Please visit this post often for updates. Contact NaFFAA Region 8 Media Group, “connecting media + community, at NaFFAANorCal@gmail.com.

The NaFFAA Region 8 Board moved and passed a motion after going through its due process starting January 28, 2013: “NaFFAA Region 8, through its Alameda Chapter, will participate in re-naming a middle school in the New Haven Unified School District to be named after Filipino heroes, in whatever capacity we can provide to the Re-Naming Committee.”

Charito Benipayo is NaFFAA Region 8 - Alameda County Chapter’s Chair and Sansu Ramsey is NaFFAA Region 8 - Alameda County Chapter’s Vice Chair. Jim Navarro is the Union City Chair of the NaFFAA Region 8 Alameda Chapter.

UPDATE:

For Immediate Release

April 17, 2013

The New Haven Unified Board of Education on Tuesday night approved the renaming of Alvarado Middle School to Itliong-Vera Cruz Middle School, effective September 2015. Itliong-Verz Cruz Middle School will be the first school in the nation named after Filipino Americans. The name change honors the work of Filipino-American labor leaders Larry Itliong and Philip Vera Cruz, were organizers and labor leaders for Agricultural Workers Organizing Committee, which initiated the 1965 Delano Grape Strike later joined by Cesar Chavez’s organization, the National Farmworkers Association. The two organizations eventually merged, forming the United Farmworkers (UFW).

An implementation plan will ensue in order to facilitate the transition and community groups have pledged to raise funds so that no cost will be incurred to the District for new signage, stationary, and other incidental expenditures related to the renaming. The anticipated costs have been estimated to be $15,600.

Of particular significance during the renaming campaign was the organizing and leadership of Union City’s Filipino-American youth groups. Their composure and perseverance in the face of adversity, and the passion with which they organized a local rally, a march, and an educational community workshop demonstrate their commitment to affecting real change.

Anthony Chavez, grandson of Cesar Chavez, attended the Board meeting to affirm the importance of Itliong and Vera Cruz in the development of his grandfather’s legacy and improvement of farmworkers’ rights. Chavez said his grandfather’s work would not have been possible without the help of Itliong and Vera Cruz and that renaming the school would “bring about a great unity.” Additionally, a letter of support sent by Dolores Huerta was read at the Board meeting. The support of these two individuals, as well as the support of organizations such as the Fred Korematsu Institute at the Asian Law Caucus, sent the very distinct message that the name change stems from and celebrates inter-ethnic solidarity and that the benefits of the change extend to all Americans, not just those of Filipino descent.

Fundraising and planning have already begun, headed by the Pilipino American Society for Education, Filipino Advocates for Justice, JLHS Filipino Heritage Studies class, and Kaisahan. Aside from raising money, the primary goal of these groups is to educate the community to build awareness and strengthen unity among Union City’s diverse communities.

Contacts:
Joe Ku’e Angeles jangeles@nhusd.k12.ca.us 510-471-2520
Erica Viray Santos eviraysantos@slsja.org 510-378-9834

PREVIOUSLY:

WHAT CAN WE DO TO SHOW OUR SUPPORT?

1. Forward this link to all your family and friends who know someone (or everybody) in Union City, California. http://naffaar8.com/naffaa-region-8-supports-re-naming-of-school-to-itliong-vera-cruz-middle-school/

2. Sign the ONLINE PETITION that supports this Re-Naming. Click here: http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/support_the_renaming/

It doesn’t matter if you are from Union City, Alaska, Philippines, or Germany. Show your support for DIVERSITY IN ACTION by signing the online petition.

NaFFAA Region 8 thanks KAISAHAN for sending this online petition via Facebook.

Support the renaming of Alvarado Middle School in Union City, CA after Larry Itliong and Philip Vera Cruz!

Please show the Filipino Community in Union City, CA that they have your support.

Let’s honor our Filipino heroes!

1 in 3 students in New Haven Unified School District are Filipino.
1 in 5 people in Union City are Filipino.
No history, no self. Know history, know self.
Let’s make history!

3. Show up at the Public Hearings and Community Forums!

4. Send emails and letters of endorsement. (Please check again for updates.)

___

TIME SCHEDULE:

1. During the New Haven Unified School District’s January 15, 2013 Board Meeting, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to re-name Alvarado Middle School.

The School Board is hosting a public hearing on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 at 7:30 pm at the Educational Services Center, 34200 Alvarado-Niles Road, Union City, CA.

Please come and join the Public Hearing — and show for support for DIVERSITY IN ACTION.

2. On March 19, 2013 at the Educational Services Center for the New Haven Unified School District located at 34200 Alvarado-Niles Road, Union City, the five-member School Board will vote on the names suggested by the public.

Show your support by sending a LETTER OF ENDORSEMENT to the Superintendant of Schools and each School Board member about the Re-Naming of the Alvarado Middle School to Itliong-Vera Cruz Middle School.

(We will update this section with template letters and email addresses. Stay tuned!)

