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Norooz Gala or Not

aryavand

aryavand
Total Posts: 7
Joined: Jan 2011

This is topic that has been discussed at many meetings. The Norooz Gala has been a long standing tradition of IMS. Many people look forward to it, we celebrate a beautiful holiday with friends and create cherished memories.

However, this event comes at great expense and effort to the society. It has been the cause of the dwindling society funds. The number of support and attendees has declined over the years, as the expectations and cost of the level of service has not.

I need to hear from the members, if this is something we want to continue or something to leave to other organizations. Please vote on this matter, and if you want to say more than just a vote, than please post on this topic.

Posted on October 02, 2011 at 8:37 PM
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2 Replies

nadersadeghi

Total Posts: 2
Joined: Feb 2011

re: Norooz Gala or Not

I am not sure if Nowruz gala is really worth it. This, in my opinion is wastage of our resources, for not much gain other than trying to have a fancy party. Spending lots of money on a live music show (not sure if worth it and if it is any better than having a DJ). I don't know how much we spend on having this party at the Ritz. To me this is just a show off that I personally do not need. It could be done in just as decent and good places at lower cost. Most importantly there is no spirit of giving, philanthropy, and making this party contribute positively to building the future of our community and contributing to our cultural heritage. Many organizations are trying to have a positive impact on our community, or enhansing and preserving the Iranian cultural heritage and are in need of help. This Gala while being fun should foster spirituall richness by being also a method of raising funds to our community and donating, be it the Persian school, the Iranian community center, the NIAC, the Children of Persia, the center for persian classical music, or just sponsoring scholarship awards to bright Iranian kids who are in need of help etc etc just to name a few. I usually prefer to go to a party that worth the $150-200 a ticket not just spending it on flowers, food, live music , and Ritz, but spending it on the community, by donating portions of the ticket to these causes. If it cannot be that efficient economically, I am not sure if it is worth it. That is probably why the attendance is dwindling. People finding it not really worth the money!

Posted on October 02, 2011 at 10:13 PM

mmassumi

mmassumi
Total Posts: 3
Joined: Feb 2011

re: Norooz Gala or Not

I wish to second Dr. Sadeghi's sentiments that due emphasis should be placed on our medical, educational and civic contributions - in kind and gratis if applicable- to our community and by extension to America at large in preference to an expensive rendering of an annual celebration... however I also wish to emphasize that a gathering in honor of Nowruz is imperative to the continuity of community, charity and our cohesion as well as a meaningful reminder of our ethnic identity.. this very identity and cultural attributes that we so cherish do indeed nourish each and every one of us on a daily basis in our adopted homeland - America - and have much to do with our sense of person and our new focus on contributing to the mosaic of American society..... throughout history the ' Persians' have fostered much goodwill and good cheer as the custodians and beneficiaries of a treasure-trove of literary, cultural and social merit... Let us continue to be the custodians of all that's positive and endearing to the human spirit and as duly reflected in celebrations such as Nowruz.

I suggest that the ' razzle-dazzle' of the Nowruz Gala be softened and that the cost be tempered. But I also strongly suggest that the event remain a cornerstone of the society's activities. To add a stronger degree of merit to it I suggest that the board institute a fund for it that will be charged to recognize and honor young researchers, physicians and future stars of our community of immigrants for their medical, scientific, educational and civic activities. Assign a nominating committee in liaison with the local academic, civic and educational centers in this metro area to actively seek and introduce such deserving honorees. NIAC and PAAIA have large databases and excellent networking capabilities that may be able to provide you lists of nominees.

I take this opportunity to thank the current board and all members of IMS over the last 21 years who owing to their unwavering support through the decades have fostered the kinship and camaraderie that has allowed IMS to remain and to serve our community.


Respectfully submitted,


Mehrdad Michael Massumi, MD
IMS Board Member ( 1990-92)
IMS member in continuity - 1991-2011

Massumi Associates
660 Kenilworth Dr., Ste 200
Towson, MD 21204
410.825.5905 V
410.825.7712 F
mmassumi@massumi.com
www.Massumi.com

Posted on October 03, 2011 at 8:32 AM