Season of Love Christmas Means

Finding Sugar Ray Dr. José Rizal: Meaning Leonard? What Do We This An inspirational and Really Know “real” talk about your About Him? Season health goals to Teens speak about welcome the New Students take a look their Christmas Year 2019. into his relevance. Page 1 Page 1 Page 5

December 2018 · Vol 2 No12 FILIPINO AMERICAN VOICE • UPLIFTING OUR COMMUNITY FREE inside Season Of Love Christmas means... Christmas is... This Sakada’s Offspring Hopes fulfilled, dreams to come! has engaged so much on Maui. Would you believe? Ghenesis Jhay Balaan p.6 t’s the season of giving, peace, and love. Christmas is filled with traditions, from I gifts wrapped under the tree to mistletoe hung in the doorways. Christmas used to be an annual festival held at churches to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. Now, when the word Christmas is mentioned, people think about presents, lights, trees, food, family, and Sometimes we need to do friends. As we celebrate the holidays, we are a double-take to identify, passing down the traditions to the next gener- Christmas defines who we are as we relate to each other—to our family, friends, who is the real Santa... ation. They are the ones who will keep the schoolmates, workmates and other people in our lives. What does Christmas mean to p.7 Christmas spirit alive in the future. Teens today you? see SEASON next page Welcome 2019 How do we really spend Start Strong–Start Now! the Christmas Season in our hearts? Sharon Zalsos Banaag p.12 erry Christmas to Coach, Health Community and you! My family Food. Armed with dedication, “M health issues really determination and self-discipline, helped me in my weight loss.” A Oandasan achieved her goal to strong why from Leizl Oandasan drop unnecessary weight, and of Kahului, past president of the more importantly, to live a Santo Niño Club of Maui, which healthier lifestyle. flourished under Oandasan’s She was so inspired by her leadership. In addition to her in- now health coach who also lost volvement with the Santo Niño fifty-seven pounds after being in Club of Maui, Oandasan is also a the program for eight months. supervisor at Marriot, Kä‘anapali, To witness someone’s health a mother of three and a grand- transform from bad to good, mother. She loves to travel and Oandasan wants to also inspire is involved in the Visayan com- others with her own success sto- munity statewide. How does she ry. Now, as with anything in life, make time for her health? “Since there are challenges and hurdles my Dad died from colon cancer to be faced. For her during this and my Mom is a dialysis pa- weight loss, it was rice. “I grew tient, and I myself have my own up eating rice all my life, three health issues, I decided to join a square meals a day included nutrition program.” According to rice. Food with high amounts of Leizl Oandasan inspires many with her determination and Oandasan, this program is com- sodium and sugar; I had to self-discipline. It is evident in a noticeable change to her prised of four components which change my eating habits to that body structure, but also to her personality, confidence, and includes Free Education, Health see START STRONG p.3 self-image that she exudes and carries well. PHOTO: LEIZL OANDASAN 99% of the time that I was on the 4 a.m. in the morning. If Louise could Season… skating rink” she said. It was also the ask Santa for one gift, it would be a rest of her family’s first time ice-skat- round trip ticket to Italy. “I want to from p. 1 ing, “so it was funny to see all of us visit my grandma and to explore the view the holidays as a reward after holding onto the wall for dear life.” country’s beautiful streets,” she added. completing another stressful half of a Katrina would definitely rather spend Katrina Rabang believes we need year in school. During the holiday sea- Christmas in the snow because “in more humanity in this world especial- son, they are able to thank their Hawai‘i we don’t get snow–only friends and family whose continued every once in a while at the peak of support and love keeps them inspired Haleakalä.” Since her family spends while they study. The celebration of most of their holidays in Hawai‘i, it giving, and the celebration of family would be nice to spend it somewhere and friends are not really new but where it snows. they are new in that today they are Christmas has a special place in Ka- trina's heart, it’s the time where she can spend time with family. A lot of families, including her own are very busy throughout the year. Christmas is the one day they can all spend time Louise Dantes together. Her mom usually makes pancit or Filipino desserts to celebrate. to those around her. “I love the hype Some of her favorite Christmas tradi- leading up to it. Whether it would be tions are going with her family to through setting up a Christmas tree, church in the morning and then re- shopping for friends and family, bak- turning home to open presents. Later ing, making gingerbread houses, open- at night, her whole family, including ing advent calendars, or watching aunties, uncles, grandparents, and Christmas movies,” she added. Just Katrina Rabang cousins have a get-together at one of thinking of Christmas makes Louise her family member’s house. “There, the happiest. ly because of the amount of negativity we eat lots of food, exchange gifts, Her holiday season revolves around and cruelty that people around the and sing karaoke” she added. her family, being merry, and experi- world are experiencing from others. To Louise Dantes, Christmas means encing euphoria. One of her favorite This is why for Christmas, if she could a time of pure bliss. Once December Christmas memories is celebrating in ask Santa for one gift, it would be Katrina Tolentino 1st comes around, she is instantly hit the Philippines in 2016. “I have never everlasting world peace. She prefers by excitement. She enjoys shopping felt the spirit of Christmas as much as giving rather than receiving because what defines Christmas. and wrapping gifts for her family and I did there.” Louise hadn’t celebrated she enjoys seeing the smiles on peo- “Family, Joyful, and Magical.” This friends during this time. “I prefer giv- Christmas with so many of her rela- ple’s faces after they open their gift is what Katrina Tolentino describes ing presents rather than receiving be- tives before and seeing everyone so from her. “I also don’t like to ask for her Christmas experience every year. cause knowing that I made someone grateful and happy, even by the small- much because I’m grateful for what I One of her favorite Christmas memo- happy already satisfies me and I est things, made her realize what already have,” she said. ries is going to Las Vegas last Christ- wouldn’t have asked for more,” she Christmas really means. Christmas is Katrina uses the three words: fes- mas and ice-skating for the first time. said. What Louise enjoys the most really hyped in the Philippines and she tive, heartwarming, and joyful to de- She was very inexperienced and was about Christmas is the joyful spirit it remembers attending church around scribes Christmas. She celebrates scared of falling. “I held on to the wall gives out, not only to herself but also see SEASON p.4

From the Officers, Directors and Members of the BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jorge Tirona Leo Agcolicol PRESIDENT Aris Banaag Melen Agcolicol VICE PRESIDENT Kauanoe Batangan Elsa Agdinaoay-Segal Clayton Fuchigami SECRETARY Lawrence Pascua Dulce Butay J.R. Regalado TREASURER Dominic Suguitan Sharon Zalsos Richard Minatoya IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT LEGAL COUNSEL Lilia Zalsos-Ross Officers and Board Members were sworn in by San Juan Metro-Manila Mayor Guia Guanzon Gomez Become A Member! Visit... www.mauifilipinochamber.com/join

2 | Fil-Am Voice | December 2018 | Vol 2 • No 12 Myrna stands with other wor- thy competitors PHOTO COURTESY MYRNA BAGGAO BREEN

Myrna Baggao Breen won the International Multi Sport Expo: Natural Body Building competition in 2014. PHOTO COURTESY MYRNA BAGGAO BREEN

that time, I was fifteen pounds heavier Start Strong… than what I wanted to be and less en- ergetic for sure. I was only thirty-four from p. 1 years old, so I knew I didn’t have any of healthy foods. My liquid intake is excuse to be so sluggish. Dee gave me half of my body weight,” she added. “I simple steps to follow and follow those stand by my passion to pay it forward simple steps I did! Chris Dee (right) motivated me by telling and also inspire others. Should anyone 1. Make a decision in your mind to in the community be interested in me that she doesn’t make a change and off you go. It “work with lazy and making a life change and live healthi- means now. Not tomorrow morn- unmotivated people.” er, I am happy to help and make my- ing when you wake up; not after PHOTO COURTESY self available to coach them as well. New Year when all the good eat- SHARON ZALSOS BANAAG Message me on Facebook.” ings are done; make a decision… Another example is Myrna Baggao NOW! Breen, who four years ago won the In- 2. Wake up in the morning and drink ternational Multi Sport Expo: Natural a protein shake. Body Building competition. Not only did Breen conquer her challenges, she 3. Do stretches in the morning start- also dominated in the competition. ing with ten minutes of simple And to think she was already over fifty stretches, followed by a ten-minute years old when she competed. Her walk around your neighborhood. competitors were ten to twenty years Just do something every day to junior. Her secret? “Fitness is about at- move your body. titude, nutrition and exercise,” shared 4. Plan your meal and pack your own Breen. “If you can wake up to go to lunch. Have boiled eggs, fruits, work, you can wake up to go to the veggie snacks, nuts and lots of wa- gym to train.” Breen believes good nu- ter. Have yogurt for snack with trition starts in our own kitchen. The berries but no granola (too much ability to control the ingredients in sugar and grain). Have a sensible your food is powerful. She is also a big lunch with salad with protein proponent of eating clean. Now, what (chicken or steak). If you really does this mean exactly? Basically, it need to have rice, make it brown means eating whole foods in their or wild rice but a small portion of most natural state and avoiding quinoa for grain as it’s high on processed foods such as refined sugar. protein. For snacking have a slice Clean eating may simply mean saying of fruit with cottage cheese and no to gluten, grains, and dairy prod- hydrate. Always have munchies ucts and yes on eating raw food. A ready and don’t be hungry. boiled sweet potato for instance is bet- 5. For dinner, have protein and veg- ter than enjoying a slice of sweet po- gies like broccoli, beans, cauli- tato pie. Have boiled eggs for break- flower, etc. Snack on cottage fast or a snack to replace your egg cheese and sliced pineapples too if burrito to go. Skip the slice of cake at you get the urge to snack after din- parties and have an orange or a plate- ner and hydrate. full of sliced fruit medley–food at its I followed her meal plans guide most natural state. and without working out, I lost ten About this time in 2012, I was seat- pounds in thirty days. And I didn’t skip ed next to my good friend and person- Vacation be er. a meal. Replacing rice, potato, pasta al trainer, Chris Dee, who is also a DJ and bread was a simple brain choice. We offer the perfect fit for your for 94.3 FM. I asked her what it takes But I had a ready replacement which next stay. to be trained by her. I told her how helped with the transition. What pro- Oahu Maui Kauai lazy I was and I couldn’t stand the pelled my health over the top was get- Hawaii Island South Tahoe thought of working out. “Oh, then I ting a personal trainer (no, it wasn’t can’t train you. I don’t work with lazy, Orlando Costa Rica Dee) and being on a training regimen unmotivated people. But I’m sure you four to five days a week, fifty minutes aqua-aston.com | 855.945.4092 can always find someone else,” Dee a day. Thank you Mike Labuanan. He replied. Wow. I was stunned but not was not the nicest trainer to ever walk for a loss of words so I followed my the planet but boy did he kick my be- inquiry by asking what simple things HOTELS FOR ALL hind in shape! Labuanan is a no-non- could I start doing to propel me to move forward to a better health. At see START STRONG p.13

