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by Lalita Arogyaswamy

The Feb.28, 2007 meeting of the multinational Liaison Club focused on China – from the perspective of its history, culture and present day economic might. Fittingly, the monthly meeting was held at the Hunan Empire, a Chinese restaurant, in the Northern Lights Plaza.

The venue, a well-appointed restaurant had an acceptable seating arrangement for the meeting. The management and staff of the restaurant were both helpful and solicitous of the patrons/members during the meeting.

The meeting began with the President, Mariam Atri, graciously welcoming the members while the members enjoyed the appetizers and beverages impeccably served by the Hunan staff. Next, President Atri introduced the first speaker of the evening, Dr. Ming-te Pan, Associate Professor, Chair of the History Department and the Director of the Graduate Program in History at SUNY Oswego.

Dr. Ming-te Pan, an authority on Asian history, gave an exceptionally informative and interesting talk on China with special focus on its present economic resurgence and its roots in its past economic and cultural history in a most fascinating manner. The members' enthusiastically applauded at the conclusion of the lecture. The questions that followed the discourse were answered affably and patiently by Dr. Pan.

Later, while dinner was being served, the second speaker and the main sponsor of the event, Ms. Jodi Carr, Managing Director of Syracuse eWomenNetwork, Inc. spoke of the interesting networking opportunities provided to women business owners across the country by her organization through the use of a variety of media.

The final speaker of the evening, Eric Kuersteiner, who is a CPA with with Arnold J. Hodes & Co. discussed the issues many should consider when it comes time to file their taxes. It is unfortunate to see how so many items of deductions are not accounted for due to taxpayers’ lack of record keeping. Thus, there is a need for many to consider developing a relationship with a CPA to take advantage of legal tax deductions fully and consistently. It is also advisable for most to consult a financial advisor for their longer-term financial objectives.

Last, the dinner served by the Hunan Empire was superior, to say the least. The appetizers of Spring Rolls, steaming dumplings were well prepared. The soups especially the 'Hot and Sour' were very good. The buffet dinner was tastefully arranged. The dishes were both steaming hot and plentiful. One could see the members from different parts of the world as well as America relish the food while the conversation was both lively and interesting.

Overall, the meeting was an excellent chance for members to appreciate and learn about China's past and present. The two business speakers who followed also provided the members with useful information about networking among business women and opportunities for saving on income taxes.

I offer a special vote of thanks to Mariam Atri and the board members who worked very hard to plan and organize this delightful event.