Annual Simbang Gabi at St. Thomas Aquinas Church on Dec, 9

by Susan Palmes-Dennis

Charlotte, North Carolina—It's all systems go for the annual Simbang Gabi (midnight Mass) on December 9, Friday at the St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church at 1400 Suther Road, 28213 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Lota Mascarenas, an active member of the Rosary group of the St. Thomas Aquinas Church, said they are spearheading the event, an annual staple for Fil-American Catholics in the Charlotte, North Carolina area.

It is in keeping with the venerable traditional Christmas celebration in the Philippines. The Simbang Gabi is held at 4 am from Dec. 16 until Dec. 24 and the Simbang Gabi to be held at the St. Thomas Aquinas Church will be held for one hour. 

A common belief shared by Filipino Cathlics is that a devotee who completed all nine days of the Simbang Gabi will be granted his or her request.

Mascarenas said this month marks the eight  year that Fil-American Catholics of St. Thomas Aquinas Church will attend the midnight Mass. Tom Savoy will still be the musical director and there will be new songs during the mass, Mascarenes said.   

She also unveiled the program which is as follows:

“Gathering: Bayan Umawit Processional song:

Halina Hesus Liturgy of the Word 1st reading

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 89 Forever I will sing

2nd reading:

Gospel Acclamation: Alleluia

Gospel reading Homily

Liturgy of the Eucharist - Offertory Unang Alay
Santo.

Memorial acclamation: Si Kristo ay Gunitain

Amen

Kordero ng Diyos

Communion: Tinapay ng Buhay Salamat sa iyo
Recessional song: Pasko Na!

Reception will follow after the Mass at Aquinas Hall in which traditional Christmas Filipino food will be served. Everyone are welcome to bring Filipino desserts to share to the community. 

FACC Christmas party on Dec. 3

by Susan Palmes-Dennis

Charlotte, North Carolina-- The Filipino-American community in the Carolinas, all roads lead to the Crown Elementary School at 3335 Sam Newell Road Matthews, North Carolina for the annual Christmas party of the Fil-American Community of the Carolinas (FACC) on December 3, Saturday.

The gathering follows the Gala Night held last month and marks the last event to be celebrated by the incumbent FACC officers. The party will also feature the election of the FACC's Board of Directors. 

FACC secretary Aurea Barbee  posted the announcement on the FACC's Facebook page. She said this year's party is focused on the Nativity and the Board of Directors 2016 farewell.  

The annual Christmas party is the last official act of the incumbent officers of the FACC, the largest Fil-American organization in the Carolinas.

The incumbent FACC officials are led by its president Robert John Escobal, Jessica Esguerra (1st VP), Cecilia Durano Perry (2nd VP), Aurea Barbee (Secretary), Liezel Bell (Treasurer), Luz Blackwell (Auditor) and Ram B. Cabanero (Public Relations Officer).  

The current board of directors served for two terms and credited this year's successful activities to the hard working and “good looking” members and non-members, Escobal quipped. 

Barbee said there are 235 registered members of FACC this year. Non- members are welcome to attend the party if only to see the energy and spirit of Fil-Americans in celebrating a holiday far from their families. 

FACC would also be celebrating its 30th year on 2017. The menu is potluck and  everyone is encouraged to bring their favorite holiday dish in accordance with the last names they carry. For last names A-D- adobo (chicken/pork/beef stew): E-H pansit/palabok (noodles) M-P: fried chicken wings, Q-T: desserts/soda and U-Z: vegetable dishes.

FACC's evening of Filipiniana

by Susan Palmes-Dennis

Charlotte, North Carolina--The best of Philippine culture, values, arts and music were on full display anew at the 29th Gala Night of the Filipino American Community of the Carolinas (FACC) held here last Nov. 12.

The event was attended by 414 guests and visitors on a Saturday evening, when the super moon was forming in the sky and the night cool with the mid-autumn breeze.

Most of the past FACC Presidents and officers were present to join their members in the group considered as the biggest Fil-American organization in North Carolina. 

The invocation was led by Chris Villiapando while the Philippine National Anthem was sung by Ashley Perez and “Duchess” Janne Louise F. Ave. Abbie Armstead performed the American National Anthem.

The dances performed during the event were the Carinosa, Habanera de Jovencita and Pandanggo sa Ilaw.  The Carinosa which means the “loving or affectionate one” is a Philippine dance of Spanish origin from the Maria Clara Suite of Philippine folk dances. 

Three couples composed of Mike and Janet Sta.Ana, Gleen and Chinqui Sta.Ana and Jaypee Ave and Klaire Connolly danced the Carinosa after a month and a half's worth of practice.

The women wore the Maria Clara outfit while their male partners donned the barong tagalog. The Habanera de Jovencita is named after the city of Havana in Cuba where it originated while Jovencita means “young lady.” 

