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Ugandan-born Jahan Berns is the face of a successful immigration story.
Written by Rosalind Fournier
A wife and mother of two, an attorney in a prominent law firm, an active member of her church and tireless volunteer in the community, Ugandan-born Jahan Berns is the face of a successful immigration story. She has a radiance, warmth, and ease in the way she carries herself that belies the unimaginable hardship she faced growing up. Berns knows that given the dramatic circumstances of her childhood, her life could very well have turned out differently.
Berns was born into a prominent family in Uganda, where her father, George Nkwanga, was a high-ranking military officer. His status afforded them security in a tumultuous time—Berns remembers him driving her to school in the mornings in a convoy with bodyguards—and she was too young then to understand their fate could turn on a dime.
In 1979, when the tide was turning against the brutal Ugandan dictator Idi Amin, Berns' father was among the military commanders who staged a coup to remove him from power. Still, even with Amin gone, peace and stability for Uganda remained elusive. In 1986 Nkwanga was assassinated by political rivals.
Berns was only seven. Still reeling from Nkwanga's murder, her family was blindsided again when she, her mother and older sister returned to their home after his burial. "We got there and were turned away," Berns says. "One of my father's own friends had moved into our home, and there were soldiers now at the gate that we didn't know, and they told us, 'You can't come in.'
"In 1986 there was no rule of law," Berns continues. "You're not going to go to the police and report, 'Someone's moved into my home and I want to file a lawsuit.' The soldiers are the law. So as long as my dad was alive, we were safe, but now we became afraid." The family learned their bank accounts had been emptied, too. "Life as I knew it was over. And I remember crying, because I didn't understand how my dad was gone."
Eventually Berns' aunt gave them a room in her farmhouse to stay in. They were grateful, but it was a harsh adjustment: the farm had no electricity or running water; snakes were a constant threat; and every morning, Berns faced an arduous journey just to get to school.
"Transportation in Uganda after the war was very poor," she recalls. "So we had to wake up at 4 a.m., take a cold shower, and drink water or eat porridge if there was any leftover from the night before, and then we would walk in the dark with a lamp. It was a village—very, very rural—so you could be attacked by wild animals.
"It was a time of intense fear, but also a time of having to develop courage," Berns continues. "You had no other option. We would walk those many miles, and wait for the bus or the taxi with many other people. And once it came, it was almost always full, so people had to fight to get into it." Her mother developed a system to ensure them a seat. She would run to the back, tap on the window until someone opened it, and hoist Berns inside. Before the bus could take off, Berns would shout that her mother was still outside, so the driver would be forced to let her on. "You just learn to survive. You learn to fight for your place and stand up for yourself."
Berns learned a lot of her survival instincts during those years from her mother, who was determined for her girls to get a good education. Berns remembers that when they could no longer afford schoolbooks, her mother would walk her past storefronts to have her read the signs in the windows. "That's how I learned to read English," she says.
Still, her mother worried. She was acutely aware of the injustice that had been done to her family and felt she owed it to her daughters to do something to rectify it. The president of Uganda at that time was (and still is) Yoweri Musevini. She decided to approach him directly.
"Maybe two or three years into his presidency," Berns remembers, "with my mom having struggled so much, she sat down and thought, 'My husband did so much for this country. If fate had been different, maybe he would have been president. He was somebody. That should count for something.'
"So she decided she was going make (Musevini) aware of it and ask for help. And she did that, and it took a lot. I watched her sit down and write a letter every single night; I think they just got tired of receiving her letters, but one day she got an appointment with him. She went, and he said he hadn't known we were alive. He asked, 'What can I do for you?' And she said, 'I want you to educate my children.' And he said, 'Done. Wherever they want to go, I'll educate them.' When she told me, she was so excited she cried."
Berns began attending a boarding school founded by British missionaries. It was there, amid the relative calm of her new school, the grief and anger she felt over her father's death seemed finally to hit her full force, and she recalls periods of rebellion and outright fury. But two other things happened there that would shape the course of her life forever.
One was converting to Christianity. "I had so much trauma, so much anger, and I had nightmares," Berns recalls. "And then one day this friend of mine said, 'Your dad was assassinated, right?' And I said, 'Yes.' And she said, 'Are you afraid?' And I said, 'Yes.' Normally, never would I admit to people that I was afraid. She said, 'Just go to sleep with your Bible.'
"I was desperate," she continues. "So I went to my room, and this being a Christian school, everyone was given a Bible…you weren't forced to read it, but you had one. So I got in my bed and held that Bible to my chest, and I remember this crystal-clear thought: 'I don't even know what's in it. Why would it work?' So I randomly opened it, and it fell on Psalm 91. It was the most amazing thing I'd ever read. Then I slept, the first night I had ever really slept without nightmares."
The other thing that happened was that she began to apply herself fully in school. A gifted student under the worst of circumstances, here she began to thrive and eventually earned a scholarship to law school.
In her final year of law school she met her husband, Bob, an American, and after she graduated they moved to England before coming to the United States in 2005. Because her degree was based on English common law, she was unable to practice law here until she passed the bar in the United States, which she did with flying colors after graduating from the Birmingham School of Law. She's now at attorney with Sirote & Permutt, P.C. representing creditors in state, federal and bankruptcy courts.
In life as in business, Berns has immersed herself in American culture with a uniquely global perspective. But few experiences growing up in Africa prepared her for the American style of life. "There was a lot to learn about culture, mannerisms, and speech," Berns says. "In my culture, we are very direct, you say what you mean, and you mean what you say. You smile from your heart, and you sure don't smile at someone if you don't feel genuine warmth toward them. American culture can have a lot of plastic smiles, shallow and pretentious enthusiasm, phony conversation…I used to get upset when people would say, 'Let's get together sometime,' and I would wait and wait. I now laugh thinking about it…they were just making polite conversation. It has been interesting learning all the cultural and social nuances. Some of the lessons have been hard, and some have come easy. With each situation, I try to remember to walk in love and forgiveness—for others and for myself."
Berns also struggles at times to reconcile the wealth of material comforts and personal freedoms Americans enjoy with the grim realities many in Uganda still face. "Living in London prepared me a little bit for America," she says, "but America is a country of excess. And it's hard for me to get over the shock of how much this country has…the resources and food alone. It's very hard for me to throw away food, because I always think about about how many people it could feed back home. And then I think one of the things that upsets me about Americans is how ungrateful they can be."
Talking to Berns, it's clear that she doesn't use the term "ungrateful" the way others might—as a harsh judgment—because she understands many have never experienced the kind of abject poverty or been exposed to the cruelty she has seen. "Americans really don't know that aspect of life," she says. "So it's easy to get complacent and feel entitled. But I never want to be like that, because I always want to be grateful for this country."
Though a Christian, one perhaps surprising aspect of Berns' life has been her effort to actively seek out and become involved with the local Jewish community. For Berns, it's partly about seeking a sense of connection that goes back to her father, who completed his military training in Israel and felt great affection for the people he met there.
"He had this love after having trained in Israel…he had trained in other countries as well, but he found the Israelis to be very humane. So I was intrigued."
Berns decided to become involved in volunteer work and advocacy through the Birmingham Jewish Federation (BJF). She later went to hear a visiting rabbi give a talk about the need for more bomb shelters in Israel, and threw herself into fundraising for an organization called Operation Lifeshield that builds the shelters. "It appealed to me because I thought of Africa," Berns says, "where during war you really don't even have shelters." She eventually participated with the BJF as part of a Jewish Federations of North America women's trip to Israel, where they visited the bomb shelter she and other donors had made possible.
"Going to Israel was like a dream come true for me," she says. "I had wanted to go for years, because of my faith, but also when you grow up without a dad there's this longing to just connect to the things that meant so much to him. My dad was an amazing soldier, and part of it was because he trained here. I wanted to walk through Israel and know I was walking the land that my dad walked in, and walking this land where my faith connects, and all that. And somehow weirdly all that brought so much closure for me regarding my father's death. I thought, okay, he might never have seen that peace he worked for, but people carry that dream, and they work hard towards that dream, and it lives on. And in every way it was so life changing for me."
Her ever-expanding worldview has continued to make Berns grateful for the opportunities she has living and working in America, warts and all. She has the gift of perspective, and she wouldn't trade that for the world. "I go to court now, and I look at defendants waiting to be heard, and I watch them," she says. "Some will plead guilty to aggravated robbery, and they still are calm, and I'm thinking, wow. Prison is not a pleasant place to be, but by and large people here are not dying for things like stealing. So that is one of the things that just blows me away about America, the respect for people's rights. There are strong democratic processes. Let's never forget what an amazing, amazing country it is."
Her feelings about Uganda remain complicated. "It is a beautiful country, with very warm and, for the most part, incredibly friendly people," she says. "(But) I think I am still struggling with frustration and a measure of anger over the acute poverty, crime and poor infrastructure in Uganda.… Of course I am grateful we don't have the senseless bloodshed that we had before 1986, but nonetheless people are still needlessly dying from violent crimes, AIDS and other diseases. I don't know when that will change for the better, but I hope and pray it will someday."
Berns has also worked hard to deal with her grief over her father's untimely death, and how unjustly her family was treated in the aftermath—but she doubts they were the only ones. "It is said that other families of (military heroes) suffered a similar fate to ours," she says. "I have never sought out their families to confirm this; it seems pointless to open up deep wounds.
"I learned long ago that in order to be free of that anger and pain, I had to forgive and move on."•


