As a third time participant in I Fest, I now have a bit of perspective on this unique event. Having participated in and attended literally hundreds of festivals since the 1960s, I can say objectively that Houston's I Fest is in a class by itself. What I like most about it is its openness to so many different cultures, so that the world's peoples can come together to share their music and food and art with an audience that is notable for the mutual respect it showers on the participants.<br><br>I was particularly happy this year to welcome a class of young grade schoolers to my African video presentations in the city hall. They were a rapt and appreciative group, and I'm sure they saw things there that they had never experienced before. The chance to share rare footage of genuinely obscure artists (and several famous ones too) is a great gift, and I am continually grateful to Kati and Yolle and their entire staff for letting me a part of this great adventure. Long may you ... more roger Steffens roger one take 6-May-08
My husband and I both are from Charleston S.C and some of the things that we heard at the festival we had know idea that S.C at that much great history. I now know what to tell people when the ask me where are you from. What country are you from. I now tell them I am from Charleston SC. I am gulla.<br><br>Thank You So Much Tajuana Glover No Company 5-May-08
I would like to see "Out of Africa" as a regular feature of ifest each year. It was a eye-opening to share the slavery experience with the public. A real opportunity to erase stereotypes and misconceptions. the forums held following TalkBack Theatre's performances opened eyes; were healing for some and an opportunity for others to express feelings that had been bottled up for years. This kind of cross-cultural communication is needed to heal race relations in America. NAOMI CARRIER TALKBACK THEATRE 5-May-08
We were so impressed with the depth of information within the exhibits, as well as the design and construction of the elements. The experience could be enjoyed quickly, but if you wanted more information it was there too, so that was great. It felt like a 3-D encyclopedia. We have a much greater understanding of Africa and many of the contributions they have made in the world. What a delight that an entertaining venue like IFest makes learning so interesting and hands on. We will be back. pen morrison morrison design & advertising 5-May-08
Greetings - I wanted to take this time to say "well done" to Baba Ifalade Alafia for the hard work in putting together such a wonderful experience at the Gullah Stage. There was a lot to see at the Ifest, but with a schedule chocked full of music, history and culture, it was hard to go anywhere else for fear of missing something just as exciting as the act before. From the Carolina Chocolate Drops to the Caperiro and all the Griots especially Queen Quet who inspired us each time she took the stage - it was all awesome. To Akua Holt and the HEB Cultural Stage I also want to say wonderful job done. The music, the drumming the story tellers and the cooking - well...I haven't stopped talking about it yet! From Buddy Guy to the Wailers, I have to say it was all a wonderful experience. It would take a book to express the great time I had. Can you top it next year?? We'll see! Peace and blessings,<br>IyaMokun Omilana I. Fagbenro-Amusan Omilana Fagbenro Ifakowajo African Women's Cultural Society 3-May-08
The four days were a great experience to me. As the first iFest we actually participated in (that is for most not all of us), it was a learning experience. Per my suggestion to others, it would be great to have an African presence on a yearly basis. This makes for community building.<br><br>The event was well organized. With this experience, the next one will be much better. The staff (Kati) was always available to help iron out any issues.<br><br>Parking was an issue. I found it much easier to part at the tranquility lot for $6 than worry about a parking pass. volunteers may be more likely to participate if they get free parking. <br><br>Thank you for seeking the participation of the African Community. Philip Aitsebaomo African Coalition 2-May-08
Ifest was well-organized and well attended. What an honor for the institutions of Houston to be able to share information and services with the public in such an educational and fun forum. The Houston Museum of Natural Science is proud to be a part of Ifest and thrilled to be working with their talented staff! Jamie Glover the Houston Museum of Natural Science 2-May-08
Peace and Blessings to the Entire Houston Family!<br><br>A family has to come together to support one another. This is how we obtain success and we keep harmony and balance on the planet. I believe that the Houston International Festival operates in that manner. I pray that you continue the living testimony of what happens when people come together to share what their cultures have to offer and they celebrate the sharing together. Trying to ignore the differences that make the world unique is part of why folks are unhealthy and imbalanced. This event allows people to take pride in learning about themselves and others.<br><br>I enjoyed the wide array of events. My only major suggestion for improvement would be either better timing regarding presentations on stages that are near each other and/or making sure that your sound company knows how to properly aim the sound so that the bleed is minimized from stage to stage. Individual vendors should not be ... more Queen Quet Gullah/Geechee Sea Island Coalition 2-May-08
