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所有的悲喜 爱恨 我掩饰不住内心的窃喜 |
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169 Overseas Scholars Start Careers in Xiamen By Kuo, Pei-Jeng |
| Last year, 169 overseas scholars chose Xiamen as their business starting point. Of these scholars, 73 have attained doctorate or other comparably high-level degrees and 70 have attained master degrees or similar. Xiamen's dramatic increase of overseas scholars preparing to work or establish companies in the city during the past year is certainly no surprise. With the government and service center's persisting efforts in improving the service quality and conditions for overseas scholars, interest in Xiamen's many business opportunities continues to increase significantly each day. "Working abroad and earning high salaries no longer have the same appealing effect on Chinese people who have studied overseas," said Mr. Chen Yanbin, vice director of the Xiamen Returned Talents Service Center. "These overseas scholars are returning to the mainland for many different reasons, "he explained, "Some believe that with China's growing economy, there is a wider market and an increasing number of opportunities available. Others have given up living in foreign countries because they feel that there are still racial restrictions abroad. Many have returned for nationalistic purposes, as they hope to contribute to their motherland. The reasons are endless." Despite their intentions, being away from China and the local market for a certain period of time, whether it is a few months or a few years, has presented several problems for many of these overseas scholars. Lack of work experience with Chinese companies, unfamiliarity with the market, different management styles, or even adjusting to different language or living conditions are just some of the obstacles they face. Realizing their situation, the Xiamen government and the Xiamen Returned Talents Service Center are actively providing the assistance and services that these overseas scholars need. Last year, the Xiamen government passed a series of laws that encouraged overseas scholars to establish businesses in the city. In addition to the laws, they continue to hold meetings in cities across China to publicize their advantageous working conditions. By international standard, Xiamen's policies on overseas scholars establishing enterprises in the city are relatively advanced and very alluring (迷人的，吸引人的). Many of Xiamen's public institutions also provide special services to these overseas scholars, including several banks, the Foreign Tax Bureau, Commercial Bureau and fire station. Surprisingly, approximately 80% of Xiamen's overseas scholars do not come from Fujian province. Although many larger cities, such as Shanghai, Beijing or Shenzhen, provide more support funds, higher profit gains or offer services on a larger scale, overseas scholars are choosing Xiamen instead. "I think one of the main reasons they choose Xiamen is because of the city's environment. It is not as fast-paced or tightly packed as the more populated cities in China. Another reason may be the honesty of Xiamen's service center. We present these scholars with the truth - the good, the bad, what to expect - pretty much everything," said Mr. Chen. "One of the main reasons why I choose Xiamen is because the city pays special attention on fulfilling overseas scholars' needs. They provide us with assistance and services that are efficient, convenient and reliable," said SBIZTrade.com's Mr. Zhen Xianfeng, one of the returning overseas scholars in Xiamen, who lived in the United States for 12 years. "For my software company, I need a small to medium market and Xiamen provides me with exactly that, enabling me to work closer with my clients. And, of course, the city itself is appealing. Xiamen has a very exoteric atmosphere. The majority of Xiamen's population comprises of Chinese people from other regions and therefore, contains some of the most talented people in China. I'm sure that many of them are as attracted to the city's favorable living standards and pleasant environment as I am," he added. Dr. C.H. Zhang, of Yi Jia Hua Electronic Technology Co., Ltd., travels frequently between Canada, Hong Kong and China mainland. His research and work abroad have equipped him with the latest knowledge in electronic advancements and he is preparing to introduce them to the Xiamen market. "China's stable politics and growing economy are major factors in my decision to return to the mainland. China's future prospect is bright and the market here looks very promising," he remarked. |
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Xiamen University Welcomes Dell By Yayu, Wu |
