PAGE 2 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016
STATEWIDE COMMUNITY CALENDAR Compiled by AMELIA CASAMINA CABATU
OAHU DECEMBER 3, 2016 Candonians of Hawaii Installation & Christmas Party. Dole Cannery Pomaikai Grand Ballroom 735 Iwilei Rd, Honolulu, HI. 6:00 PM-11:00 PM; Cost: $60.00; Contact Persons: Grace Go 389-1989, Pam Pacquing 498-3098, Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090 DECEMBER 4, 2016 Fil-Am Courier Community Hour on KNDI 1270 AM Radio 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM. Log on to www.kndi.com and/or www.filamcourier.com and Social Media FB Page Fil-Am Courier with your host Amelia Casamina Cabatu, for more info call Amelia at (808) 282-2033 DECEMBER 4, 2016 Pasko sa Filcom brought to you by the FilCom Center 94-428 Mokuola St. Waipahu HI. 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM Contact Person: Arceli Rebollido 680-0451 or website http:// www.filcom.org DECEMBER 9, 2016 Filipino Women’s Civic Club (FWCC) Foundation Chirstmas Party and Installation of Officers Ala Moana Hotel Garden Lanai. 6:00 PM Cost: $65.00 Contact Persons: Ceceilia Villafuerte 780-4985, Rose Galanto 688-4458, Adela Salacup 677-8908, Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090. DECEMBER 10, 2016 Adult Foster Homecare Association of Hawaii (AFHA). Christmas Celebration and the 20172018 Installation of Officers. Pacific Beach Hotel Grand Ballroom. 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Amelia Casamina Cabatu is a community leader and a familiar face, often hosting community events and celebrations. She is a veteran radio announcer and hosts the “FIL-AM COURIER COMMUNITY HOUR on 1270 KNDI Radio every 1st Sunday of the month. In addition to other affiliations, Amelia is the former Chair of the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii. She owns and operates an adult daycare business and is happily married to Arnold Cabatu. They live in Salt Lake and are blessed with one daughter, Armay. Please send your event information to acmina808@gmail.com or call her at (808) 282-2033.
Contact persons: Maribel Tan 384-0494, Norma Tan 358-4985 DECEMBER 14, 2016 Filipino Business Women’s Association (FBWA) Annual Christmas Party and Birthday Celebrations for December Born Members. 6:00 PM; Empress Restaurant (Chinese Cultural Plaza) Bring a grab bag worth $20 for a gift exchange. Great social networking opportunity; Cost: $40.00 Contact Persons: Letty Saban 255-9429 or lettysaban@ yahoo.com, Elsa Talavera 358-8964, Lina Mercado 382-7751 DECEMBER 16, 2016 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH) Annual Christmas Celebration 6:00 PM Pagoda Floating Restaurant 1525 Rycroft St. Honolulu HI. Contact Person: Vanessa Kop 256-0370, Bernadette Fajardo 342-809 DECEMBER 17, 2016 Toys 4 Tots Fundraising, Zumbathon Charity Event, Hawaii Yacht Club 1739 C Ala Moana Blvd. Honolulu, HI. 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM; Christmas in Paradise, Vendors are Welcome. Contact Person: Rosemarie Mendoza, FB message her on her FB Timeline. DECEMBER 18, 2016 Santo Domingo Association celebrates their annual Christmas Party and Affirmation of New Officers 6:00 PM – 11: 00 PM; Bird of Paradise Restaurant in the Prince Golf Course in Ewa. Cost: $50.00; Contact Person: Isabel Rivera Phu 223-2888
DECEMBER 20, 2016 2nd Sakada Day Celebration & the 110th Year Anniversary of the 1st Arrival of Sakadas to Hawaii FilCom Center in Waipahu 6:30 PM Presented by Philippine Consulate General in coordination with the many leading Filipino Community Organizations headed by the Oahu Filipino Community Council (OFCC); Contact Persons: Leo Gozar 630-6268, Zhoydell Magaoay 478-9802, Mae Mizuno 741-4503, Amelia Casamina Cabatu 2822033 COMMUNITY CALENDAR FOR THE YEAR 2017 JANUARY 1, 2017 Fil-Am Courier Community Hour on KNDI 1270 AM Radio 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM. Log on to www.kndi.com and/or www.filamcourier.com and Social Media FB Page Fil-Am Courier with your host Amelia Casamina Cabatu. For more info call Amelia at (808) 282-2033 JANUARY 14, 2017 Taste of Kalihi, a block party in the heart of Kalihi presented by the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH); Save the date, more details to come. For more information contact Chair, Sam Acosta 306-1428, Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090 JANUARY 7, 2017 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH) Legislative Breakfast Ala Wai Golf Club 404 Kapahulu Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii. 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM; FCCH MEMBERS ONLY
RSVP by December 16, 2016. Contact Persons: Ken Nakasone 381-9009, Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090 JANUARY 28, 2017 Gunglo Ti Mannurat nga Ilocano (GUMIL) Hawaii and Annak ti Kailokuan ti America (AKA) Miss and Mrs. GUMIL and AKA Coronation Night Sunset Lanai, Camp Smith Honolulu, Hawaii. Cost $40.00; Contact Persons: Mr. Froebel Garcia President of GUMIL: 808 386-6857, Mrs. Pacita Saludes President of AKA 808 779-6678 FEBRUARY 16-26, 2017 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii 27th (FCCH) Annual Filipino Trade Mission to the Philippines. The trade mission aims to strengthen the business opportunities between Hawaii and the Philippines. Planned itinerary includes visits to Manila, Davao, Laoag, Vigan, Candon, and Baguio City. Official Travel Agency is Noble Travel- Teresita Noble 808-244-4609 Contact Persons: Paul Alimbuyao 754-8691, Bernadette Fajardo 3428090. MARCH 24, 2017 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii 23rd Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament. Ewa Beach Golf Club 91-050 Fort Weaver Road Ewa Beach Hawaii. The proceeds from the tournament will fund the Foundation’s scholarship program. Looking for interested players. Contact Persons: Eddie Agas 7833327, Jack Legal 284-6832, Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090 APRIL 15, 2017 Filipino Women’s Club of Hawaii Foundation (Formerly known as the Hawaii Filipino Women’s Club) Annual Terno Ball Ala Moana Hotel Hibiscus Ballroom 6:00 PM; Contact Persons: Nelly Pongco Liu 228-7808, Carlota Ader 797-4381, Mercy Mullins 226-1320
MAY 6, 2017 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii Filipino Entrepreneur of the Year and the Filipino Young Entrepreneur of the Year and Scholarship Awards Gala. Dole Cannery Pomaikai Ballroom. 735 Iwilei Rd, Honolulu, HI. 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM; Contact Persons: Rocky Anguay 387-5821, Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090 JULY 8, 2017 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH). Installation of New Officers and Board of Directors. 6:00 PM; Hilton Hawaiian Village Resorts, Tapa Ballroom. Contact Persons: Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090, Brandon Dela Cruz 389-0517.
