PAGE 2 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 16-30, 2016
STATEWIDE COMMUNITY CALENDAR Compiled by AMELIA CASAMINA CABATU
OAHU NOVEMBER 16, 2016 A Welcome Reception for the Officers and Crew of the BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF17). Hosted by the Philippine Consulate General Honolulu In Cooperation with the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii (PCCCH) and the AFP Liaison Office to USPACOM. 5:30 PM at the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Pier B-25/26 Honolulu, HI. Limited attendance to persons that have already reserved and submitted security request forms for a base pass. Attire: Aloha, Summer Whites/ Equivalent (Military) For more information Contact Persons: Allan Alvarez 392-8230, Amelia Casamina Cabatu 282-2033, Philippine Consulate General 5956316 or email: honolulupc@ hawaii.twcbc.com NOVEMBER 18, 2016 Kalayaan Philippines Hawaii International presents The Search for Little Miss, Junior Miss Teen, Miss Teen, Miss, Mrs., Ms. Hawaii Pacific USA 2016 & Mrs. & Ms. Philippines Hawaii International 2016 & Presentation of 3 Gawad Parangal 2016 Pacific Beach Hotel Grand Ballroom; Dinner: 6:45 PM; Show: 7:30 PM; Cost: $65.00. Contact Persons: Ben Pulido 421-9747, Richard Borromeo 457-8265, Pike Velasco 554-9646, Lynne Gutierez 728-1770
NOVEMBER 19, 2016 NAMI, INC. Nursing Advocates & Mentors, Inc. 15th Anniversary Gala and Appreciation of RN Review Class Volunteer Lecturers & Recognition of New RNs and Review Graduates. 6:00 PM; Banyan Tree Show room, Hale Koa Hotel. Contact Persons: Bea Ramos-Razon 808 778-6291, Jun Obaldo 808 277-7495, Bong Curameng 808 383-0135
NOVEMBER 19, 2016 Ohana Day Celebration presented by the Reiyukai America at the Hawaii Plantation Village 94-695 Waipahu Street, Waipahu. 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Fun for the whole family and a fashion show featuring Big Island Artist Iris Gil Viacrusis, Food trucks, Dances, Arts & Crafts. For More information call Hawaii’s Plantation Village at 677-0110
NOVEMBER 19, 2016 Filipino Business Women Association (FBWA) celebrates its 33rd Annual Kimona Ball and FBWA Business Women of the Year Award Presentation. Hawaii Price Hotel. 6:00 PM; Contact Persons: President- Nancy Walch 778-3832, Kimona Ball Chairwoman Armi Oliver Farinas 221-0667, Co-Chair Elsa Talavera 358-8964
NOVEMBER 20, 2016 The International Filipino-American Asian Cultural Association of Hawaii will be celebrating their 5th Year Anniversary and Coronation Ball & Reaffirmation of New Officers at the Pacific Beach Hotel Grand Ballroom from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Contact Persons are President Wilma Ibay (2212407), and members Linda Jakosalem (6799511), Becky Schmidt (291-4579)
NOVEMBER 19, 2016 Music & Arts Training Center of Hawaii (MATCH’s) 3rd annual talent showcase recital; 7:00 PM at the Light of the World Ministries Auditorium in Mapunapuna 970 B Ahua Street Honolulu, Hawaii. MATCH is a 501 (C) (3) non-profit organization, so all donations to the school are tax deductible. Contact Persons: Stephen Callo 351-0972 or Angeli 389-8936
NOVEMBER 27, 2016 Aloha Dinner for the Honorable Mayor Alfredo Valdez Jr. of San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte Philippines, Empress Restaurant 100 N. Beretania Street Honolulu, HI 5:30 PM Cost: $45.00 Contact Persons: Ditas Cagaoan 554-5656, Edith Gudoy 841-2881, Faye Cudal 783-7552, Lita Valdez 848-9959, Maggie Domingo 783-0068
Amelia Casamina Cabatu is a community leader and a familiar face, often hosting community events and celebrations. She is a veteran radio announcer and hosts the “FIL-AM COURIER COMMUNITY HOUR” on 1270 KNDI Radio every 1st Sunday of the month. In addition to other affiliations, Amelia is the former Chair of the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii. She owns and operates an adult daycare business and is happily married to Arnold Cabatu. They live in Salt Lake and are blessed with one daughter, Armay. Please send your event information to acmina808@gmail.com or call her at (808) 282-2033.
NOVEMBER 29, 2016 Finding Our Heroes - BGeneral Francisco Licuanan Jr. Memorial Collection, Philippines Guerrilla Files From the U.S. National Archives, Moot Courtroom William S. Richardson School of Law. 2515 Dole St.; 11:45 AM – 1:15 PM; Project Management by the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, Filipino War Veterans Foundation, GeoEstate Development Corporation Contact Person: Rose Churma email: rosechurma@mac .com DECEMBER 3, 2016 Candonians of Hawaii Installation & Christmas Party. Dole Cannery Pomaikai Grand Ballroom 735 Iwilei Rd, Honolulu, HI. 6:00 PM-11:00 PM; Cost: $60.00; Contact Persons: Grace Go 389-1989, Pam Pacquing 498-3098, Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090 DECEMBER 4, 2016 Fil-Am Courier Community Hour on KNDI 1270 AM Radio; 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM. Log on to www.kndi.com and/or www.filamcourier.com and Social Media FB Page Fil-Am Courier with your host Amelia Casamina Cabatu, for more info call Amelia at (808) 282-2033 DECEMBER 4, 2016 Pasko sa Filcom brought to you by the FilCom Center. 94-428 Mokuola St. Waipahu HI.; 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM; Contact Person: Arceli Rebollido 680-0451 or website http:/ /www.filcom.org DECEMBER 10, 2016 Adult Foster Homecare Association of Hawaii (AFHA) Christmas Celebration and the 2017-2018 Installation of Officers. Pacific Beach Hotel Grand Ballroom; 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM.; Contact persons: Maribel Tan 384-0494, Norma Tan 358-4985 DECEMBER 14, 2016 Filipino Business Women’s Association (FBWA) Annual Christmas Party and Birthday Celebrations for December Born Members. 6:00 PM; Empress Restaurant (Chinese Cultural Plaza) Bring a grab bag worth $20 for a gift exchange. Great social networking opportunity. Cost: $40.00 Contact Persons: Letty Saban 255-9429 or lettysaban@yahoo.com, Elsa Talavera 3588964, Lina Mercado 382-7751 DECEMBER 16, 2016 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH) Annual Christmas Celebration; 6:00 PM; Pagoda Floating Restaurant 1525 Rycroft St. Honolulu HI. Contact Person: Vanessa Kop 256-0370, Bernadette Fajardo 342-809 DECEMBER 17, 2016 Toys 4 Tots Fundraising, Zumbathon Charity Event, Hawaii Yacht Club. 1739 C Ala Moana Blvd. Honolulu, HI; 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM; Christmas in Paradise, Vendors are Welcome. Contact Person: Rosemarie Mendoza, FB message her on her FB Timeline. DECEMBER 18, 2016 Santo Domingo Association celebrates their annual Christmas Party and Affirmation of New Officers. 6:00 PM – 11: 00 PM; Bird of Paradise Restaurant in the Prince Golf Course in Ewa. Cost: $50.00; Contact Person: Isabel Rivera Phu 223-2888