Oscar Penaranda, a Filipino American educator and author, says it best:

Go to this site: http://www.delanomanongs.com/ (password: manongs) and see a short trailer on a documentary being made on this history. I said one does not have to look far because it is written all over the record books of Logan High School ever since (and they say even before that) I taught there in the early 90s that the student body’s officers year after year are 90% Filipino Americans, and 90% of those 90% are girls! Our women are strong. And they did not obtain their leadership skills in a vacuum. They got it from the spirit of their ancestors such as Larry Itliong and Philip Vera Cruz.

Union City was a farming community, an orchard town, historically and traditionally rooted in agriculture. The impact of Itliong’s and Vera Cruz’s labor struggles and achievements go beyond the Filipino community. Whatever impact the UFW brings, so also goes the footprints of Larry and Philip.

This naming shows more accurately the ethnic diversity of the New Haven Community and the presence of Filipino Americans in the District, whose forbearers were national heroes and whose contributions were under-represented in institutions. We are not an isolated minority in an isolated ethnicity. We are part of a larger multi-ethnic movement (see legislations of Rob Bonta and Leland Yee) to teach all students the Filipinos’ part in the farm workers’ struggle, a movement to bring this consciousness to all U.S. institutions.

One positive sign of a mature community is to recognize the contributions of
its diverse population. This actually is a very U.S. concept: E Pluribu Unum. “Out of many, One.” This means not just the recognition and acceptance of other cultures and ethnicities, but the welcome and collaboration as well, in all public welfare decisions.

Cesar Chavez was a great man whose leadership and charisma became the voice
of the UFW. The highlighting of the Filipinos’ part in the forming of the UFW is not to take anything away from Cesar Chavez and the Chicanos’ part in that struggle. Neither does the naming of this school. I just want folks to also know the Filipinos’ part in that history. It has been hidden. I do not see it as one against the other but as once again brothers and sisters in the struggle, in our long standing 500 year shared history, of Mexicans and Filipinos.

Re-Naming Union City School Will Make History With Filipino American Heroes by Lorna Dietz

___

Union City, CA: Why the New Name Should Be Itliong-Vera Cruz Middle School, an OP-ED by Oscar Penaranda by Lorna Dietz

___

VIDEOS:

For your 2013 membership RENEWALS, contact Jinni Mabalot Bartolome at scrapbookjin@hotmail.com (regional treasurer)

For NEW memberships, contact Lorna Dietz at NaFFAANorCal@gmail.com (regional chair) so she can endorse membership sponsorships to the County chairs. Please call (415) 508-5326 and leave a voicemail message. Thank you.

TO SEE AND HEAR LORNA SCHOFIELD, we found a youtube video (that is not embeddable). Go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mK0PgKWPpPc to watch the video.

Lorna Schofield

Dec. 13, 2012

Contact: Bing Branigin, 202-361-1024
Jon Melegrito, 202-361-0296

Washington, D.C. – The National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) is celebrating the confirmation of Lorna Schofield as a federal district judge in the Southern District of New York. By a 91-0 vote today, the United States Senate confirmed Schofield, the first person of Filipino descent to serve in this critical court.
“Ms. Schofield’s confirmation by the Senate is a historic moment not only for our community but for the entire nation,” says NaFFAA National Chairman Ed Navarra. “Given that Asian Americans are significantly underrepresented in the federal judiciary, Ms. Shofield’s addition will greatly enhance the judiciary’s diversity.”
President Obama and Senator Chuck Schumer of New York nominated Judge Schofield in April this year. “Their laudable action is a demonstration of their continued commitment to nominate well-qualified and diverse candidates to the federal bench,” adds Rozita Lee, former NaFFAA national vice chair and a member of the White House Commission on Asian Pacific American Islanders. “We are elated with her confirmation and our community is very proud to see a Filipino American achieve this honor and distinction.”
Adds Gloria T. Caoile, a former White House commissioner: “We need more role models like JudgeSchofield to inspire our young people to aspire for public service.”
Ms. Shofield is the only child of a Filipina mother who came to the United States during the post-World War II reconstruction of the Philippines. Mother and daughter remained in the Midwest after Ms. Shofield’s father left the family when she was only three years old. She grew up in a blue collar community and received a full tuition scholarship to attend Indiana University. She earned her law degree from the New York University Law School and in 2008 was named one of the nation’s 50 most influential minority lawyers by the National Law Journal. She served as Assistant United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York for four years before joining the firm of Debevoise & Plimpton LLP where she is currently serving as Of Counsel.

1. Sen. Daniel Inouye participates in a Filipino World War II veterans commemoration at the World War II Memorial in Washington, DC.

Community activists join Sen. Inouye in a victory celebration after Congress passed the Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation (FVEC) fund on Feb. 17, a provision in the 2009 economic stimulus package

The shortened URL of this press release is http://bit.ly/senatordanielinouye (senatordanielinouye).

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Bing Branigin, 202-361-1024
Jon Melegrito, 202-361-0296

Remembering Senator Daniel Inouye

Washington, D.C., December 17, 2012 — “Sen. Daniel Inouye never wavered in his life-long commitment to the cause of Filipino World War II veterans, which he championed with passion and persistence during his nearly 50 years of service in the U.S. Congress” says NaFFAA National Chairman Eduardo Navarra. “He was a strong advocate for justice on behalf of our veterans who were unfairly denied official recognition and rightful benefits as U.S. veterans when Congress passed the Rescission Act in 1946.”

