SAGP Greater Philadelphia Shanghai Association’s fifth anniversary celebration concluded successfully

At the heart of the celebration was the 5th Anniversary of the Greater Philadelphia Shanghai Association (SAGP), held on October 6 at the luxurious Talamore Country Club in Montgomery County. Nearly 300 members and guests from the Philadelphia Chinese community gathered in the spirit of camaraderie and cultural exchange, honoring the rich heritage of Shanghai and Chinese culture.

As guests arrived at 3 PM, they were welcomed by an impressive display from the Ikebana BuxMont Study Group, part of the International Ikebana Association, showcasing over 20 exquisite floral arrangements. Additionally, the renowned artist Mr. Cao Shutian, a member of the Chinese Artists Association, unveiled a collection of countryside landscape paintings that instantly transported attendees to the familiar scenes of their dreams. The Rich Time Arts Salon also contributed to the artistic atmosphere with a collection of over 150 outstanding photographs.

The evening’s festivities commenced at 5:30 PM with the SAGP banquet, hosted by Yang Qing and Wang Rui. Their witty and heartfelt dialogues, occasionally infused with Shanghai dialect, struck a chord with the attendees, evoking deep feelings of homesickness among those living abroad.

A special video message was shared during the dinner by the esteemed Mr. Zhao Xicheng, the 96-year-old shipping tycoon and father of former U.S. Secretary of Transportation and Labor Elaine Chao, sending his warm congratulations. The entertainment lineup was captivating, featuring performances such as the solo singing of “Hometown’s Glance” by Charina, a dance performance of “Shanghai Morning” led by Zeng Yan, Xu Chun’s solo “Unforgettable,” and an energetic jazz remix street dance by Dorothy and Li Yulin. Student violinist Lei Hairui mesmerized the audience with a rendition of “Butterfly Lovers,” while the male ensemble sang “Raise Me Up,” and Xu Yiming delivered a powerful solo performance of “The Best.”

The evening also included the presentation of significant awards commemorating five years of achievements: President Fang Yulin recognized the Sponsorship Awards for Everest Medical Group, Paramount Mortgage, “Chat with Jerry” YouTube channel, and Urban Insurance; Vice President Xu Chun and others honored generous donors and supporters with their respective awards, while Secretary General Yang Yuanyuan presented a Health and Beauty Award to the 98-year-old Zhu Huili.

The excitement peaked as the Bingo game, hosted by Zhang Yufang from Paramount Mortgage, drew enthusiastic participation. Dr. Li Xiaobin from Everest Medical Group announced the grand prize winner of a limited edition gold piece, “Golden Dragon Gather Treasures,” provided by the New York flagship store of Shanghai Laofengxiang, alongside the presentation by CEO Dong Hui of Shanghai International (Americas) Group. The evening concluded with Parke Bank’s generous donation of $10,000 to SAGP.

As night fell, the dance floor thrummed with energy, and guests were reluctant to leave. Paramount Mortgage thoughtfully prepared insulated cups, while SAGP gifted attendees with Shanghai-brand “Fenghua Sandalwood Soap.” Plans for next year’s gathering were already in the air.

Special thanks were extended to the naming sponsor, Everest Medical Group; gold sponsors, Paramount Mortgage and “Chat with Jerry;” silver sponsors including Precision Watches, In America Education, Urban Insurance, and others; and bronze sponsors from various local businesses supporting the event.