tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89578048366511654452024-03-13T21:03:59.184-07:00The RiverlandsChina, The Middle Kingdom, provides the foundation for discussion, from tea to Chinese herbs, traditional Chinese medicine, science, food, literature, and current events.Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.comBlogger258125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-39482056495599337512022-02-20T18:47:00.002-08:002022-02-20T18:47:26.566-08:00Maine Lobster Industry Whines that China is not Buying Enough Lobsters<p>Sounds like a headline from The Onion but isn't.</p><p>The USA spends vast amount of time and money trying to destabilize and control China and criticizing every step they make. Now there's complaints they are not buying enough lobster from Maine. What can they expect? All I can say is the folks in Maine are a bunch of whiners.</p><p>See the link for the full story.</p><p> China accused of failing to buy more Maine Lobsters</p><p><a href="https://www.argus-press.com/news/national/article_3308ef4a-6216-53cd-8121-151311ec91e1.html">https://www.argus-press.com/news/national/article_3308ef4a-6216-53cd-8121-151311ec91e1.html</a></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-86583664918436959402021-11-25T10:45:00.000-08:002021-11-25T10:45:02.432-08:00The US Government forgets its own history when criticizing Chinese human rights<p> The US Government continues to push the story of mistreatment of the Uygur in Xinjiang Province all the while ignoring the fact that it encouraged and supported the genocide of Native Americans and the pilfering of their lands for hundreds of years. To this day, Native Americans are suppressed and have high poverty rates and poor health conditions. Their native languages and culture are either extinct or on the brink of extinction.</p><p>Which brings up the celebration of Thanksgiving. Generally, presented as a day when the Pilgrims and Indians celebrated in harmony together, the real truth is shocking. You can read about it in this article:</p><p><a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/25/us/national-day-of-mourning-race-deconstructed-newsletter/index.html">https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/25/us/national-day-of-mourning-race-deconstructed-newsletter/index.html</a></p><p>This begs to question, why does the US Government continue to push the supposed human rights issues in Xinjiang. It is unquestionably to create unrest and try to destabilize Chinese society. </p><p>It is time for the US Government to focus on taking care of its citizens and work on restoring the pride and honor of Native Americans.</p>Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-73536366603701798192021-05-29T16:07:00.000-07:002021-05-29T16:07:42.883-07:00Women have an advantage over men...<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgneLQgdk37gBI112TdW5Cyyczr4gxxd2ghDTi_DgXUbMHxHzO_zIYGgSLjvr4PnWObgcH3PcTG8auKZBlIFHaLt6wWSerHvJLbCJxBaomf25jt6F4S7WABHeFqWZie3LEB-vCSjiCAV3pk/s2048/_Women+have+advantage12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="644" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgneLQgdk37gBI112TdW5Cyyczr4gxxd2ghDTi_DgXUbMHxHzO_zIYGgSLjvr4PnWObgcH3PcTG8auKZBlIFHaLt6wWSerHvJLbCJxBaomf25jt6F4S7WABHeFqWZie3LEB-vCSjiCAV3pk/w483-h644/_Women+have+advantage12.png" width="483" /></a></div> <p></p>Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-51942392284790720272021-05-20T09:02:00.001-07:002021-05-20T09:02:55.626-07:00USA criticizes China while financing the Genocide of Palestinians<p> The US Government continues to be highly critical of China and its so-called "human-rights" violations while financing the genocide of Palestinians. Yes, the bombs that the Israeli's are using to murder Palestinian men, women, and children are financed and for the most part made in the USA. The Israeli government is required to buy the majority of their armaments from the USA with the money the USA gives them.</p><p>One American Senator is willing to speak out. Senator Bernie Sanders is introducing a measure to "disapprove" of the US sale of "precision guided" weapons to Israel. Will this stop it? No, but at least there is one US Senator that shows signs of having a conscience.</p><p>You can read more at: <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/05/20/politics/bernie-sanders-resolution-us-arms-sale-israel/index.html">https://www.cnn.com/2021/05/20/politics/bernie-sanders-resolution-us-arms-sale-israel/index.html</a></p><p>In the meantime, while the US Government and the world in general is reluctant to confront Israel on the issue of Palestinian genocide, you can avoid supporting Israel and boycott any products or services that come from Israel.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-87838375453335198202021-03-28T21:04:00.001-07:002021-03-28T21:04:34.899-07:00US Government creating distractions<p> The US Government is failing miserably in human rights. We are witnessing an unprecedented time of civil unrest, almost weekly mass shootings, high unemployment, homelessness, and over 500,000 dead due to the government lies about the seriousness of COVID-19. We also have a dysfunctional government with representatives acting like spoiled two-year old's.</p><p>Instead of tackling our human rights problems the US Government wants to distract us by focusing on Xinjiang and creating a story about poor treatment of its citizens. I for one am skeptical. I was in Xinjiang about two years ago, and yes, the security was tight, but we were able to visit freely and there was no sign of unrest or so-called camps. It was a much safer place to be than almost any city in the US.</p><p>On the other hand I do know for a fact that the US Government will falsify information and stir up unrest in other countries all in the name of spreading democracy. Think about our invasion of Iraq and how it was based on lies. How many Muslims died because of false intelligence?</p><p>The truth is that people with power (and money) have woken up to the fact that while we've been bogged down killing Muslim men, women, and children and creating instability in the middle East to control their oil, China has been prospering economically by advancing peaceful trade with other countries. China is also advancing in their technology at a faster rate and will surpass the US in the next few years, if not sooner.