Vol 2 • No 12 | December 2018 | Fil-Am Voice | 3 Season… from p. 2

From the Christmas because not only is it her favorite holiday but since her family Editor’s Desk is very religious, they celebrate it in Tante Urban honor of the birth of Jesus Christ. EDITOR & PRESIDENT • FIL-AM VOICE Every Christmas, her family would go to mass in the morning and have a family gathering at night where they would play games, open gifts, and spend time with one another. Some Celebrating Christmas of her Christmas traditions also include spending time with her Life Teen group at Church. and New Year’s As much as Romelyn Tabangcura s we approach the end of kutsinta, and my favorite festive loves Hawai‘i, she would rather Cheyenne Magno 2018 and the beginning of beverage is a glass of red wine. spend Christmas in the snow. “I think 2019, let me first say thank Our transition to the New Year it would be an amazing sight to see A snow fall and make snow angels and family, they try to spread as much you, on behalf of the Fil-Am Voice, includes a pause on December 30 snowmen with my family and Christmas cheer as they can by deco- to our staff, our advertisers, and with the celebration of Rizal Day. rating the outdoors with inflatables, our readers for another year of We continue to celebrate the death friends,” she said. Romelyn celebrates Christmas by decorating the house lights, reindeer, and other decora- your hard work, financial backing, anniversary of Jose Rizal, one of tions. One unique Christmas tradition and general support. Maraming the Philippines’ greatest heroes. In with a Christmas tree and stringing Christmas lights around their proper- that the Magno family does is to Salamat Po! this issue, our Google Is Not Every- prank each other with unusual gifts The end of the year is always thing column focuses on our high wrapped in deceiving wrapping. On marked by the hustle and bustle of school youth’s perceptions on one Christmas, she received an trying to complete projects and whether Jose Rizal is still impor- “iPad” from her older brother. How- plan for the coming year. For those tant today. ever, when she opened the box, she of us in business, we are focused As we look forward to the New was crushed to find a book. on ensuring we have met our goals Year, many of us will make resolu- “I would rather spend Christmas for the year and our plans for next tions that involve our personal re- in Hawai‘i because I’m not really a year are in place. lationships, financial well-being, big fan of the cold,” she said. To her, and health Christmas means loving, receiving, concerns. and giving. “Christmas gives us the Many of us opportunity to share the extra special joke how our moments with our family while we resolutions– have them and to be appreciative for especially those what you have,” she added. If she involving los- could ask Santa for one gift, it would ing weight– be to see her grandfather for one last are broken by time. He died when she was at a the time we young age so Cheyenne didn’t really take our first Romelyn Tabangcura have the chance to meet him proper- bite of the le- ly so it would be great to hear his chon during ty. Their family gathers to eat and voice again. our family get “Love, Unity, and Wholesome.” As Filipinos, we celebrate Christ- togethers. But as Sharon Zalsos Ba- exchange gifts. She enjoys Christmas because everyone is in such a happy This is what Gabrielle Pastor de- mas and New Year with a bang. naag writes, health and being fit is scribes her Christmas experience Here on Maui, our Filipino commu- important so if you need to concen- mood. She spends her holiday season nity gathers for celebrations galore. trate on your health in 2019, watching Christmas movies and lis- The other week for example, my please be serious about it. We want tening to Christmas songs with her wife Telly and I were at Binhi at all of you to lead a healthy life in siblings. Rockin’ Around the Christmas Ani for three straight days for fam- 2019 and beyond! Tree is her favorite festive song. Be- ily and community celebrations. As we toast the New Year, let us sides the lyrics being very catchy, the Wrapped up in our festivities are remember those who have gone song puts her in the Christmas spirit. traditions that our forefathers before us to pave the way for our Christmas to Romelyn means a brought from the Philippines: parol family and our community. I am time of giving and being thankful for making, Christmas caroling, visiting eternally grateful for my late par- everything that she’s have been family and friends, making canca- ents, Daniel Urban and Felicitas blessed with. Her favorite Christmas nen, and exchanging of gifts. For Tolentino Urban for their sacrifices memory is when she was in the me, my favorite Christmas carol is and hard work. Dios ti agngina. Philippines and her family would Have Yourself A Merry Little Christ- Agyamannak unay iti tulong yo ka- gather around and make food togeth- mas, my favorite kankanen is puto niak. er. It was nothing extravagant like how we celebrate it now here in the United States where we exchange presents but it was still very special to her. When it comes to receiving or Editor • Publisher Contributing Writers Tante Urban giving gifts, Romelyn prefers giving Gabrielle Pastor info@filamvoicemaui.com Elsa Agdinaoay-Segal Elizabeth Ayson, Ph.D. presents because she loves shopping Vince Bagoyo, Jr. for people and later seeing their re- Asst. Editor • Co-Publisher every year. She enjoys seeing every- L OCATION Alfredo G. Evangelista Sharon Zalsos Banaag action when they open the gifts. “I info@filamvoicemaui.com 24 Central Avenue Dulce K. Butay think the feeling of giving back to one’s Christmas decorations and the Wailuku, Maui, Hawai‘i Alfredo G. Evangelista thought of spending time with family Art Director • Co-Publisher someone you're thankful for is much USA 96793 Lawrence Pascua Gilbert Keith-Agaran for the holidays. Gabrielle also loves Lawrence Pascua more special than receiving a gift,” C ONTACT graphics@filamvoicemaui.com going out to buy presents for her Lucy Peros she said. Tel: (808) 242-8100 Acct Executive • Co-Publisher friends and loved ones because it’s Sharon Zalsos Banaag Liza Pierce Cheyenne Magno describes her Email: info@filamvoicemaui.com John Tomoso Christmas as festive, merry, and all the perfect opportunity to give back info@filamvoicemaui.com Tante Urban about family. What she enjoys about to them and share the Christmas spir- I NTERNET Co-Publisher it. She also enjoys watching Christ- Web: Vince Bagoyo, Jr. Distribution Manager Christmas is that the whole month is info@filamvoicemaui.com mas movies during the winter and www.filamvoicemaui.com Paul Manzano basically a never-ending holiday for Facebook: her family. Four out of five of her her favorite movie to watch would be Co-Publisher Web Master Elizabeth Ayson, Ph.D. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. facebook.com/FilAmVoiceMaui Nick Ponte family members have birthdays in info@filamvoicemaui.com December so there’s basically a party She’s always wanted to travel to New The Fil-Am Voice, a newspaper focusing on issues concerning our Filipino American community here on Maui, is published every month. every week. Cheyenne celebrates York and see the tall buildings, espe- ©2018 Fil-Am Voice Inc. All rights reserved. The Fil-Am Voice is valued at $1 per issue. One complimentary copy per person is available at is- cially in the winter when it’s freezing! landwide distribution locations. Multiple copies may not be taken without the permission from the Fil-Am Voice. Disclaimer: The views and Christmas with family to honor the opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Fil-Am Voice, Inc. Any assumptions made within these articles are not reflective of the position of Fil-Am Voice, Inc. birth of Jesus Christ. Along with her see SEASON p.13

4 | Fil-Am Voice | December 2018 | Vol 2 • No 12 José Protacio Rizal Mercado Mhikee Daong Jill Teneza Ghenesis Balaan Nicole Anne Guzman y Alonso Realonda

osé Rizal–a national the sword.’ He did not was a pen and a piece of paper, in hero of the Philippines ® entertain the thought of which he called for his fellow citizens J who began a revolution violence in his head. to fight for their homeland,” says against the Spanish Govern- He wrote about the Maui High School Junior Nicole ment to achieve freedom for cruelty of Spaniards to Anne Guzman. José Rizal fought his country through his writ- Filipinos and when the colonization by using peace as “He be- ings. He was not only a skilled Is Not Everything… Spaniards found out, lieved that everyone was good deep writer, he was also a doctor, they executed him. His within them” but Nicole points out an architect and was immense- Jose Rizal: Bayani ng Pilipinas actions and words “However, the occurrence of violence ly talented in the field of arts. sparked the Philippine is always going to be present. Certain He was well known for his Romelyn Joy Tabangcura | M AUI HIGH SCHOOL revolution.” Ghenesis individuals are never satisfied with novel Noli Me Tangere pub- considers José Rizal to what they have, therefore they will do lished in 1886 that described be courageous and anything to get what they want even the societal details of the Philippines “José Rizal initiated violence-free clever which is why he believes that if violence is involved.” Thanks to José and skillfully expressed the wrongdo- protests against the Spanish govern- “students should learn about José Rizal’s determination and good deeds, ings of the Spanish Government that ment for the Philippines’ freedom. He Rizal because he plays an integral part Nicole lives comfortably: “We can be the Filipino people encountered dur- helped gain independence for the of Filipino culture just like how ourselves freely, without him we ing the time of the Spanish coloniza- Philippines as they were under Span- George Washington and the founding would be under the control of the tion. Simply because of José Rizal's ish colonial rule for hundreds of years. fathers played an important role in the Spaniards.” She describes José Rizal bravery and accomplishments, he has Also, he spread the importance of ed- creation of the United States of Amer- as a leader and intelligent as she aims inspired numerous people to be dedi- ucation.” José Rizal believed that the ica.” to follow José Rizal’s footsteps in pur- cated and aim to achieve a better ed- right way to achieve freedom for his José Rizal, the man who serves as suing her academic goals of becoming ucation and pursue a successful life. country was through peace and not a role model to generations of Fil- a doctor. Many students look up to José acts of violence. “I agree with him be- ipinos, continues to serve as a role Today, many Filipinos view José Rizal, as he is a well-known heroic fig- cause violence can taint their reputa- model to teens because “He saved his Rizal as a national hero. This makes ure of the Philippines. Mhikee tion and they may be seen as barbar- country from being dictated by Spain José Rizal a historical figure still rele- Daoang, a Filipino American from ians. If they didn’t use violence, they without going to war. All he needed see RIZAL p.14 Maui High School would have a better shares that he views chance at getting what José Rizal as a hero be- they needed. He didn’t cause “Without his just speak up for him- guidance, persever- self, he spoke for the ance, and bravery, we whole country. He also would have received knew the importance our freedom much lat- of education and want- er or maybe even not ed to help others,” says Polystyrene foam food and beverage at all.” Mhikee not only Jillian since she too, considers José Rizal as shared similar philoso- containers will be banned for use, sale or a heroic figure but was phies as José Rizal. Jil- provision eﬀective December 31, 2018. also inspired by Rizal’s lian describes José actions. “Not only was Rizal as brave, consid- José Rizal a hero but erate, and kind as she BE AWARE Protecting he was also highly in- continues to further AND PREPARE telligent. He traveled her education in hopes Wildlife to many places where In 1882, Rizal was introduced of reaching her aca- The ban will aﬀect Maui he learned many lan- into the order of Masons. demic goals with the County food providers Reducing guages and experi- same mindset as José that now serve food or ences. So, there’s a lot to look up to. Rizal. beverages in polystyrene Plastic Waste I am extremely inspired by everything José Rizal’s legacy continues to in- food-service containers, he did because Rizal’s legacy takes spire generations of teens across the asOur well asroots businesses part in diminishing the cultural inferi- world. “I am personally inspired by that sell polystyrene Combating ority that is still very prominent in the him because he used what he loved to food-service products. Climate Change Philippines.” As a result of José Rizal’s do in order to change the world. This run deep These businesses will accomplishments, Mhikee is happy to is how he defined his purpose. His soon provide alternative say “Through Rizal’s hardships, I am death sparked the Philippines’ revolu- For six generations and counting, families and farmers have products for your able to live comfortably and proudly.” tion from Spain. It takes bravery to go turned to Bayer – because advancing health and nutrition is Teens today still continue to study against a powerful nation controlling convenience.what we do best and care about most.