Sen. Inouye passed away tonight at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center . He was 88.

“But his legacy in valiantly fighting for all veterans will always remain alive in the hearts and minds of all Americans,” adds Navarra. “His moral courage, vision and leadership inspired us to keep on waging the battle in the halls of Congress and in the public arena. It was Senator Inouye’s resolve, despite many setbacks and obstacles in the legislative struggle, that galvanized congressional support, ultimately leading to a long-awaited victory.”

On February 17, 2009, the U.S. Congress approved the Filipino Veterans Equity Compendation (FVEC) fund, a rider in The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, that once and for all restored the status of Filipino World War II veterans as U.S. veterans, and provided them with a one-time lump sum payment. The victory came only a few days before the 63rd anniversary of the Rescission Act.

But it was Sen. Inouye who led the effort over the years to craft the provision that achieved at least partial equity for Filipino World War II veterans. In the contentious debates around the issue of equity and compensation, Sen. Inouye always urged his colleagues to embrace the veterans’ struggle for justice as a matter of honor and dignity. “The historic vote in Capitol Hill was due in large measure to our champions in Congress who were determined to rectify an injustice,” said Greg Macabenta, former NaFFAA National Chair, who also acknowledged the hard work of another senator from Hawaii, Daniel Akaka, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and U.S. Rep. Bob Filner of San Diego.

Former NaFFAA National Vice Chair and White House Commissioner Rozita Lee, who was a constant presence in Capitol Hill during critical hearings and national lobby days, said Sen. Inouye was “truly a great champion for our causes. We will miss his voice, but we know that his fighting spirit lives. We are immensely grateful that we have had the opportunity to work with him in waging a very important campaign.”

Adds Gloria T. Caoile, former White House Commissioner and founder of FilAmVote NaFFAA: “He was a remarkable man who inspired us with his wisdom and integrity, steadfast devotion and drive. We are a richer community because he touched our lives with dignity and grace. Thank you, Senator Inouye!”

PHOTOS by Bing Cardenas Branigin

1. Sen. Daniel Inouye participates in a Filipino World War II veterans commemoration at the World War II Memorial in Washington, DC. http://naffaar8.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/naffaa-1-sen-daniel-inouye-participates-in-a-filipino-world-war-ii-veterans-commemoration-at-the-world-war-ii-memorial-in-washington-dc-by-bing-branigin-inouye-img_0278.jpg

2. Community activists join Sen. Inouye in a victory celebration after Congress passed the Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation (FVEC) fund on Feb. 17, a provision in the 2009 economic stimulus package. http://naffaar8.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/naffaa-community-activists-join-sen-inouye-in-a-victory-celebration-after-congress-passed-the-filipino-veterans-equity-compensation-fund-on-feb-17-a-provision-in-the-2009-economic-stimulus-package.jpg

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The National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) is a private, non-profit, non-partisan tax-exempt organization established in 1997 to promote the active participation of Filipino Americans in civic and national affairs. NaFFAA is composed of 12 regions with a national office in Washington, D.C. that monitors legislation and public policy issues affecting Filipino Americans. NaFFAA partners with local affiliate organizations and national coalitions in advocating for issues of common concern.

National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA)
1322 18th St NW, Washington DC 20036-1803
email: jonmele@aol.com
phone: 202.361.0296
web: http://www.naffaa.org

___

Please contact Bing Branigin at 202-361-1024 or Jon Melegrito at 202-361-0296 for more information. The shortened URL of this press release is http://bit.ly/senatordanielinouye (senatordanielinouye). Distributed by NaFFAA Region 8 Media Group. NaFFAANorCal@gmail.com, http://NaFFAAR8.com.

UPDATE on November 26, 2012

This just came in from Noor Ebne Lucero Esclamado via the NaFFAA Facebook page moderated by Lorna Dietz. Thank you to the PADRE BURGOS family and friends for sharing the slideshow of the necrological services for our dear friend and hero, Alex Esclamado. It would be a good idea to visit Padre Burgos during our sojourns to the Philippines and see what we can do with the leaders of tomorrow — who came in solidarity to celebrate the life of our Founding Chair.

The description on YouTube:

Published on Nov 22, 2012 by nesclamado2008
The vehicle carrying the remains of Alejandro Esclamado drove from Buenavista Chapel to Padre Burgos IFI Cathedral. While waiting for the funeral procession almost 500 hundred students of Saint James College of Padre Burgos lined up along the street of the school. The passing of the funeral procession the students offered flowers and sang the ALMA MATER song which Alejandro Esclamado composed almost 60 years ago. A confetti and flowers fell from the municipal building which the municipal officials pay their last respect to the man who helped his father the late Mayor Teodorico P. Esclamado,Sr. along with other fellow burgosanons in creating Padre Burgos an independent municipality.
The mass was led by his brother Bishop Vic Esclamado. Tributes and eulogies were given to the deceased leader. Speakers were Hon. Nadette Zulaika Boniel, Hon. Crispina Poblete, Hon. Ricardo E. Borces, Hon. Rosario Maglinte and Hon. Brian Gilles who sang The Imposible Dream one of Alex’s very favorite song. Daughter of the departed Grace Esclamado Groothoff made a thoughtful and inspirational response.
The Esclamado-Borces family would like to thank to those who attended the services, who came to the prayer and viewing the last 2 nights and for honoring the late Atty. Alejandro A. Esclamado.

