Water – Indian fusion dance at Cleveland Asian Festival

Antara Datta and students from the Anga Kala Kathak Academy performed a dance called Water that was choreographed by Antara Datta.  It is a fusion of North Indian Classical Dance and more modern dance.  They performed at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival (CAF) in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.

Final bow for Chinese Dancers at Cleveland Asian Festival

All the dancers of Rising Star Acrobatics led by Connie Zhang came onstage for a final bow at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival (CAF) in Cleveland’s AsiaTown

Peacock Chinese Dance at Cleveland Asian Festival

Classical Chinese Peacock dance by Rising Star Acrobatics led by Connie Zhang at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival (CAF) in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.  

Teen Girl and Boy Martial Arts at Cleveland Asian Festival

Martial
Arts routines by a teen girl and boy from the Great Wall Enrichment Center at
the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival (CAF) in Cleveland’s AsiaTown. This was
followed by all the students coming on stage for their final bow. 

Martial Arts at 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival

Beginners Martial Arts routine by young boys and girls from the Great Wall Enrichment Center at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival (CAF) in Cleveland’s AsiaTown. This was followed by an older boy doing more advanced routines.

Martial Arts with sticks at Cleveland Asian Festival

Martial Arts routine with sticks by boys from the Great Wall Enrichment Center at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival (CAF) in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.

Chia-Min Chen - Asian Heritage event in Cleveland City Hall

Community Relations Board Asian Liaison Chia-Min Chen spoke at the 2015 annual Asian Heritage event at Cleveland City Hall.

Chia-Min Chen - Asian Heritage event in Cleveland City Hall

Community Relations Board Asian Liaison Chia-Min Chen spoke at the 2015 annual Asian Heritage event at Cleveland City Hall.

Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson - Asian Heritage event

After spending the day in negotiations with the Department of Justice, Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson stopped in and spoke about Cleveland’s diversity at the annual Asian Heritage event at Cleveland City Hall.

Young girls and boy Martial Arts with swords at CAF

Martial Arts routine with sword by two young girls and a boy from the Great Wall Enrichment Center at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival (CAF) in Cleveland’s AsiaTown. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/asian/asian.htm and http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/chinese/chinese.htm

Young girls and boy Martial Arts with swords at CAF

Martial Arts routine with sword by two young girls and a boy from the Great Wall Enrichment Center at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival (CAF) in Cleveland’s AsiaTown. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/asian/asian.htm and http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/chinese/chinese.htm

Martial Arts with sticks - Great Wall Enrichment Center

Martial Arts routine with sticks by two young boys from the Great Wall Enrichment Center at the 6th annual CAF in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.

Martial Arts with flags - Great Wall Enrichment Center

Martial Arts routine including some with flags by young boys and girls from the Great Wall Enrichment Center at the 6th annual CAF in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.

Great Wall Enrichment Center Chinese Dancers

Chinese dance by young girls from the Great Wall Enrichment Center at the 6th annual CAF in Cleveland’s AsiaTown. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/asian/asian.htm and http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/chinese/chinese.htm

Dragon Dance performance at 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival

The Dragon Dance Team sponsored by OCA Cleveland and the Confucius Institute of Cleveland State University performed at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Dragon Dance down Payne Avenue at Cleveland Asian Festival

The Dragon Dance Team sponsored by OCA Cleveland and the Confucius Institute of Cleveland State University marched down Payne Avenue and throughout the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Dragon Dance down Payne Avenue at Cleveland Asian Festival

The Dragon Dance Team sponsored by OCA Cleveland and the Confucius Institute of Cleveland State University marched down Payne Avenue and throughout the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Dragon Dance introduction at Cleveland Asian Festival

Yin Tang and Wayne Wong introduced the Dragon Dance Team sponsored by OCA Cleveland and the Confucius Institute of Cleveland State University at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Martial Arts demo from Westlake Chinese School

Students from the Westlake Chinese School performed traditional Martial Arts moves with sticks and swords at the 6th annual CAF in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.

6 year old girls from Westlake Chinese School dance

6 year old girls from the Westlake Chinese School performed traditional Chinese dances at the 6th annual CAF in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.

Young girls Cowgirl dance from Westlake Chinese School

Young girls wearing cowgirl costumes from the Westlake Chinese School performed traditional Chinese dances at the 6th annual CAF in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.

Young girls long-sleeved dance from Westlake Chinese School

Young girls wearing costumes with long sleeves from the Westlake Chinese School performed traditional Chinese dances at the 6th annual CAF in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.

Young girls dance from Westlake Chinese School

Young girls from the Westlake Chinese School performed traditional Chinese dances at the 6th annual CAF in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.

Chinese Acrobatic Performance at Cleveland Asian Festival

Advanced Acrobatic Performance from a student of Rising Star Acrobatics led by Connie Zhang at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival (CAF) in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.  

