2004

4 March: Silicon Vineyard Innovation Awards

Kelowna Sister City Project - 9 March, 2004

Mr. Christopher Yao and Mr. David Ellsworth meet with Kelowna Mayor Walter Gray (centre) of Kelowna BC, Canada, to consult on the possibility of developing a sister city relationship with a city in China.

David received a letter of introduction to Mayor Da-ning Wan of Nanhui District, Shanghai, China.

11 March, 2004

Christopher and Joyce Yao (left & right) , David Ellsworth and Silken Laumann at the Okanagan Business Students Association dinner at the Grand Hotel in Kelowna, BC.

23 March

Lindea (my wife) and I left Kelowna after a morning of trying to ensure the completion of income tax returns, business accounting and billing and visiting My mother Bessie, who was awake following a few days in a stroke induced coma. It is likely that I may never see her again in this world, so I am happy that we were able to say goodbye and she was aware of where I was going.

The trip to Vancouver was uneventful. We stayed overnight with Bonnie, Dave and Sylvie.

24-25 March

I discovered that the suit Lindea and I had spent so much time and consideration buying had been left at home. I said my goodbyes and we went to the airport for the flight to Shanghai via Tokyo.

During the flight I mentioned to the flight attendant that I would miss much of my 60th birthday as we cross the International Date Line and later she came by with Champagne for me and the other 2 passengers in the adjacent seats. Since I don't drink alcohol, I gave mine to the girl beside me. Apparently neither of the ladies beside me drank much either and most of the Champagne got thrown away. The flight attendant decided to give me something else and later returned with a cockpit photo signed by herself , the Captain, Co-pilot and Flight Engineer along with small playing cards and a model airplane (later another attendant brought another pack of cards and a tiny plane).

I found a wireless hotspot computer at Narita Airport during the wait between flights and after a few moments of confusion found out enough to use it in English to send a few emails and order a domain name for a client.

I met Alf on the flight to Shanghai and we got along well so we agreed to share a taxi into the city where I would get a room in the same hotel as he. When we arrived at the Yangtze Hotel we were told there were no other rooms so Alf invited me to share his for one night.

26 March

In the morning we went for an early walk to the riverfront where kites were flying and had breakfast during our return. I changed travellers cheques to cash at the hotel (much better rate than in Canada) and paid him for the room when we got back. He introduced me to his business friends, Zhu Ming and a lady. When he told them that I was looking for a lower cost hotel. They phoned and made a reservation for me at the Yuping and then gave me a ride there where I registered for a week. I find that I like it better than the Yangtze and it is only about half the cost and includes a nice buffet breakfast and has a safe in the room which I find convenient for my passport and extra currency.

Yuping Hotel
448 Zun Yi Road
Shanghai, China
200051

The traffic in Shanghai is quite remarkable. Apparently traffic signals are only suggestions. Many drivers take whatever opening is available and I was surprised to see that the most expedient route through intersections was by way of other lanes and across the flow of traffic. Often a driver will go out into the oncoming lane around many vehicles to turn right. It happens so much that the police could never keep up with stopping offenders so I guess they ignore it.

I spent most of the day wandering throughout the area of the hotel. The international consulate area is nearby and I saw that the Japanese consulate was roped off and surrounded by the Chinese military, many onlookers and police. I was told not to take pictures by a soldier (I think it was because it was the only English he knew).

I saw only one occidental for the rest of the day and even when I am the only one visible, I feel very much at home. I find many people stare at me and many of the women say "Hello" as I go by but it is a hello unworthy of reply.

Since I left my suit at home I bought a new one along with a nice coat. Alf said it looked very good and the prices were irresistible. My feet got sore.

27 March

I walked to the East China University of Politics and Law. I was permitted entry to the grounds and spent more than an hour looking the placeover. I met a very nice young man who was planning to join the army as an officer following this his final year. I lost the phone number he gave me but would be interested in hearing from him again. He has my card.

I took the Metro down to the Yangtze Hotel to let Alf know that I could meet him at 6 PM then walked to the Bund. Went through the Bund Museum on the water front. The past of Shanghai has had much political oppression and it has taken a lot of effort and bloodshed to obtain the freedom it now enjoys. The future looks very bright and there is an exceptional amount of energy being focused on development.

I took the tourist tunnel across to Pudong and back. I should have gone only one way so that I could take the Metro back and saved walking back to the tunnel after exploring the area of the Oriental Pearl Tower. There are incredible numbers of new skyscrapers completed and going up in the area.

I met Alf again for the evening. We went walking to look for a CD case which we didn't find but we were offered help by 2 beautiful young girls. They too, were unsuccessful with finding a CD case and also didn't find that it was rewarding to stay with us so they said goodbye and started chatting with some younger men as they left. We found a nice restaurant near the Yangtze Hotel where we tried to order supper. Within a few minutes a lady arrived to help with the language. We found out that she was the sister of the owner who called her on a cell phone to come and help (many people have cell phones here). They both sat with us during the meal and made the evening interesting with stories for family and business plans for the future. I wish them the greatest good fortune.

I discovered that my sore foot was due to a large blister on the bottom of my foot just back of my second toe.

29 March

Before the glow fades let me effuse on the delightful evening I had with Zhi Ting and Li Ying who treated me to a wonderful supper of Shanghainese home style food at a very nice restaurant a short walk from the Oriental Pearl Tower. Little did I know how simply pleasant the hospitality could be for me this day. My gratitude is inexpressable and must be shared with Shifeng for arranging this meeting with his sister. It was more than two hours of very interesting conversation and helpful advice on my future activities in this exceptionally challenging city and her glowing face as she left the Metro to catch her bus home will be a fond memory.

Now to try to recall the activities of the day which seems so long that it will be impossible to recount all the details.

After breakfast I left the hotel for a moment and then returned for my overcoat. There was a chill in the air and I thought that by evening it would be more comfortable to have the coat. However time would prove that such was not the case. I needed cash as I was down to my last 15¥ and that would not take me through the day without difficulty.

Also I wanted to ensure that I would have accommodation here as the Shanghai Mart where the Trade Show of 13-15 April is nearby. When I went to the desk to make my reservation I was told that there was no room available at that time. It reminded me of my trips to Las Vegas during COMDEX. I asked if they knew of another hotel where I could stay and the arranged a reservation where the price was 140% of the price I'm now paying so I agreed to it to ensure that I would have somewhere to stay. I then went to the Bank of China to get cash for some travellers checks but found that I had to have my passport which was back in the safe in my room. I guess I should carry it with me from now on even though it is likely only to be needed at banks and hotels. When I returned to the hotel I decided that the overcoat was too heavy for carrying around all day so I went back out with only may suit to keep me warm. It was the right choice this time. I walked down towards the consulate area in hopes of finding another hotel but to no avail.

