Director-General Douglas Hsu joined Rhode Island Lt. Governor Daniel McKee and Blackstone Valley Tourism Council President Robert Billington for the introduction of 6 dragon boats donated by Taiwan at a press conference for the 20th Dragon Boat Races and Taiwan Day Festival on August 22, 2019.
Director-General Hsu expressed his appreciation to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC), Formosa Plastics Group, Crystal Windows & Door Systems, Ltd, STUF United Fund, and the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce of North America for sponsoring the dragon boats.
Lt. Governor McKee also stated that the six dragon boats are a symbol of Taiwan’s renewed commitment to Rhode Island for the everlasting friendship and even stronger relations between Rhode Island and Taiwan.
There will be an eye-dotting ceremony for the new dragon boats and a reception on September 6 from 6 pm-8 pm at Festival Pier, Pawtucket, Rhode Island. The 2019 Dragon Boat Races and Taiwan Day Festival will be held on September 7 from 9 am-5 pm also at Festival Pier along the Pawtucket River in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. Activities also include traditional Chinese arts and crafts, great food, and exciting performances. The winner will receive a round-trip airline ticket (NYC-TPE) to Taiwan provided by Eva Air and China Airlines.
The Rhode Island Dragon Boat Races and Taiwan Day Festival is now in its 20th year. It’s a wonderful opportunity to share Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage with friends from across the region. For more details, please visit the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council’s website: www.dragonboat.ri.com or call: 401-724-2200.