Elisa McNamara, Aurea Barbee, Jennifer Stancil, Liezel Bell, Tonette Asay and Cecilia Perry performed the Habanera, a popular social dance in the old Philippine society. 

Their presentation centered on a wedding theme with bridesmaids dancing for the bride and groom and guests.

The third dance called the Pandanggo Sa Ilaw, a staple of the Mindoro region, involves female dancers balancing three oil lamps—one on her head and two on each hands.

It is intended to mimic the movement of fireflies at night. Those who performed the dance were Justin Reyes, Bo Dean Lankford, Klye Evan Ceniza, Jason Ave, Dazel Cularte, Nicole Jarical, Lindsay Carter, Abigail Costiniano, Ashley Prez and Pamela Maturan.

“The dances were all proud  Pinoy moments,” said Florami Lao Cordero-Lee, the 2013 FACC President. Lee, who chairs the Philippine Cultural Dance Troupe of Charlotte, was impressed with the performances.  

The Pinoy moments during the presentation were felt by the audience with the entrance of the FACC Board of Directors, an idea of FACC public relations officer Ram Cabanero.

“The jeepney was created with foam and built by FACC president Robert Escobal and his sons,” Aurea Barbee said.

Lee said the dancers reminded her of home in Manila when she rode the jeepney plying the route of Intramuros, Cubao, Makati and Muntinglupa.

Barbee said both banners were made and printed in the Philippines when Tonette Asay visited the Philippines in June.

The Bahay Kubo (nipa hut) on display was the favorite of those taking selfies and groupies and was another creative work of the first Vice president  Jessica Esguerra. 

Barbee, FACC secretary, told me that the dances were choreographed and directed by FACC 1st Vice-president Jessica Esguerra including the finale. 

“It was not easy to get everyone in each group at the same time due to work or school schedules,” Barbee said. 

A unique musical performance called Angklung sparked interest among the audience. As explained by FACC past president Dell Fallar, the Ankklung is an ancient musical instrument made of bamboo tubes attached to a bamboo frame. 

The base of the frame is held in one hand while the other hand shakes the instrument. Fallar said this musical instrument is recognized by UNESCO as a “Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible heritage of Humanity.

”The Angklung originated in the West Java and Banten provinces of Indonesia. Its popularity spreads throughout Southeast Asia including the Philippines,” Fallar said.

Those who performed the Angklung were Joan Ascalon, Cynthia Del Mundo, Grace Basilan, Myrna Kleitman, Gloria Grifenhagen, Sally Musni, Dell Fallar, Dr. Lucy Cabugwason, Guia Villapando, Dr. Nini Bautista, Merly Penilla, Roel Mata. Cristy Calicdan acted as conductor. A video of the Angklung performance can be seen here.

A musical finale was the song “Isang dugo, Isang Lahi, Isang Musika (One heart, one race, one music) closed the program, embodying the dream of every Filipino for one race under one music . 

The finale was performed by Jaypee Ave- 1st Vice president FACC 2013,Julienne Magbitang, Eliza Gail Sta.Ana , Ashley Perez, Janne Louise Fave and FACC past president Bert Rodriguez. 

The 29th FACC Gala night was dubbed as the Filipiniana Ball and was held at the The Oasis 604 Doug Mayers place. 

Robert John Escobal, FACC President extolled the contributions and support of the officers and the hard working members of the board of directors of FACC.

“Our 29th Gala  is a wonderful occasion of our community to joyfully come together to celebrate and honor the members of the countless contributions to the realization of our mission as an organization to understand and promote Filipino culture, enhance unity, as well as support meaningful charitable services and participate in worthwhile civic activities.”

Escobal who served for two terms also said he is proud of the FACC's unity as it remained strong, solid and growing organization for 29 years. 

US leaders like Governor Pat McCrory, State of North Carolina, Hon. Jennifer Watson Roberts, Mayor of Charlotte and Klaus E. Becker, Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany and Hon.Robert Pittenger, member of Congress sent their felicitations to FACC. 

Members of the FACC Board of Directors were Robert Escobal as president, Jessica Esguerra, 1st Vice President, Cecilia Perry, 2nd Vice President Aurea Barbee as Secretary, Liezel Bell as Treasurer, Luz Blackwell as Auditor, Ramuel Cabanero, PRO and Malette Oliveros Ex-Officio.

The attendees stayed late enjoying the fun, laughter and friendship that only Filipinos can give. More photos of the 29th FACC Gala Night can be seen in this link. 

(Susan Palmes-Dennis is a veteran journalist from Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Northern Mindanao in the Philippines and is now employed  in one of the school systems in the Carolinas.
Read her blogs on susanpalmesstraightfrom the Carolinas.com and at http://www.blogher.com/myprofile/spdennis54. These and other articles also appear at http://www.sunstar.com.ph/author/2582/susan-palmes-dennis.
You can also connect with her through her email susanap.dennis@yahoo.com as well as her Pinterest account at http://www.pinterest.com/pin/41025046580074350/) and https://www.facebook.com/pages/Straight-from-the-Carolinas-/494156950678063)

Special day for KJ

The parents Keith and Lindy Tonkin with KJ

By Susan Palmes-Dennis 

The christening of baby boy Keith Junior “KJ” Tonkin was a realization of a dream come true to parents Keith and Lindy Tonkin. While I missed attending the baptismal and the reception, I had the photos and some details of the event. 