I went back to the bank with my passport and cashed a travellers cheque. It was quite a process including much paperwork with 2 people and copy of my passport. But the exchange rate was the best yet even with the $0.75 charge that was taken.

I then decided to head for Pudong in hopes that the hotel I found on the Internet may have space for me. I found it and it did. In fact the price was lower than I expected so I reserved a room for 3 weeks from 2 - 23 April. It is a long way from the Shanghai Mart but within walking distance of the Shanghai New International Expo Centre. Taking the Metro to the Hongqiao economic and technological developing zone isn't too onerous nor costly. In fact much less at 40% of the cost of staying nearby even with the 6¥ for the metro included. I may splurge and add another 2 for the Metro #3 to get a little closer to the Shanghai Mart :-)>

I returned to the Yuping Hotel and read my email. The message from Shifeng persuaded me to call his sister. That lead to another trip to Pudong and our meeting as mentioned above. I now await a call from my most dearly loved wife as I write this.

The call came later than expected, as the number I provided was not complete for dialing in from Canada. Lindea did manage to find the correct number (with Chris's help) and we talked for a long time. Much of the conversation regarded the possibility of living here in China, and the things we could do to be productive and financially successful.

30 March (6:17 AM)

I am drawn into wakefulness with my mind sorting through images of the past few days that have been omitted, both intentionally and by the limitations of expressability, from my journal; so I shall now relate a few.

Many were the comments exchanged between Alf and myself regarding the stylishly attractive cab driver that we rode with to the Yangtze hotel from the airport. And what about the two female art students who persuaded me to peruse the paintings of the class from Beijing. Would it be gullibility on my part to believe that the time she spent illuminating their work was only for my elucidation or was she hopeful that I would be a profitable market for another capitalist project. I can honestly say that it doesn't matter. Her sweet demeanor was a pleasure to behold and there is no way I could burden myself with anything she had to offer. Then there was the momentary encounter with the hopeful young man in the park who asked me if I were gay. He quickly departed in disappointment and apology.

I intentionally make little or no mention of the many business opportunities the I find along the way. After all, what value would they have if I gave them away or provided the means for anyone reading this to pick them up without the work of discovery.

There is so much left unsaid, but time is pressing and I go now to explore another day.

30 March

Another intense day of activity is underway. It is now 5:15 PM as I lie back on my bed to write this entry.

After visitng the downtown area and doing a little shoping I went out to the Shanghai International Studies University. The highlight of the day and of the trip so far was the lucid and frank dialogue I had with Andrei Aleksankov (pictured), deputy director for international relations and marketing, St. Petersburg State Polytechnical University, regarding the development of international educational programs. We expounded upon the desirability of establishing multinational educational programs with a number of countries participating and contributing the expertise and resources whereby more comprehensive programs of education can be offered to students. The countries of China, The United States and Canada were mentioned as being among those of particular intrest to be in cooperation with Russia. This is a venture that I have a desire to support and promote. I also enjoyed speaking with other members of the delegation including Assistant ProfessorAlexander V. Elenskiy, PhD, Vice Rector for International Relations; and the bright minded and well spoken Olga Dolinina (pictured), PhD, Head of International Department, Director of Aptech Computer Training Center, Head of Applied Information Technologies Department, Saratov State Technical University; and one other gentleman whose card I have in Russian but am unable to translate nor recall the verbal details. Sorry.

Following this adventure into the world of academia I met with two fasciating students attending the university, Zheng Guang Liang and Wang Ling Mei. We spent quite a while discussing issues in the realm of mental problems, the existence of God, religious organization and the relationship of the individual with material existance, love in the family and between individuals.

Although these things can only be lightly touched upon in such a short moment of communication, it is apparent to me that such dialogue between individuals so far apart in culture, age and sex can help to improve the relationships that we as human beings desire and that efforts at understanding can prove to contribute towards the spiritual well being and happiness of one another.

31 March

Today was another day of very interesting activities. Following typical morning preparations and completion of the necessary daily activities of life, which included writing the last of the information for my journal for yesterday and uploading it to the web site, I headed out to find the Canadian Consulate. As with many of my choices so far this one too proved to be transpiring at a very auspicious moment.

When I arrived it was the beginning of the lunch hour. I was fortunate that the Deputy Consul General and Senior Trade Commissioner, Neil Clegg was just going out and joined him for the walk back out to the street. He proved to be a very pleasant fellow and conversed in a friendly manner.

I went window shopping to pass the time and during my foray into the shops in the neighbourhood, I was approached by a very attractive young woman who began to chat with me in a very friendly way. She said she was a classical musician and was just passing time with nothing to do for the moment. I agreed to talk with her over a cup of coffee. She suggested Starbucks and because I am not fond of either their coffee or their prices, I suggested KFC. She seemed a little less than delighted but consented to the choice. We went in the door to the nearest one (there are many around Shanghai) .The entry we chose had the atmosphere of a Harlem alleyway. We discovered that we had come in a back way.

She approached the counter then made way for me to occupy the place in front of the till. I took this to mean that I was expected to pay. No problem. Coffee here is only 4¥ and that is within my budget. However her order came to39¥ and that is more than twice what I would pay for a light meal. I indicated that that was unacceptable to me and she immediately cancelled the order and disappeared. I presume there was something other than coffee talk on her agenda and she had an urgent need to get back to more meaningful business. It looks like I have found some ways to deal with the sales tactics that are so subtly employed here at times, especially by the women.

When I returned to the Consulate I was once again fortunate although not without some discomfort. Communication is not easy here most of the time. I was told to wait in the waiting room and after a prolonged period of time I asked the receptionist whether I would be able to see anyone. She said I could but said the person I would see was in the building but could not be found. They were trying and expected to soon discover where she was. I said I would wait another 10 minutes; as I wanted to get back to the Shanghai International Studies University to give Andrei, the Russian university team delegate the information on Kelowna and the Okanagan that I had promised him. Within a few minutes the receptionist knocked on the glass that separates her from the waiting room (waiting rooms here are very austere places with no open contact with any internal personnel) and told me that the lady concerned would be out to see me shortly.

Before the 10 minutes was up Annouk Rouffo Leduc hurriedly came out to see me and suggested we talk quickly in the adjacent meeting room. I explained that I did not operate at Shanghai speed and perhaps it would be more desirable for her if I left or at least made an appointment at a time when she was not so busy. Her manner then appeared to be much more friendly and she agreed that meeting on Monday at 3 PM would be quite acceptable. Before I left she suggested that I may wish to attend the annual informational presentation given at the Four Seasons Hotel this evening to a group under the auspices of the Canada China Business Council (CCBC). I asked whether there was a cost and she thought it would be about 200 RMB. It turned out to be 280 RMB.

