Haiti is on the map in Charlotte, NC

First Time Haitian Participation at the UNC Charlotte International Festival: A Remarkable Moment By: Jean, Guy Evens On September 26, 2009, the Haitian Community in Charlotte through the newly formed organization "Haitian Heritage & Friends of Haiti" marked Haiti's first appearance at the UNC Charlotte 34th Annual International Festival. The participation was very beneficial and really showcased the rich heritage of the Haitian culture. Various selections of paintings from Denise Magones, Frantz Zephirin, and other Haitian painters were on display.. T-shirts with the Haitian flag captured everyone's attention, as well as, all the vibrant colors of arts on the tables. Hand painted crafts, arts and mahoganies also made great impression on the exhibition tables. Many visitors wanted to make purchases and took pictures with the displays. To conclude the event, around 4:00 pm, the Haitian DJ Claudy Eugene, introduced the Haitian Rasin[1] music where the hypnotic rhythm electrified everyone in the James H. Barnhardt arena. Haiti's presence with the Rasin music has profoundly captured the gyration of hips even among those who do not know how to break it down. Ms. Sabine Guerrier, the Executive Director of the Haitian Heritage & Friends of Haiti organization was very happy as well as her staff. The team promised to work diligently with various members of the community to make next year's event another memorable one. A special thanks to the UNC Charlotte International Festival Planning Committee for putting together the event. [1] Rasin is the creole word for roots. This kind of music started in the early 1950's and is a combination of Jazz, African, and Caribbean influences.