www.gnfa.org

Mark Your Calendar

Aug 27: Jaap Sahib Paath Recital

Sept 16: Gurgaddi Guru Arjan Dev Ji

Gurgaddi Guru Ramdas Ji

Jyotijot Guru Ramdas ji

Jyotijot Guru Amardas Ji

Sept 17: Sikh Affairs Seminar

Sept 22: Jyotijot Guru Nanak Dev Ji

Inside this issue:

Issue 7 August 2011 Y O U R C O N N E C T I O N T O G N F A

Sandesa sMdysw

From Outgoing Chair 2

From Incoming Chair 3

Financial Statement 4

GNFA Committees 7

Anmol Dastar 8

Vaisakhi Poem 9

Khalsa Sirjana 10

Amritdhari Youth 16

Film Review 19

GNFA Cultural Program 20

Khalsa School Diary 22

Sikhs at White House 24

A Success Story 25

Operation Walk MD 30

Book Review 32

Public Speaking Shines 34

In Memoriam 35

Guru Nanak Foundation of America

Vaisakhi celebrations at GNFA

www.gnfa.org

From the desk of the Outgoing Chairman

2

Sandesa sMdysw

Waheguru Ji ka khalsa, Waheguru Ji ki fateh.

In April 2010, this management, which consisted of Kunwar Goomer, Avtar Singh, Dr. Arvinder Uppal, Kamlesh S. Sardana and I, were given the seva to make sure the needs of the sadh sangat were met. As a team we took an oath to uphold the trust that the sadh sangat had put in us.

In the first chairman‟s message in Sandesa, we outlined some goals for the upcoming year. These goals were: Expansion of the existing kitchen Issuance of Bonds Increasing revenue Kirtan diwan, Langar seva, and seminars organized by the GNFA youth, once every two months. Organizing programs of different committees, langar and kirtan at the gurdwara into a combined calendar, which will be accessible on the GNFA website for everyone to see. Approval of the new By-laws by the general body of GNFA. Begin construction of the new building, upon approval of the building permits.

Not all goals were accomplished as we had hoped. However, with the grace of Waheguru and the support of the sadh san-

gat, we were able to accomplish quite a lot.

For starters, the kitchen has been expanded and remodled with the new hood and the burners. With the support of the sadh

sangat we were able to raise $30,000 for the kitchen.

The revenue has increased this year and as you will see in the audit report, our net profit this year was almost $70,000. We

streamlined the accounting procedures and policies as well as reduced our expenses by prioritizing our activities.

The youth -- what can I say about them! I witnessed firsthand the enthusiasm our youngsters have shown in doing kirtan, seva

and seminars. If given the opportunity, they will surpass all our expectations. In the youth kirtan sammelan this year, over 150

children of all ages participated. The youth handled the complete diwan from doing langar seva to kirtan to ardas in a well-

attended rehnsabai. They conducted a seminar especially aimed at the teenagers who stopped coming to gurdwara; men-

tored small children with the help of the Khalsa School and so forth. Hopefully you all had the opportunity to witness these

wonderful activities in our gurdwara.

The new website is more dynamic and more user-friendly than ever before. It will have a place for everyone to make com-ments, complaints and recommendations under the chairman‟s blog as well as under the secretary‟s blog. This year we saw more sangat use the website than ever before. The number of unique visitors to the GNFA website (gnfa.org) increased by more than 30% in one year alone. This is incredible! Thanks to all the members of the website committee for their hard work and dedication.

The new by-laws were passed by the general body at the meeting held on March 6, 2011. This is the culmination of a ten-year process and is a major achievement. The team of the by-laws committee worked very hard to complete this monumental task. Sadh sangat ji, this would not have happened without your support and the grace of the Almighty.

Now on to the new gurdwara building. The capital Project Committee has been working diligently to obtain the various per-mits. With Waheguru‟s grace we should have the necessary permits to start construction in the Spring of 2012. Let us be opti-mistic, forward looking and donate generously.

Lastly, but not least is the Bond issue. The bond committee has gathered all the necessary information and is currently submit-ting the necessary documents to the various governments, namely, DC, MD and VA. As part of the submissions, the 2010 audit report needs to be handed in as well. As I mentioned before, this report has been issued by our auditors and I am happy to say we received a clean report.

To conclude, while this management has not accomplished everything we had hoped for, we did see improvements in various aspects of the gurdwara. There has been peace in the gurdwara; there was a noticeable increase in the sadh sangat; there was more youth participation than ever before, and more importantly, the cooperation between the sadh sangat, the board, and the various committees has made this year one of the more memorable in recent memory. Waheguru Ji ka khalsa, Waheguru Ji ki fateh.

Parminder (Sonny) Singh Ahuja

www.gnfa.org

From the desk of the Incoming Chairman

Dear sadh sangat ji,

Waheguru Ji ka khalsa, Waheguru Ji ki fateh.

Another year, another election, and a new management committee. But the same principles, same focus and same goals.

I would like to thank each one of the sadh sangat for giving me a chance to do seva. I feel honored and privileged to be

a part of this great institution that has been like a second home to my family and me for almost 20 years. I take great

pride in our sangat‟s continued and consistent efforts to run excellent programs for our youth.

The management committee this year includes Prabhjot Singh Kohli, Amar Raj Singh, Dr. Arvinder Uppal, Surpal Singh

Birgi, Avtar Singh and me. We are revved up to continue to expand on work being done in GNFA in collaboration with

the various committees. Our focus will be on the issuance of bonds to pay off the current mortgage, implementation of the

new by-laws, encouraging our youth to continue to actively participate in GNFA activities, and much more.

We have challenging times ahead of us. But with the support of each and every one of you, I am confident that we can

achieve our goals and continue to make GNFA proud. It is imperative that we keep our focus and enthusiasm to continue

to build on our existing programs and challenge ourselves to strive to achieve more.

Waheguru Ji ka khalsa, Waheguru Ji ki fateh.

