October 15, 2008, Fukuoka - Margot Carrington, Principal Officer of the American Consulate, Fukuoka, spoke to members of the Fukuoka-based association "Kyara-no-kai," which is made up of local women executives. Approximately 30 members participated in the evening speech and dinner program.

Carrington talked about how working women in the U.S. balance work and family obligations, pointing out some of the challenges mothers in both the U.S. and Japan must confront as they pursue active careers outside the home.