The "Welcome to Taipei International Club" held their Lunar New Year luncheon Tuesday, February 15, 2011 at the Grand Formosa Regent Hotel, Taipei. Among the honorable guests from more than 20 countries, His Excellency Ambassador Sawadogo - Burkino Faso - attended the luncheon with his charming wife Rihanata. Ambassador Sawadogo was invited to make a warmly appreciated short remark, followed by Mrs. Betty Chang, the President of National Council of Women of Taiwan. Both of whom took time out of their busy schedules to attend the luncheon, much to the delight of WTIC members.
Charlene Yang, WTIC President and wife of the Foreign Minister Timothy Yang, held the welcome speech and on behalf of the board of directors and supervisors, extended her heartfelt greetings for the Lunar New Year, the year of the Rabbit: Many well wishes for the new year!
During registration, Melody Yang gave a Chinese Calligraphy demonstration and offered one painting to each of all the 168 attendees, including members from the United States, Canada, France, Spain, Sweden, Argentina, Honduras, El Salvador, Panama, Haiti, Korea, Malaysia and Sao Tome and Principe. The New Taipei Troupe's acrobatic performances of the promotion dance and lion dance were eye-catching, immersing the audience in a happy and festive atmosphere.
Many of the members happily showed their talent in song and dance performances with Professor Mei-Yen Kao who conducted, and had everyone to sing along in" Kung-hsi! Kung-hsi ". All the entertainment was greatly appreciated by everyone, particularly so among the foreign guests.
The fascinating Balinese dance was phenomenal. It was amazing how the dancer moved and timed her rhythm to the sound. The eye movement and facial expression were also the focus of many.
The Tuvalu dance was similarly impressive, as it was performed by two young Taiwanese students who had been to Tuvalu as the International Youth Ambassadors and had learnt the dance from locals. While performing, many came up and sprayed perfume onto them as a show of appreciation -- a part of Tuvaluan tradition. The ballroom was soon filled up with strong fragrance, which made the performance even more enjoyable.
Lunch was served buffet style, and it was during this time that members took the chance to mingle with new acquaintances and catch up with old friends. A raffle was held, with the prizes donated by generous directors, supervisors and members of the club.
Last but not least, the Line Dance Interest Group performed a Taiwanese aboriginal dance which wrapped up the luncheon. The jingling sound made by bells tied around wrists and ankles and the joyful rhythm of the music attracted the audience. Everyone soon lined up on stage, hand in hand, and joyfully danced along with them.
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WTIC President Charlene Yang’s remarks ….(more)
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