conservators and ity and a deep understanding of the ma- of recent scientific discoveries and best Freer Gallery of Art, the Smithsonian’s the teaching structure necessary to cre- terials—it requires both formal educa- practices from other cultures. Grace Jan, museums of Asian art, are home to the ate a new generation of master conserva- tion and several years of apprenticeship the current assistant Chinese painting only program in the U.S. that teaches tors in the field. under a senior conservator. Traditional conservator, has a graduate degree in conservators how to care for delicate “This program is crucial to the fu- conservation techniques were developed paper conservation from the Institute and invaluable Chinese paintings. The ture of Chinese painting conservation, in China over centuries and are passed of Fine Arts, New York University and museums announced today that a new creating the ideal educational climate down from generation to generation in has interned in Chinese museums and $1 million challenge grant, awarded for research, collaboration and ex- established studios. the Metropolitan Museum of Art. by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, change,” said Julian Raby, The Dame The Freer’s Department of Con- Equipped with specialty tools and will endow the position of an assistant Jillian Sackler Director of the Arthur servation and Scientific Research is materials sourced from Asia, the Freer’s Chinese painting conservator, who will M. Sackler Gallery and Freer Gallery world-renowned for the care and study Chinese Painting Conservation Studio work closely with a senior conservator of Art. “Matching this endowment will of Asian artwork, and frequently hosts performs specialized treatments onsite, in the Freer’s Department of Conserva- be an important investment in protect- conservation interns and fellows who from minor repairs to full remountings tion and Scientific Research. ing some of the most fragile treasures travel from Asia, Europe and around of rare Chinese artworks. The conserva- As a condition of the grant, the mu- in U.S. museums.” the U.S. to train with Xiangmei Gu, tors’ experience guides the decision— seum must match it with an additional While there are thousands of such the museum’s senior Chinese painting making process, such as when to clean $750,000 by 2016 in order to receive the works in U.S. museums—including conservator. Many trainees now hold a painting with water, when to perform Mellon support and endow the position. more than 2500 in the Freer and Sackler positions at prestigious institutions in local repairs and when to completely A lengthy apprenticeship period, galleries’ collections—there are only Asia and in the west. remount layers of silk, paper and starch combined with limited U.S.-based four senior Chinese painting conserva- Ms. Gu has served as a leading force adhesive. Culling from the expertise of resources and educational opportuni- tors to care for them, all of whom are in the effort to ensure the preservation different Asian and western traditions, ties, means that a shrinking number of close to retirement. of the skills and knowledge of tradi- they are also able to share best practices experts are available to care for grow- The training required to preserve tional Chinese painting conservation. with the field at large, through safe han- ing—and increasingly fragile—museum such treasures is complex, lengthy and She trained for fifteen years in China dling, display and storage workshops, collections of Chinese paintings. This highly specialized. Since treating dam- before coming to the United States in and by providing research opportunities endowment, and the mid-level position aged paintings is an extremely exacting 1987, and combines years of study in for hands-on study. u it creates, will provide both a career process—based on experience, ingenu- traditional technique with a knowledge PAGE 6 > OCTOBER 2013 celebrations www.chinainsight.info What is Double Ten Day?

Double Ten Day (雙十節) is cele- of October 10, 1911, which led to the in front of the Central Weather Bureau brated on Oct. 10. Double Ten Day is the collapse of the Qing Dynasty in China building in downtown Taipei. The other anniversary of the Wuchang Uprising ( and establishment of the Republic of two remaining F-104 aircraft were or- 武昌起義), a revolt that led to a decla- China on January 1, 1912. dered to look for the crashed aircraft ration of independence from the central As a result of the Chinese Civil War, and accidentally collided and crashed government by Wuchang and several the Government of the Republic of in Tucheng City, Taipei County (now other provinces in China in 1911. China lost control of mainland China New Taipei City) killing both pilots. The Wuchang Uprising led to the and relocated to Taiwan in 1949. The The parade was not held again until Xinhai Revolution (辛亥革命) in which National Day is now mainly celebrated Students holding Sun Yatsen placards 1975. When Chen Shui-bian became revolutionary forces overthrew the Qing in Taiwan, but is also celebrated by during the 1965 Double Ten celebration. President, the parade was not held until Dynasty, ending more than 2,000 years some Overseas Chinese. 2007 and then it was entitled a “Celebra- of dynastic rule in China and ushering tion Drill” and not a traditional military in the Republican Era (1911-1949). Celebration in Taiwan parade. Since Ma Ying-jeou became The revolutionaries were upset over president, one parade has been held on government corruption, the encroach- the centenary celebrations of the Double ment of foreign countries into China, Tenth Day. and resentment over Manchu rule over Han Chinese. Double Tenth Day The Xinhai Revolution ended with October 10 Emperor Puyi being ousted from the Double Tenth Day is a national Forbidden City in 1912. The Xinhai Republic of China Army Tanks in front to holiday in Taiwan to commemorate Revolution led to the establishment of the Presidential Office during the 1966 the Chinese Revolution of October 10, the Republic of China (ROC) in Janu- Flag of the Republic of China Double Ten celebration. 1911. The revolt marked the end of the ary 1912. Ching, or Qing, Dynasty that had been After World War II, The ROC gov- established in 1644 by the Manchus, and ernment lost control of the Chinese it led to the founding of the Republic of mainland to the Chinese Communist China on January 1, 1912. Party in the Chinese Civil War (1946- It took the Ching rulers several 1950). In 1949, the ROC government re- decades to complete their military treated to Taiwan, where its constitution conquest of China and by 1683, when has remained in force to the present day. Taiwan became part of the empire, they governed all of China. The Ching Who Celebrates Double Ten Day? Generalissimo and former ROC Presi- Court’s period of glory was in the time Nearly all Taiwanese have the day dent Chiang Kai-shek presiding over the Ma Ying-jeou during the 2010 Double of the first three emperors, but after off from work on Double Ten Day in 1966 Double Ten celebrations. Ten celebration. 1795 the court began a slow decline. By Taiwan. In mainland China, Double Ten the end of the 19th century, Japan and Day is referred to as the Anniversary for In Taiwan, the official celebration the Western powers had reduced China the Wuchang Uprising (武昌起义纪念 begins with the raising of the flag of the to what SUN YAT-SEN called a “sub- 日) and memorial celebrations are often Republic of China in front of thePresi- colony,” the court was weak and corrupt, held. In Hong Kong, small parades and dential Building, along with a public and a group of national capitalists was celebrations are held though they have singing of the National Anthem of the fomenting uprisings. Sun Yat-sen was not been as lavish since the transfer Republic of China. It is then followed one of the leaders of this nationalistic of Hong Kong’s sovereigntyfrom the by celebrations in front of the Presi- group; he was a Jeffersonian figure United Kingdom to China July 1, 1997. dential Building; from time to time, a who wanted a Western-style govern- Overseas Chinese living in cities with military parade may occur. Festivities Cadets from the ROC Military Academy ment with a parliament and separation large Chinatowns also host Double Ten also include many aspects of traditional on march during the 2011 Double Ten of powers. Day parades. Chinese and/or Taiwanese culture, such celebration. In October 1911, when a revolt in as the lion dance and drum teams, and Wuchang (in the province of Hubei) How Do People Celebrate Double cultural features coming from Taiwan- In the past, the Military of the Re- succeeded, supportive uprisings broke Ten Day in Taiwan? ese aborigines are integrated into the public of China has traditionally put on out in other cities. The fall of the Man- In Taiwan, Double Ten Day begins display in recent years. Later in the a military parade. During this parade, chus followed. Sun Yat-sen, who was in with a flag-raising ceremony in front of day, the President of the Republic of troops and equipment are marched Denver, Colo., at the time of the October the Presidential Building. After the flag China would address the country and past a reviewing platform in front of revolt, returned to Shanghai and was is raised, the National Anthem of the fireworks displays are held throughout the Presidential Building. Typically, elected provisional president of the new Republic of China is sung. the major cities of the island. In 2009, foreign ambassadors, military officers, republic. He is thought of today as the A parade from the Presidential all government sponsored festivities for and other representatives and dignitaries father of modern China, and his birthday Building to the Sun Yat-sen Memorial the Double Ten Day were cancelled, are invited to view the parade. on Nov. 12 is also a national holiday in is held. The parade used to be a military and the money intended for the festivals The parade has been held intermit- Taiwan. parade but now government and civic (NT$ 70 million) were reallocated for tently during the period of the Republic For several weeks before Double organizations are included. Afterward, reconstruction of the damage done by of China on Taiwan. The first military Tenth Day, the plaza in front of the Taiwan’s president gives a speech. The Typhoon Morakot. parade was held on October 10, 1936 Presidential Office Building in Taipei, day concludes with fireworks. at Nanjing. The military parade on Taiwan, is illuminated. Here there are The National Day of the Repub- National Day Military Parade October 10, 1949 was the first public massive parades and rallies on the lic of China (traditional Chinese: 國 military parade held in Taiwan with holiday, displays of martial arts, folk 慶日; simplified Chinese: 国庆日; Chen Cheng serving as the Grand Re- dancing, and other cultural activities. pinyin:Guóqìng Rì[1]), also referred to view Officer. The 1964 National Day dazzling display of fireworks is pre- as Double Ten Day or Double Tenth parade was struck by tragedy when a sented over an island in the middle of Day[2] (traditional Chinese: 雙十 low flying airforce F-104 Starfighter the Tanshui River. u 節;simplified Chinese:双十节 ; pinyin: fighter aircraft struck a Broadcasting Shuāngshíjié), is the national day of the Corporation of China tower, causing Editor’s Note: Republic of China (ROC). It commemo- the plane’s fuel tank to fall and kill three Much of the material for this article rates the start of the Wuchang Uprising The 1950 Double Ten celebration. people including a woman and her baby was obtained from Wikipedia. 1070607_09542

