 Jesse Rodriguez took the helm as Executive and program director, and along with the board of directors, extended the festival to a full week incorporating programs such as A TASTE OF ASIA, EUROPA EUROPA, HIP HOP FOR THE MASSES, as well as A MOMENT OF SILENCE PLEASE, a film program for the Deaf.The concept for a FILM FESTIVAL VILLAGE was also realized making all the venues and hotel within walking distance of each other.Now as an international film festival, over 20 countries were represented through cinema in 2008.