Lakewood Schools Cultural Heritage Festival at Garfield

[Gary Rice]

Everyone,

Tonight, I had the honor and pleasure of participating as an American Roots Music performer in the Cultural Heritage Festival of the Lakewood City School District; held at Garfield Middle School.

Hundreds of people from a kaleidoscope of ethnic backgrounds met at Garfield this evening. They were treated to a cornucopia sampling of free food from around the world, provided by parents and numerous local vendors, after which, they could tour numerous exhibits, including a photo exhibit of life through the eyes of refugee families.

The cafeteria stage hosted multiple talented performers, including dancers, African heritage story tellers, and musicians, among others.

International activities transpired in the school's courtyard, and the evening was to conclude with an internationally flavored outdoor soccer match.

It was absolutely mind-boggling to observe and experience the variety of ethnic clothes, food dishes, languages spoken, and overall friendliness on the part of everyone towards each other, especially on this most significant date in our history.

As a Lakewood Schools volunteer, I have regularly observed our students' positive interactions on a day-to-day basis, but to see them in this setting where they and their families shared their many ethnic roots and experiences in such an inclusive and happy way? Wow. I've never been so pleased to say that I am a Lakewoodite!

It was also wonderful to hear that there were many outside community organizations that also contributed to the success of the evening.

It was magnificient!

Back to the banjo.

Gary