The Dream Team and the Other Dream Team

Dan Hanson told the story of the 1988 and 1992 Olympic Basketball games.

In 1988 in Seoul the USSR led by pro players (including Lithuanian NBA stars Arvydas Sabonis and Šarūnas Marčiulionis) defeated the US team of college players.

The rules changed and in 1992 the Dream Team of Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, Karl Malone, Magic Johnson and others defeated everyone to reclaim the gold.

By 1992 the USSR had fallen and Lithuania had its own team which captured the bronze in Barcelona.  They wore tie-dye uniforms in their flag color designed by the Grateful Dead.  They were the Other Dream Team.

Dan spoke at the ClevelandPeople.Com Passport Adventure to Lithuania at the Cleveland Lithuanian Club.  The Passport Adventurers visit traditional ethnic restaurants and showcases the food, culture, history of the country – in this case Lithuania.  


More on Lithuanians in Cleveland

History of Lithuanian Club in Cleveland

Ruta Degutis gave a history of Lithuanian Club in Cleveland.

It was started in 1920 at East 67th and Superior where their church, St George, was founded.  It has moved a few times and now is on East 185th Street in Cleveland.

 Ruta spoke at the ClevelandPeople.Com Passport Adventure to Lithuania at the Cleveland Lithuanian Club.  The Passport Adventurers visit traditional ethnic restaurants and showcases the food, culture, history of the country – in this case Lithuania.

Lithuanians in Cleveland

Ruta and the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania

Ruta Degutis of the Lithuanian Club of Cleveland told about her trip to the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania.

Estimates say over 100,000 crosses were there in 2006 and it keeps growing.

Ruta spoke at the ClevelandPeople.Com Passport Adventure to Lithuania at the Cleveland Lithuanian Club. The Passport Adventurers visit traditional ethnic restaurants and showcases the food, culture, history of the country – in this case Lithuania.

More on Cleveland Lithuanians

The Hill of Crosses in Lithuania

Joseph Meissner told the history of the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania.

It is believed that the first crosses were placed there after the 1831 Uprising. Over the generations, not only crosses, but giant crucifixes, carvings of Lithuanian patriots, statues of the Virgin Mary and thousands of tiny effigies and rosaries have been brought here by Catholic pilgrims.  Estimates say over 100,000 crosses were there in 2006 and it keeps growing.

Meissner spoke at the ClevelandPeople.Com Passport Adventure to Lithuania at the Cleveland Lithuanian Club.  The Passport Adventurers visit traditional ethnic restaurants and showcases the food, culture, history of the country – in this case Lithuania.

More on Lithuanians in Cleveland

Jadwiga (Hedwig)’s place in Lithuanian and Polish history

Joseph Meissner told the story of Jadwiga, aka Hedwig who was a leader of Lithuania and Poland as a teenage girl.  She was later canonized by the Catholic Church.

He spoke at the ClevelandPeople.Com Passport Adventure to Lithuania at the Cleveland Lithuanian Club.  The Passport Adventurers visit traditional ethnic restaurants and showcases the food, culture, history of the country – in this case Lithuania.

http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/lithuanian/lithuanian.htm

Possibility of Russian Aggression in Baltics

Ambassador Ginte Damusyte-Damusis was the keynote speaker at the 98th Anniversary of the Lithuanian Declaration of Independence Program in Cleveland.

She was asked about the mood and possible fears in the Baltics about the current Russian policies.
She told how many have now had a taste of democratic life and are concerned about a return to Soviet era control.

http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/lithuanian/lithuanian.htm

Lithuania joining NATO

Ambassador Ginte Damusyte-Damusis was the keynote speaker at the 98th Anniversary of the Lithuanian Declaration of Independence Program in Cleveland.

She spoke of what it meant for Lithuania to become part of NATO. She called it one of the most important days in Lithuanian history.

http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/lithuanian/lithuanian.htm

Lithuania diaspora

Ambassador Ginte Damusyte-Damusis was the keynote speaker at the 98th Anniversary of the Lithuanian Declaration of Independence Program in Cleveland.

She spoke of diaspora of Lithuanians around the world.  The generation of Displaced Persons who left after the war is dying off and there is an interest from the younger people.

http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/lithuanian/lithuanian.htm

Energy Independence in Lithuania

Ambassador Ginte Damusyte-Damusis was the keynote speaker at the 98th Anniversary of the Lithuanian Declaration of Independence Program in Cleveland. She spoke of the improvement since the Soviet Union era specifically in the energy sector.

Lithuania had been dependent on Russian oil and gas but is moving toward energy independence.  This is especially important now as Russia uses energy for political influence.

http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/lithuanian/lithuanian.htm

Keeping Lithuanian alive during Soviet era

Before she worked with the Lithuanian Diplomatic Service, Ginte Damusyte-Damusis headed the Lithuanian Information Center during the Soviet Union times.

The goal was to keep Lithuanian alive internationally and deal with human rights and other issues and tell the world of the mass public support for the Sąjūdis (Movement).