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1070607_09542 10x15 bw.indd 1 9/5/13 10:20 AM PAGE 8 > OCTOBER 2013 business www.chinainsight.info Shanghai, open for business By Pat Welsh, contributor

It is recognized as the world’s busiest, nies, to accelerate the development of surpassing Singapore, with more than business-use cars and to promote the 2000 container ships departing the port auto parts and car service industries. each month. The main overseas markets Shanghai is also a leading producer of in 2011 were Germany, Hong Kong, ethylene, plastics, microcomputers and Japan, the Netherlands, South Korea and mobile phones. the U.S. Japan is the leading source of Shanghai has been experiencing imports, followed by Germany, the U.S., industrial restructuring over the last Taiwan and South Korea. China’s cabi- decade. Low value-added manufactur- net recently approved a plan to establish ing has decreased, particularly in textile the nation’s first free trade zone on 29 and heavy-equipment manufacturing, square kilometers (11 square miles) in which have relocated to areas outside Shanghai. This zone will have looser the city. Nonetheless, Shanghai has rules on matters such as interest rates made significant progress in developing and business licenses. This is part of its high-tech industries, such as com- Premier Li Keqiang’s drive to sustain puter, telecommunications equipment China’s growth by shifting the economy and integrated circuit manufacturing. more toward services and consumption. The technology areas with the most Shanghai is a major location for output value are electronic computers foreign direct investment. About 300 and office equipment. Six key advanced of the world’s top 500 enterprises have industries account for about two-thirds Shanghai Pearl Tower invested in Shanghai. These include GE, of Shanghai’s gross industrial output in Shanghai literally means “going up na’s largest financial center. Under the Siemens, Mitsubishi and Hitachi. 2011: electronic information devices, to the sea.” It is China’s largest city and supervision of the China Securities Most of the foreign investors in automobile, petrochemical, fine steel, home to more than 23 million people. As Regulatory Commission, the Shanghai Shanghai originate from Germany, electrical equipment and biomedicine. such, it is now one of China’s four pro- Stock Exchange has become the world’s Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, and the Barring the unforeseen, Shanghai vincial-level municipalities. Contained sixth largest by market capitalization, U.S. Shanghai’s cosmopolitan character, promises to become the world’s largest within this municipality are 16 districts exceeding USD$2.3 trillion as of Janu- sophisticated and affluent consumers, business center. and one county. Eight of these districts ary 2012. Recent changes in the regula- and a highly skilled and educated labor Source: Bulletin Report of the Shanghai lie within Puxi (Huangpu West), also tions have allowed foreign firms to raise force have made the city very attrac- International Port (Group) Co. Ltd.u known as “Shanghai Proper.” To the capital in the Shanghai Stock Exchange tive to foreign investors. Another fac- u east lie Pudong (Huangpu East) and if certain criteria are met. seven other suburban and Chongming In 2005, China’s central bank, the county that surround “Shanghai Proper.” Peoples’ Bank of China, moved its mar- Shanghai is also the city where Madame ket operational headquarters to Shanghai Mao (Jiang Qing) began her movie ca- from Beijing to be closer to the “action,” reer. It is also where, on July 23, 1921, further strengthening Shanghai’s posi- the Chinese Communist Party was tion as China’s leading financial center. born. And, Shanghai was also where the According to the Shanghai Statistical Gang of Four was headquartered during Yearbook 2012, at the end of 2011 the disastrous Cultural Revolution of there were 1,048 financial institutions, 1966-1976. including banks, insurance companies From the early Qing dynasty through and securities companies, 173 of which the late 1940s, Shanghai was ruled by were invested by foreign entities such gangs, especially, the Green Gang Triad, as the Bank of America and Citibank. which was led by some of the most col- Shanghai is heavily banked to accom- orful characters in modern Chinese his- modate the growing number of service tory. Digging deeper into their activities and industrial businesses located there. reveals a world of intrigue, deception Located on an estuary of the Yangtze and depravity, which will be covered in River, Shanghai has become China’s a follow-up article next month. busiest container port with 125 berths Shanghai’s Pudong district is Chi- and a total quay length of 20 kilometers. China pavilion at Shanghai Expo 2010

