Dear Balasinorians.

It has been 25 years since the inception of the Balasinor Association of America. It has been a privilege to serve as President of the Association for many of these 25 years. I have appreciated your complete trust in me and your love and support throughout this tenure. Our Association has flourished gradually into a pillar of unity and brotherhood among Balasinorians, and has accomplished many goals throughout its existence.

The Association was born in 1973 out of a worthy cause: to help the poor and hungry in Balasinor during famine. Since then, the Association has supported many good causes. Just recently, we donated Rs.80,000 towards the hospital, college, and public park of Balasinor. By the grace of God, we are in a position to help those less fortunate in our motherland, and it is very rewarding to be able to channel your donations to them through the Association. I hope we continue this tradition of remembering our Balasinor in times of need.

During the past quarter century, we have gotten together at least twice each year. Picnics and Diwali Dinners have been great opportunities to bring families and friends together and to introduce visitors from our motherland.

Four years ago, we began awarding college scholarships to encourage the advancement of the younger generations. With the benevolent efforts of many, we have accumulated %18,000 towards this fund, and the amount is still growing. I am sure this sends the right message to our young students, that their efforts and accomplishments merit reward, and eventually, through their involvement I see a bright future for our Association.

For many years our Association has been an active member of the Federation of Indian Associations. We are also in the process of formalizing the Association, and efforts of making it an official non-profit organization are underway.

I am thankful to all of you for giving me the very satisfying experience of serving our community for such an extensive period. Twenty-five years, however, is a long time for one person to oversee the Association. It is time for me to relinquish the office of Presidency to the new generation. We have many capable, willing volunteers, and I am confident that with their dedication and new ideas, the Association will continue to grow.

I wish the new Board the best of luck and am confident they will represent Balasinor well. I look forward to watching the Association continue to grow. Once again, thank you for a rewarding andjoyful experience.

With best regards,
Shashikant Dharia