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Producer, author and actress, Robin Phillips and acclaimed singer Yvette Spears Two legendary icons of the twentieth-century stage were brought vividly to life by the remarkable producer, author, actress, and “femme de culture,” Robin Phillips and the acclaimed singer Yvette Spears. Together they presented an unforgettable evening celebrating the music and lives of Marlene Dietrich and Josephine Baker. This special Summer Musicale took place at “Woof Trap Theatre” at the Carderock Falls Manor as part of WIPAC’s annual fundraising event following its 25th Anniversary in 2025. WIPAC will hold its annual International Piano Arts Competition from August 5th through the 9th in Washington, DC. One of WIPAC’s greatest champions, Robin Phillips, presented her original production, Marlene and Josephine, Wine, Women and Song. Phillips, portraying Marlene and Spears, portraying Josephine, skillfully brought these two extraordinary women together on stage. In her narration, Phillips explored their unique lives as chanteuses, performers, and courageous women whose paths intersected in France during World War II. As Phillips expressed, “By the late 1960s, Marlene and Josephine were not just performers, they had become legends… women who crossed borders, defied expectations, loved passionately, stared down the whole world and defied fascism.” She went on to explain that “neither lived cautiously, neither apologized for living fully… they were a symbol of individuality, survival and defiance.” Josephine Baker, an African American singer, dancer, and entertainer of immense talent, left the United States because she could no longer tolerate the racism she experienced despite her growing acclaim. In France, she became an international sensation and one of the most celebrated performers of her era. Marlene Dietrich, born in Germany, was likewise renowned as a legendary chanteuse and one of the most successful actresses of the twentieth century. She settled in France and devoted herself to supporting the Allied cause during World War II. Dietrich became especially admired for entertaining Allied troops, boosting morale, and demonstrating unwavering loyalty to the fight against Nazism. Rejecting Adolf Hitler’s invitations to return to Germany and publicly support the regime, she ultimately became an American citizen. Josephine Baker’s story is almost unbelievable in its scope and achievement. She captivated audiences throughout Europe and counted among her admirers some of world’s greatest artists and intellectuals, including Pablo Picasso and Jean Cocteau. Beyond her artistic accomplishments, Baker became an active member of the French Resistance, serving as a spy and making significant contributions to the Allied war effort against Nazi Germany. Phillips recounted how Baker hid secrets in her music scores that helped the allied forces. Her postwar life was equally extraordinary. Baker adopted twelve children of diverse ethnic backgrounds and raised them in her French château as a living testament to racial harmony and human unity. Despite later financial hardships that threatened the loss of her home, she received crucial support from Princess Grace of Monaco, whose friendship helped preserve Baker’s quality of life during difficult times. Yvette Spears portrayed Josephine Baker to great acclaim. Possessing a vocal timbre and resonance reminiscent of Baker’s celebrated rich, warm and highly expressive mezzo soprano voice, Spears captivated the audience with her energy, and charisma. Particularly memorable was her rendition of Frank Sinatra’s classic “My Way,” a song that Baker herself famously performed at Carnegie Hall in 1973, just two years before her death in 1975. Peter DiGiovanni's accordion performance created the flavor for the era of the 1940s and pianist Ronald "Trey" Walton's virtuosic piano accompaniment was an inspiration to both the singers and the audience. The realization of this remarkable production was made in part through the efforts of Jose Alberto Ucles, a devoted supporter of WIPAC and Commissioner of the DC Arts Commission. It was through his introduction of Yvette Spears to Robin Phillips that this dynamic collaboration came to fruition. Robin Phillips’ production, through her eloquent narration and moving interpretations of Dietrich’s songs, illuminated the remarkable lives of these two women. The performance was poetic, compelling, and deserving of a much wider audience through future professional-stage productions. Event Chair, Marsha Muawwad graciously welcomed guests to the intimate theatre venue. The evening reflected the dedication and support of WIPAC’s outstanding leadership and community, including founders Chateau and John Gardecki, President Faye Rokni, and the organization’s officers, supporters, and volunteers. Their commitment continues to make possible cultural events of exceptional quality while advancing WIPAC’s mission of nurturing the art of piano performance. The event was not only a celebration of two extraordinary women whose courage, artistry, and convictions changed history, but also a testament to the power of the arts to educate, inspire, and unite audiences across generations.

