Here on the Other Side

Chinese bicyclists do not wear helmets (see above). I have never understood why more of them don't get hurt . Maybe China is under some sort of enchantment. But does the protective magic apply for Chinese graduate students in the US? We do not want to find out.

Li Songshu, a beautiful young graduate student, will be attending seminar with the guest professors. She has been staying at our house until the dorm is ready. Songshu bought a bicycle at the Johnson City Walmart and has been humoring us by wearing a helmet.

An Impressive Position

All summer, I've waited for our Chinese teacher training projects to happen or to fall through. For weeks, they would do neither. Then, Nanjing fell through. With my abounding optimism, I waited for the NCUT (North China University of Technology) project to do the same. But it didn't. At this moment, the twelve participating professors are en route from Beijing.

I will be teaching in the project. I have drawn up schedules and itineraries. I have even been scavenging kitchen equipment for dormitory kitchens.

I think I deserve a new title for the service I am rendering to ETSU. The university abounds in program coordinators, deans, chairs and vice presidents. I prefer the designation CHIEF COOK AND BOTTLE WASH. The title is not a metaphor. I actually procure and wash pots (see above).