PAGE 2 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 16-28, 2015
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 16-28, 2015 • PAGE 3
By MARY LLANOS CORDERO
serving The community since 1987 Publisher Mary Llanos Cordero Managing Editor Bennette Espineli Misalucha Director of Design Armando Dela Cruz Busmente Production Manager Alice Llanos Busmente Assistant Editor Radiant Cordero Copy Editor Danielle Evangelista Photographers/Graphics Brandon dela Cruz Noah Felipe Gabe de Lis0o Jeff Orig James Ramos COLUMNISTS Edna Alikpala Rhoda Yabez Alvarez, Esq. Jesse Bacon II Nancy Bernal Cesar Bonilla Alice Llanos Busmente Anabel Gasmen Cabebe Dr. Rickie Camara Dr. Patricia Halagao ZenyMuyot Angie Santiago Perfecto Yasay Jr. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Conrad Abuel Ric Agnes Paul Alimbuyao Ria Baldevia Eriza Bareng Marnelli Joy Basilio Bernie Caalim Randy Cortez Radiant Cordero Mary Cruzada Jaime de Jesus Brandon dela Cruz Christian Evangelista Imelda Gasmen Veronika Geronimo Leo Gozar Ben Gutierrez Kathleen Lee Carmela Minaya Gladys Quinto Marrone Gladys Menor John Pagaragan Paola Rodelas Judy Relosimon Sandra Sagisi Nicole Velasco Jason Ubay MichiVillaruz Neighbor Island Bureau Maui Kit Zulueta Jeremy Zane Big Island Mil Asuncion Jane Clement Dr. Margarita Hopkins Kauai Virgie Cruzada Liza Trinidad Marynell Valenzuela ADVERTISING SALES MarivicAldaya Mary Cordero Annabel Cabebe Florence Tan McCollom Lydia Kamiya Joni Redick-Yundt Rudy Bautista Marynel Valenzuela CIRCULATION Florence Tan (Oahu) Ron Oshiro(Leeward Oahu) David Cordero (Maui) Marynel Valenzuela (Kauai) Milli Asuncion (Big Island) Legal Counsel Alfredo Evangelista, Esq. THE FIL-AM COURIER is published twice a month by OAHU RELOCATION SERVICES located at 2221 Liliha St. Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
Opinions expressed by the columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Fil-Am Courier. Publisher reserves the right to edit letters to the editor and other material submitted. Reproduction of material and ads appearing in the Fil-Am courier is forbidden without written permission. All photos submitted become the property of the Fil-Am Courier.
Telephone: 808.595.8787 Facsimile: 808.595.6883 E-Mail: courier@lava.net www.filamcourier.net m
e
m
b
e
HFAMC
r
Federation of Filipino American Media Associations of the United States and Canada
FFAMAS
Hawaii Filipino American Media Council All rights reserved printed in the u.s.a ©
We hope you had a beautiful and blessed Valentine’s day with your loved ones. Our last issue focused on three great love stories shared by three couples who recently got engaged and got married. We received rave reviews and positive feedback wherein our readers stated t h e s t o r i e s a r e h e a r twarming, special and funny, something they could all relate and identify with their own. N o t w o Va l e n t i n e ’s stories are alike. Each one is special, still there’s an inspiration to be found in the way couples meet and realize they will be weaving their lives together. Well dear readers, we’re not through yet! Inside this issue, we have two more couples who shared their romantic stories---One couple has been married for over two decades. Larry and Jennifer Ordonez are both actively involved in the community for many years. Their love story is endearing and inspirational. It’s truly a happily ever after story for
their love continues to grow each day even if they’ve been married for 27 years. The second couple are Ashley Retutal and Michael Tan, who are newlyweds. They recently tied the knot in October 2014. The couple met at Zippy’s—thanks to their friend who introduced them to each other. Both Michael and Ashley were friends for 6 years before they got engaged. Read more inside the pages on how Michael proposed to the love of his life! For our cover story, we are happy to feature Senator Donna Mercado Kim who is the current President of the Senate. With the State Legislature in session, it’s always interesting to know and understand the leadership at the helm. It may be noted that Donna is the second Filipino American to have emerged in that leadership role. The first Senate President of Filipino Ancestry was Bobby Bunda. As the 13th President of the Hawaii Senate, Donna brings a wealth of experience in the political arena. Elected
to the Senate in 2000, she has chaired the committee on Tourism, the Committee on Ways and Means, the Special Committee on A c c o u n t a b i l i ty a n d t h e Task Force on Reinventing Government. Donna is a hands-on leader who makes sure the job gets done. When she was chair for the Task Force on Reinventing Government, she searched for ways to eliminate government waste and save money without cutting care services. She has focused on important issues such as fiscal accountability by examining and investigating mis-management practices, contracting procedures and wasteful spending. Before we conclude, we would like to invite the public to the 1st Annual Great Malunggay Festival a n d Pa ra d e a n d i s s e t on February 21, 2015 at the Leeward Community College. The festival and parade is to celebrate the incredible and ubiquitous malunggay tree plant which grows
prominently in many Filipino yards. It serves as a symbol that a Filipino family lives there because they have a malunggay tree growing in their backyard. Yes, this miracle tree is a super food like spirulina and chlorella which offers many health benefits to people who have asthma, high blood pressure, inflammation, gastro-intestinal disorders and high cholesterol. It is packed with antioxidants, Vitamin A, C, protein, iron, potassium and calcium. The festival will feature a “Jam Like Bruno” sing and dance contest, parade, door prizes, entertainment, and crafts and vendor booths. Not to mention, there’ll be food, fun and friends so come out and enjoy the all day celebration! Please read details inside this issue. By the way, I will be taking a respite from writing my Publisher’s Note in the next coming months as I will be preoccupied with tax filing and focusing on our real estate business. In the meantime, I have asked our assistant editor Radiant Cordero to step up and she will be writing her own Assistant Editor’s Note starting with the March 16th issue. Don’t worry. It will not be a permanent move; but it will be a great learning opportunity for Radiant, who belongs to the second generation of our writers. Please kindly embrace her as she takes this step, albeit temporarily, toward her progression. We sincerely thank you for your continued support all these years. We hope you continue reading the Courier as your choice publication.
Aloha for now!
PAGE 4 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 16-28, 2015
By Bennette Espineli Misalucha
Fil-Am Courier Managing Editor
Our cover....
Our beautiful cover photo was taken inside the Hawaii Senate Chambers at the State Capitol by noted photographer Jeff Orig. Cover concept by Noah Felipe of OrigMedia. Jeff and Noah can both be reached at www.origmedia.com or by calling (808) 447-9559.
Photo credit: Hawaii State Capitol Archive
The articulate, polished politician was in full view at the 2015 Opening Day ceremony at the Hawaii State Legislature as she mapped out an ambitious list of priorities. Senate President Donna Mercado Kim was obviously in her element that day, definitely a leader in control as she pounded the gavel, signaling the start of this year’s legislative session. Later that afternoon, as she greeted visitors at her
office, an air of confidence marked her interactions and she appeared elegant, gracious and hospitable, as to the manner born. But do not let that pretty face and friendly demeanor fool you. As some people who have gotten her ire can attest, there is a toughness inside the Senate President that can be unleashed if need be. It does not come out often, but there is no mistaking, it’s there. And one would be wise to be aware of it.