tor attracting investors are Shanghai’s modernized infrastructure that includes About Pat Welsh two international airports, port facilities, modern highways, and updated sewer, Welsh has worked in banking and water and electrical utilities. trade development with Asia Pa- In 2011, 58 percent of Shanghai’s gross industrial output of USD$305 bil- cific nations for more than a decade. lion was attributed to service industries. By invitation of the Georgia State Shanghai plays a key role in China’s Department, he taught Chinese in heavy industries, which accounted for Georgia high schools from 1986- USD$177billion or 78 percent of the gross industrial output in 2011. China’s 2007. His deep interest in the Chinese largest state-owned steel manufacturer, culture and his fluency in Chinese and the Baosteel Group, and the Fosun Japanese have helped him establish Group, one of China’s largest private strong personal relationships with steelmakers, are both located in Shang- hai. Auto manufacturing is another im- top Chinese officials. His insight portant industry and there are four goals into Chinese cultural and economic for China’s auto industry: to develop affairs is enriched by these personal China’s own car brands, to cooperate relationships. with Japanese and Korean car compa- Shanghai Container Port www.chinainsight.info food, events OCTOBER 2013 > PAGE 9 Double ninth festival treat: Double Ninth Nine-Layer Cake By Shilyn Chang, staff writer cleansing powers. Add the white sugar in with the smaller Another common practice is making mixture, and the brown sugar with the and eating a “double ninth cake.” This larger one. Stir each until the sugar is cake varies in different regions of China. dissolved. In northern mainland China, a fluffy rice 2. Line the bottom of a square or cake called songgao is popular; in south- round pan (that fits in your steamer) with ern China and Taiwan, a glutinous rice parchment paper, and spray with oil. Put cake made of layers of flavors is more the pan in the steamer and raise the heat prevalent. Since my mother is from to high. Hainan, I personally have a preference 3. Pour ½ cup of the brown sugar for the glutinous cake, which is full of mixture into the pan. Rotate the pan flavor and has a wonderful texture very around so the bottom of the pan is different from what people would nor- evenly coated. Cover the steamer and mally deem as cake-like. It is also much cook for two-three minutes, until the easier to make than the other cake, and surface is solid. seems very appropriate to celebrate the 4. Pour six tablespoons of the Most everyone is familiar with the the negative, darker, and more feminine Double Ninth festival since you can use white sugar mixture on top of the brown yin yang symbol—the circle composed side. These denominations are assigned nine layers to make the cake. Below is layer, and again rotate the pan so the of a black and white half with each to most everything—even numbers, the recipe for a basic nine layer cake coating is even. Cover the steamer and half containing a dot of the other color. with odd numbers represented as yang. (you’ll need a steamer.) Give it a try— cook for another couple minutes. Repeat Most everyone also knows that this The ninth day of the ninth lunar it’s super simple and only requires four these steps until you have nine alternat- symbol is a representation of the an- month, which is October 13 this year, ingredients! ing brown and white layers. (Note: make cient Chinese idea of balance. The two is seen as having too much yang, and is Ingredients: sure the pan inside the steamer is level colors represent dualities that exist and deemed as dangerous. In order to ward • 2 ½ cups long-grain rice flour so your layers are even.) work together to create harmony in the off danger, Chinese people celebrate the (found at Chinese grocery stores) 5. Cover the steamer and cook world: dark and light, life and death, Double Ninth Festival, during which • 2 ½ cups cold, filtered water the entire cake over medium-high for man and woman, etc. The Chinese they practice various rituals such as • 6 tablespoons sugar about 15 minutes. Add more water to the believe that if there is too much of one drinking chrysanthemum wine, climb- • ½ cup brown sugar steamer if necessary. Turn off the heat, or the other, things get out of balance ing high mountains (because what bet- Directions: and let the cake cool to room tempera- and there is chaos. Yin represents the ter way is there to avoid danger), and 1. Stir the flour and water together ture to make it easier to remove from positive, lighter, more masculine side carry sprigs of dogwood as it as well until the mixture is smooth. Pour 1 ½ the pan. Cut, serve, and enjoy! u of this relationship, and yang represents as chrysanthemum is believed to have cups of the mixture into a separate bowl. Contemporary Prints from Central Taiwan on display in Minneapolis

With approximately 2.6 million peo- with the addition of traditional Chinese away the tumultuous, messy past and ple, Taichung is Taiwan’s third-largest decorative elements. replace it with a bright, modern future. city. Home to the National Taiwan Mu- Max Chang’s work captures the rich On a lighter note, several of the art- seum of Fine Arts, several universities, architectural history of the region as a ists employ whimsy and fantasy as a art centers, galleries and a myriad of im- way of documenting and celebrating reaction against the seriousness of the portant cultural and historic landmarks. it, even as continual development and political and cultural situation in Tai- In contrast to the global character of the modernization demolish the old to make wan. Dark yet playful forms populate capital city Taipei, the central region’s way for the new. Taichung has under- the prints of Zi-wei Hong, while Rui-zhi cities foster a truly Taiwanese creative gone rapid growth and urban develop- Xu’s beautifully surreal landscapes play ethos, and Taichung and nearby Miaoli out wild narratives populated by people are particular catalysts for creativity and animals alike. in the area - large enough to provide In many of these prints, we find the opportunities and creative stimuli, but expression of Taiwan’s complex ten- small enough to foster community spirit. sions between embracing its complex The region is a place where ‘Minnesota history and a desire to move forward. Date: Through Nov. 23, 2013 Nice’ meets urban Asia. Location: Highpoint Center for Print- Much of the work in this exhibit Featured artists: making, 912 West Lake Street, Minne- reflects tension, ambivalence, and ques- Max Chang, Hanny Chao, Ying-ying apolis, MN 55408, 612-871-1326 tions about the complex relationship Gallery hours: Chen, ,Yu-chen Chen, Zi-wei Hong, between Taiwan and mainland China. Lynn Hsieh, Ting-yu Huang, Yu-chi Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Surrounded by the massive cultural in- Huang, Zi-yun Huang, Chun-ying Kao, Saturday, noon–4 p.m. & by appoint- fluences of America, China and Japan, ment many of these prints suggest a new path Yuan-hsiang Li, Chia-ying Lin, Chao- Please call ahead for group tours or forged in the spaces between. A post- long Ni, Meng-yao Pan, Jon Renzella, large groups. modern, globalist ambivalence plays Zhi-wei Su, Jessica Tao, Li-wen Wang, out in Jessica Tao’s piece, “Play, Nezhu, Yu-ting Wei, Leanie Wessels, Rui-zhi “Contemporary Prints from Central Inexhaustible,” in which the traditional Xu u Taiwan” features prints from 21 artists Chinese deity travels to America to living and working in Taichung and Mi- watch Jeremy Lin play basketball. He aoli, Taiwan. This exhibit is curated by carries with him all manner of Western Jon Renzella, a former Highpoint Studio items, many of which were produced in Prints from the “Contemporary Prints intern and Jerome Emerging Printmaker, ment for the past 20 years with no end in China. The style of the print references sight. It almost seems an attempt to wash from Central Taiwan” exhibition. who now lives and works in Taiwan. Japanese and American comic books PAGE 10 > OCTOBER 2013 culture www.chinainsight.info What’s the occasion? Double Ninth Festival / Chóng Yáng Jié (重陽節) By Elaine Dunn, staff writer

