Behind the scenes of Sunrider: IP attorney

During Convention, the members of the Legal Department help guide tours of Sunrider World Headquarters. It is interesting meeting IBOs/ABOs from around the world, but I dread answering the inevitable question: “What do you do at Sunrider?” When I say that I am senior counsel primarily responsible for all intellectual property issues, I usually encounter confused looks (which I am used to, because most non-IP attorneys also do not understand my job). A further explanation that I coordinate Sunrider’s worldwide portfolio of trademarks, patents, copyrights, domain names, and related disputes only makes my job title less clear. Explaining that I’m responsible for the ® and ™ symbols they see on Sunrider product names is enough to satisfy their curiosity. With this blog post, I’d like to explain a little more about what I do here at Sunrider, and how that helps IBOs/ABOs.

The largest part of my job is management of Sunrider’s extensive worldwide trademark portfolio. For those who do not know, a trademark is a name or symbol that lets consumers know where a product or service originates. This is really important here at Sunrider because of all of the time and effort Drs. Chen put into Sunrider® products. When someone tries Quinary® or Fortune Delight® for the first time, they learn the product names and see the Sunrider name and logo on the packaging. When they learn how these products are formulated and manufactured, they then associate those names and logos with Sunrider’s commitment to high standards. If they encounter the Sunrider brand elsewhere, they will automatically assume similar levels of product quality.

This is why it is essential to protect Sunrider’s names and logos worldwide. Working with two indispensable paralegals (both have been at Sunrider for over 15 years!), we maintain Sunrider’s trademarks in all affiliate countries (plus a number of other strategic countries). With the assistance of a number of international law firms, we deal with trademark offices in about 80 countries. We file trademark applications, which are reviewed, argued, and (hopefully) approved and registered. Sunrider has over 3500 trademark registrations worldwide, and almost 700 pending trademark applications. We also have a large number of ongoing trademark disputes, often trying to stop a trademark that is too similar to a Sunrider mark. With strong trademarks around the world, the Chens can promote Sunrider’s brands worldwide, opening and expanding markets for IBOs and ABOs.

Another large part of my job is reviewing all Sunrider labels and US marketing materials for intellectual property issues (yes, often in languages I do not understand). There is a legal difference between ® and ™, and I need to make sure the right symbol is used (and when not to use any symbol). Another lawyer and paralegal also must approve these materials; however they look at non-IP issues. I also file copyright applications to protect the text, images, and photographs in all Sunrider marketing materials—so that no one can use these without Sunrider’s permission. All of this ensures that all marketing materials and product packaging comply with applicable laws, do not infringe the rights of others, and are available for the exclusive use of IBOs and ABOs.

A growing part of my job involves the Internet. I manage Sunrider’s worldwide domain name portfolio and enforce Sunrider’s trademarks in domain names as well as Internet content. When you submit an English website for compliance review through the Internet Compliance Form, I’m the one who does that review. I have been an Internet server administrator (professionally and as a hobby) since 1993. As a “secret” computer geek, I have been able to assist Sunrider’s expansion into social media (including Facebook and Twitter). This background has also allowed me to participate in several organizations working to help strengthen trademark rights on the Internet.

A question that IBOs/ABOs ask SR employees at Convention is, “What do you like about working for Sunrider?” It’s a tough question for me to answer unless they know the details of my job, so I can now finally answer it here. My favorite part of my job is identifying new trademarks. When the Chens have a new product or idea, they need to choose a name. Because new trademarks cannot be similar to existing ones, the Chens suggest a number of names that I then search. I research trademark databases and the Internet, and let the Chens know which names may be available. Sometimes this involves several rounds, because some proposed names are not available for use. Once chosen, we then file trademark applications around the world. This is fun because I learn about products early in development, enjoy gaining some insight into the Chens’ thought process, and see how Sunrider continues to grow after 27 years. And no- I can’t give any hints about what’s coming up!

Sunrider Supports BYU Homecoming Event

Sunrider was a proud sponsor of the 2009 BYU Homecoming Spectacular—“Reach for the Summit,” which took place October 22–23, 2009, in Provo, UT. Sunrider was happy to support Brigham Young University with a US$4,500 donation and the uplifting message “to stretch your mind, spirit, and future as far as you can.”