The solemn christening at the St. Matthew Catholic Church at Pineville, North Carolina two weeks ago was an all-white affair—white was the color of the day--attended by close to 30 family members and friends. 

The parents and KJ with grandma

I was informed that selecting the godparents took sometime. 

Ever the doting dad, Keith needed to find good godparents who would be active in KJ's life and it was a difficult task. 

The couple eventually decided to have Jesett Kelly and Brian Sprinborg as sponsors. The past year I’ve been following the post of KJ's mom Lindy about her condition when she was admitted weeks before her delivery was due. 

Like her other Pinoy friends I was concerned too. Lindy, who hails from Palompon, Leyte province, was admitted at the Presbyterian Hospital in downtown Charlotte, North Carolina.

“We prefer to call him KJ since he was born in the hospital. He is a junior of Keith,” Lindy said. KJ was born on January 2, 2016 at 12:14 am. I learned that KJ was born prematurely at 27 weeks and he weighed 1 lbs. 7 oz.. 

“The doctors decided that I should give birth early due to complications in the baby's breathing,” Lindy said. KJ spent four months at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) before he was on the clear.

The reception was held at the Tonkins home and I've got the photos of the happy occasion. 

The parents and KJ with their godparents Jesett Kelly and Brian Sprinborg

The boys all in white

(Susan Palmes-Dennis is a veteran journalist from Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Northern Mindanao in the Philippines who worked as a nanny and is now employed as a sub-teacher and a part-time teacher assistant in one of the school systems in the Carolinas.
Read her blogs on susanpalmesstraightfrom the Carolinas.com and at http://www.blogher.com/myprofile/spdennis54. These and other articles also appear at http://www.sunstar.com.ph/author/2582/susan-palmes-dennis.
You can also connect with her through her email susanap.dennis@yahoo.com as well as her Pinterest account at http://www.pinterest.com/pin/41025046580074350/) and https://www.facebook.com/pages/Straight-from-the-Carolinas-/494156950678063)

'Moses is Coming' play in Charlotte on Nov, 4

by Susan Palmes-Dennis

After two years of successful performances the original Caribbean musical entitled “Moses is coming!” will be coming to Charlotte, North Carolina in the first week of November this year.

The play will be led by Jesuit priest Fr. Ho Lung, founder of the Missionaries of the Poor (MOP), an international Roman Catholic monastic religious institute of brothers which celebrated 33 years of existence and is dedicated to serving the poor.

“Moses is Coming” is based on the Old Testament account of the Hebrew leader and prophet that is updated with lively Caribbean rhythms and dance and colorful costumes.

One of the flyers described the show thus: ” Let the Holy Spirit awaken in you in a most marvelous way” and promised that it will bring tears and laughter to the audience as they see the enactment of Moses's story from the 10 plagues of Egypt to the parting of the Red Sea.

Tickets are priced at adults:$30.00,child(13 or younger):$15.00.students (high school/college), seniors ($60 plus) $20.00 family (four or more):$75.00,group (10 or more):$ 20.00 per ticket. Reservations are priced at $50.

Information and tickets are at www.mosesincharlotte.com or call 704-999-6354 980-228-0406.

Jesett Kelly, a member of St. Thomas Aquinas, is excited about the musical.

“We would surely watch it,” she said. Another Fil-American friend Dorena Reynolds was already reviewing the best schedule to watch the show at the Halton Theater.

The musical is scheduled from November 4 to 6 and is for the benefit of the poor, homeless and abandoned. Among the members of the MOP community are Filipinos from Masbate and Naga City and other parts of the Philippines.

The MOP's headquarters is in Kingston, Jamaica, where they maintain six missions homes for destitute persons,including the sick, disabled, or dying persons.

They also operate in India (Andra Pradesh and Orissa), the Philippines (Naga City and Cebu) Haiti (Cap-Haitien) Uganda, Kenya and in Monroe,North Carolina and the US. A mission is being established in Indonesia. 

'Moses is Coming' play in Charlotte on Nov, 4

by Susan Palmes-Dennis

After two years of successful performances, the original Caribbean musical entitled “Moses is coming!” will be coming to Charlotte, North Carolina in the first week of November this year.

The play will be led by Jesuit priest Fr. Ho Lung, founder of the Missionaries of the Poor (MOP), an international Roman Catholic monastic religious institute of brothers which celebrated 33 years of existence and is dedicated to serving the poor.

