In this Feb 2, 1979 file photo, then Chinese Vice Premier Deng Xiaoping tries on a cowboy hat presented to him at a rodeo in Simonton, Texas. Forged in absolute secrecy at the height of the Cold War 30 years ago, the diplomatic ties established between the United States and China were meant to balance out the Soviet threat.(AP Photo/File)

Section:Photo

Tue., Dec. 30, 2008