The annual Homecoming Spectacular draws thousands of alumni to the university every October to celebrate. The program includes amazing performances by the BYU International Ballroom Dance Team, vocalists, the orchestra, and Young Ambassadors. Dr. Oi-Lin Chen, Sunny & Jonathan Beutler, Eric Chen, and Jonathan & Chelsea Chen all attended this event for their alma mater.

Professionally Produced Sunrider Presentation Available for Viewing

We have great news, Sunriders! The beautifully finished presentation video shown at Convention (and two recent Product Fairs held at World Headquarters) can now be viewed online, and will soon be available for purchase with the Grand Convention Highlights DVD (available in multiple languages).

Aptly titled “Sunrider—An Introduction,” this short presentation highlights Sunrider’s history, Dr. Chen’s passion for high quality products, the Philosophy of Regeneration™, and our outstanding business plan. It provides a unique glimpse into the makings of Sunrider and the backgrounds of Drs. Chen, and captures the essence of the Sunrider brand. It’s a dynamic “must-have” tool for your Sunrider arsenal.

So take a peek at this powerful new video on YouTube or Facebook. We hope you’re as excited as we are!

Grand Convention News

It’s July, time for the annual Grand Convention, and this year’s event is truly grand in every way. The words “inspirational, motivational, sensational” only begin to describe it. The Convention provides the ultimate chance to learn from Drs. Chen and top business leaders, enjoy the Sunrider lifestyle, and connect with fellow Sunriders. Optimize your life with Sunrider!

Convention Countdown

The Grand Opening & Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony of the Los Angeles Manufacturing Plants is Wednesday, July 23. Drs. Chen and Sunriders everywhere are looking forward to this monumental day! Make sure to see the announcement and slideshow of these state-of-the-art facilities at the Sunrider website.

Everything Under the Sun!

With its ideal weather, great location, and world-famous attractions, Anaheim is the perfect place to combine Sunrider business and pleasure. Many Sunrider events will be held at the Anaheim Convention Center— the largest convention center on the West Coast of the United States. Dramatic, modern, and sophisticated, this California landmark is also a cornerstone in the new 1,100-acre district called the Anaheim Resort, which includes the Disneyland theme parks, richly landscaped pedestrian walkways, and the Anaheim GardenWalk—the new hot spot in Orange County that’s described as “an oasis of dining, shopping, and entertainment.”

What to Wear

Business wear is appropriate for meetings and General Sessions. Formal attire or black-tie should be worn for Gala Evening events.

Light, comfortable clothing and comfortable walking shoes are recommended for tours. Hats and sunglasses may also be worn for sun protection.

We also recommend that you bring a light-weight sweater or jacket in case of cooler temperature fluctuations in meeting rooms and air-conditioned buses.

Anaheim Weather

Typical summer weather is sunny and warm in the daytime with cool evenings. The average high temperature in July is 84°F/29°C. For a current weather forecast, click here.

2008 Sunrider Leadership Conference—Mediterranean Cruise, May 10th to 15th

We really wanted to make this year’s Europe Leadership Conference something very special. An event that would truly show the Sunrider Lifestyle! After discussing it last year with Mrs. Chen, we both agreed that a Mediterranean cruise would be the way to sail, as we could enjoy the beauty of the Mediterranean coastline and countryside.

No other part of the world is so richly imbued with history and culture, and blessed with such spectacular scenery as Europe. The cruise vacation brought us to some of the most exciting ports in Europe. The days ashore presented an invitation to adventure, education, and enjoyment, discovering the beauty of the Mediterranean and over 25 centuries of history, art and culture. Some of the IBOs had never been on a cruise and were not sure about the idea, but on the last day, I was so happy when so many came to see me to say that the cruise was amazing and that they had already called their downline to let them know what they had missed!

Want to know more?

The first port: Provence (Marseille), France. Some of the IBOs went on a city tour that was a journey through the historical and maritime past of Marseille, known as the melting pot of Europe. They passed Marseille's large industrial harbor after departing the pier and headed towards the city center. En route to the Notre-Dame de la Garde Cathedral, they viewed the historic, older section of the city. Notre-Dame de la Garde is a beautiful basilica set high atop the hills above the Old Harbor, and its interior is finished with multicoloured marble mosaics. The journey from the Cathedral to Longchamp Palace took them along a road that runs alongside the sea with a stop to take photos and to view the beautiful islands guarding the entrance to Marseille. The final stop was at Longchamp Palace, a monumental castle adorned with magnificent fountains, waterfalls and gardens.