Congratulations Wuiping Yap for another successful street fair ... 21 years through thick and thin. Photo essay by George Newcomb Experience the energy, flavor, and excitement of the Fiesta Asia Street Fair through this photo journey. This Street Fair is the longest-running and largest free Pan-Asian festival in the Washington, DC metropolitan area! Spanning multiple stages and vibrant cultural pavilions, the festival features more than 1,000 performers, artisans, and food vendors representing over 20 Asian cultures. From dazzling performances and interactive cultural experiences to incredible cuisine and handcrafted art, Fiesta Asia is an unforgettable celebration of the rich heritage, diversity, and spirit of Asian communities.

On the evening of May 18, 2026, jazz lovers gathered in Washington, D.C. for an unforgettable celebration of rhythm and great musical artistry as the acclaimed DIVA Jazz Orchestra presented its “Swing Into Spring” concert. Hosted by the National Women's Foundation at the historic Whittemore House, the event combined the timeless spirit of big band jazz with the energy and sophistication that has made DIVA one of the world’s premier all-female jazz ensembles. DIVA Quintet brings Swing into Spring at the National Women's Foundation in DC The concert featured a select quintet from DIVA, showcasing dynamic interpretations of jazz standards and contemporary arrangements. DIVA has spent more than three decades redefining the role of women in jazz while honoring the traditions of swing and big band music. From the first beats by percussionist Sherrie Maricle, the atmosphere inside the Whittemore House was electric. After enjoying delicious appetizers in the historic setting of the Whittemore House, the room quickly transformed into an intimate jazz club, alive with syncopated rhythms, expressive solos, and the pulse of swing music. Under the musical leadership of renowned drummer Sherrie Maricle, DIVA has performed in venues worldwide, including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center and Lincoln Center. The brilliant performers also included Amy Shook on bass, Janelle Gill, on piano, Jennifer Krupa on Trombone and Leigh Pilzer on the baritone saxophone. While the artists enjoy significant academic achievements, their performance was anything but academic and a testament to the authenticity of their great musicianship. The “Swing Into Spring” program featured beloved jazz classics as Duke Ellington’s “It Don’t Mean a Thing if You Ain’t Got That Swing; Peggy Lee’s and Bill Schluger’s “I Love Being Here With You;” and more contemporary works like “The Nearness of You,” by Norah Jones. The audience was at the edge of their seat as Sherrie Maricle’s drumbeat led the band in So Danzo Sambo, a Brazilian favorite composed by Joao Gilberto and Stan Getz. In “Bernie’s Tune, Saxophonist Leigh Pilzer paid tribute to composer Bernie Miller, a Washington DC native who has fallen into obscurity. His song was made famous by the great Gerry Mulligan as well as by Ella Fitzgerald and groups led by Stan Getz, Buddy Rich and many others. The only reference that can be found about Bernie Miller is that he was a pianist with the Taft Hotel Orchestra in New York City. Perhaps the reason that he has been virtually forgotten except for “Bernie’s Tune” is that he died when he was only 25 year old . Encouraged by the dynamic rhythms, the audience took to the dance floor, immersing themselves in the music. Whether through smooth saxophone melodies, vibrant trombone lines, rich bass sounds, rhythmic piano passages and the dynamic drums, the quintet demonstrated why DIVA remains a major force in modern jazz. Beyond the music itself, the concert carried a deeper significance. The event celebrated women’s leadership and artistic excellence, reflecting the mission of both DIVA and the National Women’s Foundation. For decades, DIVA has challenged stereotypes in the jazz world, opening doors for future generations of female musicians while maintaining an uncompromising standard of musical excellence. The National Women’s Foundation’s is dedicated to the preservation of women’s history, and through their many programs, to introduce young people to music, literature and history. Their voter registration program has focused on high school graduates, leading to civic engagement by thousands of young people. Watch for the next concert of the Whittemore Concert Series. On October 8th, pianist Leah Claiborne will perform a recital for the piano featuring the music of Florence Price, the first African American woman to be recognized as a symphonic composer.