I arrived just after 6 PM. I had planned to be there before 6 but for the first time I took the wrong direction with the crowd when changing trains in the Metro. I guess I needed a little humiliation to get over the idea that I was good at getting around Shanghai on my own. To navigate the dense crowds at rush hour you need the dance skills of Fred Astair combined with the assertive competitiveness of Dale Earnhardt and when that fails the agile reactions of a Wayne Gretzke.

The evening proved to be very pleasing. I met and talked with a number of interesting characters.

The most noteworthy being the Consul General, Robert B. Mackenzie (together in picture), who offered in a very knowledgeable way advice on the problematic factors with developing Sister City relationships. His concern was very understandable but he agreed that proceeding with the plan Yao Shifeng and I have initiated would not be unwise. I also enjoyed the conversations with Michael Xu, Shanghai Chapter Manager, CCBC, and others too numerous to mention. Of memorable interest to me were the talks with Adam Neifield, Deputy Head of Admissions at Yew Chung International School regarding the possible development of systematic social conversational english training for English teachers; Neil Clegg whose sociability included an invitation to join his group for an annual golf tournament on 23 April; and the fascinating Qiqi Lee, Art Director of the E>Studio. Although I wished to, I didn't get to speak with Vincent Zheng, SMB Enterprise Group Account Manager, Microsoft.

Also of remarkable interest is the invitation extended to me by George Dai who works for the Shanghai Government as the Deputy Director, Shanghai ZhaBei Foreign Economic Relations Commission, to call him any time. He even stated that I should call his cell phone to ensure direct contact with him.

Notwithstanding all that I see and do, I know that from any distance my presence here among the millions cannot be discerned and my movement however rapid and energetic cannot be detected among the dynamic construction projects and frantic pace of life designed to advance this country into a global future. Yet I strive to play a small part in the drama and contribute my energy in some degree to enhance the character of our future world civilization. It will take well planned enterprises, sincere and trustworthy relationships, and well directed investments to be successful, but this is a challenge I joyfully accept.

1 April, 2004

This is a remarkable day in an unexpected way. This morning as I was selecting the pictures for this web site I discovered that the memory I bought for my camera yesterday at a shop in one of the most vibrant markets in Shanghai that is marked and sold as 256MB is in fact only 64MB. I feel like I have been cheated.

Since I am not one to lightly accept the wrong product for my money, I decided to return to the shop for a correction of the situation. In this case I have enough clear supporting evidence that the product that I have came from the store and since it is clearly marked as 256MB then that is what I should expect to have received. Fortunately for me, this particular memory module was used in the store either to test as proof of its working or it was used to demonstrate the camera that created the pictures on it. In either case, the pictures are undeniable evidence that the module in fact was present in that store and the clerk in the picture is obviously wearing the uniform of the business. It should not require a forensic laboratory to conclude that I have not received the merchandise paid for.

I went back to the shop today, first selecting the same product from the display to see if another of the same item was misrepresented or if the one I got was unique and accidental. It too was marked as 256MB but showed as only 64MB of memory. I then explained my position to make clear my claim and seek to have the deal corrected. It took some serious persuasion to convince the staff that I had a legitimate claim and to show the clerk who sold me the item that I had enough proof of my position to require action. All said and considered after many phone calls to people higher up in the business, I was persuaded that because they didn't have the 300RMB on hand to make a refund, I would have to return tomorrow to reverse the transaction.

I intend at any rate to bring this matter to the attention of contacts that I have made at the administrative level in the Shanghai Municipal Government. It is definitely not good for the business of the community to have such a clear violation of consumer rights, especially in such an internationally recognized marketplace. Just around the corner form this section of shops that are operated by staff all wearing the same uniforms are some of the largest gold and jewelry retailers in China. It may be that the business principals are known to each other.

Once I had proceeded on this mater as far as possible I set my mind to work on another nagging problem that has plagued me since my arrival. The awful magnitude of it is slowly dawning on me.

I had been assured by many before my departure from Canada that English was widely taught and understood in China. To a degree this appears to be true, but upon deeper consideration and reflection, I have concluded otherwise. There is a language using english words and identified as English being taught at all grades and levels of education including, apparently in universities that is not the English the rest of the world uses. It causes a great deal of consternation among the general public when other English speaking people are encountered and there is such a fundamental inability to understand one another. I believe most Chinese people are so sure that they know english that they consider foreign speakers of English to be poorly educated and incapable of conversing properly.

I'm not sure how this issue of language in China can be resolved. Surely there are those in government and educational institutions who recognize the situation. There are many who have gone out beyond the borders of the country and been immersed in International English. What do they think when they see the difference? Even though I have been here but one week, I have already heard individual comment on the issue trying to explain to me that they see the two languages as Chinglish and English.

I'm sorry, I didn't understand until I began to read official technical and public promotional materials that it is not a poor attempt to use English that I was reading but a widely used and understood language that to an English speaking person appears to be poor and improper language but is in fact a unique language being represented as English.

I haven't found any recognition that it is an established language but I can come to no other conclusion at this time.

2 April

Today was moving day. It involved packing all my belongings and pulling them from the Hotel Yuping to the Metro, through the Metro to Pu Dong and then more than 1 Km to the Home Inn. It went well.

I am pleased with the new location. Although not as elegant nor roomy as the previous places, it meets my needs well. It is quite new and very clean. The TV programming includes an English station so that I can see the world news.

I then went to visit ZhiTing at her office building. This was another occasion which shows how simple things can cause great difficulty. I used a pay phone to call her from the lobby. It was somewhat confusing as to how to use it. Then once I found where to put in the coin and place the call and she answered the phone I didn't understand why she kept repeating the the greeting. After two unsuccessful attempts I managed to get a woman next to me to place the call for me. Then I discovered that once the called person answers it is necessary to push a green button to make the connection. I thought I had wasted the two previous coins but another of the women reached into the coin return and gave them back to me. I should be able to use the public phones here now if required.

After the friendly conversation with Zhi Ting I went down to store in the Huangpu District to try to get my money back for the 64MB memory module that was supposed to be 256MB. This time a manager was there and after a period of difficult and heated exchange of words, I was given my money back and I returned the memory. It made me fell much better to have succeeded with the transaction. I doubt that many customers who receive the wrong product ever get their money back from this retailer. A great deal of luck, patience and fortitude is required. The only thing that permitted success this time was the fact that the memory card had a picture of the sales person inside the store on it proving that the card came from there. Every effort was made to prove that it was not their product but the picture made the sales person so fearful that they decided there was too great a risk for it to be used against them.

I then encountered a business man from Norway. We talked extensively about doing business with the Chinese. I broached the subject of the English language as the Chinese know it as compared to International English. He was very attentive to the conclusions I have reached regarding the uniqueness of the language and agreed that it explained the great difficulty his company was experiencing with communications for their business and the great deal of misunderstanding they find.