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Staff at Ludlow Wealth Management Group have been honoured for long service totalling 55 years.
The group of four staff were celebrated recently at the annual Anniversaries Lunch held by the business and attended by many of its 42 staff.
The long serving team included Ian Hemingway, managing director, who clocked up 15 years in January this year, and Sarah Lees, associate director, who reached 20 years in September this year. Sarah is based in the company's Preston office and Ian is based in the Southport head office.
Senior consultant Emma Thomas, based in the Liverpool office, reached her tenth anniversary in August, and senior administrator Julie Staff, who works in the Lytham office, celebrated 10 years in July.
Sid Ludlow, chief executive of Ludlow Wealth Management Group, said: "We are very fortunate to have a number of long-serving staff working for us and it's important to recognise the contribution they have made to the business.
"Including these most recent anniversaries, 16 of our 42 colleagues have given the company, or its subsidiaries, 10 years or more of dedicated and loyal service.
"I am extremely proud of the contribution that they have made and delighted to have had the opportunity to work alongside them as the company has grown; these people are Ludlow."

subset: commoncrawl


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Everything Is Awesomer Because LEGO Movie 2 Might Feature The Doctor
LEGO Dimensions already lets players team the Doctor with, for example, Batman or Gandalf but the mashup of the Doctor Who universe and the LEGO world is about to become even more intertwined: word is that the Doctor is up for a role in the sequel to 2014's super successful LEGO Movie.
With a follow-up due out in 2018, director Rob Schrab is just in the early stages of planning the movie—not that it's stopped him from discussing one pretty huge bit of casting news in interviews. Schrab was a guest on Dan Harmon's podcast Harmontown earlier this week when the host asked him how the sequel was shaping up. Schrab immediately launched into a yarn concerning Will Ferrell stranded in the woods with a flat tire followed by a screed on the right way to pluralize LEGO, completely burying the big news: that he's in talks with the BBC.
"For real, I'm talking to the BBC on Thursday", he told Harmon. About what though? "Oh I don't know…" Schrab said, suddenly coy. "There's a certain character that the BBC owns, and they're asking would it be possible if—"
At this point, the point where any Doctor Who fan worthy of watching the show would jump in and ask "DOCTOR WHO?!?" Harmon does just that, getting a response that sounds kind of like
"Mmmmrmmm" from Schrab.
But Harmon pushes on: "You only do fancy eyebrow lifting if there's a Doctor Who character."
"I don't know what you're talking about", Schrab maintained. "That's a crazy leak that you just leaked. He just told us the first 26 pages of the movie!" joked Harmon and his co-host.
"Yeah, do you know how sued I'm gonna get?" Schrab countered. We hope he has a good lawyer and everything—but we really hope he's got something awesome in mind for the Doctor.


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The Victoria RingsThe Ava CollectionThe New York CollectionBridal Release 2019
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Australia's Top Wedding Dress Designers
There are a million and one choices when it comes to picking a wedding dress, and we often get asked by our customers who just bought an engagement ring, who we recommend as a wedding dress designer; so where should a 'bride to be' begin?
To make things a little easier we've brought together a list of Australia's finest wedding dress designers.
From the luxurious laces of Anna Campbell to the minimalist glam of Johanna Johnson, the Australian bridal design scene has something for everyone.
We've got the down low on who to look to for creativity and inspiration for that all-important dress.
Read on to see who's who of our picks, of Australian talent in wedding design!
1. J'Aton Couture
J'Aton Couture has been creating unique gowns from Prahran, Melbourne since 1995. A favourite among Australian celebrities (think Rebecca Judd's glorious gown),
prize-winning duo Jacob Luppino and Anthony Pittorino met at a Melbourne fashion college in 1989. It hasn't always been easy going though; the pair worked for 15 years in the suburbs of Melbourne before they became a household name in the bridal fashion world. J'Aton Couture has a reputation for attention to detail; think sexy sheer lace, hand beading and intricate details.
As the boys themselves say, "We dress woman through the eyes of Men".
Embodying a unified vision of design stemming from an insatiable desire to create, the J'Aton signature style is a lavish juxtaposition between contrasting elements- the avant- garde and the classic;
the opulent and the raw; the masculine and the feminine; the past and the present.
(Image courtesy of http://www.jatoncouture.com/
Photograph by Jennifer Stenglein)
2. Anna Campbell
If you want a luxurious, elegant, feminine, and romantic feel for your wedding day, then Anna Campbell is your designer. With gowns that sparkle with decadent embellishments over soft tulles and silk chiffons,
or dresses of delicate laces with floating trains, there is something truly mesmerising about an Anna Campbell dress. No matter which kind of bride you may be, when you slip into your Anna Campbell wedding dress you will feel timeless but not traditional, glamorous but elegant. Anna Campbell creates breathtaking dresses and sparkling accessories, inspired by Old Hollywood glamour and vintage romance, all ethically handmade in Melbourne Australia.
(Image courtesy of www.annacampbell.com.au,
Photographed by Lost in Love Photography)
Wear it with 'Gemma' Pendant by Moi Moi Fine Jewellery
3. Maggie Sotero
Maggie Sotero's stunning dresses are the culmination of four generations of artistry. Her work captures the imaginations of brides around the world by fusing classic,
romantic silhouettes with modern, alluring details. The Maggie Sotero collections draw inspiration from all over, some are designed with the classic, romantic bride in mine, while the Sotero and Midgley collection pushes the edges of bridal fashion with bold, contemporary statement and cuts (pictured).
(Image courtesy of www.maggiesottero.com)
4. Steven Khalil
Steven Khalil's designs embody elegance and beauty. In his collection you'll find sheer cut-aways, bold lace sequinning, eye-catching shapes and fine tulle. All his work combines classical elements with a fresh, contemporary edge. Steven's talent and hard work was recognised young when, a few years out of fashion school, he became head designer at the tender age of 22.
In 2003 he established his own fashion house in Paddington, Sydney and hasn't looked back since.
(Image courtesy of http://www.stevenkhalil.com)
5. Paolo Sebastian
At just 26 years old, Adelaide's Paolo Vassilef (the designer behind Paolo Sebastian) has already made waves in the bridal fashion world, designing for the likes of Giuliana Rancic, Sonja Kruger and Carrie Bickmore. His dresses are unique and aimed to highlight the beauty of each individual who wears them. His work encapsulates a stunning blend of bold, high fashion with delicate beauty. Combining flawless technical tailoring with tiny hand-sewn details, every dress exudes timeless elegance.
(Image courtesy of paolosebastian.com)
6. Johanna Johnson
For the bride who's too smooth to look like a princess, Johanna Johnson's gowns are the embodiment of minimalist, art-deco inspired glam. If you're seeking a simple, sleek and graceful dress then she's the designer for you. Her designs feature smooth silks, and minimal but eye-catching beading and draw inspiration from 1920s glam, with drop waists and beautifully beaded shift gowns. They'd be perfectly paired with a 1920s style beaded headband. Popular with international celebrities (she's dressed Madonna, Angelina Jolie and Meryl Streep!), Johanna Johnson has boutiques in Sydney, London and New York.
(Image courtesy of johannajohnson.com)
Keep it simple with 'Tabitha 1.5' ring by Moi Moi Fine Jewellery
7. Mariana Hardwick
Think shape flattering, fine-boned corsets and it's all about the drape and texture. Melbourne-based, Mariana Hardwick has been in the business for 30 years, and she knows exactly how to strike the balance between grandeur and couture artfulness. Hardwick's dresses feature complete lace, nude looks, and just a hint of colour, making them truly unique.
Based in Melbourne, Mariana Hardwick's Bridal Nouveau Collection is available in some of the best bridal boutiques in the country and the world.
(Image courtesy of marianahardwick.com.au)
8. Jennifer Regan
After graduating from the Sydney Institute Ultimo and East Sydney Fashion Design Studio, Jennifer Regan has taken her experience in fashion design, costume design, pattern making and couture processes to craft signature bridal gowns. Her trademark is that perfect combination of luxury, simplicity and fine detailing. Encouraging every bride to embrace and enhance her individuality,
Regan uses nothing but the best European laces and luxurious silks, and works with a dedicated team of artisans.
"Unique design is my passion", says Jennifer. "My mission is to create beauty – and I am rewarded every day when I watch a woman step into one of my creations and they realise this is the one'".
(Images courtesy of www.jenniferregan.com.au)
9. Lilli Marcs
If you're after lustrous fabrics that float gracefully across your wedding dance floor, then look no further than Lili Marcs. With 20 years of experience, Lili Marcs designs range from the minimal and simple,
to the luxuriously embellished – there is truly something for every bride. Quality is the highest priority with the best silk and lace imported directly from Europe.
We asked Lilli a few questions:
What do you love about designing wedding gowns?
Making a brides dreams come true on their special day is what I truly love. It's such a privilege to be able to join them on their journey towards their happily ever after.
Every bride is different and l love to listen to their story to understand their wedding ideas and aspirations. With this in mind I work collaboratively with each and every bride to design their own unique gown.
What is your trademark look?
My own design collection definitely has a signature look. Recently described by Luxury Weddings as the couture queen of slinky bridal gowns, my gowns are designed to highlight and flatter a woman's natural silhouette. The backs of my gowns are just as important as the front and low feature backs are a theme throughout. This combined with exquisite detailing, beading and only the finest laces and fabrics make a gown from Lilli Marcs truly unique.
What is your inspiration when designing wedding gowns?
Inspiration can come from many different areas; from the materials I work with such as new fabrics, laces and beading to the desire to help a bride's hopes and aspirations for their perfect day come true. I love the hollywood screen legends such as Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly, their timeless style and simple elegance is definitely echoed in my design collection. The Gatsby inspired 1920's is also a source of inspiration. My gowns often feature beautiful beading from fully encrusted gowns to beaded shoulder accents, embellished gowns really can make you feel like Hollywood royalty.
(Images courtesy of www.lillimarcs.com.au)
10. Leah Da Gloria
Leah started out with the Sydney Institute of Design. After graduating in 2007 she refined her skills with some of Australia's most distinguished labels before launching the Leah Da Gloria brand in 2012.
Since then there's been no looking back. Her dresses fuse sleek, luxe gowns with ornate embellishment. Leah Da Gloria specialises in custom-designed gowns, hand-crafted at her studio in Sydney.
(Image courtesy of www.leahdagloria.com.au)
11. Sant Elia
If you want to push the boundaries, then Sant Elia, with their signature touch of cheekiness, might just be for you. Drawing inspiration from dark, musing European subcultures,
SANT ELIA's Stephanie Caltabiano Cherrington, has an edgy European undercurrent that harks back to her European roots. These dresses are nothing if not lavish! Cherrington specialises in bridal lace, and her craftsmanship is reflected in the detailed embroidering, fringing and 3D floral lace throughout her collections.
(Image courtesy of santelia.com.au)
'Evangeline' Rose Gold Ring by Moi Moi Fine Jewellery
Spoilt for choice!
The Australian 'bride to be' is truly spoilt for choice when it comes to the creativity and talent of home-grown wedding designers.
Whether you draw inspiration from the sleek, minimalist looks, the flattering silhouettes or the exquisite detailing, Australian wedding designers really do have that perfect look for every bride.
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Dear Bubby,
I picked you up from day four of preschool today. You seem to like it. You don't even take time to kiss me good-bye when I drop you off. But today you ran to me when I got there with a big smile on your face, so that (almost) makes up for it.
Your teacher, Mrs. McA., stopped me and said, "You know, he's really sharp."
Then she proceeded to tell me the thing you did today that impressed her so much. It made my heart swell with pride because, well, I taught you those things, and because all mommies like to hear good things about their kids.
I'm glad you are smart, Bubby. It makes many things very easy for you and for me. It also makes things exhausting, especially in this "Why is_____?" phase you are in. I love it and hate it all at the same time.
But I want you to know, Bubby, that there are more important things than being sharp. I love the way you look out for your brother. I love that you tell Daddy that Bug needs a turn for a horsie ride, and I love that you get more excited for his turn than for your own. I love that you tell me Bugaboo needs a snack, if you happen to get yours first. I love that you told me on Monday that he needs to go to preschool, too. When I told you not yet, he's too little, you responded, "He's bigger now." Your kindness melts your mommy's heart.
And being kind is more important than being sharp. I pray you will always be known for your heart.