By Lisa McFarren-Polgar With wisdom beyond their years, the six Regional Finalists of the MLK Youth Oratorical Competition affirmed the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and secured the promise of the next generation at the event held at Mt Zion Baptist Church in Triangle, VA. The Prince William Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. hosted the powerful and inspiring program showcasing remarkable young people, whose poise, eloquence, and conviction demonstrated that the dream of justice and freedom is very much alive. Serving as Master of Ceremonies, Dumfries Mayor Derrick Wood set the tone for an unforgettable morning, reminding the audience that these young voices represent both the future and the responsibility we share today. The middle school finalists included Jasraj Saini of Benton Middle School, Danielle Odom of Rippon Middle School, and Brianna McGlawn of Manassas Park Middle School. The high school finalists were Beulah Sarsah of C.D. Hylton High School, Salima Lankford-Diallo of Manassas Park High School, and Ryqah Shaikh of Gainesville High School. Winners of the Competition were Brianna McGlawn and Beulah Sarsah. Each competitor delivered a clear and urgent message: change requires action. Jasraj Saini’s dynamic presentation emphasized that awakening the dream requires courage, compassion, and speaking up for what is right. “Martin Luther King’s dream belongs to all of us,” he declared, urging the audience to replace fear with understanding. Brianna McGlawn passionately echoed Dr. King’s belief that “justice is not the absence of tension, but the presence of justice.” She challenged the community to come together and fight for friends, family, and neighborhoods, reminding everyone that unity is essential in the pursuit of equity. Danielle Odom’s speech struck a deeply emotional chord as she addressed injustices faced by marginalized communities, including the 59,000 immigrant families torn apart. She spoke powerfully about the cruelty of cutting food benefits for children “before they can even read,” calling attention to the human cost of policies that harm the most vulnerable. Mayor Wood proudly affirmed that “these young people are our future,” adding that while Dr. King had a dream, these students are actively awakening it through their words and actions. The high school orators further demonstrated the promise of tomorrow’s leaders. Ryqah Shaikh challenged the audience to confront inequities in education, stating that “some doors are heavier for some than others.” She emphasized that awareness alone is not enough and called for advocacy and accountability. “A dream only stays a dream if we stay asleep,” she said. “We can become the generation that makes it real.” Beulah Sarsah called on everyone to “have the courage to be radical” and dared the audience to imagine a world that truly works for everyone. Quoting Frederick Douglass, she reminded listeners that “We the people means all the people.” She spoke movingly about the fears children face going to school and parents face going to work, urging the community to awaken a dream that includes and protects all. Salima Lankford-Diallo closed with a powerful challenge, asking, “How do we awaken the dream if the world is asleep?” She urged listeners to confront reality head-on, warning that history has a way of repeating itself when ignored. “We have a chance to fix it,” she declared. “Wake up!” Inspired by the students’ words, Mayor Wood reminded the audience that the event was not just about speeches, but about who these young people are becoming. In special recognition, Congressman Eugene Vindman congratulated the orators and the organizers as they celebrated the 41st anniversary of the MLK Oratorical Competition. He presented the regional winners with certificates to be entered into the Congressional Record. The dancers of Divine Inspirations Center for the Arts, Directed by Capriece Piper, brought the message to life with powerful movements and graceful dance choreographed to the words of Maya Angelou. The Prince William County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., under the leadership of President Felicia Pryor, is to be commended for sustaining this meaningful MLK commemoration for 41 years. Sorors Joanne Bagnerise and Lillie Jessie were specially recognized for their unwavering commitment to the youth of Prince William County and for their visionary leadership in creating this event in 1985, just one year after the chapter was chartered. The program concluded on a high note with the MLK Youth Community Choir, whose beautiful and energetic performance brought the audience to its feet. Under the direction of Khanner Hancock Essix, the young singers filled the room with joy, hope, and a powerful reminder that the dream lives on through the voices and actions of our youth.

