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THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 1-15, 2015 • PAGE 3
Bennette Espineli Misalucha
serving The community since 1987
A Happiness-Filled New Year
Publisher Mary Llanos Cordero Managing Editor Bennette Espineli Misalucha Director of Design Armand Busmente Production Manager Alice Llanos Busmente Assistant Editors Radiant Cordero Copy Editor Danielle Evangelista Photographers/Graphics Brandon dela Cruz Noah Felipe Gabe de Liso 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 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.
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Close your eyes. Picture your state of happiness. What do you see? Personally, mine is easy. It is a vision of my two adult children and I, traveling and exploring some new place for the first time. Happiness is the feeling of satisfaction at work when I know I have done a good job and that effort is appreciated by peers and clients alike. Or it is the ultimate joy of serving others, whether as simple as cooking a meal for a sick friend, or joining a Rotary club on its annual humanitarian mission to some remote area in the Philippines. As I imagine being happy, positive energy courses through me, and I feel loved. Peace of mind reigns. All is well. And this is what I would like to wish for me and you for the new year: for us to create happiness in our lives. I know it is easier said than done. Consider this: the latest statistics reflect that one in four people have been diagnosed with depression in the United States. About 120 million antidepressant medications have been prescribed in a country of 350 million people. Technology, which has invaded our lives. is supposed to lighten our load and make us happier. But opposite results may be true; it may actually complicate our lives and render us helpless and more miserable. In 1997, psychologists David Meyers and Ed Diener wrote an article titled “The S c i e n c e o f H a p p i n e s s ”, which was published in The Futurist magazine. In it, the authors asked: Where exactly does happiness come from? They presented scientific data which identified the traits of happy people and which debunked many myths. Here are some traits they mentioned, along with several others. (source: Huffington Post; LDS Church News); a) Happy people practice gratitude on a daily basis.
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b) Happy people find their bliss. They know what they are good at, and they strive for excellence
based on the fulfillment of those special gifts. c) They choose to live a life of joy. Happy people take action. It is said that if you take an hour from an activity you hate and transfer that hour to an activity you like, there will be great improvement on your happiness barometer. d) Happy people do not think of “if only” fantasies. They know that it is futile to think: “If only I get a better job, my life would be perfect.” e) Happy people put best friends first. Interestingly enough, people are happier spending long hours with a close friend than kibitzing with several acquaintances. Here in lies the value of closer personal relationships. f) H a p p y p e o p l e a l l o w themselves to be happy. No guilt. No shame in b e i n g h a p p y. When you open your mind to possibilities, you become more open to helping other. g) Happy people surround themselves with other h a p py p e o p l e . J oy i s contagious. h) H a p p y p e o p l e s p e n d money more on others than they spend on themselves. Givers experience what scientists call the “helper’s high.” i) Happy people surround themselves with other happy people. People are four times more likely to be happy since joy is contagious. j) They have good in-depth conversations about life. Happy people are curious about the world. k) Happy people rely on laughter as medicine. It releases lots of good neurotransmitters. l) Happy people take care of their bodies with exercise
and healthy diet. A poor diet can contribute to depression. m) Happy people know how to relax: they take the time to unplug. n) Happy people get enough sleep. When people run low on sleep, they are prone to feel a lack of clarity, bad moods, and poor judgment. o) Happy people are spiritual. How many of these traits do you already practice? Not hap py w i th your results? Perhaps you may be interested in a free eightweek course offered online by the University of California Berkeley, called “the Science of Happiness. Here is the description of the course: “The Science of Happiness” is the first MOOC to teach the groundbreaking science of positive psychology, which explores the roots of a happy and meaningful life. Created by UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center, the course will zero in on a fundamental finding from positive psychology: that happiness is inextricably linked to having strong social connections and contributing to something bigger than yourself—the Students will learn about the cross-disciplinary research supporting this view, spanning the fields of psychology, neuroscience, evolutionary biology, and beyond.” Interested? Here is the link for additional information: https://www.edx.org/
course/science-happinessuc-berkeleyx-gg101x#. VKPlAivF_h4 As the new year 2015 marches on, this is the perfect time to institute the changes. Happiness is a choice, after all. O n e H awa i i b u s i n e s s leader who seems to be living a happy and meaningful life is our cover story subject, Gladys Quinto Marrone, CEO of the Building Industry Association. Gladys loves her job, is energized and is surrounded by a good social network of friends and supporters. We wish Gladys well in her new role! In this issue, we also welcome back Brandon Elefante who used to write for the Courier about two years ago. Elefante is now a Council member for the City and County of Honolulu, representing Aiea-Pearlridge area. Elefante followed his dreams, and has a career which is aligned with his skill sets and his interests. Good luck to these two outstanding FilipinoAmericans! How about you? Ready to choose happiness? Or are you like Nobel Laureate Albert Schweitzer, who once quipped that “happiness is nothing more than good health and a bad memory.” We at the Fil-am Courier wish you all a Happy New Year! Let us all look forward to a Happiness-filled 2015!
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Gladys QuintoMarrone is appointed as CEO & Chief Lobbyist of BIA-Hawaii
By radiant cordero Our cover....