DECEMBER 20, 2016 2nd Sakada Day Celebration & the 110th Year Anniversary of the 1st Arrival of Sakadas to Hawaii FilCom Center in Waipahu. 6:30 PM; Presented by Philippine Consulate General in coordination with the many leading Filipino Community Organizations headed by the Oahu Filipino Community Council (OFCC) Contact Persons: Leo Gozar 6306268, Zhoydell Magaoay 478-9802, Mae Mizuno 741-4503, Amelia Casamina Cabatu 282-2033 COMMUNITY CALENDAR 2017 JANUARY 1, 2017 Fil-Am Courier Community Hour on KNDI 1270 AM Radio; 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM. Log on to www.kndi.com and/or www.filamcourier.com and Social Media FB Page Fil-Am Courier with your host Amelia Casamina Cabatu. For more info call Amelia at (808) 282-2033 JANUARY 14, 2017 Taste of Kalihi, a block party in the heart of Kalihi presented by the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH). Save the date, more details to come. For more information contact Chair, Sam Acosta 3061428, Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090 JANUARY 28, 2017 Gunglo Ti Mannurat nga Ilocano (GUMIL) Hawaii and Annak ti Kailokuan ti America (AKA) Miss and Mrs. GUMIL and AKA Coronation Night Sunset Lanai, Camp Smith Honolulu, Hawaii. Cost $40.00; Contact Persons: Mr. Froebel Garcia President of GUMIL 808 386-6857, Mrs. Pacita Saludes President of AKA 808 779-6678 FEBRUARY 17-28, 2017 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii 27th Annual Filipino Trade Mission to the Philippines. The trade mission aims to strengthen the business opportunities between Hawaii and the Philippines. Planned itinerary includes visits to Manila, Davao, Laoag, Vigan, Candon, and Baguio City. Official Travel Agency is Noble TravelTeresita Noble. Contact Persons: Paul Alimbuyao 754-8691, Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090 MARCH 24, 2017 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii 23rd Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament Ewa Beach Golf Club 91-050 Fort Weaver Road, Ewa Beach Hawaii. The proceeds from the tournament will fund the Foundation’s scholarship program. Looking for interested players, Contact Persons: Eddie Agas 783-3327, Jack Legal 284-6832 APRIL 15, 2017 Filipino Women’s Club of Hawaii Foundation (Formerly known as the Hawaii Filipino Women’s Club) Annual Terno Ball Ala Moana Hotel Hibiscus Ballroom. 6:00 PM; Contact Persons: Nelly Pongco Liu 228-7808, Carlota Ader 797-4381, Mercy Mullins 226-1320 MAY 6, 2017 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii Filipino Entrepreneur of the Year and the Filipino Young Entrepreneur of the Year and Scholarship Awards Gala. Dole Cannery Poomaikai Ballroom. 735 Iwilei Rd, Honolulu, HI. 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM; Contact Persons: Rocky Anguay 387-5821, Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090
THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 16-30, 2016 • PAGE 3
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 Liso Jeff Orig James Ramos COLUMNISTS Edna Alikpala Rhoda Yabez Alvarez, Esq. Jesse Bacon II Nancy Bernal Cesar Bonilla Alice Llanos Busmente Amelia Casamina Cabatu Anabel Gasmen Cabebe Dr. Rickie Camara Dr. Patricia Halagao Zeny Muyot 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 Michi Villaruz 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 Marivic Aldaya 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. Atty. Ernesto Urbano (Phils.)
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 FilAm Courier.
Telephone: 808.595.8787 Facsimile: 808.595.6883 E-Mail: courier@lava.net www.filamcourier.net M
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By RADIANT CORDERO
By the time you read this, we will be a week away from Thanksgiving. As I type this column, however, I am one day off of working for a few political campaigns, trying to relax my mind and body that was so used to rushing everywhere for months. As I attempt to decompress from the high stress of the political world (as much as my job will allow), I find it really hard to give myself “me” time. Granted, it has just been a day. I realized that it isn’t just this election season. I do this to myself after a busy streak in my life ends… I end up engrossing myself in a new project or pack on more to my schedule to fill the void that the busy-ness once filled. I know I am not the only one who does this. But, we have to give ourselves time to be ourselves. We are all already busy as it is. At work, we’re distracted by projects, our boss, and even our co-workers. We often build relationships with these people and they soon become part of our extracurricular lives. We eat lunch with them, do Starbucks runs to get a glimpse of sunshine, go to happy hour and continue conversations about work, and we let them into our lives. Then, we have our group of friends. Whether we have known them since elementary, some we’ve met from college. These are the ones that we eat ice cream or go to the movies with, and get dolled up to go to the bar or the club with. Most importantly, we also have our family, whom we love wholeheartedly, whether or not we get to spend time with them as often as we wish. When placed in such a hectic life, I get it, one would often get too caught up to have “me” time.
If you’re someone like me who hasn’t allowed themselves any “me” time in a while, I have three reasons why it is imperative to do so, stat! 1. GSD: Get Stuff Done! Okay, so it seems like GSD wouldn’t be something you would be doing if you were to get alone time to yourself, right? But, take some time to listen: Procrastination. It happens to the best of us! When we dedicate time for ourselves to be alone and GSD, we then allow ourselves more time to do other things we want to do. We will find ourselves not rushing, we can avoid having to worry, and overall, it just feels good to start checking things off and discover how your day can turn into a day filled with opportunities to take care of yourself and things you need to get done. 2. Learn About Yourself As I grow up and make new friends, I am often asked, “What do you like to do in your free time,” or “What are your interests?” The past few years, the only answers I had were, “work,” or “school,” but lately I have been making the effort to discover these answers. To have to stop, think, and come up blank to these questions is not only surprising, but, also quite sad. We can gain much from getting to know who we are. When we have “me” time and take that time to discover ourselves, we may surprise ourselves with a hidden talent or skill we never knew we had. Maybe there’s something we have always wanted to try… Like maybe learning to make a cocktail you tried at a new bar, or a new dessert you saw on The Food Channel. For me, I recently learned that I am pretty darn good at editing videos.
