Wantagh Park, Long Island: The American Punjabi Society (APS) successfully hosted its First Annual Picnic, which turned out to be a resounding success and a true celebration of community spirit. It was a day marked by joy, laughter, and togetherness, where families, friends, and well-wishers came together to enjoy the outdoors and strengthen community bonds.
The event featured great food, great teamwork, and a great get-together, reflecting the strength, unity, and vitality of the APS community. Guests were treated to traditional Punjabi delicacies alongside festive favorites, while lively music, dance, and sports activities added to the fun-filled atmosphere. Children especially enjoyed games such as sack races, cricket, and face painting, which added color and excitement to the family-friendly celebration. Mr. Jasbir Singh Japra delighted everyone by treating children to ice cream and bringing fresh sugar cane pieces, adding a sweet and traditional touch to the festivities. Youth and seniors alike joined in, making the picnic truly intergenerational.
.jpg)
Special recognition goes to Mr. Gary Sikka, whose vision and dedication continue to bring the community closer, and to Ms. Navneet Sondhi, Chair of the APS Women’s Council, under whose leadership and tireless efforts — along with her dedicated team and energetic young volunteers Ms. Priyanka Khanna, Ms. Shweta Malhotra, Ms. Harleen Jolly, Ms. Dilsheet Kaur, Ms. Taranjeet Ahuja, Ms. Swati Anand, and Ms. Guntaj Arora — ensured the event’s smooth success. The youth volunteers were led by Ms. Janessa Sondhi, Director of the APS Youth Wing. Their commitment exemplified the spirit of collective teamwork and hospitality that APS is known for.
During the picnic, citations from Joseph Saladino, Town Supervisor of Oyster Bay, were presented to the volunteers who had worked tirelessly during the highly successful APS Blood Drive held on August 10, 2024, at AsaMai Temple. These volunteers were recognized for their dedication to public service and for making a life-saving impact through their contributions. The Blood Drive, organized in collaboration with New York Cancer and Blood Specialists (led by Dr. Tarun Wasil), the New York Blood Center, AAPI–QLI, and AsaMai Temple, far exceeded expectations. Dr. Tarun Wasil, who led the medical team during the Blood Drive, was also one of the first to attend the picnic, reflecting his ongoing commitment to community service.
.jpg)
The picnic was further honored by the presence of respected leaders from Gurdwara Guru Nanak Darbar, including Chairman Dyal Singh Vohra, President Balbeer S. Pahwa, S. Harcharan Singh Gulati, and Cashier S. Santok S. Bajaj, Harbans Singh Vohra, and Tarlok Singh Vohra. Speaking on behalf of the group,:
Town Clerk Ragini Srivastava of the Town of North Hempstead attended the picnic as a special guest. In her remarks, she praised the work of the APS Women’s Council and encouraged them to continue their leadership role, highlighting the importance of women’s empowerment and active participation in community life.
Town Clerk Ragini Srivastava commended APS for its efforts:
“APS has shown how community organizations can bring people together with love, respect, and service. Events like this picnic not only provide joy but also strengthen our cultural and social bonds.”
APS President Gary Sikka expressed his gratitude, “This picnic was more than just an outing — it was a testament to the power of collective spirit, teamwork, and leadership. The joy on everyone’s faces showed the strength of our unity and the values that hold our community together. Honoring our Blood Drive volunteers with citations from Supervisor Joseph Saladino made the occasion even more meaningful.”
The APS Picnic is part of the organization’s annual calendar of major events, which also includes the Blood Drive, Cancer Awareness Walk, Vaisakhi Celebration, and Annual Gala. With each initiative, APS continues to uphold its mission of service, unity, and cultural pride, making every gathering memorable and meaningful.
(All photos courtesy: American Punjabi Society)