river monster rises 親) these cakes is either chrysanthemum up from the river From afar I know, o brothers, where wine or tea. Why the chrysanthemum? and wreaks havoc in the hills we’d be (遙知兄弟登 The chrysanthemum is in full bloom with the villagers in 高處) this time of the year. Its abundance and the vicinity. After Each wearing a spray of dogwood, easy access makes it ideal for preparing Hengjing’s parents all but the one away. (遍插茱萸少 homemade tea and wine. Chinese also fell ill and died after 一人) believe the chrysanthemum has cleans- one of the monster’s ing qualities. It has been used in herbal annual appearances, Customs of Chóng Yáng Jié: as- medicine for ages to prevent chills. he decided to rid his cending heights and “gāo” Women used to stick a chrysanthemum village of the river The main activity of this autumn flower in their hair or hang its branches monster curse once festival is an outing to a high place, be- on windows or doors to ward off evil. and for all. Hengjing stowing an alternate name upon the day The prominence of the chrysanthe- sought help from - “Height Ascending Festival (登高節).” mum is also based on another folktale a powerful Taoist Not only does taking one’s family to whose protagonist is Tao Yuanming (陶 monk. He studied high grounds protect them from disaster, 渊明), also known as Tao Qian (陶謙). long and hard, learn- the trip to a high place also symbolizes Tao was a low-ranking official born in ing everything the the aspiration to attain career and social A.D. 365 to a poor family. He was well Taoist master had status advancement , i.e., climbing the educated in the classics of Confucian- Man on Mountain to offer. On the eighth day of the ninth proverbial ladder. ism and Taoism, and endured a 10-year lunar month, the Taoist master told The typical food associated with career in government service. How- When is Chong Yang Jié? Hengjing it was time for him to go back Double Ninth Festival / Chóng Yáng ever, extremely unhappy and humiliated Labor Day has come and gone and to his village because the monster will Jié is the rice cake. “High” in Chinese when he was “instructed” to prepare the oppressive summer heat is gradu- rise from the river on the ninth. He asked is pronounced “gāo (高),” a homonym elaborately for a performance review. ally being replaced by an autumn chill Hengjing to have all the villagers put a for rice cake (糕). Therefore, Chinese Instead of being judged on the merit of - the perfect time for picnics and hikes. sprig of dogwood on their arms and to prepare and eat rice cakes on this day. his service, he was expected to curry Therefore, it is no surprise that there is hold a cup of chrysanthemum wine in Called the Double Ninth, Chóng Yáng favours from his superiors, which was a Chinese festival, the Double Ninth their hands as they ascend the hills for or “hūa” (flower) cake, it dates back against his sense of ethics. He promptly Festival, also known as Chóng Yáng the day to protect themselves from the to the Zhou Dynasty and comes in quit his job and retired to a simple life Jié (重陽節), that promotes outings to river monster. many forms. The most popular one is of poetry and farming. Tao loved the higher grounds. On the ninth, Hengjing led the vil- a two-layered steamed cake made with chrysanthemum and grew many species As the name implies, Double Ninth lagers up the mountain. They all stood on his farm. Word of Festival takes place on the ninth day of with a cup of chrysanthemum wine in his unyielding ethics the ninth lunar month, usually around hand and a sprig of dogwood tied to their spread and with it, the October in the Gregorian calendar. In arms, waiting for the river monster to popularity of the chry- 2013, it falls on Oct. 13. appear. As predicted by the Taoist mas- santhemum. The number nine in Chinese nu- ter, the river monster appeared at noon. Not only is Chóng merology is a yang (as opposed to However, before it could do anything Yáng Jié a time for yin) number, positive and masculine malicious, the strong scent of the dog- family get-togethers. It in character. Its Chinese name, Chóng wood and chrysanthemum wine stopped is also the last of three Yáng Jié literally means “repeat (chóng) it in its track. Taking advantage of its annual festivals dur- yáng festival (jié)!” For the Chinese, disorientated state, Hengjing plunged ing which the Chinese a day with double dose of the potent the sword the Taoist master had given honor and remember yang energy is considered imbalanced him into the monster and killed it. their ancestors, the sac- and potentially dangerous. Therefore, Steamed Gao From that day forward, the Chinese rifices they made and the hardships they a slew of preventive measures need to have celebrated the Double Ninth Fes- glutinous rice flour with nuts and ju- underwent. Often, destinations of family be taken. And there is quite a variety of tival with outings to the hills, chrysan- jube filling. Gingko seeds, pine nuts or outings are to visit and clean the tombs “antidotes” available. themum wine, dogwood, and cake(s)! pomegranate seeds decorate the top in of their ancestors. Food offerings such The prevalent use of the dogwood the image of the chrysanthemum flower. as suckling pig, fruit and Chóng Yáng A Chinese Lot on Double Ninth is captured by the A second version that is difficult to find cake are popular. Burning incense and What’s the story behind this festival? great Tang Dynasty poet Wang Wei ( outside of China is the typical nine-layer joss sticks at the tombs is also practiced. Just like Lot from the Old Testament 王維) in his “Thinking of my Brothers cake made with non-sticky rice flour. who escaped the destruction of Sodom East of the Mountains on the Ninth Day It is so delicate that it’s supposed to Superstitions of Chóng Yáng Jié and Gomorrah by taking to the hills, of the Ninth Moon,” as translated by melt on one’s tongue. Two batters, one In some parts of China, a daughter Chinese also gather their families for Andrew W.F. Wong (Huang Hongfa) flavored with brown sugar and one with who has been married for three years outings to the hills on Chóng Yáng Jié in May 2009: white sugar, are steamed in alternating is not allowed to return to her parents’ to avoid bad luck and catastrophe. All alone in a strange land, a lonely layers and stacked nine (what else?) house on this day because of an old Legend has it that during the Chinese stranger am I (獨在異鄉為異客) layers high. This brown and white lay- saying, “if a woman returns to her par- Eastern Han Dynasty (A.D. 25-220), Thoughts of my kindred redouble on ered “gāo” is typical consumed in the a young man named Hengjing (桓景) every festive day (每逢佳節倍思 southern coastal regions and Taiwan. lived near the Nu River. Each year, a The beverage of choice to go with Continues on next page www.chinainsight.info culture OCTOBER 2013 > PAGE 11 What’s the occasion? Continues from page 10

is not allowed to return to her par- On a parallel note, the Chinese Gov- ents’ house on this day because of an old ernment noting the ballooning aging saying, “if a woman returns to her par- population, declared the Double Ninth ents’ house to spend the Double Ninth Festival / Chóng Yáng Jié as Seniors’ Festival, her mother-in-law and mother Day in 1989. Why did they pick this will die.” Moreover, there are seasonal day? The number nine is pronounced taboos to contend with. For example, “jiu,” which sounds like forever (久). there’s the age-old belief that “when it Therefore, “jiu-jiu” represents longev- thunders in autumn, people will reap ity. blighted grains.” Furthermore, people On this day, families are encouraged also fear thunder when winter begins, to organize activities to pay respect to as there is the saying that goes, “when the elderly, and express their wishes it thunders, nine of ten cow sheds will of health and happiness to all seniors. be empty,” meaning that the livestock Government and neighborhood units will die. plan outings for those who have retired from their posts. Modern interpretation of Double For you urban folks too busy or Ninth Festival: day for the elderly lazy to take your family on a hike on How many of you know about Na- Oct. 13, be sure to have some cakes tional Grandparents Day? Not many, I around to satisfy the height / career / bet! President Jimmy Carter signed into social status ascension element of the law in 1979 to honor grandparents on festival. And while you’re at it, be sure the first Sunday after Labor Day. The to wear a (chrysanthemum) flower in proclamation states the objective is to your hair! u strengthen family values by encourag- ing grandparents to pass on family his- tory and traditions. PAGE 12 > OCTOBER 2013 travel www.chinainsight.info Concerted care for the Dunhuang culture Source: Jul 22, 2013, Tang Shubiao & Li Guowen, China Today

