Experiences: The Cleveland International Film Festival 2026 – Opening Night

I am no real fan of country music, but I just loved Eddie Rabbitt. He is no longer with us, but for me, his music lives on and reminds me of my early adulthood. I Love a Rainy Night, Driving My Life Away (ironic to this monkey now), Just You and I (with Crystal Gayle) and an all-timer for me, the gorgeous song, Suspicions.

I’m so glad that I met you, baby
And I’m so proud when we walk down the street
And I know it’s crazy to worry like I do
But I get this feelin’ that I’m losing you

I get these suspicions
Even though I know that you love me, baby
And I really shouldn’t feel this way
Suspicions, I can’t help it, you’re just so good lookin’
I’m afraid somebody’s gonna steal you away from me

When I go out to a party with you
You always turn every head in the room
And I just know what’s on every man’s mind
I try to fight it, but it gets me sometimesI get these suspicions
Even though I know that you love me, baby
And I really shouldn’t feel this way
Ooh suspicions, I can’t help it, you’re just so good lookin’
I’m afraid somebody’s gonna steal you away from me

Ooh, suspicions

When I’m with you, I feel so satisfied
The way you touch me when you lay by my side
And that look you get in your eyes when we love
It makes me hate myself for what I’m thinkin’ of

I get these suspicions
Even though I know that you love me, baby
And I really shouldn’t feel this way
Ooh suspicions, I can’t help it, you’re just so good lookin’
I’m afraid somebody’s gonna steal you away from me

Suspicions, even though I know that you love me, baby
And I really shouldn’t feel this way
Ooh suspicions, I can’t help it you’re just so good lookin’
I’m afraid somebody’s gonna steal you away from me
Ooh suspicions, even though I know that you love me, baby
And I really shouldn’t feel this way

We turn to the present, April 9, 2026, Opening Night at CIFF. On this night, its Red Carpet and one single film: A Man with Sole: The Impact of Kenneth Cole. Mr. Cole himself was in attendance. I had the great pleasure to meet him and chat briefly. If you can find this film, WATCH it. You may well know the designer, you do not know the depths of philanthropy this man has given to the world. From AIDS awareness in the early ’80’s to gun control to now the growing mental health problems created by our social media world, he is an amazingly giving human being.

At orientation, unlike in past years when most (not me) wore staff t-shirts, we were encouraged to dress to always try and make the festival feel like a high-end event for your patrons. Well, now you opened Pandora’s Box! I do not believe I am being hyperbolic here, no less that 50 people either complimented me on my dress, on my style or simply remembered me and said hello from years past (or seeing me elsewhere). It is plainly clear, my mission to be visible to change one mind at a time is happening. Whether it means a thing is not for me to judge.

What I found most interesting, people you would not think would even pay me a single bit of attention came over and complimented me. Many older heterosexual men (since they were with their wives, I made that assessment) told me I looked good. They did not have to do that; they touched me in a way I cannot articulate. Numerous film makers (I know this because of their FM credentials) chatted me up. Also, warming my heart, I was my friend Bill. I mentioned him last year. Bill is 102 years old! I was so happy to know he is still with us. What a gift from God he is.

The incredibly admirable Kenneth Cole and the amazing Bill, all of 102 years old!

I smiled the entire night, having wonderful conversations, gathering hugs, tearing up, just enjoying this wonderful event, these amazing people and grateful for who and what I am. Yes, the dress had something to do with my evening…

Candid photos are just that, candid!

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