The Foreign Service Journal, June 2025

90 JUNE 2025 | THE FOREIGN SERVICE JOURNAL BY WEST FOLLMER n SHANGHAI, CHINA Please submit your favorite, recent photograph to be considered for Local Lens. Images must be high resolution (at least 300 dpi at 8” x 10”, or 1 MB or larger) and must not be in print elsewhere. Include a short description of the scene/event as well as your name, brief biodata, and the type of camera used. Send to locallens@afsa.org. LOCAL LENS A local man practices the classic Chinese ribbon dragon dance at sunset along the Bund, a mile-long stretch along the Huangpu River, in Shanghai. An important part of Chinese cultural celebrations and festivals, dragon dancing is believed to bring prosperity and drive away evil spirits. The ribbon dragon dance form has become a popular pastime for active elders looking for a traditional twist to their workout routines. n West Follmer is a Foreign Service officer currently serving in Beijing. This photo was taken with a Nikon Z6II.

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