Photographer: Maria Theresa Borces\ Dreamers Photography
Edited by: Noor Esclamado

November 16, 2012

Hello, everyone!

This is the first day, since November 6, Election Day, that I am able to sit down and grieve for Alex’s passing, unedited (yes, I have an editor).

From TOFA-NY and Hurricane Sandy, the Elections, Las Vegas (FPACC Business Summit, AyalaLand International Marketing, and my healthy coffee business), my sister’s Hercules City Council meeting, San Jose (honoring Senator Leland Yee at The Alavardo Project’s program), San Francisco (preparing for Kulinarya 2013), I have been like a gypsy traveller, sleeping in many people’s homes. This has been quite a journey for me in the past few weeks. Being linked and connected to many Filipino groups works for us in NaFFAA — especially when we seek fellow travellers in our shared purposes as ONE COMMUNITY. See: http://www.scribd.com/doc/95196375/ONE-COMMUNITY-A-Call-to-Action-in-NaFFAA-Region-8-Northern-CA

About Alex Esclamado:

Alex was more than a mentor to me. He was a very dear friend. When I greeted him on his birthday just before he and Luly left for the Philippines, he insisted that the three of us would have lunch at Max’s in Vallejo’s, and wanted to pick me up in Hercules. We all got busy — and we were not able to do it. It’s all right. It was the thought that counted.

I avoided meeting Alex for the longest time. His notoriety (the good and the bad things people say) preceded him. And I didn’t even know much about him — only that he was feisty — and an incredible and amazing warrior for the Filipino community. At the Y2K2 NaFFAA Empowerment Conference in San Jose, he dropped by our table — and I introduced myself to him. I remember that he looked at me, “Ah yes, Lorna Dietz,” as he shook my hands. Alex was quite charming and gracious!

What I did not know was Alex had this knack of scouting for talents in the community. I did not know that he was studying my work as I volunteered under the guidance of Ben Menor — and worked with Greg Macabenta at the first-ever 1st Global Filipino Networking Convention’s Media Conference.

What I recall is that during the 2003 NaFFAA Region 8 Summit in San Jose, I worked on his arrangements to represent NaFFAA National at this event. This was where we finally got to know each other, one-on-one. I had one of my mentees accompany me at that time, (currently) Lieutenant Colonel Ian Tudlong of the US Army, who is assigned in NATO, Europe — who also got to know Alex. Through the years — from Iraq to Afghanistan to Turkey — I make sure Ian meets my fellow Filipino advocates. It is all part of my succession planning strategy.

The Alex I met felt he had nothing left to share with his beloved Filipino community advocates. I innocently asked him, “What about me? I’m new. I want to know what to tell people about you and your work.”

It was during this night that I felt Alex empowered me with a responsibility, not a task. For the lack of a better term, I felt I was being “knighted” for a very special purpose — but that I couldn’t tell anyone until many years later. My memory is very clear about this moment.

Alex had stood up from his seat and looked at me. He said, “You know, Lorna, I am already old. I am ‘la-os.’ It’s your turn. Use your gift of public relations for the Filipino community.”

We both spoke Cebuano, our common bond. “La-os” means “out of fashion” or “useless,” depending on how you interpret the term.

I replied,”Thank you, Alex. You are definitely not la-os. You can share a lot with new people like me in the Filipino community.”

When I privately asked Ben Menor, who was my employer at that time, “What does Alex want from me?” — Ben replied, “He wants to share his stories with you. When he is gone, you’ll be one of those who will share these stories.”

Rozita Lee, NaFFAA National Vice Chair Emeritus, told me last week that everyone that Alex met got that same feeling of “being empowered” to do something greater, something more purposeful — to advance the Filipino community forward into an empowered future in mainstream America.

I was determined to prove to Alex that he was wrong — that he had a lot to share with emerging advocates like me. Thus, we made an arrangement to chat on our cellphones every day, not just to check in, but for me to learn something new. This was quite a commitment — and from October 2003 to January 2005, I listened to his stories. When Princess Emraida Kiram and I scheduled our phone calls to Alex so we could keep him amused, we told Luly about our friendly competition for Alex’s attention.

The Third Global Filipino Networking Convention In Cebu.was Alex Esclamado’s last major project in NaFFAA. At the last day of the convention, I learned later from Luly Esclamado how sick Alex really was at that time because he had brought his brother with him. Our friendship was tested that night — and friends such as Patrick Gregorio, Jenny Franco, Loida Nicolas Lewis, and Marlon Pecson were witnesses to how Alex and I were able to clarify our concerns with a dialogue at 2:00 am on a Sunday morning — and truly celebrate the success of the convention.

One of the stories that Alex shared with me applies to all of NaFFAA’s leaders — and our community’s advocates. He said, “During my time, I would make the decision — and let the others buy into my decision. Today, it is very democratic — and it is about CONSENSUS. Just remember this!”