José Rizal as Mhikee believes “Stu- your motherland. But he did anyway Shaping agriculture to bene昀t farmers, consumers and the dents definitely need to learn about because of his love for his fellow planet helps us pursue our purpose. We’re thankful and José Rizal. Although his people should countrymen,” says Ghenesis Bal- proud to be a part of Hawaii agriculture, and of our employee be aware of what he did for them, I aan, a junior from Maui High School. ‘ohana’s 50 years of history in the islands. think everyone in general should be José Rizal has accomplished various educated about him as well. Not only achievements in his lifetime. For in- Warmest mahalo for your support. Filipinos. If no one were to learn stance, he traveled overseas and grad- about José Rizal and what he did, all uated abroad to strive to become a his sacrifices were for nothing.” doctor despite the racial and financial Bayer.us @Bayer4CropsHI BayerCropScienceHawaii Many students agree José Rizal was difficulties that were quite prominent an important individual in Filipino back then. José Rizal’s accomplish- History. Maui High Sophomore Jill ments impacted the way Ghenesis ///////// Science for a better life Teneza considers José Rizal as an views José Rizal because “he believed important historical figure because in the saying ‘the pen is mightier than mauicounty.gov/foamfree

Vol 2 • No 12 | December 2018 | Fil-Am Voice | 5 Sakada Offspring

Shirley, 16 years old, with her Mom Julia and Dad Crispulo (right).

May 31, 1970 - Shirley crowned as the first Miss Shirley as Miss Maria Clara with her Barrio Fiesta. Dr. Jose Romero escort Ted Manzano and Rev. Justo presented her trophy (left). Dec. 1993 - Shirley with her student. 9th Grade Graduation. Andres presenting her trophy.

positive attitude, with compassion and the love to teach, they succeeded. To- Shirley Siores Evangelista day, the program has expanded to all the public schools on Maui. Lucy Peros | A LL PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHIRLEY EVANGELISTA Shirley taught at Wailuku Elemen- tary for ten years and two years as a ike our Sakada fathers, grandfa- she and her mother reached Hawai‘i. ipino Radio Announcer for KNUI. Campus Aide at Baldwin High School. thers, and great grandfathers She entered second grade at Ola‘a El- In 1968, Shirley followed her par- She taught English as a second lan- L before us, we, second or third ementary School on Hawai‘i Island. ents to Maui with Mr. Domingo’s en- guage, counseled, and planned pro- generations Filipino-Americans also She was so afraid to go to school and couragement. He wanted her to come grams at Baldwin High School. She al- have many stories to share and tell re- even hid under the wooden school- to Maui to help uplift the image of the so taught at Maui High School with garding our challenges, frustrations, house. She was afraid of the school Filipinos especially the Filipino youths. Elizabeth Menor. They taught Adult and successes as we were immersed principal because he reminded her of While on Maui, she worked with Dr. Education, Cosmopolitan and Filipino into the life here on the islands of the Japanese soldiers in the Philip- Alan Miyamoto as his Dental Assistant. Cooking classes. Shirley also taught at Hawai‘i. pines during World War II. With her Shirley became involved with Fil- Lihikai Elementary and ‘Ïao Intermedi- Shirley Evangelista is our featured cousins, they walked barefoot one mile ipino activities and organizations. She ate Schools. Sakada Offspring who came to Hawai‘i to go to school and one mile back to was crowned as the first Miss Barrio In the late 1980s, Shirley worked with her mother, Julia Siores Evange- go home. At school, Shirley recalls, Fiesta on May 31, 1970. She was also for the County of Maui’s Summer lista and their cousin, Corazon Man- they played with sticks hitting it as if chosen as Miss Maria Clara around the Youth Employment Program. Today, zano in June 1946 on board the S.S. it was a baseball to see how far they same time. we can see the fruit of their labor with Marine Falcon, the first boat of fami- could hit it. The person who hit the In the 1970s, there was an influx of the rows of coconut trees that they lies from the Philippines. They came to stick the farthest was the winner. Oth- Filipino families with young children planted along the Kahului Beach Road follow her father, Crispulo Evangelista er games they played were catching on Maui. Then Mayor Elmer Cravalho next to the Maui Arts and Cultural who was a Sakada from Urdaneta, and kicking bean bags, blowing bub- inquired with future Judge Artemio Center across the Kahului Harbor by Pangasinan, Philippines. bles using detergent and papaya Baxa if he knew of any Filipino teach- the food vendors. At around the same Actually, Crispulo Evangelista first stalks, sling shots made of guava ers who could help the Filipino youths time, Shirley’s Filipino Baldwin High came to Hawai‘i in 1921 with his fa- branches, swinging because of the lan- Youth Group cleaned the hill in front ther, Laureano Molina Evangelista and on vines Tarzan guage problem in of the High School overlooking the his sister Lucina. He was only fourteen style, and even play- the schools. Baxa ap- school parking lot. They planted beau- years old. They settled on Kaua‘i. Lau- ing house with her proached Shirley and tiful bougainvilias to beautify the cam- reano worked for the Lïhu‘e Sugar girl friends cooking Nancy Andres, who pus. It is being enjoyed by all today as Plantation. Since Crispulo was too with their cooking had initiated the they drive by Ka‘ahumanu Avenue. young to work in the field, he became toys. They were very Barrio Fiesta, having Shirley wore many hats. She was an errand boy doing odd jobs for the resourceful as kids. arrived from the also a PBX operator at the old Maui plantation bosses and their families. Shirley enjoyed Philippines after a Palms Hotel and the Maui Beach Hotel Life was hard in the Evangelista fami- attending Hilo High brief stay in Honolu- from 1980—2001. ly. They decided to move to Ola‘a on School. After high lu. Both Shirley and Shirley recalls her Christmas expe- the Big Island of Hawai‘i. Ola‘a is school, she headed Nancy accepted and riences and memories: “Christmas is a presently called Kea‘au. to Santa Clara Hos- welcomed the chal- time when we thank God for His many In September 1936, Crispulo went pital School of Nurs- lenge. Shirley quit blessings to us. Although we are busy back home to Urdaneta, Pangasinan, ing in California. She her Dental Assistant during the year, Christmas gives us a Philippines. That’s when he met a then transferred to job and the bilingual chance to get together with family and beautiful young lady at a sari-sari San Jose City Col- program in the friends, far and near. Despite being store where he went to buy some cig- lege and there she Shirley Evangelista schools on Maui was poor, we always had food to eat, to arettes. Although there were many met two girls from born. Shirley and share with family and friends. When I other available young ladies in Ur- Hawai‘i who were going into the col- Nancy set up the program from was in the Philippines, I was still too daneta, Crispulo fell in love at first lege’s Dental Assistant Program. The scratch. To help them get started, they young to know about Christmas. We sight with Julia Siores. They were Dental Assistant Program was very attended numerous workshops, confer- have families visit and special foods married in 1937. Their daughter inviting to Shirley. She embraced the ences, meetings with principals and were served. When we came to Shirley was born a year later. opportunity and succeeded. She teachers using countless hours of their Hawai‘i, my parents and I went to Because of World War II, Crispulo worked as a Dental Assistant for ten own time in developing the program. church on Christmas eve. When we stayed in the Philippines until 1946. years. On weekends, she worked as a These two ladies paved the way for came home, we had bowls of hot ar- One day he received a letter from his nurse’s aide at O’Connor Hospital. Filipino teachers to teach in the roz caldo, suman, bibingka and hot co- father Laureano saying that HSPA In the early 1960s, Rafael Cabebe Hawai‘i Department of Education. coa.” (Hawai‘i Sugar Planters Association) and Nicanor Domingo encouraged Some administrators and teachers Shirley hardly remembers exchang- was recruiting workers to work in the Crispulo and Julia to move to Maui. even looked down on Shirley and ing gifts at Christmas time. Instead, sugar plantations in Hawai‘i. With the They accepted the opportunity and Nancy as they tackled their jobs as she remembers having new dresses on encouragement of his brother in law moved. It was a blessing in disguise. bilingual teachers especially when stu- Christmas and new pajamas on New Vicente, he went to Vigan, Ilocos Sur They opened their tailor shop in Hap- dents from other ethnic groups came Year’s from her parents. to sign up. He came to Hawai‘i with py Valley located across the former into the program. They questioned While in Hawai‘i, on Christmas his cousin, Teofilo Manzano and his T.K. Supermarket adjacent to the for- how Shirley and Nancy would teach Day, Shirley’s family went to her Un- nephew, Silberio Libao on board the mer George Guerrero’s Market. Crispu- multi-lingual students. Shirley nicely cle’s house where there were lots of S.S. Maunawili, leaving Port Salo- lo was very active in the Filipino Com- put her answer to their question and prepared foods like broiled fish, chick- mague in Cabugao, Ilocos Sur, Philip- munity. He worked at Maui Memorial said, “As long as you have compassion en and pork adobo and desserts galore pines. Park as a salesman. He worked as a and the love to teach, you can teach like patupat, bico, suman and bibingka. Shirley was eight years old when travel agent and he was the first Fil- anybody.” With Shirley’s and Nancy’s see OFFSPRING p.8 6 | Fil-Am Voice | December 2018 | Vol 2 • No 12 Carolers from Good Shepherd Episcopal Church (left) dressed in red before caroling. PHOTO: ???