</p><p>The US Government needs a plan to stop spreading lies and work together with China. We need to have healthy competition instead of more "they are the enemy" lies. Working together would create prosperity for both of our countries and add some stability to the world and maybe our leaders could focus on taking care of its own citizens.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-4035013098901615702021-03-14T15:46:00.000-07:002021-03-14T15:46:47.098-07:00Pelosi: China for decades waged campaign to destroy Tibet’s proud culture, history.<p> The headline read: </p><h1 style="box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--blackLight); font-family: var(--sansTypeface); line-height: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 12px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">"China for decades waged campaign to destroy Tibet’s proud culture, history: Pelosi"</span></h1><div><span style="color: #2a313b; font-family: "PT Serif", serif; font-size: 20px;">and continues with:</span></div><div><span style="color: #2a313b; font-family: "PT Serif", serif; font-size: 20px;"><i>"China for decades has waged a campaign to destroy Tibet's proud culture and history, House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi has alleged, asserting that the US will continue to stand with the Tibetan people and honour </i>(sic)<i> those who sacrificed all for their rights and freedom."</i></span></div><div><span style="color: #2a313b; font-family: "PT Serif", serif; font-size: 20px;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #2a313b; font-family: PT Serif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Pelosi loves to distract the American people from the realities going on at home. Meanwhile, over 534,000 people have died from COVID-19 due the negligence of the US Government. There's also daily racial violence, attacks against Asian-Americans, but no, let's criticize China on Tibet.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #2a313b; font-family: PT Serif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #2a313b; font-family: PT Serif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;">It should also be noted that in terms of COVID-19, Native Americans and Native Alaskans have suffered much more than the rest of the country.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #2a313b; font-family: PT Serif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #2a313b; font-family: PT Serif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;">I think before Pelosi makes her statements she should consider how bad the US treated Native American's. In Northern California the was a $5.00 a scalp bounty for Native American men, women, and children. </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #2a313b; font-family: PT Serif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #2a313b; font-family: PT Serif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;">About a year ago I was talking to a local Native American and asked if anyone could speak their Native Language. The answer was that a few people could. It's a shame that the US Government wiped out hundreds of Native American languages by insisting they speak English.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #2a313b; font-family: PT Serif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #2a313b; font-family: PT Serif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Are Native Americans treated any better today? From my observation things haven't changed all that much. There's still a lot of poverty, unemployment, and drug abuse. Is the government helping to change this? Has the government ever tried to change it?</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #2a313b; font-family: PT Serif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #2a313b; font-family: PT Serif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Please Ms. Pelosi before you criticize China or any other country look at what you have done or haven't done for the people in the USA - especially Native Americans. They still need our help.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #2a313b; font-family: PT Serif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #2a313b; font-family: PT Serif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Do something positive for us and help create jobs, improve education, and provide better. By the way, maybe you can give your San Francisco and Napa Valley property back to members of the tribes in those areas as act of good faith. </span></span></div><p><br /></p><p><a href="https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/international/china-for-decades-waged-campaign-to-destroy-tibets-proud-culture-history-pelosi">https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/international/china-for-decades-waged-campaign-to-destroy-tibets-proud-culture-history-pelosi</a></p><p><br /></p>Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-58798136448466133592021-01-08T12:20:00.006-08:002021-01-08T12:20:50.990-08:00Double Standards on US Policy towards China and Hong Kong<p> In 2019 the Hong Kong protests was headline news in the USA. The US Government and many others supported the violent Hong Kong protesters. Members of the US Congress passed a bill in support of the protesters while neglecting to address why the Hong Kong bill was proposed in the first place (1). This bill was signed by President Donald Trump (2).</p><p>Now the tables are turned and with American citizens breaching the halls of our capital buildings the protesters are being identified, losing their jobs, and being arrested (3). </p><p>Our politicians view the rioting and destruction in Hong Kong as good and when the Chinese government increased the presence of Police this was viewed as suppression.</p><p>Of course, now that the same kind of civil disobedience and destruction happened here our government officials condemn the protests and the violence.