The second port: Cagliari, Sardinia. Some IBOs went on a sightseeing tour that allowed them to discover the hidden beauties of this magnificent city. It began with a drive from the pier to the city walls where they admired the Roman amphitheatre. Then they visited the National Archaeology Museum to discover many archaeological finds like the typical Sardinian small bronzes and the Nora Stone (ninth century B.C.), where Sardinia is mentioned for the first time. They also walked in the heart of the medieval city and explored its beauty.

The third port: Palermo, Sicily. Italy, probably the most beautiful country (my Italian roots might be affecting my judgment). Palermo was named by the Ancient Greeks as “Panormus,” meaning “all port.” Its beauty, history and elegance were revealed as some of the IBOs decided to travel the streets of Palermo. The city is noted for its rich history, culture, architecture and gastronomy, which played an important role throughout much of its existence; it is over 2,700 years old! They walked along the Via Liberta, considered to be the most important street in the city because of its size and the double row of plane trees that line this majestic way. They admired Teatro Politeama, the main theatre of the town built in the 19th century and strolled along the Via Ruggero Settimo, also known as the salon of Palermo because of the elegance of its shops. What an experience!

It was such an exciting week that I forgot to mention that the conference, hosted by Drs. Chen, was held onboard the impressive ship “Navigator of the Seas.” Over 270 Independent Business Owners from all over Europe, Hungary, Israel, Russia and South Africa enjoyed the Sunrider Lifestyle while sailing through the deep blue Mediterranean Sea.

The Navigator of the Seas is one of the biggest vessels in the world, with so much to see and do onboard. She offers amazing features like a spa, gym, rock-climbing wall, ice-skating rink, an indoor shopping mall-like promenade, as well as fine food in the magnificent three-storey dining room. Every night finishes off with top-class entertainment in the elegant theatre.

The Leadership Conference meetings were held in the ship’s Conference Centre and provided attendees with inspiration and motivation. Dr. Chen shared his powerful Business Advice by explaining the 4-step Sunrider approach and the 6-point opportunity meeting. He reminded everyone to train their Downlines in this method, to practice the various steps with them and to talk about the income potential that Sunrider can bring to every Independent Business Owner. Sunrider has already helped many people around the world achieve their optimal goals.* Mrs. Chen followed with her special energy and enthusiasm as she conducted the New IBO Training and tested the Business Leaders on Frequently Asked Questions. Drs. Chen also presented new products that will be launched at the upcoming Grand Convention in Anaheim, California. Mrs. Chen ended the meeting by surprising everyone with a raffle where happy winners received samples of the innovative new products.

It truly was a memorable week and another example of how Sunriders from all over the world can enjoy the fantastic Sunrider lifestyle and optimize their lives.*

Next is the event of the year—the Grand Convention in Anaheim, California!

Come and join thousands of other IBOs for another unforgettable experience. Register on-line and mark your calendars, July 21–26.

Looking forward to seeing you in beautiful Anaheim, California!

Angelo De Fabrizio
Director of Regional Operations
Sunrider Central & Western Europe

*The earnings stated are not necessarily representative or typical of the earnings Sunrider Independent Business Owners can or will earn through participation in the Sunrider Compensation Plan. These statements should not be considered as guarantees or projections of your actual earnings or profits. As with any other independent business, success results only from dedicated sales efforts, hard work, diligence, and leadership.

IBOs Meet with Success at SR HQ

Business Leader training meetings were held at Sunrider World Headquarters April 23–25. During this time Dr. and Mrs. Chen shared their knowledge and hospitality with two groups of specially invited IBOs who arrived from around the world. In addition to attending meetings, IBOs from Canada, China, Malaysia, the USA, and Taiwan were given tours of the Chen Art Gallery, the Botanical Garden, and the incredible new manufacturing facilities in Los Angeles. The invitees were also treated as guests of the Chens—dining with them at a local restaurant and at their beautiful home, where they enjoyed great food and company.

When they got down to business, the meetings were fast-paced, full of energy, and packed with practical training. As always, they were also punctuated with insights from both Chens.

Dr. Chen got everyone thinking when he posed the following question:

“When a lady goes out shopping, what does she think about first? When you shop for a new car, what do you consider first?”

Personally, I was stumped. My wife wasn’t there to help me with the first question. And it had been years since I bought a new car…

Dr. Chen quickly provided the answer though: “The Brand.”