“Moses is Coming” is based on the Old Testament account of the Hebrew leader and prophet that is updated with lively Caribbean rhythms and dance and colorful costumes.

One of the flyers described the show thus: ” Let the Holy Spirit awaken in you in a most marvelous way” and promised that it will bring tears and laughter to the audience as they see the enactment of Moses's story from the 10 plagues of Egypt to the parting of the Red Sea.

Tickets are priced at adults:$30.00,child(13 or younger):$15.00.students (high school/college), seniors ($60 plus) $20.00 family (four or more):$75.00,group (10 or more):$ 20.00 per ticket. Reservations are priced at $50.

Information and tickets are at www.mosesincharlotte.com or call 704-999-6354 980-228-0406.

Jesett Kelly, a member of St. Thomas Aquinas, is excited about the musical.

“We would surely watch it,” she said. Another Fil-American friend Dorena Reynolds was already reviewing the best schedule to watch the show at the Halton Theater.

The musical is scheduled from November 4 to 6 and is for the benefit of the poor, homeless and abandoned. Among the members of the MOP community are Filipinos from Masbate and Naga City and other parts of the Philippines.

The MOP's headquarters is in Kingston, Jamaica, where they maintain six missions homes for destitute persons,including the sick, disabled, or dying persons.

They also operate in India (Andra Pradesh and Orissa), the Philippines (Naga City and Cebu) Haiti (Cap-Haitien) Uganda, Kenya and in Monroe,North Carolina and the US. A mission is being established in Indonesia. 

FAS hosts art auction fundraiser

Me at right with past FACC presidents Florami Lao Cordero-Lee and Malette Aquino-Oliveros

by Susan Palmes-Dennis

As far as Dr. Nini Bautista, chairperson of the Filipino-American Spirit (FAS) is concerned, she sees “energy” in the Sept. 11 art auction fundraiser at the Asian Library.

Bautista, former chairperson of the Board of the Carolinas Asian-American Chamber and president of the Filipino-American Community of the Carolinas (FACC), gave the welcome remarks to more than 50 guests at the time the auction opened at 3 pm.

Charlotte Mayor Jennifer Roberts gave an inspirational message while Dr. Ki-Hyun and Dr. Sunny Chun of the Chun Group, Inc. cut the ribbon to mark the opening of the art auction which featured paintings and artwork for sale.

Charlotte Mayor Jennifer Roberts (center) with Dr. Ki Hun and Dr, Sunny Chun

Clad in Filipiniana attire Dr. Bautista, organizer of the event, said the artists each donated one of their works and the FAS earns a commission on each piece.

“We want them to earn also. It's a win-win,” Dr. Bautista grinned. Among those who attended the sale were two former FACC presidents Florami Lao Cordero-Lee and Malette Aquino-Oliveros.

Lee said the art auction helped mobilize the Fil-Americans in the Carolinas while Oliveros, who brought food to the event, said she wished that all her friends were able to join the activity.

Dr. Bautista also mentioned internationally renowned artists William Yu and Rene Robles who donated their works to the auction.

“Their works are among in the collection of the King of Spain and found in the museum in Germany,” Dr. Bautista said. “One work of William Yu was donated by Wally (Penilla),” she said.

Dr. Bautista said a local artist named Astrid Martin, an executive in the Bank of America, would always donate the proceeds of her one-woman show to a worthy cause. 

Artist Edelweiss de Guzman with Dr. Nini Bautista Garcia

It was learned that Martin's parents are Filipinos and that the proceeds of her one-woman show were donated to diabetes advocacy. “Martin's works are really good,” Dr. Bautista said.

Other artists featured in the art auction were Alex Romero, Edelweiss de Guzman, Alex Henry, William Antonio, John Hugo and many others. All are passionate about their work and their commitment to contributing to a good cause.

FAS vice–chairman Wally Penilla said the FAS organized the fundraiser to provide for the Carolina/ANCOP Village in Nagtipunan, Quirino province in the Philippines.”

Clad in a barong Tagalog, Penila agreed that the art auction was a success. He said they aimed to raise US $20,000 to fund installation of a water system in Nagtipunan and help 28 families there.

Penilla, also a past president of the FACC, recalled that way back in 2006 they raised funds in Charlotte to build 30 houses in Nagtipunan town, Quirino province in the Philippines. He said FAS built 28 houses in the town between 2006 to 2010.

FAS movers Clodualdo Wally Penilla and Adelia Fallar

“We raised funds for two more houses but we send them money to build school buildings and buy school supplies,” Penilla said. When asked how often they sent money to the adopted village in the Philippines, Penilla replied “every time they ask for it.”

Penilla said the residents were able to dig 100 plus feet and found potable water where they can build water tanks, a filtration system and water pipelines directly to the houses.

“We continue to support them and after they finish the water system we hope it helps support their livelihood,” Penilla said. The FAS also supports other villages like the one in Naga City and the other in Masbate.

