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www.desitalkchicago.com – that’s all you need to know 15 CITY VIEWS October 3, 2025 Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi’s US Senate Run Gets Dozen More Important Endorsements O n September 25, 2025, a dozen current and former elected leaders from across the Quad Cities region announced their endorsement of Raja Krishnamoorthi for U.S. Senate, add- ing to his growing list of downstate support- ers. The newly announced endorsements include Alderpersons, Township Supervisors, and County officials, a press release from Krishnamoorthi’s cam- paign noted. “Regions like the Quad Cities are the engine of Illinois — hardworking communities that drive our economy and reflect the values that make this state great,” Krishnamoorthi said. “That’s why I was proud to kick off my listening tour right here in Moline, to hear directly from the families and small businesses powering our future. I’m honored to have earned the support of local leaders from across Rock Island County, and look forward to working with them to deliver for all of Illinois as our next Senator.” Those who endorsed the Indian American running for the US Senate, praised Krishnamoorthi for being “a thoughtful, principled public servant” who, “under- stands the concerns of everyday Illinoisans and knows how to turn those concerns into action inWashington,” and someone who “truly understands downstate Il- linois.” Other leaders said Krishnamoorthi, “knows how to listen to working families, turn their concerns into action, and deliver solutions that matter,” and one of them said, “In Raja, we have a candidate who sees Illinois as more than just its biggest cities. He comes from a place like ours and never lost sight of what it means to serve communities that far too often get overlooked.” • New Quad Cities endorsements include: • Rock Island County Treasurer Nick Camlin • Blackhawk Township Supervisor & Rock Island County Board Member Chuck Layer • Rock Island Township Supervisor John Brandmeyer • South Rock Island Township Supervisor Grace Diaz Shirk • Moline Township Supervisor Bonnie Johnson • Hampton Township Supervisor Gail McIntyre • Moline Alderperson James Patrick Schmidt • Moline Alderperson Matt Timion • Moline Alderperson Dan McNeil • Rock Island Township Trustee Vince Thomas • Former Rock Island County Treasurer Louisa Ewert • Former Rock Island County Board Chair Jim Bohn- sack These officials join a growing roster of Quad Cities leaders supporting Raja — including Moline Mayor Sangeetha Rayapati and former Congressman Phil Hare, both of whom hosted Raja to kick off his Summer Listening Tour in Moline. By a StaffWriter PHOTO:Postedto Facebookaccountof Krishnamoorthi on Sept.27 New endorsements for Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi’s US Senate run, announced September 27, 2025. Overseas Friends Of BJP-Chicago, NRIs Celebrate 75th Birthday Of India’s PM Modi I ndian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthday was celebrated with gusto by supporters in the diaspora at the event hosted by Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP)–Chicago at India Hub, September 21, 2025. Modi’s birthday falls on September 17. The event also honored Vishwakarma Jayanti and Telangana Day. More than 100 community members participated in the program, offering prayers and warm wishes for Prime Minister Modi’s good health, long life, and continued global leadership. His extraor- dinary journey – from humble beginnings as the son of a tea-seller in Gujarat to be- coming one of the world’s most respected leaders – was celebrated as a true story of inspiration, dedication, and national pride. The gathering paid special tribute to Hasmukh Patel, who has served as a karyakarta of the BJP Pariwar for more than 50 years – first in Ahmedabad, Gujarat (1970–1985) and later in Chicago, USA (1985–2025). He was honored for his unwavering dedication, loyalty, and decades-long contribution to strengthen- ing the party and the diaspora. Many respected leaders and communi- ty members attended, including eminent physician & community leader Dr. Bharat Barai; Amar Upadhyay– Senior OFBJP leader; Rakesh Malhotra– OFBJP repre- sentative; as well as Shailesh Rajput, Rohit Joshi, Hemant Patel, among others. Speakers highlighted PMModi’s work as transformative- from Startup India and Make in India, to Fit India, Jan Dhan Yojana, and programs that connect NRIs with India’s growth story. They empha- sized how his leadership has elevated India’s global standing, fostered pride among NRIs, and strengthened the bond between Bharat and its diaspora. “Prime Minister Modi Ji has redefined leadership by combining ancient Indian values with modern global vision. He has instilled pride in every Indian, whether living in Bharat or abroad. Under his guidance, India is seen as a rising power, a dependable partner, and a beacon of democracy. On his 75th birthday, we pray for his health and strength to continue serving our nation and the world,” Dr. Barai said in his speech. “Prime Minister Modi Ji is a leader who has raised India’s stature globally. His 75 years are a journey of inspiration – from a chaiwala’s stall to the world stage – re- minding us that with dedication, vision, and values, anything is possible,” said Rakesh Malhotra. Hasmukh Patel said, “For over five de- cades, I have worked within the BJP Pari- war in India and the U.S. To be honored today, in the name of Narendra Bhai, is my life’s proudest moment. This recognition is not just for me, but for every karyakarta who serves selflessly.” About Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP – USA)The Overseas Friends of BJP is a global organization with 20 active chap- ters across the United States. Its mission is to enhance India’s image worldwide and promote community initiatives. By Bhailal M. Patel PHOTOS:ORGANIZERS The members of the Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) – Chicago Chapter celebrated the 75th birthday of India’s Prime Minister Narendrabhai Damodardas Modi. Amar Upadhyay – Senior OFBJP leader welcoming members of the Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) – Chicago Chapter