Sidenote: If you happen to be one of those people experimenting with food and drinks, I’d gladly be a tastetester. 3. Love Yourself As cliché as this sounds, it’s true! As you take the time to give yourself time to learn about yourself, you are also in the process of getting to love yourself. Born in the ‘90s, I grew up with the internet, cartoon characters of myself on Asian Avenue, expressing myself through music on my Myspace and writing cryptic notes to my crush or friends on Xanga or LiveJournal (Millennials, you know what’s up!). Now, we have Facebook, Instagram, Musical.ly, Snapchat, and more — a digital world where we can hide behind filters, emojis and phone screens. Our lives aren’t as people see it to be. People don’t see the hardships, job rejections, or struggles. What we often allow people to see are the good aspects of our lives, the successes -- heck, we even filter that so we don’t seem braggadocious! So as we “learn about ourselves,” we discover who
we truly want to be, without the “likes” and empty compliments on social media. Once you find and learn about yourself and then love yourself, you’ll be able to reevaluate who you spend time with, activities you partake in, and you’ll grow and evolve. Sure, it seems like you’ll be pickier, but you’ll be setting yourself up for success, and nothing less. ~~~~~~~~~~ In this issue of the Fil-Am Courier we honor and profile one of Hawaii’s Filipino community’s busiest bodies in town: Amelia CasaminaCabatu. You’ve seen her around town, hosting events, emceeing functions, and now, as the host of the Fil-Am Courier Community Hour in coordination with KNDI Radio… But, there is more to what makes my godmother, Aunty Ame, tick. So flip the page and read on to learn more about this wonder woman. And remember, take some time for yourself this Holiday season as a gift to yourself.
PAGE 4 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 16-30, 2016
By KATHLEEN LEE
ABOUT OUR COVER
The subject of our cover photo is a recognizable name in the Filipino community as she is one of the most popular emcees in the state. Amelia Casamina Cabatu is the host of the newly launched Fil-Am Courier Community Hour which expands the Courier base into new media. Photo credit by the talented Jade Moon Photography. Cover concept by Noah Felipe of Orig Media. Mahalo to Jeff Orig. Both Jeff and Noah may be reached at www.origmedia.com or by calling (808) 447-9559.
The host behind the Fil-Am Courier’s newly-launched talk radio program, the Fil-Am Courier Community Hour, is a seasoned media veteran. Amelia Casamina Cabatu brings to the talk radio landscape about 30 years of radio, television, and print experience. She aims to use, in her own words, “everything that God has given me,” to share her positive light to the community. Along with her arsenal of media expertise, Hawaii-born-and-raised Cabatu is a much-sought-after emcee for the Filipino-American community events all over the state and the country. And she should be – Cabatu has the ideal combination of confidence, grace, humility and the innate ability to make her audience tune in to her message. Cabatu can transform an hour-long interview about the radio station into a few hours’ conversation about life, faith in God, purpose, and quick lessons on Hawaii’s FilipinoAmerican history. The Fil-Am
Courier could not have picked a more vibrant individual to enhance and express its printed words through visual and verbal mediums. First things first – the Fil-Am Courier Community Hour program was launched at the Philippine Consulate & went on air for the first time on October 2, 2016. The segment will continue to be on the radio airwaves every first Sunday of the month, from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on 1270 KNDI AM on your radio dial. Cabatu described the Courier’s Community Hour radio program as something that had been in the works for over a year, but the timing became right just recently since its introduction paves the way for the Fil-Am Courier’s upcoming 30 th anniversary in 2017. The Community Hour format described by Cabatu as “TriMedia,” harnesses the collective power of the print and online versions of the newspaper, Facebook Live that was introduced
this year, and the newly-formed radio program. “With the arrival of the Facebook Live video feed, anyone, anywhere, anytime can listen, watch and read about what you’re going to say. This Tri-Media is an opportunity to showcase the uniqueness of the Filipino-American and Hawaii community, and to share with the world the vibrant Hawaiian/ Filipino hospitality that Hawaii is known for,” said Cabatu. The Fil-Am Courier has been serving the Filipino community since 1987 and is Hawaii’s longest running and most popular FilipinoAmerican publication. The newspaper is published in English with periodic Ilokano and Tagalog articles, and is printed twice a month. Its online presence is updated weekly, and has a local audience reach of over 200,000 Hawaii residents, a number that includes over 150,000 Filipinos living in the state. It has a global online reach of approximately five
THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 16-30, 2016 • PAGE 5
Emceed the Community dinner in honor of President Benigno Aquino III, November, 2011 Hilton Hawaiin Village Tapa Ballroom
Amelia (President of the Oahu Filipino Jayceettes) & Rowena Parado CID, Miss Sampaguita 1981.
million people, including about 3.7 million Filipinos. KNDI Radio 1270 AM, the station featuring the Fil-Am Courier Community Hour, is the only Filipino locally owned radio station that first hit the airwaves on July 11, 1960. Today it is known for representing “Voices Around the World,” with its multi-cultural format broadcasting in 14 different dialects throughout the State of Hawaii: Filipino (Ilokano and Tagalog), Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Okinawan, Vietnamese, Laotian, Hispanic, Samoan, Tongan, Marshallese, Chuukese, Pohnpeian and English. “You have to align yourself with profound, significant modes of media to get your message out,” Cabatu commented, regarding the impact of the Fil-Am Courier and KNDI’s collaboration. Cabatu, the Fil-Am Courier Community Hour’s host, is no stranger to pioneering “firsts” in the community. She was the first in the state to establish a licensed adult day care center in a residential home setting by the Hawaii State Department of Human Resource. She currently operates the Casamina Adult Day Care Home, a company that has been her passion for the last 24 years. “I love being able to use my God-given talent to help those who cannot help themselves,” Cabatu expressed, and emphasized her calling to be of service to the elderly & disabled population. In the early 1980s, she became the first president of the Oahu Filipino Jayceettes, a women’s leadership organization. In 1984, she partnered with Carmen Cantorna, president of the Hawaii Filipino Women’s Civic Club and brought forth innovative community
Amelia with Rick Manayan at 1540 Kiss AM Radio, Honolulu HI, Year 1984
programs. Their collaboration and tireless efforts resulted in the receipt of a Federal grant to produce a local Filipino-American television program called “Kayumanggi,” Cabatu’s first exposure to the media and communications field. Around that time, she worked with the Oahu Filipino Jaycees, a men’s leadership organization to produce the first Ms. Sampaguita Pageant in the State. That same year, she was invited to read the news on 1540 KISS AM Radio by Rick Manayan, who at that time ran the sole Filipino-owned radio station in Hawaii. Cabatu’s hard work resulted in her becoming thenews director of
the station from 1984-1999. “I was in the station by 4:30 a.m., preparing and recording the daily newsfor the “RICK MANAYAN MORNING SHOW” from 6:00-9:00 AM Monday through Friday.” On Saturday mornings, from 6:00-9:00 a.m., Amelia produced her own variety show offering the community a significant platform to reach and communicate with the listening audiences. Cabatu has held a Federal Communications Commission radio operator permit since 1987. All her past achievements reflect Cabatu’s strong work ethic and ability to convert her passion into action. As she herself reveals,
Emceeing the Philippine Nurses Association of America Convention in Washington, DC July 2016
she started working when she was 13 years old as a summer camp aide for the State’s Department of Education. That began her involvement with the community and it still holds true today. Amelia’s community affiliations are with the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii, former chair of the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii (the liaison arm to the Philippine Consulate General) and held board
positions with the Oahu Filipino Community Council, the Filipino Business Woman’s Association, the Filipino Woman’s Civic Club and was the public relations officer for the Filipino American Military Association. Her life changed dramatically when her parents got sick, starting with her father’s first heart attack. Cabatu’s dad worked as a stevedore – a machine operator and supervisor - with Castle & Cooke.
