PAGE 2 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016 STATEWIDE COMMUNITY CALENDAR RSVP by December 16, 2016. Contact MAY 6, 2017 Compiled by AMELIA CASAMINA CABATU Persons: Ken Nakasone 381-9009, Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii Amelia Casamina Cabatu is a community leader and a familiar face, often hosting community events Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090 Filipino Entrepreneur of the Year and the Filipino and celebrations. She is a veteran radio announcer and hosts the “FIL-AM COURIER COMMUNITY Young Entrepreneur of the Year and HOUR on 1270 KNDI Radio every 1st Sunday of the month. In addition to other affiliations, Amelia is the JANUARY 28, 2017 Scholarship Awards Gala. Dole Cannery former Chair of the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii. She owns and operates Gunglo Ti Mannurat nga Ilocano (GUMIL) Pomaikai Ballroom. 735 Iwilei Rd, Honolulu, an adult daycare business and is happily married to Arnold Cabatu. They live in Salt Lake and are Hawaii and Annak ti Kailokuan ti America HI. 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM; Contact Persons: OAHU blessed with one daughter, Armay. Please send your event information to [email protected] or (AKA) Miss and Mrs. GUMIL and AKA Rocky Anguay 387-5821, Bernadette Fajardo call her at (808) 282-2033. Coronation Night Sunset Lanai, Camp Smith 342-8090 DECEMBER 3, 2016 Contact persons: Maribel Tan 384-0494, DECEMBER 20, 2016 Honolulu, Hawaii. Cost $40.00; Contact Candonians of Hawaii Installation & Christmas Norma Tan 358-4985 2nd Sakada Day Celebration & the 110th Year Persons: Mr. Froebel Garcia President of JULY 8, 2017 Party. Dole Cannery Pomaikai Grand Anniversary of the 1st Arrival of Sakadas to GUMIL: 808 386-6857, Mrs. Pacita Saludes Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii Ballroom 735 Iwilei Rd, Honolulu, HI. 6:00 DECEMBER 14, 2016 Hawaii FilCom Center in Waipahu 6:30 PM President of AKA 808 779-6678 (FCCH). Installation of New Officers and PM-11:00 PM; Cost: $60.00; Contact Filipino Business Women’s Association Presented by Philippine Consulate General Board of Directors. 6:00 PM; Hilton Hawaiian Persons: Grace Go 389-1989, Pam Pacquing (FBWA) Annual Christmas Party and Birthday in coordination with the many leading Filipino FEBRUARY 16-26, 2017 Village Resorts, Tapa Ballroom. Contact 498-3098, Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090 Celebrations for December Born Members. Community Organizations headed by the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii Persons: Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090, 6:00 PM; Empress Restaurant (Chinese Oahu Filipino Community Council (OFCC); 27th (FCCH) Annual Filipino Trade Mission Brandon Dela Cruz 389-0517. DECEMBER 4, 2016 Cultural Plaza) Bring a grab bag worth $20 Contact Persons: Leo Gozar 630-6268, to the Philippines. The trade mission aims to Fil-Am Courier Community Hour on KNDI for a gift exchange. Great social networking Zhoydell Magaoay 478-9802, Mae Mizuno strengthen the business opportunities between 1270 AM Radio 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM. Log on opportunity; Cost: $40.00 Contact Persons: 741-4503, Amelia Casamina Cabatu 282- Hawaii and the Philippines. Planned itinerary MAUI to www.kndi.com and/or Letty Saban 255-9429 or lettysaban@ 2033 includes visits to Manila, Davao, Laoag, www.filamcourier.com and Social Media yahoo.com, Elsa Talavera 358-8964, Lina Vigan, Candon, and Baguio City. Official FB Page Fil-Am Courier with your host Amelia Mercado 382-7751 COMMUNITY CALENDAR Travel Agency is Noble Travel- Teresita DECEMBER 14, 2016 Casamina Cabatu, for more info call Amelia FOR THE YEAR 2017 Noble 808-244-4609 Contact Persons: Paul Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce Holiday at (808) 282-2033 DECEMBER 16, 2016 Alimbuyao 754-8691, Bernadette Fajardo 342- Soiree. 5:30 PM Nahele Banquet Room, Kahili Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii JANUARY 1, 2017 8090. Golf Course 2500 Honoapiilani Hwy, Wailuku, DECEMBER 4, 2016 (FCCH) Annual Christmas Celebration 6:00 Fil-Am Courier Community Hour on KNDI Hawaii Cost: $50.00 Cocktail or Semi-formal Pasko sa Filcom brought to you by the Fil- PM Pagoda Floating Restaurant 1270 AM Radio 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM. Log on MARCH 24, 2017 attire encouraged. Reserve online: Com Center 94-428 Mokuola St. Waipahu HI. 1525 Rycroft St. Honolulu HI. Contact Person: to www.kndi.com and/or Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii www.mauifilipinochamber.com 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM Contact Person: Arceli Vanessa Kop 256-0370, Bernadette Fajardo www.filamcourier.com and Social Media 23rd Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament. Rebollido 680-0451 or website http:// 342-809 FB Page Fil-Am Courier with your host Amelia Ewa Beach Golf Club 91-050 Fort Weaver www.filcom.org Casamina Cabatu. For more info call Amelia Road Ewa Beach Hawaii. The proceeds from BIG ISLAND DECEMBER 17, 2016 at (808) 282-2033 the tournament will fund the Foundation’s DECEMBER 9, 2016 Toys 4 Tots Fundraising, Zumbathon Charity scholarship program. Looking for interested JANUARY 21-22, 2017 Filipino Women’s Civic Club (FWCC) Event, Hawaii Yacht Club 1739 C Ala Moana JANUARY 14, 2017 players. Contact Persons: Eddie Agas 783- Philippine Consulate Outreach mobile team Foundation Chirstmas Party and Installation Blvd. Honolulu, HI. 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM; Taste of Kalihi, a block party in the heart of 3327, Jack Legal 284-6832, Bernadette visits Kona at the West Hawaii Civic Center of Officers Ala Moana Hotel Garden Lanai. Christmas in Paradise, Vendors are Kalihi presented by the Filipino Chamber of Fajardo 342-8090 (Building A-across DMV) 74-5044 Ane 6:00 PM Cost: $65.00 Contact Persons: Welcome. Contact Person: Rosemarie Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH); Save the date, Keohokalole Hwy. January 21, 2017 8:00 Ceceilia Villafuerte 780-4985, Rose Galanto Mendoza, FB message her on her FB more details to come. For more information APRIL 15, 2017 AM to 5:00 PM, January 22, 2017 8:00 AM 688-4458, Adela Salacup 677-8908, Timeline. contact Chair, Sam Acosta 306-1428, Filipino Women’s Club of Hawaii Foundation to 12:00 Noon. This service is made in Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090. Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090 (Formerly known as the Hawaii Filipino collaboration with the Kona Visayan Club. To DECEMBER 18, 2016 Women’s Club) Annual make an appointment please call Jane DECEMBER 10, 2016 Santo Domingo Association celebrates their JANUARY 7, 2017 Terno Ball Ala Moana Hotel Hibiscus Ballroom Clement 808-756-3103. To download forms Adult Foster Homecare Association of Hawaii annual Christmas Party and Affirmation of Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii 6:00 PM; Contact Persons: Nelly Pongco or any other inquiries call the Philippine (AFHA). Christmas Celebration and the 2017- New Officers 6:00 PM – 11: 00 PM; Bird of (FCCH) Legislative Breakfast Ala Wai Golf Liu 228-7808, Carlota Ader 797-4381, Mercy Consulate General at 808-545-6316 or visit 2018 Installation of Officers. Pacific Beach Paradise Restaurant in the Prince Golf Course Club 404 Kapahulu Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii. Mullins 226-1320 their website philippines honolulu.org Hotel Grand Ballroom. 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM. in Ewa. Cost: $50.00; Contact Person: Isabel 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM; FCCH MEMBERS ONLY Rivera Phu 223-2888 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 By BENNETTE ESPINELI PHOTOGRAPHERS/GRAPHICS MISALUCHA Brandon dela Cruz Noah Felipe Gabe de Liso Jeff Orig James Ramos My heart aches. My soul cries. 2008; Freedman & Combs, 2009;