In a world too often marked by turmoil, the Washington International Piano Arts Competition’s annual gala once again affirmed the enduring power of music—its ability to uplift, connect, and remind us of the beauty still present in life. Through the artistry of pianist Michael Slavin and the dedication of the WIPAC community, this year’s Gala stood as a testament to harmony not only in sound, but in spirit. This year’s event once again welcomed the “doyen” of WIPAC pianists, Dr. Michael Slavin , recipient of the Winners Classic Circle 2025 . Slavin performed a short recital for an audience composed of long-time supporters, aficionados of piano artistry, and enthusiastic newcomers. Before an elegant dinner at The Tavern , a historic Georgetown landmark that has hosted luminaries since the American Revolutionary War, guests were introduced to this year’s Gala Committee Co-Chairs, Mark Stubis  and his wife, author Qin Sun Stubis . In his welcoming remarks, Mr. Stubis introduced Dr. Slavin, who in turn paid tribute to WIPAC founders Chateau and John Gardecki , whose tireless work over the past quarter-century has elevated WIPAC into one of the world’s most prestigious competitions for the “musical amateur” pianist. Slavin’s recital featured works by Leoš Janáček , Brahms , Chopin , and Liszt . A Program of Depth and Emotion Slavin opened with Janáček’s In the Mists , a work of haunting beauty. In the festive atmosphere of the evening, pianist Slavin’s mastery of the piano and sensitivity for Janáček’s distinctive melodic palette—shaped by Moravian folk influences and the composer’s turbulent emotional world—was vividly realized. Slavin embodied Janáček’s own words: “The art of dramatic writing is to compose a melodic curve that will, as if by magic, reveal immediately a human being in one phase of his life.” As Dr. Slavin so well conveyed on the piano, Janacek’s turbulent life gave form to this work, from melodious phrasing to dramatic tones. Slavin next performed Brahms’s Rhapsody in B Minor , delivering a powerful, crisp, and deeply dramatic interpretation. Dedicated to Brahms’s close friend Elisabeth von Herzogenberg , a gifted composer and pianist constrained by the conventions of her aristocratic life, the piece resonates with personal warmth. In Slavin’s hands, it recalled her own words to Brahms: “Your music forms an integral part of our lives… like the air and light and warmth.” Chopin’s Nocturne Op. 27 No. 2 , one of his most beloved works, followed. Slavin played with crystalline delicacy and introspective grace, drawing from Chateau Gardecki  a spontaneous and heartfelt, “Bravo, Michael!” Composed in 1835, the nocturne was famously performed by Chopin in Leipzig at the home of Friedrich Wieck, for Robert and Clara Schumann and Felix Mendelssohn, who later remarked: “I heard a lovely new notturno by Chopin, a considerable part of which I learned by ear.”  Slavin’s performance is a reminder of the importance of preserving such memories and musical traditions. His finale, Liszt’s Hungarian Rhapsody No. 13 , brought virtuosic flair and elegance. Often mistakenly associated with themes from the Spanish violinist Pablo de Sarasate or misattributed to Romani origins, the work actually draws from authentic Hungarian folk melodies. Slavin’s rendition—performed on a legendary Viennese Bösendorfer piano—was poised, exuberant, and commanding. Honoring a Community of Supporters The evening also recognized many individuals whose dedication strengthens WIPAC’s mission. Among them were: Carolyn Fuller , stepping down as President of WIPAC, Faye Rokni , the newly appointed WIPAC President, Portia Davidson , former WIPAC President, Michael Davidson , former President and current Chairman of the Jury, Rhoda Septilici , diplomatic liaison, Michaela Gorham , of the Gorham Family Foundation, Art patrons Wayne and Linda Sharp who generously funded the use of the Bosendorfer piano , a nd of course, WIPAC founders John and Chateau Gardecki