Kunwar Singh Goomer

Chairman, GNFA

3

Sandesa is published quarterly by

Guru Nanak Foundation of America,12917 Old Columbia Pike Road, Silver Spring, MD 20904 e-mail : newsgnfa@gmail.com

Sandesa Staff 2010-2011:

Arvinder Kaur, Harsharan Kaur, Sarabjeet K Bhutani, Manmeet Singh, Ravneet Singh, Sameena Kaur, Atam Parkash Singh

Issue 7 August 2011

Support your Gurdwara

The Capital Project Committee is proceeding full steam ahead to complete the Gurdwara Sahib‟s

design by December 2011 and start construction by spring of 2012. The Chairman and the

Gurdwara Committee are in daily contact with the Capital Project Committee and the progress is

being intimated to all members of the Board of Trustees and the sangat during the regular di-

wans. After a long struggle, we have been able to obtain the NRI permit, which is the first requi-

site. It is for all of us now to support their efforts and keep them moving at a fast pace. The Capi-

tal Project Committee‟s next phase will be to submit the Forest Development Plan by 15 August

2011. After approval of the Forest Development Plan, they will submit the Civil Plan and then

permit drawing for construction approval. Total cost to pay off the land loan and to design and

construct the Gurdwara Sahib is projected to be $5 million.

Fundraising goal: Raise $1.2 million by Diwali to pay off the land

loan.

Sadh Sangat is requested to donate generously to this worthy cause.

www.gnfa.org

Sandesa sMdysw

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January through June 2011

www.gnfa.org

Issue 7 August 2011

5

January through June 2011

www.gnfa.org 6

Sandesa sMdysw

www.gnfa.org 7

Issue 7 August 2011

GNFA Election 2011 Results

In the election held on March 6, the following members were unanimously approved:

Contributing Trustees ( 5-year term)

Avtar Singh Barring, Surpal Singh Birgi, Harsharan Kaur, Arvinder K. Uppal

Elected Trustees (one-year term)

Prabhleen K. Aneja (youth trustee), Anthony Arneja, Kunwar S. Goomer, Prabhjot S. Kohli, Amar Raj Singh,

Parvinder (Sheena) K. Khurana

Committees

Gurdwara Youth Finance Membership Education

Kunwar S. Goomer, Chairman Prabhleen K. Aneja Darshan S. Saluja Pritam S. Saini Gajinder Singh

Surpal S. Birgi, Vice Chairman Tanmit Singh Amar Raj Singh Charanjit S Aulakh Satwant K Tulsi

Prabhjot S. Kohli, Stage Secretary Ravinder Arneja Anthony Arneja Sheena Khurana

Arvinder K.Uppal, Recording Secy. Arvinder K Uppal

Amar Raj Singh, Treasurer Prabhleen Aneja

Anthony Arneja, Asst. Treasurer

Avtar Singh, PRO

Community Affairs Langar By Laws Capital Projects Dharmik

Avtar Singh Pammy Sawhney Rajinder S. Sidhu Daljit S. Sawhney Harpreet Kaur

Bobby Bahra Maninder Sethi Tejbir S. Phool Inderjit Bimbra Jatinder Dusaj

Kamaljeet Kaur Gurmukh S. Matta Ajit S. Dhaliwal Tajinder Uppal Harjeet Singh

Ravinder Gill Hardeep Singh Arvinder K Goomer Bhupinder S. Gabri, Architect Sukhbir S. Bawa

Gurdeep Kaur (Nikee) Kalvinder Singh Dharam S. Dhindsa Surinder Singh PE Prabhkirat Singh

Neeta Singh I. S. Gujral Dilawar S. Dhatt Bhupinder S. Katohora Eng. Sarabjit Kaur

Rippi Kohli Manjot S. Aneja Harnam S. Arneja Kanwaljit S. Soni Anup Kaur

Ravinder K. Birgi Manjit Kuller Pritam S. Saini Gurvinder S. Walia Amrita Cheema

Gurcharan Singh Sandeep Singh Raghbir S. Chhinna

Tajinder Ahluwalia (Ginny) Ashok Gulati Karam S. Dhillon Professional Advisors

Manpreet Singh Surinder Singh Surinder Singh PE

G. S. Gahunia PE

Facilities Maintenance Sikh Affairs Newsletter Website Discipline

Kamlesh Sardana Gurbaksh Singh Dhillon Atam Parkash Singh Paramvir S. Soni Jaswinder S. Sidhu

Gurbinder S. Bahra Kulwant S. Modi Arvinder K. Goomer Gajindar Singh Darshan S. Saluja

Inderjit S. Bimbra Phula Singh Ravneet Chadha Prabhkirat Singh Pritam S. Saini

Baljit S. Chadha Bishan S. Nagi Sameena Kaur Sukhwinder Singh Karnail K. Deu

Manjit S. Chowdhary Ajaib S. Sidhu Harsharan Kaur Ranvir S. Fluora Charanjit S. Aulakh

Gurminder S. Ahuja (Monty) Himmat S Chadha Sarabjeet S. Bhutani Mandeep Sawhney

Bobby Bahra

Kamaljit Singh

Bond

Harnam S. Arneja Tejbir S. Phool Parminder S. Ahuja (Coordinators in Bold)

www.gnfa.org

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Anmol dsqwr

www.gnfa.org 9

www.gnfa.org 10

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www.gnfa.org

“crn clau mwrg goibMd”

dunIAW dy ieqhws nUM AwrMB kwl qoN AnykW mhW purKW, pYgMbrW, AvqwrW, socvwnW, qwjdwrW, mudbrW Aqy

isAwsqdwnW ny iSMgwirAw hY, sMswr dIAW hnyrIAW rwhW nUM Awpxy ivcwrW qy kurbwnIAW nwl ruSnwieAw hY

1 pr sRI gurU goibMd isMG mwhWrwj dI mhWn pRkwSmeI SKsIAq dI mwnvqw dy ieiqhws ivc Cwp vKrI,

pRiqBw inrwlI, Swn AlOikk Aqy mihmw AgwD boD qy Apwr hY 1

Aj` q`k dy ieiqhws ivc ikqy vI AYsI imswl nhI imldI, ijvyN dsvyN pwqSwh vWg mnuKqw dy kilAwx qy ivkws leI, zulm, AinAwey Aqy ktVvwdI iPrkU SihnSwhIAq dy iKlwP DrmXud kridAW Awpxw swrw srbMns vwirAw hYvy 1 mhWn AdrSW dI pUrqI leI eynIAW kurbWnIAW kIqIAW hox qy iPr muKwribMd cON eyhI inkly,

“ ienHIN kI ikrpw sy swJy hm hYN

nhIN mosy grIb kroV pry”

Awp ny mnuK mwqr swhmxy ieh mhWn AwdrS riKAw,

“ XwhI kwj Drw hm jnmM, smJ lyhu swDU sb mnmM

Drm clwvn sMq aubwrn, dust sBn ko mUl aupwrn”