COLUMNISTS There is so much pain and Seikkula& Trimble, 2005). In face- Edna Alikpala suffering in the world. The news to-face dialogue, participants have Rhoda Yabez Alvarez, Esq. Jesse Bacon II seems to always be dominated by the opportunity to edit and add to Nancy Bernal Cesar Bonilla hate crimes and acts of terrorism the stories that are told about them, Alice Llanos Busmente Amelia Casamina Cabatu in the US and elsewhere. I know of changing the ways that they are Anabel Gasmen Cabebe Dr. Rickie Camara at least two people who are battling seen. As Black has observed, it is Dr. Patricia Halagao Zeny Muyot a life-threatening disease. The “…through telling and responding Angie Santiago reality of homelessness confronts to personal stories, group members Perfecto Yasay Jr. us as we drive around Honolulu craft their identities and take on CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Conrad Abuel and witness the plight of people others’ perspectives” (Black, 2008, Ric Agnes Paul Alimbuyao trying to muddle through their daily p. 93). This experience of being Ria Baldevia Eriza Bareng lives. Some are navigating the sad witnessed is powerful and Marnelli Joy Basilio Bernie Caalim journey of broken families as they issue. These are all essential When the common ground cracks connecting. It opens receptivity to Randy Cortez face transitions and a new way of elements of a democracy. and the gulf between people grows, others’ stories, dilutes stereotypes Radiant Cordero Mary Cruzada life. Add to this mixour shared post- BUT, what we cannot let they often retreat to fortresses of and invites the heart as much as Jaime de Jesus Brandon dela Cruz election mentalilty as the country ourselves become is each other’s certainty. In these castles, the inside the mind. And heart-focus can Christian Evangelista Imelda Gasmen tries to recover from all the vitriolic enemy. We are not allowed to be walls are black-and-white and the transform enemies to friends Veronika Geronimo Leo Gozar rhetoric hurled by opposing disrespectful, to be rude, to forget narrow, clouded windows that (Eilberg, 2014; Palmer, 2011). Ben Gutierrez Kathleen Lee candidates. And I’m not just talking the values we learned from our overlook the chasm distort the light, As the Holiday approaches, Carmela Minaya just about the Presidential mothers who were reared in the admitting only a partial view. The we need to do more dialogue. Less Gladys Quinto Marrone Gladys Menor elections–even on the county level, Old Country. We are forbidden to drawbridge is raised, so “they” can posturing. Make more friends John Pagaragan Paola Rodelas the amount of engagement during follow the examples of others who be vilified and the purity of “us” can rather than enemies, Judy Relosimon Sandra Sagisi the last election was so intense, believe the present environment be preached. Meanwhile the Even as we remember the first Nicole Velasco Jason Ubay the passion so inflamed, that gives them license to hate, to chasm widens, deepens and fills Christmas story, we cannot Michi Villaruz communities had been torn disavow association with people with trash: old tires, garbage, undervalue the power of love and NEIGHBOR ISLAND BUREAU asunder; polarized factions cannot who are not like themselves. industrial waste. The only things connections to heal us. Let us Maui Kit Zulueta seem to come together even that grow in the breach are weeds: allow these strong concepts to bind Jeremy Zane though the race is done. How does a community heal? thick, tall weeds with woody stems us as a community. Big Island Mil Asuncion What is the common element It is certainly a question that is and spiky blades that leave you In this issue of the Fil-am Jane Clement Dr. Margarita Hopkins amongst these situations? It is the very complex and I am by no bleeding if you attempt to cross. Courier, we feature the recently

Kauai need for healing. Whether it’s means an expert. I am not qualified Venturing there–attempting direct installed President of the Oahu Virgie Cruzada religious extrimemism, debilitating to offer long term solutions connection–is too painful. It is much Filipino Community Council, Leo Liza Trinidad Marynell Valenzuela health issues, economic because the truth is, there may be easier to stay in the castle and Gozar. Gozar is a long-time ADVERTISING SALES challenges (in the case of none. Not one that has a 100% deepen the story of “Them” and Filipino community leader who Marivic Aldaya Mary Cordero homelessness) or families in result. “Us.” has also devoted his life to Annabel Cabebe Florence Tan McCollom crisis, healing is a natural step But in my readings, what Mr. Stains goes on further to showcasing the cultural aspects of Lydia Kamiya Joni Redick-Yundt towards renewal and ultimately, seems to have the most promise is add: “Families, organizations and what it means to be Filipino. As Rudy Bautista towards survival. as simple as a dialogue. communities captured by this President of OFCC, the umbrella Marynel Valenzuela Within our Filipino community Yes, it means talking to one dynamic can be wounded and association of all Oahu-based CIRCULATION Florence Tan (Oahu) in Hawaii, the political dynamics another, and listening. It paralyzed for years, locked in a Filipino unit organizations, Leo’s Ron Oshiro (Leeward Oahu) David Cordero (Maui) during the elections were equally means, in local terms: talking dance of avoidance and acrimony, leadership will be key in ensuring Marynel Valenzuela (Kauai) Milli Asuncion (Big Island) divisive. We pushed hard with our story. silence and screaming, afraid to unity amongst the Filipino

LEGAL COUNSEL advocacies, including this paper. Here is what Robert R. Stains walk in the weeds, devoid of hope community. Let’s give him our Alfredo Evangelista, Esq. Atty. Ernesto Urbano (Phils.) With the blood of the fierce Jr, the author of “Repairing the for anything better. Dialogue holds wholehearted support. Lapulapu flowing in our veins, it is Breach: The Power of Dialogue to the promise of healing in all these Within our Filipino community, easy to see ourselves as warriors Heal Relationships and contexts in which community is as well as outside of it, we pray that THE FIL-AM COURIER who are eager to continue the Communities” (Journal of Public broken. The sense of community there will be peace on earth. And is published twice a month by OAHU RELOCATION SERVICES struggle, willing to hunker down for Deliberation: Vol. 10: Iss. 1, Article depends on the quality of in our hearts and deeds, let us all located at 2221 Liliha St. Honolulu, Hawaii 96817 the long term. 7. Available at: http:// relationships, and relationships sow goodwill towards men. Opinions expressed by the columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Fil-Am But the truth is: this type of www.publicdeliberation.net/jpd/ grow from conversations.” On behalf of the Courier family Courier. Publisher reserves the right to edit letters to the editor and other material submitted. Repro- attitude will not serve us well as a as well as my own (including my duction of material and ads appearing in the Fil-Am vol10/iss1/art7) wrote in describing Lastly, Mr. Stains describes the courier is forbidden without written permission. All photos submitted become the property of the Fil- people. the chasms that tear us apart: power of sharing stories: “Hope for children Christian and Danielle), Am Courier. This is not to say that we could we wish you the best of the Holiday Telephone: 808.595.8787 “Municipalities, workplaces, relationship and community Facsimile: 808.595.6883 not be true to our convictions. No, communities of faith, even families healing comes when dialogue season! E-Mail: [email protected] www.filamcourier.net we have the right to continue to are torn apart by disputes and focuses on personal stories, Maligayang Pasko sa inyong MEMBER believe in the platforms of our misunderstandings about gender, emotions and identities. It can lahat! HFAMC preferred parties. We should never race, politics, sexual orientation, counter the effects of the stories told Federation of Filipino American Media Associations of the United States and Canada miss the opportunity to express our socio-economic status and of others that shred relational and FFAMAS sentiments about a particular religion, among other things. communal bonds and the emotions Hawaii Filipino American Media Council All rights reserved printed in the u.s.a © There is a great need for healing. that inflame or imprison. (Black, 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