It’s a toughness that some say may be partly attributed to her growing up poor in the neighborhood of Kalihi-Palama, a fact that she is proud to acknowledge at every opportunity. For you see, to know Donna Mercado Kim is to know Ka l i h i - Pa l a m a . Ka l i h i Palama was the touchstone that nurtured her spirit and first gave her a reason to hope for greatness.
EARLY CHILDHOOD Donna Mercado Kim was the middle child amongst f i ve k i d s , b o r n t o L i l y Mercado and Andrew Young Ho Kim. The family lived in a run-down family complex in Kalihi. Her father worked in construction and mother was a housewife. The living conditions in the family home were dismal: “We had no running water inside the house and we had two bedrooms for six people. My grandparents lived in one of the units nearby; my uncle lived below us. I would lie awake at night and I could hear the rats scurrying in our ceiling.” “Every year, my mom would take my sisters and me to Nicholas Dress shop and she would put five dresses for each girl on layaway and my mom would pay slowly for one year. Those dresses had to last us for the entire schoolyear. We had to keep them clean, and we had a schedule of when to wear them.” “My parents were strict, because with four girls, I guess they had to be. You get a licking if you do not come home on time. I had
responsibilities even when I was young. I took care of my two younger siblings.” Although money was tight, the happy and supportive environment made up for the hardships.”I was surrounded by aunties and uncles and cousins. And of course, there was my Filipino grandma and grandpa who cooked Filipino food and made sure we were bathed and clothed and fed. Despite our financial constraints, there was always food on the table. My grandpa Atienza cooked adobo all the time.” When the family situation became a little much, Mercado Kim sought solace at the Palama Settlement Center. “From the time I was six years old, the Center was my second home. I learned to dance hula there. That love for hula allowed me to pursue learning with the renowned Kumu Hula Auntie Maiki from the 9 th grade until I graduated from high school.” In explaining where she finds the motivation to push forward: “My family had four girls and one boy. I was the proverbial middle
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 16-28, 2015 • PAGE 5
Donna with her mom, dad and siblings
While campaigning with son Micah during one of her City Council races
child, always trying to excel because I felt that was the only way to get attention from everyone else,” she laughingly admitted. One of her saddest memories, however,involved her high school graduation. “My family could not afford all the expenses related to my graduation ceremonies, so I chose not to walk. I totally regretted it. Graduation is such an important milestone.” When it was time to go to college, she went for two years to the University of Hawaii and was selected Homecoming Queen. She surprised everyone though when she decided to go out of state to finish her degree. It was unheard of, in her family. “I just wanted to do it on my own. I chose to go to Seattle. I had no friends, no family there. That is how I discovered the wonderful support system of the sororities.” Armed with a degree from Washington State University, she returned to Hawaii where she started to work at a variety of jobs, including being a cocktail wa i t r e s s , a f r o n t d e s k clerk at Hilton Hawaiian Village, a flight attendant, a sales representative for Motorola and serving as the recreations director for Barbers Point Naval Air Station.
One of her most successful stints was running her own modeling agency and school at the Century Center in Waikiki. She remains particularly grateful to businessman Bob Allen who saw her potential and allowed her to build that school from scratch. It was apparent that Mercado Kim seemed to have a knack for excelling at her jobs, but as she moved from one job to the next, somehow, she knew these jobs were not her life’s calling. “I think at the back of my mind, although I did well, I started to think about my future. I had this notion that somehow, I would like to make a difference,” she opined. That “aha” moment, that moment of truth when she knew she wanted to go into politics, came like a bolt of lightning, via a radio interview. “I was then doing my own business, ‘Models of the Century’, and doing pageant training, when I was listening to the radio and heard some acquaintances being interviewed. They were then entering politics, and somehow, something clicked in my head. “That’s it,I told myself, politics is what I want to do. And hey, if they can do it, I think I can too.”
FILIPINO ROOTS. POLITICAL ROOTS. M e r c a d o K i m wa xe s strong about her Filipino heritage. “My mom was Miss Hawaii Filipina 1946. My Filipino roots came from my maternal Grandfather Juan Mercado. Unfortunately, he died young, and so my grandmother married my grandfather’s best friend Bartolome Atienza, and this
was the grandpa who I grew up with.” “My grandpa was very political. He was active in the union and loved to discourse with people at Aala Park. He used to say that Democrats were for the common people, and since I considered myself ‘working people’, I grew up always thinking of myself as a Democrat.”
“But in my early years, I was not interested in politics, even in student government. I was more active as a song leader and as a member of the Liberty House HiBoard, which was a big deal back then,” she smiled at the recollection. Once she decided to run for office though,there was no hurdle too big for Mercado Kim to overcome.
PAGE 6 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 16-28, 2015
“I was told that I was too late to run for office that year; wait until the next political cycle. It was July 20th and the primary race was in September. I had to chaperone the Junior Miss to the Mainland for her competition that year, so it left me with even less time to campaign.” “I also wanted to run from my home town of Kalihi-Palama, but I was no longer living there, so I ran from Salt Lake instead. It was a family affair with my brother and Mary Ann Chang as my campaign managers. We had a shoe string budget since I only raised $5000. I walked that district, I knocked on every door. I had no big supporters but I knew marketing and sales,” she recalled. It was a tough race against an incumbent who had represented the district for a long time. After trailing behind for the first two printouts, she won. By 29 votes. “ E a r l i e r t h a t d a y , I had gone to church at St. Filomena’s and lit a candle. I prayed earnestly. I asked God that if it was my calling, to please let me win. I remember sign-waving until 5:20 pm then I proceeded to our little party. That was the only time that I gave up sign-waving early. Now I never leave my sign- waving post until the polls close. In my mind, I do not leave anything to chance. What if I could convince that last voter to come my way?” That election changed her life and set her off to her life’s work. In 1984, she won a seat at the City Council where she stayed until 2000. She admits that it was as Chair of the Zoning Committee where she found her fulfillment. “I became well versed in the development process. I worked hard and studied the issues. When I look back, I felt I made a difference as we strove for a more balanced
