N E W S & E V E N T S
VISIT TO THE 9/11 MEMORIAL
A solemn tour of the National September 11 Memorial was attended by representatives of more than 50 countries in mid-November. Organized by SOFC president and consul general of Cyprus, the Hon. Koula Sophianou, with the assistance of 9/11 Memorial staff, ambassadors, consuls general and consular staff placed flowers under the Callery Pear tree, known as the “Survivor Tree”. A symbolic wreath covered in lilies was dedicated on behalf of the Society of Foreign Consuls.
The Memorial (www.911memorial.org) is a national tribute of remembrance and honor to the 2,983 people killed in the terror attacks of September 11, 2001 and February 26, 1993. (Click here for photos.)
RECEPTION FOR NYC CONSULAR COMMUNITY AT CYPRUS HOUSE
At a special reception at Cyprus House for the NYC consular corps, SOFC president and consul general of Cyprus, the Hon. Koula Sophianou, acknowledged the former SOFC treasurer, the Honorable Eliska Zigova, consul general of the Czech Republic.
During the presentation of SOFC’s Distinguished Service Certificate, Ms. Sophianou said Mrs. Zigova had also shown dedication and generosity of spirit over several years by hosting numerous meetings, briefings, exhibitions and receptions.
Representatives from more than 50 countries, along with officials from the US Department of State and NYC Mayor’s Office joined press and friends of the SOFC at the mid-November reception. (Click here for photos.)
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PRESENTATION of DISTINGUISHED SERVICE CERTIFICATE TO CG OF KAZAKHSTAN
At the July Executive Committee meeting, the newly elected President of the Society acknowledged the dedicated tenure of former SOFC president, the Honorable Raushan Yesbulatova of Kazakhstan.
During the presentation of SOFC’s Distinguished Service Certificate, the Honorable Koula Sophianou of Cyprus said Ms. Yesbulatova had inspired the members and NYC consular corps with her strong leadership and guidance, and acknowledged her ongoing commitment to improving diplomatic relations within the consular community and with our US hosts. (Click here for photos.)
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MEMBERSHIP DUES…are now due!
The financial year commences annually on July 1.
Membership dues are $100 for Consuls General/Head of Post or Mission and $75 for Consular staff. All SOFC members are eligible for discounts at the 92nd St Y, whose lecture series explores international issues; their concerts feature world-renowned virtuosos and ensembles; and their spa, gym and other facilities are world-class.
Members also receive FREE Gold Club car rental membership (a $60-plus value!) with Hertz as well as their preferred rates and special offers. To download the 2011-2012 membership form,
please click here.
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The 2011 Annual General Meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 29. Look out for your invitation. Download the current membership form by clicking here.
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On Wednesday, May 25 from 6:00pm-8:00pm, the Australian Consulate General in New York will host a presentation by Les Malezer, Co-Chair elect of the National Congress of Australia’s First Peoples, on the subject of “The new approach to exploitation: The vision of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.” RSVP is essential at 212-351 6550. Building security requires photo ID for entry. Click here for more details.
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The 2011 Annual General Meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 29. Look out for your invitation. To download the 2011-2012 membership form, please click here.
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On May 25 the Executive Committee, with Hon. Eliska Zigova, Consul General of the Czech Republic, and the Office of Foreign Mission (New York Office) will co-host a multi-level briefing for SOFC members and NYC-based consulates. Subjects to be covered include: OFM programs, security issues and E-Gov. At the same briefing senior officers from CBP (JFK and Newark Airports) will update VIP airport arrival protocol and procedures. Strictly by invitation only. (See photos.)
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On March 11, in support of the Global Centenary of the International Women’s Day (IWD), more than 100 NY-based women (and men) Consuls General and expats, gathered at a special reception hosted by the Consul General of the Czech Republic, the Hon. Eliska Zigova, at the initiative of SOFC President, Hon. Raushan Yesbulatova, the Consul General of Kazakhstan. Consuls General from Cyprus, Poland and Jamaica also partnered in the event which included special guests from the US Department of State and the 92nd Street Y. To celebrate, cultural performances were featured as well as samplings of many national dishes. (See photographs here.)