"Leo Rojas Gozar's work is one Etrata affirmed. “His dedication to input of 2 major productions a year that I consider a Signature of Qual- his craft is admirable, giving us, his such as “Lady in Red Ball’, and ity and mainstream material. He benefactors, confidence that our KARAT fashion parade. VPH also has elevated the Filipino American projects are in good hands”, she does set designs and execution for experience in Culture, Arts, and added. a dozen shows, and serves as con- Theatrical productions to a new and As much as Gozar the artist sultant to many. Gozar has the sin- higher level of exceptional artistry." comes across as subversive and gular distinction of producing and Larry Ordonez - Radio/TV person- egotistical, the real-life Gozar could directing the major Filipino schol- ality and Real Estate Developer. win the title for the most cordial and arship pageants in a single year- Gozar’s works always begin hardest-working man in commu- Miss Hawaii Filipina, Miss Oahu with bravura- an overenthusiastic nity affairs. He not only works a day Filipina, Mrs. Hawaii Filipina, Miss voice over announcer, introducing: job, he’s the hands-on executive Teen Hawaii Filipina, Little Miss “Live…..at the Coral Ballroom.” producer and runs Vogue Philippines Hawaii. There’s an interplay of strobes, Pygmalion Productions and sel- In the past, Gozar served as uplights, and gobos, and a vibrant dom turns down an opportunity to Commissioner of the Filipino Cen- and pulsating opening number. help a charitable organization. He’s tennial Celebration Commission, This is followed by an intelligently a perennial event producer, host chairing the Festivals of Culture conceived script, and performed by and voice over actor whose work and Arts Committee, and had pro- brilliant and select singers and includes thirty annual pageants, vided pro bono services to the fol- dancers. The program flows award shows, fashion extravagan- lowing Filipino events: Filipino smoothly following a strict timeline zas and costume balls. Community Center Inaugural Gala that is well-paced and on the dot. For years, Gozar has exploited Show “Pasinaya”; Presidential “Leo is always serious in his his penchant for progressive ideas Banquets for the visits of Presidents commitment to events that he pro- in community building through cul- Estrada, Ramos, Arroyo & Aquino; duces and directs. His shows start tural and creative undertakings. He the 2 Mabuhay Inaugurals and punctually on time, run smoothly, is owner and president of Vogue Farewell Gala for Governor Ben and end as scheduled”, Mrs. Maria Pygmalion Hawaii (VPH), with an Cayetano; and Philippine Recognized as event producer of “Pamana Art Exhibit” by Councilmen Menor and Manahan THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016 • PAGE 5

Consulate’s Independence Day the Rebels”, where he acted with Celebrations. TV director Maria Montelibano, and Of course Leo is well-versed film producer, Tony Gloria. When in putting together calendar of ac- he joined Pi Omicron Fraternity, tivities. To quote an article in the they produced a trilogy of one-act 2006 First Hawaiian Bank’s annual plays called “Banyuhay” written by report, “…Filipinos commemorated progressive playwrights at the uni- their centennial anniversary with a versity. year-long celebration including There were many years in the 130 events on every major island early days of his artistic journey in the state. Overseeing this impres- when Leo would dabble in minor sive calendar was Leo Rojas Gozar, projects that proved beneficial in the ebullient culture czar for the long run. “I was in a short-lived Hawaii’s Filipino community.” television cultural- musical show in the likes of “Aawitan Kita” on Chan- Scorpio Rising nel 7 (now GMA),” Leo relates. “I Leo Rojas Gozar is a Scorpio was also the artistic director of rising native. Born in the cusp of Recognized as event producer of “Pamana Art Exhibit” by Councilmen Menor and Manahan Larawan Cultural Troupe, and Scorpio and Sagittarius, he typifies dance and drama consultant at the the qualities described. “He is diffi- now defunct Nayong Pilipino Vil- cult to live with, but a joy to love”, lage.” his wife Mimi says. “I am surprised that he’s telling you his life story Footloose and Fancy Free knowing how private he is.” When Leo was 7 years old, he “Scorpio rising people value declared, “I am going around the their privacy so much, it can bor- world”, when asked what he would der on paranoia. They have a like to do when he grew up. This strong need to control their envi- declaration turned out to be his ronment and are experts at strat- pipedream subsequent to watch- egy. Rarely people who will blow ing a re-run of “Around the World in their chances with impatience, they 80 Days”. Performing at the Honolulu Hale during the 1st PCCCH Independence Day Gala plan out their moves carefully and Around the world he did travel. deliberately, relying on their awe- what’s to become of him. On Sat- ror stories, and you know what College of Arts and Sciences, his His break into the realization of a some ability to feel out others and urday afternoons, he would invite those stories do to children. mother passed on and he decided dream came when he discovered situations.” This description was the neighbors’ kids for an afternoon Fast forward to college. At the to shift to Speech and Drama, a that he was a better dancer than taken straight from a Zodiac of homemade puppet movies. He University of the Philippines in desire he had been covertly nurtur- singer. After dabbling in elemen- source. would cut out figures from “komiks” Diliman, Leo enrolled in pre-medi- ing. tary school programs and perform- Born in Calapan City, Or. mounted them on cardboards, and cine hoping to obey his parents’ After getting an approval from ing Filipino traditional dances, he Mindoro, Leo is the third living sib- put stick handles on them. He wishes to be another doctor in the his father whose reaction was at graduated to the Filipiniana Dance ling among eight in a family of ten. framed 2’ X 3’ white fabric to serve family, (older sister Teresita is an best tepid, Leo embarked onto a Troupe at the University of the Phil- His father, Tomas dela Torre Gozar as screen, and installed lighted optometrist, and youngest sister career in theater, films and televi- ippines. There he met and trained was an accountant and his mother, candles in the back of it to project Maria Leonida is a dentist). Later sion. He belonged to the first batch with Philippine National Artist in Leonida Rojas was a first grade images onto the “screen”. He into the course, Gozar discovered of students of Behn Cervantes, an Dance, Ramon Obusan to whom teacher. He learned his ABC’s turned off the lights and in darkness that he has a different passion in awarded stage, TV and film direc- he owed his cultural and artistic from his Inay and his focus from begun telling stories he concocted life. He told his dad he wanted to tor. Under his tutelage Leo learned awakening. As his protégée, his Tatay. from various materials. He provided be in performing arts, and in fact, the fundamentals of theater pro- Obusan taught Leo the rudiments dialogues, voices, and sound ef- he realized just how hard it is to be duction, acting, directing, writing of choreographing a dance from Lights… Camera… Action fects that thrilled his audience who in a field of study that does not ex- and set design. He was cast in raw researches with which Ramon At 9, Gozar had an omen of reacted wildly since he chose hor- cite you. On his second year at the Behn’s production of “Queen and had a cache of. This led to his au-

Dancing “Paseo de Iloilo” in Malaysia With Designer Gozum and Cabaret Director Derek Daniels Always innovative and well-attended, Leo makes events a celebration. Holiday Inn Shown, Mrs. Etrata FCCH Inaugural PAGE 6 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016