She told of the progress since the reestablishment of independence.

http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/lithuanian/lithuanian.htm

First woman ambassador in NATO history

Ginte Damusyte-Damusis has served as Ambassador from Lithuania to Austria, Slovakia, Slovenia, Croatia and Canada. Currently she is director of the department in charge of diaspora affairs in Vilnius, Lithuania.

She was the keynote speaker at the 98th Anniversary of the Lithuanian Declaration of Independence Program in Cleveland.

She told ClevelandWomen.Com about breaking the glass ceiling in the diplomacy world.

See more at http://www.clevelandwomen.com/

and

http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/lithuanian/lithuanian.htm

Kurentovanje Festival in Slovenian National Home

After the 4th annual Cleveland Kurentovanje parade, people moved into the Slovenian National Home to continue the celebration.

Here are the Princess and Prince of Kurentovanje

Pictures and videos from the 2016 Kurentovanje Festival in Cleveland

Kurentovanje Parade - Cleveland 2016

The 4th annual Cleveland version of the most popular carnival in Slovenia - Kurentovanje - began with a parade. The units gathered at Sterle's on East 55th and marched up St Clair to the Slovenian National Home.

Kurentovanje is a cultural event which connects ethnology, culture, arts, and people from all over Europe. It has been celebrated in Slovenia for the past 50 years. The central figure of the carnival, the Kurent, is believed to chase away winter and usher in spring with its supernatural powers.

Kurentovanje has a Mardi Gras feel so many participants wore masks to help scare away winter.

Lots of pictures from Kurentovanje

Here is a video of parade highlights

Doctor Who fan film by Johnny Wu

Star Wars, Cosplay, Superman, Doctor Who, X-Men – what do they have in common?

Filmmaker Johnny Wu explains why both Asian and Western cultures have larger than life characters or superheroes.

He also talks about his popular Dr. Who fan film series called Trace: The Doctor.  Search YouTube for Trace the Doctor to watch the episodes.

Watch Episode 1

The making of Fan Films – interview with Johnny Wu

Filmmaker Johnny Wu explains what a fan film is using as an example his Doctor Who fan film called TRACE: The Doctor.

 He is teaching others how to make fan films at the Wizard World Comic Con in Cleveland.

See more at GreatLakesGeek.com

More on Johnny Wu

2016 Kurentovanje Parade in Cleveland

Some highlights of the 2016 Kurentovanje Parade in Cleveland.

Lots of scary Kurents, polka music, Slovenian groups and others.
They marched up St Clair to the Slovenian National Home.

See more of Slovenians in Cleveland and more Kurentovanje highlights

No Beer Today- Kurents polka at Cleveland Kurentovanje

The Chardon Polka Band played “No Beer Today” while some of the Kurents from the Cleveland Slovenian Kurentovanje Parade and Festival danced.

Cleveland Slovenian Kurentovanje Parade and Festival

Kurents dance polka at Cleveland Kurentovanje

The Chardon Polka Band played “In Heaven there is no beer” while some of the Kurents from the Cleveland Slovenian Kurentovanje Parade and Festival danced.

Cleveland Slovenian Kurentovanje celebration 2016

Cleveland Black History Month - Elders and young people

Before the 42nd annual Black History Month Flag Raising Ceremony in the Cleveland City Hall Rotunda, Amir Khalid Samad of Peace in the Hood gathered some of the elders and the next generation to the front of the room.

He spoke of the intergenerational theme of the ceremony and how we should learn from the elders who have been through so much.
That goes with the motto “Each one, teach one. Each one, reach one.”

See more Black History Month

Cleveland Cultural Gardens to celebrate 100th year

For Immediate Release

February 1, 2016

Cleveland, OH – 100 years ago in 1916 the first garden in what would become the Cleveland Cultural Gardens was dedicated. Known today as the British Cultural Garden, its dedication in April of 1916 hosted members of the British Royal Family, unveiled a bust of Shakespeare, and presented literary works of English authors.

Under the shepherding of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation (CCGF) there are now 29 unique nationality gardens (and more in the works) on over 250 acres along MLK and East Boulevards. 

The motto of the CCGF is “Peace through Mutual Understanding” and each garden and the Gardens as a whole exemplify peace and understanding through each nationality sharing its achievements and contributions to the betterment of society. Within the gardens are numerous depictions of significant personalities in the pursuit of peace: Gandhi, Mother Teresa, Confucius; music: Liszt, Beethoven, Bach; literature: Shakespeare, James Joyce, Mark Twain; and sciences: Tesla, Leonardo DaVinci, Madame Currie among many others. It is through this recognition of each culture’s contributions that real understanding among diverse people can take place.

The City of Cleveland is joining the CCGF in making the Centennial celebration a true representation of the wonderful ethnic diversity that makes Cleveland so great.  From the initial Gala celebration on April 8, 2016 to the 71st annual One World Day in the Gardens on August 28, 2016, there will be numerous events for the community to celebrate this truly unique milestone.

Along with the city, many civic-minded institutions and foundations will help the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation celebrate this once in a lifetime anniversary.  The CCGF is announcing a Centennial Campaign to raise an initial $750,000.   The long term goals are to create an ongoing Endowment Fund to help maintain and grow the gardens for the next hundred years. The funds will be used for restoration, improvements, and to focus on the mission of the gardens, Peace Through Mutual Understanding.

