Desi Talk

www.desitalk.com – that’s all you need to know NATIONAL AFFAIRS 6 CITY VIEWS January 31, 2025 J Group Corp. Holds High-Profile Ribbon-Cutting For Iconic Holiday Inn Plainview J Group Corp., headed by Shudh Prakash Singh and his son Sartaj Singh, which acquired the Holiday Inn Plainview Long Island, in June 2024, for $21 million, held its ‘Grand Opening” with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and reception that was attended by some high-profile guests. The hotel is an iconic landmark located on the Long Island Expressway Service Road, Exit 46. The property has been extensively renovated since being acquired. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on January 26, 2025, to make it coincide with India’s 76th Republic Day. Close to 200 people came to celebrate the opening. “We are making a lot of changes. We have renovated the restaurant, bar, banquet and meeting space. Our goal is to give the best amenities to guests out of any hotel on Long Island with the most competitive rates,” Shudh Singh and Sar- taj Singh are quoted saying at the event. A number of town officials joined in for the ribbon cutting, among them Congressman Tom Suozzi, D-NY, Nas- sau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Comptroller of NewYork State Tom DiNapoli, Chairman of Nassau County Re- publican Party Joseph Cairo, Supervisor of Town of Oyster Bay Joseph Saladino, and Mayor of Glen Cove Pamela Panzenbeck. “On behalf of all the residents of Nassau County, I want to congratulate you and wish you prosperity and good health. May god bless us all and God bless America,” Blakeman said at the event. Since the hotel is only minutes away from all the temples, gurdwaras, mosques, churches and the town of Hicksville, which is referred to popularly as “Little India,” the company believes it is well- positioned to be a useful facility for the Indian Americans and the diverse com- munities, planning to host events or stay at the hotel. PHOTOS: J Group Corp. January 26, 2025 ribbon cutting ceremony for the Holiday Inn, Plainview, NY. Seen in photo are Tom Suozzi, Pam Suozzi, Bruce Blakeman, Shudh Singh, Sartaj Singh, Remo Bala, Surjit Kaur, among others. Tom DiNapoli, Joseph Saladino, Shudh Singh, Surjit Kaur, Sartaj Singh, Remo Bala, Sara Timsah, Simren Singh, Priya Jain at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Holiday Inn Plainsview, Jan. 26, 2025. By a StaffWriter The Obama Foundation Is Now Accepting Applications For The 2025-2027 Voyager Scholarship, A Program Supporting Public Service CHICAGO – January 23, 2025 T he Obama Foundation has offi- cially opened applications for the 2025-2027 Voyager Scholarship, also known as the Obama-Chesky Scholarship for Public Service. Funded by a $100 million contribution from Airbnb CEO and Co-Founder Brian Chesky, this prestigious scholarship aims to support 100 college students committed to pursu- ing careers in public service. The Voyager Scholarship offers sig- nificant benefits, including financial aid, travel-based learning experiences, and access to a global network of mentors and leaders. Designed to alleviate the burden of college debt and empower future lead- ers, the program encourages recipients to address complex global challenges through public service and community engagement. Key Benefits of the Voyager Scholar- ship: Financial Aid: Students receive up to $50,000 in financial support—$25,000 per year—during their junior and senior years of college. Summer Voyage: A $10,000 stipend and free Airbnb housing enable students to design and pursue a summer work-travel experience in their chosen field between their junior and senior years. In 2024, Voy- ager recipients explored 63 countries and 33 U.S. states, engaging in internships, volunteer work, and research. 10-Year Travel Stipend: Graduates receive a $2,000 annual travel credit from Airbnb for 10 years, totaling $20,000, to continue exploring new communities and building connections. Monthly Virtual Sessions: Students participate in workshops, mentorship roundtables, and leadership program- ming to enhance their skills and maximize their scholarship experience. Fall Summit: Junior-year recipients have the option to attend an in-person event, where they engage in community- building activities and interact with public service leaders. Network of Leaders: Recipients gain access to the Voyager network, which includes fellow scholars, mentors, and Obama Leadership Network alumni, as well as post-graduation resources from the Obama Foundation. The scholarship program, now in its fourth year, reflects the shared vision of the Obama Foundation and Brian Chesky to inspire young leaders to bridge divides and contribute meaningfully to society. By fostering curiosity, leadership, and a commitment to service, the Voyager Scholarship prepares students to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges. Application Details: The deadline to apply is April 1, 2025, at 11:59 PM CDT (UTC-6). Eligible students from colleges and universities across the United States and its territories are encouraged to apply. For more information, including the application process and frequently asked questions, visit voyager-scholarship. obama.org. ByVoyager Scholarship Photo:Obama.org Obama Foundation announcement.