Flowing Costumes dance from Rising Star Acrobatics

Ladies from Rising Star Acrobatics led by Connie Zhang performed a traditional Chinese acrobatic dance in flowing costumes at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival (CAF) in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.  

Young girls dance from Rising Star Acrobatics

Young girls from Rising Star Acrobatics led by Connie Zhang performed a traditional Chinese acrobatic dance in traditional costumes at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival (CAF) in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.  

Dance by 2 young ladies from Rising Star Acrobatics

2 young ladies from Rising Star Acrobatics led by Connie Zhang performed a traditional Chinese acrobatic dance in traditional costumes at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival (CAF) in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.  

Cute kids in bunny suits Rising Star Acrobatics dance

Cute kids in bunny suits from Rising Star Acrobatics led by Connie Zhang performed with a classic acrobatic dancer at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival (CAF) in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.  

Rising Star Acrobatics intro and 1st dance

Cleveland Asian Festival (CAF) MC Wayne Wong introduced the Rising Star Acrobatics led by Connie Zhang at the 6th annual CAF in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.   The students perform traditional Chinese acrobatic dances.

Martial Arts at Cleveland Asian Festival

Students of the Karate Institute of Mentor showed their martial arts skills at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Karate Institute of Mentor at Cleveland Asian Festival

Students of the Karate Institute of Mentor showed their martial arts skills at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Little Dragons of the Karate Institute of Mentor

The Little Dragons (very young kids) of the Karate Institute of Mentor showed their martial arts skills at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Vi Huynh at 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival

Cleveland
Asian Festival (CAF) MC Wayne Wong introduced Vi Huynh, one of the founders of
CAF, at the 6th annual CAF in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.   Huynh told about the reasons for the
Cleveland Asian Festival

Traditional dance from Westlake Chinese School

Dancers from the Westlake Chinese School performed traditional Chinese dances at the 6th annual CAF in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.

Traditional dance from Westlake Chinese School

Dancers from the Westlake Chinese School performed traditional Chinese dances at the 6th annual CAF in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.

Indian Bharatanatyam dance - Rhythms of Joy

Dancers from the Shri Kalaa Mandir Center for Indian Performing Arts performed a classical Bharatanatyam dance called Rhythms of Joy at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Indian Bharatanatyam dance - Rhythms of Joy

Dancers from the Shri Kalaa Mandir Center for Indian Performing Arts performed a classical Bharatanatyam dance called Rhythms of Joy at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Indian Folk dance from a Northern State with sticks

Dancers from the Shri Kalaa Mandir Center for Indian Performing Arts performed a classical dance of a Northern State using sticks at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Shri Kalaa Mandir Center Bharathanatyam dance

Dancers from the Shri Kalaa Mandir Center for Indian Performing Arts performed a Bharatanatyam dance, a classical dance of Southeast India, at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Shri Kalaa Mandir Center Bharathanatyam dance

Dancers from the Shri Kalaa Mandir Center for Indian Performing Arts performed a Bharatanatyam dance, a classical dance of Southeast India, at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Shri Kalaa Mandir Center Bharathanatyam dance

Dancers from the Shri Kalaa Mandir Center for Indian Performing Arts performed a Bharatanatyam dance, a classical dance of Southeast India, at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Bharathanatyam dance at Cleveland Asian Festival

Dancers from the Shri Kalaa Mandir Center for Indian Performing Arts performed a Bharatanatyam dance, a classical dance of Southeast India, at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Mongolian bowl dance at Cleveland Asian Festival

The Yin Tang Dance Company performed this Mongolian dance at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.  The dancers balanced a bowl on their heads simulating riding the plains of Mongolia on horseback carrying a bowl on their heads.  

Dance from NW China at Cleveland Asian Festival

The Yin Tang Dance Company performed this dance from the Northwest region of China at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

A Walk in the Spring Rain Chinese Dance at Cleveland Asian Festival

The Yin Tang Dance Company performed at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.  Yin introduced this dance as ‘A Walk in the Spring Rain’

Yin Tag’s bad joke at Cleveland Asian Festival

Yin Tang of the Yin Tang Dance Company had to stall a few minutes at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival while her dancers changed costumes.  So she came up with this groaner of a joke.

Chinese Sword Dance – Palace of the Orient

Cleveland Asian Festival (CAF) MC Wayne Wong introduced Yin Tang of the Yin Tang Dance Company at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.  Yin introduced the first dance which she choreographed with swords and is set to the song ‘Palace of the Orient.’

