The Indian Panorama

Tag: NY/NJ/CT

  • CHANCELLOR BANKS ANNOUNCES NINE NEW SCHOOLS OPENING FOR THE 2024-25 ACADEMIC YEAR

    CHANCELLOR BANKS ANNOUNCES NINE NEW SCHOOLS OPENING FOR THE 2024-25 ACADEMIC YEAR

    NEW YORK (TIP): Schools Chancellor David C. Banks, on April 4, announced that NYC Public Schools’ newly revamped Office of New School Development and Design will open nine new schools for the 2024-25 academic year. This marks the latest effort by Chancellor Banks to fulfill the administration’s promise to provide increased access to accelerated schools as well as increasing elementary school and high school seat capacity in neighborhoods with overcrowded schools.

    “Every child deserves a high-quality education that gives them the support needed to thrive in our changing world,” said Chancellor David C. Banks. “We are reimagining the student experience through these innovative school models — a citywide effort only possible thanks to mayoral accountability.”

    The Office of New School Development and Design is charged with engaging district and school leaders as well as families, communities, and partner organizations to create innovative learning spaces specifically targeted to meet the needs of students today. This includes overseeing early visioning, strategic planning, operationalizing and leadership development for each new school. This approach creates high-quality, sustainable school models.

    “Every single new school shapes futures and empowers the next generation with the tools they need to build a more informed, inclusive world,” said Dr. Shawn Rux, Senior Executive Director of the Office of New School Development and Design. “We are opening schools with groundbreaking vision, and the fearless conviction that all students can and will succeed.”

    The new schools that will open in September 2024 are:

    M.S. 644

    District 9

    Grades 6-8

    M.S. 428

    District 15

    Grades 6-8

    P.S. 482

    District 13

    Grades Pre-K – 5

    P.S. 456

    District 15

    Grades Pre-K – 5

    Bard High School Early College- Brooklyn

    District 19

    Grades 9-12

    P.S. 331

    District 20

    Grades K-5

    P.S. 413

    District 20

    Grades K-5

    M.S. 407

    District 20

    Grades 6-8

    Motion Picture Technical High School

    District 30

    Grades 9-12

    “The SCA is proud to have been part of the collaborative effort behind integrating these new schools into NYC’s public school system,” SCA President and CEO Nina Kubota said. “Five of these schools will inhabit newly constructed buildings by the SCA, designed to offer students the optimal learning environment and resources for success. They are part of the 24 buildings we are opening in 2024 adding more than 11,000 much-needed seats citywide.”

    “With the arrival of M.S. 644, our young scholars in the South Bronx will soon have a curriculum focused on debate, multilingualism, and experiential learning that will prepare them for high school and beyond,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “I am excited the Bronx is included in today`s announcement and look forward to working with Mayor Adams and Chancellor Banks to expand pathways and opportunities for our youth to receive a high-quality education in our borough.”

    “Brooklyn’s getting new and much-needed public schools, and I am so grateful for the tremendous benefits they will bring to our students,” said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. “I’m particularly excited to welcome Bard High School Early College to Brownsville/East New York, a community that has faced generations of barriers to higher education and deserves the accessible accelerated learning opportunities the school will bring.

    I’m also glad to see more public-school seats opening up in southern Brooklyn’s District 20, where my Comprehensive Plan shows overcrowding is particularly acute. Thank you to the Department of Education and the School Construction Authority for championing these new education opportunities for our youngest New Yorkers.”

    “As communities across Queens continue to grow, our need for more school seats is clear. With the opening of Motion Picture Tech High School slated for this fall, hundreds of Queens students will be able to enjoy a specialized education in preparation of careers in the film production industry,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “I look forward to working with NYC Schools to rapidly expand our stock of school seats across Queens in the months and years to come.”

    “Adding a Bard High School Early College Program as an option for students in Senate District 19 is an excellent investment in the community. It will lead to a path of many opportunities for the students who will attend. I look forward to its opening in the upcoming academic year and commend Chancellor Banks on his vision to reimagine the student experience by providing more educational options to our scholars”. – Senator Roxanne J. Persaud.