dition to the country’s national trea- sure, 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 Philippine Cultural Group in Shirahama Onsen, Osaka Japan Enjoying his first snow frolic in Nagoya, Japan Bayanihan was the featured cul- tural performers during the open- breather to life-changing experi- would take train tours, drove on the The Asian leg of the tour visited ing of San Miguel Brewery Guam. ences in Europe. Autostrada del Sole and excursion Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, In 1972, Leo was part of Bayanihan- London in the mid-seventies to places he only read about. From Kuching, Bali, Bangkok and New Karilagan one month stint at the was a crucial and riveting city to be Belgium to Germany, from Austria, Delhi, a promotion of Holiday Inn Hong Kong Hilton that introduced in. It is especially a pivotal compo- Hungary, Italy to Spain, Portugal, Hotels. him to a later venture, the cultural nent in Gozar’s European sojourn. Calais France, and back to Lon- fashion show genre. The declara- He lived in Earl’s Court, a district don. These travels became stimu- Paradise Gained tion of martial law in the Philippines where students shared flats close lating and learning encounters and In the spring of 1979, Gozar, however cut short their trip and to Central London. He would take served as a second education with his employer’s family, em- they had to return back to Manila. the “Tube” (London’s railway) to phase for Leo. barked on a cross-country trip Gozar’s work ethic was honed and from downtown Regent Street, Back in the Philippines, he around the US Mainland calling on early on while preparing for a longer where he observed arts and the- joined, directed and co-produced most of the major American cities With Ms. Maggie Domingo contract to work in Osaka, Japan ater classes. Living in London af- fashion shows and stage plays with and finally landing in Honolulu, he lost his freedom but gained para- as an entertainment director and forded him the luxury of watching Roxanne Lapus such as “Lovers Hawaii. The Hawaii branch of the dise and an angel. the leader of an 18-member cul- world-class West End musicals and Other Strangers”, “The Pre- company needed help in its many He worked as a men’s buyer tural group. He oversaw the pro- and productions and visited muse- mier Showing”, which featured top projects and he had to stay for a at Ritz Stores; Division Merchan- duction requisites, looked into the ums and arthouses. designers of that time- Nena longer period. dise Manager at CKC Ltd. Gem needs of the ensemble cast, and On long weekends, Gozar with Lapus, Slim’s and Ben Farrales. Leo met his future wife Mimi Stores; and General Merchandise even managed the personal and his friends would take the ferry at Designer Tony Abeto commis- through his co-workers during a Manager with Peacock Partners. business aspect of the company. Dover, crossed the English Chan- sioned him to produce “Kariktan”, private party. He married her in As a store planner, Leo was respon- From Japan, Leo flew to Hong nel to Ostende in Brussels. Back as part of the “balikbayan” program 1981 and decided to stay put in sible for the physical set up of the Kong for a 3-month observation then, the underwater tunnel was that brought him to Anaheim, Las Hawaii, a move he never thought stores, worked with architects and and sabbatical leave, taking a under construction. The group Vegas, Los Angeles, and Toronto. would come. As Leo rationalizes, 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 mer- years, it has grown to become the chandise together with his division source of quality stage, events, and buyers, travelled to showrooms and theatrical productions. attended men’s and women’s mar- Art, culture and youth- three of kets. He also ministered the opera- his advocacies came into fore tions and budget outlooks of the when he formed Larawan Youth company. Ensemble, a performing arts group Once again in the late eight- composed of 6 to 12 year old Fili- In London’s Trafalgar Square By the Swiss Alps ies, creativity beckoned. He met Fil- pino American children. He trained Am Courier’s Director of Design them on folk dance and songs Armand Busmente who asked him which culminated in a two-hour to be a staff of Hawaii's #1 ethnic dance concert at the Hawaii newspaper. He served as LifeStyle Theatre. He also worked with the columnist, Kalendaryo ng Bayan Pearl City High School Filipino writer and eventually contributing Club producing cultural recitals for editor. Here Leo’s penchant for five years. story telling was very evident in his Eventually he decided to work articles. in a more stable environment at The 1991 Typhoon “Iniki” Honolulu Hale. Having been asked caused yet another setback in by his boss, Representative Romy Leo’s career blueprint. The devas- M. Cachola to be his legislative tation caused several of their stores aide. It was there the struggling art- to go underwater or simply dam- ist finally began his noble career in aged the merchandise beyond sell- public service where he was able Winter in Nara, Japan In Lucerne, Switzerland ing. Despite industry and insurance to help constituents in their district assistance, their company bellied find solutions to their everyday con- of OFCC as the umbrella organi- up and filed for bankruptcy protec- cerns. The following year, Leo zation of about 70 member units. tion. Gozar was jobless for the first moved to the Hawaii State Capitol Gozar is inviting new members as time since he moved to Hawaii. But with his boss having won a seat in well as former members who had as the old adage goes, “when one the House and offered him to be chosen to go on sabbatical due to door closes, another opens up.” An his chief of staff breaking more one reason or another. OFCC has opportunity opened indeed. prospects for him to make a differ- adopted a positive battle cry, “Hapi Gozar suddenly realized that ence in people’s lives. Lang” (Be Happy) and aims to be a he has a vocation to fall back on. This undertaking plus his fresh role model for other groups to be He is after all a seasoned creative mindset regarding community ser- respectful, supportive, and affirma- professional and a well-trained vice compelled him to accept the tive. events planner. Immediately he put presidency of the Oahu Filipino In the words of the former pro- on his sales and marketing hat and Community Council (OFCC), gram director of Philippine Village, started selling his ideas. He estab- something he has never given any “As Leo conceptualizes, Filipino lished his company Main Events thought in the past. He and his American events in Hawaii materi- Hawaii which is now Vogue board that includes Rev. Alex alizes.” His signature becomes a Pygmalion Hawaii. It has its ups and Vergara, OFCC immediate past seal of quality and confidence. downs as many startups experi- president has a plateful of projects ence growing pains, but in 25 that hope to enhance the visibility 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 Adult Foster Homes of the Pacific 664-5164 [email protected] To say that the Oahu Filipino 2. *MARY JEAN CASTILLO Aklanon Association of Hawaii 979-5490 [email protected] Community Council (OFCC) has a 3. FE EDITHA VELASCO ALWAD 222-7436 [email protected] 4. PACITA SALUDES AnnaktiKailokuaniti America 292-8105 hand in each of the Filipino 5. CESAR CAOILI AnnaktiBatac of Hawaii 782-9341 [email protected] organizations on Oahu is an 6. GUS CONCEPCION AnnaktiSinaititi Hawaii 638-1699 [email protected] 7. ANGEL DYTIOCO Bulacan Circle & Associates of Hawaii 625-9370 [email protected] understatement. OFCC’s, as a whole, 8. VERONICA ESTEBAN Cabugao Sons and Daughters of Hawaii 590-4848 [email protected] purpose is to “perpetuate the Filipino 9. ROGER URBI Cagayan Valley Association of Hawaii 729-5096 [email protected] 10. GLADYS MENOR Calayab Association of Hawaii 385-3951 [email protected] cultural heritage; to unite all Filipino- 11. GRACE GO Candonians of Hawaii 389-1989 [email protected] 12. *JAKE NAVASCA Cebuano Association of Hawaii [email protected] oriented organizations for the 13. JOE QUIBUYEN Confederation of Ilocano Associations common welfare of the whole Samahang Ilokano (CIA-SI) Hawaii Chapter 256-6399 [email protected] 14. TRINI SANGA Confederation of Ilocano Associations - community; to enhance individual and Samahang Ilokano (CIA-SI)Waikiki Chapter 384-4946 [email protected]; group worth; and to encourage all [email protected] 15. JESSE PASCUAL Divine Word College of Laoag Alumni Filipinos and/or Americans of Filipino Association of Hawaii 225-3388 [email protected] ancestry to develop a stronger sense 16. JAKE MANEGNEG Fil-American Citizen’s League 833-1429 or 524-6993 17. NANCY WALCH Filipino Business Women’s Association 778-3832 [email protected] of individual and collective 18. STEPHANIE CHUNG Filipino Nurses Organization of Hawaii [email protected] responsibility and a greater 19. BERNADETTE FAJARDO Filipino Women’s Civic Club Foundation 642-8090 [email protected] 20. NELLY PONGO LIU Filipino Women’s Club Foundation 228-7808 [email protected] participation in the affairs of the 21. FROEBEL GARCIA GUMIL Hawaii [email protected] community of Hawaii as a whole.” 22. RIZAL FERNANDEZ GUMIL Oahu 23. ROSE GALANTO Hawaii Association of Filipino Travel Agents [email protected] 24. GUS LONGBOY INCAT 294-1446 / 421-7381 [email protected] OFCC was established in 1959 and 25. DANNY VILLARUZ IlocosSurianAssociaton of Hawaii 778-0233 [email protected] 26. EDDIE AGAS, SR. International Filipino Society of Hawaii 783-3327 [email protected] serves as the umbrella organization 27. BEN PULIDO Kalayaan Phil- Hawaii International 421-9747 [email protected] of all Filipino community organizations 28. E. MOLINA Kapamilya of Hawaii 29. LEO ROJAS GOZAR (KATHA) 630-6268 [email protected] in the island of Oahu in Hawaii. OFCC 30. CONRAD VALDRIZ La Union Circle 953-8888 [email protected] is also known for hosting the Miss 31. RUDY NEBREJA Lunarians of Hawaii 551-3035 32. IMELDA FORMOSO Magsingal Association of Hawaii 227-5201 [email protected] Oahu Filipina Scholarship Pageant 33. MARLEEN SIONA Member To Member Movement 34. LOUIE FUNTANILLA Narvacan Association of Hawaii 375-6449 [email protected] since 1973. It was conceived at first 35. FROEBEL GARCIA Pasuquinio Association of Hawaii [email protected] as an annual Fiesta project in 1973. 36. JANICE SEVILLA Philippine Cultural Foundation of HI 305-9755 [email protected] 37. RAMON SUMIBCAY Philippine Nurses Association of Hawaii 375-8933 / 489-7148 [email protected] 38.LETTY SABAN Philippine Women’s Civic Club [email protected] Along with their overall involvement in 39. MAYROSE BORROMEO- RIMAT ti Burgos Association of Hawaii 636-6578 [email protected] 40. ERNIE PASCUA San Nicolas Goodwill Foundation 286-5474 all the Filipino community 41HEIDI LUARCA San Nicolas Teachers Association organizations, OFCC also runs 42. CLAUDIO CAGAOAN, JR. San Nicoleneos of Hawaii 689-7141 43. ALICE CASTANEDA San Juan Lapog Association of Hawaii 230-4095 [email protected] various civic and community project, 44. DAVELYN QUIJANO Sinait Nat. High School Alumni Asso. of HI including, but not limited to: Adopt a 45. ERLINDA SANCHEZ The Filipino Hotel Workers Organization 230-0376 46. RONNIE AGUSTIN The New Marcos Town Association of HI 306-9427 [email protected] Highway, Adopt a Park, feeding the 47. MARIA AF ETRATA The Primary Care Providers of Hawaii 392-2962 [email protected] homeless, supporting the Hawaii 48. AURELIO AGCAOILI TMI Global 49. MARYLYN VILLAR Tri-Star Line Group Food Bank, and hosting various 50. ESTHER PASCUAL United Group of Care Home Operators 842-0227 fundraisers for natural disasters and 51. MERELLE GONZALES- United Laoaguenos of Hawaii 386-3476 [email protected]; [email protected] other calamities that affect the 52. JOHN RAMOS United Vintarinians of Hawaii [email protected] Philippines. 53. AMALIA MP GOZAR Urdaneta City Community Alliance 312-0778 [email protected] 54. TESSIE AGANON Vigan Association of Hawaii [email protected]; 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 thoughts are riddled with worries organ system contributing to in the moment means living wholly I could write about eternity, but so fast: the feeling of time slipping and fears. This is why meditation strokes, heart attacks, obesity, with mind and body being at the it would take forever. I could write out of our grasp. The funny thing is is such a good stress-reducing diabetes, sleep problems, same place at the same time. We about infinity, but it would have no that we get stressed when we feel technique. You simply learn to sit dementia, etc. Anxiety, depression, can really only experience the end. And that would be rude to you we are running out of time; but in still, focus on your breath, and and suicide are its psychological present. We have to cognitively as most of us conceptualize time reality, we cannot even observe observe those thoughts come and consequences. And the only create a ‘past’ and a ‘future’ in our as a ‘resource,’ i.e. like money. So time as it is not a tangible thing in go. Each time the mind wanders solution is to slow down and be minds. What we have are in that frame of mind, I hope I have itself. We can only observe events away (which it will), you simply present in the moment, be present memories and images of what to not ‘wasted’ your time; that you and perceive them in a framework bring it back to the breath. And soon in your life. expect; and the act of recalling ‘budgeted’ enough time to read of motion; i.e. of passing. There is you will notice your thoughts not I am encouraged that there is these stored memories or this; and that this was ‘worth’ your the event of birth and there is the only slow down, but they actually a budding ‘slow movement’ that visualizing these images occur in time. Truly, the slower you live your event of death; and in-between is decrease, sometimes to a point of has taken root and is sprouting the present. There is no ‘past’ or life, the sweeter your life, and the the ‘time of our life.’ singular focus. This then brings a around the world; a movement that ‘future’ laid out along a ‘time line’ ‘richer’ you will be in what is really We feel busier and stressed sense of calm, peace and balance espouses mindfulness in slow as a real thing. There is really out important. Namaste. when we have more events in our within you. Sweet slowness living, slow food, slow cities, slow there only the present where we lives to attend to. In fact, the word indeed…! money and slow loving. There is experience events in motion. ‘busy’ originally meant “anxious, Alas, the fast life is all around even an organization, One Taste, For St. Augustine, the purpose careful” and later meant to “be us - fast food, fast cars, fast that teaches a practice that of ‘time’ is to be caught up into this continually employed or conversations on social media, combines the “power and attention eternal present to the extent that occupied.” And these days, aren’t fast hook-ups, etc. We forget to of meditation with the deeply we can experience it while still Dr. Rickie Camara is a Board-Certified our minds continuously pre- linger, to really live, and human, deeply felt, and connected bound by physical laws. He wrote psychiatrist and Bikram Yoga teacher. He occupied courtesy of our smart consequently we feel off-kilter; the experience of orgasm.” A sweet that if the ‘present’ were perpetually teaches yoga classes at Hotyoga8 in phones? People all over the world word being derived from “kelter” slowness indeed..! present, there would be no longer Kaimuki. He has a yoga-aligned health now check their social media meaning “good health or good One reason slowing down any time, but eternity. And to taste coaching and counseling practice in Kahala. (email, text, Facebook, Twitter, condition.” Yes, the cost of ignoring time is so sweet is because it gives eternity is to taste God who You can hear him every Friday on the radio Instagram, etc.) a staggering 17 - stress, of not being balanced and you a taste of eternity. Living slowly transcends time; who has no at KNDI between 8 and 8:30 a.m. on the 40 times a day! The brain at ease, is enormous. Stress and living mindfully means living beginning and no end. A sweet, Medical Forum with FlorMartinez . Email processes these as ‘events,’ accelerates degeneration in every in the present moment; and living sweet Slowness indeed..! contact at [email protected]. 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 PAGE 10 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016 Post which resulted in probation. administration’s program of President-elect Trump has said Deferred Action on Childhood he wants to detain or deport 2-3 Arrivals (DACA), however, I did million “criminal aliens”. What not apply for fear of what would Election can I do to avoid my removal happen to the program after from the United States? President Obama steps out of By RHODA YABES ALVAREZ, Esq. office. What will be the status Answer: Many so-called “criminal of DACA applicants under aliens” have convictions for very President-elect Trump’s In the aftermath of the Immigration minor offenses, and are not threats administration? U.S.presidential election, what to public safety or national security. can we expect? With President There available reliefs and Answer: As of June 30, 2016, elect Donald Trump’s remedies for those who are facing USCIS has approved close to pronouncements on his removal charges. There are also 750,000 DACA applications since immigration policy, we address the Impact available remedies for those who 2012.The DACA program granted following questions which our have not been charged with employment authorization and readers may also have in mind. removability but are willing to valid social security numbers to consult a qualified immigration be at risk of removal if you commit identify remedies to fix their status. qualified applicants. It is too early Question: I am an illegal attorney to analyze your case and an act or acts that make you The present Obama to say what the next administration alien. I came into the country provide options on what remedies removable or inadmissible to the administration, by executive will do regarding DACA and the as a tourist and failed to are available to lead you towards U.S. Now may be a good time to actions, has put in place smart thing to do is to wait for policy maintain my lawful status. What valid status depending on your apply for citizenship. There are “prosecutorial discretion” as an developments. Meanwhile, there can I expect in the coming new particular case. immigrants who may have derived enforcement policy to focus may be present available reliefs to administration? Will I be citizenship from their parents by deportation efforts on actual fix your unlawful status. To find out removed automatically? Question: I am an birth or by naturalization and do not threats. It is too early to say whether what reliefs you qualify for immigrant working in Waikiki. know it or do not have evidence of President elect Trump’s depending on your background, Answer: Don’t panic. At this In our workplace, there has their status. There are immigrants administration will continue the consult a qualified immigration early, the new administration is not been discussion on the strict who can qualify for citizenship on policy or change it altogether. attorney. yet in place and the best thing to anti-immigrant policy of the their own. To find out what path to Notwithstanding his course of do is to gather facts and know your coming new administration. Is citizenship is available to you or action, there are present remedies (Source: AILA Doc. No. 16111800 | rights depending on the particulars there anything I need to do to whether you are already a U.S available under existing law Dated November 18, 2016) of your case. There is a path avoid potential immigration citizen and do not know about it, available for those who wish to towards gaining legal status with problems? consult a qualified immigration apply. To find out what reliefs you Rhoda Yabes Alvarez, Esq. is proper guidance. Be careful not to attorney. qualify for depending on the nature an attorney with offices in Honolulu fall victim to scammers or notarios Answer: There is a path of your crime, consult a qualified and the Philippines. She is who will prey on your confusion towards citizenship that immigrants Question: I am an immigration attorney. licensed to practice law in Hawaii, and anxiety from the elections can take to fortify their status in the immigrant with a past criminal New York and the Philippines. Atty. results. The smart thing to do is to United States. An immigrant may conviction for a minor offense Question: I am an illegal alien Yabes Alvarez can be reached at brought into the United States 1-808-589-7380 or by email at as a child. The first time I [email protected]. Her learned of my illegal status was Honolulu office is located at 905 in high school when I was Umi St. Suite 204, Honolulu, HI applying for a driver’s license. I 96819. Visit her website at have heard of the Obama www.filamlaw.com THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016 • PAGE 11