Dr. Chen elaborated by saying, “Brand is first, style next, and material last. Likewise, “When you buy a car, first you think of the brand.”

Dr. Chen went on to describe how it’s up to all IBOs to increase the brand recognition of Sunrider. He stated the importance of presenting “a unified look, approach, and communication,” which helps establish a strong, readily identifiable brand image.

Dr. Chen had this to say about the Sunrider opportunity:

“Why is Sunrider’s franchise-like business the best? Let’s compare it to some other ways one can try to make money:

“Buying and renting out real estate property is too much hassle. And the rent may not even cover the interest on a bank loan. Stock markets have too much fluctuation, too much risk. A franchise business can be good but it takes a BIG initial investment.

“Sunrider’s franchise-like business is the best. Sunrider takes the hassle out of owning a business. No inventory, virtually no risk—you simply use Sunrider’s time-tested [26 years!] system and support. You can build an enterprise like McDonald’s, but without the trouble and at a low cost. And Sunrider is different from other network marketing companies because as a Sunrider IBO, you’re the boss—the owner of your own franchise-like business—not a salesperson.”

Mrs. Chen covered a range of topics, including the need to develop a 2^nd generation of business leaders:

“Have your business continue into the future. Building a strong support system will enable you to have financial freedom when you retire. We need to do better about explaining the income potential of Sunrider to the 2^nd generation. Encourage your kids just like I’m encouraging my kids to take over the business someday. Have them choose Sunrider, because we have the greatest income potential and you can help people everywhere improve the quality of their lives. Bring your children to the Grand Convention in July—my daughters Sunny and Wendy will be teaching a workshop especially designed for the next generation.”

Dr. and Mrs. Chen also talked about the importance of setting big optimum goals and the power of having a big dream. Dr. Chen helped wrap up the training by providing a personal example of how through having a dream and working hard, anything is possible:

While growing up as a child, his family was poor and they didn’t have much. His prized possession was a broken toy airplane that he’d found. He loved that plane though and fixed it up the best he could. He played with the plane every day and dreamed that someday he’d be able to fly on a real plane and see the world.

Today he does fly on an airplane—the Sunrider Corporate Airplane—which he uses to fly around the world with our IBOs, living the Sunrider dream.

Bob Seawright
Sunrider International

Dr. and Mrs. Chen Host a Truly Korean Experience at the 2008 Leadership Training Seminar in Korea

I had visited Korea a number of times, and as the saying goes, you never get tired of falling in love with something beautiful. Korea is such a place in my heart. And I talk a lot about “love” in this blog because love was the subject of our theme travel. For our 75 IBOs from Singapore and Malaysia, my colleagues and myself, the minute we touched down on Seoul, we were transformed into young lovers of Korea’s culture, film stars, beauty, kimchi …. and not forgetting the friendship that bonded us as one Sunrider family.

We started off on a blissful Sunday morning on 16th March, to Chuncheon and Namiseom Island, which are the location places for the shooting of that famous Korean drama, “Winter Sonata”. This is one of the most popular TV series in Korea, Hong Kong, China, Japan and even Malaysia. The series is built around the romance of falling in love for the first time….. and for all time (sigh …) Well, you should have been there to see, touch and experience all the lovely mementoes, souvenirs, pictures and the actual settings where the filming was done. I’m quite sure you would be just as swept off your feet by the romance of it all!

We were brought back to reality when we were told that there is a small ostrich farm on Namiseom Island, and one could race with the ostriches while riding bicycles. But we didn’t take up the challenge!

Our next stop was the Aqua World, which is an indoor water park with numerous therapeutic hot springs such as pine-tree spring and fruit-extract spring, saunas including Jade Sauna, Charcoal Sauna and Amethyst Sauna. We loved the Health Pool Zone and Amusement Zone. There was also a Water Slide for our young-at-heart IBOs, a massage corner for women and even a Couple Bath for couples.

The Monday morning of 17th March saw us at Mt. Sorak National Park. It was really the most awesome experience for all of us. Everything was covered with snow (well, almost everything!). The Park’s spiky mountain peaks, crystal clear ponds, rock formations, valleys and waterfalls were so serene, just like a Korean painting.