MAUI DECEMBER 14, 2016 Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce Holiday Soiree. 5:30 PM Nahele Banquet Room, Kahili Golf Course 2500 Honoapiilani Hwy, Wailuku, Hawaii Cost: $50.00 Cocktail or Semi-formal attire encouraged. Reserve online: www.mauifilipinochamber.com
BIG ISLAND JANUARY 21-22, 2017 Philippine Consulate Outreach mobile team visits Kona at the West Hawaii Civic Center (Building A-across DMV) 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Hwy. January 21, 2017 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, January 22, 2017 8:00 AM to 12:00 Noon. This service is made in collaboration with the Kona Visayan Club. To make an appointment please call Jane Clement 808-756-3103. To download forms or any other inquiries call the Philippine Consulate General at 808-545-6316 or visit their website philippines honolulu.org
THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2016 • PAGE 3
SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1987 PUBLISHER Mary Llanos Cordero MANAGING EDITOR Bennette Espineli Misalucha DIRECTOR OF DESIGN Armando Dela Cruz Busmente PRODUCTION MANAGER Alice Llanos Busmente ASSISTANT EDITOR Radiant Cordero COPY EDITOR Danielle Evangelista PHOTOGRAPHERS/GRAPHICS Brandon dela Cruz Noah Felipe Gabe de Liso Jeff Orig James Ramos COLUMNISTS Edna Alikpala Rhoda Yabez Alvarez, Esq. Jesse Bacon II Nancy Bernal Cesar Bonilla Alice Llanos Busmente Amelia Casamina Cabatu Anabel Gasmen Cabebe Dr. Rickie Camara Dr. Patricia Halagao Zeny Muyot Angie Santiago Perfecto Yasay Jr. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Conrad Abuel Ric Agnes Paul Alimbuyao Ria Baldevia Eriza Bareng Marnelli Joy Basilio Bernie Caalim Randy Cortez Radiant Cordero Mary Cruzada Jaime de Jesus Brandon dela Cruz Christian Evangelista Imelda Gasmen Veronika Geronimo Leo Gozar Ben Gutierrez Kathleen Lee Carmela Minaya Gladys Quinto Marrone Gladys Menor John Pagaragan Paola Rodelas Judy Relosimon Sandra Sagisi Nicole Velasco Jason Ubay Michi Villaruz NEIGHBOR ISLAND BUREAU Maui Kit Zulueta Jeremy Zane Big Island Mil Asuncion Jane Clement Dr. Margarita Hopkins Kauai Virgie Cruzada Liza Trinidad Marynell Valenzuela ADVERTISING SALES Marivic Aldaya Mary Cordero Annabel Cabebe Florence Tan McCollom Lydia Kamiya Joni Redick-Yundt Rudy Bautista Marynel Valenzuela CIRCULATION Florence Tan (Oahu) Ron Oshiro (Leeward Oahu) David Cordero (Maui) Marynel Valenzuela (Kauai) Milli Asuncion (Big Island) LEGAL COUNSEL Alfredo Evangelista, Esq. Atty. Ernesto Urbano (Phils.)
THE FIL-AM COURIER is published twice a month by OAHU RELOCATION SERVICES located at 2221 Liliha St. Honolulu, Hawaii 96817 Opinions expressed by the columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Fil-Am Courier. Publisher reserves the right to edit letters to the editor and other material submitted. Reproduction of material and ads appearing in the Fil-Am courier is forbidden without written permission. All photos submitted become the property of the FilAm Courier.
Telephone: 808.595.8787 Facsimile: 808.595.6883 E-Mail: courier@lava.net www.filamcourier.net M
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By BENNETTE ESPINELI MISALUCHA
My heart aches. My soul cries. There is so much pain and suffering in the world. The news seems to always be dominated by hate crimes and acts of terrorism in the US and elsewhere. I know of at least two people who are battling a life-threatening disease. The reality of homelessness confronts us as we drive around Honolulu and witness the plight of people trying to muddle through their daily lives. Some are navigating the sad journey of broken families as they face transitions and a new way of life. Add to this mixour shared postelection mentalilty as the country tries to recover from all the vitriolic rhetoric hurled by opposing candidates. And I’m not just talking just about the Presidential elections–even on the county level, the amount of engagement during the last election was so intense, the passion so inflamed, that communities had been torn asunder; polarized factions cannot seem to come together even though the race is done. What is the common element amongst these situations? It is the need for healing. Whether it’s religious extrimemism, debilitating health issues, economic challenges (in the case of homelessness) or families in crisis, healing is a natural step towards renewal and ultimately, towards survival. Within our Filipino community in Hawaii, the political dynamics during the elections were equally divisive. We pushed hard with our advocacies, including this paper. With the blood of the fierce Lapulapu flowing in our veins, it is easy to see ourselves as warriors who are eager to continue the struggle, willing to hunker down for the long term. But the truth is: this type of attitude will not serve us well as a people. This is not to say that we could not be true to our convictions. No, we have the right to continue to believe in the platforms of our preferred parties. We should never miss the opportunity to express our sentiments about a particular
issue. These are all essential elements of a democracy. BUT, what we cannot let ourselves become is each other’s enemy. We are not allowed to be disrespectful, to be rude, to forget the values we learned from our mothers who were reared in the Old Country. We are forbidden to follow the examples of others who believe the present environment gives them license to hate, to disavow association with people who are not like themselves. How does a community heal? It is certainly a question that is very complex and I am by no means an expert. I am not qualified to offer long term solutions because the truth is, there may be none. Not one that has a 100% result. But in my readings, what seems to have the most promise is as simple as a dialogue. Yes, it means talking to one another, and listening. It means, in local terms: talking story. Here is what Robert R. Stains Jr, the author of “Repairing the Breach: The Power of Dialogue to Heal Relationships and Communities” (Journal of Public Deliberation: Vol. 10: Iss. 1, Article 7. Available at: http:// www.publicdeliberation.net/jpd/ vol10/iss1/art7) wrote in describing the chasms that tear us apart: “Municipalities, workplaces, communities of faith, even families are torn apart by disputes and misunderstandings about gender, race, politics, sexual orientation, socio-economic status and religion, among other things. There is a great need for healing.
When the common ground cracks and the gulf between people grows, they often retreat to fortresses of certainty. In these castles, the inside walls are black-and-white and the narrow, clouded windows that overlook the chasm distort the light, admitting only a partial view. The drawbridge is raised, so “they” can be vilified and the purity of “us” can be preached. Meanwhile the chasm widens, deepens and fills with trash: old tires, garbage, industrial waste. The only things that grow in the breach are weeds: thick, tall weeds with woody stems and spiky blades that leave you bleeding if you attempt to cross. Venturing there–attempting direct connection–is too painful. It is much easier to stay in the castle and deepen the story of “Them” and “Us.” Mr. Stains goes on further to add: “Families, organizations and communities captured by this dynamic can be wounded and paralyzed for years, locked in a dance of avoidance and acrimony, silence and screaming, afraid to walk in the weeds, devoid of hope for anything better. Dialogue holds the promise of healing in all these contexts in which community is broken. The sense of community depends on the quality of relationships, and relationships grow from conversations.” Lastly, Mr. Stains describes the power of sharing stories: “Hope for relationship and community healing comes when dialogue focuses on personal stories, emotions and identities. It can counter the effects of the stories told of others that shred relational and communal bonds and the emotions that inflame or imprison. (Black,
2008; Freedman & Combs, 2009; Seikkula& Trimble, 2005). In faceto-face dialogue, participants have the opportunity to edit and add to the stories that are told about them, changing the ways that they are seen. As Black has observed, it is “…through telling and responding to personal stories, group members craft their identities and take on others’ perspectives” (Black, 2008, p. 93). This experience of being witnessed is powerful and connecting. It opens receptivity to others’ stories, dilutes stereotypes and invites the heart as much as the mind. And heart-focus can transform enemies to friends (Eilberg, 2014; Palmer, 2011). As the Holiday approaches, we need to do more dialogue. Less posturing. Make more friends rather than enemies, Even as we remember the first Christmas story, we cannot undervalue the power of love and connections to heal us. Let us allow these strong concepts to bind us as a community. In this issue of the Fil-am Courier, we feature the recently installed President of the Oahu Filipino Community Council, Leo Gozar. Gozar is a long-time Filipino community leader who has also devoted his life to showcasing the cultural aspects of what it means to be Filipino. As President of OFCC, the umbrella association of all Oahu-based Filipino unit organizations, Leo’s leadership will be key in ensuring unity amongst the Filipino community. Let’s give him our wholehearted support. Within our Filipino community, as well as outside of it, we pray that there will be peace on earth. And in our hearts and deeds, let us all sow goodwill towards men. On behalf of the Courier family as well as my own (including my children Christian and Danielle), we wish you the best of the Holiday season! Maligayang Pasko sa inyong lahat!