Reprinted courtesy of Diplomatic Watch https://diplomaticwatch.com/wipac-founders-john-chateau-gardecki-honored-with-lifetime-achievement-arts-award/ by Victor Gotevbe October 24, 2025 Reading Time: 3 mins read Washington International Piano Arts Council (WIPAC) co-founders, John and Chateau Gardecki were honored on Wednesday with the Lifetime Achievement Arts Humanitarian Award presented by the Church of Scientology. The award recognizes the couple’s extraordinary more than two decades of contribution to the city’s cultural life, establishing Washington as a hub for non-professional classical pianists worldwide. The award citation praised the couple’s enduring influence on Washington’s artistic landscape, stating: “Our office has been honored and proud to know Chateau and John Gardecki, and to have helped support and sponsor several annual WIPAC Festival of Music and Washington International Piano Artists Competition events. Dupont Circle is noted for the arts, and WIPAC added a new dimension of classical piano music to the area. As the founders of WIPAC, their life’s work of sharing beautiful classical piano music inspired us to present them with the Lifetime Achievement Arts Humanitarian Award.” John Gardecki performing for the audience The Gardeckis founded WIPAC in 2002 after John Gardecki, a resident pianist of Middleburg, Virginia, competed successfully in two of the world’s premier amateur competitions, the Concours International des Grands Amateurs de Piano in Paris and the Van Cliburn International Piano Amateur Competition in Fort Worth, Texas. Those experiences inspired him and Chateau to offer musicians of similar backgrounds a platform in Washington that would unite artistry, community, and cultural exchange. They quickly formed an executive board of music lovers and, with the assistance of Jerome Barry, founder and director of the Embassy Series, WIPAC launched its first public concert, the Winners Grand Prix Concert, at the French Embassy on April 24 2002. The event featured leading amateur pianists from Paris, Fort Worth, and Boston and drew strong public and diplomatic interest, marking the birth of a new cultural tradition in the capital. Encouraged by their success, WIPAC was invited by Keith Peoples of the Society of the Cincinnati to revive public piano recitals at Anderson House Museum. The partnership produced seasonal concerts between 2002 and 2010, featuring acclaimed pianists such as Frederic Chiu, Eric Himy, and Janice Weber. The program later continued at the Kosciuszko Foundation American Polish Center for the Arts, further extending WIPAC’s reach within Washington’s embassy district. Today, WIPAC’s signature Festival of Music and Washington International Piano Artists Competition, hosted in cooperation with the George Washington University Music Department, draw non-professional pianists from around the world. Participants, often professionals in diverse fields such as medicine, law, and engineering, perform for the love of music, exemplifying the Gardeckis’ belief that artistic passion transcends vocation. Over more than two decades, the Gardeckis have woven piano artistry into the cultural fabric of Washington, engaging with embassies, nonprofits, and educational institutions. Their leadership has strengthened global friendships through music while giving dedicated amateurs a stage to achieve professional-level performance standards. Receiving the Lifetime Achievement Arts Humanitarian Award marks a culmination of that lifelong mission. Through WIPAC, John and Chateau Gardecki have established that music not only enlightens audiences but also builds bridges between nations, cultures, and hearts.