PAGE 6 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 16-30, 2016
Emceed the Filipino fiesta 2016 at Kapiolani park with Philippines heartthrob Sam Milby
Cabatu pointed out that her father, Alexander Casamina, was a sakada (Filipino contract laborer) and shared a quick history lesson. “Last year, Governor Ige signed into law a bill making every December 20 th in Hawaii, the official Sakada Day.
The Sakadas’ first arrival was on December 20, 1906 – men from Candon City, Ilocos Sur came to Hawaii as contract workers. “My father came on the last leg of the Sakada journey in 1946 & he always reminded me to never forget
Amelia visiting the Office of Congressman CEC HEFTEL with Ms, Donna Vescaino Miss Sampaguita Hawaii 1982, who competed and won the Binibining Pilipinas USA 1982 Title, along with the San Francisco Cherry Blossom Queen and Ms. Carmen Cantorna and Staff of Congressman Cec Heftel, Federal Building, Honolulu Hawaii
where you came from so you know where you are going” stated Cabatu. At the time when her father became ill, she was fully active in the community and held a job as a store planner. “I had to quit work and school – I still did radio, but had to find a reliable source of income that would allow me to stay home and take care of both my parents.” The situation inspired her to devise the program for the first adult day care centerin a residential home that she currently owns and operates. “It took me two yearsto get it fully licensed, but I persevered as it became my passion.” Her adult day care was acknowledged by the Hawaii State Legislature because of her exemplary role model for health care providers and as an Outstanding Advocate for Humanity. While appreciative of the recognition, Cabatu emphasizes a higher reason for what she does. “Accolades are great but not as important as the purpose that gives
you the pride to do it. Many have followed my footsteps, but with the constant changing of Medicare and Medicaid rules, it’s not as easy to get licensed and to be operational as in the past.” Today, running her day care center includes caring for her 96year-old mother who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. It’s a 24/ 7 job and is the reason why she can only devote a few hours a month to the radio program. Amelia also credits her family in caring for her active mom. She has a very firm outlook on how to serve her clients. “I believe in continuity of care. My relationships with my clients are as important as my relationship with their families, because we all have to cohesively work together to make sure that our loved ones’ care is optimal.” Cabatu states her priorities as the threeFs: Faith, Family and Friends. When you have Faith, the Holy Spirit guides you in the right direction which gives you strength.
When you have Family, the blood lines makes you feel secure and loved and when you have true friends, they will always be there to support you. She is acutely aware of the resources that are available to her, and is very careful about taking anything for granted. “I’ve been given a special gift and it is my responsibility to share it. For the community, it’s the radio program – to speak positively. Life is about choices. My choice is to be grateful and make the most of what God has given meand be a blessing to him and to others and in turn they can be a blessing to others as well, it’s a domino effect.” Cabatu believes that Success or Happiness is all individually driven. “Your definition and my definition may be different. For me, it is not based on power, prestige, or possession but based on the relationships you develop with people you love, respect and admire. That’s how I live my life,simply, happily and productively. Cabatu comes from a very large closely knit family, and she speaks highly of her grandnieces and nephews. It’s heart warming to know that what I do has been a blessing to them, and in turn, what they do can be a blessing to someone else.” Now the community can be part of her tribe too as they tune in to the Fil-Am Courier Community Hour. And as she shares her God-given gift of gab with the listeners, one can expect Amelia Casamina Cabatuto continue to heed her calling of giving Service through the spoken word. A positive light continues to shine. The newly-launched Fil-Am Courier Community Hour on KNDI Radio 1270 AM airs every First Sunday from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The next show will be on December 4, 2016.
Kathleen Lee was born in the Philippines and spent a portion of her early childhood in Baguio and Manila. She was raised in San Jose, California, and currently lives and thrives in Honolulu. She works as a senior policy advisor for a Hawaii-based consulting firm.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 16-30, 2016 • PAGE 7
Thank you...