I spent the rest of the day relaxing and sightseeing, but found I had stripped the skin off the side of my little left toe from all the walking.

As a footnote, I am often saying to those I meet when current political hostilities are mentioned, that I can go far more freely and widely as a friend than any General can with all the armed force at his command.

3 April

Merely a day of sightseeing. I'm very disappointed with my visit to the Oriental Perl Tower. I asked for information in English to show what the various prices of tickets paid for. No one would or could explain it for me so I paid for a high priced ticket thinking I would be able to enjoy more than with a lower priced ticket. When I entered the Tower no further information was available and everyone went to the same place. It was nowhere near worth the money I paid. Avoid the tower unless you want to pay a lot just for a high view of the city. A postcard is likely a better deal. Also there is an endless assault by aggressive street vendors selling Rolex's, Mount Blanc pens, pictures and the like while getting to the tower.

Musings on Miscellaneous Moments

4 April

Today was intended to be a day of rest and relaxation and it started that way. I stayed in bed until after 9 AM. I then read my email and found that my lovely wife wanted me to talk with her and she wanted to be able to call me. This was more of a problem that expected. It took a visit to my room from the person at the front desk to figure out how to make a long distance call to Canada. Once I called my wife I insisted that she call back immediately so that I could find out if her call was reaching the front desk. It didn't so I talked with the man there and found out the number on the card I had been given was the wrong one. I called my wife and gave her the correct one and when she tried it she got through directly. Now all is well.

I then went out for brunch and followed that with the purchase of a map of Shanghai that includes bus route numbers. It is only in Chinese but the numbers should help me use the busses as I have wanted to do.

I then decided that it would be a good time to look around Peoples Park. I wandered through the lesser travelled paths as is my wont for some while before I entered the area where larger numbers gather. I loitered in an area where quite a few mostly young men and women were socializing. Eventually a few took note of my presence and made friendly remarks. We exchanged a few words and took pictures. I mentioned my visit to the Oriental Pearl Tower and my dissatisfaction with the price. Many of them immediately agreed and suggested lower prices that they felt would be more fair. It would likely appear to be acceptable to this group if it were 10 RMB. However, the Tower is likely getting as many people as they want at the current price so don't expect it to go down.

I then wandered on and met others and opened conversation with a few people of all ages. Some of those that I spoke with were very well educated and enjoyed the opportunity to converse with me. Eventually a boy of about 11 years of age bravely and in good English began to question me. It was a fine conversation we had. He then requested that I accompany him to meet a man who spoke English at the English Corner. Since he was so polite I decided it would be a good thing to do. He refered to the man as Mr. Fat. This is a name I had previously been informed of so I was interested to follow. When I saw Mr. Fat (I hope this name is correct - if not this entry will be corrected) he created a very strong impression with me indeed. He felt like a bold and forceful character, much in control of the situation. He welcomed me with great vigor and it appeared that I met with his approval. He then gave me a fine introduction to others in the gathering and suggested that I converse with them. It was the beginning of my experience with this wonderful tradition; exchanging views and opinions in English. For the rest of the afternoon I was addressed by numerous people, both male and female from the age of young childhood to almost 90. Most were well educated including to the level of a university professor. All were polite and deeply considerate. Sensitive political questions arose and were discussed in a very friendly and satisfying manner. Philosophy, religion, culture and most of all language were placed under consideration and discussed with great respect. As the final moments of the day approached Mr. Fat returned to inform me that he would be leaving as he had been there since morning. He wanted me to know that he would welcome me to return next week and requested the particulars required so that he could contact me. I gave him the full details of where I stay and we parted on the most agreeable of terms. I must say that I found him to have a deep and enjoyable sense of humor that compliments his strength of character very well.

On my way home I stopped for supper and then found something I had been looking for since my arrival. A supermarket for groceries and the like. When I got back to the hotel I discovered I had another blister on my foot. For Lesah's sake I won't describe exactly where it is on my anatomy. But I will say it is right under the skin where the first one was.

More Musings

5 April

I spent time in my room again today trying to catch up on my homework. I then went out to eat at a place I noticed Sunday evening while I was shopping for some snacks to take back to my hotel.

It is a place that provides food that is very palatable to my taste. I will return often. The meal in the picture cost 12¥ (less than C$2). It is curried beef with potatoes and gravy and I like it very much.

I spent time sightseeing and taking pictures plus some shopping. I got a pair of shoes that should work for golf.

I went to my appointment with Annouk at the Canadian Consulate and received some very good advice on matters that should be of great interest for my future plans in China.

I had three more items that would help in my daily activities. A small brief case, a steamer to remove wrinkles from my clothes and more memory for my camera so I can take more pictures each day. I got all three but now I have spent most of the travellers cheques I came with. I'll soon be using my credit card as planned but realize now that travellers cheques in Canadian funds is the best method of exchange. The rate at the Bank of China has been very good. The effective rate including the transaction fee was 6.24193. This is close to 1% less than the interbank rate for yesterday which was about 6.31142.

My feet improved yesterday. The new shoes are not elegant but they are comfortable.

6 April

It felt like the warmest day of my visit. I found an ideal location for eating my main meal of the day - the Lotus Supercenter. This meal cost 7¥ and was more than I could eat.

I found some of the most friendly occidental tourists yet encountered on the sidewalk looking up at the Oriental Pearl Tower. There have been a number of friendly ones including a few from Great Britain, Norway, Holland and a few other countries but the majority I encounter still seem to avoid any form of verbal or non verbal communication in public. I spoke about this to a particularly friendly man from the Netherlands. He suggested that many are employed here by foreign companies and are very unhappy to be here but stay as a means of improving their career opportunities.

After eating I headed across the river by Metro and emerged on Nanjing Road, the pedestrian street. This time I was more prepared for the encounter of the young woman's approach. It is a subtle approach. I'm not sure as to what moment I was noticed but she came on like a shadow. In order to ascertain whether I was the object of her attention, I decided to cause an advertising pillar to intervene between us and paused for a moment of reflection as she continued around the other side. When I continued on around the pillar she was gone from sight so I thought I had read her wrong; but no, at the next corner she was once again very close beside me and she spoke softly asking me if I live in Shanghai. She did not have the striking beauty of my former encounter but did have a commonly nice appearance. I stated that I was just visiting for a short period of time in order to study the opportunities for business and to promote social relations. She suggested having a cup of coffee at the nearby KFC. I recommended McDonalds as they server coffee with real half and half and she agreed. As we were about to enter I wanted to ensure that she was aware of my intentions so I politely told her that this would only be coffee that I would be buying. As I headed down the stairs I looked back and she had vanished so I decided to have the coffee later.

