P. Emraida Kiram's column
Wisconsin echoes
Wisconsin echoes
By P. Emraida Kiram
This column will, in general, deal with Wisconsin community events, organizations, important dates,
exciting persons and exotic personalities but will not be limited to the above. It will explore and illuminate, but
more than ever, it will acknowledge and honor those who otherwise remain unknown and unnoticed. It will
also endeavor to provide coverage of happenings and people from other states with Wisconsin or Midwest
roots.
STUDENT INTERNS AT THE KALAHARI
Who has not heard of the “Kalahari”? In early October, I was alerted by Lorna Dietz (NaFFAA Media
Coordinator and resident of Mt. Prospect, Ill.) that Lakhi Siap, a young professional from Niles, Ill. was trying to
reach me because there were issues involving Filipinos in the hotel and restaurant industry in Wisconsin. For
years, I served as chair of the Wisconsin Commission on Civil Rights, and this type of call was nothing
unusual. After reaching Lakhi, and armed with a name and a phone number, I called Marc Anthony Pangan, one
of seven student interns at the Kalahari Resort and Hotel, a popular tourist destination and water park in
Wisconsin Dells (also known simply as the “Dells”), located north — north of Milwaukee and about an hour from
Madison. This is a story of unfortunate circumstances, and is told not to lay blame, but as a learning opportunity.
It is also a story of how Filipinos will reach out to help other Filipinos, even complete strangers.
This column will, in general, deal with Wisconsin community events, organizations, important dates,
exciting persons and exotic personalities but will not be limited to the above. It will explore and illuminate, but
more than ever, it will acknowledge and honor those who otherwise remain unknown and unnoticed. It will
also endeavor to provide coverage of happenings and people from other states with Wisconsin or Midwest
roots.
STUDENT INTERNS AT THE KALAHARI
Who has not heard of the “Kalahari”? In early October, I was alerted by Lorna Dietz (NaFFAA Media
Coordinator and resident of Mt. Prospect, Ill.) that Lakhi Siap, a young professional from Niles, Ill. was trying to
reach me because there were issues involving Filipinos in the hotel and restaurant industry in Wisconsin. For
years, I served as chair of the Wisconsin Commission on Civil Rights, and this type of call was nothing
unusual. After reaching Lakhi, and armed with a name and a phone number, I called Marc Anthony Pangan, one
of seven student interns at the Kalahari Resort and Hotel, a popular tourist destination and water park in
Wisconsin Dells (also known simply as the “Dells”), located north — north of Milwaukee and about an hour from
Madison. This is a story of unfortunate circumstances, and is told not to lay blame, but as a learning opportunity.
It is also a story of how Filipinos will reach out to help other Filipinos, even complete strangers.
| P. Emraida Kiram |
California called ASSE/EDI. The acronyms have never been explained to Marc and he had no idea what they stood for. Marc found out days
later that the reason he could not reach the person at the end of that phone number, was because his arrival fell on a Sunday and there was
no one in the office at the Kalahari. Great planning by the sponsor.
The six other interns — all female and coming from various universities under the same program but with a different sponsor — arrived in
June in two batches. Marc had by this time befriended some locals, who helped pick up the arriving interns, even if he never met them
before. By the time I had spoken to Marc in October, he had been at the Kalahari for five months and was terribly distressed by the lack of
response from the Kalahari’s office of Human Resources, the disrespect by staff, lack of orientation, unkept promised employment hours and
overall discrimination. When he would go seeking answers from HR, they pointed him to ASSE/EDI, and when he called ASSE/EDI, they
referred him back to the Kalahari. At this juncture, the seven interns were staying in a two-bedroom apartment in Baraboo (a neighboring
town), and they were paying $1500 a month; their uniforms were not embroidered with the words “intern” and naturally they were treated like
the “help” in housekeeping. When they asked to be moved to another assignment, they were denied. At the time of my call, Marc was working
five hours a week at $7.75 an hour. No wonder he was distressed.
