AmCham Thanksgiving Charity Dinner 2024
Rushing in from the crisp November air, guests entered the magnificent Hotel Bristol wrapped in warmth and autumn flair.
From the Bristol Hall stage, AmCham Managing Director Jason Turflinger welcomed members, partners and friends to the annual charity dinner, thanking sponsors 3M, KPMG, and Merck for their support.
The evening, rooted in giving back and giving thanks, featured Hotel Bristol Chefs Jan Frode Berentsen and Niklas Johnsen’s traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings, followed by pecan, pumpkin, and apple pies that earned compliments from all! Accompanying the dinner were Lapis Luna Pinot Noir and Lapis Luna Chardonnay. The ceremonial turkey carving was performed by 3M Global Commercial Contracting Leader and AmCham Chair Ketil Nordengen.
Profound Gratitude
Hege Horsberg, Head of Marketing & Communications at Norsk Folkehjelp represented the evening’s charity partner and presented the organization’s life-saving work on mine action and disarmament, rescue service and first aid, and improving living- and humanitarian conditions all around the world.
Trade Minister Cecilie Myrseth followed, affirming the importance and impact of American companies in Norway, as well as Norwegian companies’ presence in the US, referencing data from the newly published AmCham report. Myrseth recognized the value to Norwegians of American culture as a way to learn and connect to one another, noting “I am grateful for the bond between our two countries, grateful for the things we have achieved together, and for how both have benefited from trade and an exchange of knowledge and ideas.”
"I am grateful for the bond between our two countries, grateful for the things we have achieved together, and for how both have benefited from trade and an exchange of knowledge and ideas."
US Embassy Chargé d’affaires Eric Meyer proceeded to give his remarks, providing a brief history of Thanksgiving, and emphasized the tradition of giving to impactful and meaningful programs such as the evening’s charity partner. He shared valuable insights into the future of transatlantic business relations, stating that “our longstanding and strong bilateral relationship is based on common interest, shared values, and historical ties.”
Luck and Generosity
The highly anticipated raffle and auction were next up, with raffle prizes being announced by AmCham’s Madeleine Brekke, to the delight of lucky winners.
Auction prizes were then auctioned off at rapid pace by Thor Morten Wangen, with items ranging from an air purifier from Airthings, a language program from Berlitz, and a model plane from Lockheed Martin.
The raffle and auction, with prizes generously donated by members, added excitement to the evening, and raised a record-breaking NOK 130 000 for Norsk Folkehjelp) and their vital work.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our members, partners, and friends who joined us for this year’s Thanksgiving Charity Dinner.
Please click on the left to read the letter from Raymond Johansen, Secretary General of the Norwegian People’s Aid