While I remember to remark upon it, my compliments to the Shanghai government for clearing the public places of the aggressive vendors over the past days. I saw them at work and the vendors scattered like quail running into the underbrush of a nearby park. It makes the the experience of public places very enjoyable indeed to be able to walk without being accosted every other moment by the relentless throng of pushy sellers and allows one to move about at a more leisurely pace.

Now it would ne nice to see uniquely uniformed public assistants who speak english and were available to give directions and information for foreigners at busy subway stations and other high traffic pedestrian locations.

I decided this would be the day to begin the process of discovering what legal requirements would be for doing business in Shanghai. I started by going to the Shanghai Municipal Government building. It was not easy to find the means for entry so I went to a gatehouse where there were Security personnel on duty. Apparently they have experience dealing with foreigners. One of the guards made a phone call and handed me the phone. There was a fluently english speaking person on the line to answer my questions and she told me where I could go for the information I was looking for. She told me to give the phone back to the security man who would write the address for me. As I was completing the process a young woman spoke to me and asked what I was looking for. When I explained some of my needs she invited me into a nearby room where we talked for nearly 30 minutes. She spoke english very well and worked for the government. She said she was only there by chance but was able to give me a lot of information on setting up training facilities for advanced english services and some of the institutions that would need to approve the activities and facilities. She said it was not a simple process but it could be done and was very complimentary of the idea that I wanted more to do it with the approval of the government people that with the mere attempt to meet legal requirements. She gave me the address and phone number of the bureau to call and visit next.

I then went to the Pizza Hut across from the Peoples Park for a coffee. I was shown to a table and ignored for almost 20 minutes. I finally requested service from a waitress passing by and eventually got a coffee. Two young girls were seated at the table next to me and served immediately so I asked to talk with the manager. When she came I clearly described how I had been treated and told her that is was a very unpleasant experience. She understood and said it was due to the employee bing new and asked it there was anything she could get for me. I told her I only wanted the coffee and she insisted that the coffee was free. It was delicious and the best I've tasted yet in Shanghai. I gave my card to the cashier on the way out and said to give it to the manager with my thanks.

I had an appointment with Jonathan at 5 PM to talk about his move with his family to Canada. We had a nice supper together and talked for almost 6 hours. When we finished it was 11 PM and the Metro was closed. This was the first time I took a taxi since I arrived in Shanghai except for the trip from the airport.

7 April

With yesterday so warm this one seems like the coldest and most rainy. I even succumbed and bought an umbrella (9.90¥). One of those little ones that fold up onto a small short bundle. My main meal was another version of curried beef with rice served in a sizzling hot metal bowl with salad, soup and tea. 10¥. It is such a miserable day I decide to go back to the hotel and use the Internet, write and watch TV.

8 April

I took my first bus ride today. I asked at the front desk which bus would take me to the Oriental Pearl Tower (I wanted to go to eat and shop at the Lotus Supercenter). I was told the fare would be 2¥ but it was only 1.

There was little difficulty getting on the right bus and paying the fare but the ride was quite rough. This was the third motor vehicle ride in Shanghai and they all have me wondering how the drivers have learned to shift gears. They all shift to keep the engine at the lowest possible operating RPM. It must be very hard on the engines not to mention the discomfort to the passengers. The trip was a slow meandering journey through Pudong and we finally arrived at my destination. It is quicker and more comfortable to walk the kilometer and take the subway.

I had my main meal for the day and on my way out to take the subway to Central Henan Rd. I met three businessmen from Cambodia; Oknha Kith Thieng, Vice-Chairman & MD and his Executive Assistant, Marith Chhor, of the Royal Group and Lim Bun Rith, President and CEO, Advance Trading Company. They were exceptionally friendly, courteous and well spoken. They told me they were in Shanghai to sign some business papers. They encouraged me to look into future prospects of also doing business with Cambodia. If they are an example of Cambodian businessmen than I must agree that it is worth serious consideration.

I then went for a walk along the riverfront by the Bund. I met Zhang Qing Gong and spent quite a while walking and talking with him. He's married and has a son. He said he worked in a garment factory had the afternoon off. He liked to talk Cockney like an Englishman. His English was quite good. We went to the Old Town Bazaar for sightseeing and had tea.

I visited the Temple there and felt like the religious experience of most was purchased there. As with most places I go in Shanghai the people in the know are in places inaccessible to me.

As I was wandering around Shanghai this day I was reminded of the poem of The Ancient Mariner with a twist. People, people everywhere and not a conversation to be had.

While I was strolling along Nanjing Pedestrian Street I was accosted by two young females. They invited me to talk english and have coffee with them. As I really wanted to find out more about this particular type of approach, I agreed and managed to negotiate the visit to McDonalds with a limited cost to me of 25¥ (They tried to have me agree to paying 100 but I remained firm at 25). While the more outspoken one was ordering food she persuaded me to add 2 more so that she could buy an apple pie. Once they got the food all pretense of talking english was forgotten and they left me at the counter and went off to eat. I sat near them and had my coffee and realized that the whole process was nothing more than an elaborate form of begging. They finished eating and the only english they spoke was goodbye.

I saw two stars in the sky on my walk from the subway to my hotel this evening.

9 April

I was accosted again by a very good looking woman on the street to talk and have coffee in a comfortable place. I was sitting in a pleasant spot and invited her to sit there and we could talk. She tried to persuade me to go to a restaurant where it would be much more comfortable and when I continued to invite her to sit there on the bench, not to my surprise, she gave up and went away. It's only the money they are after.

I met a few nice people as I drifted over to the People's Park to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. For the first time I encountered overt antagonism towards my use of English. I tried to communicate with some young people making a video in the park. The girl I spoke to retorted that she spoke Chinese. I said I knew that and meant no offence and her response in english showed that she understood the language but didn't want to be friendly in any way with me not speaking Chinese.

I met two elderly gentlemen with whom I had interesting conversations, one was Richard Ho, an Interpreter. I also meet and talk with quite a few people that are not written about in my daily journal. I find that many parents with children like to have their children meet me and spend time near me, saying hello and goodbye.

It looks to me like there is a large number of unoccupied apartments and office spaces in the newly built up areas. I wonder whether it is due to the rapid rate of building and the slower rate of available wealth in the population to meet the cost of the new premises?

10 April

It is Saturday and I decide to spend the day with less talking with other people. Most of the time is spent looking at buildings and wandering about.

I met an American film crew from Los Angeles and have a short conversation with a very friendly man in the crew who looks like he is in charge. He explains that they are taking seven different exposures of each shot of the buildings and they will be used to create digital imagery for a futuristic movie that they are making.

The only other activity to note is that I photograph the manhole covers along the middle of Nanjing Pedestrian Street.

11 April

I got up earlier this day and prepared for a full day at peoples park.