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6/6/2019 8:30 PM (Thursday)
7/25/2019 11:00 PM (Thursday)
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Sundance Square Movie Night returns this summer featuring seven movies celebrating current releases with entertaining animation, drama, fantasy and comedy. Returning for the 12thyear, Sundance Square kicks off the free movie series on Thursday evenings in the plaza June 6 continuing through July 25.
All shows will begin approximately at 8:30 p.m. in Sundance Square Plaza, in downtown Fort Worth. Sundance Square's digital screen offers guests a dynamic sight and sound for the best outside movie experience. Sundance Square's 2019 Movie Night schedule includes:
June 6 – Secret Life of Pets (2016); rated PG
June 13 – Black Panther (2018); rated PG-13
June 20 – Mary Poppins Returns (2018); rated PG
June 27 – Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018); rated PG
July 11 – Crazy Rich Asians (2018); rated PG-13
July 18 – Dr. Seuss' The Grinch (2018); rated PG
July 25 – Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again (2018); rated PG-13
Moviegoers are invited to bring blankets or chairs for seating in the plaza. Beverages will be available for purchase in the plaza during the movies and restaurants will be open throughout the evening. Coolers and outside food or drink are not permitted, and Sundance Square Plaza is smoke-free. Parking is always free weekdays after 5 p.m. in Sundance Square's parking garages. For locations, visit sundancesquare.com/parking. For more information about movie nights, please visit sundancesquare.com.


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Ooty is the Sachin Tendulkar of hill stations. Everyone loves it, irrespective of the age, caste or gender. This South Indian holiday destination is one fabulous place which bridges the geographical divide between the south and the north, making people from as far as Delhi and Rajasthan to fly away into the nature-filled arms of the Nilgiris.
Ooty has, for many, become synonymous with memories, with childhood, with solitude, with nostalgia. You can move around with your family in Ooty (there are countless places to visit in Ooty for family), you can take a hike with friends, you can go for trekking or camping with a bunch of backpackers, and you could simply climb over to the Dodabetta (the highest peak in the region) and stare eye-to-eye at the sinking sun. But when you need some private time out, then Ooty will lend you that solitude which is so hard to find in our metro cities. Ooty shall withdraw itself and leave you amidst your most intimate soliloquies so that you can reflect about life and about olden times.
As for the sightseeing attractions, Ooty serves you a dollop of romance with lakes like the Emerald and Ooty Lake. Its tranquil gardens like the Botanic Gardens hold a number of attractions to marvel at. Avalanche Lake is another tourist spot and the good old Stone House can give your cameras some vintage fodder. St. Stephen's Church has a warm endearing quality about it. It is an old church and its unassuming yet daunting build can hold your hands and take you back to the old era.
Romantic honeymoon packages are churned out by holiday planners keeping in mind the various needs of the tourists. Without having to overspend and without having to hassle yourself, you can go for this trip. It will be a simple promenade to a poetic land; a walk to remember this summer. Indeed!