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 By BRANDON ELEFANTE Affordable Housing Fund, it will Council Member City and County of Honolulu continue to grow at approximately $5 million per year. Thank you to all of Parks are us The Honolulu City Council recognized Aiea Bowl on its 50th Anniversary at the November 2 Full Council Meeting. Joining the you who exercised In the past, I have written about Councilmembers are Aiea Bowl Founder Mako Kobayashi and current owner Chef Glenn Uyeda. your right to vote in how we must “malama” or take this past General care of our parks. Since I’ve taken office, several of our area parks in Election. And you Council District 8 have been up- get an extra dose of dated. In 2015, both Waipahu Uka gratitude for voting Neighborhood Park and Pearlridge on all 20 City Char- Community Park saw their play apparatuses and play apparatus ter Amendments. surfaces refurbished. In early 2016, How Charter Amendment #5 will the play apparatus and play appa- help build more affordable ratus surface were refurbished at housing Pacific Palisades Community Park. One of the 20 City Charter Kaonohi Neighborhood Park will Amendments near and dear to my also have its play apparatus and heart is City Charter Amendment 5. surface refurbished this year. Councilmember Elefante joins Mayor Kirk Caldwell (center), Representative Gregg Takayama (left), Robert Sato from Senator I introduced this amendment to Two parks with broken play Breene Harimoto’s Office (far right), and community members (left to right) Albert Fukushima, Kelsey Poaha, and Claire Tamamoto help address current problems with equipment are programmed in a at the groundbreaking of the Pearl Highlands Rail Station. the underutilized Affordable Hous- Department of Parks and Recre- planning, design, and construction. statistics around O‘ahu. The de- Community News ing Fund and expand the options ation priority list for repair in 2017, fault mapping is for one week, and As always, I would like to highlight for the use of the money in the fund. and they are Waimalu District Park Crime mapping now includes you can adjust the timeline as far happenings in our community Prior to the passage of this and Waiau District Park. violent crimes back as six months. You can also through these photos. amendment, the income limits for Construction at the Manana As Chair of the Public Health, customize alerts to be sent to your I wish each and every one you residents of Affordable Housing Neighborhood Park Swimming Safety & Welfare Committee at the email. Mahalo to HPD for provid- a happy holiday season! Fund-assisted dwellings was less Pool is now complete, and the pool Honolulu City Council, I recently ing the community with access to than 50 percent of the median is slated to re-open on December had a presentation by the Hono- more information about their neigh- Brandon Elefante represents Honolulu City Council District VIII, which covers ‘Aiea - Pearl household income, and any Afford- 1, 2016. Please note that the pool lulu Police Department (HPD) on borhoods. City - Waipahu. He can be reached at (808) able Housing Fund-assisted dwell- will be open on selected days de- crime mapping. At that meeting, 768-5008, and his email is ings had to remain affordable in pending on lifeguard availability HPD announced that they will add [email protected]. perpetuity. These two require- while the City works on staffing. more crime categories to the map- ments don’t match the reality of I inserted money into this year’s ping feature on their department’s current affordable housing devel- Capital Improvement Program website. In addition to the property opment in our state because other (CIP) budget for a master plan of crimes such as auto theft that were Federal and State funds have a re- Hans L’Orange Neighborhood Park already posted, HPD has added quirement that affordable housing because I believe that improve- violent crimes such as arson, as- be built for those making 60 per- ments at this park could benefit the sault, homicide, and sex crimes. cent or less of the median house- wider community. I also inserted Please note that the icons on hold income and because many money into last year’s CIP budget the website indicate where the of the parcels available for afford- to convert the tennis courts at crime was reported, not necessar- able housing development cannot Waipio Neighborhood Park into ily where the crime occurred. You be deeded to a developer in per- basketball courts and volleyball can access the website at petuity. courts. The update of the court lay- www.honolulupd.org and click on With these former restrictive out is currently in design and then Crime Mapping on the right side of parameters on the use of the fund, will go out to bid for construction. the screen beneath “Statistics Re- the City was not able to build the I will continue to budget parks ports.” On the next page, you will affordable housing units that are so improvements in Council District 8 see an icon with your location. You desperately needed in our commu- and follow these projects as they can click on “where” to zoom in or nity. move through the CIP process of move your mouse to look at crime 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 Al Waterson and Alex O'Loughlin ("Hawaii Five-0") at Egan Inoue with his new book - "Becoming - Lauren Teruya Egan Inoue's Book Launch Celebration Relentless"