PAGE 4 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016
By MARY CORDERO ABOUT OUR COVER
Our cover feature is a profile of the recently installed President of the Oahu Filipino Community Council, Leo Gozar, whose colorful life has taken him to places, literally around the globe. Photo credit of the cover photo is to the talented Gabe de Liso of Contemporary Photos. Cover concept by Noah Felipe of Orig Media. Maraming Salamat po to Jeff Orig. Both Jeff and Noah can be reached at www.origmedia.com or at 808-447-9559
Recognized as event producer of “Pamana Art Exhibit” by Councilmen Menor and Manahan
"Leo Rojas Gozar's work is one that I consider a Signature of Quality and mainstream material. He has elevated the Filipino American experience in Culture, Arts, and Theatrical productions to a new and higher level of exceptional artistry." Larry Ordonez - Radio/TV personality and Real Estate Developer. Gozar’s works always begin with bravura- an overenthusiastic voice over announcer, introducing: “Live…..at the Coral Ballroom.” There’s an interplay of strobes, uplights, and gobos, and a vibrant and pulsating opening number. This is followed by an intelligently conceived script, and performed by brilliant and select singers and dancers. The program flows smoothly following a strict timeline that is well-paced and on the dot. “Leo is always serious in his commitment to events that he produces and directs. His shows start punctually on time, run smoothly, and end as scheduled”, Mrs. Maria
Etrata affirmed. “His dedication to his craft is admirable, giving us, his benefactors, confidence that our projects are in good hands”, she added. As much as Gozar the artist comes across as subversive and egotistical, the real-life Gozar could win the title for the most cordial and hardest-working man in community affairs. He not only works a day job, he’s the hands-on executive producer and runs Vogue Pygmalion Productions and seldom turns down an opportunity to help a charitable organization. He’s a perennial event producer, host and voice over actor whose work includes thirty annual pageants, award shows, fashion extravaganzas and costume balls. For years, Gozar has exploited his penchant for progressive ideas in community building through cultural and creative undertakings. He is owner and president of Vogue Pygmalion Hawaii (VPH), with an
input of 2 major productions a year such as “Lady in Red Ball’, and KARAT fashion parade. VPH also does set designs and execution for a dozen shows, and serves as consultant to many. Gozar has the singular distinction of producing and directing the major Filipino scholarship pageants in a single yearMiss Hawaii Filipina, Miss Oahu Filipina, Mrs. Hawaii Filipina, Miss Teen Hawaii Filipina, Little Miss Philippines Hawaii. In the past, Gozar served as Commissioner of the Filipino Centennial Celebration Commission, chairing the Festivals of Culture and Arts Committee, and had provided pro bono services to the following Filipino events: Filipino Community Center Inaugural Gala Show “Pasinaya”; Presidential Banquets for the visits of Presidents Estrada, Ramos, Arroyo & Aquino; the 2 Mabuhay Inaugurals and Farewell Gala for Governor Ben Cayetano; and Philippine
THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016 • PAGE 5
Consulate’s Independence Day Celebrations. Of course Leo is well-versed in putting together calendar of activities. To quote an article in the 2006 First Hawaiian Bank’s annual report, “…Filipinos commemorated their centennial anniversary with a year-long celebration including 130 events on every major island in the state. Overseeing this impressive calendar was Leo Rojas Gozar, the ebullient culture czar for Hawaii’s Filipino community.” Scorpio Rising Leo Rojas Gozar is a Scorpio rising native. Born in the cusp of Scorpio and Sagittarius, he typifies the qualities described. “He is difficult to live with, but a joy to love”, his wife Mimi says. “I am surprised that he’s telling you his life story knowing how private he is.” “Scorpio rising people value their privacy so much, it can border on paranoia. They have a strong need to control their environment and are experts at strategy. Rarely people who will blow their chances with impatience, they plan out their moves carefully and deliberately, relying on their awesome ability to feel out others and situations.” This description was taken straight from a Zodiac source. Born in Calapan City, Or. Mindoro, Leo is the third living sibling among eight in a family of ten. His father, Tomas dela Torre Gozar was an accountant and his mother, Leonida Rojas was a first grade teacher. He learned his ABC’s from his Inay and his focus from his Tatay. Lights… Camera… Action At 9, Gozar had an omen of
Dancing “Paseo de Iloilo” in Malaysia Holiday Inn
Recognized as event producer of “Pamana Art Exhibit” by Councilmen Menor and Manahan
Performing at the Honolulu Hale during the 1st PCCCH Independence Day Gala
what’s to become of him. On Saturday afternoons, he would invite the neighbors’ kids for an afternoon of homemade puppet movies. He would cut out figures from “komiks” mounted them on cardboards, and put stick handles on them. He framed 2’ X 3’ white fabric to serve as screen, and installed lighted candles in the back of it to project images onto the “screen”. He turned off the lights and in darkness begun telling stories he concocted from various materials. He provided dialogues, voices, and sound effects that thrilled his audience who reacted wildly since he chose hor-
ror stories, and you know what those stories do to children. Fast forward to college. At the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Leo enrolled in pre-medicine hoping to obey his parents’ wishes to be another doctor in the family, (older sister Teresita is an optometrist, and youngest sister Maria Leonida is a dentist). Later into the course, Gozar discovered that he has a different passion in life. He told his dad he wanted to be in performing arts, and in fact, he realized just how hard it is to be in a field of study that does not excite you. On his second year at the
With Designer Gozum and Cabaret Director Derek Daniels
College of Arts and Sciences, his mother passed on and he decided to shift to Speech and Drama, a desire he had been covertly nurturing. After getting an approval from his father whose reaction was at best tepid, Leo embarked onto a career in theater, films and television. He belonged to the first batch of students of Behn Cervantes, an awarded stage, TV and film director. Under his tutelage Leo learned the fundamentals of theater production, acting, directing, writing and set design. He was cast in Behn’s production of “Queen and
the Rebels”, where he acted with TV director Maria Montelibano, and film producer, Tony Gloria. When he joined Pi Omicron Fraternity, they produced a trilogy of one-act plays called “Banyuhay” written by progressive playwrights at the university. There were many years in the early days of his artistic journey when Leo would dabble in minor projects that proved beneficial in the long run. “I was in a short-lived television cultural- musical show in the likes of “Aawitan Kita” on Channel 7 (now GMA),” Leo relates. “I was also the artistic director of Larawan Cultural Troupe, and dance and drama consultant at the now defunct Nayong Pilipino Village.” Footloose and Fancy Free When Leo was 7 years old, he declared, “I am going around the world”, when asked what he would like to do when he grew up. This declaration turned out to be his pipedream subsequent to watching a re-run of “Around the World in 80 Days”. Around the world he did travel. His break into the realization of a dream came when he discovered that he was a better dancer than singer. After dabbling in elementary school programs and performing Filipino traditional dances, he graduated to the Filipiniana Dance Troupe at the University of the Philippines. There he met and trained with Philippine National Artist in Dance, Ramon Obusan to whom he owed his cultural and artistic awakening. As his protégée, Obusan taught Leo the rudiments of choreographing a dance from raw researches with which Ramon had a cache of. This led to his au-
Always innovative and well-attended, Leo makes events a celebration. Shown, Mrs. Etrata FCCH Inaugural
PAGE 6 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016
dition to the country’s national treasure, the Bayanihan Philippine Dance Company. Furthermore, this stint would open doors to the more exciting world of cultural missions around the globe. First stop was Taipei on his stopover to Agana, Guam, where Bayanihan was the featured cultural performers during the opening of San Miguel Brewery Guam. In 1972, Leo was part of BayanihanKarilagan one month stint at the Hong Kong Hilton that introduced him to a later venture, the cultural fashion show genre. The declaration of martial law in the Philippines however cut short their trip and they had to return back to Manila. Gozar’s work ethic was honed early on while preparing for a longer contract to work in Osaka, Japan as an entertainment director and the leader of an 18-member cultural group. He oversaw the production requisites, looked into the needs of the ensemble cast, and even managed the personal and business aspect of the company. From Japan, Leo flew to Hong Kong for a 3-month observation and sabbatical leave, taking a
Philippine Cultural Group in Shirahama Onsen, Osaka Japan
breather to life-changing experiences in Europe. London in the mid-seventies was a crucial and riveting city to be in. It is especially a pivotal component in Gozar’s European sojourn. He lived in Earl’s Court, a district where students shared flats close to Central London. He would take the “Tube” (London’s railway) to and from downtown Regent Street, where he observed arts and theater classes. Living in London afforded him the luxury of watching world-class West End musicals and productions and visited museums and arthouses. On long weekends, Gozar with his friends would take the ferry at Dover, crossed the English Channel to Ostende in Brussels. Back then, the underwater tunnel was under construction. The group
would take train tours, drove on the Autostrada del Sole and excursion to places he only read about. From Belgium to Germany, from Austria, Hungary, Italy to Spain, Portugal, Calais France, and back to London. These travels became stimulating and learning encounters and served as a second education phase for Leo. Back in the Philippines, he joined, directed and co-produced fashion shows and stage plays with Roxanne Lapus such as “Lovers and Other Strangers”, “The Premier Showing”, which featured top designers of that time- Nena Lapus, Slim’s and Ben Farrales. Designer Tony Abeto commissioned him to produce “Kariktan”, as part of the “balikbayan” program that brought him to Anaheim, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Toronto.