The FAS is recognized by the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a public charity organization. It had been working to improve the lives of the marginalized sectors both here in Charlotte and abroad, focusing on health and sanitation.

Dr. Bautista said the FAS had been raising funds for charitable causes since 2003. She said the FAS was born out of the Fil-American community's longing for a mechanism to help Filipino communities in the Carolinas and in the Philippines.

“All these years, the hard work, paper work and research paid off,” Dr. Bautista said.

The FAS is composed of such hard working Filipino-American residents of Charlotte like Doris Mata, Del Fallar, Steve Mirman, Jake Miranda, Guia Villapando and Dr. Bautista as chairperson and Penilla as vice-chairperson.

“Our hands are tight. Imagine there is a lot to do,” Dr. Bautista said. Penilla also added that he is encouraging the younger generation of Fil-Americans to take over from them. “They can do a lot,” he said.

The FAS is composed of past presidents of the Filipino-American Community of the Carolinas (FACC) and is run by the board. It actively contributed to the relief efforts for victims of supertyphoon Haiyan (Yolanda) in the Visayas two years ago.

“We were able to raise US $12,000 and the amount was sent to Doctors Without Boarders and the Catholic Relief Services,” Penilla said. All in all, the FAS art auction was a success.

Me with husband Ronnie and Edelweiss de Guzman

(Susan Palmes-Dennis is a veteran journalist from Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Northern Mindanao in the Philippines  and is now employed  in one of the school systems in the Carolinas.
Read her blogs on susanpalmesstraightfrom the Carolinas.com and at http://www.blogher.com/myprofile/spdennis54. These and other articles also appear at http://www.sunstar.com.ph/author/2582/susan-palmes-dennis.
You can also connect with her through her email susanap.dennis@yahoo.com as well as her Pinterest account at http://www.pinterest.com/pin/41025046580074350/) and https://www.facebook.com/pages/Straight-from-the-Carolinas-/494156950678063

A night of classical music with SAMMAKAMI

by Susan Palmes-Dennis

Save this date--September 30—on your calendar for you are in for a treat, a night of classical music courtesy of SAMMAKAMI.

The concert entitled SAMMAKAMi Goes Classical will be held at the Stargate Vacation Resort at Upper Macasandig, Cagayan de Oro City.

The invite from Ophelia Moreno-Lacre, a neighbor at Melecia Homes, explained that the concert is set in a garden setting at Stargate Resort, a minute away from Melecia Homes and other subdivisions in Upper Macasandig. 

The garden would provide a beautiful backdrop to a romantic evening for music lovers and guests. Tickets will be available for sale to the public on September 1. 

Ophie is the concert organizer and she told me that the audience will be treated to an evening of definitive classical guitar courtesy of Ernesto “Ernie” Vasquez, who will perform band covers of artists like Sitti Navarro, Lani Misalucha, Karen Carpenter and Diana Krall.

Ernie P. Vasquez, a Filipino concert guitarist, was a three time national champion of classical guitar in 1979, 1980.1981 in the national competition for young artist (NAMCYA) held at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. 

Vasquez is a graduate of Bachelor of Science Major in Management at Xavier University. His repertoire ranges from Bossa Nova, Flamenco, classical kundiman and any contemporary music. 

Ernie Vasquez performed with many singers and musicians including  Max Surban at Mactan Cebu. He accompanied Surban in his song entitled "Matud Nila"  which can be found at  YouTube. 

SAMMAKAMI or Samahang ng Mga Musikero at Mang-Aawit ng Kagayan de Oro sa Mindanao Inc. (SAMMAKAMI Inc.) was founded in 2005 by Manny June Peralta. 

Unknown to Ophie, I am familiar with the group and often invited them to my Sunday TV program at COC TV 39 and promoted their gigs before. 

Even before Ophie asked me to write about them, I knew that this group of local musicians bonded together to help fellow musicians and singers. 

Manny June Peralta and the other founding members must be happy and proud that SAMMAKAMI had grown through the years. 

Ophie Lacre is the first cousin of Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar Moreno and is originally from Balingasag whose husband and children are into music as well.

“There were 500 members then,” Ophie said, but through the years it has dwindled in membership. She explained that there is a renewed increase in  membership these days especially now that it's being clustered, 

Clustering the SAMMAKAMi  is aimed at increasing the affiliates. Francis Bax is the cluster consultant.  Now it has 300 members.  The incumbent chairman is Hipolito Gregorio while the vice chairman is Gilde Pakino. 

A brief history of  SAMMAKAMI Inc; It was registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission in January 3, 2014.

Based on their mission/vision, SAMMAKAMI Inc. is an association of professional musicians and singers in Cagayan de Oro organized to give purpose and meaning and value to the morale and esteem of the singers and musicians of the city and Northern Mindanao.

The group wants to develop a sense of camaraderie and professional affinity among members through participation and cooperation in funding and implementation of its programs. 