SRI gurU goibMd isMG jI dw jhwd qW scweI, ienswP, purspr muhbq Aqy mnuKI eykqw leI sI, aUc nIc,

zwq pwq dy ivqkry imtwx leI sI, auhnW lokW nUM gly lwaux leI sI, ijnW nUM jrvwixAW Aqy zwq

AiBmwnIAW Aqy rwj hMkwrIAW ny jugW qoN mDoilAw Aqy driVAw sI 1

klgIDr mhwrwj dIAW nzrW ivc “ mwns kI jwq” ieko sI 1 msIqW Aqy mMdr r`b dy ieko jhy AsQwn sn 1 Awp dy AwdrSW muqwibk Kudw pRsq hoxw auqm iKAwl hY, lyikn iPrkwpRsq hoxw inhwieq pwp hY 1 gurU jI dy AsUlW nUM mMnx vwlw, inmwixAW nUM mwx, inqwixAW nUM qwx, inEitAW nUM Et Aqy inAwsirAW nUM Awsrw pRdWn krygw 1

gurU jI sB qoN pihly prm mnuK hoey h`n ijnW ny nw kyvl FiTAW nUM gl nwl lwieAw sgoN vMgwr ky ikhw ik swrI SkqI dw somw lok hn 1 Awp dI ikrpwn AwkrmxkwrI nhI sI, sgoN AwKrI hIlw sI, zulm dy iKlwP 1

Awp ny ptny (ibhwr) ivKy Avqwr DwirAw Aqy nMdyV (mhWrwStr) ivKy joqI joq smwey 1 ieauN Bwrq dI DrqI dw cpw cpw Awp dy crnkmlW dI Coh nwl ivrosieAw hoieAw hY 1

1699 ivc Kwlsw swj ky Awp ny swry Bwrq nUN iek bOhmulw qoPw bKiSAw, ijs ny sdIAW qoN Bwrq dI Awx mwx qy AwbrU bcweI Aqy jrvwixAW nUM sdw leI mwr mukwieAw 1 ieh ShIdW qy sUrbIrW dw pMQ hY, ijnWdIAW vwrW lok rihMdI dunIAw qk gwauNdy rihxgy 1

pMQ dw syvk,

gurbKS isMG iFloN

13

www.gnfa.org

What does Vaisakhi mean to you?

by Anmol Kaur

There are 25 million Sikhs in the world and about 250,000 live in America. Vaisakhi is one of the most im-portant Sikh holidays as the Khalsa was born on that day. Vaisakhi falls on the first day of Baisakh. On that day in 1699 Guru Gobind Singh Ji gave amrit to five men and they became the Panj Pyare. The ceremony is called Pahul or amrit chakna (it is the initiation ceremony into the Khalsa Panth). After a Sikh is baptized they have to follow the rule of the 5 K‟s. The five K‟s are no cutting kesh, wearing a kara, kachera, kanga, and kirpan all the time. Sikhs are also prohibited from taking drugs or drinking alcohol. Sikhs take out processions or nagar kirtan under the leadership of the Panj Pyare. Gatka and shabad kirtan are the highlights of the procession. The processions end at the gurdwara where ardaas is done, parshad is distributed, and langar is

served.

The farmers celebrate Vaisakhi as thanksgiving as the crop is harvested on that day. Vaisakhi is one of the most colorful events in the Sikh calendar. Sikhs culturally celebrate it by doing gidda and bhangra. Histori-

cally, it is a very joyous occasion and a time for celebration.

To me Vaisakhi is an important event that shaped the history of Sikhism. It is a time in which we should cele-brate and be thankful. The Panj Pyare helped create the Khalsa because they showed that they were willing to give up their lives for the Guru or Sikhism. The Panj Pyare proved that they were proud to be Sikhs. I also

am proud to be a Sikh!

Here are thoughts of some of the children of GNFA Khalsa school about what Vaisakhi means to them.

Jaskiran Kaur, 12: When five Sikhs drank amrit and became the Panj Pyare by Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Amrita Kaur, 12: It is an important day in Sikh history because it symbolizes a moment when all Sikhs united to

become Singhs and Kaurs of the Guru.

Ansh Singh 7: When Guru Gobind Singh Ji asked for five heads and took the men who volunteered their heads inside a tent and when he came out his sword was bloody. Guru Ji gave them amrit and the five K‟s --

kara, kangha, kachha, kes, kirpan. Then Guru Ji told them to make him a Khalsa by giving him amrit.

Baneet Kaur 12: That‟s when we thank Guru Ji for making the Khalsa.

Japsimran Kaur 15: The birth of the Khalsa.

Himmat Singh 8: Guru Gobind Singh Ji asked for five heads and people kept on running away. Then five Sikhs came out and their names were Bhai Daya Singh, Bhai Dharam Singh, Bhai Himmat Singh, Bhai Mohkam

Singh and Bhai Sahib Singh. Vaisakhi shaped the course of Sikh history.

Amrita Kaur 10: When the Khalsa was born and the Panj Pyare were created. And Guru Gobind Singh Ji

created the Sikh way of life and the identity of Sikhism.

Kiranjyot Kaur 15: The day Khalsa was created and the day Guru Gobind Singh Ji created the uniform of

the Sikhs. It is usually a harvest day in Punjab.

We at GNFA along with all the Sikhs of the world celebrate Vaisakhi with a lot of enthusiasm and renew our

pledge to the Khalsa Panth started by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, to follow the right path of humanity and love

for all beings.

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Sandesa sMdysw

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Issue 7 August 2011

15

Maryland Governor

Martin O‟Malley

Hosts Vaisakhi Reception

www.gnfa.org 16

www.gnfa.org Compiled by Sameena Kaur and Ravneet Singh 17

www.gnfa.org 18

On the evening of Saturday, December 25, 2010, while people across the United States were enjoying the festivi-ties of the holiday season, members of our local Sikh community came together to remember those young souls who gave their lives in the name of justice and freedom: the Char Sahibzadey. The diwan, which was conducted almost entirely by the youth, consisted not only of keertan but also of poems and speeches on various topics related to Sikhi. To me, this diwan is always special. It‟s not just mindlessly coming to the gurdwara to see your friends and eat lan-gar, and maybe even listen to some keertan. Rather, it‟s more like a process of comprehending and understanding a) the diwan by actively participating in it, and b) the content of the speeches, poems, and shabads, as they are applicable to the occasion and our lives. Moreover, it‟s important that we don‟t just remember the Sahibzadey for one day in a year, but try to truly understand their spirits, and better ourselves by trying to find the courage, the conviction, and the valor that they embodied, and that exists within each one of us. This year‟s diwan had more participants than last year‟s. I think it‟s awesome that we, as kids, are getting the op-portunity to talk in front of people and express our thoughts. This is instrumental not only in exploring one‟s history, but also in delving into and organizing one‟s sometimes muddled and obscure thoughts into coherent ideas. The ulti-mate success in the application of what we learn from these experiences, in my opinion, manifests when we take the passion, interest, and intellect that permeate the voices of our youth and employ them outside the gurdwara, outside

our Sikh community, in society, in which we are not always with other Sikhs. We‟re very fortunate that we have so many aunties and uncles who are con-stantly encouraging us to participate in such events. Hopefully, the youth will be given the opportunity to organize this diwan again this year, and we can continue to explore the depths of our

history, our culture, and ourselves.

