Fremont dinner celebrates diversity - A report by Jennifer Carnig, The Argus January 21, 2002

FREMONT -- It's a party of sorts and it's celebrating the city of Fremont.
"This community really is amazing," said Unity Dinner 2002 organizer Jeevan Zutshi. "There has been no backlash whatsoever since Sept. 11 and I am proud of that. So we are celebrating the togetherness that this diverse community has demonstrated."
On Friday, Zutshi and his organization, the Indo-American Community Federation, are honoring the city of Fremont for that accomplishment. Unity Dinner 2002 is an evening of gourmet food, music and conversation celebrating the "tolerance, mutual respect and understanding" that is shown in Fremont among all communities, Zutshi said.
Members of several local Indo-American organizations will be in attendance, as well as city and school officials, local politicians and members of other cultural and ethnic groups.
"It's about bringing the whole city together," Zutshi said.
"Everyone's invited."
While the event has been organized in direct response to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, Zutshi said he hopes the dinner can become an annual event.
"It would be a great way to set the tone for the new year, to remind people to maintain these great relationships that we have here," he said.
Some of the 150 seats still are available for the dinner, but Zutshi said they wouldn't be for long. Cost to attend is $35 per person, $60 per couple, $250 for a table of 10 and $400 for a special VIP table.
Entertainment will be provided by Indian artist melody Queen Alka Bhatnagar and the Sargam orchestra.
"Hopefully everyone who comes will leave with a feeling of warmth and togetherness," Zutshi said.