Their mission is to make the group self-sustaining and empowered through income generation projects, healthcare and insurance for the members in order to improve their quality and standard of life. 

Their goal is to establish a music academy in the city. A portion of the proceeds of the Sept. 30 concert will go to their insurance project. On their behalf, I would like to invite everyone to watch the concert. 

I have enjoyed listening to them on TV before and I assure you you would enjoy listening to them now. A fireworks display will cap off the evening concert. Tickets will be on sale on leading outlets in Cagayan de Oro City on Sept.1. 

For more info, search: Sammakami Inc. Concerts or call @09264877132 and look for Ophie Moreno-Lacre.

(Susan Palmes-Dennis is a veteran journalist from Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Northern Mindanao in the Philippines who worked as a nanny and is now employed as a sub-teacher and a part-time teacher assistant in one of the school systems in the Carolinas.

Read her blogs on susanpalmesstraightfrom the Carolinas.com and at http://www.blogher.com/myprofile/spdennis54. These and other articles also appear at http://www.sunstar.com.ph/author/2582/susan-palmes-dennis.
You can also connect with her through her email susanap.dennis@yahoo.com as well as her Pinterest account at http://www.pinterest.com/pin/41025046580074350/) and https://www.facebook.com/pages/Straight-from-the-Carolinas-/494156950678063)

Welcoming Kellen Jr. to the world

Florami (second from left) poses with the family

by Susan Palmes-Dennis

The birth of a grandchild is not only a cause for joy but also a reminder of one's expanding roots, as Florami Lao Cordero-Lee told me last week.

She became the proud grandmother to Kellen Martin, whom she said had connected her to her ancestors and her husband's family tree.

“I am just a proud grandma,” Florami told me after the birth of her first grandbaby four months ago. The good looking grandma who can be mistaken as the boy's mother said it again during Kellen's dedication over the weekend.  

Florami, past president of the Filipino-American community in the Carolinas (FACC), is always available to baby sit Kellen Martin-Lee despite a hectic schedule in between family, work and social commitments.

Kellen Martin is four months old and was dedicated before the Reverend Pastor Chris Justice at Lee Park Church in Monroe. Pastor Chris Justice used to be a TV sport caster on channel 36.

The baby took the name of his dad Kellen Lee making him a junior. The name was decided by proud parents Kellen and Lindsey.  Grandma Florami confided that it feels like their home is flooded with love whenever the baby's around.

“ I look into Kellen’s eyes and see the blue gray eyes of his mom Lindsey,” she said. 

Florami also said she sees her husband Wyatt's hands in Kellen's tiny hands. 
Through Kellen Jr. Florami sees her son in his eyes. 

“ I felt a renewed bond with him and his parents and the family. And we are all connected. I am so happy for them,” Florami said.

A reception followed at the Field Stone Farm Clubhouse at 5005 Houndscroft Td. Indian Trail, 28079 where a mix of Filipino delicacies and American food were served to the guests.

Of course Lola Florami cooked the Filipino food while the American dishes were prepared by the couple's American grandmother.

(Susan Palmes-Dennis is a veteran journalist from Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Northern Mindanao in the Philippines who worked as a nanny and is now employed as a sub-teacher and a part-time teacher assistant in one of the school systems in the Carolinas.

Read her blogs on susanpalmesstraightfrom the Carolinas.com and at http://www.blogher.com/myprofile/spdennis54. These and other articles also appear at http://www.sunstar.com.ph/author/2582/susan-palmes-dennis.
You can also connect with her through her email susanap.dennis@yahoo.com as well as her Pinterest account at http://www.pinterest.com/pin/41025046580074350/) and https://www.facebook.com/pages/Straight-from-the-Carolinas-/494156950678063)

Rekindling their vows of love

The couple Janet Pichon and Richard Hixson

by Susan Palmes-Dennis

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina—It was a beautiful Friday afternoon at St. Gabriel Church last April 18 when two favorite friends renewed their vow of marriage in the presence of family, close friends and love ones.  

It was a solemn Catholic wedding of Janet Pichon to Richard Hixson and it reminded me of how beautiful the word love is.  “I feel in love and I wanted to cry,” said Beverly Jan Engracia, one of the bridesmaids.

Engracia is a practicing dentist in Davao City, Philippines and she flew in days before the big date just to be with her childhood friend on her important day. 

St. Gabriel Church was just the perfect place for the renewal of vows. The church itself was located at the corner of old streets in the residential area. The church is elevated and the structure's beauty doesn't escape the eyes of passerby.

Inside the church was decorated with fresh flowers of different colors. A big wreath with flowers hung on the right side of the altar facing the churchgoers while candles of different shapes and sizes adorned the church and enhanced the ambiance.

The couple with family and friends

Richard and Janet were married in civil rites eight years ago and decided to renew their vows this time in church. 

It took Richard seven years to court the wife to have a church wedding.

“But he proposes a church wedding everyday,” Janet giggled. 

