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Figures of speech

The Dalian Toastmasters Club meets every Saturday morning from 10 am-12 pm at All's Well Coffee Shop in Wuyi Street. Its aim is to provide a mutually supportive and positive learning environment in which every member has the opportunity to develop communication and leadership skills, which in turn foster self-confidence and personal growth. Visitors are welcome.

Call: 8464-1419 for directions. Barbara: 8471-1282

Steve Jin: shinjiking@yahoo.cn

A sweet surprise

A delicious something to have with your tea? On the surface is what looks like any other chocolate cake found in one of China's many, many cake shops. But instead of a cherry on top, the pastry chef uses a cherry tomato. Miles Kington once said that "Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit; wisdom is knowing not to put one in a fruit salad", though what it means to put one on top of a chocolate cake is anyone's guess.

Talking about sex

One Guangzhou expat was amused by the recent Sex Culture festival in his thriving metropolis. More than 70 percent of the world's sex toys are made in the region, so it's no surprise the stalls were filled with items of erotic interest.

"It's not exactly the place you'd go on a first date, but it certainly an eye opener," says Martin, a business consultant who has lived in Guangzhou for three years.

(China Daily 11/17/2008 page8)