GATHERING PLACE by ANGIE DYTIOCO SANTIAGO
CONSUL GENERAL GINA JAMORALIN, AMELIA, BENNETTE, ROLAND, LARRY
Thank you to all who came to our successful launching of the Fil-Am Courier Community Hour last Sunday October 2nd at the Philippine Consulate Lanai. To our generous Sponsors, I am forever grateful. To Mayor Kirk Caldwell and all the elected government officials & community leaders that stopped by, thank you! To our listening and viewing audiences, maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat. A special mahalo to the following for your continued support: Gerry & Nellie Malabed, KNDI Radio & Staff Philippine Consul General Gina Jamoralin and the Philippine Consulate General Staff Larry Ordonez, Roland Casamina, David Florendo, Conrad Valdriz Jeannette Trevias, Kristian Lei, Jonathan Kaina, Ben Vegas, Joel Tolentino, Adela Salacup & Carol Cardenas, Ashley Chair Covers Manuel & Elsa Badua, Jessie’s Bakery & Restaurant, Val & Edith Doctolero of Sunrise Leis & Flowers, Charmaine Padilla, Patrick Torres, Bobby Supnet, Eva Casamina, Tessie & Cris Pascua, Mark, Elsie & Chloe Fernandez, Radiant Cordero, Angie Santiago, JJ Padilla & Johniah Ornellas, And most importantly, Our Heavenly Father, Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
SITTING: DAVID FLORIENDO, CONRAD VALDRIZ, LARRY ORDONEZ. TOP ROW: AMELIA, MAY THOMPSON OF PHILIPPINE AIRLINES (SPONSOR), KRISTIAN LEI, JENIFFER ORDONEZ, MARY
KNDI OWNER GERRY MALABED, MARY FILAM COURIER OWNER MARY CORDERO, HOST AMELIA CASAMINA CABATU
MAGGIE DOMINGO,US REPRESENTATIVE ELECT COLLEEN HANABUSA, MARY CORDERO, MICHI VILLALUZ
BOTTOM ROW: SPONSORS MARIA ETRATA, EVELYN CASAMINA, ELSA TALAVERA, DR. JANEL ANCHETA-CARROLL, NANCY WALCH, MARY, AMELIA & BENNETTE. TOP ROW: COUNCILMAN JOEY MANAHAN, REPRESENTATIVE ROMY CACHOLA, GERRY MALABED, ROLAND CASAMINA, LARRY ORDONEZ
AMELIA, GERRY, MARY, REVEREND ALEX VERGARA, ROLAND CASAMINA, LARRY ORDONEZ NOLI and AMELIA CABATU
ENTERTAINERS: BEN VEGAS, JEANNETTE TREVIAS, JONATHAN KAINA
SITTING: SENATOR DONNA MERCADO KIM, MARIA ETRATA, ROLAND CASAMINA, LARRY ORDONEZ. TOP ROW: ROSEMARIE MENDOZA, AMELIA, JOEL TOLENTINO, TESSIE AGANON, JOSEFINA DEGAMO TAKAMOTO
VENUE: PHILIPPINE CONSULATE LANAI
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.
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FILIPINO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF HAWAII CALENDAR OF EVENTS – Dec. 16, 2016- July 08, 2017 Dec. 16, 2016 Jan. 07, 2017 Jan. 11, 2017
Jan. 14, 2017 Feb. 08, 2017
Feb 17-28, 2017
March 8, 2017
March 24, 2017
April 12, 2017
May 06, 2017
May 09, 2017
` June 11-16, 2017 June 14, 2017
July 08, 2017
Christmas Party – Pagoda Hotel – 6:00 – 11:00 pm Legislative Breakfast – Ala Wai Golf Club 8:30 - 11:30 am Board Meeting – Dave & Busters – 5:30 -7:00 pm Membership Meeting – Dave & Busters - 7:00 - 9:00 pm Taste of Kalihi - 10:00 am – 8:00 pm –Kalihi District Board Meeting – Dave & Busters – 5:30 – 7:00 pm Membership Meeting – Dave & Busters – 7:00 – 9:00 pm Trade Mission to the Philippines – Manila-Davao-Laoag-Vigan -Candon-Baguio Board Meeting – Dave & Busters – 5:30 – 7:00 pm Membership Meeting – Dave & Busters – 7:00 – 9:00 pm Golf Tournament – Ewa Beach Golf Course – 9:00 am–9:00 pm Board Meeting – Dave & Busters – 5:30 – 7:00 pm Membership Meeting – Dave & Busters – 7:00 – 9:00 pm Filipino Entrepreneur of the Year & Scholarship Awards Dole Cannery– 6:00–11:00 pm Board Meeting – Dave & Busters – 5:30 – 7:00 pm Membership Meeting – Dave & Busters – 7:00 – 9:00 pm Election of Officers and Board & Annual Meeting Restaurant Week (Partnered with Philippine Consulate) Board Meeting – Dave & Busters – 5:30 – 7:00 pm Membership Meeting – Dave & Busters – 7:00 - 9:00 pm Installation of Officers/Board – Hilton Hawn Village, Tapa
FOR INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Bernadette Dario Fajardo FCCH President - Tel# 808-342-8090 Brandon dela Cruz FCCH President-Elect – Tel# 808-389-0517
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Roland’s work ethic is said to be truly outstanding. Oftentimes, he is the first person to show up to resolve issues conveying a courteous and positive attitude throughout. His caring nature allows him to treat everyone’s problem as if it were his own. Roalnd views the Judiciary as his “home away from home.” Without question, Roland’s personal touch and dedication demonstrate his exemplary commitment to the Judiciary. With his smile and generous heart, Roland brightens the day for many at the Honolulu District Court. More importantly, he is and continues to be a great asset to the Judiciary.
by RANDY CORTEZ
Randy Cortez obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy along with a Bachelors in Filipino and Philippine Literature at the University of Hawaii-Manoa. Currently, he is a third year law student at the UHM William S. Richardson School of Law. Previously, Randy served as President of the JCI-Filipino Junior Chamber (a.k.a Filipino Jaycees), and continues to devote his time to the Knights
Source: http://www.courts.state.hi.us/ news_and_reports/featured_news/ 2016/10/2016-jurist-of-the-year-andjudiciary-employees-honored
On October 7, 2016, the Hawaii State Judiciary held their 2016 Statewide Incentive Awards and Years of Service Awards for Courts of Appeal and Administration at the Supreme Court Courtroom in Ali’iolani Hale. A highlight of the annual Awards Ceremony is the honoring of the Jurist of the Year. This year, the Hawaii State Judiciary recognized Chief Judge Derrick H.M. Chan of the Circuit Court in the First Circuit as Jurist of the Year. Additionally, the Hawaii State Judiciary recognized and awarded numerous individual employees
and groups “who have distinguished themselves through exceptional service and accomplishments.” The Hawaii State Judiciary recognized Roland Advincula, a well-known member of the Filipino community. Roland works as a Facility Management Working Supervisor of the District Court of the First Circuit, in Honolulu. Deputy Judge Barbara Richardson, on behalf of the Hawaii State Judiciary, recognized Roland for consistently exemplifying a helpful and courteous attitude in the execution
of service to the public and to the Judiciary. For his service, the Hawaii State Judiciary conferred upon Roland the coveted Spirit of the Judiciary Award. For decades Roland has been a valuable employee of the Judiciary. Dedicated and hardworking, Roland always goes above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that the Honolulu District Court is properly maintained and safe for everyone. Highly respected as a working supervisor in facilities management, Roland often jumps in to ensure court facilities are maintained to his high standards.
of Rizal - Hawaii.