The subject of this issue’s profile, Gladys Quinto Marrone, was photographed in downtown Honolulu by the talented James Ramos. James can be reached at james@ jamesramosphotography.com or at (808) 345-3934. Cover concept by Noah Felipe of OrigMedia. A special mahalo to Jeff Orig of OrigMedia. (www.origmedia.com or (808) 447-9559)
The Building Industry Association of Hawai‘i (BIAHawai‘i) is a not-for-profit organization chartered in 1955 and is one of 800 associations affiliated with the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). Its members consist of nearly 400 developers, general and specialty contractors, suppliers and associates. BIA-Hawai‘i helps its members by producing events and programs for their members and the general public to help further the building industry. With its community outreach programs, education, and advocacy f o r i t s m e m b e r s , B I AHawai‘i truly is the voice of the construction industry as BIA-Hawai‘i fosters a climate that encourages and empowers diligence amongst its members and staff. In September 2014, BIAHawai‘i welcomed a very familiar face as its newest CEO and Chief Lobbyist. Gladys Quinto Marrone was appointed as CEO and
Chief Lobbyist and precedes BIA-Hawai‘i’s longtime CEO Ka r e n N a k a m u ra a f t e r Nakamura announced that she would retire this year. Gladys Quinto Marrone is a second-generation Filipina. Her mother hails from Batac, Ilocos Norte while her dad from Paoay, Ilocos Norte. Gladys has one sister, Lisa Antonio, and the family grew up in Kalihi. Marrone attended Kaewai Elementary, Dole Intermediate, and Farrington High schools where she was active in her schools’ student government and held several elected offices. She went on to graduate f r o m t h e U n i ve r s i ty o f Southern California’s (USC) Price School of Public Policy with a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration. As a USC graduate, she remains an avid USC Trojan football fan. Though she went to USC after high school, Gladys claims that, “I originally wanted to go to culinary school right out of high school. I love to cook and create new
THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 1-15, 2015 • PAGE 5
With Governor Abercrombie during the signing of SB 2581 (2014).
dishes.” Luckily, Gladys has a resident taste-tester for her concoctions – her husband Danilo Marrone. Marrone began her career as a Planner with the City of Santa Ana in Orange County, California. In 1995, she returned home and worked at Kamehameha School before she headed back to the mainland to start law school at Seattle University in 1996. She transferred back home in 1998 to the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa’s William S. Richardson School of Law where she graduated with her Juris Doctorate degree in 1999. As we can see in her work for BIA-Hawai‘i, Gladys states that she was inspired to attend law school, “as a way to make things better for those that didn’t have a voice.” Gladys is licensed in District of Columbia, though does not currently practice law. In her final semester at Richardson, Gladys had the opportunity to extern at the office of former Lt. Governor Mazie Hirono. After her externship, Gladys began her legislative experience as a Bills Researcher at
the Hawai‘i State Senate’s Ways and Means Committee under the co-chairs of Senators Andy Levin and Carol Fukunaga. She then went on to work as the Associate Director of Policy and Planning on the Hawai‘i Uninsured Project at the Hawai‘i Institute of Public Affairs. Then, Marrone joined the Land Use Research Foundation as its Director o f Re s e a r c h a n d L e g a l Affairs. After three years, Gladys became a Planner with Group 70 International. Her established experience then brought her back to government relations when BIA-Hawai‘i’s Government Research Director position opened up. Prior to her appointment, G l a d y s s e r ve d a s B I AHawai‘i’s Director of Government Relations since 2011. She was the bridge to help the building industry advance as she tracked legislation that impacted the housing and construction i n d u s t r y, h e l p e d f o r m coalitions with similar groups to help advance their agenda, and holding legislative events such as Legislative Day (meeting
with legislators and present their legislative priorities) and a Stew Challenge (legislators and legislative staff attend and taste stews cooked by member companies). Under her leadership as the Director of Government Relation, BIA-Hawai‘i was able to see through and pass legislation that helps homebuilding and homeowners, such as: keepi ng resi denti al fire sprinklers optional for the homeowner who could pay almost $24,000 for a new system, tightening the owner-builder law, and
adding construction industry representatives to the State Building Code Council – a body of that adopts code changes impacting homebuilding. With her new position, there is no doubt that Marrone has taken on more responsibilities as CEO and Chief Lobbyist. Her role has her overseeing the successful operation of BIA and maintaining its value to the membership – including providing networking, and other opportunities to help grow members’ business,
providing education to their members and the public, and advocating what helps protect BIA’s members’ businesses. Gladys has had the opportunity to participate in the 2013-15 Diversity Executive Leadership Program (DELP). The program supports individuals from under-represented groups in the association community to advance into the ranks of leadership in the association profession. Gladys attributes DELP’s a c c e l e ra t e d l e a d e r s h i p
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p r o g ra m o f e d u c a t i o n , mentoring, and volunteer service in the association community as a major component that helped prepare her for her role as BIA-Hawai‘i’s CEO and Chief Lobbyist. Although she has much more to tackle, Gladys firmly believes in BIA-Hawai‘i’s mission and is ready to lead the organization. She explains how BIA-Hawai‘i’s role is beneficial for not just the building industry, but for families in Hawai‘i, “We advocate on behalf of our industry for safe and decent housing that is affordable to Hawai‘i’s working families. Housing is at a critical point: very low inventory and high demand has pushed up the median price of a singlefamily home on Oahu to $700,000. How can a family of four, making the median income of $82,600 afford that? BIA-Hawai‘i is strongly advocating the increase in the supply of housing at every price point if the next generation is going to be able to afford their own home.”
