It was a pleasant morning and afternoon by Florida standards, bright and sunny with a slight breeze. It was a perfect day to showcase the bright and colorful culture of Taiwan for the local community. It was a perfect day for the 2nd Annual Taiwanese Heritage Festival of Central Florida.

This event was hosted by the Central Florida Taiwanese Association, and was emceed by Tony Coolidge. ATAYAL was able to share information on Taiwan's indigenous culture with the local community as well.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony kicked off the event, with Orlando City Commissioner Patty Sheehan, Director General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Miami, Chung Chen, and his assistant Ms. Sylvia Yang, cutting the ribbon. Commissioner Patty Sheehan and Director General Chung Chen exchanged gifts and made brief speeches. The Commissioner read a Proclamation by her and the Mayor of Orlando, praising the contributions of the Taiwanese-Americans to the community, and declaring May 24th, 2003, Taiwanese Heritage Festival Day. She also gave the Director General a Key to the City of Orlando. Director General Chung Chen praised Commissioner Sheehan for being a champion of cultural diversity, and presented a plaque. Central Florida Taiwanese Association Allen Chen acknowledged the accomplishments of the Taiwanese people and made a plea for citizens to help with the SARS crisis in Taiwan.