This perspective is how I lead — I check, double-check, and triple-check. I even have the sage, Ben Menor, as our NaFFAA Region 8’s Facilitator and Adviser. In a way, since Ben is Alex’s adopted son and brother, I chose Ben to help us through all the changes that NaFFAA Region 8 is going through, especially in succession planning.

I learned from Alex Esclamado that we all have to study the people who are emerging as leaders in their own fields of endeavor. We have to become talent scouts. Then, as we study their works, we need to identify if these leaders are doing what they do for the higher good — and truly want to help other people to do the same — to achieve their highest potential as human beings. The last part — which is easier said than done — is to share your talents and skills in every new project. Every project begets new leaders and advocates.

In 2004, Alex, Luly, and I worked on the “Alex Esclamado Profile” for a couple of national and international leadership awards. I am glad that I had helped out in this project. I can now share it with the world. http://www.scribd.com/doc/112197839/In-Memoriam-Alex-Esclamado-History-Background-and-Achievements-as-of-2004

As I write this note to all of you, I invite you to come and celebrate the life of Alex Esclamado with us this November 17, 2012 — and come and meet his community children and partners — and give every one of his family members a tight embrace.

For everyone who wants to share their special story about Alex Esclamado, please email Jon Melegrito at JonMele@aol.com.

This Impossible Dream of Alex Esclamado — Filipino community empowerment — and what we call ONE COMMUNITY empowerment — is being manifested into real life.

I am very excited about the future — and the way Ben Menor says it: “Don’t wait! Alex never waited.”

Warmest regards,

Lorna Lardizabal Dietz
Regional Chair, NaFFAA Region 8

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Here is the USTREAM livestream archive of the Memorial Service for Alex Esclamado. Shortened URL is http://ustre.am/ceTg

Video streaming by Ustream,/center>

The video quality is not very good but the audio quality makes up for it.

]]> http://naffaar8.com/rest-in-peace-alex-esclamado-our-hero-our-friend/feed/ http://naffaar8.com/filam-vote-online-voter-registration-campaign-by-naffaar8com/ http://naffaar8.com/filam-vote-online-voter-registration-campaign-by-naffaar8com/#comments Fri, 20 Jul 2012 21:24:21 +0000 lorna http://naffaar8.com/?p=894

If you’ve moved or you haven’t registered yet,
this is a good place to go to.
 
It’s as easy as 1-2-3!
 
1. Fill out the online form.
2. Print out the completed form and sign it.
3. Mail it!

You can participate in this Online Voter Registration campaign!

HOW? (Please email NaFFAANorcal@gmail.com so you can get the HTML code. The information below shows the actual graphics for the HTML codes.)

1. Text link:

Just copy and paste this HTML code into a page on your site and you will create a link to your unique voter registration tool.

Register to Vote Here

2. Add a button:

This is similar to the first option. The code will create a graphical button or banner on your site that links to NaFFAAR8.com’s unique voter registration tool. Copy and paste the following:

3. Add a Widget button

Best option! Like the second option, this code will create a button or banner on a web page. But instead of taking your users to a separate website or page, the link will result in NaFFAAR8.com’s voter registration tool being displayed on top of the page users were viewing. That’s right, users will not leave your site.

NaFFAA Region 8’s FilAm Vote - Online Voter Registration Campaign in the USA

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NaFFAA FilAm Vote - Position Paper for 10th NaFFAA Empowerment Conference, Detroit, Michigan by Lorna Dietz

]]> http://naffaar8.com/filam-vote-online-voter-registration-campaign-by-naffaar8com/feed/ http://naffaar8.com/872/ http://naffaar8.com/872/#comments Thu, 24 May 2012 06:41:43 +0000 lorna http://naffaar8.com/?p=872



If you’ve moved or you haven’t registered yet,
this is a good place to go to.

Milpitas, CA at 1pm on May 27, 2012 - Santacruzan 2012 at Seasons Marketplace at Landess

Shortened URL of invitation:
http://scr.bi/KfymYh

WHAT: Santacruzan 2012
WHERE: Seasons Marketplace at Landess, Suite 113
1535 Landess Avenue, Milpitas, CA 95035
FEATURING: East Parking Lot - Food, Retail, and Business Bazaar
The First Fight of the Season, by Milpitas Boxing and Fitness
408 586-9800

Here is last year’s youtube video of the festivities. Santacruzan 2012 will be bigger, better, and just as entertaining as last year’s first celebration! http://youtu.be/NNf2fVdMJKI

DIRECTIONS:

680 South to Milpitas. Exit on Montague/Landess and take the Landess going East across Hwy 680. Make an immediate left on Dempsey Avenue (Burger King is on the corner) and immediate right on the first driveway that goes into the Mall parking.

The National Federation of Filipino American Associations, Region 8 - Santa Clara chapter (NaFFAA R8) is one of the co-sponsoring community partners of this event. Contact persons: Ben Menor, Chapter Chair and Clarence Madrilejos, Chapter Vice-Chair. You can also contact Seasons’ mall representative, Gabrielle Ramos, copied in this invitation.

