Free International Festival, Jazz, Coming to Panthereum for Anniversary Celebration
MELBOURNE, FLA. — Florida Tech will be awash in the cultures, costumes and cuisines of many countries when it hosts the Third Annual International Festival on Sunday, Feb. 22, 2009 from noon to 6 p.m. The free event, a highlight of the university’s Golden Anniversary festivities, will take place in the outdoor Panthereum area, located off Country Club Drive and adjacent to Panther Plaza in the heart of the campus. The public is welcome.
Music and dance will be by Javier Molinares and Colombia Baila dance and song; Kleber Garcia, Andean wind ensemble; Panama Suenos y Tradiciones, Panamanian Folk Dance; L’Ahavat Tzion Israel Folk Dance; the Greek American Association of Brevard dance troupe; Space Coast Asian Pacific American Heritaage Association; and Duo Flamenco, a contemporary Flamenco dance and guitar group. Also, the Caribbean Students Association, Indian Students Association and Saudi Student House will offer traditional folk dances. The afternoon will close from 4 to 6 p.m. with the “Jazz on the Panthereum Series” and the Hafer Family Jazz musicians on stage.
Local vendors will sell ethnic food specialties and students will offer handmade jewelry and traditional artifacts for sale. Student organizations representing many countries will present displays and information on their cultures and the Sons of Norway Viking ship will once again be “docked” on the campus lawn.
Among the organizations involved are the Caribbean Students Association, Indian Students Association–Sanskriti, International Student Service Organization, Latin American Student Association, Muslim Student Association, Saudi Student House, Spanish Club, Taiwanese Student Association and the School of Psychology’s Diversity Committee.
Children will enjoy carnival-type games and activities.
“We are very proud to showcase Florida Tech’s international diversity,” said Judy Brooke, director of International Student and Scholar Services. “There will be activities for all ages. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy the afternoon.”
The festival is sponsored by Florida Tech International Student and Scholar Services, WFIT 89.5-FM and the Melbourne-Palm Bay Area Chamber of Commerce.
For more information, call (321) 674-8053.
