At the 18th Annual Gala on November 2, the GACC South and 500 members, friends, and honorary guests toasted to the strength of the German-American business community and the GACC South’s 35th anniversary. The eclectic night was filled with warm words of applause and recognition, a Gala dinner, several inspiring speeches, an award ceremony, a live band, professional dancers, and a Silent Auction.
Guests and members from all industries and nationalities celebrated a night of German-American relations and friendship at the St. Regis in Atlanta. It was a night to shine for all who came in their glamorous dresses and tuxedos.
In addition, a delegation from Bremen and Bremerhaven, consisting of 30 political and industry representatives of aviation and trade, was present.Mrs. Martina Stellmaszek, President & CEO of the GACC South welcomed all guests, distinguished members, GACC South’s table sponsors, the GACC South Board of Directors, and honorary attendees.
Among the honorary speakers were the German Consul General Mr. Christoph Sander, Mr. Peter Fischer, Minister for Economics at the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, and Ms. Lynn Croneberger, CEO of SOS Children’s Villages-USA, who showed her gratitude to be the GACC South’s Gala’s charity partner.
In his position as Chairman of the GACC South’s Board of Directors, Mr. Martin Richenhagen, Chairman, President, and CEO of AGCO Corp., thanked the GACC South for 35 years of dedication to promoting German business in the United States and strengthening the transatlantic partnership by actively working to integrate more industries, businesses, and entrepreneurs.
35 years of progress: Founding of the GACC South in 1978
Following these remarks and great applause, Mr. Richenhagen and Mrs. Stellmaszek honored Dr. Eike Jordan with an award for his lifelong support and initial founding of the GACC South in 1978. Dr. Jordan was clearly moved by the standing ovations and the humorous yet informative presentation which featured pictures and highlights of 35 years of GACC South.
The evening ended with a Silent Auction; highlights included an electric guitar signed by all members of the Rolling Stones, a Montblanc Fountain Pen, a Lufthansa flight for two, and several autographed Sports Frames by legendary athletes.
It was a night to remember. The 19th Annual Gala will take place on November 1, 2014, when members and guests will celebrate the transatlantic community, German-American business, and success built on a strong foundation.
The complete picture gallery of this year’s annual Gala can be found here.
Also, read the full Gala 2013 review on GACC’s website here.
German American Chamber of Commerce of the Southern U.S., Inc 