The centerpiece of this legacy project will be the construction of a Centennial Plaza to be located at the midway point of the gardens. It will feature a large open plaza for performances and gatherings with a special monument dedicated to the many ethnic communities that preserved the legacy of the cultural gardens for a hundred years and to those who will carry on the tradition for the next 100 years.

This special year allows for a variety of ways others can become involved. Details can be found at http://www.clevelandculturalgardens.org/centennial-celebration/. 

Contact

Cleveland Cultural Gardens
President Sheila Murphy Crawford    sheilacrawford99@gmail.com 440 668-5651 cell

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67th Republic Day of India FICA is an organization dedicated to serving the needs of the Asian Indian Community in Northeast Ohio. From its humble beginnings as a student association in 1962, it has grown to be the voice of a diaspora of over 20,000 and on the increase. FICA helps Asian Indian families assimilate into the mosaic of greater Cleveland. FICA hosts an annual event to celebrate Republic Day. The event, dinner and performances took place on Saturday January 23, 2016 with the theme of Solidarity in Diversity.

FICA is an organization dedicated to serving the needs of the Asian Indian Community in Northeast Ohio. From its humble beginnings as a student association in 1962, it has grown to be the voice of a diaspora of over 20,000 and on the increase. FICA helps Asian Indian families assimilate into the mosaic of greater Cleveland.

FICA hosts an annual event to celebrate Republic Day. The event, dinner and performances took place on Saturday January 23, 2016 with the theme of Solidarity in Diversity.

Lots of photos and videos from Republic Day

Patriotic Indian Songs by Bharat Kumar at Republic Day

Bharat Kumar sang patriotic Indian songs at the 67th Republic Day of India celebration put on by FICA, Federation of India Community Associations of North East Ohio.


2016 Republic Day of India Celebration

Award for Resiliency at Republic Day

Sujata Lakhe Barnard, president of FICA, Federation of India Community Associations of North East Ohio, introduced the FICA Resiliency Award at the 67th Republic Day of India celebration.  She presented the award to two young ladies.



2016 Republic Day of India Celebration

Sudarshan Sathe at 2016 Republic Day

Sudarshan Sathe spoke about the Mahatma Gandhi Campus in Cleveland at the 67th Republic Day of India celebration put on by FICA, Federation of India Community Associations of North East Ohio.



2016 Republic Day of India Celebration

Sanjay Garg update on Shiksha Daan at Republic Day

Shiksha Daan Chair Sanjay Garg gave a progress report on this project that gives the gift of education at the 67th Republic Day of India celebration put on by FICA, Federation of India Community Associations of North East Ohio.


2016 Republic Day of India Celebration

Asim Datta receives FICA Award at Republic Day

Sujata Lakhe Barnard, president of FICA, Federation of India Community Associations of North East Ohio, introduced past-president Mona Alag at the 67th Republic Day of India celebration.

She presented (and accepted it because Asim was not present) the award for Advancing FICA’s Objectives to past-president Asim Datta.



2016 Republic Day of India Celebration

Mona Alag and Project Seva at 2016 Republic Day

Project Seva Board Chair Mona Alag told about the good works of Project Seva at the 67th Republic Day of India celebration put on by FICA, Federation of India Community Associations of North East Ohio. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/asian-indians/asian-indians.htm

Joe Cimperman at 2016 Republic Day

Cleveland City Councilman Joe Cimperman spoke at the 67th Republic Day of India celebration put on by FICA, Federation of India Community Associations of North East Ohio.

2016 Republic Day of India Celebration

Bharatnatyam by Ratipriya Suresh

Ratipriya Suresh performed a traditional Bharatnatyam dance at the 67th Republic Day of India celebration put on by FICA, Federation of India Community Associations of North East Ohio.   http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/asian-indians/asian-indians.htm

Giant puppets tell the story of India - Bharat

Giant puppets from the Cleveland Museum of Art told the story of Bharat, the original name of India.  This was at the 67th Republic Day of India celebration put on by FICA, Federation of India Community Associations of North East Ohio.   http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/asian-indians/asian-indians.htm

Sujata Lakhe Barnard at 67th India Republic Day

MC Sangita Bafna introduced Sujata Lakhe Barnard, president of FICA, Federation of India Community Associations of North East Ohio at the 67th Republic Day of India celebration. Sujata recognized special guests and thanked the many FICA volunteers and sponsors.



2016 Republic Day of India Celebration

Chittaranjan Jain at 67th India Republic Day

MC Sangita Bafna introduced Dr. Chittaranjan Jain, president of the Board of Trustees of FICA, Federation of India Community Associations of North East Ohio at the 67th Republic Day of India celebration. Dr. Jain spoke about the history and significance of Republic Day of Inia, the world’s largest democracy.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/asian-indians/asian-indians.htm

Solidarity in Diversity at Republic Day

MC Sangita Bafna spoke about the evening’s theme ‘Solidarity in Diversity’ at the 67th Republic Day of India celebration put on by FICA, Federation of India Community Associations of North East Ohio.  She also highlighted some of FICA’s progress since starting in 1976. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/asian-indians/asian-indians.htm

US National Anthem by Indian children at Republic Day

Indian-American children from the Cleveland community sang the national anthems of India and the US at the 67th Republic Day of India celebration put on by FICA, Federation of India Community Associations of North East Ohio.  The theme was ‘Solidarity in Diversity’. This is the US National Anthem.  MC Sangita Bafna then introduced the children. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/asian-indians/asian-indians.htm

Indian National Anthem by children at Republic Day

MC Sangita Bafna welcomed the crowd to the 67th Republic Day of India celebration put on by FICA, Federation of India Community Associations of North East Ohio.

