Happy New Year to all readers around the state, our well-wishers and advertisers.

We are thrilled to bring you an issue packed with news about upcoming activities in January and the months to follow. Do find the time to attend Republic Day, Makarsankrant (kite flying) and Rath Yatra (chariot festival) events being celebrated throughout West Central Florida.

And read about one of our picks � Bombay Masala � in the Out & About in Florida column. The Tampa restaurant owned by chef Vijay Keni is now more than 14 years old and going strong as ever. Also, we at Khaas Baat, spent an entire Saturday afternoon at the Red Crescent Clinic in Tampa (on the grounds of the Islamic Society of Tampa Bay) to do a half-page story. It was an honor for us to meet physicians and volunteers donating their time and expertise toward such a noble cause � free medical care for those who cannot afford it.

And if you missed out on some good films at the box-office, check out our top 10 Bollywood picks for the year that�s gone by. We also want to thank Usha Mistry of Tampa for informing us about the achievements of her son, Mahesh, who recently was honored as an Eagle Scout. Do e-mail us information about your children�s achievements or any happenings in your Florida community at [email protected] by the 20th of each month.

We welcome your comments or suggestions. To send us information about events in your town, e-mail [email protected] by the 20th of each month.

If you would like to receive a copy of our newspaper every month, please e-mail us at [email protected]. Thanks for your support.

We would like to once again extend our sincere gratitude to all advertisers and well-wishers. Do e-mail us at [email protected] with any ideas and suggestions or send in a letter to the editor.