"Guest" on Sept. 22 does have a point, in that the number of people attending is low for the extraordinary quality of the staff and the program. I can only assure him or her that it was not for lack of effort, nor indeed for lack of outreach. We actually had publicity out far and wide, both printed and radio, and were helped (we hope) by the significant number of co-sponsoring organizations.

I think it takes time for an event like this to acquire something of the "couldn't miss it" aura. And by far the best publicity is word of mouth from one person to another about what an unusual and exceptional event it is. The event is doing ok, and growth will be slow but steady.

I think we also face an obstacle in that we know of some who say that it looks wonderful but they are terrified of driving into New York City. Let me take this opportunity to tell anyone who might feel that way that one does NOT need to drive anywhere near mid-town Manhattan to get to the festival. Once you leave the interstate (from any direction) you are 5 minutes from the school. Feel free to ask me for details.

I might also point out that Jackson Heights has to be one of the greatest neighborhoods in the country to eat. The array of top quality ethnic cuisine at working class prices is quite breathtaking. It can be thought of as one of the major attractions of an already ethnic festival.