She then called up children from the community to sing the national anthems of India and the US.  The theme was ‘Solidarity in Diversity’.


This is the Indian National Anthem.

More about Indians in Cleveland

Cleveland TV Tales Volume 2

Cleveland TV Tales Volume 2  by Mike Olszewski and Janice Olszewski is the follow-up to the popular 2014 book Cleveland TV Tales: Stories from the Golden Age of Local Television

If you are a Clevelander, you probably have heard of Mike Olszewski who has been in Cleveland radio and TV for years. He is also the curator and archivist of the Ohio Broadcast Archive and Museum.

If you are not a Clevelander, you will recognize some very famous names (Dorothy Fuldheim, Mayor Carl Stokes, Al Roker, Ernie Anderson, etc.) that are featured in stories.

And if you are interested in this era (1970's-90's) of TV you will find trends (big hair, happy news, 'Exchanges', etc.) that port well to any major TV market. But the most fun will be for someone from Northeast Ohio who lived through these times and recognizes the names.

As a Clevelander, I recognized most of the people and knew some of the stories but the book filled in a lot of interesting gaps. For example, the tragic case of the Joel Rose suicide, the progression of characters from Ernie Anderson's Ghoulardi (The Ghoul, Son of Ghoul - even SuperHost), the last years of Dorothy Fuldheim, Al Roker's time in Cleveland and so on.

I never knew that weatherman Mark Koontz was the victim of such pranks or that Ralph Tarsitano and Bill McKay interviewed Danny Greene just hours before his car was blown up.

Stories like that keep you turning the pages.

Reviewed by Dan Hanson

The Making of Major League

Juuuuust a bit inside.

Jobu.

Wild Thing.

Anyone who has seen the movie Major League will instantly recognize these, and dozens of other, phrases and characters from the classic baseball movie featuring the underdog Cleveland Indians.

People from Cleveland and Milwaukee (where much was filmed) are naturally fans but to many, this is the quintessential baseball movie.

Author Jonathan Knight created the ultimate in depth look at the movie and how it was made and then the follow-up films and reactions. The book includes inside information from writer/director David Ward and producer Chris Chesser as well as all the stars (Tom Berenger, Bob Ueker, Corbin Bernsen, etc and even a foreword by Charlie Sheen.) Not to mention participants like Sister Mary Assumpta.

There are details that will appeal to film buffs - how it was approached, funded, produced, marketed, etc. Of course baseball fans will enjoy the stories of how the actors were taught proper baseball mechanics making it one of the most realistic baseball movies ever.

The author includes a lot of what he calls "Extras" that include trivia, unknown behind-the-scenes info and other tidbits that fans will eat up.

The book is thorough enough to serve as reference material but loaded with enough stories to make it a fun read.

I was at Cleveland Municipal Stadium for the big crowd filming with the helicopters and in reality it wasn't very memorable. We just sat in the stands. But the memories from the movie, now reinforced by this book, are lasting.

Just try and listen to Wild Thing or Randy Newman's Burn On without a fond memory of Major League.

There's a red moon rising on the Cuyahoga River…


Reviewed by Dan Hanson

Let's Have Another by Dan Coughlin

Let's Have Another is the perfect title for this 3rd collection of short stories from longtime Cleveland sports journalist Dan Coughlin. Many of the stories have some connection to a bar or drinking so 'Let's have another' makes sense.

But just like its predecessor 'Pass the Nuts' the title is a predictor of how you will read the book. Whether salty peanuts or another draft, it's sometimes hard to stop. And that's how reading Coughlin's book is. You read a story, then another, then another. You look at the clock and figure you can squeeze one more in. Then another, then another.

The book is a collection of short stories, in no particular order, so it's like you ran into the author in a bar and listened in on some wild tales. The stories are fascinating - especially for a Cleveland sports fan. Some are funny, some sad and some illuminating.

As a lifetime Cleveland sports fan I thought I knew all the details on Ted Stepien and the Cavs, Mickey McBride, Paul Brown, Otto Graham and the rest of the Cleveland Browns and the Cleveland Indians. But the author gave insights I never knew. How different would things have been if Edward DeBartolo had bought the Tribe?

Some characters return from the first two books, like Junior O'Malley and Dennis Lustig, with fresh tales.

Sports Writers and Characters - Dan Coughlin and Dennis Lustig

Like most Cleveland sports fans I am a Browns, Indians and Cavs guy. Tennis, boxing, cars, horse racing are a distant second in interest but Coughlin tells the stories so well I want to start following the other sports.