Rehnsabai Commemorates Martyrdom of Char Sahibzadey By Ramneek Kaur

Sandesa sMdysw

www.gnfa.org

Chhevan Dariya (The Sixth River)

Film review by Prabhleen Kaur Aneja

As of 2008 a police state report shows that nearly 70%

of Punjab‟s youth is in the grip of drugs that are being

smuggled. Punjab, the land of 5 rivers, the land where

our Gurus spread Sikhi, laid down our religion,

preached it and followed it, is now being controlled by

drugs. The youth that is supposed to be most integral

part of growth in any part of the world is killing Punjab.

Ish Amitoj Kaur (director) shows in the movie Chhevan

Dariyan, how drug abuse, made worse by the stance of

the Indian government, is a major issue in Punjab, how

drug abuse demolishes relationships, even some of the

strongest ones.

But what is “The Sixth River”? “Punjab, the land of 5

rivers is our roots, our history, our heritage and the sixth

river is how we stay connected to those roots.”

~Nimarta Kaur. Everyone has a different view on what

the sixth river is because every person whether they are

young or old has a different thinking in connecting to

those roots. "The sixth river is how we contribute to solve

the problems of the land of 5 rivers, full of alcohol,

drugs, and corruption"~Hargeet Kaur

This movie starts out with Fateh(from USA), Dev, Carol,

and Reet reuniting at a marriage after many years. Dev

gets caught up in politics and starts wanting to own a

distillery (liquor shop). What he doesn't know is his part-

ners would sell illegal drugs under the counter like other

distilleries around Punjab. Carol tries to stop Dev by

making him realize what will happen if he builds this

distillery. Meanwhile Fateh starts wondering why one

of his old friends is in a rehab center dying, and finds

out that it is because of drug addiction. Fateh sees that

drug addiction is spreading around Punjab. Punjab is

getting corrupt day by day but nobody is stopping it. They start wondering, what will Punjab be in the future if this cor-

ruption is not stopped?

This story talks about one distillery opening but whose fault is it actually? In 2008-2009, over 5.2 lakh bottles of liquor

and 1.5 lakh bottles of beer were consumed in the state every day. Why would the government be allowing this? Many

adults have started to think. "India has tried many ways to destroy Sikhi, including 1984 genocide, raping women, killing

children, shooting men but Sikhi is still there, keeping its hold. The government‟s new way to kill Sikhi is taking the youth

away from their roots, from their morals, from their religion by offering those drugs and alcohol. But how would this ma-

jor problem end? Many people may think that Sikhs living in America cannot do anything, but if we continue with that

mindset, Punjab will never grow and will continue to fall. We all need to get together and save the land of our Gurus.

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Issue 7 August 2011

www.gnfa.org

GNFA Cultural Program A Resounding Success

GNFA held its Annual Cultural Program on Saturday, March 19, 2011 at High Point High School, with over 800 in atten-

dance including over 160 performers. The show highlighted local talent, as young as 4 years old, and international per-

former Bikram Singh. There were 24 performances which included local singers, performers from Sikh Sangat of Virginia,

University of Maryland, DC Metro Performing Arts Academy Bhangra Team, and our very own Ricky Jatt and the Lalkarre

Sheran De Bhangra. This year's Cultural Program was dedicated to our community's youth.

The show began at 4:30 pm and ended around 9:15 pm. It started off with a majority of the young performers singing

Deh Shiva Bar Mohe Ehey. Kudos to the team of MC's that did a wonderful job interacting and entertaining the audience

throughout the evening. The first half of the program was centered around performers ranging from 4 - 12 years of

age. They included 6-year-old Gurdas Singh Kakar and 15-year-old Jaspreet Kaur Mudhar, who both played amazing

Dhol. Each performance had its very own personality and each performer perfomed with so much energy, the audience

could feel their enthusiasm and confident resonate throughout the auditorium. Mr. Balwant Singh entertained the audience

throughout the show with his comedic routine, while Mrs. Baljeet Kaur Ahuja sang beautiful Punjabi songs. The first half of

the show ended with a beautiful, inspirational, and a very spiritual gatka performance.

During intermission, a variety of delicious food was served. Most of the delectable fare was generously donated by top

area restaurants and several gurdwara families. The lines stretched far in and around the auditorium, and people were

served by wonderful sevadars.

The second half of the program proved to be even more exciting and energetic than the first half. Most of the performers

ranged from 13 years of age and up. Ricky Jatt and his Lalkarre Sheran De Bhangra entertained with live geets and

dhol. UMD concluded the youth performances for the show with incredible Bhangra moves! The cultural program ended

with a live performance by Bikram Singh and all the participants dancing to his songs on stage.

The show would not have been successful without the countless volunteers and sevadars who helped the show run smoothly.

Thanks to our coordinators, Avtar Singh Barring, Bobby Singh Bahra, and Neeta Kaur. GNFA's Cultural Committee came

together with the Board of Trustees, and worked with astounding zeal and unity to make the 2011 GNFA Cultural Program

one for the history books! Looking forward to see what our amazingly talented sadh sangat will do at next year's cultural

program!

-Article by Amarjeet k. Bahra and Neeta Singh

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Sandesa sMdysw

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Issue 7 August 2011

www.gnfa.org

Khalsa School Diary

Khalsa School Celebrates Sikh Environmental Day

March 13th was not quite a spring day; however, you could feel spring in the air. On that day, more

than 100 bubbly Khalsa School kids, ages 4 through 15, lined up in GNFA open grounds to plant

trees. This day was designated by the global Sikh community as „Sikh Environmental Day‟. This day

marks the New Year in the Sikh calendar and the Gurgaddi Diwas of Guru Har Rai ji, who is remem-

bered in Sikh history for his deep sensitivity to nature and its preservation. Historical documents nar-

rate Guru Har Rai ji‟s affection for all forms of life as well as the animal sanctuary that he maintained

at Kiratpur Sahib.