Egan Inoue is a world class was the Emcee for this special athlete, a business owner, a evening and the incredible professional keynote speaker and entertainment line-up included an author. After winning eleven Jordan Segundo, Casey Fortuno, world titles in three different sports Augie T, The Touch of Gold and – racquetball, Brazilian jiu jitsu and Grant Carvalho –pianist. It was a mixed martial arts, he knows there beautiful evening for a great cause. is no challenge you can’t • • • • overcome. In addition, he is the Nationally-acclaimed actor – owner of Egan’s Fit Body Adrian R’Mante came to Hawaii to Bootcamp and Training Centers tape an episode of “Hawaii Five-0” and Egan’s CryoTherapy Hawaii where he had a principal role. Spa. And now, he has added an Adrian’s list of acting credits additional achievement to his includes “CSI”, “NCIS”, and other impressive list of credits – Author shows, but he is known most for of his first book – “Becoming his role of “Esteban” on The Disney Relentless”. In the words of Egan Show - “The Suite Life of Zack and Inoue – “Being relentless is the key Cody” for six years. Adrian loves to achieving greatness.” Egan’s Hawaii and he will be doing more Jordan Segundo with the Police Officers at The D.A.R.E. Thirty Year Anniversary Celebration inspirational book can be in the islands in 2017. purchased at • • • • www.EganInoue.com and twenty Terry Fator (Ventriloquist, percent of all book sales will be Singer, Comedian and “America’s donated to the Wounded Warrior Got Talent” Champion) has one of Foundation to support the veterans. the most popular shows in Las A book launch celebration to Vegas at The Mirage Hotel and on kick-off the release of “Becoming November 11 and 12, he brought Relentless” was held on November his show to Honolulu at The 19 at Panya Bistro in Honolulu and Hawaii Theatre. It was a big hundreds of people attended success and he presented an including Alex O’Loughlin (Steve excellent show, which received McGarrett in “Hawaii Five-0”). Al rave reviews. Waterson emceed the festivities. • • • • • • • • Congratulations to Lauren The Ronald McDonald House Teruya – the newly-crowned Miss Charities of Hawaii Share A Night Hawaii Teen USA 2017 and Julie Annual Gala was held on Kuo – Miss Hawaii USA 2017. Both November 20 at The Sheraton ladies were selected for these Waikiki Hotel. Bob and Dianne prestigious titles on November 6 at Pereira were the honorees in The Hawaii Convention Center. recognition for their support • • • • throughout the years. Al Waterson