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By DR. CHRISTOPHER TORTORA, M.D. Medical Director of Hawaiian Eye Center
Nearly 600,000 people in Hawaii suffer from prediabetes or diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. Diabetes can lead to diabetic eye diseases, including cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy—the leading cause of new cases of blindness in U.S. adults. November is designated Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month by the American Academy of Ophthalmology to help raise awareness and “encourage those with diabetes to take proactive steps to protect their vision.” Diabetes, both type 1 and 2, can cause major problems for your vision by increasing the risk and severity of eye diseases. Most people are famil-
iar with cataract and glaucoma, but diabetic retinopathy is less known despite how common and dangerous it can be. It’s estimated that between 40 to 45 percent of those diagnosed with diabetes have diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy damages the retina’s blood vessels located at the back of the eye. It can cause blood vessels in the eye to swell and leak fluid or cause abnormal growth of blood
vessels on the surface of the retina. Leaking fluid can lead to macular edema—swelling of the retina’s macular area that’s responsible for sharp, central vision. If you suffer from diabetes, it’s important to manage your condition and get regular checkups to prevent health complications that can adversely affect your eyes. Get a comprehensive dilated eye exam from your eyecare professional at least once a year be-
cause diabetic eye diseases often go unnoticed until serious damage has already occurred. If you’ve been diagnosed with a diabetic eye disease, you may need more frequent eye exams. Cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy can be treated with a variety of methods and surgical procedures, but early detection is key to protecting your vision. Proper treatment can be administered by an eyecare professional to help control the effects of diabetic eye diseases and prevent blindness.
If you have diabetes, protect your eyes by: • Monitoring your blood sugar levels • Keeping your blood pressure and cholesterol in check • Taking insulin and other medications prescribed by your doctor • Maintaining a healthy diet • Exercising regularly • Getting regular eye exams at least once a year Mana Means Communications 1088 Bishop St. Ste. 1209 Honolulu, Hawaii 96813. Ph 808.521.1160 Fax 808.521.1104 www.ManaMeans.com
Dr. Christopher Tortora, a board certified ophthalmologist, is host of “The Hawaiian Eye Show,” a weekly informational radio program about healthy vision broadcast live every Saturday at 8 a.m. on KHVH 830 AM/rebroadcast at 9 p.m. on KHBZ 990 AM. He and his colleagues at the Hawaiian Eye Center are committed to educating the public about the importance of preventative eye care. To learn more about a variety of eye health issues, please call the Hawaiian Eye Center at 621-8448 or visit www.HawaiianEye.com and www.Facebook.com/ HawaiianEyeCenter, where “life has never looked better.”
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by JORDAN SEGUNDO
REDUCE HOLIDAY STRESS Now that the 2016 elections are finally over, we can all go back to worrying about other issues, or so we thought. The holiday season will soon be upon us and for many people that means more stress added to the mix. As we prepare for Thanksgiving and Christmas, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with what the season brings: lots of cooking, family gatherings, holiday shopping and so much more. Before any stress builds up, here are a few ways to beat the holiday blues and minimize the holiday stress and pressure. • Stay healthy and exercise - Maintain your fitness and healthy eating habits throughout the holiday season to avoid the added stress of extra pounds. Exercise also stimulates endorphins, the body's natural mood elevators. • Sleep - Don't forget to sleep! This is when your body recharges and refreshes itself. Without adequate sleep, your body will not be able to recover from stress. Lack of sleep can also lead to sugar cravings and weight gain. • Just Say No! - You do not need to say yes to every single thing that comes up at the holidays. You can say no. Don't feel bad. Don't feel selfish. Saying no to things you really don't want to do is one of the most freeing changes you can make. • Embrace the holiday spirit - The spirit of the season is about giving, being thankful and reflecting on a year well-lived. Find little moments that bring you happiness and share that joy with others.
SOUTH SHORE MARKET There is now a new place to shop in Honolulu. The South Shore Market opened its doors on November 11 and offers a truly unique retail and dining experience that highlights local merchants. The 25,125 square-foot space is inspired by retail spaces like New York’s Chelsea Market and California’s Anaheim Packing District. Composed of 18 merchants, South Shore Market is located at Ward Village below TJ MAXX on the corner of Auahi Street and Queen Lane, and includes local merchants like MORI by Art + Flea, Salvage Public, Cameron Hawaii, Manaola Hawaii, and Kealopiko. South Shore Market embodies Honolulu's creative scene, all the while providing local merchants, entrepreneurs, creatives, and shoppers alike a gathering place that's reflective of their passions and taste.
PUMPKIN CRUNCH I always aspire to be a better cook, because great food is an important element in all happy celebrations. Every holiday season my friends and family always request my Pumpkin Crunch dessert. It is a sweet and satisfying dish that is sure to become one of your favorites. I’d like to share this easy recipe in hopes of bringing a bit of extra joy to your holiday gatherings. Enjoy! One 13 oz. can pumpkin puree (not pie mix) One 12 oz. can evaporated milk 1 cup sugar 3 eggs 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 1 box yellow cake mix 2 cups walnuts, chopped 1 1/2 cups melted butter
Mix first six ingredients and pour into greased, parchment lined cake pan 9x13 or 8x8. Evenly spread half of cake mix (dry) over batter. Next, sprinkle with nuts and then remaining cake mix. Pour melted butter over top. Bake in 350 degree oven for 50 mins. When cool, loosen pumpkin crunch from side of pan with a knife. Invert pan onto platter (the top becomes the crust). Top with sweetened cream cheese or whipped cream.
