August 2008
As I write this, I am in Beijing having
attended the spectacular Olympics Opening Ceremony. Photos are on Committee of 100 website.
Before I came, C-100 member Governor Gary Locke told me that he would take part in the last leg of the Olympic torch relay from Chengdu to Beijing on August 5. Other Committee members running with the Olympic torch in China and the U.S. have been Helen Zia, Paul Chu, Kai-Fu Lee and Ya-Qin Zhang. About thirty C-100 members are here attending the Games, and our Committee of 100 delegation at the Opening Ceremony included Pehong Chen, Kai-Fu Lee, Howard Li, and Shirley and Walter Wang.
The Committee of 100 received an invitation to attend the
Opening Ceremony in February. My initial excitement turned into dread,
mainly due to reports of pollution, warnings of heavy traffic, hot
weather, security concerns and logistical nightmares. Lastly, we
heard that we needed to be at the Bird’s Nest six hours before the actual
ceremony!! So it was with mixed feelings and trepidation that I
started my trip for Beijing.
Well, I am happy to report that most of the logistical concerns were not as bad as I thought. Although Beijing has been hot and humid, we actually had a few beautiful days. Spirits have been high as China has done well with the medals. People have been gracious wherever we go. It has been a great experience being here this week.
Enjoy the rest of the games and the Closing ceremony of Aug. 24, which promises to be another wonderful show!
It is so great to receive the newsletter and know a little insider view of the Olympics! Keep it on!
Posted by: Jiming Lindal | August 18, 2008 at 09:15 PM