approach to development.” One of the most important pieces to emerge from that era was the “interim development control” bill which put a moratorium on development in the Salt Lake and Red Hill districts. “We were successful in getting the developers to come to the table, provide some community amenities like a park, and also build a municipal parking lot which remains a blessing for many residents of the area since it provide an option to street parking.” After 14 years at the Council, Mercado Kim then ran for the State Senate in 2000, representing the 14th Senatorial district. Now approaching her fifteenth ye a r, s h e c o n t i n u e s t o garner strong support from her constituents even as she chaired important committees such as Tourism, Special Committee on Accountability, and Ways and Means over the years. When asked about the highlight of her years at the Senate, she points to the revamping of the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since the organization is now “highly functioning and equipped to meet the demands of our #1 economic driver.” When then Senate President Shan Tsutsui was appointed as Lt. Governor in 2012, it created an opportunity for a reorganization and Mercado Kim was selected as Senate President. She had some on-the-job training, having served as Vice President during two periods: 20032206 and 2011-2013. Last year, as the seat for Congressional District 1 opened up, she explored her options and threw her name into the ring. Initially a front runner, she lost in the primary to State Representative Mark Takai. “It was not in the cards. I am grateful to have gone through that process. Never say never, but I think that’s
As UH Homecoming Queen
it. I like what I do. I am honored to represent my district. I am honored to be Senate President. I think I know this job better than anyone else. I continue to strive to be better.So, I think I will stay here.” To d ay, t h e d i vo r c e d politician beams with pride as shares that her greatest joy comes from being a mother. Micah Aiu, 25, graduated from La Salle College in Boston as summa cum laude, and is now attending law school at the William S. Richardson School of Law. Mercado Kim stays grounded by staying connected to family and friends. She visits her mom on weekends (her father has since died) to bring her food and she gets together with her siblings during special occasions. How has your personal background impacted your politics? I think that because I came from humble beginnings, I am definitely prudent when it comes to spending. I am very mindful that our decisions affect people’s livelihood. Every penny matters. I feel that sense of accountability. I know people have called me tough. I think that’s
Donna’s mom, the former Lily Mercado, who was Miss Hawaii Filipina 1946
just courage manifesting itself. It’s a combination of growing up in a tough neighborhood and having to stand up for yourself because no one is giving it to you on a silver platter. I have always maintained my independence. When I first ran, I ran with no big endorsements. I was able to stay that way. I never felt that I owed anyone. I guess I never felt that I had to keep quiet because I needed this job. I always felt I had options in the private sector, if this gig did not pan out. So even when making tough decisions, I have always voted with my conscience. I never felt that my values were being compromised. You are known amongst legislators for doing your homework. What is your process of doing research? I read and talk to people. I remember when I was at the City Council, I had to pore over tons of old Committee reports. I contacted the prior players and we were able to piece the pieces together. All in all, I think we need to use common sense. How do you exercise leadership at the Senate? First of all, I did not aspire to be Senate President. When I was Vice President to Senate President Bobby Bunda, he would talk about that possibility for me, but I always brushed it off. I think being in a leadership role takes a lot out of you. When you step up to that responsibility, you give up your district’s needs. The needs of the whole body consumes you. And you strive for consensus, even if
you personally do not agree. I truly enjoy committee work. I love getting mired in details. So when I was first approached to be Senate President, I had to think twice. The first year was admittedly rough. I inherited a lot of the committee assignments and I had to work extra hard. However, this time, I had a hand in the selection of the committees. There are 13 members in my coalition and we have a plan, a strategy. It’s very different from last time. I feel more confident we can have an impact this session. What do you think of the Philippines? Love going there! I have been to the Philippines four times. I love Makati, Greenhills and the cities. I have tried to connect with my relatives but because my grandfathers both died without leaving names of relatives in the Philippines, I have never been able to connect. I have even tried ancestry.com but no luck. What do you do for fun? I used to golf and I was actually getting good at it. Nowadays, I don’t have time. I also use to be in a bowling league. Not anymore. I guess I like relaxing with friends. What is your advice to young people? Get involved in politics. Participate in the process. I wished I had started earlier. I want to say to them, if I can do it, so can you.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 16-28, 2015 • PAGE 7
Senator Mercado Kim’s Staff and their Philippine Connections:
Going down memory lane: the apartment where Donna grew up in Kalihi-Palama
Lisa Vargas – 2 nd generation (Office Manager) Maternal grandfather (Bicera/Brioso) migrated from the Philippines to work in the plantations. He married a Hawaiian woman and together raised eight children. Lisa and her siblings were raised here in Hawaii. Nancy Bernal – 1st generation (Legislative Aide) Mother and father (Manzano/Bernal family) were both born in the Philippines, migrated to Hawaii as adults. They met, got married, and had children that they raised here in Hawaii. Cecile Yasay – immigrant (Community Liaison) Both parents (Tirona/Joaquin) are from the Philippines - Cavite and Bulacan respectively. Cecile became an immigrant after resigning from the United Nations in New York where she worked for many years.
Lynette Stoeck – 1st generation (Assistant Office Manager) Both parents were from the Philippines (Siquijor and Cebu). Her father’s family migrated here when he was 3 years old. Her mother was born here. They met, married and raised their children here in Hawaii. BJ Ramos – immigrant (Session Help/ Legislative Aide) Both parents were from the Philippines (Vigan, La Union, and Pangasinan). BJ was born in the Philippines and the family migrated to Seattle, Washington, when he was a baby. They also have two unpaid volunteers in this office and one is of Filipino decent. Sam Callejo – 2nd generation (Volunteer) Sam’s father migrated to Hawaii when he was older. He married a Korean woman. Sam and his siblings were all born and raised here.
PAGE 8 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 16-28, 2015
By radiant cordero
The 2015 Session for the Hawai‘i State Legislature i s w e l l u n d e r w a y. A s the population of people who identify themselves as Filipino increases in our state, it is without question that the numbers of representation in the legislative systems in Hawai‘i should increase too. There are many Filipino-Americans who have been elected to various positions in city and state offices, and they have continuously played active roles in providing assistance to the issues and concerns of Filipinos in the state. In this issue, we take a look at the state legislators of Filipino ancestry in both the State Senate and State House of Representatives who will continue to fight and look out for the best interests of Filipinos, their constituents, and the entire state of Hawai‘i as a whole.