Grand Finale Troupe Shabaana Belly Dance at Cleveland Asian Festival

Grand finale Middle Eastern Belly Dance from Turkey and Egypt from the Troupe Shabaana dancers at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Troupe Shabaana Group Finale Belly Dance at Cleveland Asian Festival

Group finale Middle Eastern Belly Dance from Turkey and Egypt from the Troupe Shabaana dancers at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Troupe Shabaana Belly Dance at Cleveland Asian Festival

Middle Eastern Belly Dance from Turkey and Egypt from the Troupe Shabaana dancers at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Troupe Shabaana Solo Belly Dance

Middle Eastern Belly Dance from Turkey and Egypt from a solo Troupe Shabaana dancer at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Dance of the Flowers by Sho-Jo-Ji Japanese Dancers

The Sho-Jo-Ji Japanese Dancers of Cleveland’s JACL (Japanese-American's Citizen's League) have been performing since 1956.  They performed a traditional Japanese dance called Dance of the Flowers at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Moon over a Castle Dance by Sho-Jo-Ji Japanese Dancers

The Sho-Jo-Ji Japanese Dancers of Cleveland’s JACL (Japanese-American's Citizen's League) have been performing since 1956.  They performed a traditional Japanese dance about the Moon over a Castle the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Children’s animal Dance by Sho-Jo-Ji Japanese Dancers

The Sho-Jo-Ji Japanese Dancers of Cleveland’s JACL (Japanese-American's Citizen's League) have been performing since 1956.  They performed a traditional Japanese children’s dance with young children pretending to be animals at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Sakura (Cherry Blossoms) Dance by Sho-Jo-Ji Japanese Dancers

The Sho-Jo-Ji Japanese Dancers of Cleveland’s JACL (Japanese-American's Citizen's League) have been performing since 1956.  They performed a traditional Japanese dance in kimonos called Sakura (Cherry Blossoms) at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Councilwoman Yvonne Conwell at the Cleveland Asian Festival

Cuyahoga County Councilwoman Yvonne Conwell spoke at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.  She presented   Cleveland Asian Festival board member Lisa Wong with a proclamation from Cuyahoga County.

Guzheng and Ehru Duet at Cleveland Asian Festival

Rosa Lee from Rosa’s Guzheng Studio plays the guzheng, Chinese zither, and her student plays the two stringed fiddle called an Erhu at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.  

Rosa Lee on Guzheng at Cleveland Asian Festival

Rosa Lee from Rosa’s Guzheng Studio plays the Chinese zither – guzheng - at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.  

Erhu solo at Cleveland Asian Festival

A young woman from Rosa’s Guzheng Studio plays the two stringed fiddle called an Erhu at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.  

9 year old girl plays Guzheng at Cleveland Asian festival

A 9 year old girl from Rosa’s Guzheng Studio plays the Chinese zither – guzheng - at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.  She was accompanied by a two stringed fiddle called an Erhu.

Hmong Group Grand Finale Dance at Cleveland Asian Festival

Grand finale dance from the Paj Tawg Tshiab – Hmong Dance of Blooming Flowers performed at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.  

Hmong Ethnic Group Dance at Cleveland Asian Festival

Young dancers from the Paj Tawg Tshiab – Hmong Dance of Blooming Flowers performed at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.  

Paj Tawg Tshiab – Hmong Dance at Cleveland Asian Festival

Young dancers from the Paj Tawg Tshiab – Hmong Dance of Blooming Flowers performed at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.  

Hmong Dance of Blooming Flowers at Cleveland Asian Festival

Young dancers from the Paj Tawg Tshiab – Hmong Dance of Blooming Flowers performed at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.  

Hula must be the Fountain of Youth

Lynna Lai, WKYV TV3 News Anchor and Co-MC of the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival spoke to a 68 year old hula dancer from the Manivic’s Dance Company.  Lynna said that hula must be the Fountain of Youth.

68 year old does Hula Dance at Cleveland Asian Festival

A 68 year old woman from the Manivic’s Dance Company performed a Pacific Island Dance at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival in Cleveland’s AsiaTown. The Manivic’s Dance Company performs Pacific Island dances including Tahitian, Samoan, New Zealand, Hula and Philippine Folk styles.

     

Yellow pom poms Hula Dance

2 women from the Manivic’s Dance Company performed a Pacific Island Dance with yellow pomp oms at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.   The Manivic’s Dance Company performs Pacific Island dances including Tahitian, Samoan, New Zealand, Hula and Philippine Folk styles.

Tiny Bubbles Classic Hawaiian Hula Dance

Tiny Bubbles  classic Hawaiian Hula Dance at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.   The Manivic’s Dance Company performs Pacific Island dances including Tahitian, Samoan, New Zealand, Hula and Philippine Folk styles.

Pearly Shells Classic Hawaiian Hula Dance

Pearly Shells Classic Hawaiian Hula Dance at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.   The Manivic’s Dance Company performs Pacific Island dances including Tahitian, Samoan, New Zealand, Hula and Philippine Folk styles.

Manivic Pacific Island 3 woman hula Dance

3 women from the Manivic’s Dance Company performed a Pacific Island Dance at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.   The Manivic’s Dance Company performs Pacific Island dances including Tahitian, Samoan, New Zealand, Hula and Philippine Folk styles.