</p><p>The USA has long held a double standard with China and feels that it is a threat. This is unfortunate because we should be viewing the Chinese as competitors - not as our enemy. The USA needs to abandon the ideology of condemning China. Both China and the USA have more to gain from a constructive relationship that will mutually improve the well-being of our citizens.</p><p><br /></p><p>(1) The Hong Kong administration first proposed the changes in their extradition bill in February 2019, citing the case of local man Chan Tong-kai who was wanted for the suspected murder of his pregnant girlfriend while the two were on holiday in Taiwan. Officials said he could not be sent back to Taiwan for trial because there was no formal extradition agreement between the two territories.<br />https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2019/6/11/hong-kongs-controversial-extradition-bill-explained</p><p>(2) <i>From an extradition bill to a political crisis: A guide to the Hong Kong protests</i><br />https://www.cnn.com/2019/11/15/asia/hong-kong-protests-explainer-intl-hnk-scli/index.html</p><p> (3) <i>People at the US Capitol riot are being identified and losing their jobs</i> https://www.cnn.com/2021/01/07/us/capitol-riots-people-fired-jobs-trnd/index.html</p><p><i>Officials say man seen in viral photograph at Nancy Pelosi's desk arrested<br /></i>https://www.cnn.com/2021/01/08/politics/us-capitol-riots-arrest-pelosi-desk/index.html</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0San Francisco, CA, USA37.7749295 -122.41941559.4646956638211535 -157.5756655 66.085163336178852 -87.2631655tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-85193576747922532222020-09-30T11:11:00.001-07:002020-09-30T11:11:21.949-07:00Simatai Great Wall<p> The Simatai section of the Great Wall is about 75 miles northeast of Beijing. This area is known for the majestic views and steep terrain. My first trip there was in 1999 when it had limited development for tourism. At that time you could walk as far as you dared. The picture on the top of the blog is from that trip and is a section that we decided was too narrow and too steep -with sheer drops of several hundred feet - to continue. </p><p>The last time I was there was in 2009 (my third trip there) and tourists were not allowed to go past a certain point. I was glad I had been there years before and had been able to go farther. The pictures below are from my last trip there. A misty, lightly rainy day. Any section of the Great Wall is wonderful to see but this is one section that I would like to return to someday.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXTo89kof0NODkrZThpC99GQx3ShAIUSRHGC-PMIwwgovD5MZACHSfDHatdWVTkthdP8sOMdGjpboodha_sqPqff065mcNFEkDcL1ojE8d-GRd2zyqT7RvB9M9OgFzNYuFQqfPjW78KaBl/s2048/DSCN0465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXTo89kof0NODkrZThpC99GQx3ShAIUSRHGC-PMIwwgovD5MZACHSfDHatdWVTkthdP8sOMdGjpboodha_sqPqff065mcNFEkDcL1ojE8d-GRd2zyqT7RvB9M9OgFzNYuFQqfPjW78KaBl/s320/DSCN0465.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwtIhspvU_Yk62hfQ1HWpyRus5kngDEA3Aab7c0Z9RxEvlhZgorWSEn5LuPcIi0ZR5op3h1PoCyYSGcAVdv6yoni_A5Z_Tl00eJDW6nUqt40yTDbtdY-f1Pk1dxyZW9w4w_DaVTgyM2gfe/s2048/DSCN0470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwtIhspvU_Yk62hfQ1HWpyRus5kngDEA3Aab7c0Z9RxEvlhZgorWSEn5LuPcIi0ZR5op3h1PoCyYSGcAVdv6yoni_A5Z_Tl00eJDW6nUqt40yTDbtdY-f1Pk1dxyZW9w4w_DaVTgyM2gfe/s320/DSCN0470.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZR_ndAYyUimt6O6p6OmfRqkpjwORqD-rdit77lWrEydYpbLVGXRZIsgYrlnU0s6ulTaxOh6kC3vSEaK9dMaW6Tjop9vpq79TWd7zddBu7ML2WGYOOlf224mJCB2V9jCmqp82MOYTpT9F/s2048/DSCN0467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZR_ndAYyUimt6O6p6OmfRqkpjwORqD-rdit77lWrEydYpbLVGXRZIsgYrlnU0s6ulTaxOh6kC3vSEaK9dMaW6Tjop9vpq79TWd7zddBu7ML2WGYOOlf224mJCB2V9jCmqp82MOYTpT9F/s320/DSCN0467.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You can find my original post on Simatai in the post dated August 30, 2009</div><br /><p><br /></p>Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-30811390209110076492020-09-22T08:44:00.000-07:002020-09-22T08:44:17.736-07:00Herbal treatment for Hemorrhoids<p>Anyone who has had hemorrhoids knows that they can be painful at times. Modern medicine tends to treat them with diet, stool softeners, over-the-counter products such as Preparation H, or surgery but in China where over-the-counter (OTC) remedies tend to be herbally based there is a well-know herbal remedy that can help reduce the inflammation and shrink the hemorrhoids. The Chinese herbal formula is called "<b><a href="https://www.eastearthtrade.com/fargelin-hua-zhi-ling.aspx" target="_blank">Fargelin</a></b>" and comes in a small box of 36 pills. Use three tablets three times a day when hemorrhoids are starting to bother you. No medicinal claims can be made on herbal products sold in the USA so there is no mention on the box as to what it is used for. It only says it "promotes anal health" which is a vague statement but satisfies legal product labeling requirements. One of the main herbs is San Qi otherwise known as <a href="https://www.eastearthtrade.com/pseudoginseng-radix-4-oz-bulk.aspx" target="_blank">Tian Qi</a>. This herb can stop bleeding. It is also found in the formula <a href="https://www.eastearthtrade.com/yunnan-pai-yao-16-capsules.aspx" target="_blank">Yunnan Bai Yao</a> - which is known for stopping bleeding.</p><p><b>Contains</b>: San Qi Ginseng, Baikal Skullcap (Scutellaria), Sophora, Callicarpa, Amber, Sanguisorba, Corydalis. Other ingredients: Sugar, Corn Starch, water</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeE8nC83Dq4i65Nj-zCpx5ewaOqzr_X56azMCoFl_fBiHUlHuG22Qpdxsxup4VQWvPVw6Jf7Y3t7_fwqf5o9tp8owTV1IFqpleEpuowV_1eOXyGohCLjVjVLoBx9pgNiZIjViCyo6fxggA/s592/20200922_081323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="465" data-original-width="592" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeE8nC83Dq4i65Nj-zCpx5ewaOqzr_X56azMCoFl_fBiHUlHuG22Qpdxsxup4VQWvPVw6Jf7Y3t7_fwqf5o9tp8owTV1IFqpleEpuowV_1eOXyGohCLjVjVLoBx9pgNiZIjViCyo6fxggA/s320/20200922_081323.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Fargelin</b> can be ordered online from East Earth Trade Winds. Here is the link: <a href="https://www.eastearthtrade.com/fargelin-hua-zhi-ling.aspx">https://www.eastearthtrade.com/fargelin-hua-zhi-ling.aspx</a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0Redding, CA, USA40.5865396 -122.391675412.276305763821156 -157.5479254 68.896773436178847 -87.2354254tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-8300212591323293842020-09-21T16:05:00.004-07:002020-09-21T16:05:58.900-07:00Shou Wu Chih or Shou Wu Capsules?