Filipino-Americans in the Senate Donovan Dela Cruz
Senate District 22 (Mililani Mauka, Waipi’o Acres, Wheeler, Wahiawa, Whitmore Villages, portion of Poamoho) Hawai‘i State Capitol Room 202 • Phone: 808-5866090; Email: sendelacruz@ capitol. hawaii.gov
Donovan Dela Cruz grew up in Wahiawa and graduated from Leilehua High School in 1991. He then went on to the University of Oregon where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies. He is currently the Director of
Communications at WCIT Architects. He used to be the Director of Marketing at Watermark Publishing, an Account Supervisor at Stryker Weiner, & Yokota Public Relations, an Account Executive at McNeil Wilson Communications, and a Public Relations Coordinator at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Along with his professional and political experience, he also volunteers his time and participates in community service with the following: Leilehua High School Education Foundation as President, Advisory Council of Leeward Community
C o l l e g e a s a m e m b e r, Leeward Community College Culinary Institute Board as a member, Filipino Chamber of Commerce (where he was Vice-President from 2001-2002), Wahiawa Lions Club as a member, and Our Lady of Sorrows Parish as a member. In the Hawai‘i State Senate, Senator Dela Cruz is the Chair of the Committee on Government Operations. He is also a member of the following committees: Economic Development, Ways and Means, Education and Transportation. Will Espero
Senate District 19 (‘Ewa Beach, Ocean Pointe, ‘Ewa by Gentry, Iroquois Point, portion of ‘Ewa Villages) Hawai‘i State Capitol, Room 206 • Phone: 808-586-6360; Email: senespero@capitol. hawaii. gov
Will Espero was born in Yokosuka, Japan and due to his father’s service in the U.S. Navy, Espero grew up in Washington, California, Virginia, Florida, Georgia, Cuba, Italy, and Japan. Espero graduated from Seattle University with a degree in Business Management. In the same year that he graduated, he moved to Hawai‘i, where he has lived until now. Prior to serving in the Legislature, he worked in the finance/ banking industry, property management, in Mayor Frank Fasi’s Administration as the Executive Secretary of the Neighborhood Commission Office. He was appointed to the House of Representatives in December 1999 by Governor Ben Cayetano. In the Hawai‘i State Senate, Senator Espero is the Chair of the Committee on Public Safety and the Chair of the Committee on Intergovernmental and Military Affairs. Senator Espero also serves as a
member of the following committees: Judiciary and Labor, Economic Development, and Transportation. Lorraine R. Inouye
Senate District 4 (Hilo, Hamakua, Kohala, Waimea, Waikoloa, Kona) Hawai‘i State Capitol Room 203 • Phone: 808-586-7335; Email: seninouye@capitol. hawaii. gov
Lorraine Rodero Inouye is known notably for, besides being a State Senator, as a former Hawai‘i County Mayor from 1990 to 1992 through a special election to serve the remainder of the term of Bernard Akana. In 1993, she became, and still is, the President of Aloha Blooms, Inc., a 10acre anthurium farm in Hilo. She was a former Director of the Girl Scout Council of Hawaii, and is a member of the Rotary Club of Hilo, United Nations -Hawai‘i Island, Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaii, Waimea Outdoor Circle, Big Island Filipino Community Council, and the Pepe‘ekeo Filipino Community Association. She is a graduate of Hilo High School. In the Hawai‘i State Senate, Senator Inouye is the Vice Chair of the Committee on Higher Education. She also serves as a member of the following committees: Transportation, Wa y s a n d M e a n s , a n d Hawaiian Affairs. Gilbert Keith-Agaran
Senate District 5 (Wailuku, Waihe’e, Kahului) Hawai‘i State Capitol Romm 221 Phone: 808-586-7344 Email: senkeithagaran@capitol. hawaii.gov
Prior to being a Senator, Gilbert Keith-Agaran was appointed to the House of Representatives in January 2009 to complete the unexpired term of the late
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 16-28, 2015 • PAGE 9
Donovan Dela Cruz
Will Espero
Lorraine R. Inouye
Gilbert Keith-Agaran
Donna Mercado Kim
Hawai‘i State Legislature Bob Nakasone. He practices law and has experience as Chair and Deputy Director of the Department of Land and Natural Resources, Director of Department of Labor and Industrial Relations and as Deputy Director of the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, as well as the County of Maui’s Public Works Director. Gilbert grew up in Paia and Kahului and graduated from Maui High School. He obtained his Bachelor of Arts in History from Yale College and his law degree from the University of California -Berkeley’s Boalt Hall School of Law. In the Hawaii State Senate, Senator KeithAgaran is the Chair of the Committee on Judiciary and Labor. He also serves on the following committees: Education, Public Safety, Intergovernmental and Military Affairs. Donna Mercado Kim
Senate District 14 (Kapalama, ‘Alewa, Kalihi Valley, Ft. Shafter, Moanalua Gardens & Valley, portions of Halawa and ‘Aiea) Hawai‘i State Capitol Room 409 • Phone: 808-587-7200; Email: senkim@capitol. hawaii.gov
Donna Mercado Kim has been active in the community for more than twenty years. She is a graduate of Farrington High School and attended the University of Hawai‘i. She graduated from Washington State University as cum laude. She has served as members on the following organizations: Kalihi Business Association, Filipino Chamber of Commerce, Hawai‘i Korean Chamber of Commerce, Moanalua Lions Club, Palama Settlement, Hawai‘i Korean Millenium Commission, Special Committee on Studying Effects of Economy on Judiciary. Kim served on
the Honolulu City Council from 1984 to 2000 and represented Moanalua, ‘Aiea, and Kalihi communities as a State Representative from 1982 to 1984. In the Hawai‘i State Senate, Senator Kim serves as the 13th Senate President overseeing the whole Senate. Before becoming Senate President, she was Chair of the Committee on Tourism and Government Operations and the Committee on Accountability. House of Representatives Henry Aquino
House District 38 (Waipahu) Hawai‘i State Capitol, Room 419 • Phone: 808-586-6520 Email: repaquino@capitol.hawaii. gov
Henry Aquino has lived in the district which he represents for his whole life and has served and volunteered in many aspects of his community, such as the Leeward Oahu Lions Club, Waipahu Community Foundation, Waipahu High School Alumni Association, and the Waipahu Elementary School Community Council. Aquino is married to Cyndi Aquino and together they have a son named Ethan. He is a graduate of Waipahu High School. He then went to Honolulu Community College and obtained an Associate Degree in Applied Science with a focus in Administration of Justice. After that, Henry attend the University of Hawai‘i -- West Oahu where he attained a Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration. Aquino then went to Hawai‘i Pacific University where he obtained his Masters of Arts in Communications. In the Hawai‘i State House of Representatives, Representative Aquino is the
Chair for the Committee on Transportation. The other committees that he serves as a member of are as follows: Education, Higher Education, Labor, and Public Safety.
Chair for the Committee on Health. She also serves as a member of the following c o m m i t t e e s : J u d i c i a r y, Consumer Protection, Housing, and Human Services.
Della Au Belatti
Romy Cachola
Della Au Belatti is from Manoa, where she currently represents as a State Representative. Belatti earned her Bachelor of Arts in History from Princeton University and her Juris Doctorate degree from the William S. Richardson School of Law. Belatti is a member and participant in the following professional organizations and community activities: Steering Committee Member of Envision Hawai‘i, Programs Committee Member of Hawai‘i Women Lawyers, Director of the Young Lawyers Division in the Hawai‘i State Bar Association, Director of the William S. Richardson School of Law Alumni Association, member of the Board of Directors for the Friends of the Makiki Community Library, and a member of the Board of Directors at St. Clement’s School. Prior to becoming a State Representative, Belatti was a Research Attorney with the Hawai‘i State Senate Majority Research Office, and a Law Clerk at the Hawai‘i State Supreme Court with the Honorable Simeon R. Acoba and at the Hawai‘i First Circuit Court with the Honorable Dexter Del Rosario. In the Hawai‘i State House of Representatives, Representative Belatti is the
Romy Cachola is no new player to the Legislature, nor government in itself. He was first elected to the Hawai‘i State Legislature in 1984 where he served for 16 years. He then was elected as a member of the Honolulu City Council where he served for ten years. Romy was born in Ilocos Sur, Philippines. He obtained a
House District 24 (Makiki, Tantalus, Papakolea, McCully, Pawaa, Manoa) Hawai‘i State Capitol Room 426 Phone: 808-586-9425 Email: repbelatti@capitol.hawaii. gov
House District 30 (Sand Island, Mokauea, Kapalama, Kalihi Kai) Hawai‘i State Capitol Room 435 Phone: 808-586-6010 Email: repcachola@capitol. hawaii. gov
Bachelor of Law and Master of Law degrees from Quezon University in Manila. As a legislator, Cachola has won multiple awards such as Public Servant of the Ye a r f r o m C o m m u n i t y Advocate Magazine in 1990, Outstanding Legislator Award from Hawaii Medical Association in 1999, and the Lifetime Achievement Award for Outstanding Community Service from the United Filipino Council of Hawaii in 2011. In the Hawai‘i State House of Representatives, Representative Cachola serves as the Chair for the Committee on Veterans, M i l i t a r y, I n t e r n a t i o n a l Affairs and the Chair for the Committee on Culture and the Arts. He also serves on the following committees as
PAGE 10 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 16-28, 2015
Henry Aquino
Della Au Belatti
Romy Cachola
Ty Cullen
Joy San Buenaventura
a m e m b e r : J u d i c i a r y, Consumer Protection, To u r i s m , E c o n o m i c Development, and Agriculture.
