Message from GOPIO International Chairman Thomas Abraham

Greetings from New York, USA

The Life Members and Chapter Delegates from the New York area are excited to host the GOPIO International Convention from April 26-28 this year. A kick-off meeting for the convention organisation launch and the planning meeting will be held on Sunday, January 28th. Please see the details below. We request all the Life Members and Chapter Delegates from the New York area to attend this meeting so that you can actively participate in the Convention 2024. We also need volunteers to serve on the various committees.

Please plan to come to New York (the closest airport is Newark, New Jersey) for the convention, where we will have the Annual General Body Meeting. GOPIO Convention will also be a fun event, with some side trips (including optional trips to New York City, Atlantic City and Washington DC). Those applying for a US visa may write to GOPIO Convention Convener Prakash Shah at firstgrwth@aol. com or 908- 267-5021.

GOPIO News, in the new format, has been welcomed by everyone. The editorial team plans to bring it out every 20th of the month. All chapters are requested to send in the chapter's news before the 15th of the month. Life members may send news items on any recognition, achievement or award. Please send the news items to GOPIO International Executive Vice President and GOPIO News Editor-in-Chief Umesh Chandra at ceo@ chantex.com.au.

Our Social Media (Facebook and WhatsApp) has taken off. Those not consented to join the WhatsApp group may send it along with the WhatsApp number to namique@gmail. com.

The strength of GOPIO depends on the involvement of its Life Members and chapters. To make a more vital organisation, we need your help to increase the number of life members and chapters. Please invite your family members and friends/colleagues to become a GOPIO International Life member (http://gopio.net/ gopio_membership.html) or initiate a chapter in your city or area (see details at http://gopio. net/chapter_initiative.htm).

I am wishing everyone a wonderful week and a great 2024.