Pacific Island Solo Dance at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival in Cleveland’s AsiaTown. The Manivic’s Dance Company performs Pacific Island dances including Tahitian, Samoan, New Zealand, Hula and Philippine Folk styles. caf 2015 sat manivic 2

Pacific Island Solo Dance at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.   The Manivic’s Dance Company performs Pacific Island dances including Tahitian, Samoan, New Zealand, Hula and Philippine Folk styles.

Pacific Island Solo Dance at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival in Cleveland’s AsiaTown. The Manivic’s Dance Company performs Pacific Island dances including Tahitian, Samoan, New Zealand, Hula and Philippine Folk styles. caf 2015 sat manivic 2

Pacific Island Solo Dance at the 6th annual Cleveland Asian Festival in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.   The Manivic’s Dance Company performs Pacific Island dances including Tahitian, Samoan, New Zealand, Hula and Philippine Folk styles.

Lynna Lai introduces Manivic Pacific Island Dancers

Cleveland Asian Festival (CAF) MC Wayne Wong introduced his co-MC Lynna Lai, news anchor for WKYV Channel 3 TV at the 6th annual CAF in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.   Lynn Lai then introduced the Manivic’s Dance Company who performs Pacific Island dances including Tahitian, Samoan, New Zealand, Hula and Philippine Folk styles.

Brunswick Mayor Ron Falconi at 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival

Cleveland Asian Festival (CAF) MC Wayne Wong introduced Brunswick Mayor Ron Falconi at the beginning of the 6th annual CAF in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.   Mayor Falconi presented a proclamation to CAF to Executive Board member Vi Huynh.  Mayor Falconi is of Filipino heritage.

Mayor Frank Jackson at 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival

Cleveland Asian Festival (CAF) MC Wayne Wong introduced Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson at the beginning of the 6th annual CAF in Cleveland’s AsiaTown.   Mayor Jackson spoke of Cleveland’s diversity and congratulated the Festival producers, volunteers and attendees.

Troupe Shabaana at Cleveland Asian Festival 2015

Middle Eastern Belly Dance from Turkey and Egypt from a solo Troupe Shabaana dancer at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Troupe Shabaana Middle Eastern Belly Dancers

Introduction and first dance by Troupe Shabaana Middle Eastern Belly at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Solo Middle Eastern Belly Dance at Cleveland Asian Festival 2015

Middle Eastern Belly Dance from Turkey and Egypt from a solo Troupe Shabaana dancers at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Middle Eastern Belly Dance at Cleveland Asian Festival 2015

Middle Eastern Belly Dance from Turkey and Egypt from the Troupe Shabaana dancers at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

Sho-Jo-Ji Japanese Dancers at Cleveland Asian Festival 2015

The Sho-Jo-Ji Japanese Dancers of Cleveland’s JACL (Japanese-American's Citizen's League) have been performing since 1956. They performed traditional Japanese dance in kimonos at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.

.

Cleveland Asian Festival 2015 Executive Board

Cleveland Asian Festival (CAF) MC Wayne Wong introduced the 8 members of the CAF Executive Board who are responsible for the terrific annual event.  He introduced the 3 founders Vi Huynh, Johnny Wu and Lisa Wong and their fellow Exec Board members Yin Tang, Hao Zhou, Deborah Yue and Michael Mendoza.  Michael Byun is the 8th member but he could not attend.

Cleveland’s got Bollywood - Mona Khan and Janani Chalaka

Mona Khan and Janani Chalaka of the Mona Khan Company, a critically acclaimed Bollywood dance & fitness company based in the San Francisco Bay Area, spoke before their headlining weekend performances at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.  Mona Khan told of their Bollywood roots and of the experience of being chosen out of 70,000 acts across the nation to be in the Top 48 on the NBC show, America's Got Talent, Season 5!

Janani Chalaka told of the Bombay Jam fitness program which helps people get in shape while having fun learning and participating in Bollywood dance.  Both ladies told of the colorful and energetic performances that the audience would be experiencing.  

Bombay Jam Bollywood Fitness Dance Routine preview

Janani Chalaka led a group from the Mona Khan Company, a critically acclaimed Bollywood dance & fitness company based in the San Francisco Bay Area, in a preview of their Bombay Jam dance fitness routine.  The Mona Khan Company is the headliner at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival.  The Bombay Jam routine was filmed in the studios of Johnny Wu of MDI Film and Yin Tang and Jason Wang joined in on the routine.

Mona Khan Company Bollywood Dance preview

Dancers from the Mona Khan Company, a critically acclaimed Bollywood dance & fitness company based in the San Francisco Bay Area, gave a preview of their headlining performance at the 2015 Cleveland Asian Festival in the studios of Johnny Wu of MDI Film.