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The Hon. Raushan Yesbulatova, Consul General of Kazakhstan and SOFC President, hosted an elegant members-only reception on February 2, 2011 at the Michelin-starred SHO Shaun Hergatt.
Members and guests from New York’s diplomatic community welcomed special visitors from the US Department of State’s Office of Foreign Missions.
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INTERNATIONAL PERFORMERS WELCOMED TO NYC JANUARY 7–11, 2011 TO VISION 2021 AT APAP|NYC 2011 – HILTON NEW YORK AND TOWERS
New York City is home to APAP|NYC 2011, setting the stage for worldwide arts and culture at this premier performing arts–industry networking event.
In partnership with the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA), the largest state-government arts agency in the USA, international attendees will have special access to NYSCA staff, who will be available to help them discover New York’s rich cultural community and arrange meetings with arts organizations.
Here are some highlights:
3,900+ performing arts professionals and artists from 49 states and 30 countries are attending APAP|NYC, making it the largest performing arts–industry event.
EXPO HALL will host 400 exhibitors: agents, producers and managers, representing artists and events worldwide.
There are than 1,200 performances—all forms of dance, music, theater, youth and family programming, live attractions and more—in full-length and showcase formats.
Leading creative thinkers and cultural leaders will be there, including SYPartners; Ruth Mackenzie, director, Cultural Olympiad for the London 2012 Olympics; political theorist & activist Benjamin Barber; Ben Cameron, arts program director at the Doris Duke Foundation; and Graham Leicester, director of the International Futures Forum.
In partnership with the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA), the USA’s largest state-government arts agency, international attendees will have special access to NYSCA staff, who will be available to help them discover New York’s rich cultural community and arrange meetings with arts organizations.
Learn more at www.apapnyc.org.
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ANNUAL HOLIDAY RECEPTION
The annual end-of-year holiday reception to welcome new colleagues and celebrate the festive season was generously hosted by the Consul General of Poland, the Hon. Ewa Junczyk-Ziomecka, at the beautiful Consulate General of Poland on November 29.
More than 100 invited guests from 80 countries and representatives from the US Department of State and New York State government officials attended.
The reception featured performances by world-renowned Kazakh-born, US based pianist, Ms Alia Alhan and by cast members of Liberty: The Musical. (Photos will be available soon!)
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The SOFC presents its deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Mr. Cesar Mercado, Consul of Nicaragua who passed away in NYC recently.
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The Embassy of Kazakhstan will be hosting the third annual Kazakhstan–U.S. Investment Forum 2010, November 8-9 in NY.
The forum, an official event of the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan in partnership with Newsdesk Media Inc, is entitled: ‘Program of Accelerated Industrial-Innovative Development of Kazakhstan’ and will include in-depth analysis in the following industries: Agriculture, Construction & Metallurgy, Oil, Gas and Petrochemicals, Machinery, Transport & Telecommunications, Energy, and the Chemical & Pharmaceutical Industry.
A high-level delegation from Kazakhstan led by H.E. Asset Issekeshev, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry and New Technologies, will participate along with H. E. Richard Hoagland, United States Ambassador to the Republic of Kazakhstan. The forum will also host the formal launch of the Republic of Kazakhstan’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce representative office in the USA. For further information, please visit: www.kazakhinvest.com
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The Office of Foreign Missions (NY) is on the move!
As of August 23, 2010 their new address is:
799 United Nations Plaza, 8th Floor
New York, NY 10017
Emails remain unchanged but staff have new telephone numbers. Click here for contact details
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In early August, the CG of the Czech Republic hosted a multi-level briefing for SOFC members and NYC-based consulates and UN Missions on the subject of motorcades, VIP arrivals, protocol and procedures at JFK & Newark (and regional private) arirports for the 2010 UNGA.
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In early July, the Little Singers of Monaco, a group of 30 youths aged 8 – 18 who form part of the Monaco Cathedral Choir, will visit New York for two free concerts featuring American patriotic songs, sacred works and folk songs. On Wednesday, July 7 at 6 p.m. they will perform at the Church of the Holy Family at 315 East 47th Street and on Thursday, July 8 at 6 p.m for one hour at St. Bartholomew’s Church, Park Ave at 51st St.
