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NORTH AMERICAN Newsline SEPTEMBER 26, 2025 | The Indian Eye 16
John Skillman & Sam Gupta’s Visit to I Love
Sai Temple Illuminates Community Spirit
OUR BUREAU tude. As attendees gathered in the temple’s wel- “step up and take care of people” in challenging
coming halls, the air was filled with anticipation. times.
Chicago, IL
The program began with a reflection on the tem- The temple’s commitment to service is deeply
n a crisp Saturday evening, September 13, ple’s origins, a story that resonates deeply with inspired by the teachings of Shirdi Sai Baba, who
2025, the I Love Sai Temple at 30 N Wash- its mission. “Baba chose this place,” Vijaya Bhat- preached the importance of charity and communi-
Oington St, Carpentersville, IL, buzzed with taram (Director I Love Sai Carpentersville) noted, ty. This philosophy was evident in every aspect of
warmth and camaraderie as the community wel- recalling how the property was acquired in 2018. the event, from the shared stories of overcoming
comed special guests: John Skillman, the Village “We didn’t know much about Carpentersville then, adversity to the tangible contributions the temple
President of Carpentersville with Village Trustee but once we settled here, we found a communi- has made to Carpentersville.
Sam Gupta. From 7:00 pm to 7:30 pm, the temple, ty that embraced us like family.” The speaker’s Sam Gupta, a key community figure, Village
a radiant hub of spiritual and charitable endeav- words painted a vivid picture of a small town with Trustee and long-time supporter of the temple,
ors, hosted an event that celebrated not only its a big heart, likening Carpentersville to a charming was also honored. Srini Bhattaram (alumni from
achievements but also the enduring partnership European village, complete with the serene beau- Same University as Gupta) added, “Gupta’s con-
between the temple and the village. The gath- ty of the Fox River and the warmth of its residents. tributions extended beyond moral support”. His
ering was a testament to the power of collective expertise was instrumental in securing a signifi-
effort, resilience, and the shared vision of giving John Skillman, who has served as Village cant property tax exemption for the temple, sav-
back to the community—a vision deeply rooted in President for eight years, took the stage ing thousands of dollars that were redirected to
the teachings of Sai Baba and embodied by the community initiatives. “Anything we save, we give
temple’s tireless supporters. to a round of applause. His presence was back,” Srini Bhattaram emphasized, reinforcing
The I Love Sai Temple, nestled in the heart more than ceremonial—it was a symbol of the temple’s commitment to reinvesting in Car-
of Carpentersville, has become a cornerstone of pentersville.
the community since its inception. Established the deep bond between the temple and the Srini Bhattaram (Director I Love Sai Carpen-
under the divine guidance of Sai Baba, who chose village. “I’m honored to be here,” Skillman tersville) also highlighted a recent collaboration
this location in January 2018, the temple has with the Rotary Club, facilitated by Sam Gupta’s
transformed a once-unfamiliar plot into a sacred began, his voice carrying the sincerity of (also a Carpentersville Rotary Board Member)
space that radiates peace, charity, and unity. The a leader who has witnessed the temple’s personal support. “John and Sam welcomed us
journey to its opening was not without challeng- into their meetings,” they shared, “allowing us to
es—COVID-19 lockdowns, bureaucratic hurdles, growth from its earliest days. present our work and connect with the broader
and unforeseen delays tested the resolve of its community.” This partnership has opened doors
founders. Yet, through the unwavering leadership “You’ve been great neighbors, giving back to for further outreach, ensuring that the temple’s
of individuals like John Skillman, Village Board the community in ways that make us all proud.” charitable efforts continue to grow. The applause
and the collective spirit of the village, the temple His words underscored the temple’s impact, from that followed was a collective acknowledgment of
opened its doors nearly three years ago, becoming providing over 100,000 meals to local residents in Gupta’s impact, a reminder that every individual’s
a beacon of hope and service. recent years to fostering partnerships with organi- contribution strengthens the whole. “Let’s keep
The evening’s event was a vibrant celebra- zations like the Rotary Club. Skillman’s humility up the good work,” Gupta urged, his words met
tion of this journey, marked by heartfelt speeches, shone through as he acknowledged the potential with enthusiastic applause.
shared memories, and a palpable sense of grati- for even greater collaboration, urging everyone to --Asian Media USA
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