In planting the trees, there was a great enthusiasm amongst older kids and parents who helped

younger ones to plant the trees. It was a team spirit of “Little Khalsa and Big Khalsa”. All in all they

planted 12 red and white dogwood flowering trees, each named after one of the ten gurus, Guru

Granth Sahib ji and one for Khalsa Panth. Some kids made posters, depicting „How can I protect the

environment‟, including, conservation, recycling/reusing, no littering, reducing energy and using less

water. Kindergartners had the extra treat of planting vegetable seeds in small pots to grow at home.

Realizing, that the environments is critical for the well being of human life, these kinds of programs are

more appropriate for the budding youth, who have a long-term relation with the environment.

The party ended with eating pizza (served in paper plates, not in styrofoam). It was a great day for

parents and kids to sit together and chat, thus creating a feeling of camaraderie and Sikhi spirit. The

function was made possible by the collective efforts of a lot of volunteers and with overall support of

GNFA management.

Sandesa sMdysw

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www.gnfa.org

Sikh Families Invited to White House Egg Roll

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A Success Story

What does it take to rise through the ranks from research assistant to the top eche-

lons of a multi-million dollar firm? Hard work, sincerity, following through, and disci-

pline, according to Dr. Lakhbir Singh, president and chief operating officer at Na-

than Associates, an international economic consulting firm based in Arlington, Vir-

ginia.

Lakhbir Singh came to the United States in 1974, armed with a B.A. and M.A. in

Economics from Delhi University. Unable to find work in his field, he started working

at Dart Drug, a pharmacy chain. He decided to further his education in economics

and started working on his master‟s and doctorate at Howard University. He caught

the attention of a professor as he was always asking questions, eager to learn be-

yond what was being taught. Recognizing that his potential lay way beyond work-

ing at a drug chain, the professor helped him get a summer research assistantship at Nathan Associates in 1976.

From there, began Lakhbir Singh‟s meteoric rise at the firm. He also obtained his doctorate in 1986.

Dr. Singh specializes in the development and assessment of damages models for commercial and antitrust litigation in

industries such as finance and insurance, commercial real estate, airline transportation, and oil and gas production

and distribution. He stresses the importance of accuracy, integrity and double-checking numbers. He says “the people

who make good judgments win. The people who make bad judgments lose.”

He gave the following thoughtful responses to questions related to Sikhi:

What impact has wearing a turban and keeping a beard had on your career? I honestly believe that wearing my

turban and keeping my beard have been essential to my success. To this day people are able to recognize me and

my turban before the CEO of the company I work for. When I have done something good for my company, every-

one remembers Dr. Singh with a turban did that, and when I have done something not so great, everyone also re-

members Dr. Singh with a turban did that. For this reason, I have always tried to work as hard as I can to be the

best I can be because it truly does reflect on my community and myself. Every action good or bad reflects on the

person committing those actions, but every action taken by a person who wears a turban and keeps a beard reflects

not only on themselves but on all those other people wearing turbans and keeping beards. Wearing a turban and

keeping a beard sheds a brighter light on one's personal actions and can have the effect of magnifying and com-

pounding them when there is some momentum one way or the other. Therefore, I strongly encourage my kids to be

the best at what they do so it can help our community shine and I hope the rest of the Sikhs continue to do the same.

What advice do you have for Sikh youth interested in a career in economic consulting? Although economics has

never been listed in the top 5 paying degrees by major news outlets it can help shape the way you think and live

your life. Economics is the social science that analyzes the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and

services. Economics not only has implications to the world on a macro basis, or corporations and industries on a micro

basis, but in particular an individual's life as well. I recommend that any youth pursing economics as a career also

use this knowledge to enrich their own lives and to carefully evaluate consumption decisions on a longer term basis.

Currently the United States is slowly climbing out of a deep recession that is primarily the result of people making

poor choices with their available credit, had society better understood economics this may have been avoided.

I also recommend that youth try to gain as much experience as possible early on by engaging in gainful employment

and/or internships. It is important for the youth not only to educate themselves but to gain experience in the work

world as early as possible as long as it does not interfere with studies. Finally I will say that focus and dedication

eventually are rewarded. Just because a job doesn't start where you would like it to, doesn't mean you have to

leave or look for a new job; it just means you may have to work harder to get to where you want to be. Take it

from a person who started off at the bottom of a company and climbed all the way to the top. Set goals, work hard

at them, practice Sikhi, and anything is possible.

25

Issue 7 August 2011

www.gnfa.org

Why Watersense

Water is vital to the survival of everything on the planet and is limited in supply. The Earth might seem like it has

abundant water, but in fact less than 1 percent is available for human use. The rest is either salt water found in

oceans, fresh water frozen in the polar ice caps, or too inaccessible for use. While the population and the demand

on freshwater resources are increasing, supply remains constant.

Managing water is a growing concern in the United States. Communities across the country are starting to face

challenges regarding water supply and water infrastructure. As the map below shows, many of the states that

have projected population growth increases also have higher per capita water use.

WaterSense will help protect the future of our nation's water supply by promoting water efficiency and enhancing

the market for water-efficient products, programs, and practices. The map below shows the domestic water use gal-

lons/day/person and projected percent population growth. As you see the water demand is going to rise in coming

decades due to population growth and water shortage is expected unless we start conserving water and using it

efficiently.

Sandesa sMdysw

26

www.gnfa.org

Issue 7 August 2011

27

What You Can Do

Use Your WaterSense!

By making just a few small changes to your daily routine, you can save water, save money and preserve water supplies for future generations. The WaterSense label makes it easy to find and select water efficient products and ensures con-sumer confidence in those products with a label backed by independent certification. These water efficient products pro-

vide the same performance and quality you've come to expect, but with the added benefit of water savings.

Along with using WaterSense labeled products, adopt the following water efficient practices to save money and protect

the environment:

Take the I‟m for Water Pledge Challenge: Simple steps around the house can add up to big savings.

Solution: Take the I‟m for Water Pledge on the WaterSense Facebook page! You can pledge to take three easy steps to save water: just check, twist, replace. Check for household leaks, twist and tighten fixtures and fittings, and replace

older products that no longer work properly with new, WaterSense labeled models.