the University of Hawaii at Manoa. With his education geared for governance, Ty also has the community experience that showcases that leadership in and for his community as his passion. His experiences a r e d i ve r s e a n d ra n g e from education to civic engagement, for example, Cullen participated in the following: Board member on the Waipahu Neighborhood Board, Assistant Coach for youth football in Waikele and youth baseball, member of the Waikele Taking Action Against Graffiti (TAAG) Team, Director of the Village
Park Community Association Board, tutor at Saint Joseph’s School, member of the Kahana Valley Strategic Planning, and a member of the Juvenile Justice Compliance Committee. In the Hawai‘i State House of Representatives, Representative Cullen is the Vice Chair for the Committee on Water and Land. The other committees that he serves as a member of are as follows: Finance; Ocean, Marine Resources and Hawaiian Affairs; and Energy and Environmental Protection.
Joy San Buenaventura
and California. Joy still maintains her law practice in the Hilo Lagoon Center and is a member of the Hawai‘i State and Hawai‘i County Bar Associations, the Hawaii Trial and American Trial Lawyer Associations and is listed in the Who’s W h o i n A m e r i c a n L aw. She also takes the time to volunteer with the Legal Aid Society’s Self-Help Center, t h e Ku ’ i k a h i M e d i a t i o n Center and Volunteer Legal Services of Hawai‘i. In the Hawai‘i State House of Representatives, Representative San Buenaventura is the Vice Chair of the Judiciary Committee. She is also a member of the following committees: Consumer Protection, Labor, Public Safety, and Transportation.
Ty Cullen
House District 39 (Royal Kunia, Village Park, Waipahu, Makakilo, West Loch) Hawai‘i State Capitol Room 316 Phone: 808-586-8490 Email: repcullen@capitol.hawaii .gov
Cullen has a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, and a Masters in Public Administration, all from
House District 4 (Puna) Hawai‘i State Capitol, Room 305 Phone: 808-586-6530 Email: repsanbuenaventura @ capitol.hawaii.gov
Originally from Manila, J o y S a n B u e n a v e n t u ra grew up in Honolulu. She graduated from McKinley High School where she was a member of the National Honor Society and the student council. She then went on to the University of Nevada - Las Vegas where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. She then attended law school at the University of California, Hastings College of Law. Today, she is licensed to practice law in the State of Hawai‘i, the United States District Court of Hawai‘i
Radiant Cordero is an Assistant Editor at the Fil-Am Courier. She was awarded by the United Filipino Council of Hawaii as an “Outstanding Youth” and by the JCI Filipino Junior Chamber as a “Top Outstanding Young Filipino.” She graduated with honors from the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa with a B.A. in Political Science and B.A. in American Studies in May 2012 and is now a Master’s candidate in the Public Administration Program at UH Manoa. Cordero serves as the Volunteers’ Coordinator for the KaBATAan: Filipino for Kids Hawaii program and works as an External Government Relations and Legislative Aide at the Honolulu City Council.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 16-28, 2015 • PAGE 11
By: Kit Zulueta (Maui)
When I was in grade school and was asked to define love in the class S l a m b o o k , my f r i e n d s ’ scribbles include “love is blind,” “love is like a rosary full of mysteries,” and “love is not selfish, love is kind.” What do we know about love at such a naïve time? Decades after writing in that slambook, love to me became more apparent in tangible things. If you live with a significant other, love begins to define itself when the partner prepares you dinner, when he or she deals with two weeks’ worth of laundry (and folds the garments!) or when the trash liner is changed after taking out the garbage. Sometimes, love to me is grabbing a strawberry milkshake from the golden arch. It gives me a “high.” It makes me excited and happy inside and out. It’s the same feeling I get whenever a good community project comes to fruition and everyone benefits. It’s a different kind of “love” I invite you all to try. There are several community events coming up that should be on your radar this season of hearts. On March 14, the Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce Foundation will have its annual golf
True love in community service: Golf tournament on Maui, FYLPro search is on tournament at the Dunes at Maui Lani. Every year, tournament organizers spend a substantial amount of time making sure the players have a reason to return. The organizers are currently looking for sponsors and participants. Please contact the Chairperson Bill Ruidas at 873-8605 if you’re interested. Proceeds from the golf tournament fund the organization’s scholarship programs. The more money we raise, the more scholarships we can give away. Since 1995, more than 100 students have benefited from the chamber’s scholarship program. It is important to note too that in the past, players t rave l e d f r o m O a h u t o attend this event. Guests were treated with breakfast, snacks and a hearty lunch. Plus, a flat screen television is usually up for grabs other than the Mayor’s cup for the highest scoring team. I get a “high” just thinking about the details. I had another idea of this “love” when the Philippine Consulate of Honolulu hosted members of the FilAm youth to get a sense of what challenges they face in the community. For the first time, FilAm Young Leaders Program (FYLPro) alumni of Hawaii
got together at this event – Randy Cortez of Oahu, Mike Dahilig of Kauai and me from Maui. Already we felt like we’re siblings, not only because we went through the program, but because we shared the same love for the community. A n d t h i s Va l e n t i n e s month, we really want to share this love with everyone. We invite our fellow youth to apply for this program and have a chance to travel to the Philippines in an all-expense-paid trip to meet with distinguished officials of the country. To me, it was a trip I’ll never forget and I have gained friends from across the nation because of the
opportunity. The 4th FYLPro search was launched last month and interested applicants 25 to 40 years old who have a passport and a mindset ready to be immersed in the program are invited to apply. The consulate is looking for individuals who have demonstrated leadership skills, and have a knack in bringing the FilAm community together. We w e r e e x p o s e d to political advocacy initiatives, learned about social entrepreneurship and saw first-hand tourism promotion programs. We
took back what we learned and delegates have launched programs based on the trip such as Teach for the Philippines, voter awareness and education campaigns and some launched political campaigns on their own. An application form is available at fylpro.com/ apply, which includes essay questions about current and future plans to echo the learnings from the program. Submitting an application is a commitment and a promise that you will not only be a leader of tomorrow, but a leader of today. Ten selected delegates will be chosen from a pool of applicants across the U.S., will be announced on April 30 and will travel for July 2 to 9. Discover yourself in many ways you won’t imagine as you find true love when you work with the community. Remember it’s always best if you share this love with others.
Kit Zulueta is vice president of the Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce and is part of the first batch of FYLPro. She is online at kitzulueta.com, @keeet on IG and Twitter.
PAGE 12 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 16-28, 2015
Engagement Stories That Will Touch Your Heart By Kathleen Lee
PART TWO:
“Happily Ever After” is that magical moment which is usually preceded by the would-be groom popping the question of the day to the would-be bride: “will you marry me?” Then for a brief nanosecond, the groom holds his breath in anticipation, until the bride let’s out a sincere, “yes!” At that memorable moment, all is seemingly right with the world. Of course, the manner by which that question is asked, often varies. Often,
it is a simple whisper with no fanfare. Sometimes, it can be grand productions that can rival those shown at Hawaii Theater.