With a passion for helping Hawai‘i’s families, its building industry and especially the experience to lead, Gladys Marrone is certainly fit to fight for the underdog. “My desire to fight for the underdog helps me to succeed at BIA, as we work hard to improve the quality of life for Hawai‘i’s families.” Under her leadership, Marrone provides a strong foundation with insight as the BIA’s Director of Government Relations and now as its CEO and Chief Lobbyist.
BIA leadership with Senator Mazie Hirono: Dean Uchida, Brian Adachi, and Greg Thielen.
Radiant Cordero is an Assistant Editor at the Fil-Am Courier. She is a devoted public servant, serving the City and County of Honolulu as a Senior Advisor in the Honolulu City Council. 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 a B.A. in American Studies in May 2012. She is now a graduate student at UH Manoa. Cordero is an avid volunteer and serves her community through many aspects from the keiki, leadership skills for the youth, to voter registration and overall political awareness, and is a major advocate for civic engagement.
Gladys after her appointment to the City and County of Honolulu’s Transportation Commission with Mayor Kirk Caldwell and Galdys’s husband, Danilo Marrone.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 1-15, 2015 • PAGE 7
ABOUT BUILDING INDUSTRY
ASSOCIATION Contributed by BIA Staff
The Building Industry Association of Hawaii is celebrating its 60th year this year. Ten visionary men began the Home Builders Association of Hawaii and affiliated with the National Association of Home Builders, which is currently one of the largest and most influential associations in the country. After statehood, HBA expanded its reach, ultimately becoming the
BIA-Hawaii in 1979. Today, the BIA-Hawaii promotes our 450 members through advocacy and education, and provides community outreach programs to enhance the quality of life for the people of Hawaii. Our members are developers, general contractors, specialty c o n t ra c t o r s , s u p p l i e r s , realtors, architects, financial institutions and a host of
other professionals who service the building industry. This unique mix enables members to network across their respective sectors and also provides the bridging of diverse interests into a common whole allowing us to address the many challenges facing the industry with a uniquely balanced perspective. BIA-Hawaii’s promise is to provide sales and
marketing opportunities for our members’ success. We have at least six general membership meetings a year, where members can hear the latest industry news and meet and network with other members, and wildly successful networking nights. We are also recognized statewide for our four signature events: the Home Building & Remodeling Show, the Renaissance Building and Remodeling Awards, the Remodel It Right Remodel It Green Expo, and the Parade of Homes. One of our core functions is our advocacy and government relations program. Hawaii’s construction industry is one of the top economic drivers in the State and any disruption to the industry has far reaching consequences for our overall economy. As a memberdriven organi-zation, one of the valuable resources the BIA-Hawaii provides is representation at all levels of government. Some of our recent successes have kept residential fire sprinklers optional in all new single-family homes,
tightened up the ownerbuilder require-ments, and added construction industry representatives to the State Building Code Council. We w o r k t o m i n i m i z e unnecessary mandates that add to the cost of housing and construction. Our Construction Training Center of the Pacificis a comprehensive training and educational center that provides academic and vocational training, career counseling, job awareness, and related supportive services that address critical labor shortages in the rapidly expanding construction industry. Our state-of-the-art facility, located in Waipahu, has five classrooms and a workshop available to members and companies to conduct training and continuing education. Fo r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , visit our website at www. biahawaii.org.
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The beginnings By brandon elefante Council Member City and County of Honolulu
Brandon Elefante, on his first day as a Council Member, conferring with Council member Ron Menor.
Aloha, and Mabuhay! I am honored to have this opportunity to write a regular column for the FilAm Courier. On a monthly basis, I will be able to share with you a little bit about myself, updates related to the Honolulu City Council and Honolulu Hale as well as my personal perspectives on current city issues. It was over 55 years ago that my grandparents, Adolfo and Agustina Elefante, immigrated from the Ilocos Sur region of the Philippines to Hawaii in pursuit of a better life. My
My name is Corinne L. and I have been suffering from chronic headaches for years. I finally decided to see a chiropractor to help me. I was on pain medications every day and my headaches were just temporarily relieved. My doctor thought the pain may have come from inside my head so we did an MRI. The results were negative. Dr. Holland, my chiropractor, ordered some x-rays for my neck. Lo and behold, the vertebraes in my neck were out of line. After the first appointment I felt immediate relief. I slept the entire night woke up pain free. I am not on pain medication anymore. After 10 sessions of massages and a program of neck exercises, I can say that the pain is completely gone. Thank you Dr. Holland! Corinne L.
The new Council member at his Honolulu Hale Office
grandparents, who have been happily married for over 56 years, are now enjoying what retirement life has to offer. There are many things I admire about them but foremost of which was their courage to venture into a foreign country to pursue their dreams. I also credit them and my mother for instilling in me the important values of respect, hard work, and love. With their support I was fortunate to attend good public schools, have the opportunity to attend college on the mainland, and then return back home to work full-time and obtain an MBA degree from Chaminade University of Honolulu. I am sure many of you have similar stories about how living in America has enabled you and your family to grow in productive and meaningful ways. Since taking office on November 12th I have been quite busy with various meetings and events. Nonetheless, I would like to take this opportunity to share with you my role as a City Councilmember. The primary purpose of the City Council is to set policies and laws, and collectively we are charged with the duty to “serve and advance the general welfare, health, happiness, safety and aspirations of the city’s inhabitants, present and future, and to encourage their full participation in the process of governance.” As Councilmember for District 8, I have the responsibility of not only serving the people of Aiea, Pearl City, and Waipahu, whom I personally represent,
but residents of the entire c o u n t y. W i t h O a h u ’s population approaching one million, and Filipinos being the largest ethnic group, there are both opportunities and challenges that lie ahead of us. Issues such as transportation, affordable housing, upgrading our infrastructure, improving our parks and public spaces, and making Honolulu a healthier city are foremost on my agenda. As one of four members of Filipino ancestry on the City Council, I am hopeful that we can work together to improve the lives of our citizens and keep our city’s economy vibrant and thriving. I am excited to work with my colleagues on the Council, as well as the many constituents that I serve, to make Honolulu an even greater city than it is today. Lastly, please remember to spend time with your loved ones, family, and friends this Christmas Season. Christmas is my favorite holiday of the year and I want to wish you and your family a safe and Happy Holiday Season. God Bless you and your families.