plain to see from two photos Fan according to Fan. As mud is their main showed us. They are both of a mural on substance, they swell under humidity the north wall of Cave 285 taken within and shrink after drying. This process a 100-year period. The first, taken by causes flaws and blights. The cliff rein- French sinologist Paul Pelliot in 1908, forcement project is expected to reduce is of a more or less complete mural with the risk of both landslides and rainwater easily identifiable figures. The second, infiltration. taken in 2002, shows how the central The Dunhuang Academy has worked part is peeling and the figures are too with the Getty Research Institute and the faded to decipher. Cold and Arid Regions Environmental Of the proposals Fan has raised, one and Engineering Research Institute, is a complex project called “three lines Chinese Academy of Sciences, on of defense.” It consists of cliff reinforce- controlling sand storms. They have hit ment, construction of a plank path and on a complex system comprising high complex protection from sand storms. nylon fences on the cliff and a psam- The National Development and Reform mophyte belt to repel sand. They have Restoring murals in Cave 85 in May 2005 Commission approved the project in also established grids of cotton stalks December 2007. All sub-projects, other and wheat straws to fix the sand, and After a trial opening upon its com- to conserve this UNESCO heritage site than the tourism center, passed the ac- constructed a drip irrigation system and pletion at year-end, the Dunhuang while giving visitors the chance to see it, ceptance inspection last January. water pipes. After 20 years sand storms Mogao Grottoes Tourist Center will only 70 caves are open to tourists. More A native of humid Shanghai, Fan in the Mogao Grottoes area decreased open to the public next May, Fan Jinshi, routes are organized at high season, Jinshi found it difficult to adapt to 75 percent, reducing erosion of the cliff, director of the Dunhuang Academy of each including representative caves of Dunhuang’s arid climate. “It’s so dry murals and painted sculptures. China, told China Today in an interview different eras. here, with an annual rainfall of only 30 The security and monitoring system, on April 8. When it comes into operation, the millimeters,” she said. “I never imag- however, failed to meet today’s de- As a member of the National Com- tourist service center will provide ined that the caves could suffer from mands. The new security project, initiat- mittee of the Chinese People’s Political visitors with detailed information on water seepage.” The cliffs of Mingsha ed in July 2009, entails a more advanced Consultative Conference, Ms Fan has the Dunhuang culture. Its dome and Mountain are glutenite, which means technological security system. Covering raised several proposals on the conser- digital theaters will also show them the that rain water penetrates minute cracks all caves and their priceless artifacts, it vation and utilization of Dunhuang – caves in authentic detail, so minimizing and gra-dually seeps behind the murals. pinpoints the specific location of alarms oasis city and main stop on the historical time they spend within them. This will Water infiltration within the cliffs is triggered by both images and sounds. Silk Road. Building a tourist center was relieve pressure on Fan to conserve this the main culprit of the murals’ maladies, It also includes micro-monitoring of one of them. precious heritage.

Conservation versus Utilization Onerous Task Enabling more people to appreciate The new tourist center may reduce Dunhuang’s ancient artworks while at human damage, but cannot halt the re- the same time conserving and protecting lentless course of erosion. them is among Fan’s deepest concerns. The Mogao Grottoes are located on a Massive overcrowding during peak cliff on the east side of Mingsha Moun- tourist season exerts huge pressure on tain, which extends for 1,700 meters. her. After lengthy investigations and First built in AD 366, the grottoes were research, the conclusions of the Dun- under construction for an entire millen- huang Academy, in cooperation with nium. They reached an immense scale the LA-based Getty Research Institute in the 14th century. There are now 492 and the Australian Heritage Council, caves that house murals covering 45,000 are that the Mogao Grottoes can ac- square meters and 2,415 painted clay commodate a maximum 3,000 visitors sculptures. Cave 17, discovered by the a day. During the 2012 week-long Na- Taoist Wang in the early 20th century, tional Day holiday, however, as many is a repository for more than 50,000 A guide explains to visitors the importance of the cave for preserving Buddhist as 18,660 visited the grottoes each day, ancient documents and artworks. The temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide cultural exchanges Ji Xianlin said that Fan said. They had time only to hear a Mogao Grottoes comprise the world’s and the number of visitors in the caves. Dunhuang is in China, but Dunhuan- brief introduction in front of the caves largest extant shrine of Buddhist art. The system thus constitutes a scientific gology is worldwide. Fan agrees that before entering and looking around for They have engendered a specific dis- base for cave and tourist management. specialists in Europe, the U.S. and Japan a minute or two. Most of their time was cipline – Dunhuangology – that entails have all contributed to the development spent waiting in line. research on the Mogao documents and Strengthen Basic Research of Dunhuangology, but maintains that Moisture and carbon dioxide ema- grotto art. The grottoes were designated The guides at Dunhuang and the China has achieved the most. nating from tourists has direct, nega- a UNESCO World Heritage Site in research they have carried out are The Dunhuang Academy carries out tive impact on the fragile colors of the 1987. crucial to tourists’ appreciation of the conservation, research, promotion and caves’ centuries-old murals and painted Blights, however, like hollowing, grottoes. They explain grotto culture, management of the Mogao Grottoes, sculptures. And owing to limited space, peeling, flaking, discoloring and mil- the historical background of murals the Yulin Grottoes and the Xi-qianfo visitors are distracted from the rare ex- dew, are apparent in more than half of and the significance of the figures they Grottoes. Scholars at the academy spe- perience of seeing these historical arti- the Mogao murals and painted sculp- feature, in effect invoking the spirit of cializing in Dunhuangology do research facts by trying not to jostle one another. tures. the Dunhuang culture. Taking into consideration the need The effects of natural erosion are The late scholar of Chinese-Western Continues on next page www.chinainsight.info travel OCTOBER 2013 > PAGE 13