Don't Flush Your Money Down the Drain! Challenge: If your toilet is from 1992 or earlier, you probably have an ineffi-cient model that uses at least 3.5 gallons per flush. Solution: New and improved WaterSense labeled models use less than 1.28 gallons per flush—that is at least 60 per-cent less than their older, less efficient counterparts. Compared to a 3.5 gallons per flush toilet, a WaterSense labeled

toilet could save a family of four more than $90 annually on their water bill, and $2,000 over the lifetime of the toilet.

Fix That Leak! Challenge: Leaky faucets that drip at the rate of one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water each year. Solution: If you're unsure whether you have a leak, read your water meter before and after a two-hour period when no

water is being used. If the meter does not read exactly the same, you probably have a leak.

Challenge: A leaky toilet can waste about 200 gallons of water every day. Solution: To tell if your toilet has a leak, place a drop of food coloring in the tank; if the color shows in the bowl without

flushing, you have a leak.

Make It a Full Load Challenge: The average washing machine uses about 41 gallons of water per load. Solution: High-efficiency washing machines use less than 28 gallons of water per load. To achieve even greater savings,

wash only full loads of laundry or use the appropriate load size selection on the washing machine.

Shower Power Challenge: A full bath tub requires about 70 gallons of water, while taking a five-minute shower uses 10 to 25 gallons.

Solution: If you take a bath, stopper the drain immediately and adjust the temperature as you fill the tub.

Turn It Off! Challenge: The average bathroom faucet flows at a rate of two gallons per minute. Solution: Turning off the tap while brushing your teeth in the morning and at bedtime can save up to 8 gallons of water

per day, which equals 240 gallons a month!

Water Wisely Challenge: The typical single-family suburban household uses at least 30 percent of their water outdoors for irrigation. Some experts estimate that more than 50 percent of landscape water use goes to waste due to evapora-tion or runoff caused by overwatering. Solution: Drip irrigation systems use between 20 to 50 percent less water than conventional in-ground sprinkler systems. They are also much more efficient than conventional sprinklers because no water is lost to wind, runoff, and evaporation. If your in-ground system uses 100,000 gallons annually, you could potentially save more than 200,000 gallons over the

lifetime of a drip irrigation should you choose to install it. That adds up to savings of at least $1,150!

This information is compiled by Gajindar Singh from EPA website.

For more info please go to http://epa.gov/watersense/

www.gnfa.org

Sandesa sMdysw

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GNFA Educational Seminar Focuses on “Sabh Sikhan Ko Hukam Hai, Guru Manyo Granth”

April 2, 2011

The first GNFA Sikh Educational Seminar of 2011 focused on the meaning and interpretations of the phrase, “Sabh Sik-

han Ko Hukam Hai, Guru Manyo Granth.”

Held on Saturday, April 2, at GNFA, the well-attended seminar began with Ardaas by Bhai Jagmohan Singh Ji, and

was moderated by S. Gurbakhash Singh Dhillon, Coordinator, Sikh Affairs Committee.

The first speaker, Sardarni Harpreet Kaur, a longtime GNFA member and educator by profession, spoke about the ori-

gin of the phrase, coined by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, explaining that all ten Gurus developed the same concept and firm

belief that there is only one God. This thought had originally been written by Guru Nanak Dav Ji in the first verses of

the “JapJi Sahib” prayer and extended by nine Gurus who followed. Ms. Kaur demonstrated her extensive knowledge

of Gurbani during her presentation.

Sardarni Kaur was followed by Navneet Kaur, a student who offered her interpretation of “Sabh Sikhan Ko Hukam Hai,

Guru Manyo Granth” from various aspects. She clearly mentioned that we bow our head in front of Shabad Guru,

which is eternal and further she explained that how, these days some corrupt and phony people exploit the holy Gu-

rubani and pretend to be Gurus themselves. Instead of becoming research minded to know the real meaning of Shabad

Guru, these days the human being is too often confused with superstitions, acording to Navneet Kaur.

The third and final speaker, Dr. Amarjit Singh, a renowned scholar and academic, as well as a frequent contributor to

the seminar series, offered a historical perspective of the phrase through Sikh history, and by giving some quotations

from Guru Granth Sahib ji, that the concept of Shabad Guru, starts from Guru Nanak Dev Ji, and that light has been

transferred from one Guru to another Guru and finally tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh ji, one day before leaving this

mortal world, transferred that eternal light to Guru Granth Sahib ji and openly declared to the Sikh Panth, that from

now on word, the Guru Granth Sahib Ji (Shabad Guru), is your Guru and not any other human being. Though from the

beginning, till now people have been misinterpreting the meaning of eternal Shabad for their personal gains, said Mr.

Singh.

“I was very pleased with the attendance and I hope that the community will continue to come out for the seminars and

continue to support the opportunity for an interactive and engaging dialogue with the many Sikh scholars among us,”

said Mr. Dhillon.

www.gnfa.org

29

www.gnfa.org 30

Sandesa sMdysw

Mending Lives - Operation Walk Maryland

Operation Walk Maryland (www.operationwalkMD.org) is a non-profit organization that serves the poor throughout the

world by providing them with free hip and knee replacements at absolutely no cost. While Operation Walk does some

work in the U.S., most of our efforts are concentrated in developing countries. We take a team of 40-50 healthcare pro-

viders and volunteers and perform surgeries, educate and train local doctors with state-of-the-art surgical procedures and

techniques.

The Maryland chapter of Operation Walk, established by Dr. Harpal Khanuja and Maria Khanuja, has been in existence

for the last four years. We have been successful in changing the lives of over one hundred and fifty deserving patients.

Operation Walk Maryland is run entirely by volunteers. Many of our volunteers are members of the sangat. They include

Rimmi Singh, Neeta Singh, Neetu Likhari, Nikee Singh, Jassi Ahuja and Mandeep Singh.

The reach of the organization extends beyond the patients to their families and their communities. In October of 2008, Op-

eration Walk Maryland served patients in Lima, Peru; in January of 2010 we cared for patients in Quito, Ecuador and this

year we took a mission to Punjab where we conducted 59 hip and knee replacement surgeries.

It has been our endeavor to take a mission to Punjab and help those in need of surgery. We managed to plan this trip

through the relationships within the management of Dayanand Medical College and Hospital in Ludhiana. We received

overwhelming support from our community in Maryland and also from our friends in India in order to make this mission suc-

cessful. After the final selection of patients was made, we performed surgeries on 49 patients and replaced 59 joints. This

latest trip has been the most successful and rewarding thus far. We look forward to going back to Punjab every other year

for one successful mission after another.