    “We are excited to bring a new Middle School to District 9 in the 77th Assembly District. The children in our community deserve a quality education that will allow them to reach their potential to be great New Yorkers. All of our children deserve quality education in updated educational environments.” -Assembly Member Landon Dais, 77th District

    “I am thrilled to celebrate the opening of nine new schools for the 2024-25 academic year. This announcement marks a significant investment in our children’s future and underscores our commitment to providing quality education opportunities for all. These new schools will not only enrich our educational landscape but also empower our students to reach their fullest potential. I commend the dedication and vision of the educators, administrators, and community members who have worked tirelessly to bring these institutions to life. Together, let us embrace this exciting milestone and continue to prioritize the success and well-being of every student in our great city.” – Council Member Rita Joseph and Chair, Education Committee

    “As a District 20 kid, I’m really so proud just to be around for this moment. Since day one, I’ve made it my mission to help build as many new public schools as I could so that every child will have the same access to opportunity that I had growing up. District 20 is one of the best school districts in the city and therefore it is also one of the most overcrowded so building new schools is truly a win-win for generations to come. I deeply value this partnership with Chancellor Banks and NYC Public Schools because strong schools ultimately equal strong communities.” – Council Member Justin Brannan and Chair, Finance committee

    “I alongside many of my constituents welcome the opening of new public schools in South Brooklyn. Even more so, I’m very excited to see a middle school in Sunset Park set to provide a culturally competent education with Spanish and Chinese programming to meet our students where they are. I thank the Department for recognizing the diverse needs of the people in our neighborhood and I look forward to working with the principal, teachers, and parent bodies on the naming of the school and so much more!”- Council Member Alexa Avilés

    “Ensuring the provision of high-quality education accompanied by comprehensive support for every child in the 42nd Council District is essential. This school model will help prepare our students academically and with personal growth.” – Council Member Chris Banks

    “I’m excited to celebrate the opening of Motion Picture Technical High School in CEC 30 to ensure our scholars have access to high-quality public school education,” said Council Member Julie Won. “This new high school on Northern Boulevard will provide students with technical film and television skills to prepare them for careers at institutions like Silvercup Studios and beyond. Thank you to Chancellor Banks and NYC Public Schools for your partnership in providing our children with the educational opportunities they need to flourish.”

    “As the mother of two girls attending our city’s wonderful public school system, it is necessary that we build more schools and make sure that every student has a seat in the classroom. Every student has a right to a quality education. I’m incredibly grateful to Chancellor Banks and the Department of Education for prioritizing the expansion of schools in our district. This is a tremendous step forward in our efforts as a city towards education equity.”

    – Council Member Susan Zhuang

  • City Planning Congratulates this Year’s Class of Youth Engagement Curriculum Graduates

    City Planning Congratulates this Year’s Class of Youth Engagement Curriculum Graduates

    Taking place at The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology, the curriculum helps give seniors the planning tools to advocate for their communities.

    NEW YORK (TIP): Department of City Planning Director Dan Garodnick, on April 4, announced that 45 high school seniors from The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology (MSHS223) in Mott Haven, the Bronx graduated from DCP’s youth engagement curriculum course, which teaches young people about planning concepts to help them become civic leaders and advocates in their communities. Click here for a gallery of photos from today’s ceremony.

    “The great work that these students have produced through this course demonstrates that the next generation of planners is ready to craft a better future for New York City. Congratulations to them, the teachers, City Planning staff, and everyone who helped make this important curriculum possible,” said Dan Garodnick, Director of the Department of City Planning.

    “Our students know their neighborhoods better than anyone, and I commend all the young people honored today for not only showing promise as future leaders of our city, but demonstrating their capacity as current leaders in their communities,” said New York City Schools (DOE) Chancellor David C. Banks. “I urge my fellow city leaders to really listen to what our students have to say and celebrate their voice.”

    “By providing students with an opportunity to engage with city agencies and visit sites located within their communities, the Department of City Planning is providing the next generation of urban planners and advocates a ‘hands-on’ experience that will better equip them to make an impact on the future of their neighborhoods,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) President & CEO Andrew Kimball. “NYCEDC was thrilled to host this year’s students at the historic Kingsbridge Armory, where we had the opportunity to discuss what a redeveloped armory would mean for the community, and we look forward to hosting next year’s students.”

    “Congratulations to the graduates of DCP’s youth engagement curriculum! This program equips our youth with leadership and city planning skills, and a deeper understanding of community engagement. By evaluating street improvement projects near their school, the students learned firsthand how to enhance their neighborhood’s livability and design safer streets. As future leaders, we are preparing them to address the challenges facing our city, how to become effective advocates, and how to actively contribute to our city’s improvement,” said New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez.

