American Punjabi Society’s First Annual Picnic Celebrates Unity and Joy in Long Island

Volunteers and community leaders of the American Punjabi Society were recognized during the First Annual APS Picnic at Wantagh Park, Long Island, for their dedication and service to the community.| Photo Credit: American Punjabi Society (APS)

The American Punjabi Society (APS) hosted its First Annual Picnic on August 17, 2025, at Wantagh Park, Long Island, NY, bringing together families, friends, and community members for a day of joy, culture, and camaraderie. The event was marked by laughter, lively activities, and a true celebration of unity, reflecting APS’s mission to strengthen community bonds through shared experiences. Guests enjoyed a vibrant array of traditional Punjabi delicacies and festive favorites, while music, dance, and sports kept spirits high. Children especially delighted in sack races, cricket, and face painting, while Mr. Jasbir Singh Japra treated them to ice cream and fresh sugar cane, adding a traditional sweet touch. The intergenerational spirit of the gathering was evident as youth and seniors alike joined in the festivities.

A highlight of the picnic was the recognition of volunteers who had played a pivotal role in the highly successful APS Blood Drive held at AsaMai Temple on August 10, 2024. Citations were presented by Hon. Joseph Saladino, Town Supervisor of Oyster Bay, acknowledging their dedication to public service and their life-saving contributions. The Blood Drive had been organized in partnership with New York Cancer and Blood Specialists, led by Dr. Tarun Wasil, the New York Blood Center, AAPI–QLI, and AsaMai Temple. Dr. Wasil, who led the medical team at the drive, was among the first attendees of the picnic, exemplifying his continued commitment to the community.

The APS Women’s Council and Youth Wing volunteers come together at the First Annual APS Picnic at Wantagh Park, Long Island, showcasing teamwork and leadership that made the event a resounding success.| Photo Credit : American Punjabi Society (APS)

The event 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 others. Town Clerk Ragini Srivastava of North Hempstead attended as a special guest, commending the APS Women’s Council for their leadership and dedication. She praised the organization for fostering empowerment and unity, emphasizing that events like these not only provide joy but also strengthen cultural and social bonds.

Much of the event’s success was credited to the vision of APS President Gary Sikka and the tireless leadership of Ms. Navneet Sondhi, Chair of the APS Women’s Council, along with her team and enthusiastic youth volunteers. The APS Youth Wing, led by Director Ms. Janessa Sondhi, played a vital role in ensuring smooth operations. Volunteers including Ms. Priyanka Khanna, Ms. Shweta Malhotra, Ms. Harleen Jolly, Ms. Dilsheet Kaur, Ms. Taranjeet Ahuja, Ms. Swati Anand, and Ms. Guntaj Arora were recognized for their commitment, embodying APS’s values of teamwork and hospitality.

Reflecting on the day, President Gary Sikka expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating, “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 joins a growing calendar of annual events organized by the society, which includes the Blood Drive, Cancer Awareness Walk, Vaisakhi Celebration, and Annual Gala. Through each initiative, APS continues to uphold its mission of service, unity, and cultural pride, creating memorable gatherings that strengthen and celebrate community spirit.