Jordan Segundo is most noted as the first contestant from Hawaii and the first Filipino-American selected as a Top 32 finalist on season two of American Idol. Since then, he has made a name for himself as one of Hawaii’s top entertainers. In addition to singing, he has branched out into acting and television hosting. He is currently the weekend weather anchor and a reporter for KITV4 Island News. Aside from performing, Segundo is also very active in the community. He generously volunteers his time and talents to worthy causes and non-profit organizations, such as the Ronald McDonald House Charities, the D.A.R.E. Program and the Oahu SCPA. When not performing, Jordan enjoys working out, cooking and hiking. To contact Jordan Segundo, visit his website at www.jsegundo.com
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Part 2
By Dr. ALFRED SISON
If you can recall from my last submission, the column reviewed general information on headaches from types and causes to how mood, personality, and stress affects and triggers headaches. In this column is a brief summary and review of some treatments such as relaxation, biofeedback, massage, acupuncture, food, and others. This column is intended to provide a brief introduction to ways all of us can manage headaches. Treatment Overview James Lance, former president of the International Headache Society, 15 has a useful flow-chart where he suggests that for many who only suffer headaches monthly or less frequently, it may be enough firstly to detect and where appropriate avoid personal trigger factors (possibilities include excessive light/noise/smells, smoking, stress/ relaxation post stress, certain foods or lack of food, alcohol) and secondly to use relief medication or other “first aid” methods. For those who suffer from frequent headaches, it is more obviously relevant to consider counselling, relaxation methods, physical exercise and regular prophylactic medication. It may be
TREATMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF HEADACHES sensible to check for depression, high blood pressure and excessive use of medication especially if the headaches are increasing in frequency. Relaxation, biofeedback and stress management Relaxation orientated therapies produce 45 to 65% improvement in 17 migraine - similar to the benefits achieved by medication. Tension-type headaches are likely to respond even better than migraine to such relaxation 18 based techniques . For tension-type headaches, relaxation therapies may 19 well be more effective than pills . This greater effectiveness of stress management over pills is probably also 20 true for migraine in adolescents . Improvements are well maintained or 21 even increased at follow up several years later. Although relaxation skills are in general as helpful as 21 biofeedback , in selected cases it may be worth adding this more complex 18 technique . Similarly, adding further
stress management skills such as problem solving, assertiveness training and cognitive restructuring may well 22 further increase the benefits achieved. At times it may be important to look for and treat associated depression, grief and abuse. The ways forward in this area include working to reduce the demands on face-to-face therapist 20 time by making treatments more home-based, adding further skills to a base of well taught relaxation when appropriate, and clarifying when and what other therapies can be used alongside stress management for more difficult cases. Acupuncture, massage and trigger points: Acupuncture can produce impressive results in the treatment of headache. Treating migraine in a well 23 performed, placebo controlled trial , Vincent achieved a 44% reduction in overall pain and a 33% reduction in medication at 6 week follow-up after half a dozen weekly acupuncture sessions.
Despite no further treatment, this improvement continued to increase, so that at one year follow-up there was a 69% reduction in pain and a 63% reduction in medication. The placebo acupuncture group only achieved minimal improvement even thought they rated their treatment as equally credible. It seems likely that more traditional 24 acupuncture approaches - with less focus on tender points and more minimal stimulation - are likely to be less effective. In general, tension-type headache probably respond even 25 better than migraine . Massage, both generally and working on specific areas 26 of tenderness, may also be helpful . 27 Testing trigger areas for tenderness can even act as an early warning system for those who suffer from headaches. Food and environment: Food allergy, chemical triggers, hypoglycaemia and environmental factors may all be relevant for headache sufferers. Claimed success rates vary
widely. There is no doubt that very good results can be achieved in certain groups of patients - for example 70%28 to 90%29 response rates in some severe sufferers, particularly children. An elimination diet followed by the reintroduction of suspected foods is still the gold standard4 for diagnosis. Other techniques of diagnosis should be approached rather more tentatively and some are probably worse than useless. It seems quite likely that with migraines at least 50% of sufferers will improve on an elimination diet4 so if the headaches are troublesome enough this approach30 is well worth trying. Sometimes the problem is due to a true allergy; however probably more commonly chemical components31 of food and other substances may be the real cause of the headaches. Partial enzyme deficiencies and psychological reactions may also complicate the picture. Hypoglycaemia may trigger migraines32. Avoiding too much sugar and refined carbohydrates, eating three well-balanced meals daily and possibly also snacking a little non-sugary, protein containing food at least once between each main meal may help considerably. Finally other environmental factors such as smoke, fumes29 and even buildings7 can cause problems. Other treatments: There is also some evidence33 that suggests homoeopathy may be worth trying. It is clear too that problems in the neck may cause headache34 so manipulation and other cervical treatment is worth considering in some cases. Clearly almost any intervention will have its proportion of placebo successes, so a critical approach to therapists' claims makes good sense. Even so, any general approach such as physical exercise35 or other efforts to promote general "wellness"36 are likely to boost the response to more specific treatments and increase overall well-being. References (the numbered superscripts after some of the words) can be provided upon request from my website www.alspsy.com Alfred A. Sison, MA, LMFT, PsyD; "Dr. Al" is a licensed clinical psychologist with a subspeciality license in marriage and family therapy. He services individuals, couples, and familes through the therapeutic process, and maintains a private practice in Honolulu, HI. He holds a Doctorate of Psychology (PsyD), Clinical Psychology degree from Argosy University, Hawaii Campus and a Master of Arts (MA), Professional Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy Specialty from the American School of Professional Psychology, Hawaii Campus. He completed his undergraduate studies with a degree in Bachelor of Arts (BA), Psychology from the University of California, Berkeley.
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Councilmember Elefante and the Honolulu City Council honored Stan Mesina of August Ahrens Elementary School in Waipahu at the October 5th Full Council Meeting. The Council acknowledged him for receiving the 2016 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. By BRANDON ELEFANTE Council Member City and County of Honolulu
Councilmember Elefante attended the Friends of the Pearl City Library Book Sale in October. Pictured from left to right: Secretary Guy Inouye, Pearl City Neighborhood Board member Myrtle Nyuha, President Kelsey Poaha, Treasurer Andrew Itsuno, and Pearl City Highlands Elementary Principal Mike Nakasato.
Searching for the Mayor's Production Grants
Councilmember Elefante met with several Waipahu residents, Se’e, Francine, and Didi, about their term papers for social work at Leeward Community College. Their passion for the field of social work is awe-inspiring.
Councilmember Elefante participated in the Waipahu High School C-TAP (Community Traffic Awareness Program) along with Representative Aquino, students, and the Honolulu Police Department. The Peer Education class helped to organize this event to improve traffic safety. The class focused on reducing jaywalking and texting while walking.
As we near the end of the calendar year, the City begins its search for grant proposals for the next fiscal year. I’d like to tell you about a grant that you may be interested in pursuing. The Mayor’s Office of Culture and the Arts (MOCA) is requesting proposals for three different Mayor’s Production Grants: Level I, Level II, and Operating Grant. The Level I Grant will assist organizations seeking support for the creation of newly developed artistic works or the preservation of cultural heritage through new artistic works. The Level II Grant provides continued support for ongoing works which had previously received MOCA grant awards between Fiscal Years 2010 and 2016. Both the Mayor’s Level I and Level II Grants award up to $10,000. Organizations seeking operating support must demonstrate the need for such operating support. The Operating Grant was created in response to the needs of the cultural and performing arts
applicants must be tax-exempt, publicly supported and charitable organizations, as determined by the Internal Revenue Service. The deadline for submitting proposals is Friday, December 2, 2016 at 4 p.m. Proposals may be submitted to the Division of Purchasing at 530 South King Street, Room 115.
community seeking operating support in creating or maintaining works and projects. The Mayor’s Operating Grant awards up to $5,000. All grants will be awarded to organizations located within the City and County of Honolulu for projects benefiting O‘ahu residents. To be eligible for grants,
The links for Request for Proposal (RFP) documents are available at the MOCA website www.honolulu.gov/moca/. For additional information, call (808) 768-6622.
