Bell honorary chairman of international festival

2/24/2010

Toledo Mayor Mike Bell was named honorary chairman yesterday of an international festival to be held next month at the Erie Street Market by Toledo Sister Cities International.

The event is to begin at noon March 20 and include five hours of international performances as well as food from other countries. Tickets are $4 in advance and $5 at the door. Children under 10 will be admitted free.

Rogene Kohler, coordinator of the event, said several sponsors have donated $8,000, and the event could raise $10,000 for the organization.

Mr. Bell said yesterday that Toledo Sister Cities International would be funded in the city's 2010 budget, despite the $48.2 million deficit.