The newly elected President of New York Tamil Sangam, Albert Chelladurai spoke about the vision of the new team and plans to take the association to the hearts of Tamils. "There will be interesting and participatory programs to entertain the members besides showcasing culture and heritage of Tamils," he said.

The programs consisted of soul-stirring music by students of Sumathy Haran, Nivedita ShivRaj, New Year songs by Christava Tamil Koil members, dance by students of Saavitri Ramanand, villupattu by Kalaiarasi and group, quiz on Tamils for youth and children, dance by Indirani Ganesalingam with Hindu Temple Society Patasala students, Thiruvalar Thirumathi -Mrs. and Mr. New Yorker - contest by Brahashitha Gupta, and dance choreographed by Prithi with members of HTS Youth Club and Jana Gana Mana dance by Vijaya Baloo attracted the 400 plus audience who cheered the participants.

P. Pradeep Kumar, country head of State Bank of India, chief guest and grand sponsor of the activities for 2008, praised the Sangam for its efforts to promote Tamil and its rich culture in the East Coast.C. Shanmugam, one of the founders of the Sangam, introduced the new office-holders and bade farewell to the outgoing team led by Kanchana Poola that was in office for eight years. A farewell was also accorded to Dr. A. Venkatachalam, former treasurer of the Sangam and Azhagammmai, who are moving back to Tamil Nadu.

A large number of Sri Lankan Tamils participated in the events as a mark of solidarity to the language which is spoken in at least 10 countries in the world. Madhavan Ramaswamy, treasurer, outlined the advantage of becoming members of the Sangam and Prakash M. Swami, secretary, proposed a vote of thanks.