MY PARTNER, MY FRIEND
by Claudia Clark

Bookclub Reading and Discussion

22 January 2019

When was the last time you heard a politician say: "It´s fun to work together"? It may seem like a lifetime ago, but those words were spoken by President Obama describing his relationship with Chancellor Angela Merkel. We were privileged to hear these and other revelations during the evening our Bookclub spent with Claudia Clark, author of My Partner, My Friend.

Exhaustively researched, the book details a relationship that started with caution, progressed into trust, and grew into friendship. Especially in today´s polarized world, it seems almost quaint to observe the interaction between the two leaders who were able to relax with each other while tackling the world´s problems because of their own authenticity and their affinity and respect for each other.

Claudia, a Democrats Abroad member, was compelled to write the book because, especially in light of what is happening today, it is instructive to re-examine how personal relationships between those in power contribute to peace. What has been lost—communication, working through differences, the willingness to compromise—should be a lesson for us all. We look forward to reading more when the book is published, both in English and in German.

Text by Maryann Schmunk

Tax Information Event for Americans Living Abroad

Saturday, 2 February 2019

Following a tradition of offering information for all Americans living Abroad, we were pleased that once again, certified public account David Opperman agreed to talk us through the responsibilities and potential confusions involved in tax filing from abroad. The room was packed to capacity on this grey afternoon as David patiently described what most of us found to be a confusing set of rules navigating between the German and American tax systems. There was plenty of time for questions and the attentive group was visibly relieved by the end of the afternoon, even finding comical moments despite the serious subject matter. After listening to what some people have gone through in the past, and how hard it is to receive answers, we can only express our gratitude to David for his advice once again.

*The generous support of the SPD made it possible to hold this event in the heart of Hamburg.

Text by Maryann Schmunk