Dunhuang culture

Continues from page 12 on Mogao history, archeology, religion, took place under the backdrop of sus- ethnology and arts – including painting, tained exchanges between the Western painted sculptures, music and dance – as and Eastern civilizations. At the time well as apparel and furniture. In the past China exported silk and tea to the West, decade they have published 35 books. caravans introduced belief systems, cul- The academic periodical Dunhuang ture and art from ancient India, Greece, Research has published 137 issues since Rome and Persia to Dunhuang. Their 1983. influence was later evident in China’s Fan graduated from Peking Univer- Central Plains area. sity in the 1960s with a Ph.D. in archeol- In February 2012, Fan gave the ogy. She is hence adept at assessing the lecture World Cultural Heritage in dates of relics according to stratigraphy China: Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes at and typology, and in gauging the chro- the Benaki Museum, Athens. Around nology of the grottoes. 300 or more specialists in Greek archae- During the 15 years Fan has led the ology and art attended. She explained academy she has considerably advanced that Mogao grotto art circles includes the work of her predecessors. In recent Chinese characteristics and also those of years she has led archeologists in com- ancient India, Persia, Greece, and other piling detailed records and archaeologi- parts of Central Asia. The Dunhuang cal reports on the caves. The year 2011 Grottoes thus showcase the fruits of saw publication of The Archaeological multi-cultural convergence. Fan cited Reports on Caves 266 to 275 of the a bird appearing on the murals that is Mogao Grottoes – the first volume of strikingly similar to the Siren image of The Complete Works on Dunhuang Greece; also the lines of a Buddhist robe Grottoes. The two-volume report re- that resembles the cassocks worn by cords and interprets data, comprising ancient Greeks. The two details draw a texts, photos and maps, on 11 caves. distinct parallel between Dunhuang and The Complete Works on Dunhuang Greek culture. Grottoes is integral to basic research During her lecture in Egypt, Fan on their conservation and research, Fan talked about glassware. “We had glass- said. The works scientifically and sys- ware in ancient times, but it was not tematically document each cave, includ- transparent. But glassware featured in ing their locations, exterior, cave struc- Dunhuang murals is indeed transparent, tures, murals and sculptures of different very likely from ancient Egypt.” Fan times. It also records their restoration also mentioned the konghou, an ancient in modern times, current preservation musical instrument seen in the murals

High nylon fences and grids set up to protect the site. Photos by Sun Zhijun

the Dunhuang culture has become prom- class heritage collection; conservation; inent in China’s international cultural research; and exhibitions and service. In exchanges. In 2012 the dance drama other words, collection and conservation Dream of Dunhuang toured Southern are primary concerns, and social aspects Europe, North Africa, the Middle East like exhibitions and communications and Tokyo and Akita of Japan. The latter constitute the fundamental objective. Fan Jinshi (center) explains research results to specialists from the Getty Research Institute on October 12, 2005. country is the largest source of visitors, The objective of conservation of the according to guides at the Mogao Grot- Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes is, accord- status and subsidiary inscriptions. similar to the ancient Egyptian harp on toes. In January 2013, a 3D version of ing to Fan, “To protect and conserve this The project expects to publish 100 display at the Louvre. She believes the the Dunhuang murals was screened in treasure for posterity.” u individual volumes. The second volume instrument was invented in Egypt, and Washington, D.C. is now at the compiling stage. spread to West Asia, India, Central Asia In addition to conservation, research and eventually to Dunhuang. and tourism, Fan’s work also focuses on Foresight Dunhuang Impressions – Exhibition the demands of the future. She believes Dunhuang is at the transportation of Chinese Culture opened in November a world-class heritage museum should junction and strategic hub of the ancient 2012 in Istanbul, another hub on the Silk include four aspects. They are: a first- Silk Road. The grottoes’ construction Road. Over the past two or more years, PAGE 14 > OCTOBER 2013 health www.chinainsight.info Cultural stigma hurts Asian American teens with depression Sep 09, 2013, Katherine Kam, New America Media,