I emailed friends, and in two days, a member of FANHS (Filipino American National Historical Society) from Fond du Lac, drove to the Dells
with food, clothing and funds. In four days, the Filipino community in Madison had responded, and invited the interns to a get-together in
Madison and had organized a collection. I’d like to make special acknowledgment and thanks to Eloisa Callender, who advocated tenaciously
for the interns, keeping on the phone and calling both the Kalahari and ASSE/ EDI. We thought at the time that it was best to try to keep this
intimate and quiet. But the Kalahari began showing off muscle. The president of ASSE/EDI, Dan Augustine, promised to fly to the Dells and stay
“until this issue is resolved.” He came, talked to Kalahari representatives, talked to the interns and Eloisa, promised possible relocation and
returned to California without any resolution, no further follow up, no news and pregnant silence. By the end of that same week, the landlord
had served notice that the interns needed to vacate. Eloisa helped to negotiate an extended deadline. At the time of this writing, Marc has
given up and will return to the Philippines by early December. Eloisa, bless her heart, has campaigned for funds to help Marc on his return
trip, and as of today, the donations in cash is a little less than $400. If there is any desire to contribute, send your check to Eloisa Callender, 21
Maple View Court, Madison, WI 53719. The six females seem to receive better treatment and have decided to stay until the end of their
internship in May 2010. I did not include their names because they hesitated to get involved. The Kalahari is expecting another set of
Philippine interns soon, and the cycle begins again.
Many friends gave time, support and help in cash and in kind. I’d like to thank them through this column: Susan Ledesma, Edgar and
Rehmie Azcueta, Agnes G. Cammer, Alan and Martha Rosanes, Noli and Jenny Ybanez, Al Gutierrez, June Gonzales, Jr., Magdalena
Mejillano, Ed and Nieva Escall, Eloisa and Jean-Paul Chavas, Leo and Mina Vitangcol, Nancy Uy, Amy Barry, Agnes and Jerry Salvo, Merlo
and Joanne Adalin, Eloisa Callender and Carmel Capati (Marc’s lawyer who has offered her services pro bono). I will leave the lessons to be
learned to each of my readers.
IT IS OFFICIAL: October is Filipino American History Month
On October 1, 2009, the U.S. Senate passed S. Resolution 298, and the U.S. House of Representatives passed H. Resolution 780 on
November 2, 2009, recognizing October as Filipino American History Month. It passed both houses unanimously. In Rodel E. Rodis’ article
“Telltale Signs” dated November 4, 2009, he gives a background on how this initiative came about. “For years since its founding in Seattle,
Washington in l982, it was always the goal of the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS) for Filipino Americans to be given our
very own month to celebrate our history and culture in the United States. At its biennial conference in l988, FANHS members unanimously
passed a resolution to ‘establish Filipino American History Month to be observed annually and nationally throughout the United States and its
Territories during the month of October commencing in the year l992, to mark the 405th Anniversary of the presence of Filipinos in the
continental United States.’” Rodis continues to explain, “After the FANHS resolution was publicized, Filipino Americans began celebrating
October as Filipino American History Month with celebrations and festivities throughout the U.S. Various states, aside from California and
Hawaii, would routinely pass resolutions as they have done in Michigan, but the celebration in various states somehow just wasn’t enough.”
To .many Filipino Americans who have helped to make this possible, please accept our eternal thanks and gratitude. To Sen. Leland Yee, who
introduced legislation in California and had it also passed, our sincere thanks.
FANHS-Wisconsin was chartered in June 12, 2001 and joined 27 other chapters in the United States. Angelica Varona-Camara is the
current FANHS WI President and Ernesto “Ernie” Lizarondo is Vice President.