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THE NATIONALISTS AT TAIPEI need no reminder that one of the best-loved American saints is Santa Claus; but the Formosans think he may be something of a fraud.
The military policy change in June, 1950, brought with it a major adjustment of economic support programs. In a sense the Americans took over where the Japanese had left off, but there was an immense amount of work to be done to recover the losses which had been sustained in the tragic five-year interval. It should not be forgotten that fifty years of Japanese investment - an investment of administrative skills as well as money - had prepared the foundations for the Sino-American achievement. This is sometimes overlooked in the propaganda designed to put "Free China" before the world as a shining example of successful "international" cooperation.
From 1950 onward there was an outpouring of printed matter describing and praising projects undertaken with American initiative and paid for with American funds. Books, brochures, pamphlets and mimeographed throw-aways were usually paid for with program funds and were designed to keep the Congressional appropriations pump well primed.
The Rankin memoirs offer a summary of aid programs which came under the Embassy's general supervision. The so-called Conlon Report prepared for the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in 1959 provides a more detailed analysis.
When Mr. Rankin reached Formosa in August, 1950, there were fewer than three hundred Americans on the island and the available program funds were a mere $20,000,000. In 1952 a total Of $300,000,000 became available and by then Parkinson's Law had begun to work. When Mr. Rankin prepared to leave Formosa in 1957 there were about 10,000 Americans present in an official capacity. There were other hundreds engaged in private enterprise. Commodore Perry's old dream of a Sino-American administration of the Formosan economy, outlined in 1853, seemed about to be realized.
The Ambassador estimates that the total American investment in military and economic aid for the period 1950-1957 had reached two billion American dollars. The Conlon Report notes that in terms of per capita investment Formosa received much greater aid than any other country served by an American program anywhere in the world. For the Nationalists these were indeed the Seven Fat Years.
With such an enormous investment in such a small area it is not surprising that the total agrarian and industrial output rose rapidly. Statistics presented to visiting Congressmen were usually set forth to show percentage increases after 1949. Few opportunities were seized to note that production levels in the period 1945-1949 had dropped far below prewar Japanese production levels and in some instances had sunk to the production levels of 1895. Nor were VIP's often reminded that as total production moved back to prewar levels and then gradually surpassed them, the total population on Formosa had nearly doubled since the surrender. By 1959 it was moving beyond ten million with a growth rate Of 3-5 per cent annually. Not much was said of the fact that mainland refugees, members of the armed forces, the government and the Party were nonproducers. All had to be supported by the Formosan farmer.
There was never much left at home when the tax-collector had taken his share.
Formosan friends who wrote to me at this time expressed deep appreciation of American effort to improve economic conditions but pointed out that the net result was to strengthen the hold which the refugees had upon the economy. The greater part of Formosa's industrial establishment had passed into mainland Chinese hands thanks to the postwar confiscation policies. Every American dollar used to subsidize the major industries became a contribution to the unnamed Chinese investors, shadowy figures in the background. The Formosans believed that chief among them was T. V. Soong and other members and associates of the "royal family."
There was undoubtedly a continuity of management of the national and local finance dating back to 1927. During the exodus Of 1949-1950 Kung and Soong had left China for the United States and official retirement, but the men who assumed direction of economic affairs on Formosa had been their close associates for many years. O.K. Yui, a graduate of St. John's University at Shanghai, had been variously Managing Director of the Central Trust, Vice Minister and Minister of Finance in the National Government, Managing Director of the Bank of China and deeply involved with other large banking interests, all dominated by Kung and Soong. On Formosa Yui succeeded Yen Chia-kan at the Bank of Taiwan, then became Governor and at last Premier or President of the Executive Yuan. Yen, too, had become Minister of Finance, then Governor, and (succeeding Yui) Premier of the National Government. It was a game of musical chairs in which the Formosans were not invited to take part.
These were the men who continued to handle American aid to Formosa after 1950 as they had handled it in wartime China, working now very closely with the large American Aid mission.
Formosans agree that under Governor Wu there was a great improvement in the administration of law and of economic affairs. Foreign observers agree that graft, corruption and the grosser forms of nepotism were significantly reduced. It was standard practice, however, for mainland Chinese to imply to foreign visitors that Formosans were a rather backward or provincial lot, and that Formosa's technological development was for the most part a Chinese achievement since 1945. Under the circumstances members of the aid missions readily adopted the official line; aid propaganda brochures asserted that the United States was providing "Fuel for the Good Dragon" and mission members talked of their work in terms of the big push back to the mainland. Aid to the native Formosans was a side issue and they knew it.
On the mainland an abusive traditional Chinese landlord system had long been recognized as a prime source of peasant discontent. The Nationalists had talked of reform but for years had done nothing on a significant scale. The Communists exploited these unfulfilled promises to woo support among the landless peasants. Very late - after World War II - American advisors in China had persuaded the Nationalist Government to organize a Sino-American Joint Commission on Rural Reconstruction. It made little headway on the mainland, for its reform program disturbed too many great landholders who were influential members of the Nationalist Party, Army and Government. They would not tolerate change. The JCRR, as it was called, was transferred to Formosa during the great retreat.
In Formosa it could surge ahead with its land redistribution plans. The Formosan landholders were fair game; no one in the Government or Party hierarchy was hurt by land reform except perhaps those who had acquired extensive property under the Chen Yi and Wei administrations.
American aid-program literature gives exceptional prominence to two measures sponsored by the JCRR. The Land Rental Reduction Program which was written into law on May 25, 1951, said that henceforth the tenant-farmer shall not pay more than 37.5 per cent of his crop or crop-value as rental on his leasehold. The American literature calls this a magnificent achievement and a generous reform, but it usually implies that the Formosan tenant-farmer had suffered exorbitant rent-rates before the Chinese came in to liberalize the system. In point of fact the Japanese had established rent controls and land-courts before the war. The exorbitant rents being so handsomely reduced in 1951 had been exacted from the Formosan peasant after the Chinese took control in 1945.
The second great achievement, according to aid-program literature, was the so-called Land-to-the-Tiller program set in motion in 1953. Every farmer who held more than three hectares of middle-grade paddy field (about 7.5 acres) or six hectares of dry field was compelled to sell his surplus land to the Government. He was paid 70 per cent of the price in "land bonds" and 30 per cent in stock in govemment-owned industries - principally industries which had been confiscated in 1945.
Thousands of Formosans were grateful for the opportunity to become landowners or to add a little to their small holdings, even though they found it difficult to obtain chemical fertilizers and had very little rice left when the tax-collector was finished with them. But for thousands of Formosans the Land-to-the-Tiller program brought a sharp reduction in their modest standards of living. Many suspect that the program was designed as much to destroy the base of the emergent middle class (the class which produced the leaders of 1947) as it was to aid the landless peasant.
Few Formosans - very few - had great landholdings before 1945, but there were many who had enough income to support them in comfort at home, to invest in small shops or businesses in the towns, and to send bright sons and daughters on to higher schools and to the universities in Japan. Now they were forced to accept bonds and stocks which taken together could not produce income equal to the income lost when private land was taken up by the Government. Furthermore, they were well aware that govemment-owned industries were generating salaries and dividends for the privileged managerial staff who were predominantly Chinese. From one of my former students came a letter touching on the subject and dated August 28, 1953.
... Taiwan has changed very much since [1945]. 90% of Taiwanese become poor and poor. I've lost all my fields during these years ... the Government took up and sold them to "tillers." We can't pay daily expenses with salary, which is less than $50 a month. Thus we can't educate our children.
There are two ways; one is to go abroad and don't go back to Formosa, the other is to get a job in American office, as Mr. ___ did. As for me, I don't want [to stay] in Formosa where there is no freedom, no hope. [1]
I am inclined to accept this at face value, for in a letter to Assistant Secretary of State Dean, Rusk Ambassador Rankin reported that "due to rapid population growth and to the much more rigorous collection of taxes from the largely agricultural population" some American experts in the Aid Mission were convinced that "the average inhabitant of this island is worse off economically than he was a year or two ago . . . "
While the tax-collector's rice sacks were being filled so bountifully what was happening elsewhere in General MacArthur's contented democracy, where representative government prevailed, the courts were in good order and the standard of living so high?
The appointment of Dr. K. C. Wu to the governorship in the last days of 1949 had been a desperate but successful effort to restore American confidence and to ensure a continuing flow of American aid. Dr. Wu had moved promptly, boldly and with vigor to institute political as well as economic reforms. At the top of the list was his program to grant some measure of political expression to the Formosan people. He must gain the confidence of the native islanders. The Nationalist refugees would need Formosan help if the Chinese Communists one day moved against the island in force.
Wu's liberal views were well known. He was never a great favorite with the Generalissimo, and between the Governor and the Heir Apparent there was a wall of mutual dislike and mistrust. Now Wu, with great courage, dared to tell the Generalissimo of his son's extreme unpopularity. Ching-kuo had instituted a reign of fear throughout the island, using the secret services, the police and the political commissars in a ruthless attempt to secure absolute submission to Party, Army and Government. The Governor warned the Generalissimo that the Formosan majority were being estranged to a dangerous degree.*
General Chiang Ching-kuo on his part believed Wu was making dangerous concessions and that liberal gestures were no longer needed. Now that the Republicans had come to power in Washington (in January, 1953) American aid was assured; Wu had served his purpose. But more than that Ching-kuo had lost face before his father the Generalissimo. No liberal civilian could embarrass General Chiang Ching-kuo with impunity. Wu must go.
On April 3, 1953, the Governor narrowly escaped assassination. On April 10 he was dismissed but was given permission to leave Formosa. There was a second attempt on his life. It is said that when Madame Chiang learned of a plot to waylay Wu en route to the airport she intervened with the Generalissimo, pointing out what serious repercussions this would have in America.
Dr. and Mrs. Wu were required to leave their young son a hostage at Taipei. The former Governor retired to Evanston, Illinois, and there kept silent for thirteen months. At last influential Americans persuade the Generalissimo to permit the boy to apply for a passport and to leave Formosa.
When the lad was safely away Wu spoke out. In a series of "open letters" to the National Assembly at Taipei he sought to alert the Assembly to the need for genuine reform if "Free China" were to survive. He noted Chiang Ching-kuo's dangerous ambition to succeed his father despite constitutional provision for succession to the Presidency of China. His letters reviewed Ching-kuo's "political commissar" system which was undermining the morale of the Army, a system which he and his father had borrowed from Red Russia. He reviewed Ching-kuo's abuse of police authority and his campaign to generate fear everywhere as a means to secure absolute obedience. He noted that neither the Formosans nor the mainland Chinese refugees had guarantee of individual rights, freedom of assembly and publication or the right of free speech. It was a powerful indictment.
The former Governor asked the National Assembly to publish his six-point analysis of the Taipei dictatorship. Chiang quite naturally suppressed it and accused Wu--rather belatedly of "dereliction of duty," "corruption in office" and "treason."
From Evanston Wu replied that he would be glad to stand trial in an American or an international court but never in a court set up by Chiang. He then addressed a new series of questions to the National Assembly and the Generalissimo, each designed to illumine an aspect of the Gestapo organization which ensures proper public attitudes in "Free China."
In an attempt to rouse Americans to some recognition of conditions on Formosa the former Governor published a vigorous account of his experiences with Ching-kuo and in passing called Peng Meng-chi Chiang's "hatchet-man." The article entitled "Your Money is Building a Police State in Taiwan" appeared in Look Magazine on June 29, 1954. But this was the McCarthy Era and the period of growing crisis concerning the offshore islands where--if Mr. Dulles were to be believed--Chiang Kai-shek was nobly defending American democracy. Wu's voice was drowned in the clamor for more aid for Chiang.
K. C. Wu's fate served warning that Chiang Ching-kuo would brook no opposition in high places. With the liberal Governor disposed of Chiang's security officers turned their attention to a liberal General who had been given prominence in the "reform" period, General Sun Li-jen, Commander-in-Chief of the Chinese Army.
American correspondents had heard Formosans say that Wu and Sun were two mainland Chinese leaders they felt they could trust to give Formosans a "fair deal." This praise had been dutifully reported in the American press. From there it went back to Taipei by way of the clipping services.
Sun freely expressed his belief that Formosan youths made good recruits and took pains to ensure fair treatment for them in the ranks. He, too, realized that one day the refugee Nationalists might need Formosan loyalty. He was also known to believe that Taipei should look first to the defenses of Formosa and should perfect them before venturing overseas to "retake" the continent. It was well known that among foreigners General Sun was the most popular Nationalist officer, that members of the American military mission considered him the finest professional in the Chinese Army and that he enjoyed Washington's full confidence.
Added up, these presented to Chiang Ching-kuo's eyes a most formidable challenge. Ching-kuo is not a regular Army man, a product of the Chinese military academies, but an interloper in the military establishment, raised to favor by his father. Even in 1955 he was holding key positions, however, and could ruin any officer and any member of the Government. He was master of the secret services, controlled the Youth Corps and the Veterans' League and was Director of the Political Department in the Army with commissars or spies in every subdivision of the military organization. From Ching-kuo's point of view if General Sun enjoyed American support and had the loyalty of the Formosan conscripts he was a dangerous man.
Sun made the mistake Wu had made. He found occasion to protest --politely, of course--that Ching-kuo's political commissars seriously interfered with regular Army operations, morale and discipline.