<p><b> Shou Wu Chih</b> is a popular tonic formula from China popularized in the 1980's book "Chinese Tonic Herbs" by Ron Teeguarden. East Earth Trade Winds sold it for many years but discontinued it. There were several reasons for not carrying it anymore. The supply changed over the years and the ingredients would change slightly depending on the manufacturer. In China the formula is made by many companies and all have very similar labeling and bottle shape. Another problem was the alcohol content. Though small it was alcohol non-the-less.</p><p>The solution to these problems was to have the original formula made into capsules using extract powders. Once made they called the product "<b>Shou Wu Capsules</b>" instead of "Shou Wu Chih". The new product was superior in many ways, foremost, was that the formula was never altered and they had a consistant reliable product to sell. The alcohol problem was eliminated as it did not need a preservative and there was no problem with breakage in shipping. It also made the product easier to take with you when traveling.</p><p><b>Shou Wu Capsules</b> gently increase the energy level, tonify and invigorate the blood, and nourish the Liver and Kidney function. Tthe herbs in this formula are also said to be good for the bones and joints and it is a good restorative to take after an illness. This is considered a tonic formula that is suitable for long-term use.</p><p>You can buy <b>Shou Wu Capsules</b> at: <a href="https://www.eastearthtrade.com/Shou-Wu-Caps.aspx">https://www.eastearthtrade.com/Shou-Wu-Caps.aspx</a></p><p><br /></p>Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0Redding, CA, USA40.5865396 -122.391675412.276305763821156 -157.5479254 68.896773436178847 -87.2354254tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-50641095000976635232020-09-18T13:03:00.001-07:002020-09-18T13:05:25.023-07:00"China Uncensored" review by Nathan Rich<p><strong style="background-color: white; color: #3b3b3b; font-family: "PT Serif", serif; font-size: 17px;">Last updated: September 18, 2020</strong> </p><p>I came across this video by Nathan Rich which I think everyone who is interested in China should watch. He links the youtube channel "China Uncensored" to Falun Gong and does a pretty thorough review of their channel and how biased it is with anti-China propaganda.</p><p>Here the link. Please take time to watch.</p><p>By the way, Falun Gong is the same group that promotes Shun Yun.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_x15Cmhgb70" width="320" youtube-src-id="_x15Cmhgb70"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p>Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-52109665913113975502020-09-18T10:28:00.001-07:002020-09-18T10:28:19.881-07:00Pain Relieving Plasters help Manage Chronic Pai<p><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;">Many people have chronic pain as the result of an injury or accident or because of aging and arthritis. One solution is to use </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt; font-weight: bold;">Pain Relieving Medicated Plasters.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;">They give temporary relief of minor aches and pains of muscles and joints. The plasters are easy to use. Just remove the backing and apply to your skin. The plasters may be trimmed to fit the area you want to place it on, .e.g., trim a strip to wrap around the shoulder or knee. One word of caution for men: if you have hair in the area, for example, around your knees, I suggest shaving the area first because when it is time to remove the plaster you'll regret it if you don't!</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPqaM3r3MDcPL28V90ra_XReEgor7coRBFg4GclhWTSUR84ntjIUnLLw_cSD6ctjrSQ2C-zxfmv-Zk9X0bYIEpomD6Uu4C6RVCdyin47OCZook_DbM1k-RMtjl0Aqm5xKHfgV8pmdX9vHG/s595/20200918_093226.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="539" data-original-width="595" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPqaM3r3MDcPL28V90ra_XReEgor7coRBFg4GclhWTSUR84ntjIUnLLw_cSD6ctjrSQ2C-zxfmv-Zk9X0bYIEpomD6Uu4C6RVCdyin47OCZook_DbM1k-RMtjl0Aqm5xKHfgV8pmdX9vHG/s320/20200918_093226.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;">The Active Ingredients, i.e., those ingredients recognized by the FDA as having a therapeutic value are:<b> </b>Menthol 6%; Methyl Salicylate 10%<br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><p align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;">The Inactive Ingredients, what in my opinion actually makes this a fantastic remedy is: Black Catechu, Chinese Rhubarb, Dandelion, Dragon's Blood, Drynaria, Fossilized bone, Gardenia, Honeysuckle (Lonicera), Safflower, Sichuan Teasel, Somalian Myrrh. </span></p><p align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;">This product comes in a box of ten plasters and are for external use only. </span></p><p align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;">You can buy them at East Earth Trade Winds. Here's a link:</span></p><p align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><a href="https://www.eastearthtrade.com/pain-relieving-medicated-plasters.aspx">https://www.eastearthtrade.com/pain-relieving-medicated-plasters.aspx</a></span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;">.</span></p><p align="left"><br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">Here's a discussion of the "inactive" ingredients.</span></p><span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"><i>Black Catechu</i> (Chinese: Er cha) belongs to the category of Substances for topical application. It moderates pain, stops bleeding due to external trauma</span></p><span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span></span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"><i>Chinese Rhubarb</i> (Chinese: Da Huang) belongs to the category of Downward Draining Herbs. These herbs are commonly used to stimulate or lubricate the gastrointestinal tract and facilitate the expulsion of stool. Da Huang whose main purpose is to drain heat and purge accumulations also has the effect of invigorating the blood and dispelling blood stasis and it is used for blood stasis due to traumatic injury. It is used with Angelicae sinensis (dang gui), Semen Persicae (tao ren) and Carthami (hong hua) for blood stasis.