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PLEASE VOTE
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PLEASE VOTE
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PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
Jack Slattery
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Over 25 India RPCVs participated in the 2004 National
Peace Corps Association (NPCA) Conference held in Chicago from 5-8 August. It
was a stirring event, often political, provoking serious consideration of
today's major issues, including Iraq, and pointing out the clear need to vote
in this presidential election, no matter what our political persuasions may be.
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Our Own RPCV Chuck Sheftel (69-72) was the NPCA
Conference Vice Chair and the organizer of the specific Friends of India
activities. Chuck, many thanks for a job well done! Speakers included Gaddi
Vasquez, Peace Corps Director, Chris Matthews, MSNBC Hardball Anchor and
Swaziland RPCV, and Hedayat Amin-Arsala, Vice President of Afghanistan (whose
wife Betsy is an RPCV). Mr. Amin-Arsala's comments highlighted the essence of
what Peace Corps still has to offer in today's world. He stated that in terms
of economic assistance Afghanistan was in good shape. However, it lacks the
capacity to absorb this assistance as its social and economic structure is in
disarray after so many years of war. He made an appeal for PCVs of all ages to
come to Afghanistan. He emphasized the need for individuals with experience
(such as found in retired individuals, "Baby Boomer" RPCVs, and those who want
a break from their career) to work side-by-side with Afghans to help solve
Afghan problems and rebuild Afghanistan's social and economic institutions.
Here is the full text of his speech.
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Friends of India activities included an Indian Buffet with RPCVs
from Nepal, Fiji and Pacific Islands, a very upbeat India up-date by the Indian
Consul General of Chicago, Arun Kumar, a short business meeting, and participation in the Flag Procession. Photos
are on the website.
Here is the full text of his update (right click to 'Save Target As', 'Save As' or double click to open
in the browser):
IndConGenp1.pdf
IndConGenp2.pdf
IndConGenp3.pdf
IndConGenp4.pdf
IndConGenp5.pdf
IndConGenp6.pdf
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If you have any comments about the website or would like to post something on
the website, please email a request to JackSlattery@FOIndia.org
or call us. Shortly we will add a "Members Center" to the website where you
can: (1) register to make private and secure contact with others who have
registered and (2) make secure online membership payments. This will not
replace but complement "the check in the mail" system. Details will be on the
website. Many thanks for all your comments about the website to date.
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Namascara,
Jack
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