| "Our goal is to get a computer into the hands of every student in China and put the world of knowledge at their fingertips." Dell said at Xiada. On Tuesday, Mr. Michael Dell, the famous computer business star, and the CEO of the world's most preferred computer systems company, had been granted the Honorary Professor of Xiamen University, although he never graduated from any university. His short landing in Xiamen attracted a lot of reporters and Xiamen University students. During a fifteen minute speech in the university, he said he received his first academic degree last year, an Honorary Doctorate in Limenok, Ireland, the site of Dell's first international manufacturing facility, and was very honored to receive the award in Xiamen, the site of Dell's newest manufacturing facilities. He also answered some questions, including what kind of advice he can offer to the students, as he discontinued his studies 18 years ago but reached great success in business. "It depends on professional feelings, the real and strong feelings, and it's a big challenge for everyone," Dell answered honestly. "Education is the foundation of our ongoing progress as a planet and there is no better steward of technology than our global education community. I anticipate that more and more members of the university community will begin taking advantage of wireless productivity in the near future," he emphasized on education during his speech. Under Michael's "Winning Culture" direction, Dell has established itself as the world's most preferred computer systems company and is a premier provider of products and services required for customers to build their information - technology and Internet infrastructures. In 18 years, the company's sales have grown from $6 million to $35.4 billion during the past four quarters. Dell has opened sales offices worldwide and its approximate 39,100 employees serve customers around the globe. Because of the phenomenal success of the company, Mr. Dell has been honored many times for his visionary leadership. In 1999, he wrote the best-selling book, "Direct From Dell: Strategies That Revolutionized an Industry", his story of the rise of Dell Computer Corp. and the strategies he has refined that apply to all businesses. In addition, Dell Computer (China) Co., Ltd. will record RMB20 billion in output value this year following an output value of RMB17.5 billion last year, which made Dell the first "RMB 10 Billion Enterprise" in Xiamen. At 37, the boyish-looking Dell is still delivering growth and showing no signs of easing off his weary rivals. |
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Xiao Jing: Women in the Mirror |
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My Garden City My Pride By Yayu, Wu |
| Reporter: Firstly I congratulate you as one of Xiamen's representatives in Germany for honoured "Nations in Bloom" in October 7th on your role in contest to our victory. You've always said you look upon Xiamen as your own home. Does the special chance to represent our city deepen this feeling? Dr. Brown: I have always felt that Xiamen is special, but our experience in Germany proves that I'm not just biased. The rest of the world agrees! Xiamen's victory underscores how unique our city really is, and how fortunate we all are to live here. Of course, knowing Xiamen is "number one" and communicating that to others are two different things. We worked as a team for months to explain our unique heritage and achievements in a way that other "foreign devils" could understand and appreciate. As soon as the presentation was over, our competitors from other cities congratulated us. Several said, "#1! No doubt." And a man from Phoenix, Arizona, said "You obviously love your city. Your team is the only one that looks like they really enjoy living in the city they represent!" The head of a delegation from England said, "We've attended this competition four times, and this is the best presentation we've ever heard." Reporter: I have noticed that all Western people who live in Xiamen have your book "Amoy Magic" and everyone likes it very much. It has become the guidebook to life in Xiamen. Was it your original intention to introduce Xiamen to more and more newcomers from the West? How did you foresee the dramatic increase on foreign population? Dr. Brown: I have long expected Xiamen's population of foreigners to mushroom because, quite simply, Xiamen is a great place to work and live and WE "foreign devils" know a good thing when we see one! But "Amoy Magic" started out ten years ago as a twenty-four page photocopied booklet "Xiamen Survival Guide." Ten years ago it was indeed a matter of survival (at least for pampered foreigners!), but today our enchanted island is truly magic and a delight to live in. So I wrote "Amoy Magic" to help foreigners appreciate the richness of our culture and heritage. I will never meet most foreigners in Xiamen, and may come and go without understanding how special Xiamen and Fujian really are. But I found that a few insights on history and culture (and a few laughs-I like humor) help the other foreigners understand why my family and I