It was an amazing and awe-inspiring experience to not only perform, but to experience the festival in so many different ways.<br>Something this large so well organized is tremendously rewarding to say the least...<br>I look forward to being there again in whateve capacity we are asked.... So many of our fans and friends were there and thanked us (The Jones Family Singers) for inviting them to come.<br>Bishop Jones<br>http://sellaband.com/thejonesfamilysingers Bishop Fred Jones,Sr. Family-Styled Records 1-May-08
Of the ten years that I've been site artist for the festival, this was my favorite ever! There was such a powerfully positive vibe from people of all walks of life and such incredible participation and support from the local community. I was sad to see it end. Kati Ozanic Houston International Festival 28-Apr-08
Greetings:<br>This was the basolute best IFest that I have experienced in the 7 years that I have lived in Houston. There was such a feeling of fellowship as well as the opportunities to learn and teach just in the dialog and interaction. The food, the music, the exhibits, especially, Forward to Freedom, and above all the people from all over the world made this the place to be. High 5 to Jew DOn Boney for his vision and guidance and to all who help make it live. Thank you Mickey LeLand, for your are yet alive in all that you left behind. Dr Evelyn Bethune Mary McLeod Bethune Educational Legacy Foundation 28-Apr-08
I TOOK OVER 550 OF HIGH RES DIGITAL PHOTOS AND WANT TO SHAIR THEM ... HELP HELP..<br><br>THE FEST WAS THE BEST ONE SO FAR ..<br><br>SJB <br><br>http://www.sjbearden.com/IFEST-HOU-START2008.htm SCOTT BEARDEN sjbphotography 28-Apr-08
The organizers diid a fantastic Job.We all had a great time and many pople just loved it.Our children had great clean fun and they were so sorry it ended so soon.<br>We can not wait for next year to come so we can all be part of this great expiriance one more time.<br>Thank you Houston for doing this. You are the envy of many other cities.This is proof that Houston is in deed an international city. Mohammed Adem Pain Du Jour French Bakery 28-Apr-08
I greatly enjoyed this year's IFest. The living museum was a big hit. I particularly enjoyed the exhibits of the Rock Church in Lalibela, the on segregation, and the one about African influences in different types of music. I never knew the origin of the name Jim Crow before visiting the segregation display, so that alone was of great benefit. The food, beverages, and entertainment variety were all excellent. My family and I enjoyed ourselves immensely. Thank you for a great festival. Kevin Dunham ABM 27-Apr-08
I ATTENDED THE IFEST LAST WEEKEND AND I WAS BLOWN AWAY AT ALL THE I EXPERIENCED. EVERY ONE OF MY 6 SENSES WERE FULLFILLED. THERE IS SO MUCH TO DO AND SEE IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO SEE ALL IN ONE WEEKEND SO THAT'S WHY I WILL BE THERE NEXT WEEKEND. I WAS SO LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING HUGH MASAKELA, BUT I DON'T SEE HIM ON THE SCHEDULE. IF HE IS TO APPEAR I WOULD APPRECIATE IT IF SOMEONE WOULD ADVISE ME WHEN AND WHERE TO GO. I AM ALSO SO EXCITED TO SEE "WAR" I HAVE BEEN WAITING TO SEE THEM SINCE I LEFT MY MOTHER'S WOMB!!! GOD BLESS YOU FOR BEING AT THE FESTIVAL AND GIVING ME ONE MORE THING I CAN SCRATCH OFF MY "BUCKET LIST." FRANCES FRANKLIN M.I.C.I. 25-Apr-08
I love the ifest this year it was so Awesome! I can not wait to see what country will be featured next year! Keep up the good work! Shanda Walker Reliant Energy 25-Apr-08
I was helping my Aunt Mampati by attending the South African booth..I must say I had a great time. I didn't believe how many people(different cultures)were so interested in Africa as a whole. Even though I haven't been home in a while I was glad to answer questions about almost everything that we brought to display from the Ndebelle dolls,beads,different kinds of drinking products,even information about South Africa. I met a couple of Americans getting ready to go visist or who have been there before. We met som South Africans diasporas,who have been here for ages.. I GOT A CHANCE TO BRAG TOO ABOUT THE 2010 FIFA WORLD CUP - THE FIRST TIME THE FESTIVAL OF SOCCER WILL BE HELD ON AFRICAN SOIL...1ST..COMPRENDE..UNO..<br>Thanks to the City of Houston and The IFEST Organization to Salute 'Out Of Africa' the theme this year.<br>'SIYABONGA NIKHULE NIKHOKHOBE' Sibongile Sibiya Lehae Cleaning Services 24-Apr-08
Loved the music, the smells, the food, the happy people, the sense of community, kids playing, laughter. Oh and I bought a really cool new purse. Thanks for all you do to create awareness and tolerance. Peace, Love & Light ~ Tracey Lee Wallace True Light Resources 23-Apr-08
At the urging of a daughter I attended my first (but not last) iFest last Sunday. At 83 I've been to my share of "County Fairs". This one was a hoot! The variety of entertainment, food and the like was special. And the people watching is incredible. I loved it. BZ LEE FOUNDATION FOR THE RETARDED 23-Apr-08
Highlights of this year's iFest? I hardly know where to start...but I'd definitely check out the Church at LaLibela and the amazing food at the Blue Nile (an Ethiopian Booth near the Church). Try the Indira (an amazing spongy sour dough bread)! Erica OGrady Peanut Butter Media 23-Apr-08