For more info please visit: www.monaco-consulate.com
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For all the latest news, events and happenings within the Brazilian community in New York, please click on this link to the cultural bulletin from the Consulate General of Brazil…
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MEMBERSHIP DUES…are now due!
The financial year commences annually on July 1.
Membership dues are $100 for Consuls General/Head of Post or Mission and $75 for Consular staff and you can download the (pdf) membership application form by clicking here.
All SOFC members are eligible for discounts at the 92nd St Y, whose lecture series explores international issues; their concerts feature world-renowned virtuosos and ensembles; and their spa, gym and other facilities are world-class.
Members also receive FREE Gold Club car rental membership (a $60-plus value!) with Hertz as well as their preferred rates and special offers as well as special rates and offers from FedEx.
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Annual General Meeting
The Annual Meeting was held on June 30 hosted by the Consul General of Switzerland, H.E. Christoph Bubb. A new board was elected. Please see the Executive Committee page for the results.
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Annual General Meeting
All members are cordially invited to attend the annual meeting to be hosted by the SOFC President, Ambassador Christoph Bubb of Switzerland on Wednesday, June 30. Look out for details on your invitation. (RSVP is essential.)
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Second Guided Tour of Central Park
On Saturday, May 29, we hosted the Second Annual Guided Walking Tour of Central Park to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Participants from more than 20 countries raised over $4000 and, along with Urban Park Ranger Sheridan Roberts, enjoyed a 3 hour-long trip through this iconic landmark taking in the Literary Walk, Bethesda Terrace, Cherry Hill, Strawberry Fields, the Tavern on the Green & Sheep Meadow. Special thanks to all who participated and donated! Click here for a selection of photos…
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SAVE-THE-DATE
The 2nd Annual Guided Walking Tour of Central Park to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital will be held again this Spring! On the morning of Saturday, May 29 bring along family and friends for a leisurely stroll through this iconic New York City landmark…
We will be guided by NYC Parks Cultural Affairs Liaison Officer, Gary Rozman, and will take in The Arsenal and the north-south section from 65th to 72nd Streets then walk east-west from 5th Avenue to Central Park West including the Literary Walk, Bethesda Terrace, Cherry Hill, Strawberry Fields & the Sheep Meadow. There is a $45* donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at the door or via sponsorships.
Sponsorship brochures have been sent to all SOFC members, but if you need additional brochures, please feel free to photocopy or download here…
Some more details:
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Check-in from 8:00am at The Arsenal, 1st Floor lobby and bring your completed sponsorship form and checks made payable to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
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The tour will start at 9:00am and will go ahead rain or shine!
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For each $45* donation, participants will receive:
- Access to the tour and refreshments
- Gift bag including a t-shirt, bottled water, map, Central Park gift, St. Jude gift and some surprises!
- The individual raising the highest amount will win a special prize! (* donations may be tax deductible.)
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Members and non members of the NYC consular corps are welcome but each participant MUST PRE-REGISTER ASAP AND PRIOR TO THE EVENT by emailing Beth.Desai@StJude.org and please include your name, consulate/affiliation, number of people in your team and contact phone number and email address.
If you need additional information or have questions, please contact Ms. Beth Desai at ALSAC/ST. JUDE on 212-239-3239.
We look forward to your participation in this fun social event to raise awareness and funds to fight childhood diseases and to benefit the vital international outreach programs of
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
The 2010 Central Park Guided Walking Tour is proudly hosted by the Society of Foreign Consuls with generous support from
The Copy Room, Inc.
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Runners from more than 100 countries are expected to converge on New York City on Monday, April 12 to participate in an international ceremony and Parade of Nations to mark the World Harmony Run, a global relay that promotes friendship and understanding with the passing of a flaming torch. The hour-long ceremony starts at 1:00pm at Dag Hammarskjold Plaza (47th Street bet 1st & 2nd Aves). Call (718) 291 6637 for more information. www.worldharmonyrun.org.