We’ve collected various engagement stories from five couples: one about to get married, three who recently went through their weddings in the last year, and one couple who has been married for over two decades. Due to space restrictions, we were only able to publish the first three stories. Here is Part Two:
Ashley Retutal + Mike Tan Ashley Retutal & Mike Tan were both born and raised in Hawaii, on the island of Oahu. Ashley grew up in Waikele and Kalihi, and Mike was raised in Kalihi. Ashley’s mother’s side of the family currently lives in the Philippines. Mike also has family in the Philippines. The couple knew each other for over six years before getting engaged. They met at Zippy’s through a mutual friend, after a night out with their friends. They are both nurses working at various hospitals on Oahu, and reside in Alewa Heights. Ashley and Mike were married in Honolulu in October 2014. How did you know your significant other was “The One”? Mike: I knew Ashley was “the one” the minute I asked myself, “Could I live without her?” and “could I see myself with her in my future?” I can’t put an exact time when I knew but, I honestly could not live without her and knew “she is my future”. She is the first person on my mind when I wake up and the last before I go to bed. I think about her smile all day and can’t wait to see her every time I’m away from her. She is not only my wife, but my best friend. She completes me. Ashley: I knew Mike was “The One” after 2 years of dating. He was always so selfless and romantic during the early years of our relationship, and of course, still is after all these years. He would always make the effort to spend time with me, and drive all the way out to Waikele to see me. I also asked myself if I could see Mike a part of my future, and my heart always said yes. Even after having fights/ disagreements with Mike, there was always a part of me that wanted to be with him. I knew early on that we were meant to be together.
Where do you see your relationship five years from now? Ashley + Mike: Living in Hawaii with a family of our own, also traveling when possible. THE PROPOSAL, according to the couple: Ashley: It was Wednesday Feb 20, 2013 at 4pm in the afternoon; it was a sunset photo-shoot session at Kakaako Park. It was pre-planned by Mike with his group of close friends who share the shame hobby of photography. Mike convinced me that his friends wanted to practice taking photos and wanted to use us as their models. Mike and his best friend D a r e n h a d p ra c t i c e d t h e proposal the night before at Kakaako. They decided where, when, and how Mike was going to do the proposal the next day. They also decided that they would make sure to take video and photos in order to use for the wedding day, to show people the surprise proposal. Mike had taken a photo of himself on his camera holding up a sign saying “will you marry me?” That photo was to be used to surprise me during the photo session. The “code phrase” was settled between Mike and his friends; he was going to propose right after saying, “Hey
how did that picture come out?” As Mike’s friends took photos of us, Mike mentioned the code phrase, and Daren asked Mike to look at his camera, which had the photo taken previously of Mike holding up the sign “Will you marry me?”. After the code phrase was said, Daren went up to Mike and pretended to show Mike the photo of him holding up the “Will you marry me?” sign. After that, Daren went to me and asked me to look at the photo As I did, Mike went down on one knee behind me and opened the box holding the engagement ring. When I noticed what the actual picture was, I screamed “WHAT?” and turned and slapped Mike on the shoulder. Then Mike said his love spiel and ended with, “Ashley, will you marry me?” I said YES!!! We continued to take engagement photos. After the proposal, we all headed to the house where our families and friends were waiting. I had no clue they were waiting to congratulate them. When they got to the house she was surprised to see everyone waiting for them. Funny thing, it was raining all day, on the day of the proposal. Mike had to drive to two other back up locations to see what the weather was
like. He was so terrified that the weather would ruin the proposal, but everything was set and planned and he knew he had to propose no mater what. Mike must’ve changed the location at least 3 times that day. It stopped raining in the afternoon close to the proposal time, so Mike was able to propose at the original location. As we were walking back to the parking lot after the proposal, it started to rain again and didn’t stop till later that night. We like to think it was a blessing of our engagement. Mike: That day, I was so terrified because it wouldn’t stop raining all day and I thought my plans were ruined. Ashley even said maybe we should postpone the photo shoot because it was raining. Luckily, we had a window of no rain for a few hours, giving me enough time to propose. Aside from being terrified of my plans not being able to be carried out, I was super nervous, I thought about Ashley possibly saying no. Does Ashley know I’m going to propose? Will the proposal go smoothly? Is everything set for the proposal and dinner afterwards? There were so many things I was thinking about that made me
nervous and anxious, but the moment I saw Ashley after she got ready and all made up for the photo shoot proposal, I knew everything was going to be fine. She looked so beautiful and I knew I had to make this proposal work. The proposal ended up going well and she was so surprised, even more so that she got to see her family and friends afterwards and having a big smile on her face made me the happiest man in the world that day. Especially because she said yes!!! TIPS, for couples thinking of proposing:
Ashley + Mike: When you plan to propose, just make it your own. Propose when she least suspects it, and at a location she will never suspect. Be original, do something that will make her so surprised that when you actually propose she is speechless. Try to get photos and video of the proposal so you have memories of it and can use it towards future events, and it’s nice to show people when telling the story. Lastly make sure you plan it well so that it will go smoothly, always have 2 back up plans on top of your original plan so you don’t get stuck and can’t propose, because you never know if something will come up. And most importantly remember to have fun!!!
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 16-28, 2015 • PAGE 13
Jennifer Salazar + Larry Ordoñez Jennifer Salazar Ordonez and Larry Lorenzo Ordonez, Jr. were both born in the Philippines. Larry is from San Esteban, Ilocos Sur, and Jeniffer was born and raised in Manila. Larry came to Hawaii in 1970 and settled in Lahaina, Maui. Jeniffer moved to Kahului in 1986. The couple has been married for over 27 years, and has three children: Erika, Samantha, and Lorenzo III. The couple currently lives in Mililani. Larry is a Real Estate Developer, Radio Announcer, and TV Producer. Jeniffer manages the family businesses: Jen and Friends Hawaii, Choice Properties and Video by Jen Productions. The Ordonez duo has been very involved with the Filipino community for a long time. According to Larry, around the time he met his wife, “I was very active in the Jaycees, and was hosting Filipino Fiesta on KHON2 aside from having a radio show. That year, I was labeled as the most available bachelor in the Filipino community. I even made it to the ‘Black Book of Most Available Single Men’ written by the Hawaii Jaycettes.” They met at a Maui Filipino Community Council event at the Maui Beach Hotel. According to Larry, “I saw Jen for the first time at a wedding reception two months prior.” Per his timeline: “I (first) saw her in 1986, we met in 1987, and got married in November 1987.” Their courtship included Larry sending Jeniffer a protea bouquet. “I wanted to be noticed and get her attention so I did not send typical floral arrangements. I opted for a type of flower that would bloom only once a year.” Jeniffer’s thoughts on the bouquet: “I asked myself, who would send me a big King Protea arrangement with a note saying, ‘From a Secret Admirer… Have a nice day’ without any sender’s name? I didn’t want to get too close to it; I felt as if it was going to eat my face. My mom placed it on the counter by the TV and as I glanced at it from time to time, I noticed the real beauty of the flower. I started to appreciate the arrangement and thought that maybe the person who sent this must have a strong personality and sensitivity as well. I then received another arrangement at work: a beautiful spider protea floral arrangement.”