</span></p><span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span></span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"><i>Dandelion</i> or Herba Taraxaci (Chinese: Pu gong Ying) belong to the herbal category Herbs that Clear Heat and Resolve Toxicity. This herb can disperse Qi stagnation and reduce swelling.</span></p><span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span></span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"><i>Dragon's Blood</i> (Chinese: Xue Jie; Botanical name: <span style="font-size: 14pt;">Sanguis Draconis</span>) is a resinous secretion of the fruit of Daemonorops draco. It gets its name because of its resemblance to dried blood. It belongs to the category of Herbs that Circulate the Blood. It dispels blood stasis and alleviates pain and is used for symptoms related to injury from falls, fractures, bruises, and sprains. It is used with Olibanum and Myrrh for bruising, swelling, and pain from trauma. It can stop bleeding when applied topically to an external injury. It invigorates the blood, disperse stasis, and stops pain. Sanguis Draconis is often combined with Olibanum and Myrrh. All three of these herbs have similar functions but Sanguis Draconis is most able to promote the regeneration of tissue, help sores heal, and stop bleeding.</span></p><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"></span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"></span><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"></span></p><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"></span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"><i>Drynaria</i> (Chinese: Gu sui bu) is a Yang Tonifying Herb. It tonifies the Kidneys and strengthens bones. It promotes the mending of the sinews and bones and is used for traumatic injuries such as falls,fractures, contusions, and sprains. It is especially useful for ligament injuries and simple fractures.</span></p><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"></span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"></span><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"></span></p><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"></span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"><i>Fossilized bone</i> (Botanical name: Os Draconis; Chinese: Long gu) belongs to the category of Substances that Calm the Spirit. It is used topically for chronic, non-healing sores and ulcers</span></p><span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span></span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"><i><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Gardenia</span></i> (Chinese: Zhi zi) belongs to the Category Herbs that Clear Heat and Drain Fire. It can reduce swelling and move blood stagnation due to trauma.</span></p><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"></span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"></span><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"></span></p><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"></span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"><i>Honeysuckle</i> (Botanical name: Lonicera; Chinese: Jin yin hua) belongs to the category of Herbs that Clear Heat and Resolve Toxicity. It disperses heat, resolves toxicity, cools the blood, and stops bleeding. It can be used for hot painful sores and swellings.</span></p><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"></span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"></span><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"></span></p><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"></span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"><i>Safflower</i> (Botanical: Carthami; Chinese: Hong Hua) belongs to the category of Herbs that Circulate the Blood. It invigorates the blood, dispels stasis, and stops pain. Because it is light in weight it is said to have a rapid effect on the movement of blood and the transformation of stasis and stopping pain.</span></p><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"></span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"></span><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"></span></p><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"></span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;">Sichuan Teasel (Botanical name: Radix Dipsaci; Chinese: Xu duan) is a Yang Tonifying Herb. It tonifies the Liver and Kidneys, strengthens the sinews and bones and is used for sore and painful lower back and knees, and stiffness in the joints. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">I</span>t also promotes the movement of blood, alleviates pain, and reconnects the sinews and bones. It is often used for trauma especially for pain and swelling in the lower back and limbs from trauma.</span></p><span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span></span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"><i>Somalian Myrrh</i> (Chinese: Mo Yao; Botanical name: <span style="font-size: 14pt;">Myrrh</span>) is a fragrant gum resin that also belongs to the category of Herbs that Circulate the Blood. It in said to break up blood stagnation to stop pain, reduce swelling, and generate flesh. It promotes healing. When used in conjunction with Olibanum both the Qi and Blood are addressed. Olibanum invigorates the blood, Myrrh disperses blood. Myrrh is said to be better for stagnation. Both can stop pain, reduce swelling and promote regeneration of damaged tissue. For this reason the two herbs are often used together.</span></p></div><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p>Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0Redding, CA, USA40.5865396 -122.391675412.276305763821156 -157.5479254 68.896773436178847 -87.2354254tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-63065725594954367852020-09-18T09:28:00.005-07:002020-09-22T09:11:42.953-07:00Yunnan Bai Yao stops bleeding in People and PetsA lot of people are looking for <b><i>Yunnan Bai Yao</i></b> to treat their pets. There is a trend for Holistic Veterinarians to suggest using this remedy for dogs that have cancer and bleeding issues.