FLIPPING COINS: The Band
This is to put every one on notice — “Flipping Coins” is an upcoming all Filipino band which can be said to have began by accident in
2008. A year later, they were invited to perform at a benefit concert for leukemia and cancer awareness in Chicago with five other bands. In
August 2009, they competed in the Lindenhurst (Illinois) “Battle of the Bands” and won first place. The rest — as they say — is history. The
band began with Pete Arteche (rhythm guitar) whose basement in Waukegan, Illinois bears witness to the band’s early beginnings. Other
members are Archie Punzalan (vocalist and keyboard), Jun Villaruz (bass guitar), Jeff Catli (lead guitar) and Gilbert Mariano (drums). Flipping
Coins was live in concert in Milwaukee on October 23, 2009, at the Tripoli Shrine Center, 3000 W. Wisconsin Avenue, to great fun. Pete
Arteche and his wife, Hope, are not strangers to Milwaukee. They are members of the All Nations Bible Church of Pastor Paul Clemente on the
south side. Pete’s mother-in-law, Rhode Aliposa, a retired nurse, was one of FANHS Wisconsin’s “Women of Achievement” awardees in 2003;
and Levi Aliposa, his brother-in-law, is a well- known and well-loved member of Pintig-Circa, the now famous theatre group from Chicago,
where he once served as executive director. Due to their warm reception in Milwaukee, Flipping Coins will be performing at the International
Holiday Folk Fair, a Wisconsin institution, on its 66th year, at the State Fair Park Grounds in West Allis, November 20-22, 2009.
JENNIFER DAISY RAMIREZ: Cancer Survivor
Jennifer Daisy Ramirez is the “reason” Flipping Coins were in Milwaukee on October 23rd. For purposes of this write-up, it is important to
put some perspective into this narrative. Jennifer’s mother, Cora Beckett, has a friend from church; her name is Irene Stewart. They are
members of the All Nation’s Bible Church of Pastor Paul Clemente, mentioned above. Small world, isn’t it? Pastor Paul was honored by FANHS
in 2009 as one of the “Outstanding Young Professionals in Wisconsin.” In March 2004, Jennifer was first diagnosed with Stage 2 breast
cancer, she was 35 years old. She had surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, and it was believed that she had licked the disease. Jennifer
pursued her college education at Trinity International University, until her husband’s company went bankrupt. They moved to Texas where her
husband found employment with General Motors. In 2007, as they were settling down into a new home and a new community, the cancer
resurfaced, this time it was Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. This means that the cancer cells did not die from the earlier chemo and
radiation, but went into her blood stream, and laid dormant. At this time, she was given up to five years to live. Jennifer began hormone
therapy for four months. Then she participated in a clinical trial of chemotherapy for a year, which did not show any visible improvements.
While undergoing every type of treatment available, and worrying about her health, GM declared bankruptcy and her husband was laid off for
eight weeks with a mandatory shut-down of two weeks without pay.
Last year, Pastor Paul’s mom, our own “Mama Norma,” invited me to attend a Christmas service at the All Nations Bible Church, on a
snowy, wintry evening, to hear the story of a “cancer survivor.” I went and listened to Jennifer telling the congregation that were it not for her
strong and abiding faith, she would not have been able to live through the trials and vicissitudes of this illness. She was, according to her,
strengthened by the prayers of her friends in this church, their love and phone calls. I liked her story, and hoped one day to include it in the
many Wisconsin stories that those of us in the Historical Society collect and publish. After the October 23 concert, which I attended, I emailed
Irene to inquire if by coincidence, this is the same lady who I heard bearing testimony on that cold December evening. Irene was not in
attendance then, but confirmed that indeed it was, and told me how they were friends. Irene Stewart always wanted to do something for her
friend — didn’t know how, prayed for guidance, until the Flipping Coins gave a sample of their music at the FAAWIS (Filipino American
Association of Wisconsin) dinner dance on September 13. An idea was born. It began privately, and was to be a dance with the Flipping Coins
providing the music. Irene asked her employer (Metro Home Health Services, Inc.) for support, and they enthusiastically endorsed the concept,
ending up offering to sponsor the costs of the venue. And what originally was a small party, turned out to be a “concert” with about 300
people in attendance. To make the concert a community event, Irene approached the FAAWIS and the Philippine Center for support, and offered
to make them, other than Jennifer — beneficiaries of this event. Thanks to Irene and the sponsors — especially to Dave Bowen, Rosemarie
Schimeall, Dr. May Yabut, Beth Bueno, Edgar and Rehmie Azcueta, Rose Ricks, Dr. Violeta A. Singson, Kicks N’Sticks Dojo and Marlon
Patawaran, Dr. and Mrs. Simplicio Go, Dr. and Mrs. Salvador del Rosario, Alvin and Sheila Jackson, Dr. and Mrs. Ernesto Cababa, Carol and
Ito Conti, Leo and Mina Vitangcol, Remy Lanzaderas, Donald and Jay Salamone, Angelito and Belinda Tenorio, Norie and Lot de la Cruz, Ed and
Jazmin Sandoval, Gerry and Jojo Ramos, Linda Ramos, Dr. Elma Racadio, Drs. Joey and Remy Baylon, Drs. Renato and Annette Azcueta and
Armi Azcueta, Aling Clarita, Rhode Aliposa, Levi Aliposa, Mimi Ballesteros, Lydia, Shirley and Sam Escobia, Creme, and Delia Plaga.