Her white veil was handmade embroidery lace and measured 20 feet long.  About 300 Swarovski  were added to the veil. It was elegant and stunning. 

“We made our commitment to each other eight years ago to honor, love, cherish, and be with one another and we finally have blessed our love together in receiving the Sacrament of Matrimony in our Catholic faith surrounded with our love ones,” Janet said.

As a Catholic, she knows the importance of marriage as husband and wife bound by God together. The ceremony was made classic with the opening of the Ave Maria Song by Schubert performed by soloist Leigh Ann Duda.

The processional “Canon in D” Pachelbel and the Trumpet Voluntary Clarke only added to the ambiance of love in the church . It was a great piece of music on its own but also evokes fond sentiments. 

Dr. Larry Stremeyer was the organist. My husband Ronnie Dennis was teary-eyed and admitted he almost cried.  Truly, Ave Maria is the kind of music that restores one’s faith. 

Janet was radiant in her white wedding dress  with no straps and straight cut on the bust and it perfectly shaped her bodice. 

It was made of silk but 1,000 pieces of Sharovski was added to complement the radiant white. 

It was personally designed by Oleg Cassini. Janet won the title of Mrs. USA-Asia in 2010. 

She walked along the aisle with her father Edgar Pichon. 

But the bride’s mother Elma Edgar Pichon had her moment as she was the first to walk in the altar in her purple long dress. 

Chona “Inday” Burnstrum was the matron of honor who came all the way from Indianapolis, Indiana with her husband Brad Bursturm who also stood as Groomsman. 

The couple’s son Skylar served as the ring bearer. The Burnstrums are close friends of Janet.  Ann Miller, Carrie Silvers, Junne Lee Pichon (the bride's sister) and Beverly Jan Engracia were the bridesmaids. 

Other groomsmen were the groom's nephew Mike Hixson, the bride's brother Jojith Pichon and Janet's brother-in-law Mario Hernandez. The coin bearer was Adriane Hernandez. 

Spreading the petals of flowers were Nevaeh Miller, Izzabella Pichon and Cassandra Hernandez while Armela and Mary Pichon held the viel.  Deacon Dr. Mark Diener officiate the ceremony. 

Lastly, Richard's brother Larry Hixson served as best man. What struck my attention was the part of the lighting of the unity candle while the couples favorite song “Love of My Life” played.  

Janet said the song is her personal choice because it describes “how she feels and how she loves Richard.” She said Richard was a gift from heaven as he is a good provider to her and her kids.  

“He honored me and cherishes me. Every day he reminds me how he loves me. God gave him to me.” Janet said her search for the perfect man ended when she met Richard. “Because i know he is the one i want.”

Chona Burnstrum, who has been Janet's friend for the last 17 years, said she wishes “with all her heart” the best for Janet and Richard. “Love and happiness for them together,” she said.

Florami Lao Cordero-Lee, past president of the Fil-American Community of the Carolinas (FACC) who came with her husband Wyatt, quoted 1 Corinthians 13:7 in wishing Janet and Richard the best.

“My message to them is from the Bible verse: Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures every circumstance. 1st Corinthians 13:7 is my favorite too,” she said.

Other guests include Angela Cook, Rita Miles and her husband, Terri Gallagher and the neighbors of Janet and Richard here in Charlotte. The reception and dancing was held at the Ritz Carlton Hotel also in downtown Charlotte.

As I watched the couple's excitement, I thought back to the many weddings I attended in the past including that of my daughters and friends. Marriages make one believe that love abounds everywhere.

Me with the bride

(Susan Palmes-Dennis is a veteran journalist from Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Northern Mindanao in the Philippines who worked as a nanny and is now employed as a sub-teacher and a part-time teacher assistant in one of the school systems in the Carolinas.

Read her blogs on susanpalmesstraightfrom the Carolinas.com and at http://www.blogher.com/myprofile/spdennis54. These and other articles also appear at http://www.sunstar.com.ph/author/2582/susan-palmes-dennis.
You can also connect with her through her email susanap.dennis@yahoo.com as well as her Pinterest account at http://www.pinterest.com/pin/41025046580074350/) and https://www.facebook.com/pages/Straight-from-the-Carolinas-/494156950678063)

Voting on the FACC's leaders

by Susan Palmes-Dennis

The election issue may not have been fully resolved yet but the board of directors of the Filipino-American Community of the Carolinas (FACC) for this year 2016 took their oaths of office two days after receiving a mandate from those who attended the Special Meeting and Referendum last February 6. 

The board of directors consisted of Robert Escobal, Jessica Esguerra, Aurea Barbee, Liezel Bell, Maria Luz Blackwell, Ram Cabanero, Cecilia Perry and Tonette Asay.

The majority of the Board of Directors were officers last year and were later asked to stay on as interim officers. They were given a fresh mandate by 38 members who voted last Saturday. 