Santa Keith-Agaran and his Senate staff elves (left). PHOTO COURTESY GILBERT S.C. KEITH-AGARAN

Lydia Coloma and Good Shepherd’s angels Clarita Dela Cruz caroling. (right) for the Christ- mas pageant PHOTO COURTESY GILBERT S.C. KEITH-AGARAN PHOTO COURTESY GILBERT S.C. KEITH-AGARAN

he holiday season has the front yard foliage and eaves in those days, that there went out a de- T come quickly and rather of my childhood home in Kahului cree from Caesar Augustus that all the quietly in my family. Dinengdeng as soon as the turkey was eaten. world should be taxed. (And this taxing No out-of-town visitors ex- Family traditions remain at the was first made when Cyrenius was gov- pected this year. heart of the holidays. We likely ernor of Syria.) We had a small intimate will attend the Christmas Pageant And all went to be taxed, every one Thanksgiving dinner gathering & Pinakbet put on by the children of the into his own city. And Joseph also went with simply my mother, my sis- Good Shepherd Episcopal Parish up from Galilee, out of the city of ter, her ex-husband/buddy, my Making it a Season for family, and a Carol Sing and Midnight Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of wife, and Makalapua, our new Mass on Christmas Eve. When the David, which is called Bethlehem; (be- Chug puppy. I heated up some friends, those less fortunate or kids are home from college, the cause he was of the house and lineage Costco ham (lightly honey suffering or in grief... Parish Youth usually does some of David:) To be taxed with Mary his glazed) and roasted turkey caroling Upcountry and in Cen- espoused wife, being great with child. breast, baked half a salmon filet Gilbert S.C. Keith-Agaran tral Maui. And so it was, that, while they were with pesto and the other half Filipinos, I think, simply get there, the days were accomplished that with butter pepper and mushrooms, spouse (a cradle Episcopalian from into all-things Christmas. As kids in she should be delivered. And she candied some Molokai sweet potatoes, Texas) still doesn’t buy my argument Pä‘ia, we had Cook Pine Christmas brought forth her firstborn son, and and mixed up one brown gravy. My that Filipinos play carols early because trees decorated with bright balls and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and spouse steamed some sweet corn-on- the Christmas season in the mother- tinsel. My grandfather would make laid him in a manger; because there the-cob, generously slathered with land begins in Autumn, I put on ear- parols from bamboo, twine and col- was no room for them in the inn. butter and lightly dusted with ‘alaea phones in adaptive cultural practice– ored crêpe paper. Doris Todd, where I And there were in the same country salt. My mom brought the steamed enjoying yuletide music in any month attended elementary school in Pä‘ia, shepherds abiding in the field, keeping rice and utong (no traditional fare like ending in “‘ber”. would put on an annual Christmas watch over their flock by night. And, lo, curry, pansit, spaghetti with hotdogs, In my wife’s view, people should Program–I still recall the tour de force the angel of the Lord came upon them, or cancanen). We finished with a slice follow the holidays in proper seasonal turned in by teacher Leta Carpenter as and the glory of the Lord shone round or so of pumpkin, custard or apple pie sequence. the Grinch Who Stole Christmas. about them: and they were sore afraid. topped with a scoop of ice cream if She was nevertheless amused when As I’ve written in these pages be- And the angel said unto them, Fear wanted. my mother left the Christmas lights up fore, I agree with Christian music not: for, behold, I bring you good tid- I’m one of those who like the on her house for an entire year. My artist Chris Tomlin who says: “I think ings of great joy, which shall be to all Christmas holidays. Recognizing my mom strung up Christmas lights on that deep inside, all of humanity people. For unto you is born this day knows there’s truth here, whether they in the city of David a Saviour, which is want to admit it or not. There’s a joy Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign that come in Christmas. There’s a sea- unto you; Ye shall find the babe son of giving, so people feel this gen- wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in erosity.” a manger. Let’s hope as 2018 comes to a close And suddenly there was with the an- that we take time for gel a multitude of the family and friends and heavenly host praising those less fortunate, suf- God, and saying, Glory fering or grieving during to God in the highest, the holiday season. and on earth peace, good As Linus from “A will toward men. (Luke Charlie Brown Christ- 2: 1—14 KJV) mas” reminds us, the meaning of Christmas Gilbert S.C. Keith- remains the hope that Agaran practices law in comes from gifts of Wailuku and represents Good Shepherd youth annually presents a Christmas pageant. love: Central Maui in the PHOTO: ??? And it came to pass Hawai‘i State Senate.

Maraming Salamat Po to our Get a Advertisers, Writers, Staff and Business Card Ad Maligayang Pasko Supporters. Remember, there With US! is no “I” in “Tim.” Sa Lahat! Whoops, we meant “TEAM!” from the Contact Sharon at 359-1616 or [email protected]

Vol 2 • No 12 | December 2018 | Fil-Am Voice | 7 From the … and our Fil-Am Voice Supporters

Above art: Frustrashow.com. (No copyright infringement is intended) HAVE YOURSELF A Wishing a MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS... From Very Happy Tessie Noble Holiday to All! 160 N. Market St. • Wailuku From (808) 244-4609 | (808) 249-8025 Email [email protected] Mila Medallon Kaahanui

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ran downstairs onto the snow-covered Offspring… lawn. They were very happy to see the snow for the first time. The next from p.6 morning, one of their nursing instruc- Christmas was also celebrated with tors took them to the mountains and nieces, nephews and cousins. They for sure they had their fill of snow ga- even had lechon pig and roasted lore. That was an unforgettable expe- turkey. However, now that the chil- rience for Shirley. Since then until to- dren are older and moved away, day, her favorite Christmas carol is Shirley’s family celebrates Christmas “White Christmas.” on December 20, her mother’s birth- Shirley’s favorite Christmas orna- day. Sadly, Julia recently passed away ment is the parol, a star made of bam- on November 28, just a few weeks shy Shirley (third from left) with Nancy Andres (fourth from left) and other members boo and decorated with colorful tissue of her 98th birthday. Julia is now re- of the Maui Filipino Community Council with Mayor Elmer Cravalho signing or cellophane papers. Her own stu- united with Crispulo, who passed a Proclamation. dents taught her how to make them. away in 1983. Some of her students’ parents also Shirley confessed she still believes yearly Christmas party. The young ry that Shirley experienced was during made beautiful parols for her. in Santa Claus because she feels it is children would do the Christmas car- her first year of college. There were “Life is a meal,” says Shirley. “Live part of the magic of the season. She oling and the older ones would do the four students who stayed in the dormi- it with flavor. Spice it with interest in also enjoys the stories of Santa Claus. play. Each child would receive a bag tory that year at Christmas time. They people, places and things. Serve it Shirley has vivid memories of containing an orange, an apple, nuts couldn’t go home. One morning, one with a feast of color and life becomes Christmases past when she was living and Christmas candies. of the girls pounded on Shirley’s door full and rich.” on the Ola‘a plantation. They had a Another priceless Christmas memo- yelling, “Get up it’s snowing!” They all see OFFSPRING p.14

8 | Fil-Am Voice | December 2018 | Vol 2 • No 12 If you have a photograph of a community event, please email to [email protected]. Around Our Community Please include a short description, your name and contact information. This month’s community photos highlight the “Salamat Po!” celebration on Dec. 13 at Tante’s Fishmarket Restaurant & Bar, hosted by Fil-Am Voice newspaper.

Sushi Boat Alfredo, Student Writers and Tante The Tomosos with Alfredo PHOTO: BASILIA EVANGELISTA PHOTO: BASILIA EVANGELISTA PHOTO: BASILIA EVANGELISTA

Bessy Evangelista and Eugenia Eugenia and Hayde Paul Manzano & Dulce Butay PHOTO: ALFREDO EVANGELISTA PHOTO: BASILIA EVANGELISTA PHOTO: BASILIA EVANGELISTA

Clayton & Rutchell Fuchigami Ad Exec. Sharon Zalsos Banaag was the emcee. Brad & Liza Pierce PHOTO: BASILIA EVANGELISTA PHOTO: BASILIA EVANGELISTA PHOTO: BASILIA EVANGELISTA

Assistant Editor Alfredo Evangelista Writer Vince Bagoyo Jr. Writers, Ad-clients, Staff of the Fil-Am Voice PHOTO: BASILIA EVANGELISTA PHOTO: BASILIA EVANGELISTA PHOTO: BASILIA EVANGELISTA

Alfredo, Bessie, Sharon, Dulce and Paul Lucy Peros, Lianne and Tante Vince & Jennifer Bagoyo and Rutchell Fuchigami PHOTO: LAWRENCE PASCUA PHOTO: BASILIA EVANGELISTA PHOTO: BASILIA EVANGELISTA

Vol 2 • No 12 | December 2018 | Fil-Am Voice | 9 Kwento Kuwentuhan Word of the Year It can help you change your life forever.

