Amcham News

AmCham South China U.S. Consulate Farewell Party

Saying Farewell to AmCham’s Departing Consulate Friends

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June is the season to say goodbye to some of our consulate friends as well as to meet the incoming officers. On June 4, 2008, The American Chamber of Commerce in South China hosted the farewell party for the Consulate officials departing in the coming months at the Grand Ballroom of Chateau Star River.

AmCham President Harley Seyedin, Vice-President Steven Cheng, Secretary Thomas Podgurski, Treasurer Tim Wen, Governors Simon Foo and Fred Hong, as well as U.S. Consulate General Robert Goldberg were joined by over 30 U.S. diplomats and their spouses. In addition, Korean Consul General Kim Chan-nam, Officials from Belgium and Canadian Consulate Generals attended this party. More than 200 AmCham members, new and old, came to say farewell to the departing Consulate friends on that night.

Mr. William Laidlaw spent three years in Guangzhou, leaving as the Chief of the Immigrant Visa Section; while Ms. Darcy Zotter led the Public Affairs Section during the last three years. They two and other departing officials are long-time friends of the Chamber, and we have much to thank them for.

“William, Darcy, and all of the departing Consulate officials have been close and valued friends of our Chamber during their tenure here, and they have made great contributions to U.S.-China relations.” said President Harley Seyedin, “Although they will soon depart for other postings throughout the world serving our country, we are honored to host them for one last party and to give them the farewell they deserve.”

In particular, Ms. Zotter presented the T-shirt for a Charity Run would be held by the Consulate to raise funds for those people affected by the devastating Sichuan Earthquake on June 22, 2008. AmCham staff families and members will together with Consulate to support this charitable activity.

The occasion to say goodbye was one to enjoy, and we are happy to have been able to provide this. We hope to see all the guests next time!

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