In midyear 1955 the Generalissimo had occasion to stage an elaborate military review in honor of General Maxwell D. Taylor, USA. The American Ambassador was present. Several reckless and dissatisfied young officers seized this opportunity suddenly to push forward with a petition in which they set out grievances. Chiang was furious. On the spot General Sun was relieved of his command, held responsible, and placed under restraint. Then followed an inquiry conducted chiefly by Chiang Ching-kuo's agents. General Sun soon found himself charged with "harboring Communists" in his vast military organization.
He was placed on trial knowing full well that whatever the "evidence" was it could be twisted readily enough and could lead to the firing squad. The court-martial, however, found him not guilty of Communist association or conspiracy but of "culpable negligence." None of Sun's American colleagues would have accepted a "red conspiracy" charge at face value hence he could not be done away with out-of-hand. It was certainly not wise to let him leave Formosa as Wu had done. He was sent off, under Chiang Ching-kuo's surveillance, to retirement at a small house far from the capital, where Ambassador Rankin observed him "tending roses."
A bit of truth was visible through the curtain of words surrounding the trial for the indictment had included not only charges of "culpable negligence" and "harboring Communists" but also an allegation that Sun had "built up a personal clique" for his own advancement.
To discourage any demonstrations of sympathy some three hundred of Sun's officers were arrested in the case - quite enough to chill any desire in the Army to speak out or act thereafter in Sun's favor. The Generalissimo chose Ching-kuo's trusted associate General Peng Meng-chi to take Sun's place as Commander-in-Chief.
After attending a meeting of the Committee on Foreign Relations one day Senator William Fulbright rose in the Senate Chamber to declare with some heat that "What we want and what we will support is the truth. What we want and what we will support is a Secretary of State who will not treat us as children ready to clap in delight at every fairy story, however fanciful."
He was speaking of Mr. Dulles and his views were shared in many capitals around the world. From the public record it is indeed difficult to know which story-of-the-moment to accept when we search for his basic policies toward Formosa.
No American leader was more outspoken in his condemnation of Peking and all its works and none could surpass Mr. Dulles in lauding the high moral purpose, dedicated leadership, and world importance of Chiang Kai-shek and his associates at Taipei. His record for "brinkmansbip" needs no comment here; who could doubt then that Mr. Dulles considered the Nationalists to be America's most important allies? The Secretary was not one to walk softly.
As we sift through the record, however, we see that Mr. Dulles in truth thoroughly undermined Chiang's legal position on Formosa and skillfully blocked his plans for a large-scale continental venture. While talking non- recognition of Communist China it was he who flew to Europe to confer with China's Foreign Minister Chou En-lai. It was Mr. Dulles who arranged the ambassadorial meetings in Europe through which Peking and Washington continue to keep in touch and at which the Formosa problem can be discussed.
The conferences between ambassadors from Washington and Peking take place behind closed doors far from Taipei. The Nationalists resent them, wondering if their claims upon China proper and Formosa are being discussed or compromised in any way. Formosan independence leaders in exile likewise mistrust these meetings and wonder if Washington seeks a formula through which (after Chiang's death) the island may be "negotiated" into a state of neutrality and from a state of neutrality in due course be transferred to Peking, thus restoring "the territorial integrity of China."
It will be recalled that the State Department held unwaveringly to the view that China's territorial integrity must be respected and that Formosa must be restored promptly by treaty signatures. This was the official position on April 8, 1950, when Mr. Truman invited Mr. Dulles to become Foreign Policy Advisor to the Secretary of State. Then came the June crisis - the Korean affair - and the President's statement that "the determination of the future status of Formosa must wait the restoration of security in the Pacific, a peace settlement with Japan, or consideration by the United Nations." On September 8 Mr. Dulles was directed to negotiate the Peace Treaty. He had therefore to steer a diplomatic course through very choppy waters. It was an extraordinary performance, for henceforth his fervent public statements and his "brinkmanship" seemed entirely to support Chiang's territorial claims, but his official acts and hidden negotiations had quite a different purpose.
He soon found a formula which enabled him to circumvent or cancel out that unfortunate "territorial integrity" commitment. He first proposed that Japan should merely relinquish sovereignty there, after which the island's permanent status would be determined by the United States, the United Kingdom, Soviet Russia and China acting together on behalf of nations signing the Treaty. If these four Powers could not agree within one year the question should then be taken into the UN Assembly.
The Generalissimo would never accede to this and Communist China was not a member of the UN nor among the nations summoned to San Francisco. In midyear 1951 Mr. Dulles let it be known that the Nationalists, too, were not invited and would not sign the Treaty. Thus at San Franciso, Japan was divested of her sovereign rights in Formosa. Title was surrendered to the forty-eight nations who signed the Treaty, to be held in trust by them until the final issue can be settled in the UN Assembly at some future time. The Treaty came into effect in 1952 and there the matter stands.
Taipei announced that it would not consider itself bound by any provisions affecting its interests. As for feeling bound by President Truman's earlier embargo on provocative crosschannel military action Chiang had long since displayed indifference. Ambassador Rankin notes that there were frequent hit-and-run forays to the China coast; Americans at Taipei conveniently looked the other way.
Upon entering office in 1953 President Eisenhower promptly fulfilled Republican campaign promises to lift the ban. It was well known, however, that he too wanted to minimize the dangers of a full-scale war along the China coast. Perhaps he thought Chiang's military advisors could control the situation by controlling military supply.
Chiang (and not a few of his American friends) had other ideas. He was determined to provoke an open conflict between the United States and Communist China. No other conclusion can be drawn from the pattern of subsequent events. Throughout 1953 the number of cross-channel raids increased in number. The Nationalist Air Force extended the range of attack to reach inland cities and industrial targets. Significantly there were no visible efforts to "go it alone."
Soon the world's attention was fastened on Quemoy and the Matsu base - the offshore islands. As Chiang built up his installations on Quemoy with an immense amount of publicity the Chinese Communists developed highways and railways leading into the coastal area and began a build-up there to block any Nationalist attempt to cross the Quemoy water barrier in force.
But still Washington would not agree to support offensive action on a large scale. The Nationalist propaganda campaign within the United States was being pushed to an extreme and was generating an extraordinary pressure upon the Eisenhower Administration. At midyear 1954 Chiang attempted to tip the scales by a move of extraordinary boldness. Nationalist naval units with air support captured a Polish freighter and a Russian tanker in waters near Formosa. This was not a hit-and-run strike against Communist fishing craft along the coast but an act of piracy on the high seas. This was brinkmanship of a new order.
At what point here would Moscow's obligations to Peking overweigh Washington's commitments to Taipei?
President Eisenhower looked at his military maps with a professional eye and decided that the risks were becoming too great. On September 9 Mr. Dulles flew into Taipei for a five hour talk with the Generalissimo. He flew away again solemnly announcing that "China does not stand alone."
On December 2, at Washington, the Sino-American Defense Treaty was signed. In this new document the Nationalists promised to leap to the defense of the United States if it were attacked by a third party and the United States promised to defend Formosa and the Pescadores. It was reserved to the President of the United States to decide if the offshore islands meaning Quemoy and the Matsus - were to be defended with American help.
Chiang seemed to have agreed that the head of a foreign state could make decisions vital to Free China's welfare. Mr. Dulles on his part had shrewdly moved to sharpen the line of demarcation in the Straits.
The Generalissimo was not to be thwarted; to maintain his regime intact at Taipei he had to prove that he was on the offensive and that return to the homeland was imminent.
Violating the spirit and the intent of the new Treaty before it had been confirmed by the Congress, he stepped up offensive action far to the north in the Tachen islands lying between Formosa and the Yangtze River estuary.
This renewed and heightened the sense of crisis and the dangers of "brinkmanship" in early 1955. Under instructions from Washington Chiang's American advisors informed him that American naval units would help him withdraw from the Tachens but would not support him there in offensive action. Most reluctantly he ordered the evacuation of Nationalist forces and with them, willy-nilly, brought off some 14,000 Tachen villagers who had no interest whatsoever in being "liberate" in this manner. To them Formosa was foreign territory but they had no choice.
On March 3 the busy Secretary of State again appeared at Taipei to repeat and impress upon the Generalissimo the President's desire to reduce dangerous tensions in the area. For publie reassurance there were formal statements and clouds of rhetoric concerning partnership in defense of Free China and the Free World. The Nationalists were assured again that if Washington deemed an attack on Quemoy or the Matsus a direct threat to Formosa or the Pescadores then all restraints upon Nationalist action would be lifted.
Mr. Dulles needed that clear-cut territorial definition if he were to bargain with Peking. He let it be known by indirection that Communist China might have the offshore islands if it would not attempt to take them by force.
Thereafter there continued to be a great many verbal pyrotechnics and not a little smoke and fire concerning Quemoy. But has Peking at any time been serious there? Certainly the Communists would resist any Nationalist attempt to advance beyond the water barriers, but otherwise the situation worked well to Peking's advantage. If the Communists succeeded in taking Quemoy they would be faced with the need to make good promises to take Formosa as well and that endeavor would certainly mean the quick destruction of Chinese cities and industrial concentrations everywhere in China. They gave some indication of their contempt for Chiang's position when they instituted the ridiculous Monday-Wednesday-Friday bombardment schedule at Quemoy as if daring Chiang to waste his resources on Tuesdays, Thurdays and Saturdays.
Meanwhile the Nationalists used Quemoy as a major propaganda resource. An enterprising Formosan once counted the published records of more than two thousand foreign visitors flown over from Taipei within a short space of time to see how seriously Chiang is determined to "retake" the continent. At Tokyo Formosans speak of the offshore islands as "Chiang's Quemoy-Matsu National Park." Mr. Dulles was photographed there, looking grimly impressed.
Formosan leaders in exile watched all of this with close attention. They appreciated Dulles's efforts to sever the links with the mainland but they were baffled by fulsome praise of Chiang's moral leadership in the Free World and of Formosa as a symbol shining before all freedom-loving peoples. They were aware of Mr. Dulles's occasional hints that UN action and a plebiscite might provide solution for the Formosa problem; none knew what form the plebiscite might take nor what choices might be placed before the Formosan people.
As Formosa's "Republican Decade" drew to a close the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations at Washington determined to probe the realities of the American position in Asia if this could be done. A team of specialists was asked to bring in a report on the facts and an analysis of the problems.**
On November 1, 1959, the Senate Committee published the Conlon Report. [2] This dispassionate and orderly presentation provided a fresh breeze to disperse the clouds of diplomatic and military rhetoric through which the Foreign Relations Committee had been so long groping its way. The basic issues could never be quite so confused again.
The emergence of a strong Communist China was recognized by the reporting specialists. Peking was rapidly establishing its claim to be a world power. It could no longer be described in Chiang's terms as a temporary accession of "bandits." To the population of 660 millions there must be added each year millions more. A highly developed organization of economic manpower and natural resources was backing up an army in excess of 2,500,000 men.
Against this formidable power unit the United States had been persuaded to pit Formosa with a deeply divided population and an army far too small to make headway on the mainland, but much too large for the island economy to support. Formosa, to keep afloat, was wholly dependent upon heavy American subsidies.
The Conlon Report noted the unrealistic military ambitions of the dominant minority, and the gap between this minority and the Formosan natives. It warned of Communist appeals to homesick mainland Chinese, urging them to come home where - Peking said -"all will be forgiven."
On the other hand, the Formosans want to stay on Formosa and for them to talk of "return to the mainland" is meaningless. Among the Formosans communism has little appeal; the local ideal is autonomy or independence under a guaranteed neutrality.
The Report examines and deflates the argument that Formosa as "Free China," has appeal for overseas Chinese living in other parts of Asia; it is scarcely a "rallying-point for freedomloving Chinese." It warned of the danger attending American insistence that Chiang's government is the "Government of China" and that Taipei alone can be recognized in the United Nations.
In presenting policy alternatives the authors suggested that the United States should cancel commitments involving the offshore islands and should see to it that the Nationalists withdraw. Disengagement there and a clear line of demarcation in the Straits are essential if policies are to be realistic and practical.
It was observed that if Formosa could be held neutral for a sufficient period the mainland refugees would be absorbed by the island people. On the other hand the Report warned that a serious crisis at some unexpected point might call for swift decisions at Washington. The succession problem is a major danger point.
An oblique reference to Chiang Ching-kuo and his clique was made in these words:
In the event of a bargain between some political leaders on Taiwan and the communists, to be sure, the United States might be placed in an extremely awkward position whereby it would have to decide hastily whether it should intervene in an attempt to protect the Taiwanese right of self-determination. [3]
The Conlon Report proposed a Republic of Taiwan under an American guarantee of its defense and of assistance to all mainland refugees who would wish to return to China proper or go elsewhere overseas. To propose the transfer of Formosa to Communist China in seeking a general settlement in Asia without the consent of the people on Formosa would be an "immoral act" and would seriously undermine American relations with all smaller countries who look to the United States for aid in maintaining independence.
The Taiwanese people themselves have given considerable indication of wishing to remain separate from the mainland and could be tested by plebiscite if this were agreed.
next chapter
contents of Formosa Betrayed
* Texts of Wu's later communications to the
Generalissimo and to the National Assembly on this subject are to
be found in Appendix II, pp. 480-486.
[Back to the text]
** The Conlon Associates group produced the
study under the title U.S. Policy Asia. Three University of
California specialists were the principal team members. Professor
Richard Park prepared the section on South Asia, Professor Guy
Pauker wrote the section on Southeast Asia and Professor Robert A.
Scalapino prepared the section on Northeast Asia, with subsections
on "Communist China and Taiwan."
[Back to the text]
1. Letter to Kerr, dated at Taipei, August 28, 1953.
2. [U. S. Govt. I Congressional Record - Proceedings and Debates of the 86th Cong., 2nd Sess. (Extract reprint, 1960) "Conlon Associates Report on Communist China and Taiwan. Extension of Remarks of Hon. Charles 0. Porter of Oregon, in the House of Representatives, Tuesday, January 19, 1960."
3. Ibid., p. 2,3.


