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Three Kings bring
gifts for Cleveland youth
By Arooj Ashraf, La Prensa Correspondent
City of Cleveland’s
Community Relations Board presented Fiesta de Reyes in
honor of the Epiphany, a Christian holiday commemorating the
baptism of Jesus Christ, on Jan 6, 2012. Also known as Three
Kings Day, the celebration renewed a sense of wonder in 360
children attending the festivities at Hispanic UMADAOP’s
Youth Center on 3115 Scranton Rd.
Lucy Torres,
Hispanic Liaison to Cleveland Mayor Frank G. Jackson
welcomed the families and said it was an honor to present the
third annual event with help from sponsors, community
organizations and volunteers and bring the joy to the children
of Cleveland. “The kids were really anxious and excited to see
the Three Kings,” she said.
Nearly 400 gifts donated
by Toys for Tots, Esperanza, Inc., Brian Cummins office and
other nonprofits were distributed to the children by the Three
Kings. Toys included dolls, racing cars, giant sized teddy bears
and gift certificates. Julia De Burgos Cultural Center
dance troupes entertained, while Sheriboom, the clown
blew some fun into the mix with shaped balloons.
Radical Elected Disciples
4 Christ Ministries Pastors Nate and Brisy Ortiz helped
organized the event; “We want to give back to the community and
let them know we are here as they need us,” said Brisy Ortiz.
The church has been a member of the community for three years.
Ortiz said celebrating the
holiday together is an important aspect of keeping traditions
alive in the United States and brings families and communities
together.
Olga Gueits,
teacher at Lincoln West High School agreed; “This is the most
important holiday celebrated in Latin American and most of the
world, during Christmas season,” she said. Gueits shared the
story of the Three Kings, the traditions celebrated in unique
ways through the Latin countries. Gueits said the celebrations
last for more than eight days, and children are bestowed with
presents.
She praised Torres for her
energy and efforts in continually presenting cultural
opportunities through the city and engaging Latinos.
Fiol Velez-Romero,
Prevention Coordinator at the Hispanic UMADOP said the
organization was delighted to host the festivities and give
youth an opportunity to enjoy themselves in a safe environment.
She said the youth programming through UMADOP is a great
resource for the community to seek mentor, participate in
sports, games, and learn about prevention programs such as
anti-bullying, drugs and raising self esteem while participating
in afterschool programs.
Torres said, although
Mayor Jackson was unable to attend the festivities, presenting
youth activities are an important mission in his administration.
She encourages everyone’s participation, “ Don’t miss this
event next year!”
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