African American Cultural Garden – Booker Tall’s Family

Booker Tall was the driving force behind the African American Cultural Garden.  His family came on stage and spoke at the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the African American Cultural Garden in Cleveland Ohio.  The African American Cultural Garden is part of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation.

African American Cultural Garden – Rev. Hilton Smith

Reverend Hilton Smith spoke at the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the African American Cultural Garden in Cleveland Ohio.  The African American Cultural Garden is part of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation.

African American Cultural Garden – Carl Ewing

Carl Ewing, president of the African American Cultural Garden group,  spoke at the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the African American Cultural Garden in Cleveland Ohio.  The African American Cultural Garden is part of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation.

African American Cultural Garden – Cleveland Officials

Darnell Brown, Chief of Operations, and Natoya J. Walker Minor, Chief of Public Affairs of the city of Cleveland, spoke at the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the African American Cultural Garden in Cleveland Ohio.  The African American Cultural Garden is part of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation.

African American Cultural Garden – Cleveland Officials

Darnell Brown, Chief of Operations, and Natoya J. Walker Minor, Chief of Public Affairs of the city of Cleveland, spoke at the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the African American Cultural Garden in Cleveland Ohio.  The African American Cultural Garden is part of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation.

African American Cultural Garden Design Overview

Daniel Bickerstaff of Ubiquitous Designs spoke at the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the African American Cultural Garden in Cleveland Ohio. The African American Cultural Garden is part of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation. Bickerstaff explained the design of the proposed Garden.

 

Black Anthem at African American Cultural Garden

Marla Hodges-Travick of Rhema Fellowship Church sang the Black National Anthem, Lift Every Voice and Sing, at the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the African American Cultural Garden in Cleveland Ohio.  The African American Cultural Garden is part of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation.

African American Cultural Garden Design Overview

Daniel Bickerstaff of Ubiquitous Designs spoke at the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the African American Cultural Garden in Cleveland Ohio.  The African American Cultural Garden is part of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation.  Bickerstaff explained the design of the proposed Garden.

African drummers at Cleveland African American Cultural Garden

African drummers and dancers performed at the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the African American Cultural Garden in Cleveland Ohio.  The African American Cultural Garden is part of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation.

African American Cultural Garden – Susan Hall

Susan Hall of the Western Reserve Historical Society spoke at the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the African American Cultural Garden in Cleveland Ohio.  The African American Cultural Garden is part of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation.

Cleveland African American Cultural Garden Groundbreaking

Leaders and dignitaries grabbed shovels and hardhats for the Groundbreaking at the Ceremony for Phase 1 of the African American Cultural Garden in Cleveland Ohio.  The African American Cultural Garden is part of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation.

African American Cultural Garden – Dorothy Adams

Mrs. Dorothy Adams spoke at the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the African American Cultural Garden in Cleveland Ohio.  The African American Cultural Garden is part of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation.

African American Cultural Garden – Daryl Rush

City of Cleveland Community Development Director Daryl Rush spoke at the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the African American Cultural Garden in Cleveland Ohio.  The African American Cultural Garden is part of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation.

African American Cultural Garden – Jeff Johnson

Councilman Jeff Johnson spoke at the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the African American Cultural Garden in Cleveland Ohio.  The African American Cultural Garden is part of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation.

African American Cultural Garden – Kevin Conwell & Kevin Kelley

Councilman Kevin Conwell and Council president Kevin Kelley spoke at the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the African American Cultural Garden in Cleveland Ohio.  The African American Cultural Garden is part of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation.

Cleveland Cinco de Mayo - HOLA Mexican Dancers

HOLA Mexican Dancers performed a classic Mexican dance at the City of Cleveland’s 2015 Cinco de Mayo celebration in the Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall.

 

Mayor Jackson at groundbreaking of African American Cultural Garden in C...

Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson spoke at the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the African American Cultural Garden in Cleveland Ohio. The African American Cultural Garden is part of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation and the chief delegate Carl Ewing said that Mayor Jackson has been instrumental in getting the Garden to this point and will take it to the next level.

 

Cleveland Cinco de Mayo 2015 – Congressman Marcy Kaptur

Congressman Marcy Kaptur spoke at the City of Cleveland’s 2015 Cinco de Mayo celebration in the Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall.

Cleveland Cinco de Mayo 2015 – Consul of Mexico

Consul of Mexico in Detroit Juan Manuel Solana Morales spoke at the City of Cleveland’s 2015 Cinco de Mayo celebration in the Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall. He told of the 51 Mexican Consulates in the US and the first non-Consulate location at MetroHealth Hospital in Cleveland.

 

Cleveland Cinco de Mayo 2015 – Mayor Frank Jackson

Mayor Frank Jackson spoke at the City of Cleveland’s 2015 Cinco de Mayo celebration in the Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall.