Enjoying his first snow frolic in Nagoya, Japan
The Asian leg of the tour visited Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Kuching, Bali, Bangkok and New Delhi, a promotion of Holiday Inn Hotels. Paradise Gained In the spring of 1979, Gozar, with his employer’s family, embarked on a cross-country trip around the US Mainland calling on most of the major American cities and finally landing in Honolulu, Hawaii. The Hawaii branch of the company needed help in its many projects and he had to stay for a longer period. Leo met his future wife Mimi through his co-workers during a private party. He married her in 1981 and decided to stay put in Hawaii, a move he never thought would come. As Leo rationalizes,
With Ms. Maggie Domingo
he lost his freedom but gained paradise and an angel. He worked as a men’s buyer at Ritz Stores; Division Merchandise Manager at CKC Ltd. Gem Stores; and General Merchandise Manager with Peacock Partners. As a store planner, Leo was responsible for the physical set up of the stores, worked with architects and
THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016 • PAGE 7
Consul General Rolando Gregorio presenting one of Leo’s many recognitions. Looking on is Mrs. Gregorio
At the Milan Cathedral, Italy
Dwarfed by the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
Opened Philippine Arts and Handicrats Outlet in Agana, Guam
interior designers. He bought merchandise together with his division buyers, travelled to showrooms and attended men’s and women’s markets. He also ministered the operations and budget outlooks of the company. Once again in the late eighties, creativity beckoned. He met FilAm Courier’s Director of Design Armand Busmente who asked him to be a staff of Hawaii's #1 ethnic newspaper. He served as LifeStyle columnist, Kalendaryo ng Bayan writer and eventually contributing editor. Here Leo’s penchant for story telling was very evident in his articles. The 1991 Typhoon “Iniki” caused yet another setback in Leo’s career blueprint. The devastation caused several of their stores to go underwater or simply damaged the merchandise beyond selling. Despite industry and insurance assistance, their company bellied up and filed for bankruptcy protection. Gozar was jobless for the first time since he moved to Hawaii. But as the old adage goes, “when one door closes, another opens up.” An opportunity opened indeed. Gozar suddenly realized that he has a vocation to fall back on. He is after all a seasoned creative professional and a well-trained events planner. Immediately he put on his sales and marketing hat and started selling his ideas. He established his company Main Events Hawaii which is now Vogue Pygmalion Hawaii. It has its ups and downs as many startups experience growing pains, but in 25
years, it has grown to become the source of quality stage, events, and theatrical productions. Art, culture and youth- three of his advocacies came into fore when he formed Larawan Youth Ensemble, a performing arts group composed of 6 to 12 year old Filipino American children. He trained them on folk dance and songs which culminated in a two-hour dance concert at the Hawaii Theatre. He also worked with the Pearl City High School Filipino Club producing cultural recitals for five years. Eventually he decided to work in a more stable environment at Honolulu Hale. Having been asked by his boss, Representative Romy M. Cachola to be his legislative aide. It was there the struggling artist finally began his noble career in public service where he was able to help constituents in their district find solutions to their everyday concerns. The following year, Leo moved to the Hawaii State Capitol with his boss having won a seat in the House and offered him to be his chief of staff breaking more prospects for him to make a difference in people’s lives. This undertaking plus his fresh mindset regarding community service compelled him to accept the presidency of the Oahu Filipino Community Council (OFCC), something he has never given any thought in the past. He and his board that includes Rev. Alex Vergara, OFCC immediate past president has a plateful of projects that hope to enhance the visibility
In London’s Trafalgar Square
Winter in Nara, Japan
of OFCC as the umbrella organization of about 70 member units. Gozar is inviting new members as well as former members who had chosen to go on sabbatical due to one reason or another. OFCC has adopted a positive battle cry, “Hapi Lang” (Be Happy) and aims to be a role model for other groups to be respectful, supportive, and affirmative. In the words of the former program director of Philippine Village, “As Leo conceptualizes, Filipino American events in Hawaii materializes.” His signature becomes a seal of quality and confidence.
By the Swiss Alps
In Lucerne, Switzerland
PAGE 8 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016
OAHU FILIPINO COMMUNITY COUNCIL & FOUNDATION Membership Roster 2016 (Updated October 1, 2016) 1. ELMA TIERRA 2. *MARY JEAN CASTILLO 3. FE EDITHA VELASCO 4. PACITA SALUDES 5. CESAR CAOILI 6. GUS CONCEPCION 7. ANGEL DYTIOCO 8. VERONICA ESTEBAN 9. ROGER URBI 10. GLADYS MENOR 11. GRACE GO 12. *JAKE NAVASCA 13. JOE QUIBUYEN 14. TRINI SANGA 15. JESSE PASCUAL
Adult Foster Homes of the Pacific Aklanon Association of Hawaii ALWAD AnnaktiKailokuaniti America AnnaktiBatac of Hawaii AnnaktiSinaititi Hawaii Bulacan Circle & Associates of Hawaii Cabugao Sons and Daughters of Hawaii Cagayan Valley Association of Hawaii Calayab Association of Hawaii Candonians of Hawaii Cebuano Association of Hawaii Confederation of Ilocano Associations Samahang Ilokano (CIA-SI) Hawaii Chapter Confederation of Ilocano Associations Samahang Ilokano (CIA-SI)Waikiki Chapter
16. JAKE MANEGNEG 17. NANCY WALCH 18. STEPHANIE CHUNG 19. BERNADETTE FAJARDO 20. NELLY PONGO LIU 21. FROEBEL GARCIA 22. RIZAL FERNANDEZ 23. ROSE GALANTO 24. GUS LONGBOY 25. DANNY VILLARUZ 26. EDDIE AGAS, SR. 27. BEN PULIDO 28. E. MOLINA 29. LEO ROJAS GOZAR 30. CONRAD VALDRIZ 31. RUDY NEBREJA 32. IMELDA FORMOSO 33. MARLEEN SIONA 34. LOUIE FUNTANILLA 35. FROEBEL GARCIA 36. JANICE SEVILLA 37. RAMON SUMIBCAY 38.LETTY SABAN 39. MAYROSE BORROMEO40. ERNIE PASCUA 41HEIDI LUARCA 42. CLAUDIO CAGAOAN, JR. 43. ALICE CASTANEDA 44. DAVELYN QUIJANO 45. ERLINDA SANCHEZ 46. RONNIE AGUSTIN 47. MARIA AF ETRATA 48. AURELIO AGCAOILI 49. MARYLYN VILLAR 50. ESTHER PASCUAL 51. MERELLE GONZALES-
Divine Word College of Laoag Alumni Association of Hawaii Fil-American Citizen’s League Filipino Business Women’s Association Filipino Nurses Organization of Hawaii Filipino Women’s Civic Club Foundation Filipino Women’s Club Foundation GUMIL Hawaii GUMIL Oahu Hawaii Association of Filipino Travel Agents INCAT IlocosSurianAssociaton of Hawaii International Filipino Society of Hawaii Kalayaan Phil- Hawaii International Kapamilya of Hawaii (KATHA) La Union Circle Lunarians of Hawaii Magsingal Association of Hawaii Member To Member Movement Narvacan Association of Hawaii Pasuquinio Association of Hawaii Philippine Cultural Foundation of HI Philippine Nurses Association of Hawaii Philippine Women’s Civic Club RIMAT ti Burgos Association of Hawaii San Nicolas Goodwill Foundation San Nicolas Teachers Association San Nicoleneos of Hawaii San Juan Lapog Association of Hawaii Sinait Nat. High School Alumni Asso. of HI The Filipino Hotel Workers Organization The New Marcos Town Association of HI The Primary Care Providers of Hawaii TMI Global Tri-Star Line Group United Group of Care Home Operators United Laoaguenos of Hawaii
52. JOHN RAMOS 53. AMALIA MP GOZAR 54. TESSIE AGANON
United Vintarinians of Hawaii Urdaneta City Community Alliance Vigan Association of Hawaii
664-5164 979-5490 222-7436 292-8105 782-9341 638-1699 625-9370 590-4848 729-5096 385-3951 389-1989
elmatierra@gmail.com mjcastillo2011@yahoo.com fevelasco327@yahoo.com
256-6399
jgquibuyen@yahoo.com