Just like the keg in one of his favorite bars, I hope Coughlin isn't tapped out and has another volume or two of these stories ready to go. These 220 pages went way too fast.

Slainte.

Don't miss the official ClevelandSeniors.Com profile of Dan Coughlin from 2011.

Reviewed by Dan Hanson

GE Nela Park Christmas Light Display 2015

Many of you may remember driving through the GE Nela Park campus on Noble Road in East Cleveland as a kid and being mesmerized by the amazing Christmas lighting display. While you haven't been able to drive through Nela Park for many years you can see the brilliant display along Noble Road.

If you drive, be prepared for cars moving very slowly - and even stopping - as they ooh and aahh at the display. A better option is to pull into the Nela Park main road and park in one of the Visitor spots and walk along the display route.

It is another Cleveland treasure and should be visited in person. See some photos of the 2015 display to whet your appetite.

GE Nela Park Christmas Light Display 2015

Eastern European song by Harmonia at Nationalities event

Walt Mahovlich and the band Harmonia performed at the American Nationalities Movement of Ohio (ANM) 51st annual Christmas Luncheon.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/slovak/slovak.htm

Harmonia wedding song at American Nationalities Movement

Walt Mahovlich and the band Harmonia performed at the American Nationalities Movement of Ohio (ANM) 51st annual Christmas Luncheon. This is a Wedding song where the future bride and groom come to ask permission of the parents. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/slovak/slovak.htm

 

Harmonia wedding song at American Nationalities Movement

Walt Mahovlich and the band Harmonia performed at the American Nationalities Movement of Ohio (ANM) 51st annual Christmas Luncheon. This is a Wedding song where the future bride and groom come to ask permission of the parents. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/slovak/slovak.htm

 

Jane B. Sheats story – Part 2 of 2

Jane B. Sheats received the Freedom Award from the American Nationalities Movement of Ohio (ANM).  This was at the 51st annual Christmas Luncheon of the ANM.  Part 2 of 2 of her story. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/africanamerican/africanamerican.htm

Jane B. Sheats receives the Freedom Award from ANM

Jane B. Sheats received the Freedom Award from the American Nationalities Movement of Ohio (ANM).  This was at the 51st annual Christmas Luncheon of the ANM.  Part 1 of her story. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/africanamerican/africanamerican.htm

Jane B. Sheats receives the Freedom Award from ANM

Jane B. Sheats received the Freedom Award from the American Nationalities Movement of Ohio (ANM).  This was at the 51st annual Christmas Luncheon of the ANM.  Part 1 of her story. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/africanamerican/africanamerican.htm

Judges Perk and Pianka give Jane B. Sheats the Freedom Award

Judge Ralph J.  Perk Jr., president of the American Nationalities Movement of Ohio (ANM), and Judge Ray Pianka introduced Jane B. Sheats as recipient of the Freedom Award from the American Nationalities Movement of Ohio (ANM).  This was at the 51st annual Christmas Luncheon of the ANM.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com/

Lia Staff receives the Freedom Award from ANM

Lia Staff received the Freedom Award from the American Nationalities Movement of Ohio (ANM).  This was at the 51st annual Christmas Luncheon of the ANM.  Lia Staff escaped Estonia in 1944 with her family. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/estonian/estonian.htm

Irene Morrow gives Freedom Award to Lia Staff

Irene Morrow, past-president of the American Nationalities Movement of Ohio (ANM), introduced Lia Staff as recipient of The Freedom Award.  This was at the 51st annual Christmas Luncheon of the ANM.  Lia Staff escaped Estonia in 1944 with her family. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/estonian/estonian.htm

Judge Ray Pianka awards Gary Kotlarsic

Judge Ray Pianka introduced Gary Kotlarsic as recipient of the Freedom Award at the 51st annual Christmas Luncheon of the American Nationalities Movement of Ohio (ANM).   Gary Kotlarsic has been a volunteer for many Polish organizations including director of the Polish American Cultural Center, John Paul II.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/polish/polish.htm

Judge Ray Pianka awards Gary Kotlarsic

Judge Ray Pianka introduced Gary Kotlarsic as recipient of the Freedom Award at the 51st annual Christmas Luncheon of the American Nationalities Movement of Ohio (ANM).   Gary Kotlarsic has been a volunteer for many Polish organizations including director of the Polish American Cultural Center, John Paul II.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/polish/polish.htm

Judge Ray Pianka awards Gary Kotlarsic

Judge Ray Pianka introduced Gary Kotlarsic as recipient of the Freedom Award at the 51st annual Christmas Luncheon of the American Nationalities Movement of Ohio (ANM).   Gary Kotlarsic has been a volunteer for many Polish organizations including director of the Polish American Cultural Center, John Paul II.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/polish/polish.htm

Gary Kotlarsic receives Freedom Award

Gary Kotlarsic, volunteer for many Polish organizations including director of the Polish American Cultural Center, John Paul II, received The Freedom Award at the 51st annual Christmas Luncheon of the American Nationalities Movement of Ohio (ANM). http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/polish/polish.htm

 