American children, ages 12 to 18, heavals, such as the Cultural Revolution, had undergone a professional mental have shaped their outlook on life. “The health screening. In a finding that mainland Chinese, they’ve actually had Chen calls “alarming,” the screening very tough lives,” Ho says. “They feel discovered that 12 percent showed that if they’re providing their kids with signs of depression. a home and a computer, they should be And yet, these children’s parents happy. There’s no reason to be unhappy.” often declined help. As Chen noted When teens become depressed, their in his assessment, “The high refusal parents often draw a different conclusion. rate reflects the significant barrier to “We see angry kids, we see unhappy kids. providing mental health care to Asian Right now, we see a lot of kids really ad- American children.” dicted to computer games,” Chen says. “Unfortunately, a lot of the symptoms Trying to understand mental illness will be interpreted by parents as a bad Across the nation, Asian Ameri- kid’s behavior.” It was late on a school night—3 ity helps him to connect with teens, cans encompass a wide range of Jason was a quiet and introverted a.m.—and Tracy’s 17-year-old son, says that it can be hard to spot the ones ethnic groups, from fourth-generation child in Hong Kong, Tracy says. He was Jason, was still playing video games in who are depressed. Yes, some, like Japanese to first-generation Cambo- always an average student, but had no their one-bedroom apartment in Flush- Jason, isolate themselves. Some also dians—all with differing life circum- real problems at school. When he came to ing, New York. The noise infuriated her cut themselves, drink or abuse drugs to stances and notions of mental health. Flushing, his first year as a seventh-grader and kept Jason’s younger brother awake. cope. But many are adept at hiding their But as a group, Asian Americans aren’t seemed uneventful, but by eighth grade, The family had uprooted from Hong depression, he says. “From the outside, likely to use mental health services. he was skipping school frequently. When Kong to move here a few years ago, and they may look popular and fabulous, but One national survey found that Asian Tracy left for work early in the morning, Jason had become angry and withdrawn. deep down, they may feel so bad about American children 18 and younger she had no idea that Jason was planning When he wasn’t arguing with his mother themselves.” were less likely than whites, African to hide at home. or brother, he would retreat into endless Ho’s young patients don’t use the Americans and Latinos to receive His mood darkened, too. “When he hours of video games. word “depression,” he says. “But they mental health care. was in eighth grade and started getting That night, Jason blocked all of her will say that they feel bad all the time In Flushing, which now has a large angry, I didn’t pay attention. I should attempts to shut down his game, Tracy and don’t see the point in doing any- Chinatown, many immigrants have have,” Tracy says. says. “We were fighting over the TV. I’d thing. Or some of them feel that they come in recent years from mainland Shortly after tenth grade began, Jason turn it off and he’d turn it on again. I got are a disappointment to their parents, China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Few stopped going to school altogether. He so angry that I threw the TV antenna out so they don’t actually feel depressed, understand depression and mental ill- refused to leave the apartment. He slept a of the window.” but guilty.” ness, Ho says. lot. “He wouldn’t wake up, even if I tried Tracy had arrived with such big Make no mistake: most Asian Ameri- His clinic provides health care, to get him up,” Tracy says. “He showed hopes for her boys—a shot at one can teens are emotionally healthy and including mental health services, to no interest in anything. He just slept and of New York City’s top public high thriving. But government statistics sug- mainly low-income families. When played a lot of video games.” These were schools, a chance for college. But mak- gest that a substantial number struggle he counsels depressed teens, their all signs of depression, but Tracy did not ing a new life in Queens was tougher emotionally. Among Asian American stories often share common themes. know. than she had imagined. “Life is very high school students, 29 percent have Their mothers and fathers are cop- She tried to coax him out with the hard here; to get used to the new en- reported feeling “sad or hopeless” for ing with culture shock and financial promise of a restaurant meal, but they’d vironment, the finances, the economic at least two weeks in a row during the stress. These parents often work long, always return home shortly after leaving. problems,” she says. While her husband past year, enough to interfere with their exhausting hours at restaurants and Jason would complain that his stomach remained in Hong Kong, she got up in daily lives, according to a recent national factories, persevering to give their hurt. He was anxious and fearful that the mornings to work at an office job youth survey conducted by the Centers children an education and better pros- people might see him, Tracy says. Then and then came home to take care of her for Disease Control and Prevention pects. But the grueling schedules often during one particularly angry confronta- children like a single mom. (CDC). That figure is slightly higher exact a cost. tion that year, she called the police, which Her younger son had adjusted than that of teens from all racial groups, “The parents work until 10 or 11 led to a psychiatric evaluation and diag- smoothly, but not Jason. He refused to 28 percent. in restaurants, and they and their kids nosis of depression. go to school. He had few friends. His With suicidal thoughts, the gap live separate lives,” Ho says. “Their “I knew he had a problem, but I didn’t angry outbursts rattled the household. widens. When the CDC asked Asian teenagers don’t really see them. If they know how to take care of him,” Tracy says “I though he was being rebellious,” she American students if they had seriously see them, the first question is, ‘Did you with regret. Her son’s sadness weighs on says. But eventually, Tracy learned the considered suicide during the past year, finish your homework?’ The teenager her, too, she says, “like a heavy stone in truth: Jason was deeply depressed. 19 percent answered yes, compared to feels that ‘they just want me to study my heart all the time.” At Tracy’s request, Depression in Asian American teens 16 percent of all high school students. all the time.’” her husband moved to Queens from Hong is a problem that few people glimpse, let About four percent of Asian American Given their own cultural upbring- Kong. “I couldn’t handle such intense alone imagine. But it’s a reality--a pain- teens reported a suicide attempt within ing—what one cultural psychiatrist stress alone,” she says. ful one that’s often obscured by stigma, the past year that required medical at- called “the stoic approach”-- many Now under a psychiatrist’s care, Jason misinformation, and shame. tention, compared to two percent of all parents don’t even have the vocabulary takes an antidepressant. He meets with Ho Jason’s social worker, Chi-Kit Ho, students. to talk with their children about their for counseling and has opened up about sees depressed teens who are referred Of course, not all teens who report emotional lives, Ho says. “The Chi- his struggles. “He trusts Kit Ho. If he’s to his mental health clinic inside the sadness and hopelessness may actually nese say that if you feel pain, it forces unhappy, he’ll tell him,” his mother says. Charles B. Wang Community Health be clinically depressed. But in 2003, so- you to grow. You suppress your feel- Tracy learned that her son dreaded going Center, located just off Flushing’s bus- cial worker Teddy Chen, Ho’s colleague ings and get things done. Don’t think to school because his English was poor. tling main artery of shops, banks and at the Charles B. Wang health center in about being sad or unhappy. That’s He couldn’t keep up in class, and he felt Asian restaurants. Manhattan’s Chinatown, conducted a not helpful.” alone and despairing. Inside his office, Ho, whose affabil- survey in which 1,032 healthy Chinese For some parents, tremendous up- Stubborn stereotypes can breed stress www.chinainsight.info health OCTOBER 2013 > PAGE 15 Cultural stigma Continues from page 14 in Asian American students, Ho says. “If future. “Acknowledging that ‘my child especially at their teen’s school. “We you go into a school and you’re Asian, has problems’ will probably shatter the try very hard to respect where they’re WHERE TO FIND MORE teachers already assume you’re smart.” dreams of the parents,” says Yu, who coming from, their decisions, and not INFORMATION If students don’t perform well, many works with Asian families in Philadel- to place blame on them. Many times, agonize—not just for themselves, but phia. In China, where one child is the parents may feel that whenever they The National Alliance on Mental Ill- also for failing their families. norm, mothers and fathers aspire to have problems with their kid at school, ness (NAMI) In the Manhattan clinic, Chen sees raise a “dragon child,” powerful like the teachers always say that parents are NAMI, the nation’s largest grass- teens who are afraid of disappointing the legendary dragon of Chinese my- wrong.” roots mental health organization, offers parents who brought them here for a thology. “We talk about expecting or The course empathizes with parents’ information on mental illness, treatment better education. “The parents gave up anticipating that ‘my son will become struggles, but also shows them how life and support programs. Visit www.nami. their good life in Asia. In coming here, a dragon.’ It’s just a saying,” Yu says. looks from their teens’ point of view, he org. The organization’s phone number they sacrifice for the children, and the “If you think there’s a problem in your says. “We let them know what it’s like is (703) 524-7600. NAMI also offers children know that. So the pressure is son, that dragon may never come true.” to be growing up and going to school plentiful information on mental illness actually pretty serious on the teenag- Teens can sense the stigma. “A teen- here, how disorienting that is, how and recovery in various Asian lan- ers,” he says. ager can pick up that kind of informa- crazy-making that can be, that you try to guages, including Chinese, Korean and Since parents commonly use aca- tion and also start denying,” Chen says. learn one system at school, and you go demics to measure a child’s well-being, “They’ll say, ‘no, I’m fine now. I have home and it’s a totally different system.” Vietnamese. See the website’s “Multi- they’ll tend to deny any psychological no problem anymore.’” In class, parents also learn how to cultural Action Center” problems as long as teens keep going Yu can’t always convince parents build better relationships with their to class, Ho says. Usually, it takes a that depression is a disease that needs children, for example, by spending more crisis—for example, a depressed teen’s treatment, similar to asthma or hyperten- fun time together and communicat- The National Asian American Pacific truancy—to force the issue. “Parents sion, so she’ll mention the consequences ing with less friction. “A lot of Asian Islander Mental Health Association get a call saying that the kid has missed of leaving depression untreated, includ- parents, they are not used to expressing (NAAPIMHA) NAAPIMHA, a non- school for a month, and they need to ing school failure. “That is what parents themselves verbally or physically in a profit organization that focuses on the come in or the school will call Child usually worry about the most,” she says. way that’s more conducive to positive mental health of Asian American and Protective Services,” he says. Integrating mental health and physi- communication. A lot of times, they’re Pacific Islander communities, offers cal health makes a difference, too, Chen more used to an authoritarian style and mental health information in English says. The Charles B. Wang clinics in kids do not like it,” Cheng says. “We talk An intense stigma through its “Friends Do Make a Differ- Besides lack of knowledge about Manhattan and Flushing formally con- to them about different styles of commu- ence” campaign, which can be found depression, mental health profession- nect the two spheres, housing mental nication and have them practice. What online at www.naapimha.org. The phone als face a second formidable obstacle: health in the same buildings as their can we do to enhance the relationship?” stigma. internal medicine, pediatrics and other Without support, parents of de- number is (303) 298-7910. Asian American teens become medical departments. “We’re not an pressed teens may feel hopeless and depressed for various reasons. Family isolated system,” Chen says. Instead, overwhelmed, Ho says. He invites for- conflicts and academic failure loom pediatricians screen every teen for de- mer teen patients who have recovered Active Minds large, but some have a family history pression during annual physicals. Some- to come back and talk with depressed This student-run organization, which of depression, which might make them times, they’ll uncover symptoms during teens and their parents. Not only do has more than 350 chapters on college genetically vulnerable. other visits. “The kids present a lot of these older teens help make depression campuses nationwide, provides mental Often, though, when a mental health physical, somatic types of conditions,” real, but they also offer parents tangible health information and advocates for professional delivers a diagnosis of Chen says. While parents typically hope that their children will get better. removing the stigma that surrounds depression, many parents will reject it. avoid mental health professionals, “they Ho has already told Jason, “Someday, mental illness. Its membership includes They fear that any mental problems will will tend to go to a pediatrician and say, you’ll be a survivor and I’ll ask you to Asian American college students. See reflect badly on their son or daughter, as ‘My son is not doing well. He’s stopped come in and help a younger one.” www.activeminds.org or call (202) well as tarnish their entire lineage. eating. He’s starting to lose weight.’ ” Once a virtual shut-in, Jason has 332-9595. “Parents feel strongly stigmatized. “The beautiful thing is that the pedia- begun to recover. He’s back in school People will label their child as being tricians know the parents, and somehow, and hopes to still be able to go to col- crazy or different, or put some sort of Chinese parents will actually listen to lege, Tracy says. Even though he still shadow onto it,” says Dr. Zheya Jenny the doctor,” Ho says. If a doctor makes a has trouble making friendships, he has National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Yu, a child and adolescent psychiatrist mental health referral, parents are more developed an online social group by For anyone going through an emo- at the University of Pennsylvania Health likely to follow up. publishing his fictional stories on the In- tional crisis or thinking about suicide, System. “And families might feel that ternet. Ho continues to help him explore call 1-800-273-TALK to speak to a it’s challenging to their heritage by re- Families aid recovery his emotions and find ways to cope, and trained crisis counselor. The Lifeline flecting family dysfunction or weakness Jason was fortunate that Tracy sup- Jason has gained a new source of self- operates 24 hours, 7 days a week. It or by reflecting poor parenting skills.” ports his treatment, but not all parents esteem as others applaud his writing. provides translation services for call- In many parents’ minds, depression do, Ho says. “Sometimes, I have to tell Tracy sees the stigma that so many ers who speak Mandarin, Cantonese, threatens a child’s future. If outsiders a teen, ‘You just have to take care of parents feel about depression, but now Korean, Vietnamese, Japanese and most see the mental illness as hereditary, the yourself. Your parents may never accept knows that it causes unnecessary suf- other Asian languages. child might face poor marriage pros- the fact that you are depressed.’” fering. “They’re afraid they’ll lose face. pects. Parents worry, too, about their But family is central to Asian cul- They try to avoid it,” she says. “But you child’s success. “It’s not like they are tures. “If parents are involved, we have need to face the problem. Otherwise, the bad parents,” says Chen. “It’s just that a much better chance,” Ho says. problem will grow very big. You cannot they are so concerned about the stigma. That’s an approach that Rocco control it.” u Katherine Kam specializes in report- How are their kids going to get into a Cheng, a psychologist at the Pacific ing on health and medicine. This good school? How are they going to Clinics in Los Angeles, embraces. For series on Asian American youth and have a good career?” the past ten years, his behavioral health mental health, supported by a Rosal- Given the traditional Asian focus on care agency has offered three-month ynn Carter Mental Health Journal- ism Fellowship, was produced for education, a child’s school achievement parenting courses through its Asian Pa- New America Media and its national is seen as evidence of good parenting, cific Family Center. Cheng knows that ethnic media network partners. as well as the harbinger of a bright many immigrant parents feel blamed, www.chinainsight.info community OCTOBER 2013 > PAGE 16 Iconic David Fong’s restaurant featured in “Bloomington Mapworks III” art exhibition By Greg Hugh, staff writer