384-4946
ereyes@wsvhotel.com; tsanga@trumphotels.com
225-3388 778-3832 642-8090 228-7808
294-1446 / 421-7381 778-0233 783-3327 421-9747
To say that the Oahu Filipino Community Council (OFCC) has a hand in each of the Filipino
csr_caoili@yahoo.com Investors8008@yahoo.com angie6996789@yahoo.com vsucen@yahoo.com cvah@hawaii.rr.com menor330@gmail.com rnhgvgo@aol.com Jake-nav@yahoo.com
jessepascual@hawaii.rr.com 833-1429 or 524-6993 walchnancy@yahoo.com Fnoh1972@gmail.com bernafajardo@gmail.com nellyliu88@gmail.com Froebelgarcia07@aol.com aloha@hawaii.rr.com c_longboy@yahoo.com dannyvillaruz@gmail.com kbmcagas@yahoo.com bpulidovip808@yahoo.com
organizations on Oahu is an understatement. OFCC’s, as a whole, purpose is to “perpetuate the Filipino cultural heritage; to unite all Filipinooriented organizations for the common welfare of the whole community; to enhance individual and group worth; and to encourage all Filipinos and/or Americans of Filipino ancestry to develop a stronger sense of
individual
responsibility
and and
collective a
greater
participation in the affairs of the community of Hawaii as a whole.” OFCC was established in 1959 and serves as the umbrella organization of all Filipino community organizations
630-6268 953-8888 551-3035 227-5201
voguepygmalion@gmail.com cvaldriz555@yahoo.com
in the island of Oahu in Hawaii. OFCC
melulangca@yahoo.com
375-6449
lfuntanilla@vothi.com Froebelgarcia07@aol.com Itsjanice808@gmail.com rasumibcay@aol.com lettysaban@yahoo.com mayroseb01@gmail.com
Oahu Filipina Scholarship Pageant since 1973. It was conceived at first
305-9755 375-8933 / 489-7148 636-6578 286-5474 689-7141 230-4095 230-0376 306-9427 392-2962
is also known for hosting the Miss
as an annual Fiesta project in 1973. Along with their overall involvement in all the Filipino community organizations, OFCC also runs
acastaneda808@gmail.com ragustin@coscohawaii.com rvmae@aol.com
various civic and community project, including, but not limited to: Adopt a Highway, Adopt a Park, feeding the homeless, supporting the Hawaii Food Bank, and hosting various
842-0227 386-3476 312-0778
mrs.speedy@ymail.com; merellegonzales@yahoo.com Jcramos416@aol.com manzanocollection@yahoo.com tessiefaganon@yahoo.com;
fundraisers for natural disasters and other calamities that affect the Philippines.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016 • PAGE 9
By Dr. RICKIE CAMARA
I am NOT going to write another article about the holidays and stress. NO, Editor, please do not even ask me. Just thinking of handwriting an article about holiday stress is honestly making me go haywire! But, I know what you mean about this time of the year when everything seems to happen in a blur, when everything seems to go so fast: the feeling of time slipping out of our grasp. The funny thing is that we get stressed when we feel we are running out of time; but in reality, we cannot even observe time as it is not a tangible thing in itself. We can only observe events and perceive them in a framework of motion; i.e. of passing. There is the event of birth and there is the event of death; and in-between is the ‘time of our life.’ We feel busier and stressed when we have more events in our lives to attend to. In fact, the word ‘busy’ originally meant “anxious, careful” and later meant to “be continually employed or occupied.” And these days, aren’t our minds continuously preoccupied courtesy of our smart phones? People all over the world now check their social media (email, text, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.) a staggering 17 40 times a day! The brain processes these as ‘events,’ swamping our attention and contributing to our sense of ‘busyness.’ So although time is not a ‘thing’ we can control, we can manipulate it by either decreasing the number of events that happen or by slowing down time’s sense of movement, of flow, of passage. The former is why some people just go away for the holidays; not only do they decrease the number of events to attend with family and friends, but they can ascertain that, while away, they can spend that time with their loved ones with whom they travel. At an inner level, thoughts are ‘events.’ And the more thoughts you have racing through your head, the busier you feel, especially if these
thoughts are riddled with worries and fears. This is why meditation is such a good stress-reducing technique. You simply learn to sit still, focus on your breath, and observe those thoughts come and go. Each time the mind wanders away (which it will), you simply bring it back to the breath. And soon you will notice your thoughts not only slow down, but they actually decrease, sometimes to a point of singular focus. This then brings a sense of calm, peace and balance within you. Sweet slowness indeed…! Alas, the fast life is all around us - fast food, fast cars, fast conversations on social media, fast hook-ups, etc. We forget to linger, to really live, and consequently we feel off-kilter; the word being derived from “kelter” meaning “good health or good condition.” Yes, the cost of ignoring stress, of not being balanced and at ease, is enormous. Stress accelerates degeneration in every
organ system contributing to strokes, heart attacks, obesity, diabetes, sleep problems, dementia, etc. Anxiety, depression, and suicide are its psychological consequences. And the only solution is to slow down and be present in the moment, be present in your life. I am encouraged that there is a budding ‘slow movement’ that has taken root and is sprouting around the world; a movement that espouses mindfulness in slow living, slow food, slow cities, slow money and slow loving. There is even an organization, One Taste, that teaches a practice that combines the “power and attention of meditation with the deeply human, deeply felt, and connected experience of orgasm.” A sweet slowness indeed..! One reason slowing down time is so sweet is because it gives you a taste of eternity. Living slowly and living mindfully means living in the present moment; and living
in the moment means living wholly with mind and body being at the same place at the same time. We can really only experience the present. We have to cognitively create a ‘past’ and a ‘future’ in our minds. What we have are memories and images of what to expect; and the act of recalling these stored memories or visualizing these images occur in the present. There is no ‘past’ or ‘future’ laid out along a ‘time line’ as a real thing. There is really out there only the present where we experience events in motion. For St. Augustine, the purpose of ‘time’ is to be caught up into this eternal present to the extent that we can experience it while still bound by physical laws. He wrote that if the ‘present’ were perpetually present, there would be no longer any time, but eternity. And to taste eternity is to taste God who transcends time; who has no beginning and no end. A sweet, sweet Slowness indeed..!
I could write about eternity, but it would take forever. I could write about infinity, but it would have no end. And that would be rude to you as most of us conceptualize time as a ‘resource,’ i.e. like money. So in that frame of mind, I hope I have not ‘wasted’ your time; that you ‘budgeted’ enough time to read this; and that this was ‘worth’ your time. Truly, the slower you live your life, the sweeter your life, and the ‘richer’ you will be in what is really important. Namaste.
Dr. Rickie Camara is a Board-Certified psychiatrist and Bikram Yoga teacher. He teaches yoga classes at Hotyoga8 in Kaimuki. He has a yoga-aligned health coaching and counseling practice in Kahala. You can hear him every Friday on the radio at KNDI between 8 and 8:30 a.m. on the Medical Forum with FlorMartinez . Email contact at rickiec@pixi.com.
PAGE 10 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016
By RHODA YABES ALVAREZ, Esq.