How did you know your significant other was “The One”? Larry: I d i d n o t k n o w. However, at age 33 then, I had some basic thoughts of what I wanted: 1. Can I live with her decisions? 2. Will she leave pleasant and lasting impressions to people she talks to? 3. Will I feel good introducing her to my family and friends? Jeniffer: I did not know. What I knew was to use my heart first and then my mind when Larry surprisingly asked me to marry him. It wouldn’t have worked if my heart was not there first. Faith, Love, Family, and Values were all thought of and considered before I said “yes”! Where do you see your relationship five years from now? Larry: I see our relationship get even stronger than now with our children, family, and friends. I see us spending more time together, travel together without physical help. I see us scale down our
business activities and financial obligations. I see myself looking at my wife even more so than ever before. I want our relationship as husband and wife to deepen even further so that my actions will continue to inspire and bring the best in us, for each other, for our children, and for the people around us. Jeniffer: I see more strength and closer bonding in our relationship, hanging loose from time to time, more travels to enjoy family, friends, and the beauty of places, eating healthier, making time to get involve to support community and church, and just living life to the fullest and making sure to count each day as a blessing from our Almighty. THE PROPOSAL, according to the couple: Larry: It was around March, 1987 at the Maui Marriott Hotel. After visiting my parents’ house in Lahaina one afternoon, Jen and I went out to dinner at the Maui Marriott Hotel at the Kaanapali Resorts in Lahaina. We had after dinner and drinks at the hotel’s dining lounge. While enjoying the music at
the hotel lanai that overlooked the ocean and hotel gardens, I took out a ring and asked Jen to marry me. What went through my mind was, “this is the woman of my dreams, whom I want to grow with, share times with in good and in bad. How can I best say what I want from her? I am doing something that is life changing; a decision that I will live with for the rest of our lives. We are both adding someone new in each other’s lives forever. We will wake up each morning and see each other”. What if she says, “No, I’m not ready yet,” then what? “One step at a time, my man!” I told myself. It felt like fast changing images in a film. Jeniffer: The evening was calm and breezy, and we were seated on the second floor of an open and elegant dining lounge overlooking the ocean. I thought it would be just a dinner, dance, and enjoyment of each other’s company. Never was it in my mind or dreams to settle down at the age of 24. It was a big surprise when he asked me to marry him while holding a ring on his hand. I felt my head spinning and some questions popped in my head requiring immediate answers.
“What about the many things I want to do on my own? What about my immediate family members being far and away? Can I really live with this man for the rest of my life through ups and downs? Will I get tired looking at him everyday and night of my life?” I managed to look composed but silent. I knew that my heart was beating fast but it was not confused. I said a quiet prayer for help to make a decision, looked at Larry and saw such confident assurance that “we” should work and that we belong together. My heart and mind synced and said “yes!” TIPS, for couples thinking of proposing: Larry: Be yourself. Think beyond the moment. Make it eventful so that you will share the story to your children and grandchildren. Jeniffer: Respect and take into consideration one’s values, family, and traditions
Kathleen Lee spent the 80’s in the Philippines - born in Batangas on an Air Force base, and raised in Baguio (PMA, Fort Del Pilar) and Manila (Quezon City), respectively. She and her family moved to San Jose, California in the early 90’s, where she ended up at San Jose State University to study Political Science. In 2009, Kathleen moved to Hawaii, and learned more about the community working for the Hawaii State Legislature and YMCA of Honolulu. She currently works as a professional in the Tourism and Hospitality industry.
PAGE 14 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 16-28, 2015
By Michael Miranda
The Kauai Filipino Chamber of Commerce held its annual Awards & Installation Gala at the Kauai Beach Resort on January 24, 2015, inaugurating members of its board of directors and recognizing outstanding members, volunteers, and small business. Chamber President Eddie Topenio, Jr. begins his second term, leading the 14-year old organization into another year of promoting Filipino business and related interests. He welcomed new board members, presented awards to honorees, and presented guest speakers Robbie Alm, president of the Collaborative Leaders Network (CLN), and Sue Kanoho, executive director
KAUAI FILIPINO CHAMBER INSTALLS ITS 2015-2016 OFFICERS
Kauai Filipino Chamber Board of Directors and Officers
of the Kauai Visitors Bureau (KVB). Topenio reviewed the C h a m b e r ’s p r o j e c t s i n 2014, which included the scholarship golf tournament, the first Kauai Fashion Week, a $25,000 contribution to
the Kauai Philippine Cultural Center, and a political fora held before the primary and general elections. The Chamber is also devising a new strategic plan. “The strategic plan is key in guiding our organization
in achieving our mission of promoting business and adjusting to challenges over the next several years,” Topenio said. He added that the Chamber’s annual golf tournament, held every Labor Day weekend, has
grown every year, allowing over $25,000 in scholarships to be distributed since 2001. Alm spoke about his current role of president of the CLN, a problem-solving initiative of eBay founder Pierre Omidyar’s The Omidyar Group. Reflecting on his past leadership experiences with HECO, First Hawaiian Bank, The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, and as part of the late US Senator Daniel Inouye’s staff, Alm linked business and community leadership as the vanguard of building strong and respectful societies. Kanoho presented the KVB’s data from 2014, illustrating tourists’ reasons for visiting Kauai, average
Performers at the Installation & Awards Gala (l-r) Joey Charles, Juno Ann Apalla, and Dr. Addison Bulosan
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 16-28, 2015 • PAGE 15
President Topenio, Marites Yano (Small Business of the Year), Cyndi Ayonon (Officer of the Year), Koa Yukimura (accepting award for Peter Yukimura, Corporate Member of the Year), Norma Doctor-Sparks (Chairperson of the Year), Mike Miranda (Individual Member of the Year), Wendy Martinez (Volunteer of the Year)
stay, spending, origins, and likes and dislikes about their experience in visiting the Garden Island. Kauai’s exposure through television shows, travel books, magazines, blogs, and conventions were also outlined. Kanoho continued to demonstrate that the number of visitors to Kauai declined in 2014, but spending slightly increased due to an influx of affluent visitors.
The 2015 officers for the Kauai Filipino Chamber of Commerce include President Eddie Topenio, Jr., Vice President Bobby Ayonon, Secretary Casey Quel-Fitchett, Assistant Secretary Cyndi Ayonon, Treasurer Marites Yano, Assistant Treasurer Cristeta Owan, and directors Angel Acorda, Lesther Calipjo, Dr. Arnulfo Diaz, Eugene Jimenez, Vonn Ramos, Mike Martinez, Michael Miranda,
Wade Lord, emcee Bennette Misalucha, J Robertson, Cynthia and Robbie Alm, Sue Kanoho, Marynel Valenzuela
Norma Doctor-Sparks, Tito Villanueva, Laurie Yoshida, Special Assistant to the Board Willy Ortal, Legal Counsel Mike Dahilig, and Immediate Past President Marynel Valenzuela. Awardees were Norma Doctor-Sparks, Chairperson of the Year, Cyndi Ayonon, Officer of the Year, Wendy Martinez, Volunteer of the Ye a r, M i c h a e l M i ra n d a , Individual Member of the Ye a r, P e t e r Yu k i m u r a ,
Corporate Member of the Year, and Marites Yano, Business of the Year. The Kauai Filipino Chamber of Commerce was organized in August 2000 and chartered in 2001. The first meeting was held at the old Kauai Lagoons Master’s Restaurant in Lihue. Oscar Portugal was elected as the founding president, and currently serves as its executive director.