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According to the reports from inside the Iranian regime, the Iraqi committee tasked with suppression of Ashraf, has already prepared the necessary facilities for the stay of Iranian regime's agents. Iraqi border guards have received the names of the agents so they would not face any difficulty entering Iraq.
Furthermore, in coming weeks a number of other agents will be dispatched from Fars province in southern Iran to Ashraf to replace returning agents.
While stipulating that the silence and inaction by the international community in this regard has persuaded the Iranian regime and the Iraqi forces to continue and intensify the blatant and systematic violations of international laws and conventions, the Iranian Resistance calls on United Nations, the U.S. and the EU for urgent action to end the psychological torture of Ashraf residents and calls for the permanent stationing of UN monitors in the camp to protect the residents and prevent the Iranian regime from carrying out its plans to annihilate them.
Secretariat of the National Council of Resistance of Iran
October 5, 2011


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Losing 200 lbs (90 kg) in 18 Months (21 pics)
18 months ago Harriet Jenkins, 25, weighed 364 lbs (165 kg). But a lot has changed since then. Harriet has joined a slimming group and 18 months later she lost 10 dress sizes. She has reached 161 lbs (73 kg), perfect weight for her 5ft 8in height. Harriet got the teaching job she dreamed about, and was named Slimming World's Woman of the Year.
Do you like it?


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David McCullough Jr. wants his students to stop expecting that everything will be handed to them. He wants the idea of 'everybody gets a trophy' to end.
The Wellesley (Mass.) High School English teacher gave a controversial -- yet somewhat needed -- commencement speech entitled 'You Are Not Special.' He advised students to drop the false sense of achievement paradigm that has emerged in modern society and schools.
So the relevance here lies in this: He told his students to not be like the Baltimore Orioles. His message encouraged students to avoid comparisons to mediocrity, and the O's were the parallel he drew.
"Statistics tell us half of you will get divorced," he said in the speech. "A winning percentage like that will get you last place in the American League East. The Baltimore Orioles do better than weddings."
"Don't bother with work you don't believe in any more than you would a spouse you're not crazy about, lest you too find yourself on the wrong side of a Baltimore Orioles comparison. Resist the easy comforts of complacency, the specious glitter of materialism, the narcotic paralysis of self-satisfaction."
For starters, an 81-win team doesn't finish in the cellar of any division, so McCullough's knowledge of baseball surely doesn't span as far as he believes. The Orioles haven't ended a season at or above .500 since 1997, so his less-than-stellar attempt at a comedic sports reference is factually incorrect. The Orioles really haven't been better than weddings in 15 years.
But now, things are looking a little different for baseball in Baltimore, yet they still get no love. Maybe the last decade-and-a-half of 60- and 70-win seasons has earned the Orioles a spot as a commencement-speech punching bag.
However, those same Orioles that McCullough attempts to mock sit just a game out of first place in the AL East and occupy the second of two wild-card spots in the American League.
Those same Orioles are currently four games up on the Boston Red Sox and have bested Bobby Valentine's squad six times in nine tries this season.
Those same Orioles dominated Boston last September, winning five of seven contests that month to help cement one of baseball's ultimate September collapses.
The Orioles haven't done much of anything yet. It's June, and there's plenty of games to be played. But still, Baltimore is witnessing some of the best baseball it has seen in more than a decade, led by an exciting young core of talent that is looking as bright as ever.
So by McCullough's message, kids shouldn't look back on their parents accomplishments and expect the same to happen to them. They shouldn't expect instant gratification for even the most miniscule achievements.
These Orioles don't have to look back and accept the mediocrity that has preceded them, but they shouldn't be complacent with success 60 games into a season.
McCullough wants his students to look ahead and pave a path for themselves. Perhaps he should have referenced the Orioles in regards to creating a future for themselves, instead of as a benchmark for failure, because it seems like exactly what this upstart group of ballplayers is doing.


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I was shocked and saddened yesterday to hear of Sir Terry Wogan's death. He seemed like a real gentleman and a very decent human being. Of course, one passing of a 77-year-old former BBC presenter should not outweigh all the many murdered, starved and drowned in our dark world, but I was moved to write a pair of limericks, which I believe is a fitting tribute to a man who hailed from Limerick and, by all account, was rather fond of his home town.
There once was a Sir named Terry
Who made us all very merry
With witty remarks
And humorous larks
On both radio and telly!
Our friend so sadly departed
Was warm, affable, big-hearted:
Helped children in need
Both with word and deed,
Let's advance this work undaunted.


text:
DeGeneres makes variety TV her cause in special
LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Ellen DeGeneres is bringing variety back to TV with the help of Kabuki Expert and Flag Man.
They're among the performers in DeGeneres' fourth variety special for TBS, "Ellen's Somewhat Special Special," which taped at the Chicago Theatre on Wednesday for broadcast later this month.
"I'm really excited about the acts this year," DeGeneres said before the show, which was to include a Q&A session with the audience and "different things."
Asked if that meant she would take part in some of the daring stunts, the comedian said it was possible, adding, "Coincidentally, I signed a big insurance policy."
Others appearing in the special include Lady Antebellum, Australian magician James Galea, Catwalk Acrobats and Nick Cannon. They join Japan's Kabuki Expert, creators of the clever Matrix Ping Pong video seen online, and Dominic Lacasse, an acrobat known as Flag Man.
Between sitcoms and before launching her daytime talk show, DeGeneres starred in a TV variety pilot that didn't make it onto a network schedule. Variety has largely fallen out of favor with viewers, but the comedian and "American Idol" judge won't give up on the concept.
"It just depends on how it's done," she said, citing the success of "America's Got Talent," the Simon Cowell-produced show on NBC. "You can't say an entire genre is obsolete."
"Ellen's Somewhat Special Special" is set to air 9 p.m. EDT Sunday, June 27, on TBS.
It's one of several shows being taped at the five-night Just for Laughs Festival staged by TBS in Chicago, which opened Tuesday and features more than 100 comedians, including Cedric The Entertainer, Denis Leary, Rob Corrdry, Aziz Ansari and Andy Richter with members of Conan O'Brien's writing staff.


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Directions1. Combine first six ingredients in a large bowl to make a salad and toss well. Set aside.
2. Combine sour cream, mayonnaise and taco seasoning, mix well and toss with salad.
3. Put corn chips in center of plate and top with lettuce.
4. Place chicken salad on top, then olives and tomatoes.
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Yield: 2.5 qt. (6.67 portions)


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If I could
live for 40 more years,
I want to enjoy a day at a time,
I would be more curious,
and less severe,
I will take a few more chances,
I want to explore more,
I would climb more mountains and see what is beyond;
and I will swim in the ocean and feel the waves beat against my body.
I want to grow and eat more cherry tomatoes ... and wild strawberries
I would perhaps have more actual troubles,
but I will be better equipped to face them.
I want more moments,
sense, wonder, linger and listen.
I will travel with even less storage,
I want to feel the wind rushing through my hair,
go barefoot and have my hands dirty.
go barefoot and have my hands dirty.
I also want to dance more!
I want to paint more!
But I would not ride more merry-go-rounds.
I would pick more violets.
And I want to start now!
Inspired by Don Herold, see previous post.


