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27 Jan 2005
On December 26, 2004...
10 Jul 2004
Entering Digital Age...
 29 Oct 2004  Archive

PLEASE VOTE

PLEASE VOTE

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
Jack Slattery

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.

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.

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

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.
Namascara,
Jack

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