Gary Kotlarsic receives Freedom Award

Gary Kotlarsic, volunteer for many Polish organizations including director of the Polish American Cultural Center, John Paul II, received The Freedom Award at the 51st annual Christmas Luncheon of the American Nationalities Movement of Ohio (ANM). http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/polish/polish.htm

 

The band Harmonia receives Freedom Award (Part 2 of 2)

Walt Mahovlich and the band Harmonia received The Freedom Award at the 51st annual Christmas Luncheon of the American Nationalities Movement of Ohio (ANM). Harmonia is a nationality ambassador of Eastern European music. This is part 2 of 2 of Walt’s acceptance speech http://www.clevelandpeople.com/

 

Walt Mahovlich and Harmonia receive Freedom Award

Walt Mahovlich and the band Harmonia received The Freedom Award at the 51st annual Christmas Luncheon of the American Nationalities Movement of Ohio (ANM).  Harmonia is a nationality ambassador of Eastern European music.  This is part 1 of Walt’s acceptance speechhttp://www.clevelandpeople.com/

Judge Ralph Perk introduces Harmonia for Freedom Award

Judge Ralph J.  Perk Jr., president of the American Nationalities Movement of Ohio (ANM), introduced Walt Mahovlich and the band Harmonia as recipients of The Freedom Award.  This was at the 51st annual Christmas Luncheon of the ANM.  Harmonia is a nationality ambassador of Eastern European music.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com/

International Fashion Show Part 4 – Vietnam, Ukraine, USA

A highlight of the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland is the international fashion show.  Part 4 includes fashion from Vietnam, Ukraine and the USA. http://www.clevelandpeople.com

International Fashion Show Part 3 – Italian to Spanish

A highlight of the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland is the international fashion show.  Part 3 includes fashion from Italy, Liberia, Lithuania, Poland, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Serbia and Spain. http://www.clevelandpeople.com

International Fashion Show Grand finale – Imagine

A highlight of the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland is the international fashion show.  In this grand finale, all the participants gathered on stage and walked off to a version of the John Lennon song Imagine.  Dr. Nada Martinovic was the director of the Fashion Show. http://www.clevelandpeople.com

International Fashion Show Part 2 – Hmong to Irish

A highlight of the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland is the international fashion show.  Part 2 includes fashion from Hmong people, Hungary, India and Ireland.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com

International Fashion Show Part 1 – Armenia to Hawaii

A highlight of the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland is the international fashion show.  Part 1 includes fashion from Armenia, Cameroon, China, Colombia, Estonia and Hawaii,

2016. http://www.clevelandpeople.com

ICC-WIN’s Ken Kovach – Thanks and see you next year

President Ken Kovach thanked the crowd at the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland.  He announced the 7th annual event will be in the same place in 2016. http://www.clevelandpeople.com

Hula Fusion Polynesian Dance with audience

The Hula Fusion Polynesian Dancers performed at the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland.  In this dance they got people from the audience to dance with them. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/pacislander/pacislander.htm

Hula Fusion Polynesian Dance Finale and introductions

The Hula Fusion Polynesian Dancers performed at the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland.  This dance is their finale and ends with introductions of the dancers. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/pacislander/pacislander.htm

Hula Fusion Polynesian Dance Finale and introductions

The Hula Fusion Polynesian Dancers performed at the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland.  This dance is their finale and ends with introductions of the dancers. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/pacislander/pacislander.htm

Tahitian Dance – the hips tell the story

The Hula Fusion Polynesian Dancers performed at the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland.  This dance is from Tahiti and as MC Tiki said “The hips tell the story.” http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/pacislander/pacislander.htm

For the Ladies – Men’s Hawaiian Dance

The Hula Fusion Polynesian Dancers performed at the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland.  This dance is “for the ladies” as 4 men perform a traditional dance. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/pacislander/pacislander.htm

Oahu Dance with sticks and feathers

The Hula Fusion Polynesian Dancers performed at the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland.  In this dance, two young ladies performed a dance from Oahu with sticks and feathers. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/pacislander/pacislander.htm

Oahu Dance with sticks and feathers

The Hula Fusion Polynesian Dancers performed at the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland.  In this dance, two young ladies performed a dance from Oahu with sticks and feathers. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/pacislander/pacislander.htm

Island of Maui Hawaii Couples Dance

The Hula Fusion Polynesian Dancers performed at the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland.  In this dance, three couples perform a dance from the island of Maui Hawaii.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/pacislander/pacislander.htm

Dance from Bora Bora with ladies in grass skirts

The Hula Fusion Polynesian Dancers performed at the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland.   The MC Tiki explained the dances.  This is a dance from Bora Bora where the ladies wore grass skirts. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/pacislander/pacislander.htm

Liberian girls interpretative dance at ICC-WIN event

The Liberian Community Ensemble performed at the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland.   This was an interpretive dance of two women. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/liberian/liberian.htm

Solo Liberian woman dance at ICC-WIN event

The Liberian Community Ensemble performed at the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland.   This was a solo dance by a woman. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/liberian/liberian.htm

Liberian couple dance at ICC-WIN event

The Liberian Community Ensemble performed at the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland.   This was a dance between a man and a woman. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/liberian/liberian.htm