I am immediately surrounded by people when I arrive and decide to sit on one of the benches. I know I cannot stand the full day. The first man who speaks with me is a surgeon.

The day is filled with countless people talking with me about a wide variety of topics. I avoid talking about individual politicians such a George Bush but otherwise comment on just about every subject imaginable including many views on science and religion. I am not surprised by comments made about Christianity and Islam but I am surprised when one man says he has heard of the Bahá'í Faith. The ages of those participating range from about 9 to 90. Some I met last week but most are new to me. I accept a bottle of water that a man brings to me but do not feel hungry and refuse the offers of food. I stay there on the bench talking for about 7 hours.

All of the people that I ask about their work are well educated and are either in University or have degrees. Many let me know that they want me to return next week and comment on how enjoyable the day was.

12 April

The reason for the pictures of the meals is to reassure my wife that I am eating reasonably well.

This was a short but effective day of business research. Since it was a very dull rainy day I decided to do some analysis on the occupancy rates in the highrise buildings around Pudong. I was surprised with how much space is unused. It appears to me that the utilization rate in both residential and commercial buildings is somewhat slower than the building rate and the number of buildings now under construction is quite high. I walked from the Oriental Pearl Tower to my hotel, a distance of 7 or 8 Km. I took a little more than 2 hours of walking plus the time to check out the buildings and take pictures.

12 April

The reason for the pictures of the meals is to reassure my wife that I am eating reasonably well.

This was a short but effective day of business research. Since it was a very dull rainy day I decided to do some analysis on the occupancy rates in the highrise buildings around Pudong. I was surprised with how much space is unused. It appears to me that the utilization rate in both residential and commercial buildings is somewhat slower than the building rate and the number of buildings now under construction is quite high. I walked from the Oriental Pearl Tower to my hotel, a distance of 7 or 8 Km. I took a little more than 2 hours of walking plus the time to check out the buildings and take pictures.

13 April

Even though I got up early enough it wasn't long before I felt like I was running late. I decided to take it easy anyway. I thought it would be a long day and it does no good to start with too much anxiety so I took my time to eat and find my way to the Shanghai Mart expo center.

This would be the first time that I would take a bus without asking for information from others. I bought a map that has the bus numbers on it and felt confident enough to go it alone. I probably walked the wrong way to the bus stop after leaving the subway but I did find the next stop and saved much walking rather than walk all the way to the Shanghai Mart.

I spent from about 11 AM to 5 PM at the trade show and met many interesting people. My problem is not with what business will be successful in China but rather where to locate to begin building the business. I thought that with all the encouragement and obvious market, I should begin in Shanghai, but after talking with a business man from Xi'an today and his obvious interest and advice it looks like many places are open to my interests. I keep hearing much of the same advice. It is difficult to begin with the government approval required, but very possible. It is mostly a case of taking the time for consultation and establishing agreement with the necessary authorities.

A video crew spent a few minutes taping my conversation with an exhibitor at one of the booths to be used in promotional material by Global Sources the producers of the China Sourcing Fairs. I may never see the results but it was an interesting moment.

Among the people I met was Oris Ken Emobo from Belgium. He was a very interesting and friendly gentleman who I wish the greatest success.

I wasn't so good at finding the stop to get the bus back to the subway and ended up walking all the way to the Zhong Shan Park station. It was a more comfortable walk than I expected and probably improved my appetite. I satisfied my hunger by being a little more extravagant than normal with a meal of Italian spaghetti with meat sauce followed by coffee and a pineapple sundae.

14 April

I took the morning easy. I find that the food is better by not eating too early, wait a while so that the number of people being served increases and the food is fresher.

I managed to find all the right bus stops today and reduced the walking to a minimum. When I got off the bus near the trade fair I was spoken to by a Chinese man with his wife, Gong Jian & Xiao (pictured). He spoke English and was from Vancouver. He was quite surprised to hear that I was from Kelowna. We spoke for quite a while and ended up walking over to the Shanghai Mart together as that was also their destination. He gave me his brother's name and phone number in Beijing to contact during my visit there.

I spoke with too many people to name today, but I did take a picture of Flora Chine & Vida Chen following an interesting conversation.

I wanted some linguini for supper but the restaurant didn't have it available so I had Spaghetti Bolonese.

Ken Emobo, a man I met yesterday called me this evening so I offered to make a reservation at this hotel for him for his return visit 19 - 23 April. They didn't have rooms available then but I was able to make a reservation at another nearby Home Inn for him and have arranged to meet him tomorrow noon at the trade show to give him the address and location. The only information I have is in Chinese so I know no other way to let him know where it is.

One thing I forgot to mention previously; it takes about 2 days to dry laundry in a hotel room here in Shanghai. I guess the humidity level is much higher than Kelowna.

15 April

This was the final day of the Electronics and Components China Sourcing Fair. Again I spoke with many people including Fiorina Shen and her colleague pictured with me and reviewed product information. They expressed concern that my wife may be jealous to see me with such pretty young ladies but I reassured them that my relationship with her was very strong and that there was no need for any such worries.

I met with Ken Emobo (third from left) at noon as planned and gave him the details for the Hotel where I made the reservation for him and his friend (far left) from New York.

Almost every booth has people encouraging me to look at their products. It is almost always a very insistent invitation to look rather than an effort to discover whether one is interested, as though all that is needed to make a sale is to tell about the product. It reminds me of the street sellers throughout the city. I wonder if it is common throughout China?

I walked from the Shanghai Mart to the Shanghai Gymnasium Metro station (about 5 or 6 Km) and saw many nice looking apartment buildings along the way, then had supper at the Super Brand Mall and returned to the hotel. As I was waiting for the bus to the hotel the police were blocking all the traffic from using the street and then a long motorcade rushed by.

16 April

I spent the day wandering about downtown.

17 April

Saturday morning I walked about 1 Km from my hotel to another Lotus Supercenter food court for breakfast. The prices for meals there were also very low although the facilities were not as modern and neat as at the Super Brand Mall. The rest of the day was spent walking about in the Pudong District and then to Nanjing Rd. and the Bund taking pictures and speaking with a few people. I took the ferry across the Huangpu River to Pudong (2 RMB) and walked to the Super Brand Mall for supper, then bus 581B back to the hotel.

18 April

I left the hotel at about 9 AM in pouring rain and went to Nanjing Rd for breakfast at McDonalds (the first meal there) on my way to the English Corner at People's Park. It stopped raining just before I arrived and there were already a few people there, some of whom I have met before. I wiped the rain off a bench to sit as I expected it to be another long day of constant questions and conversation. I remained seated there most of the day except during a few periods of light rain. Again it is a full day of intense interest shown by the people that gather around me. Mr. Fat again came by to insure that I know that he is favourable with my presence there and encourages everyone to listen to me. He brings a few young girls to be introduced to me and insists that they ask questions and listen to my answers. He also come to tell me when he is leaving and encourages me to return next week.