Brandon Elefante represents Honolulu City Council District VIII which covers Aiea, Pearl City, Waipahu.
He is
an active member of several organizations including the Filipino Junior Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii. He can be reached at (808) 768-5008 and his email is belefante@ honolulu.gov.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 1-15, 2015 • PAGE 9
NEW YEARS MESSAGE FOR FIL-AM COURIER By SENATOR BRIAN SCHATZ
Aloha and happy holidays to all! For all the gift-giving, I know that the greatest gift I’ve received is being lucky enough to have grown up in Hawaii with its many communities and having the wonderful family and friends that I do. Our state is the most diverse in the nation and everyone who lives here benefits from it. It is always fun for me to attend events like the Filipino Fiesta and Parade, the FilCom Center’s Bayanihan Gala honoring great leaders in the community, and the many neighbor island events. It is very important to remember, celebrate and pass along to the next generation who we are as a people. Looking toward the future, I would be so happy to see groundbreaking for the much anticipated Kauai Philippine Cultural Center.
FROM SENATOR BRIAN SCHATZ
So too we must honor the past. That’s why one of the first bills I introduced was to ensure full veteran’s benefits to Filipinos who fought along side American troops during the Second World War. These veterans and their families have waited for decades to receive the recognition and compensation that they deserve. My bill would make sure America keeps its promise and honors their brave service. Our ties reach around the Pacific and we are connected by the aloha spirit. The impacts of Super Typhoon Yolanda and Typhoon Ruby on the Philippines have been enormous. We have seen the compassion and strength of the Filipino people as well as the tremendous heart of the community here in Hawaii. As of April 2014, the United States provided
more than $90 million in humanitarian assistance to the Philippines for Yolanda and immediately following Ruby an additional $750 thousand for emergency assistance. We will continue to support the recovery effort with public and private resources as urged by the Resolution I introduced in the U.S. Senate. Our ties remain strong even while families continue to be separated by America’s broken immigration system for years. I am sure you have read that the President has taken executive action to help keep together the families of over 5 million immigrants who meet basic legal requirements and give them the authorization they need to work. This is a step in the right direction, but we need a permanent solutionfrom Congress. I was proud to vote with the Senate
to pass a comprehensive immi-gration reform bill that would have reunited families and cleared the family visa backlog, but the House did not take action. This is a priority that cannot wait. Nothing is more important to me than being an effective voice for you in the U.S. Senate. That is why I am honored to have been appointed to serve on the Senate Appropriations Committee where I can work to ensure that we move forward with national priorities that are important to you and to ensure that Hawaii receives its fair share of federal funding. At the local level, we’re eager to help you with your needs in working with the federal government whether it be assistance with immigration or visas, or anything else, please contact my Senate staff in Honolulu or in Washington
at (808) 523-2061 or (202) 224-3934. It is pretty amazing that the year 2015 is upon us. Things move pretty fast nowadays. For me that is a reminder of the importance of slowing down when you can, sharing time with your family, making new friends and renewing old ones. For all the change that surrounds us, there is no substitute for a hug and a good conversation. From my wife Linda and me, Kapayapaan, Kasaganaan at Kasiyahan sa Bagong Taon and Naimbag a Baro a Tawen and we hope to see you in 2015.
PAGE 10 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 1-15, 2015
The Holiday season is a time to rejoice in the tie We are grateful for our Fil-Am Courier family and the ho the stories we share in every issue. We are ever c to reflect the continuing transforma We wish you and the entire Filipino community -- who we a
Maligayang Pasko at
Mary Llanos Cordero Publisher
Bennette Espineli Misalucha Managing Editor
Armand Busmente Director of Design
Alice Llanos Busmente Production Manager
Radiant Cordero Assistant Editor
Gabe de Liso
Jeff Orig
James Ramos
Edna Alikpala
Rhoda Yabez Alvarez, Esq.
Dr. Patricia Halagao
Zeny Muyot
Angie Santiago
Perfecto Yasay Jr.
Conrad Abuel
Leo Gozar
Marnelli Joy Basilio
Bernie Caalim
Randy Cortez
Mary Cruzada
Jeremy Zane
Gladys Quinto Marrone
Gladys Menor
John Pagaragan
Judy Relosimon
Alfred Sison
Jane Clement
Virgie Cruzada
Dr. Margarita Hopkins
Liza Trinidad
Brandon
Sandra
Marynell V
THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 1-15, 2015 • PAGE 11
es that bind families and communities together. opes and dreams our writers continue to weave through committed to excellence in journalism and promise ations taking place in our Islands. are proud to serve --- the merriest of the Christmas season!