NaFFAA Region 8’s Santa Clara Chapter is supporting this event as part of its cultural empowerment efforts in a Filipino-centric lifestyle mall.

__

For media inquiries and RSVPS, please contact Ben Menor at bmenor2010@gmail.com.

MAY 27, 2012 SANTACRUZAN
AT SEASONS MARKETPLACE AT LANDESS, MILPITAS

The Santacruzan started out as a spiritually-based activity in the Philippines. It was inevitable that faith-based traditions of Filipino immigrants found a niche among the celebrations in their communities.

For instance, Ben Menor, NaFFAA Region 8’s Santa Clara Chapter chair, explained that as a high school teacher and gang specialist for many years, youth participation in these kinds of events helped connect them to the adults in the community as well as prevent them from engaging in street-related or gang activities. He said, “Religion and faith-based activities serve as an important part of keeping our community connected and staying in touch with our culture. By having the Santacruzan being shared publicly, it allows the general public to have a better understanding of the Filipino culture.”

The Hermano Mayor will be Rey D. Tancinco and the Hermana Mayor will be Lourdes “Lou” Santos Tancinco. The Honor Guard will be provided by the Knights of Columbus from St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Union City. Milpitas Mayor Jose Esteves will welcome everyone as well as participate in the Santacruzan Procession. Allison Drumm, a Union City-based youth leader, will be this year’s Reyna Elena. The Philippine Consulate General’s representatives will also be there. Father Geoffrey’s Angels Dancers will support Our Mother of Perpetual Help Choir from the St. James the Apostle Catholic Church, a Fremont-based community headed by Susan “Sansu” Ramsey Johnson, the choir director. Rey Tancinco, Lou Tancinco, Ben Acorda, and Ro Khanna are among the sponsors who are helping make the 2012 Santacruzan successful and inclusive for everyone. NaFFAA Region 8 Santa Clara Chapter is the event’s community partner. The 2012 Santacruzan is sponsored and organized by Seasons Marketplace at Landess.

# # #

ABOUT THIS YEAR’S MARIA ELENA

This year’s Reyna Elena is Allison Nicole Drumm, the daughter of Derick andLyn Drumm. She is 17 years old and is attending James Logan High School. Allison is currently ASB Vice President, half way through the school year she has been promoted to ASB President and will hold the position as ASB President next year. She has been an active member of the arts; dancing (Jazz, Belly Dancing, Hula/Tahitian, Ballroom, and Filipino Folk Dance) since she was 3 and playing the clarinet since she was 11. She is the co-founder and president of the Breast Cancer Awareness Association at JLHS, wanting to seek out a community to all who have been affected by breast cancer and has also been apart of the James Logan Marching Band throughouther high school career. She has been accepted into an organization, GlobalGlimpse, who she will be traveling with to Nicaragua to educate young Nicaraguans and to better the community this summer. She is a member ofUnion City’s St. Anne’s Emmaus group, which teaches and guides the youth a successful path in their faith formation. She plans on attending a privatecollege after high school, majoring in aerospace engineering to become an astrophysicist, in hopes of becoming an astronaut.

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Thank you to the Santacruzan 2012 participants!

Our Sagalas:

Reyna Banderada– Nazmyn Flores
Reyna Mora– Denise Tungol
Reyna Fe– Francesca Armstrong
Reyna Esperanza– Joselle Marie Santillan
Reyna Caridad– Regina Calamug
Reyna Abogada– Heather Moore
Reyna Sentenciada– Kristina Solomita
Reyna Justicia– Meriel Ferrer
Reyna Judith– Patricia Uychoco
Reyna Sheba– Chelsy Baculi
Reyna Esther– Sheryll Nicolas
Veronica– Diana Coria
Ave Maria
A– Troy Asia
V– Madeline Montoya
E– Jorelle Babida
M– Eunice Maracha
A– Sharina Castillo
R– Sharliz Castillo
I= Melissa Ferrer
A– Lia Babida
Mary of Magdala– Mary Rose Bautista
Mary, Mother of Christ– Mary Grace Bautista
Mary, Mother of James– Mary Joyce Bautista
Divina Pastora– Csarina Tabor
Reina de Las Estrellas– Angela Roque
Rosa Mystica– Angelika Roque
Angels: Blake Liam Langa and Callie Solis
Angels: Aramina Ziazadeh and Krizlhen Wisco
Reyna de las Propertas– Trish Maxelle
Angels: Amber Moore and Katherine Moore
Reyna del Cielo– Tiffany Alcantara
Angels: Josie Velasco and Alexandra Bautista
Reyna de las Virgines– Alexandra Dreshler
Escort: Julius Santos
Angels: Katlyn Calugan
Reya de las Flores– Kimberly Solomita
Angels: Alana Mendoza
Reyna Elena– Allison Drumm
Escort: Jason Roldan
Emperor Constantine: Mark Solomita
Angels: Abigail Adame and Anica Adame
Arc Bearers: Ian Mangulabnan and Eddieson Adres

___

POST-EVENT PRESS RELEASE
NaFFAA Region 8 Media Group
Connecting Media and Community

ONE COMMUNITY AT SANTACRUZAN 2012,
SEASONS MARKETPLACE AT LANDESS

May 29, 2012, Milpitas, CA — Room 113 of the Filipino “lifestyle center” in Silicon Valley, a.k.a. Seasons Marketplace at Landess at 1535 Landess Avenue, Milpitas, California, was buzzing with activity at noontime on Sunday, May 27, as little girls dressed up as angels, accompanied by the various “reynas” (queens) and their escorts and arc bearers, prepared for a hectic afternoon program. This was a youth affair where elegance and good manners took center stage as the participants learned about a Filipino spiritually-based tradition in an inclusive cultural community event.