Michael Miranda is a UH-Manoa graduate in sociology with focus on ethnic studies and music. He is on the Board of Directors for the Kaua’i Filipino Chamber of Commerce and the Advisory Board for the Boys & Girls Club of Hawai’i Clubhouse. He has been published in Yahoo! and lives in Lihue.
PAGE 16 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 16-28, 2015
Great Malunggay Festival and Parade to take place at Leeward
The first annual Great Malunggay Festival and Parade will take place at Leeward Community College (LCC), on February 21, 2015 from 9 am to 4 pm. The Festival is a celebration of the food and fun of the Filipino culture, featuring various food, crafts, and retail vendor booths, a parade, and entertainment. Event is open to the public; Admission is free. Malunggay, also known as marunggay, calamunggay, or scientifically known as moringa oleifera, and can be seen growing in the yards of many homes in Hawaii. This leafy green tree has recently been touted as a superfood and is common in Filipino cuisine. The Great Malunggay Festival and Parade is a celebration of Filipino food, fun, and most importantly our community. Entertainment will feature a various local talent including a FilAm All Star Band, featuring former members of Society of Seven, Honolulu the Band, and the Manila Machine. This event will also feature booths sponsored by the LCC Fil-Am student group Kasama, as a fundraiser to support students as they pursue higher education. A parade around the LCC campus will feature a Royal Court, and members of the community. O r g a n i ze r s a r e a l s o publishing a commemorative souvenir program to document this event as the first of its kind. For more information, visit www.malunggay festival.com or call 808-2562755. Follow us on social media: Facebook: “The Great Malunggay Festival and Parade” Instagram & Twitter “MalunggayFestHI.”
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 16-28, 2015 • PAGE 17
By Marnelli Joy Basilio
RETIRED PHILIPPINE CHIEF JUSTICE DAVIDE LECTURES AT THE UH LAW SCHOOL to challenge the audience, asking what we can do to protect, conserve, and restore the LAW of Life. Unless we take action, not a single area on the earth will be protected from destruction. In order to do so requires common action and united effort, as we are all affected by climate change through weather, such as natural occurrences like the typhoons that devasted the Philippines in the past few years. Justice Davide also spoke about his experiences as the Philippine Ambassador to the United Nations, where he served after retiring from the Supreme Court of the Philippines in 2005. During
Justice Hilario Davide
On Wednesday, February 4, 2015, the Honorable Hilario Davide spoke at the William S. Richardson School of Law at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Davide is former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines and former Philippine delegate to the United Nations (UN). His lecture was part of the Climate Justice for Future Generations class being taught by visiting Filipino environmental activist Antonio A. Oposa, Jr. Davide began with the concept of nature, where the “L.A.W. of Life” refers to the life giving elements of land, air, and water. He said that Mother Nature gives us these things to nurture our lives, and we should be responsible and act as caregivers, so that these resources will not be depleted or destroyed. He went on to describe his personal appreciation for the beautiful landscapes
of the Hawaiian islands such as Akaka Falls, Mauna Kea, and Kilauea on the Big Island, Waimea Canyon on Kauai, and the many miles of beaches. By citing these places he sought to show that we need to stop taking advantage of the elements of the LAW of Life, they should be cared for, if we would like to continue to enjoy natural displays of such beauty. Justice Davide is noted for his decision on the Minors Oposa v. Factoran case during his term with the Philippine Supreme Court, giving children and future generations legal personality based on the concept of intergenerational responsi-bility. The principle of intergenerational responsi-bility was one of his major points, noting that the consequences of our decisions today will be experienced by our future children and their children. Justice Davide went on
his term as ambassador, he was critical in the establishment of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and a resolution on the ocean and the law of the sea. As part of the audience I was impressed by his ability to engage and personalize the need for action, combined with ingenuity and boldness, in order to shift the culture of consumption
towards sustainable usage of natural resources. It was an inspiring afternoon, listening to someone who worked so hard to affect his community, country, and the world we live in. May we all take heed and do our parts in being stewards of the LAW of Life and being responsible to our future generations for the state and condition of our planet.
Marnelli Basilio is currently the Communications and Special Events Coordinator at the William S. Richardson School of Law at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, where she works on communications and special events. She holds a degree in Marketing and International Business and is currently working towards a Master’s degree in Educational Administration with a concentration in Higher Education. Marnelli works with the Sariling Gawa Youth Council and was Miss Oahu Filipina 2010.
PAGE 18 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 16-28, 2015
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 16-28, 2015 • PAGE 19
CLASSIFIED ADS HELP WANTED Seeking a full time or part time garment cutter position. Hours of operation: Monday – Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm. Company offer great benefits. Call 841-1882 Gordon JANITOR: Pay $7.75$ 9 . 0 0 / h r Looking for candidates with 1 year commercial experience. Buffing, waxing & cleaning floors. Shampooing & vacuuming carpets. Cleaning common areas. Must be able to lift 50-70 lbs. Call Staffing Partners at 945-9300.
LABOR:
LITE INDUSTRIAL/ LABORERS - Warehouse - Driver Helper - Production Line - Food Prep/Dishwashers Pay $7.75 - $8.50/hr 6 mos of recent work experience needed. For interviews call our Ala Moana office 945-9300, Staffing Partners.
Part-time help wanted to package candies and snacks. PH 833-5135
Receive a $300 hiring bonus
No nights. No weekends. No experience necessary. Our wonderful atmosphere will make you feel right at home. Weekly pay check, paid mileage, part time and full time, paid holidays off, $11 per hour guaranteed, and family atmosphere. Call Bonnie Williams at 955-6243. Call or come by our office today. The Merry Maids.
Live-In Caregiver (CAN/NA)
Hawaii kai is looking for a caregiver for a 5 beds residential care home, must have experience in a nursing home or a care home. Live in or live out. If interested please call
Berly or George 396-4195.
for sale Eternal Garden
Memorial Park 4 Lots Available Caloocan City, Metro Manila, Philippines Call Ed (808) 381-8897 VALLEY of the Temples Lot with marker, interment vault, and ground opening /closing with Saturday charge. Below market price. Call 232-7262.
for rent 2 rooms FOR RENT:
Available! Call 678-8124
FOR RENT One Bed Room: $700 including utilities. Close to town.
Call 384-0117
room for rent
waipahu 1 person working, including utilities, street
call 6760759
parking,
available!
services INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT?
Pedestrian/Bicycle Truck/Auto/Slip & Fall; Medical MASSAGE Reduce: Headaches Neck/Back Shoulder/Leg/Hand PAIN 808-223-8243 Robert R. Holland Licensed MT
ADOPTIONS
Former Family Court & Circuit Court Judge Rey Graulty. Call 674-2637 for information.
WEDDINGS-ANYTIME, ANYWHERE. Judge Graulty (retired) call 778-8510 to schedule.
SHORT ON CASH? Business Oportunity. $400+ per transaction.
Call 295-0577