David Fong with artist Eric Stellen, curator of Bloomington Mapworks lll. The David Fong clan attending the preview party. In addition to the many awards that restaurants may be larger … or glitzier. Rachel Flentje and Executive Director David’s Fong Restaurant has earned A few may even be older. But none is Andrea Specht hoped would happen. over its 55 years in Bloomington (9329 as distinctive as David Fong’s. And cer- In her remarks, Specht described how Lyndale Ave S.), the Minnesota land- tainly none has its colorful combination community engagement in “Blooming- mark can now add another to its résumé. of history and décor.” ton Mapworks III” took many forms. The restaurant is one of many landmarks Upon meeting the legendary David She said, “Through this exhibit, we’re featured in the “Bloomington Map- Fong, patriarch of the Fong clan, artist demonstrating that the arts encourage works III” art exhibit on display through and curator of the exhibit Sletten knew all of us to view people, places, and Oct. 4 at the Bloomington Theatre and immediately that the exhibit has ac- things in a fresh light. Building a more Art Center. complished its goal of bringing innate vibrant, connected and humane com- “Hungry an Hour Later,” oil on canvas “Bloomington Mapworks III” is objects to life as confirmed by remarks munity is ultimately one of the highest painting by Holly Stone the third in a series of related exhibits made by Fong during their meeting. purposes that art can serve – and I’m curated by artist Erik Sletten. Each Similar sentiments were expressed very proud to lead an organization that’s exhibit features six Twin Cities artists’ at the Preview Party held to celebrate providing nearly daily opportunities for interpretations of eight Bloomington the opening of the exhibit. Nearly 200 community-building through the arts.” landmarks selected from a list of 18 people from all walks of life gathered to This exhibit encourages the exhibit- locations in an August 2011 survey view the artists’ varying interpretations ing artists and the broader community of Bloomington residents. This year’s of the places where many of us live, to explore the historical, cultural, and exhibit includes Nine Mile Creek, the work and play. Multiple generations of aesthetic significance of the featured Old Town Hall, Normandale Com- the Fong family also were in attendance, landmarks. The exhibit includes 48 munity College’s Japanese Garden, the sharing their stories with the artists. The paintings created by the following Bush Lake Ski Jump, Minnesota Valley Fongs purchased three paintings of their artists: Craig Bell, D.C. Ice, Marjorie Artist Holly Stone (3rd right) with Ed, National Wildlife Refuge, Bloomington restaurant, with the youngest and oldest Moody, Erik Pearson, Erik Sletten and David and Helen Fong Civic Plaza, Mall of America and David family members casting the deciding Holly Stone. Fong’s Restaurant. votes. There is a good chance the paint- For more information on this ex- This exhibition encourages the exhib- David Fong’s Restaurant is the ings will be on display at the restaurant hibition, including artist bios, a video iting artists and the broader commu- only family-owned establishment/ soon. Please check http://www.david- interview with curator Erik Sletten and quasi-public institution among the fongs.com for more information. more, please visit the Bloomington nity to explore the historical, cultural, eight landmarks in this art exhibit. The These were exactly the types of Theatre and Art Center at http://www. and aesthetic significance placard describing the six paintings in connections between art and everyday btacmn.org/3visual/at_galleries/exhib- of the featured landmarks. the restaurant’s grouping says, “Other life that Sletten, Visual Arts Director its/mapworks.html. u

David Fong’s Restaurant seen through the eyes of six artists.