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International Mother Language Day
An international cultural program accompanied a special reception in February, organized by the Consulate General of Bangladesh with the support of the Society, to celebrate International Mother Language Day.
Please click here for a selection of images.
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SOFC Members Ring the Opening Bell at
the New York Stock Exchange.
In February, the members of the SOFC were guests of the NYSE Euronext, where we rang the Opening Bell and had a private tour of the trading floor. Please click here for photos.
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If you have not yet signed up for the 2010 financial year, please do so to ensure future invitations to special events! Click here for a membership form.
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On Friday, January 29 from 7:00PM
Czech Republic and Friends
present
HAITI BENEFIT CONCERT
AT THE BOHEMIAN NATIONAL HALL
321 East 73 Street (bet 1st & 2nd Aves)
All PROCEEDS GO TO THE RED CROSS
Suggested donation USD 20
FEATURING
MARTA TOPFEROVA, GARY LUCAS,
LUCIA PULIDO + more
For more info: 646-422-3399
Czech beer/delicatessen at the bar by Zlata Praha Restaurant (portion of bar proceeds will also be donated to the charity.)
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END-OF-YEAR HOLIDAY RECEPTION
This year’s annual end-of-year get together for SOFC members and invited guests, was held on Sunday, December 20 at the Kellari Greek Taverna, hosted by the Consul General of Greece, Hon. Aghi Balta. Highlights included a lucky door prize trip for two to Europe on SWISS International Airlines!
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BRIEFING FOR SOFC MEMBERS
SOFC members are invited to attend, on October 8 at the Consulate General of the Czech Republic, an updated briefing on the subject of:
“Facilitating VIP Arrivals at JFK and Newark Airports”.
The presentation followed by Q & A will be given by Heidi Nassauer, Chief, Passenger Ops, CBP, Passenger and Cargo Ops at JFK Airport and Domenico Calise, Deputy Chief, Passenger Ops, CBP, at Newark Liberty Airport.
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92nd Street Y’s Street Festival on October 18
The venerable New York institution, the 92nd Street Y will again stage their much-anticipated annual celebration of international cultures, art, sports and cuisine on Sunday, October 18 from 11:00am-5:30pm on Lexington Ave from 79th to 94th Sts.
Experience a variety of world cultures along International Way (91st to 92nd Streets), featuring booths sponsored by Consulates, UN Missions, tourist offices and their partners. There will be free offerings in art, music, sports, fitness, lectures and in many other areas for every age and interest. Live music, dance and spoken word performances will take place on an outdoor stage.
Visit www.92Y.org or contact Alison Gardy on 646-436-7287 to learn how you can set up a booth to promote your country!
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MEMBERSHIP DUES…are due!
The financial year commences annually on July 1.
Membership dues are $95 for Consuls General/Head of Post or Mission and $60 for Consular staff and you can download membership forms from the “About Us” page. All SOFC members are eligible for discounts at the venerable NYC cultural institution, the 92nd Street Y, whose lecture series explores international issues; their concert series features world-renowned virtuosos and ensembles; and their spa, gym and other facilities are world-class. SOFC members also receive FREE Gold Club car rental membership (a $60 value!) with Hertz as well as their preferred rates and special offers as well as sepcial rates and offers from FedEx.
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ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The Annual General Meeting was held on June 24 at the Consulate General of Indonesia. A new board was elected. Please see the Executive Committee page for the results.
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On Saturday, May 30, we hosted a Guided Walking Tour of Central Park to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Continuing our long record of philanthropy, approx $4000 was raised and donated to the International Outreach Programs of St. Jude.
Participants representing more than 25 countries along with our guide, NYC Parks Cultural Affairs Liaison Officer, Mr. Gary Rozman enjoyed an almost 3 hour-long trip through this iconic landmark.
Starting from The Arsenal and covering the north-south portion from 65th Street to 72nd Street and east-west from 5th Avenue to Central Park West, we passed by the Literary Walk, Bethesda Terrace, Cherry Hill, Strawberry Fields, the Tavern on the Green & Sheep Meadow. Special thanks to all who participated and donated! Click here for a selection of photos…
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WALK FOR ST.JUDE
On Saturday, May 30, 2009, the Society of Foreign Consuls will host a Guided Walking Tour of Central Park to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Continuing our proud record of philanthropy, the proceeds raised will be donated to the International Outreach Programs of St. Jude.
