The Taiwanese Association of Northern California in the South Bay held its 55th annual conference on September 27 (last Saturday) in Sunnyvale. The event not only announced the results of the board of directors’ election but also combined with a summer barbecue social, attracting members and fellow countrymen to participate enthusiastically, engaging in interactions in a relaxed outdoor atmosphere.
At the event, there were stir-fried rice noodles, beef, pork, and chicken for barbecue, accompanied by vegetable salad, fruits, and drinks. President Chen Juncheng said that this was his last event as president before stepping down at the end of the month. “Although stepping down, I will continue to assist in different ways, hoping that the association will continue to thrive for a long time,” he said. He also pointed out that this year marks the 55th year, and next year will usher in the 56th year, symbolizing the significance of inheritance and continuity.
Chuang Yashu, director of the overseas education center, praised the efforts of the association over the years, especially mentioning that under the leadership of past presidents and executives, the association has long supported Taiwan’s participation in important issues such as the World Health Assembly (WHA) and the United Nations.
This year coincides with the opening of the United Nations General Assembly, and the Southern Bay Countrymen’s Association specifically voiced support for Taiwan’s membership in the UN, which carries profound significance.
Lee Hanwen, a member of the Overseas Chinese Affairs Consulting Committee and the 37th president, expressed his joy in gathering with fellow countrymen on a sunny day.
She pointed out that the association, established 55 years ago, is one of the oldest non-partisan overseas Chinese organizations in Northern California, aiming to acknowledge Taiwan, speak up for Taiwan, and connect emotionally. She emphasized the most valuable aspect is the mutual care among fellow countrymen, hoping that the association’s affairs will continue to develop, rallying more support for Taiwan.
Former president Shen Mingyang smilingly said that participating in the event made him very happy and emphasized that such gatherings help foster friendships, suggesting that they should be held regularly in the future to promote exchanges.
73-year-old permanent member Fan Lianzheng expressed that in the over forty years since moving to the United States, she has hardly missed any gatherings.
“We came from Taiwan, so of course, we must support Taiwan,” she said. Participating in events not only supports the organization but also allows her to meet new friends, making her feel happy, “it’s just wonderful to live happily every day.”
For the board of directors’ election, conducted in two stages through mail and on-site per the regulations, the council should elect 10 positions, with a total of 11 candidates. The elected individuals include Zheng Wulue, Shen Mingyang, Lee Hanwen, Zheng Zhaohuo, Yang Xiuduan, Lu Jiarong, Zhang Jinhong, Yu Shunhua, Zeng Yuen, and Chen Wenyi.
It is worth mentioning that on the same day, members of the association unexpectedly met with members of the De Anza College Taiwanese Student Association who were holding a welcome event in the park.
The two sides met with surprise, engaged in enthusiastic exchanges, not only exchanging contact information but also making plans to jointly organize future activities, demonstrating the beautiful friendships of intergenerational continuity and cooperation.