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The battle for the airfield will be extremely difficult for the 1st Marines. They are short-staffed and short-supplied.
But the battle for the Japanese will be equally hard. Their commander gives them a simply-worded order:
Rout, stab, kill and exterminate the enemy before daybreak.
It is 10 p.m. on the night of September 12th. The Japanese make their first charge. For two nights, they make bayonet charges. For two nights, the Marines respond with their weapons. Facing superior firing power is not the norm for Japanese soldiers at this stage of war in the Pacific.
Plus ... there is something else working against them. They have just completed a tiring, grueling trek through Guadalcanal's jungle. As a result, fewer soldiers than usual take part in each bayonet charge.
Yet ... the Japanese charges continue, in wave after wave of hurtling men with bayonets. Responding Marines can only do so much. Human arms - even for young, fit men - begin to tire after throwing so many grenades and firing so many bullets.
Positioned on the other side of the airfield, Marines in foxholes are dug in. They hear the screaming and firing and wait for their turn to fight. The waiting, for them, becomes extremely difficult. They cannot let-down their guard. They are not yet needed in the battle.
Disease (such as malaria) and exhaustion are also taking a significant toll on the Marines. That combination is becoming lethal, as fit-to-fight Marines diminish in number.
Edson's Ridge - where the bayonet charges are taking place (and named for Col. Merritt Edson) - will later be called "Bloody Ridge." At the end of all the fighting, the Marines have killed more Japanese than the Japanese have killed Marines.
The following month, Marine Sgt. John Basilone and the 7th Marines have arrived at Guadalcanal. On October 24, 1942, Basilone leads two squads of machine gunners to set up their positions at Edson's Ridge. The Japanese are trying to recapture the airfield, again.
Making their way through the jungle, again, the Japanese are unable to carry all their heavy artillery. The Marines, however, are also not in the best of shape.
Too-few Marines (about 700) have to cover too-large a territory (more than a mile) while holding-off around 3,000 (perhaps more) Japanese soldiers. In the Battle for Henderson Field, the Marines will be reinforced by 700 Army reservists.
So vital is the battle, to keep the airfield, that the Marines cannot give ground. They cannot turn and run. They must endure against overwhelming odds.
John Basilone knows machine guns. He knows how to keep them operating. He, and his fellow Marines, are incredibly brave. They have to be - they are facing equally brave opponents.
At 1:15 a.m., on October 25th, a group of Japanese soldiers reach the end of their trek through the jungle. Tired and disoriented, they are unaware that John Basilone, and his group of men and machine guns, are directly in front of them. They soon find out.
More than a hundred Japanese soldiers are quickly killed. But as they realize what is happening, they respond with their own charge and knock-out two American machine guns.
As Japanese soldiers keep coming, Basilone and his Marines are in trouble. They have to keep fighting, with only two machine guns left.
See, also:
Video Biography of John Basilone - SPOILER ALERT for end of "The Pacific"
Guadalcanal - War in the Pacific, Part 1
Guadalcanal - War in the Pacific, Part 2
Guadalcanal - War in the Pacific, Part 3
Guadalcanal - War in the Pacific, Part 5
Clip from "Shootout - WWII: Guadalcanal," online courtesy The History Channel.
Amy Huggins, Arthur Drooker and Darryl Rehr
Series Directors:
Amy Huggins, Brian Coughlin, Douglas Cohen, Laura Verklan and Tony Long
Series originally aired:
Series released on DVD:
A&E Home Video, May 2007
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Home > Island Scuba
If you are partial to beach dives the company that specializes in this on Maui is Island Scuba. Many people prefer the entry into the water on their dives to be from land rather than off a boat and Island Scuba has many different choices for you to enjoy. You can take a one-tank intro dive or a one-tank certified diver. In addition Island Scuba will also arrange a certification course for you with dives right off the beach. These cert classes require 2 eight-hour days in addition to all your independent study time. Everything is included in the course and when you finish you will be a certified diver and be able to take certified dives anywhere in the world.
If you are coming to Maui on a cruise ship then you need to make sure you browse our Maui cruise ship category before you make any reservations for activities during shore leave.
There are many wonderful scuba diving spots on Maui. Probably the best known is Molokini crater. Many people snorkel there but scuba divers have a much wider range.
Hawaii and surfing are inseparable to many people. After all, it was the sport of the ancient Hawaiians and is even more popular today. Maui's abundant coastline offers big waves for veteran surfers and spots suitable for beginners.
Surfing was a sport of the ancient Hawaiians and is even more popular in Maui today. Maui's abundant coastline offers big waves for surfing veterans and surfing spots suitable for beginners.


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Topic G continues the pattern established in Topics A, C, and E, incorporating numbers to 10 into their understanding of the number core.
Prekindergarten Mathematics, Module 3, Topic G: How Many Questions with up to 10 Objects
Downloadable Resources
Resources may contain links to sites external to the EngageNY.org website. These sites may not be within the jurisdiction of NYSED and in such cases NYSED is not responsible for its content.


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Plants Need Oxygen & Standing Water Is Not A Good Thing
From his Boardroom Yarn Series, David L. Doherty in his July/ August 2011column reminds us of a couple of agronomy truths.
My mentor 21-plus years ago was and is one of the most intelligent and knowledgeable people of the sports turf industry. His name is Leon Howard and his master's thesis, under the guidance of Dr. Marvin Ferguson at Texas A&M became the USGA specifications for the physical properties of sand based greens, which are still used today. While Leon and I were fabricating a piece of equipment for the lab those 20+ years ago, he stopped in the middle of welding a leg onto a frame, looked up at me and said, and I quote: "Dave, I don't know what you will learn with this research in the future, but I can tell you this for sure....... Plants need oxygen and standing water is not a good thing."
21 years later and after thousands of physical properties tests, I have learned two things. Plants need oxygen and standing water is not a good thing.
The USGA specifications [now referred to as recommendations] are designed to provide sufficient oxygen pores and water pores [pores are the spaces between the solids] the larger pores hold gasses [oxygen etc] and the smaller pores retain moisture thus assuring that the plant has a sufficient amount of oxygen to breath and a sufficient amount of moisture with which to cool itself.
In USGA greens there are drain tiles under the greens mix which are imbedded in trenches filled with gravel which remove excess water/moisture from the greens mix. If the physical properties of a green are in balance and if the drain tiles are not compromised than it is impossible to overwater a USGA green. Any water not held in the small pores travels through the larger pores downward from the pull of gravity into the drain tiles and is thus removed from the greens area.
Once the drain tiles are compromised [crushed, capped, filled with tree roots, cut etc.] water is trapped in the tiles and becomes anaerobic, producing CO2, methane and other bad guy gasses [sewer gas]. These gasses then travel up through the drain tiles and if those drain tiles are capped and the gasses cannot escape, they then travel up through the larger air pores in the greens mix to the surface and in many cases cannot escape due to a higher than desired organic matter content in the top inch or two of the greens mix. Even if the organic matter in the top inch or two of the greens mix is not on the high side the bad guy gasses have filled our larger pores replacing the oxygen the plant needs to breath and results in the plant being stressed and in many cases results in the plants death. What caused the plant to die?
A number of years ago when I started to realize that this lack of oxygen in the larger [air] pores was causing turf failure I started to work with superintendents throughout North America on ways to eliminate this cause of turf lose. This research has resulted in healthier turf and better putting surfaces, without, in most cases the necessity of purchasing expensive equipment.
The turf on the two greens mentioned was extremely stressed and the root system was very unhealthy and straggly. You will notice in the first picture the lack of soil/greens mix on the roots, indicating a lack of root hairs and an unhealthy plant. In the second picture you will notice a much denser root system with millions of root hairs holding the soil from the greens mix. This was accomplished by sealing off all of the outlets of the green except for one and in that one we inserted a back pack blower and blew air up through the drain tiles, which then traveled through the gravel layer and up through the larger air pores of the greens mix resulting in us being able to supply much needed oxygen to the plant. The healthier root system in the second picture was a result of the back pack blower being run for just one hour each morning for three mornings.
COST: Three guys, one day's labor to find the drain tiles.
RESULTS: Two healthy greens and many happy golfers.


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By Ron Richter on Sat 02/04/2012 06:30am
Posted in
Improvements continue at the Sheridan County Fairgrounds, as the Fair Association works on implementing parts of their modernization plan. Facilities Director Melissa Stirling says that drainage is something that has been an issue at the Fairgrounds for many years.
Stirling explains an item that the Board is considering regarding one of the arenas at the Fairgrounds.
Be sure to join us Monday, where we'll hear more from Stirling on a project that will help with security issues at the Fairgrounds.