The tour will start at 9:00am and our guide will be NYC Parks Cultural Affairs Liaison Officer, Mr. Gary Rozman. The tour will go ahead rain or shine! (Permit)
For each $45* donation, participants will receive:
- Access to the tour and refreshments
- Gift bag including a t-shirt, bottled water, map, Central Park gift, St. Jude gift and some surprises!
- The individual raising the highest amount will win a special prize! (* donations may be tax deductible.)
Both members and non members of the NYC consular corps are welcome but each participant MUST:
- PRE-REGISTER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE AND PRIOR TO THE EVENT by emailing Beth.Desai@StJude.org (please include your name, consulate/affiliation, number of people in your team and a contact phone number)
- Record contact details and the details of any sponsor/s in your brochure (download below)
- Present completed brochure and all monies raised upon checking in. Please make your checks payable to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Sponsorship brochures have been sent to all members – if you need additional brochures, please feel free to photocopy or download here…
On The Day – Saturday, May 30:
From 8:00am – Check-in for all pre-registered participants at The Arsenal, 3rd Floor. This building is located within Central Park, down the steps at the junction of 65th St and 5th Ave.
9:00am (sharp!) The leisurely walking tour will start from The Arsenal, covering the north-south portion from 65th Street to 72nd Street and east-west from 5th Avenue to Central Park West. We will pass by the Literary Walk, Bethesda Terrace, Cherry Hill, Strawberry Fields, and the Tavern on the Green & Sheep Meadow. The tour lasts approx. 2 hours and ends back at The Arsenal. Participants may drop in and out of the tour at any time but no refunds will be given.
If you need additional information or have questions, please contact Ms. Beth Desai at ALSAC/ST. JUDE on 212-239-3239.
We look forward to your participation in this fun social event with your consular colleagues to raise awareness and funds to fight childhood diseases and to benefit the very important international outreach programs of the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
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The Governor of New York, David Paterson, hosted a dinner on Wednesday April 29, 2009 in Buffalo, New York as part of a two-day trade mission (April 29-30) at which many members of the Society of Foreign Consuls attended. Click here to download the invitation and arrangement details.
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The SOFC was delighted to support and sponsor the Celebration of International Mother Language Day, an important initiative of the Consulate General of Bangladesh on February 27, 2009 which was hosted by the Turkish Cultural Center in Manhattan. More than 30 members of the NYC Consular Corps participated at this reception to celebrate the world’s languages.
Click here for the program.
This event provided an opportunity for Consul Generals of different countries to project languages and cultures at a multicultural function. Apart from members of the Consular Corps, the event saw attendance US dignitaries, civil society organizations from different communities, the UN and UNESCO officials, linguistics, experts on multiculturalism, academics and cultural activists. By way of background, the UNESCO declared 21 February as International Mother Language Day in 1999 and the UN General Assembly established 2008 as the International Year of Languages and the International Mother Language Day is observed annually in UNESCO’s Member States and at its HQ to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism.
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The Executive Committee arranged a lunch and private tour of the trading floor of the New York Stock Exchange in February.
It was the largest group ever hosted on the trading floor by the NYSE. Representatives from more than 80 countries were hosted by NYSE CEO Duncan L. Niederauer and Vice President, Global Affairs, Jeffrey H. Eubank.
Click here for photographs.
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If you have recently been posted to NYC, consider joining the SOFC…
The financial year commences annually on July 1.
Membership dues are $95 for Consuls General/Head of Post or Mission and $60 for Consular staff and you can download membership forms from the “About Us” page. All SOFC members are eligible for discounts at the venerable NYC cultural institution, the 92nd Street Y, whose lecture series explores international issues; their concert series features world-renowned virtuosos and ensembles; and their spa, gym and other facilities are world-class. SOFC members also receive FREE Gold Club car rental membership (a $60 value!) with Hertz as well as their preferred rates and special offers as well as sepcial rates and offers from FedEx.