On a lively Friday evening, the historic Whittemore House—headquarters of the National Woman’s Democratic Club in Washington, D.C.—was transformed into a swinging jazz hall as over one hundred guests gathered for a special New Orleans Jazz Night, part of the ongoing Whittemore Concert Series. Longtime D.C. jazz legend Thad Wilson and his Septet took the stage to resounding applause, bringing classic New Orleans jazz to life with an infectious energy that swept across the room. The group’s tight, exuberant sound had everyone tapping their feet, clapping along and dancing. Joining Wilson was celebrated vocalist Steve Washington, a Broadway veteran and well-known figure in the local music scene. His commanding baritone and charismatic stage presence brought an extra layer of magic to the night’s performances.   Among the evening's standout moments was Washington’s heartfelt rendition of “I Was Telling Her About You” , first popularized by Al Hibbler and later covered by greats like Johnny Mathis, Dinah Washington, Nancy Wilson, and Marvin Gaye. His performance paid loving tribute to these vocal icons while making the song his own. Audience members were also treated to an insightful two-minute historical video, echoing the engaging tone of Henry Louis Gates Jr., exploring New Orleans Jazz as America’s first original musical form. Far from slowing the pace, this moment of reflection added depth and context to an already dynamic program. Wilson’s ensemble delivered powerful interpretations of jazz standards, including the high-energy “Take the ‘A’ Train” by Billy Strayhorn—famously inspired by Strayhorn’s first journey to meet Duke Ellington in 1939—and the deeply emotional “Blood Count,” Strayhorn’s final composition, written while he battled cancer. The performance captured the poignant beauty of the piece, drawing the audience into its soulful depths. Also was the ever-popular “Little Liza Jane,” a traditional tune with Southern roots that had the entire room moving. With Washington leading the vocals, the ensemble brought a contemporary flair to this beloved classic. The night closed with a stirring rendition of “What a Wonderful World,” with Thad Wilson channeling Louis Armstrong’s signature gravelly voice so convincingly that it felt as though Armstrong himself had joined the party. Held at the Whittemore House, a gem of the Arts and Crafts Movement and home to the Woman’s National Democratic Club since 1927, the concert honored not only jazz history but the legacy of women’s advocacy in the U.S. The house was acquired just years after the passage of the 19th Amendment, symbolizing a new chapter in American civic life. The Whittemore Concert Series continues this winter with a performance by the National Symphony Orchestra Trio on December 2nd. Mark your calendars for another unforgettable evening of music and culture. Special thanks to the generous supporters who helped make the Thad Wilson concert possible: Pamela Johnson, Suzanne Finney, Judy Hubbard, Cliftine Jones, Sasha Kay, Bonnie Heather McCabe, and several anonymous donors.

Delegates King and Maldonado Lead the Celebration of the African Diaspora Heritage Month in Virginia If you had walked through the halls of the State Capitol in Richmond on September 9th, you would have heard the heavenly voices of the Tema Choir as they prepared to sing outside on the steps of the Capitol to celebrate Virginia's African Diaspora Heritage Month.  The Observance, established in 2022, serves to honor the global African diaspora and its profound impact on the fabric of American society and culture.  The event was hosted by Delegates Candi Mundon King and Michelle Lopes Maldonado who provided an opportunity to highlight achievements, foster cultural connections between Africans and their descendants in the Americas, and recognize the ongoing contributions of this growing and diverse community.  Under the direction of Ebenezer Allotoy, the Tema Choir has blessed our community with joyful and inspiring performances for many years. It has performed with the Old Bridge Symphony Orchestra and at many venues, including Embassies, churches and senior communities, highlighting beautiful Ghanaian traditional songs as well as music from the classical repertoire.  The powerful speeches during the celebration by members of the General Assembly told the story of the ties that bind between the Americas and Africa and the historical significance of having the first African American Speaker of the House in a Capitol that was built by slaves. Following the event, the choir, dignitaries and officials were feated to a Taste from Africa by Mamasu's Restaurant. On September 16, Virginia's Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan Lead a Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing September as African Diaspora Month in the United States. “As one of the fastest growing immigrant populations across the United States, the African diaspora has brought a depth of culture and history that enriches our nation. Virginia feels those ties especially strongly, since the first Angolans arrived on the shores of Hampton, Virginia in 1619,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “As a state senator three years ago, I championed the effort that made Virginia the first state in the nation to designate September as African Diaspora Month. Now, I’m proud to carry this torch to the federal level alongside my colleagues on both sides of the aisle.” On the Senate side, Senators Kaine and Cornyn have also led the way to establish African Diaspora Heritage Month accross the country. Delegate Candi King's inspirational remarks during the African Diaspora Heritage Month. Delegate Michelle Maldonado gives the history behind the establishment of the African Diaspora Heritage Month.