<div><br /></div><div>Recently a lady told us her dog was given only two weeks to live but it ended up living for nine more months due to the <b><i>Yunnan Bai Yao</i></b>.</div><div><div><br /><div><b><i>Yunnan Bai Yao</i></b> (Yunnan is the province in China where it is made. "Bai" means "white", and "Yao" means "medicine") has a long history for stopping bleeding. I've used it many times on myself and my friends. It will stop bleeding (cuts, bloody nose, etc. ) instantly. Women who have heavy periods find that it helps slow down or stop the bleeding. </div><div><br /></div><div>This product is something everyone should have on hand for an emergency bleeding situation.</div><div><br /></div><div>The original formula was a secret but due to current labeling requirements the ingredients are printed on the box. The main ingredient is Tian qi - an herb that is well known for stopping bleeding. You can take the capsules internally or open the capsules and pour in a wound.</div><div><br /></div><div>If your dog has bleeding problems talk to your vet about using it.</div><div><br /></div><div>The best source we know of is East Earth Trade Winds. They have fair prices and fast service. Here's a link to their page:</div><div><a href="https://www.eastearthtrade.com/yunnan-pai-yao-16-capsules.aspx">https://www.eastearthtrade.com/yunnan-pai-yao-16-capsules.aspx</a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEd2kQt57GYLYxM25ND7jjUjGk0EU9ir2qJJUgDA18A_ovXLUsU2WFvfaJOaGkvRXwbYNPTq9iUcWZKS6-SJlieJBY7u97XKz9p9awzAptUFy-ReQIVfkZ_g_hrkKm-BZF882LT0XWxCW3/s806/20200918_091155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="806" data-original-width="604" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEd2kQt57GYLYxM25ND7jjUjGk0EU9ir2qJJUgDA18A_ovXLUsU2WFvfaJOaGkvRXwbYNPTq9iUcWZKS6-SJlieJBY7u97XKz9p9awzAptUFy-ReQIVfkZ_g_hrkKm-BZF882LT0XWxCW3/s320/20200918_091155.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div></div></div>Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0Redding, CA, USA40.5865396 -122.391675412.44304991519131 -157.5479254 68.7300292848087 -87.2354254tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-24292369906391810672020-05-15T18:46:00.002-07:002020-05-15T18:46:43.291-07:00Once upon a Virus: Chinese response to the US GovernmentChina has done a great job in containing the corona virus and showed that self-isolation and lock-downs are an effective way to stop the spread. Unfortunately they face a lot of criticism from the US Government as it tries blame them for their own poor response.<div>Here is a video that was produced in China that characterizes the problem.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Q5BZ09iNdvo" width="320" youtube-src-id="Q5BZ09iNdvo"></iframe></div><div><br /></div>Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-41959494200465112562020-05-15T12:48:00.007-07:002020-05-15T13:40:04.642-07:00Brick by Brick: Restoration of the Great Wall<div>I have been fortunate to have been to several sections of the <b>Great Wal</b>l and enjoy visiting each time. The picture on The Riverlands blog was taken at <b>SiMaTai</b> around 1999. At that time SiMaTai was not a popular tourist destination and it was quite the journey just to get there. The views were amazing though and this section of the wall had a shear drop off of several hundred feet. I returned in 2008 and found you could no longer go to this section because of the danger. </div><div>Recently I found an interesting article on the restoration of the Great Wall which is good reading along with interesting pictures. Enjoy!</div><div><br /></div><b>Brick by Brick</b><div><a href="https://interaction.sixthtone.com/feature/2020/greatwall/" target="_blank">Interesting article on the restoration of China's Great Wall.</a></div>Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-41504200224789511362017-12-25T11:50:00.001-08:002017-12-25T11:50:34.823-08:00Shen Yun makes its rounds again.... Be warned. Don't go.<b>The ads are out. </b><br />
<br />
Shen Yun is coming to Fresno, San Francisco, San Jose, Sacramento and Berkeley.<br />
<br />
But do the ads tell you that Shen Yun is pure propaganda for the Falun Gong Cult?<br />
<br />
No, they don't. So buyer beware.<br />
<br />
Be prepared to be indoctrinated on Falun Gong's tale of woe and persecution. Only it is not that simple. They won't tell you the whole truth. They only want to tell you what they want to you to know. Did you know that Falun Gong member's are told that the only religious writings that are to be read come from their "master" himself. There's lots are very bizarre beliefs about "aliens" and other such things. For a good read on the founding of Falun Gong read: <b>QiGong Fever</b> but do yourself a favor and read it before you spend money on Shen Yun.<br /> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/560532.Qigong_Fever">https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/560532.Qigong_Fever</a><br />
<br />
If Falun Gong were up front about what they were doing I wouldn't be writing like this but I got tricked into buying their tickets and found out the truth the hard way. By the way, the performance is okay, not top-notch as you will be led to believe, but certainly not worth the money you'll pay to see it.Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-90704224599796261592017-05-04T20:59:00.000-07:002017-05-04T20:59:17.779-07:00Vote Online for the Redding Tai Chi Meditation Garden until May 12, 2017The Redding Tai Chi Meditation Garden project is in need of your online
vote! We are trying to win the USA Today online grant competition so we
can build the Tai Chi court our artist has depicted below. Please share
this link with your friends and encourage them to vote. All votes and
shares are appreciated very much! Remember you can live in any state and
still support this project. It is a nationwide competition. Here's the