Manigong Bagong Taon!
David Cordero
Florence McCollom
Jesse Bacon II
Ric Agnes
Elefante
Sagisi
Valenzuela
Danielle Evangelista Copy Editor
Rudy Bautista Accounting
Lydia Kamiya Sales
Nancy Bernal
Cesar Bonilla
Anabel Gasmen Cabebe
Antonia Agbannawag
Paul Alimbuyao
Ria Baldevia
Dr. Rickie Camara
Eriza Bareng
Christian Evangelista
Anabel Cabebe
Ben Gutierrez
Kathleen Lee
Carmela Minaya
Nicole Velasco
Jason Ubay
Michi Villaruz
Kit Zulueta
Mil Asuncion
Daniel Eisen
Gabriella Wright
Debra Barayuga Agoo
Jaime De Jesus
Alfredo Evangelista
PAGE 12 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 1-15, 2015
by Dr. Rickie Camara
Here we are: 2015 and you say, “time flies.” It doesn’t, really. From inside, time just flows as it always has like a river from one ocean of eternity to another. From outside, we stand at the banks alongside the water and witness that flow of time and space that we call our life. What really ‘flies’ is our mind. We miss the joy of the boat ride when we are endlessly distracted and interrupted by the changing nature of the shoreline of appearances. With our new technologies, we can now be interrupted ever more at any time and at any place. There is a place in us,
Back to the Present however that is serene, quiet, calm and placid like a mountain-top lake. A place of tranquility and sobriety where time stands still and all you have are precious moments that reflect on the waters’ clear surface. It is called the ‘present’ and I sincerely wish this gift for all of us. Being present is simply being aware of all the inner sensations we feel, of our breath, of our thoughts that come and go. It is simply being aware at every moment without reacting or judging; to simply witness our life. It is to simply feel the energy that we are; that energy that emanates
from every vibrating atom and molecule within us and around us; that energy from where we come from and where we return to. Being grounded in self-awareness is the only resolution you will need to improve your life and the world around. We spend too much time ruminating about the past and anxiously anticipating the future. This robs us of the joy of the present. It is human nature to believe that the future is more important; but, in reality, the future does not exist. Can you say that you have experienced the future? No one can! It is with self-awareness
and living in the present that we will know what is good and what is bad for us. We can only know what is stressful and what is calming if we continuously monitor our inner states. We can then assess personally and experientially which foods, relationships, activities, etc. are toxic and which are healing. The answers are all inside. Prosperity is in the present. And what about the world? We have big problems like war, terrorism, domestic violence, hunger, financial inequality, and pollution that are a result of human behavior. All those problems have their origin in human consciousness; or rather, the lack of it. To make this world a better place, we only need to take responsibility for our own consciousness. To make sure that we ourselves don’t dwell in the house of desire, greed, anger and pride. Practice non-violence and already the world is a more peaceful place. Live with integrity and truthfulness and already the world is a
safer, more trusting place. Simply be the kind of person that you want others and the world to be. May we all have a Happy, Self-Aware, more Fully Present New Year!
Dr. Rickie Camara is a Board-Certified psychiatrist and Bikram Yoga teacher. He teaches yoga classes at Hotyoga8 in Kaimuki and has a yoga-aligned health coaching and counseling practice in Kahala.You can hear him every Friday on the radio at KNDI between 8 and 8:30 a.m. on the Medical Forum with FlorMartinez. Email contact at rickiec@pixi.com.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 1-15, 2015 • PAGE 13
By Nancy Bernal New Year! January, 2015 starts out with two great concerts! •••• The musical group Hiroshima - will be in concert on January 24 at The Magic of Polynesia Showroom in the Waikiki Beachcomber Resort at 8:45 p.m. presented by Apaulo Music Productions. Known around the world for their distinct and unique sound, this double Grammynominated group features June Kuramoto (the world’s greatest koto-player) and l o c a l ke y b o a r d g e n i u s , Kimo Cornwell and other fantastic musicians. Tickets are available at TIX.com and (951) 696-0184. For more infor-mation, go to apaulo music.com •••• Jim Brickman cele-brates twenty years of his musical journey in the entertainment industry with a concert in Honolulu for one night only on January 31 at 7:30 p.m. at The Blaisdell Concert Hall. “Love Around the Piano” will feature Jim Brickman performing a variety of his hit tunes in his warm and personable style. Tickets are available at The Blaisdell Box Office, Ticketmaster or by calling 800-745-3000. For more information about Jim Brickman and “Love Around the Piano”, visit www.JimBrickman.com •••• People who make New Years Resolutions always have the best intentions. Take time out of your busy schedule to make changes in 2015 so that this year is full of happiness and success for you. Here are some resolutions from Celebrities and HighProfile People. •••• JIM BRICKMAN (Pianist and Composer) - “I am seeking soothing calmness to my life wherever I can. Listeners find my music soothing, now it’s time to soothe myself.” ••••
Jim Brickman
Ashley Moser
Yasmin Dar
MARTIN NIEVERA (Professional Singer - Philippines and USA) “Instead of wishing and wanting for a blessing, I will be one.” •••• TROY LAURETA (Musician, Singer, Composer working with Charice, Ariana Grande, Deborah Cox and more) - “My Resolution would have to be to continue working, stay grounded and represent Filipinos in the music industry.”
