A Night of Cultural Celebration Across Our City
A Night of Cultural Celebration Across Our City
On Saturday, March 7th, our team had the pleasure of attending two remarkable events showcasing the cultural richness and entrepreneurial spirit of Cleveland’s diverse communities. Both gatherings reflected the power of social, cultural, and economic collaboration—and both were proudly supported by Margaret W. Wong & Associates LLC.
🎉 CentroVilla25: First-Year Anniversary Bash
Clark-Fulton Neighborhood
https://cv25.org/etn/centrovilla25-1st-year-anniversary-bash/
CentroVilla25 celebrated its first anniversary with a vibrant evening filled with music, food, and community. The venue continues to fulfill its mission to be, in the words of President & CEO Jenice Contreras, “a vibrant hub that celebrates the rich Latino heritage while fostering substantial economic growth.”
What We Loved
- Warm conversations with the CentroVilla25 team
- Food coupons for attendees to sample dishes from various vendors
- A tasty Venezuelan empanada from Tumbao 58
- A rich cup of Puerto Rican coffee from Café Roig
Market Event Manager Ivelys Colon shared that supporting the local community “truly warms the hearts” of everyone involved—an emotion clearly felt throughout the evening.
🐎 Greater Cleveland Chinese Chamber of Commerce (G4C)
2026 New Year Gala & 10th Anniversary Celebration
MLK Branch – Cleveland Public Library
https://clechinesechamber.com/etn/2026-chinese-new-year-celebration/
The G4C ushered in the Year of the Horse while also celebrating its 10th anniversary. The evening featured musical performances—including impressive pieces by young pianists—and recognition of leaders who uplift Northeast Ohio’s Asian community.
G4C has spent the last decade advancing its mission of “building the bridge from Northeast Ohio to the world.”
Executive Director Su He reflected on G4C’s growth: from a “baby organization” in 2016 to a “young adult” today—thriving thanks to its members and community supporters.
Of course, outstanding Asian cuisine rounded out the celebration. After enjoying generous portions at both events, we happily ended the night with full hearts—and full stomachs.
🏆 Honoring the 2026 G4C Award Recipients
As part of our follow‑up coverage, we extend special recognition to the individuals and organizations honored at the G4C gala for their contributions to culture, education, business, and community service.
🌐 Chinese Heritage Global Impact Award
Recognizes leaders who elevate Chinese culture globally while enriching Northeast Ohio’s cultural and economic vitality.
2026 Honorees
- Dr. Andria Derstine
Virginia N. and Randall J. Barbato Deputy Director and Chief Curator, Cleveland Museum of Art
https://www.clevelandart.org/andria-derstine/ - Dr. Clarissa von Spee
James and Donna Reid Curator of Chinese Art & Chair of Asian Art, Cleveland Museum of Art
https://www.clevelandart.org/about-collection/meet-curators/clarissa-von-spee/
💼 Chinese Heritage Excellence in Profession & Business Award
Honors individuals and enterprises whose achievements elevate the visibility and vitality of Chinese heritage in Northeast Ohio.
2026 Honorees
- Case Western Reserve University School of Law
Accepted by Dean Paul Rose
https://case.edu/law/about/faculty-directory/paul-rose/ - Dr. Gloria Zhang
Cleveland Clinic & Case Western Reserve University; leader in several national Chinese American medical associations
https://providers.clevelandclinic.org/provider/gloria-zhang/4268576/ - Shu Hui Lin
Distinguished educator, Cleveland Heights High School; advancing Mandarin education and cultural understanding
https://www.chug.org/p/~board/district-board-posts/post/lin-receives-2025-ohio-master-teacher-award-of-excellence/
✨ Lifetime Service Award
Recognizes decades of dedication, leadership, and service to the Chinese community and to G4C.
2026 Recipient
- Ms. Chia-Min Chen
Asian Liaison, Cleveland Community Relations Board
A trusted and essential bridge between City Hall and Cleveland’s Asian American and Pacific Islander communities
https://www.zooming.com/p/Chia-min-Chen/-1488120904/
Because Ms. Lin and Ms. Chen could not attend the gala, their awards were respectively accepted by Mayor Annette Blackwell of Maple Heights, and Ms. Annie Pu of the Erie Chinese Journal along with Mr. Dan Hanson of ClevelandPeople.com.
❤️ Thank You for Celebrating With Us
We are honored to cover and support the vibrant cultural communities that make Cleveland such a rich and welcoming place to call home. We look forward to sharing more stories that highlight the people, partnerships, and passion driving our region forward.