In the aftermath of the U.S.presidential election, what can we expect? With President elect Donald Trump’s pronouncements on his immigration policy, we address the following questions which our readers may also have in mind. Question: I am an illegal alien. I came into the country as a tourist and failed to maintain my lawful status. What can I expect in the coming new administration? Will I be removed automatically? Answer: Don’t panic. At this early, the new administration is not yet in place and the best thing to do is to gather facts and know your rights depending on the particulars of your case. There is a path towards gaining legal status with proper guidance. Be careful not to fall victim to scammers or notarios who will prey on your confusion and anxiety from the elections results. The smart thing to do is to
Post Election Immigration Impact consult a qualified immigration attorney to analyze your case and provide options on what remedies are available to lead you towards valid status depending on your particular case. Question: I am an immigrant working in Waikiki. In our workplace, there has been discussion on the strict anti-immigrant policy of the coming new administration. Is there anything I need to do to avoid potential immigration problems? Answer: There is a path towards citizenship that immigrants can take to fortify their status in the United States. An immigrant may
be at risk of removal if you commit an act or acts that make you removable or inadmissible to the U.S. Now may be a good time to apply for citizenship. There are immigrants who may have derived citizenship from their parents by birth or by naturalization and do not know it or do not have evidence of their status. There are immigrants who can qualify for citizenship on their own. To find out what path to citizenship is available to you or whether you are already a U.S citizen and do not know about it, consult a qualified immigration attorney. Question: I am an immigrant with a past criminal conviction for a minor offense
which resulted in probation. President-elect Trump has said he wants to detain or deport 2-3 million “criminal aliens”. What can I do to avoid my removal from the United States? Answer: Many so-called “criminal aliens” have convictions for very minor offenses, and are not threats to public safety or national security. There available reliefs and remedies for those who are facing removal charges. There are also available remedies for those who have not been charged with removability but are willing to identify remedies to fix their status. The present Obama administration, by executive actions, has put in place “prosecutorial discretion” as an enforcement policy to focus deportation efforts on actual threats. It is too early to say whether President elect Trump’s administration will continue the policy or change it altogether. Notwithstanding his course of action, there are present remedies available under existing law available for those who wish to apply. To find out what reliefs you qualify for depending on the nature of your crime, consult a qualified immigration attorney. Question: I am an illegal alien brought into the United States as a child. The first time I learned of my illegal status was in high school when I was applying for a driver’s license. I have heard of the Obama
administration’s program of Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals (DACA), however, I did not apply for fear of what would happen to the program after President Obama steps out of office. What will be the status of DACA applicants under President-elect Trump’s administration? Answer: As of June 30, 2016, USCIS has approved close to 750,000 DACA applications since 2012.The DACA program granted employment authorization and valid social security numbers to qualified applicants. It is too early to say what the next administration will do regarding DACA and the smart thing to do is to wait for policy developments. Meanwhile, there may be present available reliefs to fix your unlawful status. To find out what reliefs you qualify for depending on your background, consult a qualified immigration attorney. (Source: AILA Doc. No. 16111800 | Dated November 18, 2016) Rhoda Yabes Alvarez, Esq. is an attorney with offices in Honolulu and the Philippines. She is licensed to practice law in Hawaii, New York and the Philippines. Atty. Yabes Alvarez can be reached at 1-808-589-7380 or by email at rmyalvarez@filamlaw.com. Her Honolulu office is located at 905 Umi St. Suite 204, Honolulu, HI 96819. Visit her website at www.filamlaw.com
THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016 • PAGE 11
By BRANDON ELEFANTE Council Member City and County of Honolulu
Thank you to all of you who exercised your right to vote in this past General Election. And you get an extra dose of gratitude for voting on all 20 City Charter Amendments. How Charter Amendment #5 will help build more affordable housing One of the 20 City Charter Amendments near and dear to my heart is City Charter Amendment 5. I introduced this amendment to help address current problems with the underutilized Affordable Housing Fund and expand the options for the use of the money in the fund. Prior to the passage of this amendment, the income limits for residents of Affordable Housing Fund-assisted dwellings was less than 50 percent of the median household income, and any Affordable Housing Fund-assisted dwellings had to remain affordable in perpetuity. These two requirements don’t match the reality of current affordable housing development in our state because other Federal and State funds have a requirement that affordable housing be built for those making 60 percent or less of the median household income and because many of the parcels available for affordable housing development cannot be deeded to a developer in perpetuity. With these former restrictive parameters on the use of the fund, the City was not able to build the affordable housing units that are so desperately needed in our community.
Now, with the passage of City Charter Amendment 5, the City will be able to use the fund, which had a balance of $34,691,602 as of June 30, 2016. This means more affordable housing residences for people who need them the most. And with the annual deposit of half a percent of all real property tax revenue being deposited into the Affordable Housing Fund, it will continue to grow at approximately $5 million per year. Parks are us In the past, I have written about how we must “malama” or take care of our parks. Since I’ve taken office, several of our area parks in Council District 8 have been updated. In 2015, both Waipahu Uka Neighborhood Park and Pearlridge Community Park saw their play apparatuses and play apparatus surfaces refurbished. In early 2016, the play apparatus and play apparatus surface were refurbished at Pacific Palisades Community Park. Kaonohi Neighborhood Park will also have its play apparatus and surface refurbished this year. Two parks with broken play equipment are programmed in a Department of Parks and Recreation priority list for repair in 2017, and they are Waimalu District Park and Waiau District Park. Construction at the Manana Neighborhood Park Swimming Pool is now complete, and the pool is slated to re-open on December 1, 2016. Please note that the pool will be open on selected days depending on lifeguard availability while the City works on staffing. I inserted money into this year’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budget for a master plan of Hans L’Orange Neighborhood Park because I believe that improvements at this park could benefit the wider community. I also inserted money into last year’s CIP budget to convert the tennis courts at Waipio Neighborhood Park into basketball courts and volleyball courts. The update of the court layout is currently in design and then will go out to bid for construction. I will continue to budget parks improvements in Council District 8 and follow these projects as they move through the CIP process of
The Honolulu City Council recognized Aiea Bowl on its 50th Anniversary at the November 2 Full Council Meeting. Joining the Councilmembers are Aiea Bowl Founder Mako Kobayashi and current owner Chef Glenn Uyeda.
Councilmember Elefante joins Mayor Kirk Caldwell (center), Representative Gregg Takayama (left), Robert Sato from Senator Breene Harimoto’s Office (far right), and community members (left to right) Albert Fukushima, Kelsey Poaha, and Claire Tamamoto at the groundbreaking of the Pearl Highlands Rail Station.
planning, design, and construction. Crime mapping now includes violent crimes As Chair of the Public Health, Safety & Welfare Committee at the Honolulu City Council, I recently had a presentation by the Honolulu Police Department (HPD) on crime mapping. At that meeting, HPD announced that they will add more crime categories to the mapping feature on their department’s website. In addition to the property crimes such as auto theft that were already posted, HPD has added violent crimes such as arson, assault, homicide, and sex crimes. Please note that the icons on the website indicate where the crime was reported, not necessarily where the crime occurred. You can access the website at www.honolulupd.org and click on Crime Mapping on the right side of the screen beneath “Statistics Reports.” On the next page, you will see an icon with your location. You can click on “where” to zoom in or move your mouse to look at crime
statistics around O‘ahu. The default mapping is for one week, and you can adjust the timeline as far back as six months. You can also customize alerts to be sent to your email. Mahalo to HPD for providing the community with access to more information about their neighborhoods.
Community News As always, I would like to highlight happenings in our community through these photos. I wish each and every one you a happy holiday season! Brandon Elefante represents Honolulu City Council District VIII, which covers ‘Aiea - Pearl City - Waipahu. He can be reached at (808) 768-5008, and his email is belefante@honolulu.gov.