The energy was infectious at the vibrant Latino Fest held in the heart of Manassas Park, where the atmosphere was filled with excitement and joy. Attendees were treated to a spectacular lineup of talented musicians who brought the sounds of Latin America to life, showcasing a variety of genres that included salsa, merengue, and reggaeton. The rhythmic beats had everyone dancing, and the lively performances captivated audiences of all ages. Alongside the musicians, skilled dancers adorned in colorful traditional attire took to the stage, performing mesmerizing routines that highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the Latino community. In addition to the captivating performances, the event featured a series of inspiring speakers, further enriching the experience for all who attended. Their words resonated deeply, emphasizing the importance of community, culture, and unity. Of course, no festival is complete without an array of delicious food, and the Latino Fest did not disappoint. Attendees indulged in a variety of culinary delights, from savory baleadas, tacos, to sweet churros, saltenas and chicharron, providing a true taste of Latino cuisine that delighted the senses. Congratulations are in order for the remarkable efforts of the "Comadres," particularly MP Councilwoman Yesy Amaya and Diana Brown Proud MCPS Board Member , who played pivotal roles in organizing this family-friendly event that not only celebrated Latino Culture but also fostered a sense of community and togetherness. Their dedication to highlighting the richness of Latino traditions is a testament to their hard work and commitment to bringing people together through the joy of culture, food, and music. Latino Advocacy Network had a table at the festival. Carmen E. Rodríguez  and Lisa McFarren-Polgar registered voters and handed out important Know Your Rights information as well as resources to many in the Latino community. The campaign for candidate for Governor, Abigail Spanberger   was well represented with Jasmin Chavez  , Carla Bustillos, Meg Stevens , Christian Ramos, and many young Democrats. Congressman Suhas Subramanyam  and Delegate Michelle Lopes Maldonado  , who represent the District, also had the opportunity to speak. The Mayor of Manassas Park, Allana Mensing and Vice-Mayor, Darryl Moore, gave the audience a warm welcome. Juan Pablo Seguro, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and of Arentinian descent, identified well with the audience.

Marking the 80th Anniversary of the dropping of the nuclear bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, MPT and PBS are broadcasting accross the nation this important documentary produced by Shizumi Shigeto Manale  and directed by Bryan Reichhardt . It's a gripping story of the resilience of children and their ability to overcome suffering with expressions of friendships towards those who inflicted such pain. Producer, Shizumi Shigeto Manale The documentary draws lessons from the colorful pictures made by Honkawa school children who had survived the bombing of Hiroshima. The children had received a half-ton of art supplies from All Souls Unitarian Church in Maryland in 1947 after the pastor of the church was horrified by US newspaper reports glorifying the bombing and felt he had to do something to extend hands of friendship to those victims. The drawings were sent back by the Hiroshima children to the church as an expression of friendship and gratitude for the gift of the art supplies. The 2010 film, “Pictures of a Hiroshima Schoolyard,” completed the circle of friendship by telling the story of the artists (who are now in their 80’s) reflecting on what inspired them to draw beautiful and joyous pictures that did not reflect the devastation of their surroundings. The producer of the film, Shizumi Manale, commented that when she saw the drawings on August 9, 2006, when she visited the church with three Hibakusha (atomic bomb survivors), “I was stunned and speechless by the miracle of the pictures themselves, but also by the story behind them. These pictures were not drawings on paper, but rather, they showed what was in the hearts of 48 children who had suffered an unspeakable experience.” “They represented the human capacity for reconciliation.” You can also watch the documentary for free using this link through February 2, 2026. Seijyu Kahou, President of the PanAsian Association https://video.mpt.tv/video/pictures-from-a-hiroshima-schoolyard-t3AM14/?fbclid=IwY2xjawMHhv5leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHiMct5tZZYdEe9gXurcGNK2OJDMbBHdAL3TJvpk5KaTyLS4oEr5QwViXkAUS_aem_Vi8fsSHb6wTnfYZ2rDDwdw The MPT and PBS broadcasts were made possible by generous donations from, among many, the Panamerican-Panafrican Association, the PanAsian Association, under the leadership of Seijyu Kahou .