Cleveland Cinco de Mayo 2015 – Lou Acosta, Blaine Griffin

Lou Acosta, MC of the Cinco de Mayo celebration in Cleveland explained the holiday at the City of Cleveland’s 2015 Cinco de Mayo celebration in the Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall.  He then introduced Community Relations Board Director Blaine Griffin who spoke of Cleveland’s diversity.  

HOLA Mexican Dancers at Cleveland Cinco de Mayo

HOLA Mexican Dancers performed a classic Mexican dance at the City of Cleveland’s 2015 Cinco de Mayo celebration in the Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall.

Santa Cecilia Mariachi Band Mexican Folk Song

The Santa Cecilia Mariachi Band performed a classic Mexican folk song at the City of Cleveland’s 2015 Cinco de Mayo celebration in the Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall.

Slavic Village recovery – a young couple moves in

At the Slavic Village press conference about the continuing redevelopment of Slavic Village and celebration of its 25th homebuyer, the homeowners spoke.  They are a young couple from rural Ohio.  Jeremy graduated from college with a teaching certificate and decided to teach at a Cleveland Public High School.  Along with his bride, Heather, they decided to buy a home in Slavic Village.  

Slavic Village recovery – Forest City Park Civic Assoc.

Chris Alvarado, Executive Director, Slavic Village Development spoke at the Slavic Village press conference about the continuing redevelopment of Slavic Village and celebration of its 25th homebuyer.   He introduced ladies from the Forest City Park Civic Association to welcome them to the neighborhood.

Slavic Village recovery – Chris Alvarado

Councilman Tony Brancatelli said our strongest partner is our development team, Slavic Village Development.  Chris Alvarado, Executive Director, Slavic Village Development spoke at the Slavic Village press conference about the continuing redevelopment of Slavic Village and celebration of its 25th homebuyer.   He said what really makes a community is neighbors.

Slavic Village recovery – Mortgage Service Industry

Robert Klein, Chairman of Community Blight Solutions, said to thank the

Mortgage Service Industry for the progress against foreclosures.  Councilman Tony Brancatelli told about the community and city partners who are helping make this work. They spoke at the Slavic Village press conference about the continuing redevelopment of Slavic Village and celebration of its 25th homebuyer.

Slavic Village recovery – Renee Csuhran, Huntington Bank

Renee Csuhran, interim President of Huntington Bank, spoke at the Slavic Village press conference about the continuing redevelopment of Slavic Village and celebration of its 25th homebuyer.   Councilman Tony Brancatelli said that in 2007 when they had the highest foreclosure rate in the US, nobody was looking to help but Huntington and the other partners are helping in the recovery.  Csuhran mentioned the partners that worked with Huntington.

Slavic Village recovery – Joel Ratner, Cleveland Neighborhood Progress

Joel Ratner, President and CEO, Cleveland Neighborhood Progress spoke at the Slavic Village press conference about the continuing redevelopment of Slavic Village and celebration of its 25th homebuyer.   He is excited about the potential of the neighborhood.

Slavic Village recovery – Albert Ratner

Albert Ratner, Chairman Emeritus, Forest City Enterprises, spoke at the Slavic Village press conference about the continuing redevelopment of Slavic Village and celebration of its 25th homebuyer.  Mr. Ratner said the young couple who moved in reminded him of his parents when they were young.

Slavic Village recovery - Tony Brancatelli and Robert Klein

Cleveland Councilman Tony Brancatelli spoke at the Slavic Village press conference about the continuing redevelopment of Slavic Village and celebration of its 25th homebuyer. He introduced Robert Klein, Chairman of Community Blight Solutions. http://www.greatlakesgeek.com/

 

Mexican Folk Song by Santa Cecilia Mariachi Band on Cinco de Mayo

The Santa Cecilia Mariachi Band performed a classic Mexican folk song at the City of Cleveland’s 2015 Cinco de Mayo celebration in the Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall.

La Bamba by Santa Cecilia Mariachi Band on Cinco de Mayo

The Santa Cecilia Mariachi Band performed the classic Mexican folk song La Bamba at the City of Cleveland’s 2015 Cinco de Mayo celebration in the Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/mexican/mexican.htm

 

La Bamba by Santa Cecilia Mariachi Band on Cinco de Mayo

The Santa Cecilia Mariachi Band performed the classic Mexican folk song La Bamba at the City of Cleveland’s 2015 Cinco de Mayo celebration in the Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/mexican/mexican.htm

 

Tony Brancatelli and Ed Rybka at Polish Constitution Day

Cleveland City Councilman Tony Brancatelli and Cleveland Chief of Regional Development Ed Rybka spoke at the Shrine Church of Saint Stanislaus during 2015 Polish Constitution Day Parade celebration in Cleveland‘s Slavic Village.

Father Naim Khalil Benediction at CAMEO’s 45th

Father Naim Khalil gave the Benediction at the 45th anniversary celebration of CAMEO at St Elias Cultural Center in Cleveland.   CAMEO stands for Cleveland American Middle East Organization, CAMEO.

