Principal Officer Bids Farewell in Radio Interview

Listeners of Adana’s Kral Radio were treated to “Yesterday” by the Beatles on air during an exclusive live interview with U.S. Consul Eric Green, who chose the song as part of a farewell interview on Ayfun Kaplan’s popular morning program. Speaking both Turkish and English, Green expressed appreciation to the people of Adana for their hospitality to his family and he recalled his best memories in his 3-year tour, including Consulate-sponsored cultural events and creating opportunities for dialogue between Americans and Turks. Green will conclude his assignment as Consul and Principal Officer next week.

American Independence Day Reception

Recalling his service 26 years earlier at the U.S. Consulate in Adana, Ambassador James Jeffrey declared to guests at Adana’s Independence Day reception that “Adana is my first home in Turkey.”  Ambassador Jeffrey and his wife Gudrun joined Principal Officer Eric Green and his wife Erica in welcoming about 350 people in celebrating the 233rd anniversary of America’s Declaration of Independence.  In his remarks, Ambassador Jeffrey also honored members of the American armed forces, including the airmen serving at Adana’s Incirlik Air Base.  Principal Officer Green thanked the numerous Turkish organizations that have supported the Consulate during his three years serving in Adana and expressed gratitude for the hospitality shown to him and his family during their time in Turkey.  The guests, who were assembled in the garden of the Adana Hilton, enjoyed views of the Seyhan river, a 2000-year-old Roman bridge and the luminous Sabanci Mosque.

American Filmmaker Engages Audiences of All Ages

Documentary filmmaker Geeta Patel and cinema specialist Sandra Ruch screened Geeta's film, "Project Kashmir," at Adana's Altin Koza Film Festival and for students at Tarsus Amerikan Koleji June 8 and 9.  Project Kashmir explores the human and emotional impact of the decades-long conflict on all of the inhabitants in that region.  After the screenings, Geeta and Sandra answered questions about the making of the film, the issues it raised, and the future of Kashmir.  Geeta and Sandra's visit was made possible by the American Documentary Showcase, a U.S. State Department program that promotes intercultural understanding by sharing documentary films around the world and giving audiences opportunities to hear insights from those who make them.