Young performers celebrated Sri Lankan heritage through dance, music and colorful costumes at the College of Staten Island. The Oct. 17 concert featured 24 performances, including singing, dancing, piano playing and a cultural skit. The fundraiser supported Mahamevnawa Buddhist Meditation Center of New York, which hopes to raise $1.5 million. Organizers want a larger, permanent facility in Port Richmond, with classrooms and dedicated space for children and youth. The center began in 2015 with gatherings in rented community halls and now serves more than 500 people.
