CLEVELAND, March 7, 2006 - Throughout the month of March, Mayor Frank G. Jackson's Arts & Culture Initiative in Cleveland City Hall will feature programs, trailers, and presentations as well as some full-length feature films shot on location in Cleveland.

On Friday we will indulge in one of Cleveland's favorite art forms and its ever-favorite friend, popcorn! This Friday's program will be hosted by Laura Paglin, Producer/Director of No Umbrella - Election Day in the City, a street level view of the 2004 election-day challenges faced by Ward 7 and Cleveland City Councilwoman Fannie Lewis. This short documentary premiered at the 2006 Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah this January. Paglin will be speaking about her work and offering clips of her films. Cleveland City Councilwoman Fannie Lewis will be on hand to assist Paglin with questions and to support this important film about getting the vote out in Cleveland.

Cleveland has a rich history and presence in film. This month marks the 30th anniversary of the Cleveland International Film Festival, a premier event garnering local and nternational acclaim. Cleveland is well-represented in this year';s festival with ten full-length feature films, several shorts, and documentaries showcasing local actors, editors, directors, and producers.