    “I am proud of the work of each of the high school seniors of The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology MSHS 223 who successfully completed the Department of City Planning’s youth engagement curriculum course,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “When you involve our youth at an early age in real-world projects and developments that address sustainability, transportation, and affordable housing, they are not only becoming informed citizens but are also more equipped to support their communities. I want to thank Department of City Planning Director Dan Garodnick and his team of planners, human resource experts, and urban designers along with staff from The Laboratory School for their collective work in creating this amazing opportunity for our teens.”

    At today’s student fair, seniors presented their final projects to City government leaders, including representatives from DCP, DOE, DOT, EDC, the Department of Housing Preservation and Development, and the Department of Small Business Services, as well as community groups such as the Architectural League, Living City Project, and South Bronx Unite. The 45 seniors who participated in the youth engagement curriculum were divided into three classes, each of whom did a mock neighborhood study of Bronx Community District 1. Each study was exhibited through five displays – one that showed a plan overview and four that covered key topics studied during their course: housing, economic development, sustainability/resiliency, and transportation.

    The curriculum was crafted by DCP’s Community Planning and Engagement division and Civic Engagement Studio, and included lessons on urban planning concepts, planning history, urban design, and advocacy and decision-making, including how the public review process works. DCP is dedicated to putting communities at the forefront of planning conversations about the future of their neighborhoods.

    “Over the past eight weeks, DCP’s Community Planning and Engagement division has empowered F&T seniors to articulate and advocate for their visions of a more equitable and sustainable city. Students transitioned from observers to active participants in the city planning process, proposing insightful plans based on their lived experiences and aspirations for the South Bronx. I would like to thank DCP for equipping students with both the platform and audience to shape the future of economic development, housing, sustainability, and transportation in our city,” said Hope Grossman Devore, government teacher at The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology.

    “Developing a project about affordable housing was a really enjoyable experience. It allowed me and others to contribute to the future and help our community. I learned about the importance of communication during this unit because that way we can create a strong relationship between people, leaders, and communities when it comes to city planning,” said Edwin Lucas, senior at The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology.

    “I really enjoyed brainstorming ideas and finding solutions for creating better living spaces in the city planning project. I learned about economic development and discovered how vital it is to invest in young people through proper training and support because we are the future generation. It’s exciting to think about how empowering young people in the workforce can lead to a stronger economy and brighter future for all of us,” said Gideon Owusu, senior at The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology.

    Now in its third year, the eight-week curriculum began on February 5, 2024, and was structured to build students’ advocacy skills and elevate their voices and ideas on neighborhood needs. The course featured planners and urban designers as well as teachers from The Laboratory School; and included input from City agencies with deep expertise in housing, economic development, planning, and much more.

    All three classes went on site visits that covered the four main planning topics. For housing and sustainability, the students visited Via Verde, an income-restricted, energy-efficient building in the South Bronx. To learn more about economic development, the students went on a guided tour of the Kingsbridge Armory with the New York City Economic Development Corporation. For transportation, they joined the New York City Department of Transportation at street improvement projects near their school, measuring street widths and analyzing vehicle speeds.

    DCP’s Community Planning and Engagement division continues to explore opportunities to expand the program to other schools and get more students involved in planning and civic advocacy.

    Department of City Planning
    The Department of City Planning (DCP) plans for the strategic growth and development of the City through ground-up planning with communities, the development of land use policies and zoning regulations applicable citywide, and its contribution to the preparation of the City’s 10-year Capital Strategy. DCP promotes housing production and affordability, fosters economic development and coordinated investments in infrastructure and services, and supports resilient, sustainable communities across the five boroughs for a more equitable New York City.

    In addition, DCP supports the City Planning Commission in its annual review of approximately 450 land use applications for a variety of discretionary approvals. The Department also assists both government agencies and the public by advising on strategic and capital planning and providing policy analysis, technical assistance and data relating to housing, transportation, community facilities, demography, zoning, urban design, waterfront areas and public open space.

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  • Six Middlesex College Students Are in the Hunt for the Prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship

    Six Middlesex College Students Are in the Hunt for the Prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship

    MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ (TIP): Six Middlesex College students have been selected as semifinalists for the Jack Kent Cooke College Scholarship. The students are: Safia Ansari of Woodbridge Township, Adriana Fung of North Brunswick, Theodore Kozak of Middlesex Borough, Nima Sedghi of Piscataway, and Idaliz Herrera and Crystal Paulino, both from Perth Amboy.

