Report from Cynthia James
Daijiworld Media Network - Dallas (SP)

Dallas, Jul 30: GEMs of Texas, an organization of Goan, East Indian and Mangalorean Christians in the Dallas-Fort Worth area of Texas, is an integrated organization of communities, brought together for the common purposes of retaining, imparting, sharing, promoting and enjoying their cultural heritage, with their children, with each other and the American community as a whole. It aims at supporting these communities through various means like celebrating and strengthening religious Christian convictions and also by striving to alleviate the hardships of those from these communities who come seeking help.

The organization aims to host 'Aamchi maathi, Aamchi Rithi', a cultural event meant to showcase the rich heritage and talents of the community members, on the occasion of the 10th anniversary year of the organization on Saturday August 16. This will be the very first variety showcase event being organized by it. An original multi-lingual Tiatr - 'Alfred, Alston ani Anthony', variety of dances like Manddo, Kunnbi, Corrodinho, Mangalorean dance medley and performances by choral singing  groups, will be staged on the occasion.

The programme will be organized on August 16 from 4 pm onwards at All Saints Catholic School, Dallas. Admission charges will be $6 for GEMs of Texas members (Six years and above) and $8 for non-member guests (six years and above). There will be no admission charges for children upto five years of age. Snacks will be available for purchase at the concession stands put up at the venue. No tickets would be sold at the events and all admissions will be through a pre-paid reservation, to be booked on or before August 10, 2008, the organization has informed.

For more details, interested persons may contact gemsoftexas@yahoo.com.