Spanish Dancers Finale at Cleveland Multicultural Event

The Fairmount Spanish Dancers performed at the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland.   The Fairmount Spanish Dancers dance is based on classical, folk and flamenco style with emphasis on castaneting, heelwork, traditional movement and style.  They are the only company in Ohio dedicated to performing the infinite variety of Spanish Dance. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/spain/spain.htm

Spanish Dancers at Cleveland Multicultural Event

The Fairmount Spanish Dancers performed at the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland.   The Fairmount Spanish Dancers dance is based on classical, folk and flamenco style with emphasis on castaneting, heelwork, traditional movement and style.  They are the only company in Ohio dedicated to performing the infinite variety of Spanish Dance. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/spain/spain.htm

Fairmount Spanish Dancers at ICC-WIN

The Fairmount Spanish Dancers performed at the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland.   The Fairmount Spanish Dancers dance is based on classical, folk and flamenco style with emphasis on castaneting, heelwork, traditional movement and style.  They are the only company in Ohio dedicated to performing the infinite variety of Spanish Dance. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/spain/spain.htm

ICC-WIN Board at 2015 Multicultural Party in Cleveland

President Ken Kovach welcomed the crowd to the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland.  He called on the members of the Board of ICC-WIN to come onstage and they introduced themselves.   This included Harry Weller, Joe Meissner, Dan Hanson, Ingrida Bublys, Pierre Bejjani, Murat Gurer, Nada Martinovic, Mehmet Gencer, Gia Hoa Ryan, Mari Galindo, Debbie Hanson, George Koussa, Anila Nicklos, and Aklilu Demassie.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com

Fairmount Spanish Dancers clapping song

The Fairmount Spanish Dancers performed at the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland.   This is a clapping and stomping dance.  The Fairmount Spanish Dancers dance is based on classical, folk and flamenco style with emphasis on castaneting, heelwork, traditional movement and style.  They are the only company in Ohio dedicated to performing the infinite variety of Spanish Dance. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/spain/spain.htm

14 year old plays Silent Night on trumpet

14 year old Olivia Gotowski performed Silent Night on trumpet at the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/polish/polish.htm

Hejnal at ICC-WIN annual Multicultural Holiday celebration

14 year old Olivia Gotowski performed the Hejnal at the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council – Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland.  The Hejnał Mariacki is a traditional, five-note Polish anthem closely bound to the history and traditions of the capital, Kraków. It is played every hour on the hour, four times in succession in each of the four cardinal directions, by a trumpeter on the highest tower of the city's Saint Mary's Church.  Legend has it that a sentry on a tower of St Mary's Church sounded an alarm by playing the Hejnał but the trumpeter was shot in the throat and did not complete the anthem.  That is why performances end abruptly before completion.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/polish/polish.htm

Rosary important to Polish and Mexican in Cleveland Church

Joe Feckanin, a volunteer at the historically Polish St Casimir Church in Cleveland, spoke to the crowd of Polish, Mexican and others who were there to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe and pray for a miracle from the Polish icon Our Lady of Czestochowa and her Mexican counterpart Our Lady of Guadalupe to keep the family of Carmen Camarillo of Painesville together.  The 7 children of Mr. Camarillo were on hand with friends and supporters to pray that the 17 year resident would not be deported and the family broken up.    He told how important praying the Rosary is.

http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/mexican/mexican.htm and http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/catholic/catholic.htm

Cielito Lindo Mariachi at St Casimir Church

Mariachi Santa Cecilia of Painesville performed at the historically Polish St Casimir Church in Cleveland to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe with a large number of Mexican immigrants.  This song inside the church was to the familiar tune of Cielito Lindo. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/mexican/mexican.htm

Polish Church Pastor and Mexican Mariachi band

Fr. Eric Orzech, Pastor of the historically Polish St Casimir Church in Cleveland, welcomes the crowd of Polish, Mexican and others to the Church to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.  He said “God’s providence has brought us together.”  The people were praying for a miracle from the Polish icon Our Lady of Czestochowa and her Mexican counterpart Our Lady of Guadalupe to keep the family of Carmen Camarillo of Painesville together.  The 7 children of Mr. Camarillo were on hand with friends and supporters to pray that the 17 year resident would not be deported and the family broken up.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/mexican/mexican.htm

Mariachi for Our Lady of Guadalupe at St Casimir Church

Mariachi Santa Cecilia of Painesville performed at the historically Polish St Casimir Church in Cleveland to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe with a large number of Mexican immigrants.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/mexican/mexican.htm

Mariachi Band outside Church for Our Lady of Guadalupe

Mariachi Santa Cecilia of Painesville performed at the historically Polish St Casimir Church in Cleveland to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe with a large number of Mexican immigrants.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/mexican/mexican.htm

Mariachi Happy Birthday to Our Lady of Guadalupe

Mariachi Santa Cecilia of Painesville performed at the historically Polish St Casimir Church in Cleveland to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe with a large number of Mexican immigrants.  This is a traditional Happy Birthday song to Our Lady of Guadalupe. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/mexican/mexican.htm

Miracle from Our Lady of Guadalupe for Painesville family?