    The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation’s prestigious Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship is one of the most selective scholarships for the nation’s top community college students seeking to complete their bachelor’s degrees at four-year colleges or universities. Each Cooke Scholar has access to generous financial support for two to three years (which can be much as $55,000 a year after all institutional aid is considered), college planning support, ongoing advising, and the opportunity to connect with a thriving community of fellow Scholars.

    In applying for one of the most lucrative scholarships in the country, Ansari, Fung, Herrera, Kozak, Paulino, and Sedghi, all part of Middlesex College’s Class of 2024, competed against thousands of community college applicants competing nationwide.

    “To have six students from Middlesex College selected for the semi-final round of the Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship is a testament to the quality of education that our institution provides, but more importantly, the academic caliber of our students,” said President Mark McCormick. “We could not be prouder of Safia Ansari, Adriana Fung, Idaliz Herrera, Theodore Kozak, Crystal Paulino, and Nima Sedghi, and all that they have accomplished to have received this recognition. I have no doubt they will go on to achieve great things after they graduate from Middlesex College.”

    That recognition was not lost on Fung, a psychology major who plans on continuing her studies at Rutgers University in the fall so that she can one day become a counselor.

    “It’s a great feeling to be acknowledged for my efforts, especially when I’ve had doubts about whether I’m doing enough. Winning this scholarship would be life-changing. It would bring me peace and confidence, allowing me to focus on my studies without worrying about debt,” Fung said

    Herrera, too, will be attending Rutgers this fall. The biology major plans to transfer to that university’s Environmental and Biological Sciences School.

    “Once I transfer, I will pursue my bachelor’s in microbiology, with a possible minor in genetics. I want to work in a laboratory setting, but I am still deciding on what career will entail what I am looking for. So far, my interest lies in becoming a geneticist.”
    Ansari will graduate with an associate degree in business administration. Her post-graduate plans include obtaining an internship in marketing, a bachelor’s degree in economics, and a certification in entrepreneurship. After achieving a bachelor’s degree, she hopes to work in business internationally, as well as pursue a master’s degree. “Winning the [Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship] award would be life-changing for me. It would not only validate all the hard work and sacrifices I’ve made but also open doors to resources and opportunities that could shape my career and, ultimately, make a positive impact on the world,” Ansari aid.

    Kozak had started his college career at another institution. He came to Middlesex College to pursue nursing but changed his major to philosophy after developing a love for the subject. He now wants to pursue a bachelor’s in philosophy and eventually become a professor at a college or university.

    No one is more surprised by the Cooke Scholarship semi-finalist selection and all that has happened to him since enrolling at Middlesex College than Kozak.

    “It was kind of life-changing in a way coming back to school. I’ve been out of school for almost a decade. So, it’s kind of shocking for all this to work out. I can say, for the first time, I have self-worth and it’s gratifying,” he said.

    Paulino will be graduating with an associate degree in human services/pre-social work. She plans to pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees in her quest to become a licensed independent clinical social worker.

    “I did not ever think I would graduate high school, let alone college. As someone who was raised on Section 8 and experienced homelessness, I genuinely did not believe I would be able to afford college,” she explained. “With motivation, support, and psychotherapy, any person can feel more than capable of making the world a better place, and I plan to spend every moment doing just that.”

    Sedghi, a chemistry major, was born and raised in Iran and moved to the U.S. just a few years ago. As an immigrant and a non-traditional student, he says balancing his full-time studies while working full-time has not been without its challenges.

    “The financial assistance from the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation would not only relieve these pressures, it would enable me to participate in different research opportunities, have hands-on clinical experiences, and dedicate more time to study so I can pursue my lifelong aspirations,” said Sedghi.

    For more information, visit middlesexcollege.edu.

    MIDDLESEX COLLEGE, NJ
    Middlesex College, established in 1964, is a public, two-year institution of higher education located in the heart of New Jersey. With a main campus in Edison and centers in New Brunswick and Perth Amboy, Middlesex College offers over 85 degree and certificate programs encouraging its more than 10,000 students to explore, grow, and thrive. Middlesex College, through dedicated faculty, state-of-the-art educational facilities, and holistic student supports, is committed to providing a high-quality, affordable college education that provides every student an opportunity for growth and achievement. Middlesex College is Middlesex County’s premier destination for lifelong learning and workforce training. Learn more at middlesexcollege.edu.