"Music and mutual understanding bring our two people together." -- H.E. Ambassador Xie Feng On Sunday, August 10, the Washington International Piano Arts Competition's 25th anniversary final event was celebrated with much fanfare at the Great Hall of the Embassy of the Peoples Republic of China in Washington, DC. The diplomatic family of China welcomed WIPAC organizers and its audience to an exhilarating concert performed by pianist Michael Slavin and the Washington Conservatory of Music Orchestra. Chosen by the Wipac jurors as the “Ultimate Pianist,” Slavin and the orchestra performed the Rachmaninoff Concerto No 1 in a culmination of WIPAC’s long history as a leading piano competition in the world. The Ambassador of China to the United States, H.E. Xie Feng, welcomed everyone with a heartfelt speech, encouraging peaceful co-existence between our two countries. “Peace is a common pursuit for people who must help in changing this turbulent world, and China and the USA share in the obligation to encourage peace, solidarity and amity, as well as equality and mutual respect.” The Ambassador added, “Music and mutual understanding bring our two people together, as the winds of politics cannot be the reason to keep our people separated.” In a seamless dialogue between pianist Slavin and the orchestra, under the baton of Conductor Jovan Zivkovic, the compelling narrative and emotional depth of Rachmaninoff’s music came to life. With great ease, Slavin interpreted the powerful and dramatic passages, from delicate lyricism to thunderous climaxes, maintaining control over the instrument throughout. Pianist Slavin and the Washington Conservatory of Music Orchestra’s exceptional musicians created a cohesive and integrated performance of one of Rachmaninoff’s most demanding works. The Concerto, written by the composer at age 17- 18 in 1891 (later revised in 1917), is a remarkable work, highlighting Rachmaninoff’s genius as a teenager. Slavin captured Rachmaninoff’s youthful exuberance, as well as his sense of innocence that permeates the work. Ambassador Xie Feng expressed a keen appreciation for WIPAC’s role in fostering the art of piano performance. In a similar way, he stated, the Chinese people’s appreciation for classical music has grown, with the flourishing of concert halls and opera houses throughout China and the creation of eighty orchestras. The Ambassador encouraged increased people-to-people exchange cooperation between China and the USA and invited Americans to visit his country. As the Ambassador reminded the audience, it was a half century ago that the Philadelphia orchestra was the first American orchestra to visit China, forging the path to the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the USA under the auspices of Deng Xiaoping, President of China, and Jimmy Carter, President of the USA. The Ambassador referenced the great violinist Fritz Kreisler who at the turn of the century, composed the Tambourin Chinois, a very popular piece in the classical music repertoire. He drew attention to Chinese pianists Lang Lang and Yuri Wang, who have taken on the world stage. The second part of the 25th Anniversary gala celebration at the Embassy featured Yiran Wang, WIPAC's 2018 Competition winner, performing the grandiose 4th Movement of the “Yellow River” Concerto. Ambassador Xie Feng commented that the work features China’s most passionate and powerful melodies, having inspired the world’s anti-fascist movement and forged a profound pledge for peace. “We must continue to develop bilateral relations, focus on mutual respect and find the right way to get along with each other." Pianist Wang's performance of the “Yellow River” piano concerto, one of the most significant compositions of the Classical Chinese repertoire, was a musically compelling display of virtuosity, evoking the images of the powerful Yellow River. The dramatic musical exchange between pianist and orchestra highlighted traditional Chinese folk music combined with Western classical forms. Following the Ambassador's remarks, WIPAC’s founder Mme. Chateau Gardecki, welcomed the audience and acknowledged WIPAC Vice Chair, Mrs. Sheila Switzer for her intercession in bringing the event at the Chinese Embassy to fruition. She also acknowledged Ambassador ‘s Xie Feng’s wife, Madame Wang Dan for her generosity as well as the Minister Counselor For Cultural and Tourism, Chen Chunmei, who also took part in the organization of this event. Carolyn Fuller, President of the Board of WIPAC, expressed her appreciation for WIPAC's quarter century promotion of music as a universal language and acknowledged the notable support from WIPAC supporters and organizers. Michela Gorham and Faye Rokni served as distinguished Co-Chairs for this 25th anniversary celebration. The Gala event took on special meaning with the delectable dinner menu comprised of a blend of beautifully decorated Chinese cuisine reflecting the various regions across China and Western flavors.