We explored Abai Village, which is the filming location of another famous Korean series, “Endless Love”. Abai Village has the distinction of being the heroine, Eun-Seo’s hometown. As we walked along the quaint homes and stores that were reminiscent of the ‘60s and ‘70s, we felt really connected to the tragic heroine and how she must have felt when she had to leave her lover.

We also visited the majestic Shinheung Temple, a massive and beautiful architecture which was built by a monk named Chanjang during the Shilla Dynasty. We easily agreed with our Guide that this is by far the most impressive temple in the Sorak Mountain area!

From romantics, we were turned into children (albeit BIG children) on Tuesday, 18th March at the Everland Resort. This is South Korea’s largest theme park and it has been ranked sixth in the world. We had lots of fun, starting at the European Adventure and enjoying the thrills and spills that took us through the vibrant themes of Magic Land, American Land and Global Fair. It was a great opportunity to snap photos, enjoy the spectacular shows and the rides.

Well, all this made us pretty adventurous ……. for some retail therapy! Our guide took us to Dongdaemun Market, one of the major markets in Korea with over 20 shopping malls that specialize in wholesale clothing, and we found some very good bargains for clothes, accessories and shoes.

On Wednesday 19th March, Dr. and Mrs. Chen hosted a leadership training seminar for a small group of selected IBOs. They were given very extensive training on business concept, the importance of setting optimum goals, business building, and duplication. They also were trained on frequently asked questions, new IBOs training, leadership and recognition.

Concurrent with this training seminar, the rest of our IBOs toured Sunrider Korea’s new office. They were very impressed with the office and took many photos to share with their downlines.

Later, this group of IBOs continued with the last day of the tour and visited a Kimchi factory for an inside look at Korea’s most relished food. Kimchi, as many would know, is the country’s national heritage and the main staple of Korean daily diet. We learnt that it is traditionally prepared with Chinese cabbage, red pepper, garlic, salted fish, ginger and other natural ingredients, then stored underground in clay containers to ferment for at least four weeks.

Did we say that this was the last stop for our IBOs? Hold your horses! Our IBOs would never return to our hotel without one last shopping spree, and this time they went to Myeongdong Market. Our IBOs had a fantastic time shopping at what is tagged as the trendiest, most fashionable shopping district in the country. They found a variety of stores from upscale boutiques and fashion malls to small stalls, and bought quality brand-name fashion wear, accessories and luxury items. They were so proud and happy to pay for everything with their Sunrider money and said that they truly enjoyed the Sunrider successful lifestyle!*

Finally, after all that shopping, sightseeing, photo-taking, having fun and enjoying Korean food, we were all ready to settle down for what everyone had come for: Dr. and Mrs. Chen’s Leadership Training Seminar. Our IBOs joined more than 400 IBOs from Hong Kong and Taiwan at the prestigious Imperial Palace Hotel, South Korea.

Our IBOs were excited and thrilled with the Chens’ presence. They found Dr. Chen’s advice on promoting SR’s potential income and SR's products, aiming for the optimum goal, and recruiting more than 10 IBOs every month particularly useful. They also felt that they understood more clearly why Sunrider is better than a franchise business and the role of IBOs in the Company.

Our IBOs were nervous when Mrs.Chen took over the rest of the session as they were aware that Mrs.Chen would ask them how they conducted their New IBOs Training as well as the FAQs.

However, Mrs. Chen put everyone at ease, and when she called participants to answer her questions, they actually found the experience fun, enjoyable and challenging, albeit slightly nerve-wrecking!

In fact, our IBOs were grateful when Mrs. Chen pointed out their mistakes, as they felt that they could remember better this way. Under Mrs. Chen’s training, they understood why such training should be conducted regularly especially for new IBOs.

At the Gala Dinner later that evening, it was truly a glamorous Korean finale to a wonderful week. Dr. and Mrs. Chen got everyone to join in the celebration with their friendliness. Dinner was absolutely delicious and everyone loved the Classical Music Performance by the Korea Tourism Board, as well as the various performances put up by the different countries’ IBOs. From Malaysia, we had two IBO performances and from Singapore, there was one. They were really spectacular to watch as our IBOs danced and sang, and got everyone into the party mood!

Another highlight was when Dr. and Mrs. Chen went on stage to sing, and were greeted by overwhelming applause. The Chens also invited the leaders from the VIP table to sing on stage, and our leaders did just that! Our leaders drew a lot of support from the audience for their hearty, albeit slightly off-tune, singing and everyone enjoyed the fun of it all.