     

  • CELEBRATE “FESTIVAL OF COLORS” AT LONG ISLAND CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

    CELEBRATE “FESTIVAL OF COLORS” AT LONG ISLAND CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

    Holi Traditions Explored During April 14 Multi-Sensory Festival

    GARDEN CITY, NY (TIP): Long Island Children’s Museum invites visitors to “Celebrate Holi!,” a holiday focused on welcoming spring and all its beautiful colors on Sunday, April 14 (11 a.m.-4 p.m.). This festive holiday, which originated in India, is devoted to celebrating the arrival of spring, meeting others, enjoying play and laughter and forgiving and forgetting. Celebrate Holi! is supported by the Guru Krupa Foundation and JP Morgan Chase & Co.

    “We look forward to a wonderful celebration of Holi for the whole community to enjoy,” says LICM President Erika Floreska. “LICM cultural programs have always served as an invitation; welcoming families to learn from and about each other’s traditions. We know that this colorful celebration will be appreciated by all our visitors and create a long-lasting memory for all visitors.”

    During the celebration, families unfamiliar with this exuberant holiday will have the chance to learn alongside those who celebrate annually. Visitors will learn why the holiday is known as the “Festival of Colors” as they take part in the tossing of colored powders made from flowers (known as gulal) on each other. This outdoor activity creates a human mosaic, representing all the colors seen in spring. Color tosses are scheduled at 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to wear white clothes for the color toss. 

    Celebrate Holi! activities

    Swirls of Color – Srijan Dance Company members will demonstrate classic dances performed during Holi festivals
    • Performances of classical and folk dances by Srijan Dance Company, based on

    mythological Indian stories.

    • Participating in a live rangoli design project, led by Dr. Anju D. Modak, to learn about this traditional artform as they help finalize her rangoli design and make a take-home version of their own using dal (lentils).
    • Tasting the sweet and savory traditional foods enjoyed during Holi.
    • Decorating a 5-foot papier-mâché elephant – Children and families will add adornment to the elephant, the symbol of intellect and wisdom in Indian mythology.
    • Creating Krishna masks – Children will learn about Krishna, the god of love and devotion and the most famous of all the heroes of Hindu mythology.
    • Traditional Holi Clothing Exhibit- Photos of Holi Festivals and costumes from different parts of India will be on display at the Children’s Museum.

    Central to the Children’s Museum’s mission is its role as a community gathering place, where all families can learn about the cultural traditions of each other in an educational, inclusive space. LICM’s programming reflects the changing demographics of the region to ensure that all neighbors feel welcome and represented.

    The Museum has hosted a variety of cultural festivals over the years, including Lunar New Year, Diwali, Vietnamese Mid-Autumn Festival, a celebration of Korean Culture and a Native American cranberry harvest. All activities and performances at the Holi Festival are included with museum admission. 

     About the Long Island Children’s Museum (www.licm.org)

    The mission of Long Island Children’s Museum (LICM) is to connect all our communities’ children, and those who care for them, to a life of wonder, imagination and exploration. At LICM, children discover their passions and their relationship to the world we share. The 40,000-square-foot museum serves over 300,000 children and adults annually. The private, not-for-profit institution chartered by the New York State Board of Regents, offers museum-based educational programs and cultural experiences, as well as an extensive community outreach program offered in schools, libraries and youth centers across Long Island. Additionally, the Children’s Museum operates the historic Nunley’s Carousel in association with Nassau County, one of three intact Stein & Goldstein carousels still in existence.

    Recognized with several honors, including the National Medal from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), LICM is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), the gold standard of museum excellence. It is currently the only accredited children’s museum in New York State and is one of only 16 accredited children’s museums nationwide. LICM has earned 4-stars on Charity Navigator and has Platinum Transparency on Candid.

  • State Senator Mukherji endorses former Gov. McGreevey for Jersey City mayor

    State Senator Mukherji endorses former Gov. McGreevey for Jersey City mayor

    JERSEY CITY, NJ (TIP): “At this moment in Jersey City’s history, there is no one better equipped, better qualified, better suited to lead this city than Jim McGreevey. For that reason, with all of your support, I’m endorsing Jim McGreevey to be the next mayor”, NJ State Senator Mukherji said.