Father Naim Khalil Benediction at CAMEO’s 45th

Father Naim Khalil gave the Benediction at the 45th anniversary celebration of CAMEO at St Elias Cultural Center in Cleveland.   CAMEO stands for Cleveland American Middle East Organization, CAMEO.

God Bless America at 2015 Polish Constitution Day

Eugenia Stolarczyk, Radio producer and personality for WERE 1490 Cosmo Broadcasting/Polish Program. led the crowd in God Bless America at the 2015 Polish Constitution Day Parade celebration in Cleveland‘s Slavic Village.

God Bless America at 2015 Polish Constitution Day

Eugenia Stolarczyk, Radio producer and personality for WERE 1490 Cosmo Broadcasting/Polish Program. led the crowd in God Bless America at the 2015 Polish Constitution Day Parade celebration in Cleveland‘s Slavic Village.

Pierre Bejjani at CAMEO’s 45th anniversary

CAMEO President Pierre Bejjani spoke at the 45th anniversary celebration of CAMEO at St Elias Cultural Center in Cleveland.   CAMEO stands for Cleveland American Middle East Organization, CAMEO.

Proclamations for CAMEO’s 45th anniversary

Political leaders gave proclamations to the Cleveland American Middle East Organization, CAMEO on the occasion of CAMEO celebrating its 45th anniversary at St Elias Cultural Center in Cleveland.  

Armond Budish swears in CAMEO officers

Cuyahoga County Executive Armond Budish swore in President Pierre Bejjani and the other the newly elected officers of the Cleveland American Middle East Organization, CAMEO. CAMEO celebrated its 45th anniversary at St Elias Cultural Center in Cleveland.

 

First Honorary Member of Cleveland American Middle East Organization

Yehia Shousher from Toledo was named the first ever Honorary Member of the Cleveland American Middle East Organization, CAMEO, as CAMEO celebrated its 45th anniversary at St Elias Cultural Center in Cleveland.

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CAMEO’s Abby Mina and Pierre Bejjani honor Eddie Khouri

Abdullah (Abby) Mina, former president of at the Cleveland American Middle East Organization, CAMEO, spoke about the evening’s special honoree Edward (Eddie) Khouri. Khouri was a pioneer who opened his Middle East restaurant in Cleveland in 1962 when nobody knew what hummus was. Current CAMEO president Pierre Bejjani spoke of the tributes and proclamations for Eddie Khouri as CAMEO celebrated its 45th anniversary at St Elias Cultural Center in Cleveland.

 

Fr John Ojaimi invocation at CAMEO’s 45th anniversary

Fr John Ojaimi gave the invocation at the Cleveland American Middle East Organization, CAMEO, 45th anniversary celebration at St Elias Cultural Center in Cleveland.  

Colors and Anthem at CAMEO’s 45th anniversary

The Horizon Science Academy US Army JROTC Color Guard presented the colors at the Cleveland American Middle East Organization, CAMEO, 45th anniversary celebration at St Elias Cultural Center in Cleveland. Amy George and her son and daughter sang the national anthem

 

Cleveland American Middle East Organization 45th – Brian Cummins

Tony Abdulkarim, Event Co-Chairman and 1st Vice-president of Cleveland American Middle East Organization, CAMEO, introduced Cleveland Councilman Brian Cummins as MC for the 45th anniversary celebration of CAMEO. The event was held at St Elias Cultural Center in Cleveland.

 

Cleveland American Middle East Organization 45th – Brian Cummins

Tony Abdulkarim, Event Co-Chairman and 1st Vice-president of Cleveland American Middle East Organization, CAMEO, introduced Cleveland Councilman Brian Cummins as MC for the 45th anniversary celebration of CAMEO. The event was held at St Elias Cultural Center in Cleveland.

 

Cleveland American Middle East Organization 45th - Tony Abdulkarim

Tony Abdulkarim, Event Co-Chairman and 1st Vice-president of Cleveland American Middle East Organization, CAMEO, welcomed the crowd to the 45th anniversary celebration of CAMEO.   The event was held at St Elias Cultural Center in Cleveland.

Cleveland American Middle East Organization 45th - Tony Abdulkarim

Tony Abdulkarim, Event Co-Chairman and 1st Vice-president of Cleveland American Middle East Organization, CAMEO, welcomed the crowd to the 45th anniversary celebration of CAMEO.   The event was held at St Elias Cultural Center in Cleveland.

Polish Constitution Day Parade in Cleveland‘s Slavic Village 2015

Highlights of the 2015 Polish Constitution Day Parade in Cleveland‘s Slavic Village.  Judge Ray Pianka was the Grand Marshall of the Parade.

Polish National Anthem - Constitution Day Cleveland 2015

The Polish National Anthem, Mazurek Dąbrowskiego, was sung at the 2015 Polish Constitution Day Parade celebration in Cleveland‘s Slavic Village.