I agree to go for supper at the Super Brand Mall with two men from the group and we continue to converse for about another hour. One of them states that he came this day specifically to see me again and hopes to see me again next week. I need to get into the habit of writing down names so I can identify people properly. I hear too many to remember them and my memory for names is not good at the best of times.

19 April

Whether it is for the building of subways, skyscrapers or apartment complexes; rudimentary living quarters are set up for workers on the site of the construction. It is probably a very efficient and convenient way to provide for the temporary accommodation of those needed to work in such a densely populated area. Also when they put up construction hoardings they are they are very sturdy walls of brick, mortar and concrete.

I go to the driving range this morning to swing at a few balls so that my game on Friday won't feel so rusty. It has been many months since I've swung a club and I hope a little practice may improve my game. I do hit a few well so perhaps it won't be too bad.

I have never seen so many people talking on cell phones and when not talking they are often playing games on them, taking pictures with them or just holding them in their hand. I seem to be one of the few without one.

One of the things I have often noticed about many of the young occidentals here is how big they are. Many are head and shoulders above of the rest of us and their girth is also noticeably greater.

I must be on the well known list of unrewarding experiences for the young female hustlers on Nanjing Rd. I have noticed some of them pass me by and approach more likely targets where the chance of success is greater. This day though I do get two offers from females and in an unusual twist, two offers from young males. There is also one opportunity to go see a nice "Shanghai lady" for sex or just to watch. Little do these people understand how undesirable I find such things and I do my best to avoid such encounters but they can be quite aggressive and insistent. In spite of this most of the day in downtown Shanghai is spent meeting and seeing interesting and friendly people.

I'm not sure if it is just by chance or if the marketing of goods is becoming more difficult, but today I have found some of the ladies in the stores being particularly aggressive and persistent in their sales tactics. Twice I've been taken by the arm and pressured to buy articles of clothing that I have no deisre to own. It was difficult to politely move on and look for a cap to shield my eyes from the bright sun. I finally find what I'm looking for and buy a cap with Shanghai on it and a long visor which I can also use for golfing.

20 April

Today was the beginning of the second China Sourcing Fair. I'm surprised by the somber and withdrawn atmosphere among the vendors. One of the employees of Global Sourcing listens to my perception of this fair as compared to the one last week and he accompanies me down one of the isles and sees it as I do. It is quite a departure from the typical energetic presentation and salesmanship usually practiced by the Chinese people.

In spite of the depressed mood I manage to meet a number of very enjoyable people. The most remarkable being Chester, a man of my own age, born but days after I was. There exceptional moments in life and this was one of them. Rarely do I have anyone speak to me with such deep feeling. He is the president of Alpha Metal Corporation which manufactures aluminum ladders that can be configured in a variety of forms. While he travels during moments of waiting he draws images of the places he visits and writes very profound and insightful comments on what he sees. I can feel from his emotional words that his life being born in China during the Second World War and growing up since then has been very difficult at times and much different than the fortunate peace and security that I have experienced. It is amazing to me to see his radiant personality and nobility of character. No words can express the quality of the spirit of our short time spent together. I hope to see him again in my future and wish everyone could meet his like each day of life.

I also met a man and his wife who were very interested in the idea of offering social and business English conversation training. She sincerely wants to participate in such a program by including etiquette classes along with the language.

I also enjoyed the few minutes at the booth of Sunlle (Zhong Shan) Electronic Co. ,Ltd. hosted by Anita Sun and Jacqui Lee. The radiant friendliness of such lovely young ladies makes the business environment of China a very pleasant experience to enjoy. I don't think there is anywhere else in the world with quite the same qualities of poise, competence, charm and professionalism.

Ken Emobo and I go together to meet Zhi Ting and her friend for supper. We have a very nice time and I catch up on the news regarding Chris's return to his home in Nanhui with his wife this coming weekend. Since he will require a couple of days to become comfortable being back home I decide to take the opportunity to spend another Sunday at the People's Park and extend my stay here at this hotel until Monday when I plan to move to Nanhui.

While I'm writing this I hear a long series of small short explosions, sort of like the propane cannons used to scare birds out of the orchards in the Okanagan. From the location and duration I imagine it is from the construction site nearby where they may be demolishing old concrete to make way for new building.

While I watch the news about China's role regarding the WTO I hope the government will establish the principle that the economy of a healthy society involves more than free market consumerism and must take into account the social responsibility that those who accumulate wealth from society also have a moral responsibility to ensure that the wealth they acquire must also assist in the establishment and maintenance of the general health of the society from which they obtain their money. As it is, it is too easy for those who have come into possession of unimaginable wealth to believe that it is done by their own deeds while ignoring the fact that a society is required from which to accumulate the wealth.

21 April

My plans for future business activities in China are now quite clear and I find it is not necessary to spend as much time at the trade shows, so instead of returning to the Global Sources trade fair I decided to do more looking around in Shanghai.

I have heard a few times about an area of town called Xintiandi which is supposed to be quite an interesting place to see. This appeared to be a good time to fit it in to my journey. It is not far from the People's Square so I walked there after getting off the Metro and passed by the museum on the way.

It appeared to me to be the haunt for those living the socially extravagant lifestyle. One place of great interest to me was the site of the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China where I learned more of the history of the country. Most of the site is set up to follow the sequence of events and includes signs in English. I noticed a doorway off to the side on my way to the souvenir room which had a sign only in Chinese; so, since I am adventuresome, I decided to enter and see what lay inside. It was a room filled with pictures and Chinese writing about the women in the history of the communist era.

During my stroll in the area, I noticed an office of Wall Street English and entered to find out whether it would be possible to work for them. I was surprised by the atmosphere of the place when I entered and it took me a moment to adjust. It was very metallic in appearance and had subdued bluish lighting. When I asked for information I was told to contact their main office in Pudong. At least this center had staff that understood English questions. The other two English training places I visited couldn't understand when I asked questions.

On my way out a 21 year old girl started talking with me and told me she was a student there. She wanted to spend some time talking with me and I agreed to go to a nearby park with her so she could have a chance to use English. We talked for about an hour and then I walked with her to where she lives and then went to Nanjing Rd.

I went to McDonalds and bought a sundae and coffee to enjoy on a bench as I watched the people go by. As I was eating the ice cream one of the ladies I encountered in the past started talking with me again. She wanted me to buy her a sundae also, but I declined. She then said that all she needed was 2RMB to get one so I relented. When I gave her the money she then said she also wanted 2 for each of her friends who were sitting nearby. I then realized I had been taken in and refused to give her more.