link to share: <a href="http://act.usatoday.com/submit-an-idea/#/gallery/60443995"><b>http://act.usatoday.com/submit-an-idea/#/gallery/60443995</b></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhVWH1OT9x-cxDXO1Sg6S6mEMAE4aAF1P8ZweMLJEZWT3afIcSlgRHQlffFuRwkshNktcBC18AoTk9xurg58MEUJvmaK8fyaj6Pj8SUBtiRiPARZ9J1pkwqG000uHTmejQRSA_SnwXrx4x/s1600/act+tai+chi+video6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhVWH1OT9x-cxDXO1Sg6S6mEMAE4aAF1P8ZweMLJEZWT3afIcSlgRHQlffFuRwkshNktcBC18AoTk9xurg58MEUJvmaK8fyaj6Pj8SUBtiRiPARZ9J1pkwqG000uHTmejQRSA_SnwXrx4x/s320/act+tai+chi+video6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-57442604641436180202017-03-06T06:54:00.000-08:002017-03-06T06:54:08.203-08:00Where ignorance is bliss...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6lHBRXcnIavNty8lUifo7Oj0G0PVK9Mut9qfA_d5uFnL77ki0dt7NdtCqTpuDut9VJNkLk2C-VGzz3zl4UPPuTqlR7m-xxmJ2d4NmavXQWkVu1OgfdZq_CXPsc8lg6WQO5HlxX4ezt0SE/s1600/Where-ignorance-is-bliss-we.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6lHBRXcnIavNty8lUifo7Oj0G0PVK9Mut9qfA_d5uFnL77ki0dt7NdtCqTpuDut9VJNkLk2C-VGzz3zl4UPPuTqlR7m-xxmJ2d4NmavXQWkVu1OgfdZq_CXPsc8lg6WQO5HlxX4ezt0SE/s320/Where-ignorance-is-bliss-we.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-44440194536277880222017-01-12T20:39:00.001-08:002017-01-12T20:39:18.651-08:00Shen Yun Performance was Disappointing<b>Shen Yun</b> has great PR! I've been seeing great reviews on <b>Shen Yun</b>
for some time and when it came to the Sacramento, California area I
jumped quickly to buy some tickets. The tickets weren't cheap I spend
$240 for two seats in Row N (I assume
they start in Row A) smack in the center and we definitely had a good
view of the performance. That I won't complain about. The Sacramento
Community Center Theater holds 2,398 people and from my observation it
looked like it was sold out.<br />
<br />
The performance started
timely and the initial dancers were very good. After the first dance two
MC's came on stage and introduced the performances in English and
Chinese. The following dancer's were very good also and they used some
high tech blending of animation with the dancers to make spectacular
stories. But... not far into the performance we started to get the
religious message which was of their belief in "<b>FaLun Dafa</b>" probably better known as "<b>FaLun Gong</b>". I don't actually think they used the word <b>Falun Gong</b>. They started off talking about "<b>Dafa</b>" and talking about the persecution of their religion in China.<br />
<br />
The story of <b>FaLun Gong</b>
is very similar to the tale of Joseph Smith and the Mormons - a cult
leader whose members get ostracized, beaten and chased away to the
promised land - Utah in the case of the Mormons and the USA for the
leader of FaLun Gong. Both groups end up spreading worldwide with their
organizations making lots of money.<br />
<br />
They also
talked about how they couldn't have their performance in mainland China
because of their beliefs. Well, Falun Gong is outlawed in China. It's
not a surprise that they can't show it there especially when several of
the dances have scenes of "government" bad guys beating the "good" Falun
Gongers. In one of the final dances there was someone holding a banner
of Chinese characters that read "Falun Dafa is good". Most Americans
can't read Chinese but I can read a little and I understood what the
banner said. It put me off.<br />
<br />
So my disappointment lies in the fact
that I paid good money to be entertained and ended up seeing a
performance that tried to make me sympathetic to their religion. It's
like getting pulled into a Church and being forced to sit through Bible
lectures when you really don't want to be there and have no interest in
it. Don't get me wrong. People can believe what they want to. Just don't
lie to me about what you're trying to do so you can force me to sit
through it. <br />
<br />
In the case of <b>Shen Yun</b> they
should be up front that they want people to be sympathetic to their
cause and they want to convert you and they also want to make money off
you while you get indoctrinated with their message. If Falun Gong is as
sneaky and dishonest about spreading their message in China as they are
here, maybe that's why the Chinese Government doesn't like them.<br />
<br />
So
my recommendation is that if you are considering going to the Shen Yun performance be well advised
that there will be attempts to convert you to their belief system and
you will have paid good money to listen to their propaganda. <br />
<br />
And by the way, contrary to <u>their</u>
statement that you won't see a performance this good anywhere else,
there are better dance troupes from mainland China that come through the
US. Watch for them. They will entertain you instead of trying to convert you.Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-30145614945398062942017-01-12T15:32:00.002-08:002017-01-12T20:32:08.073-08:00Shen Yun was Disappointing<b>Shen Yun</b> has great PR! I've been seeing great reviews on <b>Shen Yun</b> for some time and when it came to the Sacramento, California area I jumped quickly to buy some tickets. The tickets weren't cheap I spend $240 for two seats in Row N (I assume
they start in Row A) smack in the center and we definitely had a good
view of the performance. That I won't complain about. The Sacramento Community Center Theater holds 2,398 people and from my observation it looked like it was sold out.<br />
<br />
The performance started timely and the initial dancers were very good. After the first dance two MC's came on stage and introduced the performances in English and Chinese. The following dancer's were very good also and they used some high tech blending of animation with the dancers to make spectacular stories. But... not far into the performance we started to get the religious message which was of their belief in "<b>FaLun Dafa</b>" probably better known as "<b>FaLun Gong</b>". I don't actually think they used the word Falun Gong. They started off talking about "<b>Dafa</b>" and talking about the persecution of their religion in China.<br />
<br />
The story of <b>FaLun Gong</b> is very similar to the tale of Joseph Smith and the Mormons - a cult leader whose members get ostracized, beaten and chased away to the promised land - Utah in the case of the Mormons and the USA for the leader of FaLun Gong. Both groups end up spreading worldwide with their organizations making lots of money.<br />