The two new members of the 2016 BOD are Luz Blackwell and Tonette Asay.  
The FACC meeting held at the Asian Library at downtown Charlotte, North Carolina was called by Escobal in order to address the election issues facing the group. 

It involved the use of the so-called “jack n' poy” (the Filipino equivalent of rock, papers, scissors game of the Americans) method in choosing the next batch of leaders. This method didn't sit well with members and non-members and eventually open others issues.

The meeting took more than three hours as FACC waited on members to show up until the last call at 6 pm. Members were given three options to vote on in order to decide on the leadership issue.

The first option was to validate support for the  interim board of directors to serve until December 2016 while the second called for another election in accordance with the FACC's by-laws.

Option three would allow the FACC advisory council to become the caretaker of the group until the next regular election. Of the 48 votes cast, 38 voted for option 1 while eight voted for option 2 and two voted for option 3.

The meeting also allowed members to pay the annual fees in order to vote for the referendum on the three options. A member was asked what she voted for and she answered option 1.

“It is easier and we don’t have to go back here and vote again.”  Another member who voted for option 1 said it's time that the FACC is united in supporting their leadership. 

Past President Lynn Lorenzo-Polk was vocal on her choice though she was unable to vote since she was attending an important State Democratic Executive meeting in Raleigh last Feb. 6 due to her membership in the State executive Committee.

“True, members voted for option 1 because that, to them, is the easiest option. There is a problem when people are too complacent to what's going on. We have to change,” she said. Polk said she would have voted for option 2. 

Under the present by-laws only 10 percent of the registered voting members are required to constitute a quorum which in the case of the special meeting last Saturday would be 10 registered members.  

While waiting for the results of the 6 pm meeting, FACC members like Dr. Tony Amor, Marcelo Bueno, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Amigo, Melo Acton and Luz Taboada started discussing pressing issues of the community. 

Paul Amigo, a past FACC president, said the FACC leaders should be servant leaders willing to uphold the interest of the members.

He referenced a recent blog written by this author which mentioned that some FACC leaders were described as being elitist and pathetic.He said he is a servant leader and not "pathetic".However Amigo said he agrees that there should be accountability, transparency and participation of the general membership in FACC activities like the elections.    

Contrary to tradition, Amigo even broke the sanctity of his vote by revealing to those present that he voted for Option Number 2 because he wants changes in the by-laws.

Amigo's disclosure encouraged others to level up, so to speak and discuss the pros and cons of each option. It eventually led them hypothetically discuss why  vote for Option 2. 

“I think we are all in agreement to get these things moving and vote for Option 2. If I voted for option 1 without doing anything else we are on the same hole as before,” Bueno said.

Bueno, a World Bank consultant,said voting on Option 2 admittedly will delay some annual events of the FACC. “But that is fine we may extend the term of the new board to cover more action. But at least let's do it right,” he said. 

Amigo said Bueno's sentiments were similar to what he emailed to Tony Amor and Ram Cabanero, the FACC's press relations officer, in which he reiterated greater accountability, transparency and participation of everyone in the FACC.

Amigo also said he places his name on his vote because he respected the sanctity of the ballot. But Bueno said the member's right to confidentiality on who he or she voted for should also be respected as it is inherent in preserving the sanctity of the ballot.  

The group called on Ram Cabanero who explained about the pilferage of votes in some elections that's why the voting paper was with names of the voters.The explanation  met a lukewarm reception from the group. 

When Tony Amor asked Cabanero what the interim board would do if the members voted for Option 1, he said they would work to reform the by-laws. When called on by the group, Escobal said the same thing explaining that they should change the by-laws to meet standards set by other established groups. 

Escobal disclosed he already assigned Steve Mirman to head the committee on reforms of the by–laws. “If you want to volunteer since the process is simple, volunteer yourself,” he told the group.

An argument ensued between Bueno and Escobal but cooler heads prevailed before it escalated. Polk said there's a need to change the mindset of the FACC group whose members she thinks had become complacent on what's going on within the ranks.

“We have to change our way of running the FACC with open meetings, revising our bylaws, making people interested and more active in our organization. Our leaders have to be diplomatic and be willing to discuss problems when these are presented to them. We should change our ways,” she said.

Neglecting to do this may result in the FACC's demise in the near future, Polk said. 

(Susan Palmes-Dennis is a veteran journalist from Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Northern Mindanao in the Philippines  and is now employed as a teacher assistant in one of the school systems in the Carolinas.

Read her blogs on susanpalmesstraightfrom the Carolinas.com and at http://www.blogher.com/myprofile/spdennis54. These and other articles also appear at http://www.sunstar.com.ph/author/2582/susan-palmes-dennis.
You can also connect with her through her email susanap.dennis@yahoo.com as well as her Pinterest account at http://www.pinterest.com/pin/41025046580074350/) and https://www.facebook.com/pages/Straight-from-the-Carolinas-/494156950678063)