A short while later another girl came by and talked with me for about 15 minutes and didn't ask for money so I guess there are a few who are not only looking for financial gain.

22 April

23 April

24 April

25 April

26 April

This was one of the long awaited days of my trip and it was very enjoyable. I moved from the hotel in Pudong where I had been for the past weeks to another one in Nanhui. The bus I took went virtually door to door and the journey was quite memorable with a father and his young daughter of about 5 sitting in the seat beside me.

The people are remarkably considerate. My overcoat was touching the floor and the ticket lady brought it to my attention so that it wouldn't get it dirty. This is the second time such a thing has happened.

I got to the new hotel and registered, then went to my room and phoned the number Chris had given me. A man answered in Chinese and I was confused for a moment as to what to do so I said Yao Shifeng. The man expressed what I took to mean that he knew who I was and we sort of said goodbye and hung up. It took me a while to figure out what I should do next as I wasn't sure whether Chris knew where I was. I then went down to the hotel desk and asked the lady there to make the phone call for me and ask in Chinese what I should do. She made the call and a short while later Chris called back and then came to pick me up.

Since I was hungry, as I hadn't yet eaten since yesterday, he and Joyce took me to a restaurant and fed me. We then went to his home for the rest of the afternoon and had tea. His home is very nice with a simple elegance. I met his father when he came home and also his cousin who lives in the house with them.

At supper time we went out to a restaurant where we were joined by others of the extended family and had one of the most enjoyable and memorable meals of my life. Everyone was friendly and hospitable in a very relaxed and considerate way. Chris and Joyce then took me back the hotel where we tried to get my computer to work on the Internet in the hotel business center. We were unsuccessful but we did check our email on their computer and I sent my phone number to my wife Lindea.

As is usual Lindea called me for our daily contact.

27 April

Today didn't go as planned so I ended up going to the CeBIT Asia trade show at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre. I took a circuitous route to the venue due to my penchant for exploring new avenues of approach. On the map it looked like I could easily walk from the bus terminal to the show. Little did I know that a huge new highway interchange has been built that is not shown on my map. Once I reached it it meant that I was faced with a chioce of retracing my steps for a couple of kilometers or finding a way through the new fence that separates the highway from the old road that I had followed. I felt that others living in this area had faced the same dilema and had found a way to go onward so I looked very carefully and noticed that someone had broken down the fence at one point to provide a means of getting through. Once through I followed a convoluted system of bicycle paths to the opposite side and managed to get to the site of the show much later than expected.

One of the people I talked with was responsible for the staff in a factory and he recognized the probability that business was difficult due to the poor quality of English used at the factory when dealing with international clients. He considered the possible cost of lost business and weighed the cost to improve spoken English with a training program. I gave him a quote of what I expect the cost would be on an hourly basis to provide a training plan for the factory and also pointed out that it would be wise to coordinate the needs of his factory with other factories in the area so that the costs could be spread out by rotating a professional English consultant through an area on various days of the week with a systematic plan and verbal program. He showed a serious interest and I will follow up if I return to China with such a program.

I also had an extended conversation with a business couple from Brooklyn, New York, and listened to their stories of how difficult they have found it to communicate and do business here in China. With all the complaining that I hear from international business people, professionals and visitors, I'm surprised at how little concern and awareness there seems to be from many of the Chinese business people I have met. Perhaps the rate of flow of investment into China and the demand for Chinese goods and services is so great that the language problem is of little concern to them.

Even though the majority of the Chinese appear to be indifferent, there are so many Chinese business people that recognize the need for English improvement that it is still one of the few obvious services that can be established and expect to make a profit in this gold rush type of economic climate. As far as most of the industrial and real estate sectors are concerned the flow of capital into them reminds me of the Internet of just a few years ago where the billions of dollars that were poured into it were either lost or are still sitting on books with the hope that the profits will materialize. Likewise in this economic situation the speed of development is very feverish and large numbers of buildings for commercial, industrial and residential purposes are being constructed at a much greater pace than the rate of occupancy and are sitting either vacant or with a low utilization rate. I often wonder what program the Government of China will devise to develop the economic conditions that will provide the flow of funds needed in the general population to make the development profitable. The flow of foreign capital is great for constructing structures, but sooner or later they must be put to practical use and earn an income in order to generate the profit needed to provide the return on the investment.

28 April

Today I reflected on how my life was changed so dramatically in a spiritual way more than 30 years ago and I embarked on a systematic and unrelenting journey of education, social awareness and personal skill development. I feel that this period of time is a moment of similar effect and I am developing plans for the final productive phase of my life.

My ideas on the developments in China have expanded by seeing with my own eyes the scope of the construction of New Harbor City and visiting the university district here in Nanhui.

When I contemplate the many thousands of university students that will graduate and be entering social life, working and establishing homes; and the building of the new city, port and the social structure that that entails, I no longer believe that the vacancy rate is as problematic as I previously imagined. What is happening here will inexorably alter the shape of world economics and politics. The determination and the capability of China are undeniable. It truely is a matter of cooperate and participate in a new global reality or hide your head in the sand and live with the consequences of ignorance. The material and economic system of the world has changed. China is undeniably playing a major role. The people of China want to participate in a peaceful evolution of global interdependence. They are assuredly confident and will not submit to repression. The dragon is awake and it is friendly. It is friendly, but not submissive nor subservient. Learn to live with the dragon — observe and learn to cooperate and profit by what the dragon does.

The climax of the day was at supper time. I was the honoured guest of some of the the officials of the District of Nanhui including Magistrate Wan Da Ning and Deputy Director Min Shedong of the Foreign Affairs Office.

Magistrate Wan spent much of the dinner time elucidating the plans, activities and challenges of building the new city that is expected to be established by 2020. He explained in very strong and clear terms his desire to see the relationship with Canadians grow to include the involvement of Canadians in some aspects of the project. He stated the hope to visit Kelowna where he would like to sign an agreement to establish a sister city relationship and also extended his warmest invitation to Mayor Walter Gray to come and visit Nanhui so that he can see for himself the seriousness of the development that is taking place here.

3 May

Today I received the news of the death of my mother. I believed the last time I saw her that we would only meet again in the life hereafter and I said my most loving goodbye as I was about to leave for China. There is no doubt in my mind that, in spite of this sadness, she shares my joy in this most momentous journey I am on and approves.

I will not be able to attend any of the events surrounding her funeral but hope that my family and friends will know that I am present in spirit. In my eyes my mother is the finest soul a person could hope to have for a parent. I have never heard anyone ever say a negative word about her, so I believe that the respect I feel for her must be a common feeling for every person who knew her. She was the first to teach me to look at every human being as an equal, to avoid the feeling of prejudice about anyone and to be friendly to each one that I meet. It has proven to be of the greatest value in my life.