Cindependent Present Camilo Idobro’s Cruza El Valle
Cincinnati
Cincinnati Compass Recognize LULAC and LOEF Leaders
September 12, 2025 – Cincinnati, OH — The city came alive with vibrant sounds and cultural pride as Cincinnati Compass hosted the fifth edition of Cincinnati Rhythm, a dynamic celebration of immigrant artistry and community leadership. Held in the heart of the city, the event showcased the rich diversity that defines Cincinnati’s cultural landscape.
🎶 The evening featured electrifying performances from a global lineup of artists, including Ijo Ugo, an African performance art company known for its powerful storytelling through movement; the Cultural Centre of India dance studio, which brought classical and contemporary Indian dance to the stage; and Son del Caribe, a beloved 11-piece salsa band that had the crowd dancing with their classic Latin rhythms. DJ Shemizo Ndetoh kept the energy flowing with an eclectic mix that bridged continents and generations.
🌟 In addition to the performances, Cincinnati Rhythm honored two outstanding leaders whose work has uplifted the Latino community. Lourdes Ribera, longtime president and now vice president of LULAC Cincinnati, received the Legacy Award for her decades of advocacy and service. Laura Castillo, a rising leader in public administration and active member of LOEF Young Latino Professionals (YLP), was presented with the Rising Star Award in recognition of her impactful leadership and dedication to public service.
The Latino community showed up in full force to support and celebrate their honorees, filling the venue with warmth, pride, and unity. The evening served as a reminder that Cincinnati’s rhythm is shaped by the many cultures that call it home—and that the beat only grows stronger when we celebrate together.
LOEF host Evening of Song for a Cause at Market Wines
September 11, 2025 – Walnut Hills, Cincinnati, OH — On a picturesque evening filled with music, warmth, and generosity, the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF) hosted An Evening of Song for a Cause at Market Wines in Walnut Hills. The event brought together community members, supporters, and music lovers to celebrate Latino culture and raise funds for youth initiatives.
The venue, graciously donated by Lynn Love, owner of Market Wines, provided the perfect backdrop for the evening. Market Wines, a woman-owned minority business, is known not only for its curated wine selections but also for its commitment to uplifting local communities.
🎶 The highlight of the night was a stunning performance by Ana Karen, affectionately known as La Dama del Pueblo. Her emotive voice carried through the air as she delivered a heartfelt repertoire of traditional and contemporary songs, captivating the audience and honoring the spirit of cultural pride and youth empowerment. Gracias por el apoyo a la juventud, Ana Karen!!
Guests mingled under the pleasant skies, reconnecting with old friends and forming new bonds. A wine raffle added a festive touch to the evening, that was possible by an enthusiastic group of local scientist. Thank you for your support!! The lucky winner took home a bottle of Cocodrillo (Cocodrile), a rich Argentinian blend with a name as bold as its flavor.
“Events like this remind us why we do what we do,” said LOEF board member, Victoria Garland. “It’s about coming together, sharing joy, and giving back to the community that inspires us.” The warm reception from attendees reaffirmed LOEF’s mission to foster connection and support through creative, inclusive gatherings. With fall on the horizon, LOEF promises more events that continue to celebrate culture, community, and cause.
🌟 Stay tuned for what’s next—hasta luego, amigos!
LOEF Secures New Scholarship Sponsor Through Partnership with Hispanic Pioneer Alliance
September 10, 2025 – Cincinnati, OH — In a promising step toward expanding educational opportunities for Latino students, the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF) has welcomed a new scholarship sponsor: the Hispanic Pioneer Alliance (HPA), a recently launched organization serving Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati.
LOEF President Laura Moese and Young Latino Professional member Julieth López attended the HPA meeting by special invitation from board members Nelly Reyes and Becky Astaiza. The gathering marked a pivotal moment for collaboration between two organizations committed to uplifting the Latino community through education, leadership, and innovation.
During the meeting, Moese presented LOEF’s mission to empower Latino students and professionals through scholarships, mentorship, and community engagement. Inspired by LOEF’s impact, HPA enthusiastically agreed to become the foundation’s newest scholarship program sponsor—solidifying a partnership rooted in shared values and vision.