The key to the ultimate success of an endeavor of this nature is the generous financial support of our donors. We are all

truly blessed to have the skills and the opportunity to help the needy. We look forward to your support and generosity in

helping us “restore hope through motion... one joint at a time”.

Please visit www.operationwalkmd.org to donate.

Dr. Harpal Khanuja Maria Khanuja Prabhjot Likhari Gurminder Ahuja

Medical Director Director Chairman Treasurer

www.gnfa.org 31

Issue 7 August 2011

www.gnfa.org 32

Sandesa sMdysw

I've always been a history buff ... a Sikh history buff, that is!

I would take every opportunity I could to listen to a saakhi about

our rich history. But as a child growing up in the US, I rarely found

books that could truly reflect the wonder and beauty of the Gurus'

lives. The history books I read were published in the early 70's, and

although now I can appreciate what hard work it must have taken

to translate Sikh history for children into a foreign language - at

the time, I had no interest in reading these books. The stories were

hard to understand, the dialogue seemed unrealistic, and for what-

ever reason ... they didn't speak to me.

Inni Kaur's Journey with the Gurus is a series of short stories about

Guru Nanak's life, followed by discussion points where the author

suggests ideas and principles to emphasize while reading with your

child.

I've been blessed with an opportunity to preview Journey with the

Gurus along with my family, and I can say for all of us ... this is a

book that speaks to us!

It only took me a couple of stories for me to notice what was differ-

ent about this book. Although the major events in these short stories

have been told for centuries, the author however transports us to the time of the Guru, and lets us into the dialogue in

between these events, as though we were sitting as witnesses, watching history unfold.

For example, we all know the saakhi where young Nanak refused to wear the Hindu janeu - a string band worn di-

agonally by Brahmins from the shoulder down - but what was going through his mind that morning while family and

friends were gathering for the event to initiate him into the janeu?

We know the saakhi of Guru Nanak's disappearance for three days in the River Bein, but what were the locals think-

ing during those three days? How did Bebe Nanaki feel? Where did Bhai Mardana think his friend had gone?

And what was the mood like that early morning when Guru Sahib and Bhai Mardana left for their first udaasi (great

journey)?

Journey with the Gurus takes us there and let's us experience history.

These stories introduce me to personalities I had heard of but never fully appreciated - the chief of Talwandi, Rai

Bular; the Governor of Sultanpur, Nawab Daulat Khan Lodhi; and the close friendship Guru Nanak had with his

brother-in-law, Jairam.

But of all these relationships, it was the one with his older sister, Bebe Nanaki, that I connected with the most. I've al-

ways heard that Guru Sahib and Bebe Nanaki were very close and she was a supporting and loving sister. And as

per tradition, she is proudly known as the first Sikh of the Guru, but as much as she was an influence in his life, very

little is written about her.

Journey With The Gurus A Book Review by RUBIN PAUL SINGH

www.gnfa.org

Issue 7 August 2011

33

Journey with the Gurus does justice to this very special relationship by including her throughout the entire book. I especially en-

joyed the dialogue they shared shortly after Guru Sahib came to stay with Nanaki and Jairam in Sultanpur, reminiscing about

their childhood:

"Vir, do you remember the hopscotch game we always played?"

"Hopscotch game?" asked Jairam.

"Bhraa ji, you don't want to know all the things that she made me do. And to top it off, she always won at hopscotch," said

Nanak, laughing and shaking his head.

In another conversation, Nanaki expresses concern over Guru Sahib going to the river by himself early in the mornings. After

Jairam kindly suggests that Nanak should decide these things for himself, she replies:

"Yes, dearest, you are right. I sometimes forget that my little brother is all grown up now."

It was amazing to hear Guru Sahib and Bebe Nanaki interact in a way that a younger brother and protective older sister typi-

cally would ... something so many of us can relate to.

There were some other subtle messages I found quite powerful. Like when Lakhmi Das was born, Guru Nanak and Mata Sulak-

hani ji's second child, the author mentions how "Sulakhani's parents came as quickly as they could to see their new grandson."

And how Mehta Kalu ji speaks so gently about his daughter-in-law, referring to her as a "kind and loving wife", and Mata

Tripta ji chiming in: "I am so glad to see that Sulakhani is looking after her children very well."

I found the tone of these conversations refreshing and quite different from what I've read before or would have expected,

given the cultural norms of the time.

Some may feel that Inni Kaur has taken some creative liberty with these stories, and may ask, "How do we know this all really

happened?" To that, my response would be, "How do we know it did not?"

The major events in the stories have been retold in a creative way in modern language, but the facts as we traditionally know

them are still intact. As for all the dialogue in between, I wonder why wouldn't Guru Sahib and Bebe Nanaki converse like any

other brother and sister would? Why wouldn't Jairam facilitate Guru Sahib's move to Sultanpur to help his in-laws out, and re-

unite his wife with her brother? And why wouldn't Mehta Kalu ji and Mata Tripta ji admire their daughter-in-law for being a

good wife and mother?

I mean ... Guru Sahib was such a progressive thinker and way ahead of his time; he preached equality, kindness, compassion -

and influenced the masses by doing so - why couldn't such conversations take place?

Reading such a different perspective to these saakhis is like reading Sikh history for the first time. I'm glad to see the book is

labeled "Volume One", because I can't wait to read the discourse between Guru Nanak and Bhai Lehna, or the conversations

between Bhai Gurdas and Guru Arjan on the bank of Ramsar while scribing the Guru Granth Sahib.

And, of course, the precious dialogue between Mata Gujri ji and her four grandsons.

What I appreciate most about this book is how engaged our children were while reading it - whether it was the beautiful illus-

trations that kept our little ones sneaking a peek into the next page or the discussions we had afterwards that would go on

past bedtime.

It was that little personal connection they created with Guru Nanak that I found so special.

And for that, I am truly grateful.

www.gnfa.org 34

Public Speaking Shines at GNFA

The Khalsa Toastmaster's Club is a non- denominational, public speaking club based at GNFA. In addition to dramati-

cally improving the public speaking skills of its members in an environment of camaraderie, Khalsa Toastrmaster's

Club, in a very subtle way, is introducing Sikhi to the larger community. Congratulations to the Khalsa TM Club on

achieving the highest award of President's Distinguished Club for 2010-2011. The youngest club in the district has won

the highest award and is leading the district!