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 Casey Fortuno and Jordan Segundo at The Ronald McDonald House Gala

Liana Wright and Zane Style year anniversary of promoting their Year with a big bang and a great House presents The Giveback “Stay Drug-Free” message to view of the fireworks in Waikiki. The Event – “A Winter Wonder-Fur- students in schools across the dance music will be non-stop at Land” on December 11 at The State of Hawaii. In honor of this 8:30 p.m. til 1 a.m. with Al Waterson Hokulani Waikiki rooftop venue great achievement, the police doing the countdown and singing located at 2181 Kalakaua Avenue officers presented a day of fun, Auld Lang Syne at Midnight. Lux at 5 til 9 p.m. This holiday entertainment and inspirational Events presents this elaborate celebration will benefit The Fur- messages at Pearlridge Shopping special event and tickets can be Angel Foundation, a dog-rescue Center. Jordan Segundo has purchased at organization based on Oahu. shown his support for this www.newyearsevehonolulu.com Hoku Award Winning Duo – Ben educational program for over • • • • and Maila will perform and thirteen years and was invited to Merry Christmas and I wish Honolulu Theatre for Youth Cast of "A Plantation Celebration" vocalist – Jordan Segundo will also headline the Anniversary Event. you a safe and healthy holiday entertain along with music by • • • • season! Cherish your loved ones For now, That’s Entertainment! DJMOTIV3. Al Waterson will The Honolulu Theatre for and take time to express gratitude (If you would like to submit entertainment information, please emcee. Fabulous prizes, live Youth presents a World Premiere to the ones that helped you during contact Nancy Bernal at 947-5736 or e-mail her at NancyBernal auction items, fashion shows, wine of “A Plantation Celebration” (a your life’s journey. @aol.com) tastings along with a Hawaiian collection of original scenes, • • • • Santa will also be a part of this stories, and songs that look back spectacular evening. And on a major chapter in Hawaii’s adoptable dogs from The Fur- history) at Tenney Theatre on the Angel Foundation will be available grounds of The Cathedral of St. – looking for their forever home. Andrew. The play is scheduled for Tickets can be purchased at December 3, 10 and 17 at 4:30 thegivebackevent.eventbrite.com p.m. Tickets can be obtained by • • • • calling (808) 839-9885 or online The Hawaiian Humane at www.htyweb.org Society held their annual Pet Walk • • • • at Magic Island on October 30 Looking for a place to go on where several thousand people New Year’s Eve? Here are a few participated with their pets. World suggestions. 53 By The Sea will Champion Surfer – Carissa Moore have a fabulous party overlooking was one of the Celebrities that the beautiful Waikiki skyline at 9 attended with her dog. Denby p.m til 1 a.m. featuring music by Dung – Host of The Pet Hui Jordan Segundo with Musical Television Show – also supported Group - Nueva Vida and Rocky this fantastic event with her dog, Brown. Call (808) 536-5353 to Stitch. purchase tickets. • • • • • • • • The D.A.R.E. program The Lux New Year’s Eve presented by The Honolulu Police Casino Royale Extravaganza at Department celebrated their thirty Trump Tower will bring in the New

Terry Fator and Al Waterson PAGE 20 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016