Founded in August 2025, HPA aims to support Latino pioneers in business, education, and civic leadership. Their decision to invest in LOEF’s scholarship initiatives signals a strong dedication to fostering talent and opportunity across the region.
🤝 The partnership is expected to open new doors for students and strengthen the network of Latino professionals working to build a more inclusive and empowered future.
As both organizations continue to grow, this collaboration stands as a testament to the power of unity, vision, and shared purpose in driving lasting change.
LOEF @ One Night Only with Pepe
September 4, 2025 – Cincinnati, OH — The Caribbean Eye film series welcomed to the Queen City as Dominican director Nelson Carlo de los Santos Arias made a special appearance for the screening of his internationally acclaimed film Pepe. The event, held at the Esquire Theater, drew a vibrant crowd of students, professors, and community leaders, eager to engage with the visionary behind this film.
De los Santos Arias, who made history in 2024 as the first Latin American to win the Silver Bear for Best Director at the Berlin Film Festival, began his Cincinnati visit with a talk at the University of Cincinnati. Later that evening, he joined attendees for the screening of Pepe, a surreal and haunting meditation on memory, time, and identity—told from the perspective of a hippopotamus killed in the Americas. Pepe defies conventional storytelling. The film’s narrator, a disembodied voice claiming to be the spirit of the hippo, offers a fragmented, poetic reflection on existence and displacement. Its experimental style and philosophical depth have captivated audiences.
Among those in attendance were Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF), Northern Kentucky University student Camilo Idrobo, and several University of Cincinnati faculty and students. The evening was hosted by UC Professor Mary Leonard, whose dedication to bringing global cinema to local audiences was celebrated throughout the event. Following the screening, de los Santos Arias participated in a lively Q&A session, fielding questions about the film’s themes, production process, and his artistic journey.
The event marked a significant moment for Cincinnati’s cultural scene, bridging international artistry with local engagement—and leaving attendees inspired by the power of film to provoke, connect, and transform.
LOEF and LULAC @ Carthage Elementary School Open House
Cincinnati, OH — August 28, 2025
Carthage Elementary School (CES) opened its doors to families and community members for a welcoming Open House celebration, highlighting its commitment to inclusivity and family engagement—especially among its growing Latino population.
Among the key contributors were Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF); Victoria Garland, LOEF Board Member; and Lourdes Ribera, Vice President of LULAC Cincinnati. These dedicated leaders regularly collaborate with CES to provide Spanish-language translation services, ensuring that families with limited English proficiency can fully participate in their children’s education. Laura Moese also contributes as CES board member.
Working alongside Saida Canel, Latin Family Coordinator for Cincinnati Public Schools, the team was joined this time by Rosalba Arreaga, whose presence further strengthened the translation efforts. Their work allowed Spanish-speaking parents to engage meaningfully with teachers, understand academic expectations, and access school resources.
The Open House also underscored the growing partnership between CES and LULAC / LOEF—a collaboration that continues to uplift the local Latino community. Through consistent engagement, translation services, and cultural outreach, LOEF and LULAC help CES create a more inclusive environment where families feel supported and empowered. This alliance not only strengthens communication between parents and educators but also fosters trust, belonging, and educational success for Latino students across the district.
🎭 Theater Workshop Celebrates Diversity and Creativity in Cincinnati
CINCINNATI, August 16, 2025 — In a vibrant celebration of art, emotion, and unity, Gabriel Martinez, from Dos Corazones Productions and a member of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation Young Latino Professionals (LOEF-YLP), led a dynamic theater workshop at the Community Happens Here Center. Designed for participants of all ages, the event blended movement, storytelling, and visual arts to explore themes of diversity, empathy, and connection.
The workshop opened with a dance session, inviting attendees to explore how body language can express a wide range of emotions. This physical introduction set the tone for a day of creative exploration and meaningful dialogue.