have fallen in love with Xiamen. I've lived all over America, and been to many countries, but when I discovered Xiamen, it was love at first sight (or at least second) and I'll be on this island until they put me under it! Reporter: When you first arrived in Xiamen, few "lao wai" know Chinese, but since then things have changed. Now it seems many non-native visitors and resident want to speak Chinese fluently. Can you offer some tips on how to make the learning process easier? Dr. Brown: People remark that my Chinese is pretty good, but let's face it-even a parrot can pick up the language after 14 yeas. And yet the fact is, I know foreigners who've been in China for decades (and Chinese who have been in America for 40 years) without learning the second language. The only secret is, "Open your mouth!" I talk to everyone I meet on the streets, and practice, daily. So basically my Chinese is just what I picked up off the streets. Reporter: Can you offer some advice on how to maximize the potential of the Common Talk feature? Dr. Brown: I think Common Talk is a marvelous idea! My wife wants to start a Xiamen "Amoy Magic" web page to keep people up-to-date, to educate people (not just those living here but those around the world with access to the internet), and to get people's input. The more people understand Xiamen, and the more they share their insights, the more they'll love it. Participation will grow as Common Talk becomes more particular, but in the beginning it would probably be good to fuel people's curiosity and get them going by asking questions of specific people (as with me) and the general populace. I am honored, and wish the best of success for Common Talk! Reporter: As the first honorary citizen of Fujian province, do you have more projects or plans in mind for this area? How about a new book? Dr. Brown: I have finished writing "Magic Fujian" and am now putting in the photos, maps and drawings, and hope to have it published in the next couple of months. Last June and July I wrote thirty-two episodes of a TV version of "Magic Fujian" for Dongnan TV, and spent two months with a film crew traveling and filming places and people. |
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| A Gala Extravaganza of AXE By Yayu, Wu Last Saturday evening, at PLAZA Pacific Service Apartment , there was a Gala Extravaganza of Fun & Fashions presented by the Association of Xiamen Expatriates (AXE) in aid of the Xiamen School for the Disabled. AXE gathered more than 10,000RMB and donated it to Siming Ament School . The funds are targeted to support training teachers and tuition fees in the school. The Fun &Fashions presented by the Association of Xiamen Expatriates (AXE) in aid of the Xiamen School for the Disabled. AXE gathered more than 10,000RMB and donated it to Siming Ament School . The funds are targeted to support training teachers and tuition fees in the school. The Fun & Fashion event began with a very funny prelude and carefree music, as ladies in different colored outfits posed lithely and gracefully. European designs, wedding gowns, traditional Chinese dresses, casual fig and evening wear highlighted a wonderful show. The audience all enjoyed the evening and burst into laughter, especially when they saw a man dressed in a traditional European bridal gown. All models were AXE members and supporters. Ms. Christine Lock, the co-organizer of AXE has been in Xiamen for several years. This was her first time to organize this kind of Extravaganza. "We had held some Christmas and holiday celebrations before, but we have never done modeling. In preparing the Fashion show, we had practiced three times, and the last two weeks were very busy. We wanted to make money needed for Xiamen, "she said. "We are all happy in Xiamen and love it very much, It's a good chance to do something for the city. I have a handicapped brother and we often did such things to help people when I lived in England, "Ms. Piggott, the other co-organizer told the reporter. The sponsors for the event were ANA, Holiday Inn, Kodak (Xiamen) Ltd., Elisha Bridal Co., Ltd. and Winnie Hair Salon, etc. About 80 people attended the event and offered their generous support. AXE is an organization made up of female expatriates in Xiamen and was founded in 1999. Although the founder has returned to America, AXE still survives with a growing membership which sponsors such ongoing activities as monthly Coffee Mornings, book club meetings and regular excursions to interesting venues. |