    He continued that McGreevey, also a former state assemblyman, senator, and mayor of Woodbridge, has “unrivaled experience” across the state that will help to keep streets clean, taxes stable, and funding coming into the city from all possible avenues. Pointing to economic development as a great success, Mukherji said it also makes affordability difficult and forces multi-generation families out in some cases, which is why experience is key in 2025. Mukherji joins nine mayors from the Hudson County Democratic Organization, along with County Executive Craig Guy, in backing McGreevey.

    Former Gov. Jim McGreevey Jersey City mayor candidate speaking at an event in Jersey City on March 23, 2024 (Photo : Mohammed Jaffer-Snapsindia)
    Former Gov. Jim McGreevey Jersey City mayor candidate speaking at an event in Jersey City on March 23, 2024 (Photo : Mohammed Jaffer-Snapsindia)

    “This is our city; this is our community. And what’s so critically important is that we understand this is about families, this is about communities – it’s about our community and our way of life – it’s about how we interact with each other, how we respect each other, and what kind of future we have,” McGreevey said.

    “The first is when we talk about affordability, we talk about taxes and we talk about rent. And I think we need to understand, as a number of individuals have said, that the school board is presently spending over a billion dollars a year. And when you look at the trajectory for spending, what you see if that there has been an exponential increase in expenditures, which obviously has an impact in terms of the bottom line on property taxes.”

    McGreevey continued that only 10 percent of Jersey City 8th graders in public schools met proficiency standards in math and only one third are literacy appropriate in third grade.

    Bhavesh Patel, a community leader speaking at the event. (Photo : Mohammed Jaffer-Snapsindia)
    Bhavesh Patel, a community leader speaking at the event. (Photo : Mohammed Jaffer-Snapsindia)

    He vowed to work with the school district in “being committed to excellence” and quality education being “a cornerstone of our efforts,” as well as keeping property taxes and spending low, he vowed to control costs and live within our means. The former governor cited the Pompidou project, which he recently denounced, and the ice rink at Pershing Field being closed for two years as examples of where the city needs to do better, along with $1.6 billion being spent on new sewer and water lines.

    “As Raj said, I think this is the most diverse city, not only in this state, but in this nation – it represents an American ideal that we believe in a value system of opportunity and responsibility,” McGreevey stated.

    “My commitment is to work as hard as you every single day, and bluntly, I don’t have all the answers, but I’m convinced, together, as a community, if we work hard, if we work responsibly, if we work with consistency, we can drive a work ethic that’s going to make Jersey City even better than what it is today.” The non-partisan Jersey City municipal elections, which include all nine council seats, are on November 4th, 2025.

    A view of the audience. (Photo : Mohammed Jaffer-Snapsindia)
  • The Association of Indians in America National Executive Committee (NEC) for 2024 & 2025 inaugurated

    The Association of Indians in America National Executive Committee (NEC) for 2024 & 2025 inaugurated

    GLEN COVE, NY (TIP): Gobind Munjal, the National President of The Association of Indians in America (AIA), was sworn-in once again for the 2nd term 2024 & 2025 along with his National Executive Committee in an exciting Inauguration ceremony arranged at Metropolitan Caterers in Glen Cove, Long Island on Saturday, March 16th, 2024. Since AIA is a National organization, its out of State Members attended the ceremony via zoom.

    The occasion was graced by the chief guest Honorable Consul General Binaya S. Pradhan. The Inauguration and Oath ceremony was attended by about one hundred attendees. This included AIA founding members, board of Trustees, AIA National Past Presidents, chapter Presidents, community leaders, AIA members, friends, and the media partners.

    Members of Executive are being sworn in

    Chief Guest Hon. Consul General of India in New York, Binaya S. Pradhan, in his opening Remarks, praised AIA for all that it has done for the community during its 56 years of history and commended the organization for its various achievements. He also suggested that if AIA could work on supporting the students coming from India to study here in the United States to get them internships and/or jobs, that will be very helpful. Consul General however pledged to work with AIA for outreach to the community.