By ANGIE DYTIOCO SANTIAGO Faye Cudal, Senator Clarence Nishihara, Representative Romy Cachola, Council Member Ron The valedictorians assembled for a group photo with elected Menor, POTY 2015 Lorena & Bonifacio Guieb, POTY 2016 Helena Grace Villanueva Go, Anthony officials and officers of the PCFH. Go, Mayor Kirk Caldwell, Tia Go, Lovely Go, Kenneth Go, and Council Member Joey Manahan. Philippine Cultural Foundation of Hawaii Honored Valedictorians Helena Grace Villanueva Go Named 2016 Parent of the Year First Trailblazer Award Recipient Anacleto (Lito) Alcantra and wife Eddie Flores, Jr. Receives 2016 Trailblazer Award Carmelita. The Philippine Cultural to contribute to the local and Filipino immigrant plantation workers) who Foundation of Hawaii (PCFH) held its community as well as to her came to Hawaii to seek a better life annual High School Valedictorians, hometown in Candon, Ilocos Sur. and greater opportunities. Trailblazer, and Parents of the Year Grace’s children include: daughter POTY nominee Alejandro Guira (POTY) Awards Banqueton August Lovely, a board-certified, registered Bumanglag is from Laoag City, Ilocos 26, 2016, atthe Empress Restaurant. physical therapist; son Ramon, a Norte. Alejandro was a valedictorian This year, 18 outstanding board-certified anesthesiologist; son at Filipinas Community High School valedictorians of Filipino ancestry Kendrick with a BS degree with (known today as San Nicholas Mayor Kirk Caldwell, PCFH's President Emeritus Maggie Domingo, Elaine Flores, were honored, and five outstanding Honors in Molecular Cell Biology who National High School). He majored 2016 Trailblazer Award Recipient Eddie Flores, Jr., Senator Clarence Nishihara, Council Parents of the Year (POTY) is currently attending Sidney Kimmel in Accounting atthe Divine World Member Ron Menor, 2015 Trailblazer Award Recipient Anacleto (Lito) Alcantra, Coun- nominees were recognized. Mr. Medical School on a U.S. Air Force College of Laoag. Alejandro retired cil Member Joey Manahan, Representative Romy Cachola, William Cudal, and PCFH's President Janice Sevilla. Eddie Flores, Jr. was selected as the full-tuition scholarship; son Kenneth from the New York Life Insurance Trailblazer Award’s second recipient. who is in the U.H. Doctor of Medicine company in 2002. Divina Paguirigan The parents were nominated for their Early Acceptance Program; and Ulep Bumanglag graduated from the sacrifices and perseverance in daughter Tia, a senior at Damien Divine World College at Laoag with a building strong families and Memorial School who aspires to BA. She retired as a Nursing Aide at encouraging their children to pursue become a dentist. Ann Pearl Nursing Home in higher education, serve the POTYnomineesGerry and Kaneohe. Their three children are all community, and have successful, Evelyn Rojo are blessed with three college graduates -- Geraldine, Allen, productive, and rewardinglives. To children: Gerald, Grace, and Glory. and Beatriz. be nominated for the award,at least Gerry has a BA in Political Science. POTY nominee Abelardo Diana Front Row: Gerald Rojo, II, Isidra Osalvo, Victoria Osalvo, and Jean Sumagit. Back Row: Grace Rojo, Gerry and Evelyn Rojo, Glory Rojo, and Melissa Rojo. three children must have attained a4- He immigrated to Hawaii in 1974 from Dela Cruz is from Manaoag, year college degree. This year’s Ilocos Sur. He owns and operates Pangasinan. Abelardo graduated in nominees were Herman “Gerry” and the Gerry Rojo Driving School, Inc. 1970 with a BS in Commerce. A year Evelyn Rojo, Timothy and Ailyn Evelyn obtained her BS in Agriculture later, Abelardo immigrated to Hawaii (Parubrub) Lum, Helena Grace and Economics prior to immigrating and worked 36 years for Duty Free Villanueva Go, Alejandro and Divina to Hawaii in 1984. She is currently Shops (DFS) starting as an entry Bumanglag, and Abelardo and Diana the Office and Accounting Manager level position and retiring as the Dela Cruz. for Pacific Preferred Contractors Logistic Department Manager. His Grace Villanueva Go was Corporation. wife Diana immigrated to Hawaii in selected as the 2016 Parent of the POTY nominees Timothy Lum 1971 from Midsayap, Mindanao. The children and friends of POTY 2016 nominees Alejandro and Divina Bumanglag. Year award for her valiant efforts works as a Controller for Aloha Diana is currently an accountant with andoutstanding commitment to Petroleum and his wife Ailyn the State of Hawaii’s Department of raising and providing for her five Parubrub Lum is a Legal Clerk for Housing. The Dela Cruz’s have three children under trying circumstances the City’s Office of the Prosecuting grown children -- Geoffrey, Abbi, and after the death of her late husband Attorney. The Lums are blessed with Nicole. Ramon in 2008.Grace has provided four children -- Christopher, Mitchell, The 2016 Trailblazer Award her children a good example from her Daniel, and Marissa. Ailyn’s father went to Eddie Flores, Jr., the President own life as she works as a successful Sergio H. Parubrub was among the & Chief Executive Officer of L&L medical professional while managing last wave of sakadas (Filipino Drive-Inn Restaurant and L&L Hawaiian Barbecue. Eddie immigrated to Hawaii at the age of 16. POTY 2016 nominees Tim and Ailyn Lum with their supportive family and friends. 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 The family and friends of POTY nominee Grace Go were present to cheer her on Front Row: POTY 2016 Nominees: Gerry & Evelyn Rojo, Ailyn & Timothy Lum, Community Center. as she was named POTY 2016. Abelardo & Diana Dela Cruz, Grace Go, and Alejandro & Divina Bumanglag. THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2016 • PAGE 21 Amanda Herolaga, CLASSIFIED ADS HELP WANTED Shyloe Tote, Aizea Ranon JANITOR: Pay $8.50- $10.00/hr Looking for candidates with 1 year and Casey Metrose “This year again, this contest commercial experience. Buffing, brought the youth in Hawai‘i and waxing & cleaning floors. — Award Recipients at the Letter to My Parents™ Contest their parents to get connected for a Shampooing & vacuuming stronger bonding. It turned out to carpets. Cleaning common in Hawai‘i Waipahu, Nov. 19, 2016 areas. Must be able to lift 50- be a full day of pleasant surprises. 70 lbs. Call Staffing Many of the parents who were Partners at 945-9300. The Final Presentation for the After the letters were read, the The judges were Dwayne present were not aware why they Letter to My Parents™ Contest in nine participants received a $50 Gift Manzanillo, (Teach er, James were there. Once letters were pre- LABOR: Hawai‘i was held on Saturday, No- Certificate along a Certificate of Campbell High School), Joanne sented, many parents were LITE INDUSTRIAL/ vember 19, 2016, during the Participation, Gift Certificate from Corpus (Zippy’s), and Alvin Ishihara touched emotionally as well as LABORERS “‘OhanaDay Celebration” pre- Zippy’s, a Free Online E-book sub- (Reiyukai America). pleased by learning how their chil- - Warehouse sented by Reiyukai America where scription with a free pizza coupon Noriko Sotta, Member of the dren were thinking about them- - Driver Helper nine contestants recited their let- courtesy of Read 2 Succeed Foun- Reiyukai America National Com- selves simultaneously willing to - Production Line ters dedicated to their parents. The dation. Each of the contestants will mittee notes, “We are very pleased improve the relationship they have. - Food Prep/Dishwashers Contest is organized by the be also receiving a “1 Year to see this year again many fami- We have been supporting this con- Pay $8.50 - $9.50/hr 6 mos of recent work experience needed. Kalamansi Books and Things, TestPrep Course Subscription” lies were able to get together. And test for the last three years because Sariling Gawa Youth Council, Inc., courtesy of BenchPrep. on behalf of the Organizing Com- For interviews call our Ala we believe this project offers the Moana office 945-9300, and Reiyukai America. Based on the guidelines, the mittee, we are grateful to all our youth an opportunity to communi- Staffing Partners. A total of 187 letters from 21 group of judges selected three supporters for their generous sup- cate with their families and that is different schools were submitted. award recipients. For this year’s port to make this event happening. what we care.” Stated Evelyn Llena, The Organizing Committee invited contest the awards were presented We would like to thank Hawaii’s past president of Filipino Associa- nine contestants—Masar to Amanda Herolaga for Bravery , Plantation Village, Solomon, tion of University Women, one of Abdeljawad, Maizie Distad, Shyloe Tote for Reflection and Deanna and Ashley Espinas, Fili- the sponsors of the event. Amanda Herolaga, Casey Metrose, AizeaRanon for Proposal. Each of pino Association of University For more information, contact Aizea Ranon, Julienne Saladino, them received a prize of $500. For Woman (FAUW), Read 2 Succeed Rose Churma or Toshiro Obara at Hannah Smas ne, Timoteo this year, there was another award Foundation, Suntory Restaurant, 808.358.2868, info@lettertomy Sumalinog, and Shyloe Tote— to – “Spirit of Aloha” – which was Zippy’s, BenchPrep , GF Educa- parents.com. present their letters to their parents, awarded to Casey Metrose. Casey tors, Vicky Ramil, Alvin Ishihara, and Details also available at families, the general audience and received a $200 Dinner Certificate Gina Ramirez.” www.LetterToMyParents.com. the judges at the Hawaii’s Planta- courtesy of Suntory Restaurant in tion Village in Waipahu, O‘ahu. Waikiki.

The following valedictorians of Filipino ancestry were recognized and three (3) continuing scholarship awardees: SERVICES

2016 VALEDICTORIANS OF FILIPINO ANCESTRY WEDDINGS - Valedictorian High School Parents ANYTIME, ANYWHERE. Judge Graulty (retired) call 778-8510 1. Tiffany Alfaro Leilehua Larry & Rosalina Alfaro to schedule. 2. Aaron Brandt Campbell Jonathan & Pearl Brandt 3. Jazmine Calixtro Waianae Jerry & Hilda Calixtro 9-day Holy Land Tour 4. Gabrielle Dang Waipahu Damien & Marilyn Tibuc Dang A Journey of a Lifetime 5. Anna Davide Mililani Dr. Carolina Davide January 16-24, 2017 6. Jianna Orias Moanalua Jose Rico & Jane Orias Only $2700 7. Rhea Quezon Roosevelt Christopher Quezon Call Rev. Cir Domingo 8. Reginald Tolentino Moanalua Rommel & Imelda Tolentino (808) 391-5019 9. Blessie Vergara Leilehua Rodolfo & Grace Vergara 10. Jordan Abanto Radford Teddy & Josie Abanto BUSINESS OPPURTUNITY 11. Megan Andrada Waialua Eric & Marites Andrada Start a commercial 12. Daisy Fernando Farrington Daniel & Teresita Fernando cleaning business. 13. Melissa Guzon Damien Benjamin & Fortunata Guzon Low down payments, financ- 14. Sharie Mamuad Waipahu Sixto & Evelyn Mamuad ing, training and an inintial customer base. Immediate 15. Sally Millon Waipahu Guardians: opportunies in Hawaii. Ceferino & Francesca Pactanac CALL COVERALL TODAY AT 16. Michelle Mooney Waipahu Jeffrey & Brenda Mooney 808.225.2610 17. Tiannah Ohta Waipahu Todd & Marites Ohta This offer is made by prospectus only. See Franchise Disclosure 18. Joshua Udasco Waipahu Johnal Udasco Documents for details.

2016 CONTINUING PCFH $1,000 SCHOLARSHIP AWARDEES Recipient College Parents For Advertising 1. Charlene Racimo Chaminade Menardo & Carmen Racimo Major: Integrative & Organic Biology information, 2. Jamiel Ishaque UH – Manoa Ashar & Joan Ishaque Major: Civil Engineering please call 3. Kristina Angela Julian UH – Manoa Geffrey & Ernestina Julian Major: Nursing 595.8787