According to a brief description on the internet, written by Point Cebu Arts & Culture: “The festival comes from a religious origin, a commemoration of the finding of the Holy Cross by Saint Helena and Constantine. Young ladies dress up in lavish gowns of lace and beads and parade on the streets, together with their escorts, in such gala wear. They walk elegantly beneath arches of flowers in a procession while throngs of people take part, holding candles and torches as they sing songs of praise.”

When Filipino immigrants brought this May tradition to their new homes worldwide, the Santacruzan practice eventually became a cultural practice for “building one community” and a reminder of some Philippine hometown traditions. Children and young adults build self-confidence and social skills in a family activity.

The first part of the festivities was focused on celebrating the second anniversary of Seasons Marketplace at Landess. Ria Recinto, Santacruzan 2011’s Reyna Elena, gave a stunning performance in dance and gymnastics — showcasing her 4-time champion status and using ribbons as her props, to an appreciative crowd.

As parents and shoppers took photos and videos during the Santacruzan Procession at the mall’s central walkways, Susan “Sansu” Ramsey Johnson took time out from her upcoming “The Sansu Show” production schedule (GMA Pinoy TV) by directing a choir composed of members from Our Mother of Perpetual Help Choir at St. James the Apostle Catholic Church (Fremont) and Our Lady of Peace Church and Shrine (Santa Clara). In a recent San Jose-based Santacruzan, Sansu Ramsey was acknowledged as the first Filipina-Black American Reyna de las Flores.

The Tancinco Law Offices, aside from being one of the Santacruzan 2012’s merchant sponsors, was represented by Attorney Rey D. Tancinco, the Hermano Mayor, and his spouse, Attorney Lourdes “Lou” Santos Tancinco, the Hermana Mayor. Attorney Lou confessed that this was her first time to wear a tiara, creating a different persona from her “Pusong Pinoy sa Amerika” hosting duties (GMA Pinoy TV).

Ben Menor, NaFFAA Region 8’s Santa Clara County Chair, hosted the program together with youth co-hosts, Ria Recinto, 2011 Santacruzan’s Reyna Elena, and Justin Smaby.

Allison Nicole Drumm, the 2012 Santacruzan’s Reyna Elena, came all the way from Union City, and was escorted by Jason Roldan. Mark Solomita was this year’s Emperor Constantine.

The organizers of the Santacruzan 2012 acknowledge the spirit of volunteerism of its Santacruzan procession’s participants, and thank them for their support, namely:

SAGALAS/REYNAS – Nazmyn Flores (Reyna Banderada), Denise Tungol (Reyna Mora), Francesca Armstrong (Reyna Fe), Joselle Marie Santillan (Reyna Esperanza), Regina Calamug (Reyna Caridad), Heather Moore (Reyna Abogada), Kristina Solomita (Reyna Sentenciada), Meriel Ferrer (Reyna Justicia), Patricia Uychoco (Reyna Judith), Chelsy Baculi (Reyna Sheba), Sheryll Nicolas (Reyna Esther), and Diana Coria (Veronica). Csarina Tabor (Divina Pastora), Angela Roque (Reina de las Estrellas), Angelika Roque (Rosa Mystica), Trish Maxelle (Reyna de las Propertas), Tiffany Alcantara (Reyna del Cielo), Alexandra Dreshler (Reyna de las Virgines), and Kimberly Solomita (Reyna de las Flores).

AVE MARIA – Troy Asia (A), Madeline Montoya (V), Jorelle Babida (E), Eunice Maracha (M), Sharina Castillo (A), Sharliz Castillo (R ), Melissa Ferrer (I), and Lia Babida (A).

TRES MARIAS – Mary Rose Bautista (Mary of Magdala), Mary Grace Bautista (Mary, Mother of Christ), and Mary Joyce Bautista (Mary, Mother of James)

ESCORTS – Julius Santos and Jason Roldan.

ANGELS – Blake Liam Langa and Callie Solis; Aramina Ziazadeh and Krizlhen Wisco; Amber Moore and Katherine Moore; Josie Velasco and Alexandra Bautista; Katlyn Calugan; Alana Mendoza; Abigail Adame and Anica Adame.

The Santacruzan 2012 at Seasons Marketplace at Landess’s success was due to the volunteers and sponsors who supported the event.

