The Indian Medical Association of New England (IMANE) hosted a very successful 31st Annual Meeting at the Newton Marriott on Saturday, Nov. 21, 2009.The honored guest was His Excellency Deval L. Patrick, Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, who was welcomed by Dr. Nasir Khan, the President of IMANE, on behalf of the organization.

The Governor spoke about his desire to implement long-range goals, which will benefit Massachusetts and its citizens. He also enumerated several successful initiatives that are now playing dividends. His speech was enthusiastically received by IMANE members and their families, as was an opportunity for people to pose with him for photographs.

Gov. Patrick thanked Dr. Khan and his wife State Representative Kay Khan, who were his earliest supporters. In fact, they hosted a fundraiser for him in early 2006 at their home in Newton. Dr. Khan, on behalf of IMANE, presented the Governor with a book on India and a plaque, which recognized him “for his leadership, vision and passion, and his commitment to provide health care for all citizens of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.”

Dr. Khan also provided a plaque to Dr. Sadhev Passey of Worcester, for his completion of five years on the Board of Trustees of IMANE, with the last year spent serving as its Chairman.  Subsequently, Dr. Khan awarded the 2009 IMANE Community Service Award to Dr. Onaly Kapasi, a Newton orthopedic surgeon, for his many years of compassionate and dedicated services at the New Hope Center, Waltham, and his many contributions to medical education and health care in both the U.S. and India.    

Finally, the incoming President, Dr. Geeta Trivedi of Medford, thanked Dr. Khan for his leadership and support of IMANE over the past year, and presented him with a plaque recognizing his commitment and accomplishments.

In addition to honoring these achievements, the attendees had a chance to enjoy a delicious dinner provided by the Bombay Club/Masala Art, as well as to listen to music provided by DJ Yogz and watch a performance by the energetic Bhangra team of dancers, which included two men and four women dancers who were a real hit.

Overall, the meeting was a true success and a perfect way to wrap up a highly successful year.

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