PRESS RELEASE

FOR RELEASE ON OR AFTER AUGUST 13, 2008

CONTACT:  Dan McCrory (323) 719-2173, Boonrueng Ketpongsuda (818) 284-1167

THAI COMMUNITY ARTS AND CULTURAL CENTER (TCACC)
Tel./Fax (310)827-2910

THAI COMMUNITY CELEBRATES “16TH ANNUAL THAI CULTURAL DAY: LAND OF EMERALD BUDDHA” AND THAI TOWN'S DESIGNATION AS PRESERVE AMERICA COMMUNITY

LOS ANGELES, CA – Over hundreds of cultural events are showcased each year in Los Angeles, California.  To inspire youths and families from any ethnic background to learn more about Thai art and culture, the 16th Annual Thai Cultural Day will be held on Sunday, September 21, at Barnsdall Art Park, 4800 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA.  The purpose of the festival is to celebrate the diversity of the communities residing in the City of Los Angeles.  (Free admission and open to public.  Limited parking is available at Barnsdall Art Park and street parking.  Metro: Red Line at Sunset and Vermont)

The 16th Annual Thai Cultural Day festival is a celebration of the Thai cultural heritage.  It is a wonderful opportunity for the public to enjoy Thai music, dance, kickboxing, food demonstrations, and an exhibit to commemorate his Majesty’s 80th birthday anniversary.  We are currently looking for youth volunteers interested in having fun while promoting cultural and artistic expressions.  Certificates are awarded for their community service.

As one of the highlights, we will re-create an atmosphere of the old Siam in the Live History area:
“Time period will be the 1540's (Suriyothai period).  You will have a glimpse of the Siamese traveling court with Portuguese Settlers/Mercenaries.  A small table with samples of food from the Continent, Latin America, and Asia illustrates the influence of European exploration on food.  The Portuguese officials will then request for an audience with the Princess.  A weapon demonstration ensues.”

Organized by the Thai Community Arts and Cultural Center in partnership with the Thai Association of Southern California, the City of Los Angeles’ Dept. of Cultural Affairs, Team Thailand, and the local communities, the array of activities reflect the diversity of programs offered to California residents, increasing public awareness of a wide range of topics pertaining to the historical and cultural world and the importance of preserving the traditional art forms.  For more information or interviews, please contact Mr. Dan McCrory at (323) 719-2173 or Mr. Boonrueng Ketpongsuda at (818) 359-4020.