Liza of “A Maui Blog” ALL PHOTOS COURTESY LIZA PIERCE

hristmas and New Year’s are my favorite times of the year. Left to right: Liza as “Aunty Pineapple,” Liza doing “Live,” and Liza on Facebook C I love talking story about “LIve” on the beach. Christmas, both Christmas in the Philippines and Christmas on Maui. I I learned to listen to that inner voice, TRANSFORM. Transform means to also love talking about New Year’s that still small voice inside of me make a thorough or dramatic change because it’s a new beginning–a which usually is prompting of the in the form, appearance, or character “Listen” was my word in 2017 and “COURAGE” is my word for the current chance to start fresh. Holy Spirit; I learned to listen to not of. I am thinking of transformation year 2018. I got these keychains at Since many of the articles on this only what people say but listen to in terms of my physical body, my Salty Kine Designs to help keep myself December issue will focus on Christ- what they don’t say. 2017 was a spiritual being, my work, my attitude inspired in this yearly word endeavor. mas, I decided to talk about New great year of listening. and more. There are many areas in Year’s, specifically this one tradition In 2018 I chose COURAGE. It is my life that needs transformation. I had been doing for myself. This tra- this year that I am braving the Yeah, my one word for 2019 is def- She loves Jesus; Maui Sunsets Catch- dition is about choosing “one word” wilderness. It is this year that I am initely TRANSFORM. er; Crazy About Rainbow; End to guide me for the coming year. becoming brave in sharing who I am. Do you also choose a word to Alzheimer’s Advocate. Her life is full For the past couple of years, I Having courage as my one word that guide you through the year? If not, and exciting here on the island of have been choosing one word in the enabled me to do things I would maybe the year 2019 is the year for Maui. beginning of the year. That one usually avoid doing. It’s been a great you to start choosing a word has been my guide, goal and year so far and I only have less than word. Let us know what inspiration for that year. a month to finish strong with your chosen word is. It In 2017 I chose LISTEN. I learned courage. would be wonderful to to listen well in a conversation–I lis- Now that 2019 is just around the hear from you. tened to what other people are say- corner I need to decide what my one Liza Pierce of A Maui ing. I learned to listen to myself and word will be for the coming year. Blog is an Interactive Me- get tuned to what I need and want; I am leaning towards the word dia Strategist in Hawai‘i. She started blogging in 2006 and she loves talking story online and spreading aloha around the world. She’s been living on Maui since 1994 Liza is currently the Interactive and considers Maui her home. A wife, Media Strategist with Wailea Realty a mother, a friend…and so much more. Corp.

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10 | Fil-Am Voice | December 2018 | Vol 2 • No 12 Let’s Talk Pinoy!

hew! November came and the year, December. A month where went in just a few blinks. you get to see family that you haven’t W Maybe because I was on Let’s Talk Pinoy! seen in a long time, and find presents vacation enjoying the clear waters of under the Christmas tree. Maybe play Coron, Palawan in the Philippines, and Santa Claus to the kids, and make the temples of Bangkok, Thailand. I Dulce Karen Butay memories that will last a lifetime. am so thankful to be back because Last month, Michael was being there’s no place like home. It’s not on- family and friends, but I am thankful tinues to give me. pressured by his grandmother. Can he ly on Thanksgiving Day that I am for them everyday along with all the With turkey day in the books, we find Angel in time for the party? Let’s grateful with my loving and supportive blessings that He has given and con- look forward to my favorite month of see...

MICHAEL: “Haan, please don’t. I am English Pilipino Ilokano Cebuano Ilonggo Ibanag Kapampangan not a kid. I can do it myself. I will visit her Lola later.” Merry Maligayang Naragsak a Maayong Malipayon Mapaluapaguiya Masayang NANA: “Who is her Lola?” Christmas Pasko! Paskua! Pasko! nga Paskwa! nga Pascua! Pasku! Michael drops his kamay like a child. “Tigil. (Stop.)” Morning Umaga Bigat Buntag Aga Umma Abak Nana hugs and kisses him. Michael says, “umuna-ak pay Nana.” (I’m going Grandma.) Go away! Umalis ka! Puman aw ka! Lakaw! Halin ’to! Manaw! Mako! After breakfast, Michael leaves to have a business lunch with his assis- Stop! Tigil! Sardeng! Paghunong! Untat! Magimmang! Patugut! tant at Koho’s. Michael’s assistant is an intern at the firm but a bright kid freshly grad- No Hindi Haan Awan Indi Dili Indi uated from the University of Hawai‘i Maui College. His name is Tyler. “To- Hair Buhok Buok Buhok Buhok Vu Bwak morrow, you have an appointment with the Kauha‘aha‘a’s pertaining to their pinsan (cousin)’s visa at noon. Heart Puso Puso Tutu Puso Kasingkasing Korason Monday, you have appointments all day up until 4 p.m. On Tuesday... ” Hand Kamay Ima Lima Gamat Duhol Kamut “Tuesday, I have a birthday dinner to attend to at Binhi At Ani. Don’t book anything in the afternoon. In fact Cousin Pinsan Kasinsin Agaw Pakaisa Kapitta Pisan I need to look for someone. Her name is Angel but I don’t have her last name Street Kalye Dalan Dalan Palan Dalang Kalye yet. I need a background check done before Tuesday,” Michael looks at Tyler for affirmation. pers. Her laugh is addicting, and she Rosie looks around. Closes the not that much prettier than me any- “Ok, I can move the Dela Cruz’s ap- does this thing with her nose where door. “She’s not really my sister,” and ways,” tossing her buok (hair) in the pointment to Tuesday morning,” says she crumples it and does this pouty smiles. air and rolling her eyes. Tyler. thing with her mouth that... “Oh no, “I call all my good friends ‘sister.’” “Take me to Walmart first and then “If you can text me her last name watch it! I almost hit that car! I think “I met her a few months ago at we can go to Ross. We can surprise and address today, I can get started I missed my turn. Darn it. Concentrate Kahului Long’s, and we hit it off so her and we can go cruising in your on it.” Mikey” well. And now... twins!” nice car. Woo hoo! Wait for me.” Michael gets in his car and drives “Ah yah, I think I have it. It has to “Oh no, you don’t look anything Rosie rushes inside the house and to the other end of Kahului where he be this balay (house). I parked right like Angel. Haan (No) to a twinsies,” grabs a bag. Heads to the car, raises brought the two women last night for here.” Michael thought to himself. her hand. “I call shotgun!” the lualo (prayer), hoping to see An- Michael knocks on the door. Michael clears his throat. “Really? “Uh, hold on, wait... ” Michael gel. “I’m coming,” a voice shouts in the Ok, do you know where she lives?” stumbles after her. He pulls onto Hina Avenue. “Every- back. Rosie shrugs. “I don’t really know, On Maui, we have the bus. It is thing looks different in the daytime. I His heart is pumping. “OMG, what she won’t tell me. I meet her every used by many locals to get around the hope I can find the house. I think it is if it’s her?” He looks into the glass to day at the bus stop at Ross at 5 p.m. island. When is the last time you rode near Kahului Elementary School.” fix his buhok (hair) and collar. She comes over to my house and we the bus? Go ahead, make plans this Michael drives up and down the The door opens. talk. My family loves her. My dad and weekend and travel to Lahaina, Kïhei, kalye (street) of West Kaua‘i, trying to “Ah. Hahaha. Palito!” I drop her off at Pä‘ia Post Office or go to Kahului like Rosie and Angel. tap into his memory bank. It’s Rosie. when she’s ready to go home. I will Support our public transportation He was so nervous driving them “OMG you are even uglier in the see Angel later today. If you want to service on Maui! Tell us your favorite since Angel sat up front next to him. buntag (morning). Come back later see her,” Rosie winks, “you can come.” bus stop story at He wasn’t really paying attention to when it's dark.” She closes the door. Michael gasps and swallows. www.facebook.com/letstalkpinoy. the kalye (street) names. He can still Michael stutters not knowing what Rosie tilts her head and raises her This month’s homework is to say picture her smiling, sitting with her to say. eyebrow. “Merry Christmas” everyday to some- legs crossed. Her brown hair perfectly Rosie opens the door laughing “I’m “Angel, Angel, Angel.” Rosie says one new. Look in the table how to say parted to the side. She was wearing a kidding. Joke lang. What are you do- and stares. it in different Filipino languages. simple outfit. A white top with a light ing? Are you lost? Indi (No).... I don’t Michael’s eyes widen. Teach them and have them say it back blue blouse and denim blue jeans. want to buy any cookies or vacuums!” “OMG, Palito. I only say her name to you. ‘Tis the season of giving, and Nothing special but she wore it really “I was wondering if your sister An- and you become like a ghost. Stop you can give the gift of language! nicely. “I need to see her.” he whis- gel is here.” that. It’s really weird. Get a grip, she’s see TALK p.14

Vol 2 • No 12 | December 2018 | Fil-Am Voice | 11 Ating Kabuhayan Ka-Ching! Raising Ad Savvy Kids Holidays & Holy Days Elsa Agdinaoay-Segal Are the meanings and values that these days provide us with embodied in our lives?