📚 Participants then gathered to read Gato y Pez (Cat and Fish), a whimsical yet profound story that highlights how differences can enrich relationships rather than divide them. The narrative sparked conversations about unity and the power of diversity to foster collaboration and understanding. Inspired by the book, attendees created drawings of their favorite scenes and characters, bringing their interpretations to life through color and imagination. The artistic journey continued with a captivating shadow projection performance, adding a theatrical dimension to the workshop’s message.
📝 The event concluded with a reading of a poem by Federico García Lorca, emphasizing the importance of friendship and echoing the themes found in Gato y Pescado. The poem served as a poetic bridge between literature and lived experience, leaving participants with a sense of connection and inspiration. The workshop was met with enthusiasm and joy, as families and individuals engaged in multiple art forms and thoughtful discussions. With support from ArtsWave, this initiative will soon expand to primary schools in Hartwell and Carthage, bringing its message of unity and creativity to younger audiences.
This community-centered initiative was made possible through the leadership of Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF), who facilitated the partnership between Dos Corazones Productions and Community Happens Here (CHH). Her efforts were instrumental in bringing the workshop to life and ensuring its accessibility to families across Cincinnati. With support from ArtsWave, the program will soon expand to primary schools in Hartwell and Carthage. Laura Moese and LOEF are actively championing this rollout, reinforcing their commitment to empowering Latino youth and fostering inclusive community engagement through the arts.
AfriFest 2025
LULAC and LOEF @the ELL foundation Annual Recognition Breakfast
Highland Heights, Feb 27, 2025 – The English Language Learning (ELL) Foundation held its Annual Recognition Breakfast at Northern Kentucky University’s (NKU) Student Union, under the inspiring motto “Leaping Forward: Global Voices, Local Impact.” This event is a heartfelt celebration of the exceptional accomplishments of bright English language (EL) students, caring educators, and community organizations that have made significant contributions.
Every year, the ELL Foundation invites a diverse group of donors, students, educators, and community friends to join in honoring the successes and resilience of EL students overcoming adversities. This year was no exception, as the community gathered to celebrate and recognize those who have made impactful strides.
During the Recognition Breakfast, the Foundation awarded honors to the Students of the Year, Educator of the Year, Community Ally of the Year, and the prestigious Make a Difference Award. These accolades are a testament to the dedication and hard work of those involved in promoting and supporting English language learning.
The event also serves as the main fundraising effort for the ELL Foundation Scholarship program, which provides opportunities for English language learners to pursue higher education at accredited area colleges and universities. This year’s breakfast was pivotal in raising the necessary funds to continue this crucial support.
Lourdes Ribera, President of LULAC Cincinnati; Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation; and Maider Marin McGee, LULAC and LOEF board member were in attendance to Support Rosa Moreno, LOEF Director of Higher Education with ELL. Their presence underscored the partnership between the ELL Foundation and these prominent organizations, as they came together to celebrate the accomplishments of LOEF and LULAC council members who were recognized during the event.
LULAC and LOEF congratulate to all the honored students and Professional in this Event.
The Annual Recognition Breakfast remains a cherished tradition, embodying the spirit of unity and progress, and highlighting the powerful impact of community support on the lives of English language learners.
LOEF@ Rising Start School 3Bs celebration
Cincinnati, January 17, 2025 – Dr. Jackson, principal of Rising Stars School, invited Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF), to the 3Bs award ceremony. The event honored pre-K, kindergarten, and first-grade students with the Be Kind awards, recognizing their efforts to embody kindness in their daily interactions.
Rising Stars School, which serves a significant number of Latino students, has long been a pillar of inclusivity and support for the community. The presence of Laura Moese highlighted the ongoing partnership between the school and LOEF, reinforcing their shared commitment to fostering a nurturing environment for all students. The 3Bs award ceremony was a joyous occasion, filled with pride and inspiration.
Rising Stars School is one of the schools where Laura Moese and Victoria Garland, LOEF Board member, volunteer as translators, ensuring that parents could fully participate in the school conferences. Their dedication to bridging communication gaps underscores LOEF’s mission to empower and support the Latino community through education and engagement.