| First, Second, Third… By Helen Kuo Are you the youngest or the oldest in your family? Do you feel that you are friendlier than your older sister? Interest in research of birth order has become increasingly popular over the years. Psychologists are making studies on the relationship of birth order to personality characteristics. Research shows that firstborn children tend to be high achievers and more intelligent than later-born children. In a recent study, college students who were born first, middle or last and only children were examined. Firstborns were discovered to be more competitive and have higher self-esteem than those born last. China's increasing number of only children are found to have a better sense of control and more self-understanding than children with siblings. Other psychologists have found that firstborn children tend to be more cooperative and helpful, especially in their relationship with adults. For the children born later, don't despair, as you tend to be more friendly, social and outgoing, which helps to increase your popularity among peers. Some of the differences among first-and later-born children are due to parental behaviors. Firstborn children and only children have more time to interact with parents and this greatly benefits them. Some research suggests that birth order may also influence intelligence. While they report that firstborns tend to have the highest IQ in the family, followed by the second born, third born, and so on, more evidence is needed. This is also due to the time children spend with their parents. With each additional child, parents are spread more thinly and cannot provide the same level of attention that they gave to the firstborn. |
| A Special Mother By Angela Lehmann (Australian) "Boring people have clean homes", she would say as books and old papers seep from another full wardrobe. "Writers are allowed to be messy and eccentric." My mother writes. She has been writing a novel for as long as I can remember. I've never read any of it nor seen that it actually exists but yet the typewriter would tap until the early hours of the morning and empty coffee cups proof of a late night of creating, thinking, writing. Almost ten years ago my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. At that stage I was too young to help and to old to be helpless. She underwent horrific chemotherapy while taking care of the four of us, never letting us know how much pain she was going through. She survived and life continued. Five years ago she was told the cancer was back. I sat by her bed in the hospital every day and every night. Waking from a painful, drug-induced sleep she would smile and tell me not to worry. Surviving, just, she got back on her feet. After finding herself so close to death, it seems my mother found life. "I am going to buy a boat and row down the river" she proclaimed over another inedible dinner. "How far will you go?" We asked, confused. "1000 kilometers-don't worry I'll be back in a couple of weeks". So she did. She gathered sponsorship from friends and businesses and rowed down the biggest river in Australia in order to raise awareness for breast cancer. A journey of renewal , a boat ride to a new beginning. Back from the trip, and looking for empty cupboards to unpack into, my mother decided she wanted to learn. "I am going back to university", she told my younger brother who was due to begin study in the Autumn. "We will be classmates!" So she did. She enrolled in university as a mature age student and is currently studying anthropology , linguistics and subject that "are completely useless but incredibly interesting to me." My mother is not like other mothers. She doesn't cook, she doesn't clean and she rarely sews or knits. Instead she is my inspiration, my pride and my strength. I have no doubt that her illusive novel will one day be on my bookshelf, and the tapping of the typewriter will continue. |
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Marital Courting Customs in Xiamen Translated by Jimmy |
| Among the males in Xiamen on the threshold of marriage, there are three observed customs: the presentation of a monetary gift, material gifts, and the retrieval of the bride from her house. During the occasion when both the groom and bride's families first meet each other, the groom's family will present the bride's family with several gifts, one of which is called a "potty pouch". The "potty pouch" is given to the bride's mother. On the day of the couple's marriage, the groom arrives at the bride's home only to encounter an obstacle: the bride's younger brother, or the groom's future brother-in-law (the bride's cousin, in the event he is an only child), will open the door for the groom, possessing the authority of a gate-keeper, in effect. Often, this gate-keeper will only see fit to partially open the door, usually only a crack-wide. Taking his cue, the groom tries to bribe his way through by slipping the gate-keeper envelopes filled with money. Upon accepting his gift, the rascally gate-keeper again closes the door, and the groom again offers him another bribe. This process is repeated up to as many as five times before the groom is finally granted entry, acquiring not only his bride but also a lasting impression of the difficulties that marriage entails. |
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