The Rev. John A.H. Tomoso † hen you hear the word the great sacrifice of soldiers who died holiday, what comes to in battle that we might enjoy the free- mind? If you’re like most doms, that more than often than not, people, shopping, par- we take for granted. Wties, church services, football and Traditions represent a critical part other sports, oh, and then there is of any culture. They help form the shopping, parades, a day off, sleeping structure and foundation of our fami- longer and staying in bed. The truth is lies and our society. They remind us in my opinion, that many holidays are that we are part of a history that de- becoming so commercialized that the fines our past, shapes who we are original meaning for the holiday, many today and who we are likely to be- of which were established to honor come. Once we ignore the meaning of important people and cherished tradi- our traditions, we’re in danger of dam- The headline of this vaping ad stresses the importance of your “FREEDOM,” telling tions are in danger of becoming trivi- aging or even destroying the very you that you are “smart,” and mentions nothing of nicotine content. How do we alized or unimportant, with their foundation of our identity as a people, or our children respond to the ever-increasing bombardment of sensationalism original meaning and value hidden be- as a community, as a society. Thus, attached to the ads we see in print, on TV, online, or in printed publications? hind less socially redeeming inten- holidays, are important to fostering tions, with traditions becoming and nurturing our traditions. rom Black Friday until the end sarily use the products. Promotions, unimportant and lost to our younger Unfortunately, today’s seeming in- of December, the United raffles and giveaways are clever ways generations. difference towards F States is plunged into a shop- to get personal information from Traditions per- “Perhaps we have holidays and Holy ping frenzy that seems to get wilder people (like names, addresses and form an important Days, and the tra- and crazier every year. Christmas telephone numbers) so that more ad- role in our commu- a generation, ditions they repre- Eve used to mark the end of the vertising can be directed at them. In- nity. Tradition con- sent and celebrate “holiday shopping season,” but these ternet sites store personal informa- tributes a sense of now, who don’t has negative con- days it seems there's a respectful tion about users whenever they “like” comfort and be- sequences for all pause for 24 hours and then the something on a social media site or longing. It brings know the holidays of us. Do we see, frenzy continues with after-Christmas click on a link. That information is families together right here on Maui, blowout sales. Some Americans may often used to try to sell them things and enables peo- and have totally how many people shop themselves into debt, even re- later on. ple to reconnect don’t treat or cele- sorting to violence, in order to stock- The Corporation for Public Broad- with friends. They forgotten the brate holidays like pile toys, electronics, clothing, jewel- casting has an interesting site for allow culture and draditions they once did. Per- ry, toiletries, and other “stuff” they kids called “Don't Buy It: http://pb- cultural practices haps we have a can ill afford and often don't even skids.org/dontbuyit/advertis- and customs to be surrounding whole generation, know they want until advertisers per- ingtricks/. Through a series of inter- passed on to now, who don’t suade them that they do. active games, kids can learn advertis- younger genera- them.” know the holidays In order to get people into the ing tricks, become an “ad detective” tions. Tradition en- and have totally malls and online shops, advertisers and even create their own ads. The ables us to – REV. JOHN A.H. TOMOSO forgotten the tra- blare their messages over television, process of creating an ad helps them showcase many ditions surround- radio and Internet. They plaster think like an advertiser and be more good things that add emotions, ing them. Kababayan, are we losing nearly every inch of real estate–in- able to spot advertising tricks in the beauty, joy, celebration, equity and a the knowledge of and respect for our cluding cyberspace–with their mes- future. sense of fulfillment to our relation- culture and cultural traditions as we sages. Ads have infiltrated our places List all the ways you can think of ships and society. Tradition can culti- make our holidays less important, less of business and our schools, our food that advertisers try to attract you. vate a sense of “unity in diversity” and meaningful? Think of it, family meals and clothes, our emails, movies and Some examples: an appreciation for the differences around the table have been reduced video games. For those of us with • bright colors that a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic to eating fast and around the TV. children, this trend is particularly • flashing banners community can bring to the fore. Sporting events are scheduled on troublesome. Do we really want our • With holidays becoming commer- Sundays; assuming that Sunday is children exposed to this much mar- music and sound effects cialized, even trivialized, we can be still a day, a “holy day,” a church day keting hype? • pictures of happy people using afraid of offending people that we can and on holidays like Mothers’ Day and This month, go ahead and shop if the product ban any symbol with the slightest reli- Fathers’ Day. Aren’t our children, in a you must: for Christmas, Hanukkah, • celebrities using the product gious connection from our public real sense, trading “game day” for Kwanzaa, Festivus, birthdays, or just • product made to look bigger spaces. In our consumer-driven, quality family time. Reading before because you want to. Be an educated or better profit-motivated economy, employers bedtime has given way to “vegging” in consumer, however, and teach your • often demand that their retail em- front of the TV, so that parents have children to watch out for manipula- repetition (same ads shown ployees literally abandon their family their downtime. I believe holidays help tion by marketers. over and over) dinners to return to the store in time build and nurture community and are Explain to your children that com- • shortages (real or planned, for that special sales promotions, conduits of cultural learning and add mercials and ads are paid for by to cause a sense of urgency) sometimes called “Midnight Madness, value and meaning to the community companies to make people want to Make a game of trying to spot ad- Sales Extravaganzas, Shop Till You and cultures we share. buy their products. Naturally the ads vertising messages as you go through Drop” events. Of course, we con- So that we can combat indifference, will try to make the products look as your day. Television commercials, sumers, avowed shoppers that we are, let’s look at how holidays and Holy appealing as possible. But just be- ads in magazines, and billboards on who are looking for bargains, perhaps Days contribute to the building of cause an ad tells them that a product highways are easy to identify. But demand such sales events. Is this the community, culture and tradition: is the best thing ever made, or is what about logos on clothes? Brand- way to spend a holiday? • Tradition contributes a sense of something they have to have, doesn't name products in movies and on tel- Do you remember the true meaning comfort and belonging. It brings mean it's true. Although ads can give evision shows? Logos and company and value of holidays? For instance, families together and enables peo- people useful information, they are names on athletes' uniforms, race Memorial Day has morphed from re- ple to be in relationships and live in just a starting point. We should do cars, and stadium walls? Those are membering our fallen soldiers to the neighborhoods and communities. our own research and be aware of ads, too. unofficial beginning of summer. Labor • Holidays reinforce values such as the many ways in which ads try to As a parent, you can try to limit Day’s role in recognizing the achieve- freedom, faith, integrity, a good ed- manipulate us before believing every- your children's exposure to advertis- ments of organized labor now just ucation, personal responsibility, a thing they claim. ing. Limit their TV watching and en- marks the end of summer and a return strong work ethic, and the value of Explain that the people endorsing courage commercial-free stations to school. Veterans Day is honored as being selfless, including learning products in ads–whether they are when they do watch. Discourage lo- a day off from work but, more and celebrities or seem like ordinary peo- more, not the day to commemorate see HOLIDAYS p.15 ple–are paid actors and don't neces- see KA-CHING p.15

12 | Fil-Am Voice | December 2018 | Vol 2 • No 12 where exactly is the eco in all of Season… Start Strong… this? Because of the popularity of this diet, it has been highly criti- from p. 4 from p. 3 cized for lacking eco-friendliness However, she believes sense trainer. I didn’t have time to on how meat is handled. So now, that Hawai‘i provides the whine or complain since I was too there is a shift in focus towards perfect weather during tired to talk. Labuanan graduated with meat friendly handling which is re- the holidays. “I would a degree in physical fitness. This quired to help prevent a negative rather spend Christmas in wasn’t only a certificate on the wall impact on the planet long term. Hawai‘i because with the for him, this was his life’s passion. Oh my, so basically, Eco-Ketogenic one season that Hawai‘i Labuanan is sought after by NFL play- is an eco-conscious adapted con- has, there is a very, very ers when they vacation on Maui and cept where the same high-fat, high small chance of being Kaila and Sebastian Montero-Quemado not to mention well-known local protein principles that work for stuck in a blizzard and celebrities who are on a first name ba- those on Keto, just without animal having to spend Christmas alone be- midnight mass at her church. “I also sis with him. Seeing and hearing how product. Much too much for me. cause the roads are blocked with put up decorations around my house hard he is on them as well, as profes- Keto claims to boost one’s energy snow,” she said. and get gifts for close friends and sional as they are already, made me level while crushing cravings and Gabrielle celebrates Christmas be- family,” she added. On Christmas, respect the trainer that Labuanan is. calming the inflammation. cause it’s a part of her religion and her family usually goes to her Uncle’s Absolutely no exceptions for him. His #2 Rowing is the new Spin! I admit, I family tradition. They celebrate house to have dinner. One of her gym, his rules, my result. Simple. still have a gym membership from Christmas by attending mass at family traditions is to open their gifts After two years, I moved to training Planet Fitness from the summer church and having a family gather- on Christmas morning but on Christ- with Coach Nante Manangan, a box- and I’ve been in that gym three ing. One family tradition they have is mas Eve, they’re allowed to open one ing and life coach from Southside times since then. It’s December and playing the game White Elephant at of their gifts. Maui. Coach Nante, as most will refer meanwhile, my automatic deduc- parties. One of Gabrielle's fondest Jeannine describes Christmas as to him, is the opposite of the former. tion is still happening. A perfect Christmas memories is helping her joyous, loving, and filled with laugh- Coach Nante’s goal is to push you to time to insert LOL in my state- Mom put the lights up on their ter. Joyous because Christmas brings ment. Just being real. Christmas tree. “As a child, it was a happiness; loving because it’s about Move aside spin fanatics, tiring task because of how large the giving and spending time with fami- rowing is the hottest trend these tree seemed to me. However, when ly. Lastly, laughter because she’s al- days. The glammed up boutique the final string of lights was wrapped ways laughing or smiling during gyms specializing in niche areas around the top of the tree and we Christmas time. Christmas is a time of fitness. Turning the horrid plugged it in, like the tree, my eyes to give back to people or the commu- looking 1980s gym to a sexy, lit up and I felt happiness like no oth- nity. “It also means getting together trendy place to be seen. Another er,” she added. Her grandmother re- and enjoying each other’s company; trend prior to rowing is my per- cently moved to the Philippines and being thankful,” she added. When it sonal favorite, Boxing Boutique. she misses her especially now that comes to Hawaiian weather, My kind of boxing training of Christmas is approaching. If she Jeaninne would rather spend Christ- course is less the sexy, glammed could ask Santa for one gift, it would mas in the snow. A change of weath- up boutique though. be plane tickets to the Philippines for er would be nice for her. She also 2019 is the year that will see Gabi and her family. wants the experience of wearing lay- a rise of dedicated, glammed up Siblings Kaila and Sebastian Mon- ers cause that’s not really necessary rowing studios. I should check tero-Quemado celebrate Christmas here in Hawai‘i. “I’ve never been in to see which of our Maui gyms because that's just how it was grow- snow before and it’d be really excit- will be featuring more of these ing up. They always celebrate with ing to spend Christmas in the snow,” bad boys. A great way to get a their Dad’s side of the family and she added. head start for 2019, I will be they typically celebrate on Christmas “Filled with love.” Nicole Rabanal touring Maui to see our workout Eve since that's Kaila’s birthday. Se- used these words to describe her facilities. bastian said he “enjoys opening pres- Christmas. To her, the meaning of #3 in Wellness Trend is ents and being with family. I also en- the Rise of the mesonutrient! In joy that you can feel the Christmas Coach Nante Manangan of Southside Maui, a 2018, we learned to separate spirit all year long.” Kalia added boxing and life coach became my trainer. our macronutrients (protein, “There is never a wrong time to be in PHOTO COURTESY SHARON ZALSOS BANAAG fats, and carbs) from micronu- the Christmas spirit even when the trients (which is vitamins and temperature outside is hot.” minerals). Now, ready your- Christmas is the time of giving your limits but also to encourage you selves to start obsessing over our and receiving. It also means being to like the sport and training that you mesonutrient because we want to with family during the happiest time are engaging in. He welcomes every- know more about the food we take of the year. However, the siblings one willing to work out and doesn’t in our bodies to include the actual, would rather spend Christmas in the charge a cent. He will take donations active compounds inside those in- snow because they’ve experienced for his boxing club which to this day gredients. For instance, curcumin Christmas in Hawai‘i for the last six- still boggles my mind how this amaz- is the active ingredient in turmeric. teen years and really want to experi- ing individual can stay in business This delivers anti-inflammatory ence and do any type of winter activ- since the 1990’s. Athletes such as Mike and anti-aging benefits that the su- ities in the snow like what people in Tyson and Leila Ali trained in his small per-spice is famous for. This ex- the Mainland would do. Nicole Rabanal little boxing ring which is–get this– plains why citizens from India Jeannine Miranda celebrates inside his garage! Both athletes sought have been using Turmeric for al- Christmas to laud the birth of Jesus. Christmas is simply to give back to this character of a person with his sig- most everything in their food and It’s also a time to give back to people other people and to show love. How- nature Rod Stewart silver hair style. even to paint their skin! Most which she thinks is very nice. She cel- ever, as much as she likes giving peo- They trained under his roof and won Turmeric have 400 mg of curcum- ebrates Christmas by going to the ple presents, she prefers receiving be- their belts thereafter. Ali retired unde- in. Now, to extract 400 grams of cause it warms her heart knowing feated. curcumin from a turmeric root, that people would be so thoughtful So, what exactly do we have to you would need to eat around to give her a present. Another reason look forward to in 2019 in terms of 220 lbs. of it. Yikes! That’s more why she prefers receiving is because Wellness Trends? than my body weight. Fytostar is she loves hearing the story on why #1 on the list is Eco-Ketogenic. Oh another example. This one is found people gave that gift. “You’ll never boy. As if Keto wasn’t enough, now in green tea which offers high see someone sad about their gift be- they added Eco. This must be the strength of extract containing cause it’s the thought that counts and P.R. for marketing diet trends and about 300 mg per capsule. In not the materialistic thing that they how to make more earth friendly. Greek, Macro means big, and mi- actually get,” she said. This is what 2019 brings us the Ketogenic diet cro means small so meso-means Nicole enjoys about Christmas, seeing as it already soared in 2018. It has literally inside. Other macronutri- everyone together with smiles on been labeled as Keto Reset Diet, ents include anthocyanin in red their faces. This is the time when which basically means, if you tried and purple foods such as cherries people forget about their problems. this in 2018, you can do it again in and lycopene in tomatoes–both She celebrates Christmas because 2019. It is completely anti-carbs, rich in antioxidants. A very trendy she’s Catholic and December 25th is grains, sugar. Instead, it favors lots mesonutrient is Saffronal which Jeannine Miranda see SEASON p.15 of veggies, animal fat and meat. So see START STRONG p.16 Vol 2 • No 12 | December 2018 | Fil-Am Voice | 13 What’s Happening On Maui Calendar Fil-Am Voice 2018–2019 Please submit your community event by the seventh day of each month via email to [email protected]

