Grand Ceremony Featuring Oath-Taking of New Committee, Awards, and Cultural Performances
by Shah J. Choudhury
New York, August 25, 2025 – The New York Bangladeshi American Lions Club (NYBALC), which has been actively contributing to the community for over a decade, held its new executive committee inauguration for 2025–26 and the club’s 12th anniversary in a grand ceremony. The event took place on Monday, August 19, at The Royal Palm Banquet Hall in Farmingdale, Long Island, with over 400 Lions Club members, guests, and community leaders in attendance.
Guests and Honors
The event was graced by Past District Governor Terry Paladini, Second Vice District Governor Lion Shah Newaz, Past President Lion Advocate Nasir Uddin, Past President & Region Director Lion Mohammad Saeed, Past President Lion Ahsan Habib, among other district officials.
New York State Assemblywoman Jennifer Rajkumar honored several club members with proclamations and citations, commending their contributions to the Bangladeshi-American community.
Ceremony and Oath-Taking
The ceremony was conducted in two sessions. The first session was presided over by outgoing President Lion Roki Alian, and the second by newly elected President Lion JFM Russell.
The program began with the National Anthem, Quran recitation, Pledge of Allegiance, and Lions’ Toast. New executive committee members were formally introduced to the audience in a rhythmic musical presentation.
Past President Lion Mohammad Saeed administered the oath to 46 new members, marking a significant highlight of the event.
Awards and Recognition
Several individuals were recognized for their contributions with honor crests, including Election Commissioner Lion Reza Rashid, Lion Amena Newaz, and Abdur Rahim Howlader. Organizers emphasized that these honors would inspire recipients to take on greater responsibilities in the future.
Cultural Performances
The cultural segment was hosted by Lion Sharmina Siraj Sonia, featuring mesmerizing dance performances by artist Ritu Porna Banerjee. Music and dance added a vibrant touch to the evening, and attendees thoroughly enjoyed the performances.
Remarks by the Inaugural Committee Chairman
Inaugural Committee Chairman and Second Vice District Governor of District 20-R2, Lion Shah Newaz, highlighted the club’s ongoing initiatives and future plans. He stated:
“The New York Bangladeshi American Lions Club is committed to humanitarian service. Our goal is to expand our outreach so that the broader Bangladeshi-American community and society at large can benefit from our programs.”
Greetings from Club Leaders
Additional greetings and remarks were delivered by community figures Nurul Azim, ASM Uddin Pintu, Moshiur Rahman Mojumdar, and Fahad Sulaiman. Newly elected President Lion JFM Russell concluded with:
“This club is not just an organization; it is a family devoted to serving humanity. In the coming years, we aim to extend our community service initiatives on a larger scale.”
Closing & Raffle Draw
The evening concluded with an exciting raffle draw, which was enthusiastically participated in by both guests and members. Winners received their prizes amidst much celebration.
Photo courtesy by Neher Siddiquee