The Chens were very generous and gave the new IBOs valuable gifts of Sunrider’s new products, which will be launched at the Grand Convention in July 2008. The new IBOs were really touched by the Chens’ generosity. The magical night finished off with a karaoke session and disco, and as the saying goes, the sun never goes down for those who work hard and play hard!

Shirley Tay
Director of Regional Operations
Sunrider Malaysia

*The earnings stated are not necessarily representative or typical of the earnings Sunrider Independent Business Owners can or will earn through participation in the Sunrider Compensation Plan. These statements should not be considered as guarantees or projections of your actual earnings or profits. As with any other independent business, success results only from dedicated sales efforts, hard work, diligence, and leadership.

Drs. Chen Host 400 Sunrider Business Leaders at the Leadership Conference in Hawaii!

If you polled the 400 North American Business Leaders who attended the Leadership Conference in Honolulu, Hawaii, held during February 17 – 24, all of them would give it “two thumbs up!” The setting at the luxurious Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa overlooking a wide stretch of beach and the Pacific Ocean was a paradise and it just got better and better as the week went on.

We started out on Monday afternoon, loaded on nine buses, with a visit to the famous Polynesian Culture Center, where we spent eight hours enjoying a taste of South Pacific culture, visiting native villages, and viewing an IMAX presentation. We then were treated to an authentic luau and an amazing and spectacular two-hour show with a cast of over 100 that kept the audience riveted.

Tuesday’s tour to the Pearl Harbor monument was relevant and moving. We watched an historical film depicting the events of December 7, 1941, and the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, and then took the ferryboat to the Arizona Memorial, which sits on top of the sunken hull of the battleship USS Arizona. This memorial honors the crewmen who lost their lives during the attack. It was an emotional tour and we were touched by it.

We had a delicious buffet lunch following Pearl Harbor at an upscale Japanese restaurant and had the entire place to ourselves! The city bus tour took us to places of interest giving a perspective of island culture, history and landscape.

Wednesday and Thursday were “free” days allowing Sunriders to select leisure activities of their choice, which for many included hiking, snorkeling, shopping, or island hopping. During this time we also had seven Opportunity and Training meetings featuring the sought-after John Teng. Approximately 250 people attended these productive, positive, and informative sessions, including guests from Hawaii.

Thursday and Saturday mornings, selected key leaders and guests were invited to a special meeting with Drs. Chen.

Friday’s General Meeting, which was emceed by Jeff Smith, was open to everyone and it was inspirational and exceptionally motivational. There was energy in the room and Dr. Chen really was at his best – and most of you know how powerful his message can be! He reiterated his Business Building Advice, focusing on the 4-step approach techniques. Dr. Chen then went on to urge the IBOs to make approaches a habit and said that when they do this, sponsoring will happen naturally. To get to this point, Dr. Chen talked about what they have to do: (1) change their mindset; (2) have the courage the face the ensuing challenges; and (3) work hard to achieve their “optimal” goal. No one does it better than Dr. Chen as he mixes humor, business acumen, and logic to drive home the point. Based on the feedback I have received, he did drive home the message.

Mrs. Chen followed him with her energy and enthusiasm and presented a PowerPoint on Frequently Asked Questions. She feels these are extremely important and that all business builders should learn them and be able to answer them with confidence and clarity. She asked the questions and had the IBOs answer the questions.

The lunch that followed at the hotel was like all the meals we shared in Hawaii – EXCELLENT! We got more compliments on this conference, food-wise, than on any of our conventions or cruises. As a matter of fact, all the comments on the Leadership Conference have been extremely positive, if not glowing.

Friday evening was an exceptionally enjoyable event. The two-hour Alii Kai Catamaran Sunset Dinner Cruise was a resounding success! Sunriders were treated royally and had the entire deck reserved exclusively for them. Everyone had a great time listening to Polynesian music and dancing. The entertainers also did a fantastic job in getting all IBOs to participate in dancing with them, even after the boat docked back in port. Once again, the food was delicious and it was a fun-packed evening.