December 21 MISA DE GALLO MASS at cil President Marilyn Oura ter. Nine Nights Novena prayer will Christ the King Catholic Church. at 280-2057. begin on January 11, 2019 at 7 p.m. 10 MAUI FILIPINO CHAMBER OF 5 a.m. Contact Lucy Peros at 877-7045 at Christ the King Church. Contact COMMERCE HOLIDAY PARTY “White or 269-1602 for more information. January President Tessie Soto at 205-4574 or Christmas” Tante’s Fishmarket Restau- via email to [email protected]. rant & Bar in Mä‘alaea. No-Host 22 MISA DE GALLO MASS at 20 56TH ANNUAL FEAST DAY Cocktails 5:30—6:30 p.m. $50 early Christ the King Catholic Church. CELEBRATION held by the Santo Niño bird (Pay by November 21). $65 at 5 a.m. Contact Lucy Peros at 877-7045 Club of Maui. Mass will be celebrated the door. Contact Kauanoe Batangan or 269-1602 for more information. at Christ the King Church at 3 p.m. at [email protected] followed by Dinner/Entertainment at 23 MISA DE GALLO MASS at or 298-1379. 5:30 p.m. at Wailuku Community Cen- Christ the King Catholic Church. 16 MISA DE GALLO MASS at 6 a.m. Contact Lucy Peros at 877-7045 Christ the King Catholic Church. or 269-1602 for more information. 6 a.m. Contact Lucy Peros at 877-7045 balo of Häli‘imaile, worked for Maui 24 MISA DE GALLO MASS at or 269-1602 for more information. Offspring… Land and Pine Company. Her dad was Christ the King Catholic Church. a 1946 Sakada. Lucy is currently a Re- from p. 8 17 MISA DE GALLO MASS at 5 a.m. Contact Lucy Peros at 877-7045 altor Associate at Christ the King Catholic Church. or 269-1602 for more information. Although this Christmas will be her Peros Realty, the 5 a.m. Contact Lucy Peros at 877-7045 25 CHRISTMAS DAY (Federal first without her Mom Julia, Shirley’s business her late or 269-1602 for more information. and State Holiday). strong foundation in God assures her husband Sylvester 18 MISA DE GALLO MASS at that her parents are in a better place. Peros, Jr. started 30 30 ANNUAL RIZAL DAY Christ the King Catholic Church. Shirley is thankful for their lives and years ago, where CELEBRATION and Installation of 5 a.m. Contact Lucy Peros at 877-7045 for God’s many blessings and wishes her daughter Officers and Directors of Maui Filipino or 269-1602 for more information. everyone a very Merry Christmas. Lianne Peros-Busch Community Council. Maui Beach Lucy Peros is a retired school teacher, is now the Broker. 19 MISA DE GALLO MASS at Hotel. 5:30 p.m. having taught for 32 years, 11 years at Lucy devotes a significant amount of Christ the King Catholic Church. $45. Join the 5 a.m. Contact Lucy Peros at 877-7045 Filipino attire con- St. Anthony Grade School and 21 years time to activities at Christ The King or 269-1602 for more information. test (Barong Taga- at Waihe‘e Elementary School. Both of Catholic Church as well as babysitting log for males and her parents, Elpidio and Alejandra Ca- her grandchildren. 20 MISA DE GALLO MASS at Maria Clara for fe- Christ the King Catholic Church. males). Contact 5 a.m. Contact Lucy Peros at 877-7045 Rizal Maui Filipino school students. The title of the column or 269-1602 for more information. 1879 Community Coun- Rizal… emphasizes that education is more than just googling a topic. Google® is from p. 5 a registered trademark. vant today as he displaced acts of This month's guest columnist is Rome- compassion, bravery and belief in lyn Joy Tabangcura, a junior at peace over violence to Maui High School taking gain freedom for his part in Maui High's beloved country. Stu- ACOM and Health Serv- dents are still inspired ices pathway. She is a by his accomplishments member of Health Occu- and strive for a better pation Student of Amer- education to work hard ica (HOSA) for 3 years to achieve their dreams and has competed in and aspirations in life. Human Growth and De- It is because of José velopment and placed Rizal’s determination top 3 at states. She is al- and philosophy that in- so a part of INTERACT, spires others to work a service club that works hard in achieving their around the community. dreams and aspirations. She aspires to become an anesthesiolo- Google® Is Not Everything is a gist one day. She is a daughter of monthly column authored by high Romeo and Roselyn Tabangcura.

Let’s Talk Pinoy!

