LONG ISLAND, NY (TIP): For the first time in the history of India Association of Long Island (IALI), the oath & inauguration ceremony was organized in Suffolk County where IALI was born 37 years ago. The ceremony on January 22 at H. Lee Dennison Building, Hauppauge revived memories of old times.

The County Executive Steve Bellone & Grace Ioannidis of minority Affairs/community service of the Suffolk County Executive graced the occasion with their presence Several past presidents of IALI, many organization leaders, community leaders and dignitaries were present. The event was well attended by over 250 people; some came all the way from the east and west end of Long Island, in spite of freezing weather on a weekday and the impending severe snowstorm.

Hosted by the entire IALI 2016 Team, the event started off with a warm welcome to all attendees. The pledge of Allegiance was recited by all and was followed by American and Indian National Anthem, melodiously sung by the ladies of IALI. The Invocation ceremony with enchanting ancient Indian prayers and shlokas infused some fresh spiritual air into the atmosphere.

County Executive Steve Bellone warmly welcomed and congratulated the new Executive Council and sworn them into the office: Beena Kothari (President), Gunjan Rastogi (Vice President), Lalit Aery (Secretary), Vimal Goyal (Treasurer), 8 Members-at-large, 3 Standing Committee Chairs.

The County Executive was thrilled and appreciated in his remarks the commendable work done by the organization. Further, he also expressed his faith & confidence in the new Executive Council -the 2016 Team, under the leadership of the president, Mrs. Beena Kothari, to continue the community work to take it to a higher level.

The County Executive was honored with a special award for his extraordinary public service, exemplary dedication and outstanding service to Indian community on Long Island.

Then ceremony was followed with the Oath and swearing in of over 30 Ad-Hoc Committee Chairs and Co-Chairs by Grace Ioannidis of the county executive office. All Attendees applauded and welcomed the entire IALI Team 2016 wishing them good luck on their forthcoming endeavors.

IALI President, Mrs. Beena Kothari, addressed the audience and thanked everyone for their utmost confidence and faith, giving her the opportunity to be the President of India Association of Long Island, an organization that represents people of all diverse faiths, values and culture. She pointed out that we are in the process of creating new programs & key strategic initiatives to fulfill our commitments and objectives. She emphasized that we strongly believe in “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” which means “Whole World is ONE Family”. One of my goals would be to focus on promoting “Unity and Harmony among Diversity.” said President, Mrs. Beena Kothari. The organization in the truest sense will create collaborative programs and

increase ties with county governments, many local organizations to benefit all communities on Long Island for betterment of one and all.

Grace Ioannidis also honored and recognized the hard work by the outgoing Executive Council of 2015 by honoring them with Certificate of Appreciation. Outgoing President Mr. Satnam S. Parhar was called out for his 2-year term service as well as his dedication and persistent efforts for fulfilling the dream of IALI India Center, a proud achievement of this prestigious organization. He congratulated all Past and Present team and supporters for the ongoing success of the organization and expressed confidence in the leadership of new incoming President, Mrs. Beena Kothari that they will take it to the new heights. There were beautiful dance performances by the kids and the youngsters specially choreographed for the occasion.

The venue was elegantly decorated with Indian traditional décor and on-going slide shows in the background, portraying the history of the organization as well as the glimpses of the historic election were displayed. From Registration to photography, to seating arrangements to emcee to food to music, etc all services were handled voluntarily by the wonderful members of IALI Executive Council and the Volunteers. Attendees enjoyed the refreshing hot tea, snacks & exotic Indian Dinner served by Curry Club which was sponsored by the incoming Executive Council of 2016.

The entire event was covered by various prominent media -newspapers and TV Channels. Incoming officers of 2016 thanked various community leaders, media, sponsors and supporters of IALI India center, IALI 2016 Team, Supporters, Volunteers and everyone for their tireless dedication to the betterment of the organization.

The event promoted and encouraged participation of new members through their website www.ialinewyork.org. India Association of Long Island is the oldest and the largest, non-profit, non-political & non-religious, 37 years old community based organization with over 1700 members. Throughout the year, IALI organization conducts various multi-cultural events like Valentine’s Day, Holi (Festival of Colors), Vaishakhi, Family Picnic, Annual Dinner, India Fest (showcasing the Indian heritage, values & the diverse cultures & festivals of Indian subcontinent to the larger community of Long Island), Diwali (Festival of Lights), Food Drive on Thanksgivings etc. Additionally, the organization conducts many monthly activities, educational & networking forums for the benefits of the kids and youngsters, adults, seniors men & women, including professionals and businessmen.