Veronica Dahlberg is Executive Director of HOLA, a small, grassroots Latino organization based in NE Ohio focusing on Advocacy, Community Organizing and Civic Engagement.  She spoke in front of St Casimir Catholic Church in Cleveland where she and others gathered to pray for a Miracle from the Polish icon Our Lady of Częstochowah and her Mexican counterpart Our Lady of Guadalupe to keep the family of Carmen Camarillo of Painesville together.  The 7 children of Mr. Camarillo were on hand with friends and supporters to pray that the 17 year resident would not be deported and the family broken up.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/mexican/mexican.htm

Lebanese food explained at Kan Zaman party

Pierre Bejjani of the Lebanese Cultural Garden introduced Wael Ayyad, owner of Kan Zaman Middle East restaurant in Cleveland.  Kan Zaman hosted the annual Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation Christmas party.  Pierre then explained the food that would be served including tabbouleh, hummus, baba ganoush and more.  

http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/lebanese/lebanese.htm and http://www.clevelandcooks.com

Pierre Bejjani and Fr. Naim Khalil at Kan Zaman

Pierre Bejjani of the Lebanese Cultural Garden welcomed the crowd to the annual Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation Christmas party.   It took place at Kan Zaman Middle Eastern restaurant in Cleveland which Pierre said is the only such local restaurant that is for all Middle East and Arabic cultures.  He introduced Fr. Naim Khalil, Pastor of St Elias Church, who said it is very important for us all to be together.

http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/lebanese/lebanese.htm

Ajyal Lebanese Dabke Dance at Cultural Gardens dinner

The Lebanese Cultural Garden was the host for the annual Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation Christmas party.   It took place at Kan Zaman Middle Eastern restaurant in Cleveland.  The Ajyal Lebanese dancer group performed this traditional Lebanese dabke (stomping) dance at the event.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/lebanese/lebanese.htm

Ajyal Lebanese Dancers at Cultural Gardens dinner

The Lebanese Cultural Garden was the host for the annual Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation Christmas party.   It took place at Kan Zaman Middle Eastern restaurant in Cleveland.  The Ajyal Lebanese dancer group performed this traditional Lebanese dance at the event.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/lebanese/lebanese.htm

Afripean drums and electric violin jam Philanthropia

Philanthropia is an annual event hosted by Harlan Diamond and Executive Caterers at Landerhaven designed to benefit non-profits in Cleveland and throughout Northeast Ohio.  This was a song called Pushkin that featured African and European music.  They call it Afripean.  Humble G the Fiddlah played the electric violin.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/africanamerican/africanamerican.htm

Happy on drums and electric violin at Philanthropia

Philanthropia is an annual event hosted by Harlan Diamond and Executive Caterers at Landerhaven designed to benefit non-profits in Cleveland and throughout Northeast Ohio.  This was a version of hit song Happy by Humble G the Fiddlah and the Afripean drummers. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/africanamerican/africanamerican.htm

Singing Angels Christmas Carol singalong at Philanthropia

Philanthropia is an annual event hosted by Harlan Diamond and Executive Caterers at Landerhaven designed to benefit non-profits in Cleveland and throughout Northeast Ohio.  This was a Christmas medley singalong with the Singing Angels going out into the audience.    http://www.clevelandpeople.com/

Mona Alag of FICA Project Seva at Philanthropia

Mona Alag is a volunteer for Project Seva of the Federation of India Community Associations of Northeast Ohio (FICA).  She told about the good works of the charity at Philanthropia which is an annual event hosted by Harlan Diamond and Executive Caterers at Landerhaven designed to benefit non-profits in Cleveland and throughout Northeast Ohio. http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/asian-indians/asian-indians.htm

Let there be peace on earth – Singing Angels

Philanthropia is an annual event hosted by Harlan Diamond and Executive Caterers at Landerhaven designed to benefit non-profits in Cleveland and throughout Northeast Ohio.  This was a special a capella version of Let there be Peace on Earth by the Singing Angels.   http://www.clevelandpeople.com/

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire – electric violin

Philanthropia is an annual event hosted by Harlan Diamond and Executive Caterers at Landerhaven designed to benefit non-profits in Cleveland and throughout Northeast Ohio.  This was a version of The Christmas Song (Chestnuts roasting on an open fire) on electric fiddle or violin.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com/

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire – electric violin

Philanthropia is an annual event hosted by Harlan Diamond and Executive Caterers at Landerhaven designed to benefit non-profits in Cleveland and throughout Northeast Ohio.  This was a version of The Christmas Song (Chestnuts roasting on an open fire) on electric fiddle or violin.  http://www.clevelandpeople.com/

Santa Lucia Closing Procession – Nobel-Monitor Lodge #130

The Nobel-Monitor Lodge #130 Vasa Order of America hosted the 2015 Christmas and Lucia Fest in Highland Heights (Cleveland) Ohio.  The Director of the Luci Program was Anna Rietsch and Reid Taylor was the Accompanist ii.  This is the procession at the end of the concert to the song Santa Lucia.  Solvej Nilsson was Lucia.   http://www.clevelandpeople.com/groups/swedish/swedish.htm