Finally, the week was drawing to a close, but the Saturday evening Banquet was a grand finale to a fabulous week. Don Caster emceed the evening and kept it going. The buffet dinner was sumptuous, and the highlight of the evening was the IBO performers! There were seven groups that were creative, imaginative, and entertaining – worthy of American Idol! A great moment was when Dr. Chen serenaded Mrs. Chen singing, “I can’t help falling in love with you.” Even the staff was talked into a karaoke version of “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.” Dr. Chen once again brought his single-minded passion to the evening and inspired IBOs to make a commitment to change, and approach using the 4-steps and make sponsoring a habit. Mrs. Chen held a raffle where over 50 excited and happy winners won innovative products such as the Antioxidant, Brightening Eye Cream, Color Compact Cases, and new Lip Colors – all of which will be launched during Grand Convention! It truly was a memorable evening.

IBOs enjoyed another incentive from our marketing plan – a free vacation in Hawaii! The average Travel Incentive Check was $2,200, which fully paid for a week-long vacation in a setting where the rich and famous play!

When they get back to their homes, the challenge to the IBOs was to have the courage to make the changes that Drs. Chen urged everyone to make. We have no doubt that they will make that commitment to change – I have heard that from many. We are also looking forward to the IBOs making a concerted effort to promote and attend the upcoming Grand Convention in Anaheim, California, with their downlines so they too can immerse themselves in the grandeur of Sunrider while enjoying the global camaraderie, inspiration, and pride this most important event provides.
Aloha, Sunriders, until Grand Convention 2008 at Anaheim!

Ras Jeyakumar
Director, Regional Operations
North & South America

Simply the Best Seat in the House

As a Sunrider employee, it’s always a pleasure and a privilege to have the chance to listen to Dr. Tei-Fu and Dr. Oi-Lin Chen in person, something that normally I only get to do once a year during Grand Convention when I work onsite and attend various events. So I was excited when I was asked to attend a special meeting held at SR HQ last Thursday. The meeting involved North American Business Leaders and Drs. Chen getting together to discuss various business matters, and as Dr. Chen said, “to improve communication and get everyone on the same page.”

For the meeting, I was asked by my manager, Wendy Teng, to take notes for future articles; but during the course of the meeting I found it difficult to do, as I’d become so engrossed in what the Chens were saying that I’d sometimes forget to put pen to paper.

Dr. Chen has always impressed me with his charisma and confident yet engaging personality. He’s a business visionary who’s able to infuse his talks with a down-to-earth practicality and a natural sense of humor, making any topic accessible and entertaining (even the stuff dealing with calculation formulas!). It doesn’t matter what country or culture you come from—when Dr. Chen speaks, you want to listen. I can see how people around the world have been attracted to Sunrider with such a dynamic spokesperson and leader at the helm.

What struck a chord with me at this particular meeting was Dr. Chen’s message about the importance of having the “courage to change.” He gave examples how great leaders throughout history had the courage to change, to get out of their comfort zones, and make tough, sometimes unpopular decisions that paved the way for innovation and growth. Dr. Chen not only initiates change, but also embraces it when he believes it’ll benefit the lives of Sunriders. Having the courage and dexterity to adapt to changing circumstances and the willingness to learn from experience, and even from other companies, are attributes of his that I think have contributed to Sunrider’s continuous growth and success spanning over 25 years.

Mrs. Chen always amazes me with her boundless energy and incisive intellect. She’s always ready for any question an attendee might throw at her. And her ability to orchestrate a meeting, to say nothing of Grand Conventions and her global company, is remarkable. She’s the ultimate multi-tasker in my book.

At the meeting I saw how she’s able to cultivate success in business builders through her organized presentation of the Sunrider marketing plan and by sharing her expert business advice; but most of all I think she helps people maximize their potential through serving as an inspirational role model. Sure, Sunrider provides lots of excellent materials and marketing tools that provide guidance and the blueprints for success, but through experiencing Mrs. Chen, you get a real-life example of how to challenge yourself and go after your goals.

Attending the meeting also gave me the chance to meet some of the Business Leaders and to see them in action (Mrs. Chen sometimes likes to put people in the hot seat, in a good-natured way). Watching the leaders made me realize that although there was an undeniable diversity of backgrounds, ages, and personalities, there was a common denominator that made them all distinctly “Sunriders”—they all exuded an almost tangible passion for the Sunrider business. Hearing them tell their incredible success stories almost made me feel like switching from working at Sunrider to working in Sunrider, as an IBO. For the time being though, I like using the SR gym and working in the great environment at SR HQ too much to change just yet.

Thanks for your time; I need to sign off now to see if I can make sense of my meeting notes.

Bob Seawright

Marketing Dept.

Sunrider Corporate Office