 

Polish National Anthem - Constitution Day Cleveland 2015

The Polish National Anthem, Mazurek Dąbrowskiego, was sung at the 2015 Polish Constitution Day Parade celebration in Cleveland‘s Slavic Village.

 

Grand Marshall Judge Ray Pianka - Constitution Day Parade in Cleveland 2015

Judge Ray Pianka was the Grand Marshall of the 2015 Polish Constitution Day Parade in Cleveland‘s Slavic Village.  Judge Ray Pianka spoke after the Parade about the Constitution of May 3, 1791.

Grand Marshall Judge Ray Pianka - Constitution Day Parade in Cleveland 2015

Judge Ray Pianka was the Grand Marshall of the 2015 Polish Constitution Day Parade in Cleveland‘s Slavic Village.  Judge Ray Pianka spoke after the Parade about the Constitution of May 3, 1791.

How the Dutch celebrate King’s Day

Marian Brumbaugh, originally from The Hague in South Holland, told how the Dutch celebrate King’s Day in Holland.  She was at the annual King’s Day (Koningsdag) celebration in Cleveland.

She said the party is like Mardi Gras or Carnival.

How the Dutch celebrate King’s Day

Marian Brumbaugh, originally from The Hague in South Holland, told how the Dutch celebrate King’s Day in Holland.  She was at the annual King’s Day (Koningsdag) celebration in Cleveland.

She said the party is like Mardi Gras or Carnival.

Dutch eating uncooked herring for King’s Day in Cleveland

Marian Brumbaugh, originally from The Hague in South Holland, told about the Dutch National Dish, herring, at the annual King’s Day (Koningsdag) celebration in Cleveland.
She said the herring is pickled not cooked and available on street corners and all over when in season in May. People eat it whole from head to tail.

Dutch eating uncooked herring for King’s Day in Cleveland

Marian Brumbaugh, originally from The Hague in South Holland, told about the Dutch National Dish, herring, at the annual King’s Day (Koningsdag) celebration in Cleveland.
She said the herring is pickled not cooked and available on street corners and all over when in season in May. People eat it whole from head to tail.

Hip Hop artist TEO at Diversity Center event

Hip Hop artist TEO performed at the 13th Annual Walk, Rock & Run of The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio on Saturday, May 2, 2015 in front of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland. The Lake Erie Monsters official mascot, the seagull character named Sullivan C. Goal (aka "Sully") joined in.

D4L Dance Group grand finale at Walk, Rock & Run

The Dance 4 Life (D4L) Dance Group performed at the 13th Annual Walk, Rock & Run of The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio on Saturday, May 2, 2015.  They danced in front of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland.  This was their freestyle jam and grand finale.

Ladies from D4L Dance Group at Walk, Rock & Run

Ladies from D4L Dance Group performed at the 13th Annual
Walk, Rock & Run of The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio on Saturday, May
2, 2015.  They danced in front of the
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland.

D4L Dance Group at Walk, Rock & Run

Members of the D4L Dance Group performed at the 13th Annual Walk, Rock & Run of The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio on Saturday, May 2, 2015.  They danced in front of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland.

Drumline and start of 13th Annual Walk, Rock & Run

Peggy Zone Fisher, President & CEO of The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio, introduced the All City Arts Drumline who performed and then led the walkers up East 9th Street in Cleveland for the 13th Annual Walk, Rock & Run on Saturday, May 2, 2015.  It began and ended at The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland.  Walk, Rock & Run unifies communities across Northeast Ohio while raising awareness of diversity issues. Proceeds from Walk, Rock & Run directly support The Diversity Center’s in-school programming in nine Northeast Ohio counties.

Dutch King’s Day Toast in Cleveland

Peter De La Porte, Honorary Consul of the Netherlands for the state of Ohio, led the toast with Marian Brumbaugh and others of the Cleveland Dutch community at the celebration of King’s Day (Koningsdag)

Dutch national Anthem for King’s Day in Cleveland

Marian Brumbaugh, originally from The Hague in South Holland, sang the Dutch national anthem at the annual King’s Day (Koningsdag) celebration in Cleveland.



Wilhelmus van Nassouwe, usually known just as the Wilhelmus, is the national anthem of the Netherlands and is said to be the oldest national anthem in the world.

Dutch King’s Birthday in Cleveland

Peter
De La Porte, Honorary
Consul of the Netherlands for the state of Ohio, explained what King’s Day (Koningsdag)
is.  The Dutch community celebrates
King’s Day (Koningsdag) after the inauguration of King Willem-Alexander on 30
April 2013 (what was then still Queen’s Day).

The royal celebrations were first held on 31 August
1885 in honor of the birth of Queen Wilhelmina, and the Queen’s Day
(Koninginnedag) tradition was born. After Wilhelmina’s daughter (Juliana)
succeeded to the throne in 1949, the day was changed to 30 April in accordance
with the new Queen's birthday.