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– HOLIDAY RECEPTION 2008 –
The SOFC’s annual holiday reception for the New York City-based consular corps was held on Thursday, December 4 at the New York Marriott East Side on Lexington Ave. More than 80 guests attended this international evening.
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NEW!
Newsletter from the US Dept of State’s Visa Office
The Visa Office has started putting out a newsletter for the diplomatic and consular communities which has lots of useful information. Click here…
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OBITUARY
Renée Monique Pinder
Vice Consul, The Bahamas
With profound sorrow, the Society announces that Renée Pinder (41), Vice Consul of The Bahamas in New York since 2002 and an active and long-time member of the Society, passed away suddenly on July 30, 2008 in The Bahamas.
A book of condolences was opened for signatures at the Consulate General of The Bahamas and a well-attended memorial service was held on Friday, 8 August at the Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ, in New York City.
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MEMBERSHIP
The financial year commences annually on July 1.
Membership dues are $95 for Consuls General/Head of Post or Mission and $60 for Consular staff.
You can download membership forms from the “About Us” page.
All SOFC members are eligible for discounts at the venerable NYC cultural institution, the 92nd Street Y, whose lecture series explores international issues; their concert series features world-renowned virtuosos and ensembles; and their spa, gym and other facilities are world-class. SOFC members also receive FREE Gold Club car rental membership (a $60 value!) with Hertz as well as their preferred rates and special offers as well as special rates and offers from FedEx.
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ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The AGM was held on Thursday, June 26, 2008 at the Consulate General of South Africa and a new Executive Committee was elected. Vsit the Executive Committee page for the results.
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BRIEFING FOR SOFC MEMBERS
On June 12, the Indonesian Consulate General hosted a lunch and updated briefing on the subject of:
“Facilitating VIP Arrivals at JFK and Newark Airports”.
The presentations were given by Ms. Heidi Nassauer, Chief, and Mr. Richard Pileggi, Deputy Chief, Passenger Ops, US Dept. of Homeland Security, Customs & Border Protection Bureau, Passenger and Cargo Ops (JFK Airport) and Mr. Al Parra, Supervisor, Passenger Services, CBP, Newark.
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COCKTAIL RECEPTION AT FORBES GALLERIES
A VIP invitation-only Spring Cocktail reception, co-hosted by Mr. Christopher Forbes, Vice Chairman, Forbes, for SOFC members, recently arrived Consuls General and distinguished guests was held at the Forbes Galleries in New York City on May 21. More than 100 Consuls General and consular staff attended. Click here for a selection of images.
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IMPORTANT NEWS FROM THE OFFICE OF FOREIGN MISSIONS
- Policy Change regarding parking at NYC area airports -
May 1, 2008 –The Office of Foreign Missions (OFM) wishes to announce a change in the policy regarding parking fees at New York-area airports, to include JFK International. Following discussions with OFM, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has informally indicated that, effective May 1, 2008, vehicles with consular (C) plates may park free of charge at JFK, Newark, La Guardia and Stewart airports for up to twenty-four hours. However, if a vehicle with consular plates parks for a longer period, parking fees may apply to the entire time the vehicle was parked at the airport. This policy does not apply to vehicles with staff (S) plates, which will continue to be subject to all parking fees.
The Port Authority has informed OFM that it is communicating this change in policy to its relevant personnel, including contractor-supplied employees at the airport parking facilities. The Port Authority is also amending its protocol so that the change in policy will be reflected in its operations manuals and written instructions.
OFM anticipates that it will receive formal notification of this change from the Port Authority shortly. Until then they request that Consulates contact OFM (Tel: 212- 826-4500) if they encounter problems under the new policy as it is being implemented.
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WELCOME FOR NEW CONSULS GENERAL & END OF YEAR HOLIDAY RECEPTION 2007
The Society and the Consulate General of Indonesia hosted an end-of-year holiday reception for all members of the Society and members of the NYC-based Consular Corps on December 13. Guests included representatives from the New York Governor’s and Mayor’s offices.
