IAPAC & Community Leaders Meet Congressman Pete Olson, expresses Interest to Join Indian Cacus
Last updated: March 29, 2009

HOUSTON: A meet and greet style informal round the table meeting was held at Madras Pavilion on Sunday, March 22, between community leaders and Congressman Pete Olson of District 22 that includes Fort Bend county, Harris county and Clear Lake area. This event was organized by IAPAC.

More than 40 leaders from the cross section of the community attended this two hour long bipartisan political event. Current FBISD President Sonal Bhuchar and another Indo-American member, Robin Elackatt, a candidate for Missouri City council position also attended the meeting.

Recently, Pete Olson was rushed to George Washington University Hospital, after he fainted while working out in the gym. It was determined that he had a condition called bradycardia, that is a medical condition for slow heart beat. The docs have equipped him with a dual chamber pacemaker.

Hence, in the beginning of the event, prayers were performed by Gaurang Patel of BAPS, particularly for the fast recovery and good health for Pete Olson and also for peace in the world. Sanjay Rao, an active member of IAPAC, introduced Congressman Pete Olson. Then IAPAC President informed the Congressman about the community and IAPAC activities.

Each member introduced themselves and provided inputs on their community participation. Sonal Bhuchar talked briefly about the FBISD and her upcoming election, since she only has an opponent. Robin Elackatt also said a few words about the Missouri City issues, his candidacy and elections. In his remarks, Pete Olson thanked IAPAC and leaders for giving him an opportunity to meet with them. He complimented IAPAC and other leaders for helping with the US-India Civil Nuclear Agreement to get approved. He expressed his views about the current situation at the White House and the nation.

Later, he opened the forum to question and answer session. The members asked a variety of questions related to H-1B visa, immigration, health and insurance, education, terrorism, and international political issues. During the conversation, he expressed his interest in joining the India Caucus. Based on his interest, IAPAC members are planning to visit him in a near future with more information.

The meeting was extended due to the interest shown by the leaders in Q & A session. After the Vote of Thanks by Ramesh Anand, the meeting was adjournment with a great feeling of knowing each other between Congressman and the community. The members enjoyed the Masala tea and refreshments provided by Madras Pavilion and Patel Brothers.