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3420 Maple Ave
Directions Zanesville, OH 43701-1341
Tim McHugh Owner/President
Mike McHugh VP
Ken Wilson GM
3420 Maple Ave.
Zanesville, OH 43701-1341
Tel: 888-368-9313
Fax: 740-453-7631
Email: email@example.com
Website: www.mchughdodgejeep.com
From the desk of Tim McHugh
Hello everyone! I'd simply like to get right to the point of this letter and say, "THANK YOU"!
In this day and age where business's come and go, I am extremely humbled and grateful to our loyal customers who have supported our family business for over 54 years. When my father started this business back in 1963 he took a big chance moving us to the north end of Zanesville, which mostly consisted of farm fields and open land. Like most other organizations we've dealt with our fair share of ups and downs, but fortunately we've been blessed time and time again with an over abundance of repeat customers like you.
In an effort to show our gratitude to our loyal customers we usually offer 2 or 3 special incentives in our mailers that are only available to our previous customers. But please allow me to be perfectly clear when I say "We will do whatever it takes addressing whatever needs that you may have even if its not listed in our mailer.
As most of you already know my brother Mike and I are partners, my brother Kevin sells cars for us and my sister Kelly runs our business office. (I am also very proud of my little boy Mitchell who sometimes appears in my TV ads).
So on behalf of the entire family once again let me say "thank you" for your continued support and we look forward to seeing you soon at McHugh Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT!
McHugh Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram & Fiat
We take pride in serving and maintaining relationships to our surrounding counties...Licking, Knox, Coshoction, Knoble, Guernsey, Morgan and Perry.
McHugh Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, FIAT
3420 Maple Ave
Directions Zanesville, OH 43701-1341


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Laura and John 2012 Temecula Wine Country San Diego Wedding Minister
Laura and John planned their beautiful Wedding at Temecula's Ponte Winery for a long time. All of their planning paid off for a picture perfect Wedding on a picture perfect day! Their colors of tangerine tango and Malibu blue were spectacular on their attendants and in their Wedding photos! They even included their colors in their Sand Ceremony. I love being a Wedding Minister in Temecula Wine Country as I get to work with the best of the best! Ponte coordinator always provide a flawless Wedding event, and I like to provide a flawless Wedding Ceremony!
Non-denominational Wedding Officiant Minister San Marcos Slate Barn Moonlight Ranch Wilson Creek Wiens San Diego North Fallbrook Carlsbad Del Mar Encinitas Escondido San Marcos Oceanside Rancho Bernardo San Diego Grand Tradition Green Gables Grand Del Mar Hilton Pala Mesa Resort San Diego Orange County Quail Haven Fazeli Leo Carrillo Shadowridge Paradise Falls Lakehouse Los Willows Twin Oaks Country Club Milagro Lorimar Solana Beach Lomas Santa Fe Whispering Palms Wedgewood Stone Brewery Rancho Santa Fe El Camino


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Business Resources
There are a variety of resources available to assist you in starting a business in Greater Richmond, Virginia.
- Visit the Virginia Department of Business Assistance's Business One Stop
- Guide to Local Taxes on Businesses
- Guide to Business Incentives
Additional state and regional organizations add value as you establish your business in Greater Richmond:
- Business Associations
- International Organizations
Business Associations
Virginia International Business Council
VAIBC is a premier membership organization serving the region's international trade professionals. The Council serves as a forum for the promotion of global commerce and is known for its outstanding programs and engaging speakers.
National Association of Foreign Trade Zones (NAFTZ)
NAFTZ connects global businesses with local communities through the U.S. Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) Program. This organization, which comprises public entities, public and private companies and individuals, works to promote business growth, economic development and U.S. employment.
Italian American Business and Professional Societa Inc.
This group promotes networking among Italian-American business owners and interested others, while also elevating the image of Italians through education, information, and cultural celebrations.
Virginia Israel Advisory Board
The Virginia Israel Advisory Board's mission is to serve as the bridge for Israeli companies who want to establish and/or expand their business in the USA and locate in Virginia.
World Affairs Council of Greater Richmond
The Council educates and informs citizens of Central Virginia about the importance of international affairs. It sponsors at least one major speaker forum each month, schedules special-interest events, and provides several seminar series each year.
International Organizations
Greater Richmond Relocation Council
This group is formed by relocation professionals in the Richmond metropolitan area to share and gain knowledge on issues, challenges, and solutions in the evolving field of relocation.
Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
The Virginia Hispanic Chamber promotes business opportunities for members by providing proactive business and resource links to the Virginia Hispanic community.
The City of Richmond Hispanic Liaison Office
The office increases access for the Richmond Hispanic community to city and community services, while promoting community information, education, and citizen participation.
Virginia Asian Chamber of Commerce
With more than 300 individual and organizational supporters and members, VACC helps Asian businesses compete in the global marketplace with strategic research, guidance, and connections.
Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP)
Virginia Economic Development Partnership is a state economic development agency that was created to foster increased expansion of the State's economy by serving those seeking a prime business location or increased trade opportunities within the state. VEDP has several international offices in Europe, Asia and Australia.
Virginia Israel Alliance
The Virginia Biotechnology Research Park in partnership with several technology incubators, technology parks, and research institutions in Israel created the Virginia-Israel Biosciences Commercialization Center (VIBCC) to assist life science companies with preparing for U.S. market entry. A formal relationship has been forged with Xenia Venture Capital for life science companies exiting their incubator. It has also been qualified by the BIRD Foundation (Israel-US Binational Industrial Research and Development Foundation).
In This Section
- Business Contacts
- Business Resources
- Foreign Consuls & Embassies
- International Business Partners
- Greater Richmond's Sister Cities
International Information
Stay Connected
- Follow GRP on Twitter
- GRP on Facebook
- GRP on YouTube
- GRP LinkedIn Group
- Contact the GRP
Contact Information
Greater Richmond Partnership, Inc.
901 E. Byrd St., Suite 801
Richmond, VA, USA 23219
(804) 643-3227
(800) 229-6332
International Cost Comparison
Compare startup costs in Greater Richmond and seven other cities. The Directory of Interntationally Owned Firms provides contact and product information for the metro area's foreign affiliated firms.


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Wahoo's Balance scale works with your iOS device to keep track of your weight
The Balance Smartphone Scale seems like the ultimate scale at a very reasonable price
Thanksgiving is fast approaching which means many of us will be traveling to make our way back home to celebrate and be thankful for all we have this year and to all fall into a food coma when all is said and done. Overindulging during the holidays will ruin all of your hard work at the gym, which is why a scale is such an important item to have in your weight-loss arsenal. Sure - you can make a trip to your local drug store to pick up any scale that catches your eye, or you can take a gander at Wahoo Fitness' Balance Smartphone Scale as it has way more bells and whistles than any regular scale.
The Balance Smartphone Scale doesn't just weigh you, but it can be used to track your weight and BMI over time and send it to your iOS devices instantly to Wahoo's Wellness application or other fitness apps that support the scale. With support of up to 16 different users, there's no way anyone in your household won't be able to keep track of their fitness. The scale will also store up to 130 weight readings for when you can't sync the data to your iOS device.
The Balance Smartphone Scale will be available for the first week of December with pre-orders currently available at WahooFitness.com for $99.
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International travelers' expenses used to only encompass flights and hotel charges, but today's modern cellphone convenience makes for a potentially large bill. Calling home or accessing the Internet are everyday habits for many people while going to work or school. However, traveling abroad halts these habits unless you want a cellphone bill in the thousands of dollars. Being selective about your phone use is critical to keep costs down while still remaining connected.
Turn off the Phone
The simplest way to avoid a high cellphone bill is turning the phone off. Today's cellphones are active even when you aren't using them, but their power is on. They'll begin their roaming process to find a local provider. Although there are some phones with a manual feature to shut off the roaming process, you can't always rely on this idea to work. Allowing the phone to roam racks up the charges every minute. A phone with the power off doesn't communicate with any cellular sites, making it the safest choice during international travel.
Use Local Resources
If you must be connected when you travel, consider local resources for Internet access. Although you typically use your phone for basic Internet searches, it's too expensive when you're in another country. When you're on a cruise, for instance, most major operators offer computers on-board. A trip to another country is usually met with at least one large city. Ask your hotel about computers and Internet access they offer or look for a local Internet cafe. There are low-cost alternatives almost everywhere.
Try Local SIM Cards
To truly use your phone without high charges, consider using local SIM cards by a reputable service, such as HolidayPhone. SIM cards communicate with the local cell provider, indicating a phone is authorized to use area resources without international roaming. You're free to use the phone normally based on the SIM card agreement. This strategy is perfect for travelers who are constantly moving between different countries.
Switch It Up
You can also use this opportunity to try a different phone by purchasing a prepaid device. Visit a local cellphone shop to look over their inventory. Prepaid phones are typically disposable. Once you're finished with your visit, throw it away. They aren't flashy like expensive contractual phones, but they offer core services you need. Calls home and accessing the Internet are possible with prepaid phones. Simply ask the salesperson about the phones' features to match your needs with the right device.
From using a local SIM card to simply turning off your phone, avoiding international roaming charges takes conscious thought. Consider your calling needs before taking off on that next trip. You'll save yourself from much stress and exorbitant bills.


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After upgrading to Windows 10 (or installing fresh I guess), Cisco VPN Client (the old IKE1 version) no longer works. If you upgraded the "Cisco VPN Client" service is missing and if you type in "VPN" into Cortana the "VPN Client" no longer shows up. Trying to reinstall gives the error
Your app does not work with Windows 10
Ryan Ternier has worked out a fix and I'm publishing it here so it's easier for me to find…here it is in the long form:
- Click on the Start button -> Settings -> System-> Apps and Features -> Uninstall Cisco VPN Client
- Now download the Sonicwall VPN Client from http://help.mysonicwall.com/applications/vpnclient/
- Install the Sonicwall VPN Client
- Extract the vpnclient-winx64-msi-5.0.07.0440-k9.exe and right click vpnclient_setup.msi and select Install
- Run through the installer steps
- Once done click on Start button and type Regedit as administrator
- Browse to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\CVirtA and edit the "DisplayName" REG_SZ object.
- Change the contents of DisplayName from "@oem8.inf,%CVirtA_Desc%;Cisco Systems VPN Adapter for 64-bit Windows" to "Cisco Systems VPN Adapter for 64-bit Windows"
- Either reboot or start up services.msc and start the Cisco VPN service
- Open the VPN client as normal and try and connect
- It should now work again.
Thanks to Ryan Ternier and OCGrumpa in post http://weblogs.asp.net/rternier/getting-cisco-s-ipsec-vpn-client-working-on-windows-10.