LOS ANGELES: The Association of Sikh Professionals of America, ASPA presented “The Sikh Heritage Award” to Hon. Congressman Wally Herger at a special function held at-gentry here on November 11.

Earlier the Association headed by Dr. (Mrs.) Rani Singh had selected Congressman Wally Herger for this award in recognition of his services for raising his voice against the violations of the human rights of the Sikhs in Punjab by the Indian govt. About 135 Sikh professional invitees were present. The Hon. Tom Bradley, the Mayor of Los Angeles was the chief guest at the function.

At the outset Dr. Narinder Singh Kapani delay ered his lecture on Sikh Heritage.

Gurmeet Singh Soin, the Secretary of the Association in a brief speech acquainted the audience about the history of the association.

The chief guest, Mr. Tom Bradley in his remarks complimented the Sikh Community on their participation in the development of this great city of Los Angeles. He also spoke of the impact of the Sikh Community on Los Angeles and the respect they are receiving because of their hard working nature and dedication at the airport by S. Gurchatan Singh Dhillon President WSO (USA) and S, Lakhbir Singh Chima Senior Vice President WSN and Vice President WSO (USA).

They were taken to the residence of Mr. Chima, where about 80 distinguished Sikhs gave him a affectionate reception. The Hon. Congressman Wally, Herger held an open discussion with these Sikhs present at Mr. Chima’s residence for about two hours.

Mr. Wally Herger and other guests were entertained with tea and sweets by Chima family. Mr. Lakhbir Chima and Mrs. Palwinder Chima presented a donation, a sword and a Siropa to Mr. Wally Herger as a gesture of love and regards for him. Mr. Wally Herger also agreed to Spare time on any of the dates, proposed by the local Sikhs to arrange a big function in his honor. Our reporter added that Congressman Wally Herger was visibly moved by the love and affection shown to him by the people gathered at Mr. Chima’s residence.

Later Mr. Chima and Mr. Dhillon drove him and his party to the Hotel D. Registry for the function of the Association of Sikh Professional. However, Mr. Chima and Mr. Dhillon did not attend the function hosted by ASPA at the hotel.

Article extracted from this publication >>  November 17, 1989