•••• ASHLEY MOSER (News Anchor/Reporter for KITV 4) - “I need more sleep! This year I will be better about going to bed on time. I want to be healthier and getting a good night’s sleep is key to doing just that.” •••• AL WATERSON (Profes-sional Emcee and Entertainer) - “I will try to eat healthier so I can enjoy a long and happy life with my wife, Nancy.” •••• Best wishes to everyone for a healthy, happy and successful 2015! For now, That’s Entertainment!
(If you would like to submit entertainment information, please contact Nancy Bernal at 947-5736 or e-mail her at Nancy Bernal@aol.com)
C H E E S A L A U R E TA (Professional Singer) - “My New Years Resolution is to strive to be better in all aspects of my life - musically, physically, mentally and spiritually and to be more giving and forgiving.” •••• JORDAN SEGUNDO (Professional Singer, Actor and On-Camera Host) “My 2015 Resolution is to stay consistent with my workouts, eat healthier and write more music!” YASMIN DAR (Professional Actress, Model and On-Camera Host) - “My 2015 New Years Resolution is to practice more patience with my husband.” •••• MICHAEL PAULO (Internationally-Acclaimed Saxophonist and Concert Producer) - “My 2015 New Years Resolution is to finish my record that I have been working on for four years.” •••• AUGIE T (Comedian) - “To be a better husband, dad and friend. I also want to pay off my taxes, lose 20 lbs. and write a new one hour comedy show and sell out The Waikiki Shell in August.” •••• MELISSA PAULO (Professional Actress) “As every year comes and goes, I have so much to be grateful for. This new year is no different and my continued resolution is to find the magic and joy in every moment.”
Martin Nievera
Hiroshima
PAGE 14 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 1-15, 2015
By Daniel B. Eisen, PhD Pacific University
Recent events across the nation have brought racial and ethnic tensions, often ignored by the popular discourse, to the forefront of our nation’s discussions. As these tensions increase, our communities would benefit from individuals forgoing their usual New Year’s resolutions of eating healthier, being more active, and saving money, for a resolution of trying one’s best to create and maintain racial harmony. While accomplishing this may seem easy, anti-racism work can be difficult. Therefore, here are some suggestions for working towards this goal:
MAKE RACIAL HARMONY YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION Explore Your History and Your Identity. Engage in discussions, read books, or watch movies that explore the history of Filipino/as throughout the world. This knowledge p r ov i d e s a c o n t e x t f o r Filipino/a’s current social situation, empathy for the marginalized, and strength in knowing how individuals persevered through waves of colonization and oppression. Many have found Carlos Buloson’s America’s in the Heart to be transformative in exploring history, culture, and identity.
Acknowledge that Race and Racism Exist. While most scholars a g r e e t h a t ra c e i s n o t biologically real, it is important to recognize that the socially creation of racial groups has real effects. Although the colorblind, “ w e ’ r e a l l h u m a n s ,” approach may reject the biological arguments about race, it fails to acknowledge the oppression, suffering,
and barriers that groups have and continue to encounter. For example, colorblind arguments ignore the colonization of the Philippines, which has led many Filipino/as to be ashamed of their ethnicity and strive to emulate whiteness. Talking about race does not perpetuate racism; it facilitates dialogues that work to dismantling the oppressive system. Understand The Subtle Nature of Racism. Racism has become less overt, often presenting itself through microagressions— subtle slights that send denigrating messages to people of color. For example, telling a first generation Filipino/a “you speak good English” supports the stereotype that Filipino/ as cannot speak “proper” English. Understanding the subtle nature of racism opens one’s eyes to the daily occurrences of racial injustice. Know that You Will Make Mistakes. No one is perfect. We are shaped by the societies that have maintained racial oppression. It is important to accept that mistakes will occur. Mistakes are learning opportunities, not moments that define one as a racist.
When a mistake occurs acknowledge it and attempt to learn from it. Acknowledge the Pain Caused By Your Mistakes. When you commit a racial or ethnic slight, it is important to apologize for your actions. Avoid using egocentric apologies, as they focus on the perpetrator rather than the victim. Instead of saying “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to offend you. What I meant was…” try “I’m sorry I (insert action). I realize my actions support (insert stereotype). I will work to correct that behavior.” The latter apology focuses on the victim and acknowledges the pain that was experienced. This can open up lines of communication, build relationships, and create paths for future improvement. Although I usually do not create a New Year’s resolution, this year my resolution will be to work to create and maintain racial harmony. Considering the current state of affairs, I hope that many others will join me in adopting this resolution.
Daniel Eisen grew up in Ewa Beach and graduated from Campbell High School before attending Pacific University, Oregon to earn his BA in Sociology. After living in Oregon for four years, he returned to Hawaii to earn his PhD in Sociology from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, where his doctoral work examined young adults’ development of a Filipino ethnic identity in Hawaii. Daniel Eisen is currently an Assistant Professor of Sociology and Assistant Dean of Strategic Initiatives at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 1-15, 2015 • PAGE 15
The Honolulu Boy Choir celebrated its 40th Anniversary at Central Union Church on December 20. It was a jam packed concert and the rest of the audience watched in a standing room place. Tourists, alumni, and celebrities alike flocked to watch and hear the angelic voices of the choir. Henry Kapono was a special guest performer as well as alumni of the choir.
Chantelle Bisho and her son Jace were ready for the festivities at a Christmas party in Pauoa Valley.
