Today the Liberty Times ran a great story on Taichung's own Michael Le Houllier; an expat with a stake in his community.
Le Houllier made the news for his active participation in the bicycle book exchange-- a program established by the Changhua County government to promote fitness and literacy in a lead up to the National Games this October.
The program involves over 100 participating police stations, libraries and churches within Changhua County. Any participant may pick up a "book passport" at the police station on Zhong-zheng Rd. in Changhua City, free for the donation of three books.
According to Le Houllier, he filled his passport in only four rides, capping it off with an ambitious 251km pull down the Highway 19 and returning on the coastal Highway 17. In four rides he covered over 400km.
Le Houllier says,
" I met a lot of interesting people -- police officers, local grocery owners, and even a couple of middle school kids who helped me find a station in Lugang that was on a very confusing lane. I loved it."
The program will continue for another 2 and a half weeks.
I think this is also a prime example of foreigners taking an active role in their Taiwanese communities.
Update: Here is a link to the English Translation.
Thanks for the write up. It was a great time and I love the fact that I get to meet wonderful people on these rides, especially in the countryside... :)
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