SEE CHRIS' COMMENTS BELOW;
\
----- Original Message -----
From: "Gilbert Lawrence" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: <goanet@goanet.org>
Sent: Wednesday, September 14, 2005 11:20 PM
Subject: [Goanet] Re: Goans in USA
Hi Tony,
Thanks for responding to my post on the above subject. Beyond the
superficial, we agree a lot. We both emphasize the need to maintain strong
family and community ties, which as you have shown really helps in the
time of
a crises. So, if one lives in Paradise of Toledo, Ohio, or in the Big
Easy
of New Orleans, one then needs to make the effort and the trip to the big
cities to connect on a regular basis with family, friends and community
both
for mutual benefit and to expose the kids to Goan culture. Yet, the
efforts
have to be a two way street.
To move the concept of Goan interactions further, I would suggest that
city/state Goan associations should develop Regional Goan association
which
can then coordinate through a national body. This structure is used by
many
social organizations (Sons Of Italy or German American Club) as well as
many
professional organizations.
While every city/ state organization cannot celebrate all the Goan
festivities, coordination within their region will permit one or another
celebration in the area about once a month. This may be to celebrate
Blessed
Joseph Vaz feast or a carnival or a Divali. I have previously posted in
cyberGoa a list of about 10-12 Goa-specific celebrations, throughout the
year.
CHRIS COMMENTS;
Could you forward details re your suggestionsof Goa-specific celebrations
since I mjust have missed them. As a member of FRIENDS OF GOA NY/NJ I
would like to include these in our forthcoming programs.
GILBERT CONTINUES--
To encourage individuals to make the long ride and participate, when
outsiders
come, their efforts should be appreciated and they should be especially
welcomed at the social events. This, rather than the same old native
groups
confining themselves to their old cliques. That is where the committee
members
can help. After all, what goes around comes around.
You may have seen my post congratulating the New England Goans for
specifically inviting ALL Goans to their recent picnic. And this for the
entrance price of: Bring your own fun, excitment, food and drinks.
CHRIS CONTINUES--
We did something akin to what you describe at our Manoher Beach Park in Long
Island World Goa Day Picnic. The response and participation exceed all of
our expectations.
Regards
CHRIS VAZ
When
regional organizations cooperate, these celebrations can be posted well in
advance for all to enter the dates on their calendar of social
engagements.
Kind Regards, GL