The Llanos children are all together again for the Holidays. Pictured are Michael Jr, Marché, and Mailyn. Joey Gomes and Jan Andrea Garo take advantage of the beautiful decorations that are everywhere this Holiday season.
Christina Torres shows off her Christmas gift from her talented significant other, PJ Tan.
Aira Kariah Iglesias and her aunt, Christy Galsim Cabalfin, spent their last days and weeks in transit and spending time with family in Hong Kong.
Julius Mina, Anmercil Anne Almosara, Katrina Lopez, Leth Ulep Evangelista-Callanta, and James Irene Almosara had a full Holiday schedule as they were seen all around town from the Philippine Consulate in Nuuanu to Waikiki to Chinatown. Here, they take a break from entertaining partygoers at the Chinese Cultural Plaza to pose together.
PAGE 16 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 1-15, 2015
By Angie DYTIOCO Santiago
The Planning Committee: Paul Alimbuyao (President – FCCH - Event Co-Chair), Hernando Tan (Vice-President – COVO), Maria Etrata (President – UFCH)- Event CoChair), Consul General Gina Jamoralin, Edna Alikpala (2014 Chair – PCCCH and Overall Event Chair), Alex Vergara (President – OFCC - Event Co-Chair). Jeffrey DeMesa, Angie Santiago (Menu Chair), Rossi Patton, Gladys Menor, Cecilia Villafuerte, Lynne Gutierrez, Joy Santos, Amelia Casamina Cabatu (2015 Chair – PCCCH), and Mimi and Leo Gozar (Event Director). Not pictured: May Mizuno - COVO President and Event Co-Chair.
Joe Quibuyen (UFCH Governor and 2015 -2017 President of Confederation of Ilocano Associations, Inc. (CIASI) known as Samahang Ilocano, Angie Santiago (UFCH Governor and Past President of Bulacan Circle and Associates of Hawaii), and Zhoydell Magaoay (UFCH Secretary and President of the United Bacarreneos of Hawaii).
Consul General Gina Jamoralin receives communion from Father Mario Raquepo.
December 16 Paskuhan sa Konsulado a Huge Success for Local Host Organizations For the first time ever, five major Filipino umbrella organizations in Hawaii – the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii (PCCCH); the Congress of Visayan Organization (COVO);
the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH); the Oahu Filipino Community Council (OFCC); and the United Filipino Council of Hawaii (UFCH) became “One Filipino” and in partnership with Consul
General Gina Jamoralin with the Philippine Consulate General in Honolulu (PCG) hosted Paskuhan sa Konsulado (Christmas at the Consulate). The Paskuhan sa Konsulado organizers chose December 16 to coincide with the traditional Simbang Gabi in the hope that this event will be perpetuated as an annual event and
would bring together many Filipino organizations and their members to celebrate the spirit of Christmas. Simbáng Gabi (Filipino for “Night Mass”) is a devotional nine-day series of Masses practiced by Roman Catholics and Aglipayans in the Philippines in anticipation of Christmas and to honor the Blessed Virgin Mary. The masses are held daily from
THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 1-15, 2015 • PAGE 17
2015 PCCCH Leaders were installed by ConGen Gina Jamoralin: Amelia Casamina Cabatu (2015 Chair), Melga Gendrano (Vice Chair), Rossi Patton (Secretary), William Cudal (Auditor), Cecilia Villafuerte (Asst. Treasurer), Gladys Menor (Asst. Secretary), Atty. Abelina Shaw, Allan Alvarez (Treasurer), and Edna Alikpala (2014 Chair).
December 16 to December 24, and occur at different times ranging from as early as 3:00 to 5:00 in the morning. On the last day of the Simbang Gabi, which is Christmas Eve, the service is instead called Misa de Gallo (Spanish for “Rooster’s Mass”). T h e Pa s k u h a n e v e n t started with a Mass officiated by Father Mario Raquepo of St. Stephen Catholic Church followed by the singing of the national anthems led by the Dynamic Trio. Everyone enjoyed delicious traditional Filipino foods donated by COVO, OFCC, PCCCH, UFCH, the Renato and Maria Etrata Foundation, Bulacan Circle & Associates of Hawaii (BCAH), New Marcos Town Association of Hawaii, Urdaneta City Club of Hawaii, Adela Salacup, Carlota Ader, Joe Quibuyen,Maggie Domingo, and Mimi Gozar – Manzano Collections. There were also two lechon donated by the PCG. Various door prizes were given away and were donated by Edith G u d o y, F i r s t H a w a i i a n Bank, Hernando Tan, LBC Air Cargo, Paul and Ann Alimbuyao, Rose Gallanto, Seafood City, and Western Union. Close to 400 guests were in attendance. The event also included Filipino cultural entertainment provided by COVO, BCAH, Pintig Himig, Fani and Marie Tedios, Miss Oahu Filipina 2014 Lovely May Orsino, Farrah Velasco, Christopher Lum, Marissa Lum, Daniel Lum, Muzic Drive Entertainment, and by Our Lady of Manaoag, led by Music Director Josie Sumait. Amelia Casamina a n d G l e n n S a g ayo d o r o served as emcees.