PAGE 12 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016
THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016 • PAGE 13
PAGE 18 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016
By NANCY BERNAL
Miss Hawaii USA 2017 - Julie Kuo and Miss Hawaii Teen USA 2017 - Lauren Teruya
Jordan Segundo with the Police Officers at The D.A.R.E. Thirty Year Anniversary Celebration
Al Waterson and Alex O'Loughlin ("Hawaii Five-0") at Egan Inoue's Book Launch Celebration
Egan Inoue is a world class athlete, a business owner, a professional keynote speaker and an author. After winning eleven world titles in three different sports – racquetball, Brazilian jiu jitsu and mixed martial arts, he knows there is no challenge you can’t overcome. In addition, he is the owner of Egan’s Fit Body Bootcamp and Training Centers and Egan’s CryoTherapy Hawaii Spa. And now, he has added an additional achievement to his impressive list of credits – Author of his first book – “Becoming Relentless”. In the words of Egan Inoue – “Being relentless is the key to achieving greatness.” Egan’s inspirational book can be purchased at www.EganInoue.com and twenty percent of all book sales will be donated to the Wounded Warrior Foundation to support the veterans. A book launch celebration to kick-off the release of “Becoming Relentless” was held on November 19 at Panya Bistro in Honolulu and hundreds of people attended including Alex O’Loughlin (Steve McGarrett in “Hawaii Five-0”). Al Waterson emceed the festivities. •••• The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Hawaii Share A Night Annual Gala was held on November 20 at The Sheraton Waikiki Hotel. Bob and Dianne Pereira were the honorees in recognition for their support throughout the years. Al Waterson
Egan Inoue with his new book - "Becoming Relentless"
was the Emcee for this special evening and the incredible entertainment line-up included Jordan Segundo, Casey Fortuno, Augie T, The Touch of Gold and Grant Carvalho –pianist. It was a beautiful evening for a great cause. •••• Nationally-acclaimed actor – Adrian R’Mante came to Hawaii to tape an episode of “Hawaii Five-0” where he had a principal role. Adrian’s list of acting credits includes “CSI”, “NCIS”, and other shows, but he is known most for his role of “Esteban” on The Disney Show - “The Suite Life of Zack and Cody” for six years. Adrian loves Hawaii and he will be doing more in the islands in 2017. •••• Terry Fator (Ventriloquist, Singer, Comedian and “America’s Got Talent” Champion) has one of the most popular shows in Las Vegas at The Mirage Hotel and on November 11 and 12, he brought his show to Honolulu at The Hawaii Theatre. It was a big success and he presented an excellent show, which received rave reviews. •••• Congratulations to Lauren Teruya – the newly-crowned Miss Hawaii Teen USA 2017 and Julie Kuo – Miss Hawaii USA 2017. Both ladies were selected for these prestigious titles on November 6 at The Hawaii Convention Center. ••••
Ron Darby, Carissa Moore and Denby Dung at The Pet Walk
THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016 • PAGE 19
Adrian R'Mante Liana Wright
Liana Wright and Zane Style House presents The Giveback Event – “A Winter Wonder-FurLand” on December 11 at The Hokulani Waikiki rooftop venue located at 2181 Kalakaua Avenue at 5 til 9 p.m. This holiday celebration will benefit The FurAngel Foundation, a dog-rescue organization based on Oahu. Hoku Award Winning Duo – Ben and Maila will perform and vocalist – Jordan Segundo will also entertain along with music by DJMOTIV3. Al Waterson will emcee. Fabulous prizes, live auction items, fashion shows, wine tastings along with a Hawaiian Santa will also be a part of this spectacular evening. And adoptable dogs from The FurAngel Foundation will be available – looking for their forever home. Tickets can be purchased at thegivebackevent.eventbrite.com •••• The Hawaiian Humane Society held their annual Pet Walk at Magic Island on October 30 where several thousand people participated with their pets. World Champion Surfer – Carissa Moore was one of the Celebrities that attended with her dog. Denby Dung – Host of The Pet Hui Television Show – also supported this fantastic event with her dog, Stitch. •••• The D.A.R.E. program presented by The Honolulu Police Department celebrated their thirty
Terry Fator and Al Waterson
year anniversary of promoting their “Stay Drug-Free” message to students in schools across the State of Hawaii. In honor of this great achievement, the police officers presented a day of fun, entertainment and inspirational messages at Pearlridge Shopping Center. Jordan Segundo has shown his support for this educational program for over thirteen years and was invited to headline the Anniversary Event. •••• The Honolulu Theatre for Youth presents a World Premiere of “A Plantation Celebration” (a collection of original scenes, stories, and songs that look back on a major chapter in Hawaii’s history) at Tenney Theatre on the grounds of The Cathedral of St. Andrew. The play is scheduled for December 3, 10 and 17 at 4:30 p.m. Tickets can be obtained by calling (808) 839-9885 or online at www.htyweb.org •••• Looking for a place to go on New Year’s Eve? Here are a few suggestions. 53 By The Sea will have a fabulous party overlooking the beautiful Waikiki skyline at 9 p.m til 1 a.m. featuring music by Jordan Segundo with Musical Group - Nueva Vida and Rocky Brown. Call (808) 536-5353 to purchase tickets. •••• The Lux New Year’s Eve Casino Royale Extravaganza at Trump Tower will bring in the New
Year with a big bang and a great view of the fireworks in Waikiki. The dance music will be non-stop at 8:30 p.m. til 1 a.m. with Al Waterson doing the countdown and singing Auld Lang Syne at Midnight. Lux Events presents this elaborate special event and tickets can be purchased at www.newyearsevehonolulu.com •••• Merry Christmas and I wish you a safe and healthy holiday season! Cherish your loved ones and take time to express gratitude to the ones that helped you during your life’s journey. ••••
Casey Fortuno and Jordan Segundo at The Ronald McDonald House Gala
Honolulu Theatre for Youth Cast of "A Plantation Celebration"
For now, That’s Entertainment! (If you would like to submit entertainment information, please contact Nancy Bernal at 947-5736 or e-mail her at NancyBernal @aol.com)
PAGE 20 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016
By ANGIE DYTIOCO SANTIAGO
First Trailblazer Award Recipient Anacleto (Lito) Alcantra and wife Carmelita.
Faye Cudal, Senator Clarence Nishihara, Representative Romy Cachola, Council Member Ron Menor, POTY 2015 Lorena & Bonifacio Guieb, POTY 2016 Helena Grace Villanueva Go, Anthony Go, Mayor Kirk Caldwell, Tia Go, Lovely Go, Kenneth Go, and Council Member Joey Manahan.
The valedictorians assembled for a group photo with elected officials and officers of the PCFH.
Philippine Cultural Foundation of Hawaii Honored Valedictorians Helena Grace Villanueva Go Named 2016 Parent of the Year Eddie Flores, Jr. Receives 2016 Trailblazer Award
The Philippine Cultural Foundation of Hawaii (PCFH) held its annual High School Valedictorians, Trailblazer, and Parents of the Year (POTY) Awards Banqueton August 26, 2016, atthe Empress Restaurant. This year, 18 outstanding valedictorians of Filipino ancestry Mayor Kirk Caldwell, PCFH's President Emeritus Maggie Domingo, Elaine Flores, were honored, and five outstanding 2016 Trailblazer Award Recipient Eddie Flores, Jr., Senator Clarence Nishihara, Council Parents of the Year (POTY) Member Ron Menor, 2015 Trailblazer Award Recipient Anacleto (Lito) Alcantra, Coun- nominees were recognized. Mr. cil Member Joey Manahan, Representative Romy Cachola, William Cudal, and PCFH's Eddie Flores, Jr. was selected as the President Janice Sevilla. Trailblazer Award’s second recipient. The parents were nominated for their sacrifices and perseverance in building strong families and encouraging their children to pursue higher education, serve the community, and have successful, productive, and rewardinglives. To be nominated for the award,at least Front Row: Gerald Rojo, II, Isidra Osalvo, Victoria Osalvo, and Jean Sumagit. three children must have attained a4Back Row: Grace Rojo, Gerry and Evelyn Rojo, Glory Rojo, and Melissa Rojo. year college degree. This year’s nominees were Herman “Gerry” and Evelyn Rojo, Timothy and Ailyn (Parubrub) Lum, Helena Grace Villanueva Go, Alejandro and Divina Bumanglag, and Abelardo and Diana Dela Cruz. Grace Villanueva Go was selected as the 2016 Parent of the The children and friends of POTY 2016 nominees Alejandro and Divina Bumanglag. Year award for her valiant efforts andoutstanding commitment to raising and providing for her five children under trying circumstances after the death of her late husband Ramon in 2008.Grace has provided her children a good example from her own life as she works as a successful medical professional while managing
to contribute to the local and Filipino community as well as to her hometown in Candon, Ilocos Sur. Grace’s children include: daughter Lovely, a board-certified, registered physical therapist; son Ramon, a board-certified anesthesiologist; son Kendrick with a BS degree with Honors in Molecular Cell Biology who is currently attending Sidney Kimmel Medical School on a U.S. Air Force full-tuition scholarship; son Kenneth who is in the U.H. Doctor of Medicine Early Acceptance Program; and daughter Tia, a senior at Damien Memorial School who aspires to become a dentist. POTYnomineesGerry and Evelyn Rojo are blessed with three children: Gerald, Grace, and Glory. Gerry has a BA in Political Science. He immigrated to Hawaii in 1974 from Ilocos Sur. He owns and operates the Gerry Rojo Driving School, Inc. Evelyn obtained her BS in Agriculture and Economics prior to immigrating to Hawaii in 1984. She is currently the Office and Accounting Manager for Pacific Preferred Contractors Corporation. POTY nominees Timothy Lum works as a Controller for Aloha Petroleum and his wife Ailyn Parubrub Lum is a Legal Clerk for the City’s Office of the Prosecuting Attorney. The Lums are blessed with four children -- Christopher, Mitchell, Daniel, and Marissa. Ailyn’s father Sergio H. Parubrub was among the last wave of sakadas (Filipino
POTY 2016 nominees Tim and Ailyn Lum with their supportive family and friends.
