Tagalog learning class opens at Eskwelahang Munti

THE Tagalog learning class at the Eskwelahang Munti (Little School) had just opened at the Asian Library in downtown, Charlotte, North Carolina

Gloria Cagadas-Grifenhagin, a retired school teacher of the Charlotte Mecklenburg  School (CMS) said the Tagalog class had four adult students so far. The two-hour class starts at 10 am and ends at noon.

Sometimes class is held at her home, Grifenhagin said. “The Tagalog learning class is open to any Americans or anyone interested to learn the Tagalog language,” she said.

In the 1930s, it was decided that Tagalog would serve as the basis for the national language of the Philippines; this language was called “Wikang Pambansa” (literally “National Language”).

Learning another language for kids is good since people easily retain knowledge and memory of another language in childhood. Adults can also benefit from learning a second language in order to exercise their brains, Grifenhagin said.

She said there is a study that shows that adults learning another language can help stall dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.  

Classes are free of charge. The class meets twice a month for two hours either at the Asian Library or at the Grifenhagin home./Susan Palmes-Dennis 

FACC holds second oathtaking for new officers

The Filipino-American Community of the Carolinas Inc. (FACC) held its second oath taking for the second batch of officers of the board at the Oasis Shrine at uptown Charlotte, last Saturday, Jan. 21.

Leading the new members of the FACC 2017 board were Edelweiss de Guzman as 2nd VP, Beth Rothermund, Tonette Batoon-Asay and J Andrew Arlegui as area representatives. 

Overseeing the induction of officers is Steve Mirman, FACC election member. In her speech Dr. Nini Bautista, one of the key FACC figures, reiterated the importance of volunteerism to the community.

She also reminded the officers about sacrificing some of their time and effort to build the FACC. Last Saturday's induction completes the lineup of FACC officers for 2017.

The FACC Board of Directors 2017 is composed of the following: Susan Dennis-president, Cip Onia -1st VP, Edelweiss de Guzman 2nd VP, Carllyn Francisco Ave-Secretary- Yulie Amar-Armstrong Treasurer- Dorena Reynolds-Auditor. 

Area representatives  who took their oaths were Miah Price, J Andrew Arlegui, Beth Rothermund, Jyoti Friedland and Tonette Batoon-Asay. 

Rogelio “RO” Lawsin, area representative for Mecklinburg County, is expected to take his oath soon./Susan Palmes-Dennis

New FACC officials for 2017 sworn in

FACC officers for 2017 taking their oaths of office

The new officers and Board of Directors of the Fil-American Community of the Carolinas, Inc. (FACC) 2017 were finally inducted to office last Saturday, January 14. 

Sworn in were Susan Dennis as president, Cip Onia 1st Vice President, Carllyn Franciso-Ave as Board Secretary, Yulie Amar Armstrong as Treasurer and Dorena Reynolds as Auditor. 

Also inducted were area representatives Miah R. Prize and Jyoti Friedland. Dr. Chris Villapando, director of Faith Formation at the Charlotte Catholic diocese conducted the invocation and he prayed to God to bless the past and present officers of the FACC which celebrates its 30th year in 2017.

Ashley Faye Perez then conducted the singing of the Philippine and American Anthems (Bayang Magiliw and the Star Spangled Banner). 

Elections Committee member and chairman Bert Rodriguez and Steve Mirman administered the oath to the officers with more than 100 witnesses in attendance. Rodriguez and Mirman were all past presidents of the FACC.

In a brief speech, Rodriguez talked about the value of social responsibility and altruism in serving the community as well as leadership among the volunteers. 

Rodriguez served as FACC president in 2011 and since then he and Mirman were members of the FACC Comelec (Commission on Elections).

In her acceptance speech, Dennis  talked about where FACC is headed in 2017 which is centered on its mission statement for the year. 

She said this year's mission statement and theme would be FACC in the 21st century: Beyond the Gala. 

Dennis said her leadership would be anchored on transparency and accountability.  

She likewise recognized existing Fil-Ams organizations in the area and how to collaborate and build alliances with them. 

Some of the projects that this year’s BOD would undertake were mentioned such as a revisit of the 30-year-old by-laws to adjust it to the changing times. 

In her message Dr. Nini RB Bautista, 2003 FACC president and CAACC chairperson emerita and past president, reminded the officers that the FACC is facing challenging times and tasks ahead.

Among these tasks, she said, is helping preserve and pass on the culture and values of the Filipinos to the younger generation of Fil-Americans. 

She likewise thanked all those who have served the FACC in the past in various capacities. Ram Cabanero, the FACC's 2016 press relations officer, emceed the program while outgoing FACC 1st VP Jessica Esguerra represented the 2016 president Robert Escobal. 

The swearing-in was attended by members of the FACC from as far as Salisbury, North Carolina. Past presidents Adelia Fallar, Lynn Lorenzo-Polk and Florami Lao Cordero-Lee were also in attendance along with Dr. Antonio Amor and Melo Acton. 

Also spotted during the ceremony were Mrs. Asia-USA 2011 Janette Pichon  Hixson, Guia Villapando, Gloria Grefinhagen ,director of the Eskwelahang Munti and husband Bill Grefinhagen. 

Even those who helped in the formation of FACC 30 years ago like Mila Oates of Mooreville attended the event. Award winning photographer and artist Alex Romero also took photos of the momentous event. 

In the meantime the oath-taking of the other members of the team like Rogelio Lawsin, Beth Rothermund, Tonette Baton-Asay and Edelwiess de Guzman would be held on Saturday, January 21 at the Oasis Shrine at 10 AM./Susan Palmes-Dennis with photos from Yulie Amara and Carilyn Francisco Ave taken from their Facebook accounts

FACC officers, members and their families and friends pose for this group shot

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)