    National President Gobind Munjal was sworn-in by Honorable Consul General, Binaya Pradhan ji, who also administered the oath to Vice Presidents; Uma Swaminathan (NJ), Sushma Kotahwala (NY), Dr. Yash Pal Arya (NY), Santosh Pandey (IL), Secretary Gunjan Rastogi (NY) and Treasurer Gobind Bathija (NY). He also administered the oath to the members at large from all the states, namely Anita Thakkar (NY), Aridaman Jain (NJ), Beena Kothari (NY), Indu Gajwani (NY), Jasbir Singh (NY), Manoranjan Mishra (IL), Mohinder Taneja (NY). Neelam Modi (NY), Om Dhirgra (IL), Prem Mehrotra (IL), Rajeev Chaudhary(NY), Ram Tirumala (NJ), Ramola Motwani (FL), Salil Misra (IL), Santosh Khera (CA), Satish Anand (NY), Sharmistha Dutta (FL), Shashi Malik (NY), Sujata Seth (NY), Uma Eniasivam (FL), Usha Bansal (NY), Vijay Sharma (WI).

    Gobind Munjal Addresses

    In his speech, National President Munjal welcomed everyone and shared some of the NEC’s achievements during his first term.
    o Honor Banquet and Celebration of 75th Anniversary of India’s Independence on May 6th, 2023 – attended by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer & NYC Mayor Eric Adams.
    o RESTARTED AIA National Newsletter (“BETWEEN US”) after a gap of about 20 years
    o INITIATED Investment Advisory Committee to invest life membership funds for income and long-term growth,

    Amended Bylaws of National AIA in 2023 after 30 years of gap.
    o Energized young members and made them life members
    o Energized and Improved communications between the chapters

    AIA past presidents and Gobind Munjal with the Consul General

    President also shared his Vision for the 2nd term:
    He reiterated that since the elections are over now, we will all work together as a unified team.
    In pursuing the AIA’s moto of “Indian Heritage and American Commitment”, he emphasized that:
    “We are here to serve the community needs. As we continue to direct our help to the people in India, our homeland, we should equally remain committed to the community right here in the United States, our adopted country. We hope to work towards increasing that commitment.
    As the demographic profile of the Indian American Community has changed in past 5 decades since the founding of AIA, so are their needs. We remain committed to understanding the changing requirements of the community, and then will develop Programs to help both – the Youth and the Elderly. NEC pledges support to all the Chapter Presidents and its members, so they all can build and expand on these programs across the nation. This way together, we can make the next two years most productive.
    President Munjal also shared his initiative of working on the immigration bill to reduce the time delay for Indian citizens to get the green card as well as H1 B visas. He said “AIA (NEC) is joining GOPIO International and rallying some other organizations to join us in this initiative. Today it takes almost 15 to 20 years for an Indian citizen to get a green card, whereas some other nationalities get a green card in 1 year. We all are planning to go to Washington DC sometime in the end of April 2024 to meet the congressional leaders requesting them to support this bill”
    All AIA leadership extended their good wishes and support. The program concluded with a traditional vote of thanks by the secretary.
    The Association of Indians in America (AIA) is the oldest not-for-profit organization of Asian Indians in America founded on August 20, 1967. It is the grassroots national organization of Asian immigrants in United States. With chapters and membership spread across the United States of America, AIA represents the hopes and aspirations of those immigrants who are united by their common bond of Indian Heritage and American Commitment.

    A view of the gathering
  • ALL ABOARD THE EASTER BUNNY EXPRESS

    ALL ABOARD THE EASTER BUNNY EXPRESS

    KINGSTON, NY (TIP): It’s time to Hop on Board the Catskill Mountain Railroad’s Easter Bunny Express. Enjoy a train ride along the old Catskill Mountain Branch Line and join our Easter Egg Hunt for a perfect activity that’s fun for younger children and adults of all ages. Shake off that winter chill and celebrate spring with a ride on the Easter Bunny Express. Take the trip on the historic Catskill Mountain Railroad from Kingston out to the Easter Egg Patch, enjoy some snacks, and get your photos with the Easter Bunny.

    The Catskill Mountain Railroad will be operating the Easter Bunny Express trains on Saturday March 23rd, Sunday March 24th and Saturday March 30th. All trains arrive and depart from the Westbrook Station at the Kingston Plaza. Trains leave at 10:00 AM, 12:00 Noon, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM. The complete train ride is a 90 minute experience.

    Ticket prices are Adults $23.00, Adult Discount (Seniors/Military/Veteran) $21.00 and Children $17.00, children under 2 ride on the lap ride free with paid adult fare. An adult must accompany all children. Bunny trains are for all ages; bring along the whole family. For more information and to purchase tickets please visit our website www.CatskillMountainRailroad.com, or call our office (845) 332-4854 or e-mail us at info@catskillmountainrailroad.com.