The family and friends of POTY nominee Grace Go were present to cheer her on as she was named POTY 2016.
Front Row: POTY 2016 Nominees: Gerry & Evelyn Rojo, Ailyn & Timothy Lum, Abelardo & Diana Dela Cruz, Grace Go, and Alejandro & Divina Bumanglag.
immigrant plantation workers) who came to Hawaii to seek a better life and greater opportunities. POTY nominee Alejandro Guira Bumanglag is from Laoag City, Ilocos Norte. Alejandro was a valedictorian at Filipinas Community High School (known today as San Nicholas National High School). He majored in Accounting atthe Divine World College of Laoag. Alejandro retired from the New York Life Insurance company in 2002. Divina Paguirigan Ulep Bumanglag graduated from the Divine World College at Laoag with a BA. She retired as a Nursing Aide at Ann Pearl Nursing Home in Kaneohe. Their three children are all college graduates -- Geraldine, Allen, and Beatriz. POTY nominee Abelardo Diana Dela Cruz is from Manaoag, Pangasinan. Abelardo graduated in 1970 with a BS in Commerce. A year later, Abelardo immigrated to Hawaii and worked 36 years for Duty Free Shops (DFS) starting as an entry level position and retiring as the Logistic Department Manager. His wife Diana immigrated to Hawaii in 1971 from Midsayap, Mindanao. Diana is currently an accountant with the State of Hawaii’s Department of Housing. The Dela Cruz’s have three grown children -- Geoffrey, Abbi, and Nicole. The 2016 Trailblazer Award went to Eddie Flores, Jr., the President & Chief Executive Officer of L&L Drive-Inn Restaurant and L&L Hawaiian Barbecue. Eddie immigrated to Hawaii at the age of 16. Eddie has distinguished himself as a successful entrepreneur and a community leader and activist. Even with over 190 L&L Drive-in locations, Eddiehas not forgotten his roots. He established the Filipino Fiesta and Parade in Hawaii and he was the prime mover in building and raising $14.2 million for the Filipino Community Center.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016 • PAGE 21
Amanda Herolaga, Shyloe Tote, Aizea Ranon and Casey Metrose
— Award Recipients at the Letter to My Parents™ Contest in Hawai‘i Waipahu, Nov. 19, 2016 The Final Presentation for the Letter to My Parents™ Contest in Hawai‘i was held on Saturday, November 19, 2016, during the “‘OhanaDay Celebration” presented by Reiyukai America where nine contestants recited their letters dedicated to their parents. The Contest is organized by the Kalamansi Books and Things, Sariling Gawa Youth Council, Inc., and Reiyukai America. A total of 187 letters from 21 different schools were submitted. The Organizing Committee invited nine contestants—Masar Abdeljawad, Maizie Distad, Amanda Herolaga, Casey Metrose, Aizea Ranon, Julienne Saladino, Hannah Smas ne, Timoteo Sumalinog, and Shyloe Tote— to present their letters to their parents, families, the general audience and the judges at the Hawaii’s Plantation Village in Waipahu, O‘ahu.
After the letters were read, the nine participants received a $50 Gift Certificate along a Certificate of Participation, Gift Certificate from Zippy’s, a Free Online E-book subscription with a free pizza coupon courtesy of Read 2 Succeed Foundation. Each of the contestants will be also receiving a “1 Year TestPrep Course Subscription” courtesy of BenchPrep. Based on the guidelines, the group of judges selected three award recipients. For this year’s contest the awards were presented to Amanda Herolaga for Bravery , Shyloe Tote for Reflection and AizeaRanon for Proposal. Each of them received a prize of $500. For this year, there was another award – “Spirit of Aloha” – which was awarded to Casey Metrose. Casey received a $200 Dinner Certificate courtesy of Suntory Restaurant in Waikiki.
The following valedictorians of Filipino ancestry were recognized and three (3) continuing scholarship awardees:
2016 VALEDICTORIANS OF FILIPINO ANCESTRY Valedictorian
High School
Parents
1. Tiffany Alfaro 2. Aaron Brandt 3. Jazmine Calixtro 4. Gabrielle Dang 5. Anna Davide 6. Jianna Orias 7. Rhea Quezon 8. Reginald Tolentino 9. Blessie Vergara 10. Jordan Abanto 11. Megan Andrada 12. Daisy Fernando 13. Melissa Guzon 14. Sharie Mamuad 15. Sally Millon
Leilehua Campbell Waianae Waipahu Mililani Moanalua Roosevelt Moanalua Leilehua Radford Waialua Farrington Damien Waipahu Waipahu
16. Michelle Mooney 17. Tiannah Ohta 18. Joshua Udasco
Waipahu Waipahu Waipahu
Larry & Rosalina Alfaro Jonathan & Pearl Brandt Jerry & Hilda Calixtro Damien & Marilyn Tibuc Dang Dr. Carolina Davide Jose Rico & Jane Orias Christopher Quezon Rommel & Imelda Tolentino Rodolfo & Grace Vergara Teddy & Josie Abanto Eric & Marites Andrada Daniel & Teresita Fernando Benjamin & Fortunata Guzon Sixto & Evelyn Mamuad Guardians: Ceferino & Francesca Pactanac Jeffrey & Brenda Mooney Todd & Marites Ohta Johnal Udasco
2016 CONTINUING PCFH $1,000 SCHOLARSHIP AWARDEES Recipient 1. Charlene Racimo 2. Jamiel Ishaque 3. Kristina Angela Julian
College Parents Chaminade Menardo & Carmen Racimo Major: Integrative & Organic Biology UH – Manoa Ashar & Joan Ishaque Major: Civil Engineering UH – Manoa Geffrey & Ernestina Julian Major: Nursing
The judges were Dwayne Manzanillo, (Teach er, James Campbell High School), Joanne Corpus (Zippy’s), and Alvin Ishihara (Reiyukai America). Noriko Sotta, Member of the Reiyukai America National Committee notes, “We are very pleased to see this year again many families were able to get together. And on behalf of the Organizing Committee, we are grateful to all our supporters for their generous support to make this event happening. We would like to thank Hawaii’s Plantation Village, Solomon, Deanna and Ashley Espinas, Filipino Association of University Woman (FAUW), Read 2 Succeed Foundation, Suntory Restaurant, Zippy’s, BenchPrep , GF Educators, Vicky Ramil, Alvin Ishihara, and Gina Ramirez.”
CLASSIFIED ADS HELP WANTED
“This year again, this contest brought the youth in Hawai‘i and their parents to get connected for a stronger bonding. It turned out to be a full day of pleasant surprises. Many of the parents who were present were not aware why they were there. Once letters were presented, many parents were touched emotionally as well as pleased by learning how their children were thinking about themselves simultaneously willing to improve the relationship they have. We have been supporting this contest for the last three years because we believe this project offers the youth an opportunity to communicate with their families and that is what we care.” Stated Evelyn Llena, past president of Filipino Association of University Women, one of the sponsors of the event. For more information, contact Rose Churma or Toshiro Obara at 808.358.2868, info@lettertomy parents.com. Details also available at www.LetterToMyParents.com.
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