The Parol (star lantern) contest winners were: Grand Prize - Maria Etrata (UFCH); 1st place – Angie Santiago (UFCH); 2nd place - Hernando Tan (COVO); and consolation prizes went to Paul Alimbuyao (FCCH), Rubing Dytioco (BCAH), and Kit Zulueta. OFCC teamed up with UFCH and took home the 1st place in the Impromptu Christmas Caroling Contest. COVO bagged the 2nd place and the PCCCH/FCCH tandem took the 3rd place. Richard Ancog from COVO ended up winning the grand prize which was a 32” Samsung TV. Everyone agreed that Paskuhan sa Konsulado was a huge success. Various organizations stayed behind and joined as one to clean up after the fun event. ONE FILIPINO
Angie Dytioco Santiago, our Gathering Place columnist, is a U.H. Manoa graduate. She is currently a Governor of the United Filipino Council of Hawaii (UFCH), a Public Relations Officer for the Bulacan Circle & Associates of Hawaii (BCAH) and a member of the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii (PCCCH). She served as 1st Vice President of the Oahu Filipino Community Council (OFCC) from 2013 to 2014 and as the BCAH President from 2010 to 2012. She is the daughter of Angel &Rubing Dytioco and is married with two sons. She enjoys photography and participating in cultural and social activities and events.
OFCC/UFCH: Letty Ancog, Susan Tatlonghari, Baybee Hufana-Ablan, Loida Yamamoto, Angie Santiago, Rossi Patton, Davelyn and Ador Quijano, Marienne and Alex Vergara (2014 OFCC President).
Leo Gozar, Angie Santiago, Hernando Tan (COVO’s Vice President), Paul Alimbuyao (FCCH’s President), LethCallanta, Katrina Lopez, Maria Etrata (UFCH’s President), Consul General Gina Jamoralin, Edna Alikpala (PCCCH 2014 Chair), Amelia Casamina Cabatu (PCCCH 2015 Chair), AnmercilRomaguera, Julius Mina, Joy Espinosa-Santos, and Jeffrey DeMesa.
Past Presidents of Bulacan Circle and Associates of Hawaii Rafael Ignacio and Angel Dytioco and 2012 – 2016 President Albert Roque entertained the audience with a Balagtasan, a poetic debate verse in Tagalog on whether Santa Claus is fictional or real.
Ronald Bautista, Juliet Balignasay, Consul Roberto Bernardo, Roland Cabanero, Efren Brillo, Capt. Rey Dela Cruz, and Col Roland Orengo.
Richard Ancog (OFCC 2nd VP and Past President of the United Visayan Community of Hawaii, Inc. was the lucky grand prize winner of a 32” flat screen television donated by Paul and Maryann Alimbuyao.
The COVO Serenaders: FaniTedios, Hernando Tan, Richard Ancog, Valerie Ancog, Lilia Sanchez, LeteciaAncog, Flora Villahermosa, Dawn Fuentes, and Marie Tedios.
PAGE 18 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 1-15, 2015
If you would like to have your event listed on this Statewide Calendar, please contact Edna Alikpala at (808) 262.3669 or email her at alikpalaedna@ hotmail.com
STATEWIDE COMMUNITY CALENDAR Compiled by Edna Alikpala
OAHU
December 21, 2014 Filipino Association of University Women (FAUW), PASKO! At Honolulu Museum of Arts (former Academy of Arts), 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Free admission to Pasko and Museum courtesy of Bank of Hawaii’s monthly family Sunday. December 21, 2014 Sarrateneos Association of Hawaii, Christmas Ball and presentation of Mrs. Sarrat Hawaii pageant contestants, Hawaii Okinawa Center, 6 p.m. Ticket cost: $40. Contact: Lawrence Patricio 688-3626, Victor Cadiz 225-2150 February 7-17, 2015 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii, 25th Annual Trade Mission to the Philippines, visiting Manila, Camarines Norte, Cebu and Palawan, to be led by Lieutenant Governor Shan Tsutsui, Consul
General Gina Jamoralin and Paul Alimbuyao, President. For more information, call Paul Alimbuyao, 754-8691 February 28, 2015 The Lady in Red presented by Vogue Pygmalion at Hawaii Prince Hotel. Ticket cost: $65. Contact: Mimi Gozar 312-0778. March 6, 2015 Hawaii Filipino Women’s Club, 61st Anniversary and 41st annual Terno Ball at Ala Moana Hotel. 6 p.m. Featuring the contests for 2015 Miss Terno and 2015 Mr. Barong Tagalog and presentation of awards to outstanding women in the fields of education, business, healthcare and medicine and community involvement. Ticket cost: $65. Contact: Angie Borromeo 636-9910, Lina Mercado 382-7751. March 31, 2015 Deadline for submission of scholarship applications to the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii Foundation. Scholarship applications will be mailed to all State of Hawaii Department of Education high schools and all private schools. Interested graduating high school seniors of 2015 can mail their applications to P.O. Box 1572, Honolulu, HI 96806-1572. Contact: Edna Alikpala, 282-3669. May 16, 2015 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii presents the 2015 Filipino Entrepreneur of the Year, 2015 Young Filipino Entrepreneur of the Year and Scholarship Awards, Hawaii Prince Hotel. Contact: Bernadette Fajardo, 342-8090
THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 1-15, 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.
HELP WANTED
for sale Eternal Garden
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.
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
SHORT ON CASH?
Business Oportunity. $400+ per transaction. Call 295-0577
services INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT?
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Former Family Court & Circuit Court Judge Rey Graulty. Call 674-2637 for information.
WEDDINGS-ANYTIME, ANYWHERE. Judge Graulty (retired) call 778-8510 to schedule.
PAGE 20 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • DECEMBER 1-15, 2014