The Area 45 Division D International Speech and Evaluation Contest was held on March 17th, hosted by Khalsa

Toastmaster's Club at GNFA. Dr. Ajaib Singh Sidhu, who spoke very eloquently and persuasively, won the second

prize in the speech contest.

On information on how to join the club, please contact club president

Dr. Hema Kaur Sidhu at hemamannsidhu@gmail.com

Please visit our website for details http://khalsa.freetoasthost.biz

Message from U.S. Census Bureau

It is a great pleasure for me to announce that your oganization " GURU NANAK FOUNDATION OF AMER-

ICA" has been selected by the Bureau as a NATIONAL PARTNER in the region for your activities and

trusted voice in the community. Congratulation to you all for your great efforts and it is a great honor for

any organization.

Thank you once again.

Dr. Das

Partnership Specialist

GNFA Website Sponsorship

Sponsor GNFA website for one month with a donation of $100 and promote your business.

GNFA website had more than 89,000 hits and more than 13,800 unique hits in last two years.

For sponsorship policy and to be a sponsor, please visit GNFA website and send email to webteam or

contact Gajindar Singh at 301 937 0769.

www.gnfa.org 35

Bhupinder Singh Nibber was born in Lahore, India, to Shabhaz Singh and Pratap Kaur. He was the sec-ond eldest of six siblings. After attending Government College in Ludhiana, he served in Punjab‟s High Court for ten years. Mr. Nibber embraced the entrepreneurial spirit to open his own motor parts factory. One of his greatest interests was reading. He enjoyed reading anything and everything. In addition, while growing up, he loved to play hockey. Mr. Nibber was a man who loved to explore opportunities which led him across the seas to Maryland, USA. He was truly one of a kind - he had an irreplaceable personality. Although he was slightly bashful, Mr. Nibber was a great friend to many members of the GNFA Community. One great attribute of Mr. Nibber was that he was very independent. He never liked asking for help but he was always ready to lend a hand to others. Mr. Nibber was always full of new

ideas. He was the type to always come up with a better way while learning from others and teaching people at the same time.

He visited India often since migrating to the US, sometimes to care for his ailing parents, other times to visit family and tend to personal matters. Most recently, he had been on a trip to India with his wife for three months. Upon immediate return to the US, he was diagnosed with strep pneumonia. Mr. Nibber was actively involved within his family, especially his grandchildren, Andy, Harleen and Hargeet. Even the smallest accomplishments of the three of them brought a smile to his face and made him proud. No matter what he was busy with, Mr. Nibber always made time for his loved ones.

Through Bhupinder Singh Nibber‟s 80 years, 10 months and 5 days, he lived his life to the fullest as much as he could. He strived to live a simple life, yet to always do his best. We may no longer see Mr. Nibber but reminisce of the spe-cial moments we shared with him. He will always have a special part in many of our hearts and will certainly be missed. He is survived by his loving wife, Sudesh Nibber, daughters Lavleen Singh and Anila Khetarpal, sons-in-law Ravinder (Ravi) Singh and Vijay Khetarpal, and grandkids, Andy Pahwa, Harleen Kaur, and Hargeet Kaur.

Mrs. Joginder Kaur Bindra, 1926 to 2010, mother of Paramjeet S. Bindra was born in Rawalpindi. Mar-

ried at a young age, she became part of a close knit, joint business family. As the oldest daughter-in-law,

she was an essential family member who fulfilled her responsibilities beautifully. Even at such a young age,

she was so nurturing that she brought up her youngest brother-in -law. Her nurturing qualities and distinct

mannerisms are a hallmark of her personality.

Biji had always been the bond that held all the family members together, despite the amount of miles be-

tween. She took pride in not only the successes of her children but also supported and prayed for them

during the hardships. Biji can be remembered as always giggling while watching pranks being played on

each other by her children; her unique way of covering her mouth as she laughed was especially endear-

ing. She was actively involved in the lives of her 6 children, 15 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. She lived a

healthy and fulfilling life surrounded by friends and family members. She passed away on 21st Nov 2010 at 4 o‟clock in the

morning after listening to Sukhmani Sahib and Aardas. She passed away in peace, even after suffering advance stage of

liver cancer at the age of 84. Her life is one to be truly rejoiced. She is still alive in our hearts even though she is not physi-

cally present in this world. May her soul rest in peace.

During the first hour of the New Year, Amar Kaur passed away with her family by her side in Potomac,

Maryland. She left her family at the age of ninety-three to colitis. A cremation service was held at

Donaldson Funeral Home in Odenton, Maryland; and Sehaj Paath was held at the Pabla Residence to

celebrate her life. She was born on June 20, 1917 in West Punjab. Amar Kaur was a very compassion-

ate and loving person. She spent her lifetime caring for and raising her family; her husband, daughter,

son-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is survived by her daughter,

Mrs. Kaushalya Devi Pabla, and brother, Mr. Manmohan Singh Saini (we have his blessing at the age of

ninety-five).

Another sad loss to the Pabla family is daughter Jagdish “Dishi” Pabla, who passed away at age fifty-

four on May 12, 2011, with her family by her side at the Casey House Hospice in Rockville, Maryland.

Dishi fought cancer for the past five years very bravely with the most dignified manner. She was born on

February 12, 1957 in Manilla, Philippines. Dishi had a very cheerful personality that has not been for-

gotten and she was a very creative person; she spent her working career as a cosmetologist and a

mother. She is survived by her parents, Dr. and Mrs. Gursewa Singh Pabla, her daughter, Anjali Julka,

and her siblings Permjit, Sudesh, Asha, Rita, Gita, Manish; and 11 nieces and nephews. The Pabla family

would like to thank their relatives, friends and community for all the care and support they have given.

In Memoriam

www.gnfa.org 36

PASSION FOR TRUTH & Punjabi Community Hour TV

For daily news about South Asia and daily

Live Kirtan & HukamNama from Darbar Sahib

Amritsar, visit

www.passionfortruthtv.com

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL Mr. CHAWLA AT (703) 734-0689 OR

E-MAIL TO mschawla@hotmail.com

8909 McGaw Court

Columbia, MD 21045

Tel: 410-381-1830

Fax: 410-381-1831

Cell: 240-832-9220

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Expires 9-30-2011

Expires 9-30-2011

Expires 9-30-2011

Expires 9-30-2011

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