ficer at the Talk… County of Maui, Depart- from p. 11 ment of Fi- Anyways that's all I have. Keep an nance. Butay eye out for my article every issue. I’m is a licensed Dulce, helping you to master your Fil- Resident Pro- ipino Languages. Like always, let’s ducer of Life Concentrating in laugh, let’s listen, and Let’s Talk Insurance Estate Planning ✦ Business Formation and Counseling Pinoy! Hanggang sa muli! (Until next with World Fi- Non-Profit Corporations ✦ Civil Litigation time!) Ingat! (Take care!). nancial Group and an Independent Dulce Karen Butay was graduated Consultant of Saladmaster. She recently 24 Central Avenue ✦ Wailuku, Maui, Hawaii 96793 from Maui High School and earned her became part of the Travel Club of Sal- Telephone 808.242.8100 ✦ Cellular 808.294.5510 Associate in Arts in Liberal Arts from admaster and won an all-expenses paid [email protected] Maui Community College and her Bach- trip to Cancun, Mexico with the love of elors of Science in Business Administra- her life. Butay recently returned from a Appointments on Maui or O‘ahu tion, specializing in Accounting, from trip to Texas as one of the delegates the University of Hawai‘i - West O‘ahu. from Island Healthy Solutions, a dealer She is currently the Administrative Of- of Saladmaster here on Maui. 14 | Fil-Am Voice | December 2018 | Vol 2 • No 12 tunate to make their holidays a little Season… more joyful,” she said. She prefers Ating Kabuhayan giving rather than receiving because from p. 13 the look on people’s faces when they when Jesus was born. When she receive something is priceless. Their lived in the Philippines, she went faces light up and that warms her caroling with her friends from house heart. Ask yourself; to house starting on December 16 up Christine celebrates Christmas be- are you engaging to Christmas Day. Nicole would go to cause she grew up learning that others and her Ninongs’ and Ninangs’ houses and Christmas is Jesus’ birthday and that actively partici- they would give her this red Chinese it’s the season of giving. On Christ- pating with envelope with money inside. A fami- mas Eve, her whole family gets to- family, friends, co-workers and ly tradition she always does annually gether at one of her relatives’ home church-family is called Noche Buena. This is the and they all stay up until midnight to during the time when their whole family gets say “Merry Christmas” to each other. Holidays and together on Christmas Eve and eat. If A few family traditions include hav- Holy Days? she could ask Santa for one gift that ing a Christmas dinner and playing would be a house. “I want our family White Elephant. The one thing she to have our privacy and it’s just absolutely loves about Christmas is something that would make not only the joy it brings. “Whenever Christ- me but also my parents happy,” she mas comes around, I notice that a lot added. of people are more joyful and hap- Christine Alonzo says that Christ- py,” she added. Her favorite Christ- Then, ask mas is the “Season of giving.” If mas memory is arriving in Australia yourself; are you Christine Alonzo could ask Santa for on Christmas day and seeing her rel- the type to use atives for the first time in a long Holidays and time. Christine's family traveled to Holy Days to Australia last year on Christmas Eve. just chill, relax, “We were so happy to be with them do nothing and that was something I would nev- and be lazy like er forget,” she said. “Juan Tamad”? Kristian Magaoay describes Christ- mas as being “Merry and Bright.” He enjoys Christmas because of the cheery holiday spirit–everyone get- events, important people, and impor- ting together and having the time of Holidays… tant cultural understanding. their lives. “I celebrate Christmas be- So, holidays and Holy Days are im- cause it’s that time of year where you from p. 12 portant. They are not just excuses for get together and bond, giving each about what took place in the past a day off or to “veg out.” When a holi- other gifts and making everyone hap- (history) to give rise to the present day comes along, know why we have it py,” he said. The way his family cel- day. on the calendar. When a Holy Day ebrates Christmas is by having a little family get-together. They give each • Tradition, and the holidays that shows up on the calendar, live it as if other presents and just have a little commemorate traditions, provides your spiritual life is more important Christine Alonzo party with food, drinks, games, a forum to showcase role models than anything you can do physically. I one gift, she would ask for money. movies, etc. “Our family tradition is and celebrate the things that really think holidays and Holy Days give us Even though that may seem greedy usually just a Christmas party with matter in life. the opportunity to not allow apathy and ignorance overshadow our tradi- to most people, she would not be tons of people coming over and • Holidays, and the traditions they tions, our values and our meaningful greedy with the money at all. Chris- food,” he added. commemorate and celebrate, offer pursuit of life. I know that holidays tine believes in the saying “Money Kristian would rather spend a chance to say “thank you” for the and Holy Days give me great satisfac- doesn't buy happiness” but she also Christmas in Hawai‘i because most of contribution that someone has tion and a sense of accomplishment believes that you can use the money his family is here. “It would be nice made. and gratitude. So, the next time you to create happiness. “If I received the to experience it in the snow but it’s • In this country, holidays and tradi- celebrate a holiday, or a Holy Day, re- money, I would give it to the less for- see SEASON next page tions enable us to showcase the member that your responsibility, even principles of our Founding Fathers, your obligation, is to mark the true celebrate diversity, and the com- meaning of the day. munities we live in; helping to unite Ka-Ching! us as a country, multi-culturally. Rev. John A. Hau’oli Tomoso † is a Social Worker and Episcopal Priest. He is a © 2016 MASSACHUSETTS MUTUAL LIFE • Holidays offer us excellent contexts I NSURANCE COMPANY (MASSM UTUAL), Priest Associate at Good Shepherd Epis- Ka-Ching… for meaningful pause and reflec- S PRINGFIELD, MA 01111-0001. copal Church in Wailuku and an on-call tion, even continuing to be the Holy from p. 12 A LL RIGHTS RESERVED. WWW. MASSMU- Chaplain at TUAL. COM. Days that help us to celebrate the Maui Memo- go-laden clothing, which makes your levels and dimensions of our spiri- rial Medical kids walking advertisements. Speak Provided by Elsa Agdinaoay-Se- tual lives, giving rise to faith that Center. To- out at your local schools about the gal, registered representative of Mass- can be expressed daily. moso was troubling trend of ads on buses, com- Mutual Pacific, Holidays and Holy Days give mean- graduated mercials on classroom current-events courtesy of ing and value to our lives. They give from St. An- television stations, franchise food Massachusetts our living in and sense of community thony Jr./Sr. chains in cafeterias, ad-laden teach- Mutual Life In- meaning and value, ways we relate to High School, ing modules provided by manufac- surance Com- one another. I don’t think we want to the College of turers, ads in bathroom stalls, and so pany (Mass- take each other for granted because St. Thomas in on. Try to become an ad-savvy fam- Mutual). Lic. this would reduce how we relate to St. Paul, Min- ily! # 357268. Ag- one another to inappropriate behav- nesota (Bach- dinaoay-Segal iors, selfish attitudes and being in Holiday Spending was graduated from Hawai‘i Pacific elor of Arts in Political Science and Without Breaking the Bank pursuit of trivial things; things not es- Sociology) and Myron B. Thompson University where she received a Bach- While you are working to help sential to how we related to one an- School of Social Work at the University of elor’s of Science in Business Adminis- minimize the marketing hype and other, forgetting that we share a Hawai’i at Mänoa (Masters of Social tration with an emphasis on Human outrageous requests for holiday quality of life. Yes, holidays and Holy Work). In 2008, he retired from the civil Resource Management. In 2009, she spending from your children, consid- Days help nurture a quality of life service as the Maui County Executive on earned the Chartered Retirement er taking a look at your household’s SM among us all. But we have to know Aging. Tomoso is currently the Executive Plans Specialist designation finances — what can you afford? How what they are and why we have them. Director of the non-profit Tri-Isle Re- (CRPS®). Agdinaoay-Segal has nine can you make the most of your fi- Kababayan, let’s not take them for source Conservation and Development years of experience in the financial nancial situation? To learn more or granted. If we do, the result will be Council, Inc. His wife Susan is a 7th grade services industry. She is the mother of access helpful materials, speak with that our beliefs, values and true Language Arts Teacher at Maui Waena two children, Joshua and Lily, and a local financial professional or visit meanings of life will get diluted and, Intermediate School. married to Brandon Segal, a deputy over time, we will forget important https://www.massmutual.com/for/fa prosecuting attorney with the County mily-finance. of Maui. Vol 2 • No 12 | December 2018 | Fil-Am Voice | 15 your current health and me is meant to be temporary. It Start Strong… go from there. With a is not mean to be a long term fix plethora of fad diets on health. The reality is most di- from p. 13 here and there, be very ets are started because we have comes from the spice saffron. This careful about starting to lose an inch or so before a is highly studied for its antidepres- on the new trend. special event. I know, I was just sant, appetite suppressing and li- Breen highly suggests in my wedding gown a couple of bido boosting benefits. When you consulting your person- months back. see saffron rice on the menu, try it! al physician prior to Sharon Zalsos Banaag is a To buy good quality saffron can starting a new diet reg- past president of the Maui Fil- cost anywhere from $12.99 for 1.5 iment. I am not a fan of ipino Chamber of Commerce grams to over $299.95 per 75 any diets. The root (three terms) and has her own grams. word die is enough to marketing business: Kalona Inter- We can present success stories after deter me from starting national LLC. She’s also an ACN stories but it all boils down to you. anything that end with Independent Business Owner. A What is your state of health as we the word diet. Atkins former Miss Maui Filipina, conclude 2018? Are you at your opti- Diet, Keto Diet, South Sharon played the lead in MAPA’s mum level? Or would you like to ring Beach Diet, Vegetarian presentation of Miss Saigon. A in 2019 with a list of resolutions to do. Diet, Zone Diet. graduate of Maui High School, My suggestion is to start now and ring Instead, I recom- Sharon is employed with the in 2019 already ahead of the game. mend a change in our Time is a precious commodity that cannot be replaced when it County of Maui and a proud Vet- It’s simple to start–just make a deci- lifestyle and eating comes to realizing your health goals. eran of the United States Air sion. Know what you want changed in habits. A diet plan to PHOTO COURTESY SHARON ZALSOS BANAAG Force.

added. Season… As much as Shmily Versola loves Christmas here in Hawai‘i, she would from p. 15 want to experience the cold weather. more about the bonding of one anoth- “I want to see what a white Christmas er,” he said. He prefers giving rather looks like and also build a snowman,” than receiving because seeing friends she said. “Christmas is the most won- and family smile when they receive derful time of the year. It is the most gifts is probably the best thing you awaited day as the year finishes.” could ever see. Giving friends and What she loves about Christmas is see- family gifts and seeing them smile and ing her family come together as one. be really happy when they open them No fighting. No yelling. No worries. warms his heart. “In all honesty, I “It’s just us. We gather as a celebration wouldn’t even ask Santa for one gift of the love we have for one another,” because just the fact that I’m able to she added. Shmily celebrates Christ- spend time with my family and mak- mas as part of her religion. “That is ing most memorable moments with when our savior Jesus Christ was Kristian Magaoay them already makes me happy,” he brought into this world,” she said. One of her family traditions is to have a Shmily Versola feast on Christmas with all of their favorite dishes, cooked and served with We’re love. They play games and talk to The holiday season is the reward catch up with each other’s lives. “A teens have been looking forward to af- family tradition we have is always ter completing a semester in school. serving spaghetti on Christmas Eve. They are able to give gifts to their We can never forget about spaghetti,” friends and families as a symbol of NOW OPEN! she said. Shmily’s all-time favorite their love and appreciation for their Christmas memory was when she was support. During the holiday season five years old. It was her first boodle families gather together to enjoy each fight. Her family decided to spend other’s company. Christmas is the per- Christmas with her maternal grand- fect celebration filled with presents, parents. She remembers having the lights, trees, food, family, and friends. food arranged nicely but after the The birth of Jesus Christ is what’s usu- prayer was finished, everyone was dig- ally associated with Christmas or the ging in. Her Dad tried his very best to holidays but generations have been re- grab as much shrimp as he could be- defining Christmas in their own way. Lunch & Dinner cause they were Shmily’s favorite. As we celebrate the holidays with our To Shmily, giving is better than re- families, young siblings, cousins, or ceiving because it makes her feel good children, they’ll witness the magic of about herself. It’s the thought that she giving and love–they are the ones gets to make someone smile even for who will keep the Christmas Spirit a short amount of time that brings her alive in the future. The celebration of joy. If she could ask Santa for a gift, giving, and the celebration of family it would be the gift of having the and friends are not new but they are chance to change the world. She new in that today they are what de- chose this gift be- fines Christmas. cause many people Ghenesis Jhay are fighting their Balaan, is a Junior toughest battles, at Maui High School crying out for help attending its Culinary around the world and Health CTE Path- but nothing ever way. He is a two-year happens. No member of Health changes are being Occupations Students made. No one is of America (HOSA) taking the time to and served as its 300 Mä‘alaea Rd. · Wailuku seek for improve- Council Treasurer in ments. “Time may 2017—2018. Ghenesis ~ By Maui Ocean Center ~ not be our friend hopes to become a (808) 640-0193 at all times but it respiratory therapist should not stop us in the future. He is tantesfishmarket.com from moving with purpose,” she the eldest son of Benjamin V. Balles- added. teros Jr. and Jerameelyn B. Ballesteros.

16 | Fil-Am Voice | December 2018 | Vol 2 • No 12