VSU Exchange Professor presents Tai-Chai martial arts exhibitionwith local students

Dr. Jin-Long Tian, martial arts master and professor at Yangzhou University in Yangzhou China, will mark the conclusion of a semester's residence at Valdosta State University with a public demonstration and lecture on Tai Chi at 7:00 pm Wednesday, December 10, at VSU's Whitehead Auditorium in the Fine Arts Building.

Dr. Tian will perform various Tai Chi forms, some of which are original routines developed by him, with students he has trained during his stay in Valdosta.

Tian, who has trained seven national Chinese champions in the martial arts as well as three international champions, is a well-known master of the martial arts throughout central China. During his semester at VSU, he has taught two classes in the Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education as well as a Lifelong Learning program for retirees through the Department of Continuing Education.

In addition, Tian has worked closely with the Valdosta Asian Cultural Association (VACA) in training the group's youth martial arts troupe of 12-14 year-old boys and girls. Tian has also demonstrated tai chi styles at public schools, sporting events, VSU campus celebrations, and at the annual VACA international banquet on October.

Tian's semester at VSU is part of a bilateral exchange agreement between VSU and Yangzhou University. His visit came about as a result of Dr. Ronald Zaccari's visit to Yangzhou in May 2002. According to Dr. Tracy Harrington, Director of International Programs at VSU, ?Professor Tian's presence at VSU has given the university and the town a unique opportunity to benefit from a major figure in the martial arts. He is famous throughout central China. We have been very fortunate to have a master of his caliber and stature working with our students, retired citizens, and school children.?

The one-hour presentation on December 10 begins at 7 pm and will be followed by a reception sponsored by the Valdosta Asian Cultural Association. The event is open to the public and free of charge.