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BRIEFING FOR SOFC MEMBERS
On November 28, the Indonesian Consulate General hosted an updated briefing on the subject of:
“Facilitating VIP Airport Arrivals at JFK Airport”.
The presentation, along with Q & A, was given by Ms. Heidi Nassauer, Chief, and Mr. Richard Pileggi, Deputy Chief, Passenger Ops, US Dept. of Homeland Security, Customs & Border Protection Bureau, Passenger and Cargo Ops (JFK Airport).
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SOFC WALKS FOR THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY IN CENTRAL PARK AND RAISES MORE THAN $13,000!
Under the leadership of former SOFC President and Consul General of Barbados, Hon. Jessica Odle, more than 80 members and friends of the Society of Foreign Consuls joined the “SOFC Cares” Team and raised in excess of $13,000 to benefit the American Cancer Society. Click HERE to see how the SOFC team fared at the ACS’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk in NYC’s Central Park on October 21.
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ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The AGM was held at the Consulate General of The Philippines on Tuesday, June 26 and the new Executive Committee was elected. For details, please see the Executive Committee page.
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NY DRIVER LICENSE AND IDENTIFICATION
The State Dept through its Office of Foreign Missions can provide diplomatic spouses, (some) family members and G- and A-series visa holders with a driving license. The OFM can also provide spouses who do not drive with a non-driver photo ID
For more information on obtaining a driving license, please visit: www.state.gov/ofm/resource/imp/roinfo/ny/20946.htm.
For additional New York State DMV information,
please visit: www.nysdmv.co
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2006 HOLIDAY RECEPTION
In early December, the Consulate General of Monaco hosted SOFC members including Ambassadors, Consuls General and representatives from more than 45 nations as well as invited guests from the US State Department’s Office of Foreign Missions and the New York City Commission for Protocol, the UN and Consular Corps. Click here for photographs from the event.
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2006 CONSULAR DAY IN NEW YORK CITY
October 17 was officially proclaimed Consular Day in New York by Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg. At a reception in the refurbished Gracie Mansion, the Mayor and NYCCUN Commissioner Marjorie B. Tiven, welcomed 150 representatives of the New York City consular corps and other NYC agencies.
Mayor Bloomberg presented the 2006 SOFC President and Consul General of Monaco, Hon. Maguy Maccario-Doyle with an official Proclamation. She responded by thanking the Mayor for his Administration’s support of the consular community and for “fostering such a wonderful environment in NYC so that all voices of the world could be heard.”
Click here for photos and a press release of the event.
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FUND-RAISING WALK
The SOFC Walks… and raises more than $12,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis.
On Saturday, June 3, the walk to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital raised more than $12,000 (after the final tally) and saw walkers from more than 20 countries participate.
Browse our picture gallery!
The beautiful Hudson River Park on Manhattan’s west side was the site for the Society’s inaugural sponsored walk, an initiative of SOFC President, Hon. Jessica C. Odle of Barbados.
Many people from the following countries took part in some way: Antigua & Barbuda, Austria, Australia, Barbados, Bahamas, Chile, Cyprus, France, Grenada, Guyana, Guatemala, Haiti, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Liberia, Luxembourg, Monaco, The Philippines, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and The Grenadines, Trinidad & Tobago and the USA.
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80th ANNIVERSARY GALA
An international black tie/national dress celebration was held at the spectacular Ballroom of NYC’s Mandarin Oriental in November 2005 to celebrate the 80th anniversary of The Society. The Gala was chaired by the Consul General of Monaco, Hon. Maguy Maccario-Doyle, with SOFC President Hon. Jessica C. Odle, Consul General of Barbados and the Executive Committee and SOFC members.
Congratulatory letters and greetings were received from former US President George Bush and former First Lady Barbara Bush, the Office of Secretary of State Dr. Condoleeza Rice, Governors from New York, Connecticut and New Jersey and NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg as well as numerous Past Presidents from around the world. Also featured was a luxury raffle with the Grand Prize of a dream trip for two to Barbados and a $500 spending spree at the Bernardaud boutique on Park Avenue. Proceeds from the raffle were presented to staff from St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
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