I am proud to share some photos of outstanding citizens from our community as well as from some recent community events. Enjoy!
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.
by DANIEL B. EISEN, PhD Pacific University
Although racism does not look the same as it has historically, it continues to be embedded in our communities. Social scientists have clearly documented racism’s transformation. Overt discrimination has become hidden in structural policies and procedures, racial epithets have morphed into “dog whistle” phrases, and overtly racist interpersonal interactions have developed into seemly friendly interactions that are littered with microaggressions. The transition from overt to covert racism has led many to believe that racism is relic of the past— a belief that further silences the voices of those who are the victims of racism. Discussions about race, diversity, and justice are often met with resistance. Individuals from the dominant group often interpret these discussions as personal attacks, rather than critiques of larger structural modes of oppression. When this occurs, individuals from the dominant group often rely on defensiveness to shift the focus of the conversation or to end the discussion. One manifestation of defensiveness is recalling past actions. When this tactic is employed an individual showcases the positive actions or successes to combat racism that they have taken in the past. For example, one may argue that they are not part of the problem because they fought for desegregation, attended a demonstration to oppose police brutality, or signed a petition to oppose stop and frisk policies. Although these actions are commendable, it is important to note that previous actions do not make one immune to currently engaging in racist actions or supporting systems that maintain the marginalization of others. This focus on what one has done in the past derails the original conversation about marginalization and oppression and refocuses the conversation on a single person’s identity. This effectively ends a conversation about race and begins a conversation focused on reaffirming an individual's identity as a “good person.” This shift occurs because the grasp for identity affirmation forces the others in the conversation to commend the individual’s previous efforts and reassure them that they are not a “bad person.” Ultimately, this tactic postpones the difficult conversations about racism to make one
Are We Still Talking About Race? individual feel better about his or herself, which silences the experiences of the marginalized, as they fade into the background wondering if they will ever be heard. I do not intend to contradict the message of my June 1st column, in which I argued that “what you do matters.” Previous actions and successes matter and operate as one of many actions that need to be taken to combat racism. However, what one does in the present and in conversations about race also matters. After all one’s work
to vehemently oppose the historical characterization of Filipinos as stoop workers does not make one immune to engaging in actions that characterize Filipinos in Hawai‘i as uneducated, low-income, service workers—a characterization that continues to profoundly harm Filipino youth. It must be acknowledged that these conversation about marginalization and oppression will be uncomfortable and that mistakes will inevitably be made. Letting go of perfectionism, which I discussed in April 2015’s column,
allows one to engage in the hard conversations without seeking affirmation of our identity, a shift that allows one to truly see the current state of racism in our communities. Ultimately, we need to move away from being focused on our previous actions, be present in conversations about race, and work to hold each other accountable for the actions that they are currently engaging in to combat or promote racism and inequality. When we can be present in this way the stories that have been waiting in the background will finally be heard
and we can work together to combat racism in our communities. Dr. 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.
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Two new books tell rare accounts of the Pacific War in the Philippines after Pearl Harbor Book Launch to be held at Philippine Consulate Tuesday, November 29, 5:30 p.m. Honolulu — A few hours after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Japanese war planes decimated Clark Air Field north of Manila. It was the first salvo against America’s Pacific colony that escalated into the Battle of Bataan, the largest defeat in U.S. military history, and the Death March that killed about 25,000 American and Filipino soldiers. Because America prioritized the European arena before focusing on the Pacific, the Philippines came under Japanese rule for four years until General Douglas MacArthur could fulfill his promise to return and liberate the country. Now, two books by authors with Hawaii ties are contributing new information to the story of the Pacific War. Cadet, Soldier, Guerrilla Fighter: Remembering Bataan and Corregidor and The Battle of Ising: the Untold Story of the 130th Infantry Regiment in the Liberation of Mindanao in the
Philippines will be launched at the Philippine Consulate on Tuesday, November 29 at 6 p.m. in time to commemorate the December 7 attacks that pushed America into World War II. “These two books are a muchneeded addition to a literature on Filipinos who fought in World War II,” says Dr. Patricio Abinales, head of Center of Philippine Studies at University of Hawaii at Manoa. “Here are stories of young men who were forced by the circumstances to become ready to die in defense of the homeland. They faced the enemy with very little resources, but the Filipinos and Americans who made their last stand in Bataan and Corridor held back the well-armed and well-trained Japanese imperial army while in the rest of the colonial governments in Southeast Asia collapsed like a house of cards in a week or two.”
Marie Silva Vallejo
Honolulu writer and public relations veteran Pepi Nieva has edited the war stories of her late father, Antonio A. Nieva, a Bataan Death March survivor who joined a storied guerrilla group made up of college boys, the Hunters-ROTC, upon his release from prison camp. Cadet, Soldier, Guerrilla Fighter blends historical facts with personal vignettes, giving intimate, moving, and sometimes humorous accounts of how the war affected soldiers and townfolk, housewives and society matrons, hustlers and gamblers, and the young, idealistic 20-year-olds who fought a guerrilla war in the Philippine barrios and forests. The book, available on Amazon.com, is illustrated by the elder Nieva’s original drawings and is a rare,
first-hand account told from the Philippine perspective. Marie Silva Vallejo, who lived in Honolulu after working for Intel in California and before moving to Manila, discovered her father’s exploits as the commander of 1,500 guerrillas in Davao province in the southern island of Mindanao. She interviewed 22 veterans to complete the story of The Battle of Ising and Major Saturnino Silva. While conducting research, Vallejo found World War II records, crumbling from age and exposure to Philippine jungles, in the U.S. National Archives in Washington, DC. She worked with the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office and the Filipino Veterans Foundation to digitize 270 boxes of Guerrilla Recognition files, which can be used to substantiate compensation claims by Filipino World War II veterans. Vallejo will also do a presentation on how to use these digital records at a presentation on November 29, 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Moot Courtroom at the Richardson Law School. Both Antonio Nieva and Saturnino Silva were awarded Bronze Stars for their service on behalf of the United States Armed Forces. Silva also was awarded the Purple Heart. The book launch and the guerilla records presentation are free and open to the public. The events are sponsored by the Philippine Consulate, the UH Center for Philippine Studies, the Filipino Association of University Women, and the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee. For more information, contact Pepi Nieva 808-225-1219, pepinieva@hotmail.com. •••• Editor’s note: Please contact Pepi Nieva for interview arrangements. Mahalo!
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