Special thanks to: Consul Leah Rodriguez (Philippine Consulate General of San Francisco), Mayor Jose Esteves (City of Milpitas), Father Ronnie Carreon, Father Geoffrey Baraan (St. Anne Catholic Church), Mr. and Mrs. Victor Garcia (Santacruzan Organizers), Mr. Ben Menor (Community Relations Consultant and Host), Mr. Tony Tongson (Hair Couture Salon), Ms. Ria Recinto, 2011 Reyna Elena and this year’s Host with Mr. Justin Smaby (Co-Host), Mr. and Mrs. John Lucero (Arcs Sponsor), Mr. and Mrs. Augusto Uyenco (Virgin Mary Sponsor), Mr. Sal Jumawan (Balloonist), Mr. Ken Bendanillo (Choreographer), Ms. Susan Ramsey (Our Mother of Perpetual Help Choir), Ms. Lorna Dietz (Public Relations), Mr. Bradford Adkins (Public Relations), Participants, Parents, Volunteers headed by Liberty Lizardo, and Performers.

Among the volunteers in the buffet services for Santacruzan 2012, the organizers acknowledge Joe Manarang and Chef Romy Sembrano for the efficient management of donations and table arrangements. Special thanks to Ben Menor for providing Healthy Coffee vending-type drinks.

SPONSORS – Mr. Ben Acorda (Heavenly Ice Cream) and Ro Khanna.

MERCHANT SPONSORS – Tancinco Law Offices, ABS-CBN The Filipino Channel, Seafood City Supermarket, Max’s of Manila, Chowking, Goldilocks, Valerio’s Tropical Bakery, Filipino Desserts Plus, The Coffee Adventure Co., Ideal Vision Center, and Hair Couture.

The National Federation of Filipino American Associations-Region 8 (Northern California), Santa Clara chapter, is the Santacruzan 2012’s Community Partner.

Coordinating the event was Gabrielle Ramos, Seasons Marketplace at Landess’s Operations Assistant. Special thanks to Dinna Bayangos, AyalaFil US Co Inc.’s Director/CEO, for the mall’s management team’s support in the community celebration.

# # #

Post-Event Press Release About Santacruzan 2012, Seasons Marketplace at Landess, Milpitas, CA

]]> http://naffaar8.com/872/feed/ http://naffaar8.com/youre-invited-on-may-24-2012-apapa-1st-statewide-api-heritage-celebration-hosted-by-san-francisco-mayor-edwin-lee/ http://naffaar8.com/youre-invited-on-may-24-2012-apapa-1st-statewide-api-heritage-celebration-hosted-by-san-francisco-mayor-edwin-lee/#comments Thu, 24 May 2012 06:22:16 +0000 lorna http://naffaar8.com/?p=867

You’re invited on May 24, 2012: APAPA 1st Statewide API Heritage Celebration hosted by SF Mayor Edwin Lee

The National Federation of Filipino American Associations-Region 8 (Northern CA) or NaFFAA Region 8 is a community partner of the Asian Pacific Islander American Public Affairs Association (APAPA). According to Joel Wong of APAPA-BAC, “We are expecting a great turn out and will be raffling away four Southwest Airline Tickets worth $500 each. There will be entertainment and an ethnic dinner catered by Moonstar Restaurant.”

NaFFAA Region 8 is very grateful to the dedication of Charito Benipayo for introducing us to APAPA and for Ben Menor, for enhancing Tita Charito’s efforts in our APAPA-NaFFAA community partnership efforts.

We hope that everyone turns out and celebrates the true meaning of ONE COMMUNITY!

We will expect to see many of our Filipino American friends!

WHEN: May 24, 2012
WHAT TIME: 5:30pm to 8:30pm
WHERE: San Francisco City Hall, 1 Carlton B. Goodlet Place, San Francisco, CA 94102
FREE Admission, Open to the Public

In the meantime, We can make the Filipino American Vote rock!!!

ONE COMMUNITY! Help us get three Filipino Americans elected to the California State Assembly! Please forward to your families and friends. Meet some of our ONE COMMUNITY role models!

Rob Bonta
Vice-Mayor of Alameda, CA, http://www.robbonta.com

Dr. Jennifer Ong
Commissioner, Alameda County Commission on the
Status of Women, http://drjenniferong.org

Chris Mateo
Vice-Mayor of Lathrop, CA, http://chrismateo.com

Thank you, and see you there!

Warmest regards,

Lorna
Lorna Dietz, NaFFAA R8 Chair (for Identification Purposes only!)
NaFFAANorcal@gmail.com

P.S. The shortened URL for the invite is http://scr.bi/KCg7KN

Lorna Dietz, NaFFAA R8 Chair; Genevieve Jopanda, NaFFAA R8 Vice Chair; Clarence Madrilejos, NaFFAA R8 Youth Chair; Tina Novero, NaFFAA R8 Secretary; Jinni Mabalot Bartolome, NaFFAA R8 Treasurer; Jose Pecho, NaFFAA R8 Chair Emeritus; Ben Menor, NaFFAA R8 Strategic Facilitator & Adviser and NaFFAA R8 Santa Clara County Chair; Charito Benipayo, NaFFAA R8 Alameda County Chair & NaFFAA R8 Adviser; Rudy Asercion, NaFFAA R8 San Francisco Chapter Chair; Rodel Rodis, Esq., NaFFAA R8 Adviser & NaFFAA National Legal Counsel

From the NaFFAA Region 8 Media Group
http://NaFFAAR8.com

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