<br />
They also talked about how they couldn't have their performance in mainland China because of their beliefs. Well, Falun Gong is outlawed in China. It's not a surprise that they can't show it there especially when several of the dances have scenes of "government" bad guys beating the "good" Falun Gongers. In one of the final dances there was someone holding a banner of Chinese characters that read "Falun Dafa is good". Most Americans can't read Chinese but I can read a little and I understood what the banner said. <br />
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So my disappointment lies in the fact that I paid good money to be entertained and ended up seeing a performance that tried to make me sympathetic to their religion. It's like getting pulled into a Church and being forced to sit through Bible lectures when you really don't want to be there and have no interest in it. Don't get me wrong. People can believe what they want to. Just don't lie to me about what you're trying to do so you can force me to sit through it. <br />
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In the case of <b>Shen Yun</b> they should be up front that they want people to be sympathetic to their cause and they want to convert you and they also want to make money off you while you get indoctrinated with their message. If Falun Gong is as sneaky and dishonest about spreading their message in China as they are here, maybe that's why the Chinese Government doesn't like them.<br />
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So my recommendation is that if you are considering going be well advised that there will be attempts to convert you to their belief system and you will have to listen to their propaganda. <br />
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And by the way, contrary to <u>their</u> statement that you won't see a performance this good anywhere else, there are better dance troupes from mainland China that come through the US. Watch for them. They will entertain you and not try to convert you.Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-53480471223742285382016-11-25T16:27:00.002-08:002016-11-25T16:27:47.220-08:00Simatai Great Wall<br />
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View from inside the Guard Tower Simatai Great Wall.<br />
The Great Wall at Simatai is a sight to behold. It is farther from
Beijing and isn't as popular a Great Wall tourist destination as
Badaling or Mutianyu (both of which are worthwhile to go to), however,
what makes it spectacular is the mountain ridge that it is built on.
When I first went there in 1999 you could go anywhere on it if you were
brave enough. (The picture on the header of this blog is of a very narrow
section of Simatai that is now in a restricted area.) The sections that
you are allowed to go on offer spectacular views of the Great Wall and
the valley below. You can hike up from the bottom or take a cable car
almost to the top. It's something you won't forget.<br />
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Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-3948834166419568202016-08-28T15:42:00.000-07:002016-08-28T15:42:54.317-07:00Picture of the Day: Simatai Great Wall<br />
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The Great Wall at Simatai is a sight to behold. It is farther from Beijing and isn't as popular a Great Wall tourist destination as Badaling or Mutianyu (both of which are worthwhile to go to), however, what makes it spectacular is the mountain ridge that it is built on. When I first went there in 1999 you could go anywhere on it if you were brave enough. (The picture on the header of the blog is of a very narrow section of Simatai that is now a restricted area.) The sections that you are allowed to go on offer spectacular views of the Great Wall and the valley below. You can hike up from the bottom or take a cable car almost to the top. It's something you won't forget.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-6234642337491177342016-07-17T20:12:00.001-07:002016-07-17T20:12:03.231-07:00Picture of the Day - The Big Bell Temple<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The Big Bell Temple, built in the year 1733, is a Buddhist temple located in the Haidian District of Beijing. This temple holds a magnificent collection of ancient Chinese bells and is especially famous for housing the largest bell in China called Yongle Bell (height 22 feet tall, weight 102,515 pounds) on which is inscribed Buddhist scriptures in both Chinese and Sanskrit, totaling over 227,000 characters.<br />
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Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-34300324710846390952016-07-12T20:34:00.001-07:002016-07-12T20:34:12.636-07:00Picture of the Day - Beijing Performing Arts Center<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinP-m91ImhlVsY7jKBU7_ds1CuZ3kVVlQpK___1kYmGLUcaHmi1lEksA7vby8n7fNOG8w7lzlYtb-DhjBrdQJqp0blKXqujMnujq71ATUPJaRA682NysWuy0PR5L30gBx277Fs9ETKFjL-/s1600/DSCN0383-WMark-WEB-LG.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinP-m91ImhlVsY7jKBU7_ds1CuZ3kVVlQpK___1kYmGLUcaHmi1lEksA7vby8n7fNOG8w7lzlYtb-DhjBrdQJqp0blKXqujMnujq71ATUPJaRA682NysWuy0PR5L30gBx277Fs9ETKFjL-/s320/DSCN0383-WMark-WEB-LG.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
Beijing Performing Arts Center. To get into the domed part of the building you enter from below. The water in front of the center is actually part of the roof of the entry way underneath. Acoustics inside the center are great and they do jam cell-phones to prevent the interruption of concerts.<br />
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<br />Michelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10909422824493659203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8957804836651165445.post-74391134985860441012016-07-03T18:50:00.004-07:002016-07-03T18:50:58.529-07:00Picture of the Day - Temple of Heaven Park<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Playing with a colored ribbon in the Temple of Heaven Park, Beijing.<br />
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