INTERNATIONAL HOLIDAY FOLK FAIR: 66th Anniversary
The “Folk Fair,” as this international festival is known, is always held on the third weekend of November each year. For as long as I can
remember, it is “the” festival that made Milwaukee famous. It is a well established fact that the Folk Fair, on its 66th year, is a Wisconsin
institution, and is the “mother” of all the ethnic festivals that occurs along Milwaukee’s Lake front each summer. Years ago, when Filipinos
were one of the 10 Asian groups involved in the Asian Moon Festival (until the festival closed its doors for lack of funds a few years ago), we
knew everyone from the other festivals, because we have all met at Folk Fair at one time or the other.
The 2009 Folk Fair was held on Nov. 20-22 at the State Fair Park Grounds in West Allis. The Filipino participation has been at least 35 years
old. The festival had several components to satisfy every whim. For folk entertainment we had the: All Nations Theatre, International Stage,
Coffee House and the Music Pavilion. Folk Fair events included the World Cafe, Heritage Lane, Naturalization Ceremony (Saturday, 10:30 a.m.),
5K Run/Walk (Sunday, at 9 a.m.), and a religious service on Sunday (10:30 a.m.). About 50 ethnic groups participated in the various aspects of
the festival, and more than a thousand volunteers in native outfit, made this event both outstanding and unique, featuring authentic food and
merchandise. It was a virtual tour of the great countries of the world.
In 2008, FANHS-Wisconsin participated in a special exhibit called “Textiles of the Philippines” and won first place and a plaque “Best of
Fair.” This year, with the UN Theme “International Year of Natural Fibers” and “International Year of Astronomy,” which was also the festival’s
theme, FANHS had an exhibit that included a weaving loom, gorgeous costumes and outfits of natural fibers, piña, jusi, ramie, bamboo, rattan,
nito and other natural products on display. The FANHS exhibit occupied center stage together with Uzbekistan as part of the Special Exhibits.
Also featured were photographic exhibits, the World at Night, Bonsai, Resettlement of Refugees in Wisconsin, Peace Corp Exhibit and
Revolutionary War Encampment.
Grateful acknowledgment for the help and support of Dr. and Mrs. Alex Durtka, President of Folk Fair International, Glenn Penaranda of the
Philippine Trade and Investment Office of Chicago, Vernie Morales of the Philippine Tourism Office of Chicago and our volunteers: Sonia
Anderson, Roger Anderson, Amelita Clark, Norma Clemente, Marissa Crome, Paul Estante, Yoly Estante, Gerry Felsecker, Julita Felsecker,
Clemmie Fromer, Daisy Gracia, Jimmy Gracia, Elaine Jorque-Augustine, Remy Lanzaderas, Edna Lesada, Reino Lesada, Baby Lindstrom,
Ernesto Lizarondo, Baby Lizarondo, Mike Nazario, Marlon Patawaran, Maeimij Ribiero, Irene Stewart, Debby Tewes, Angelica Varona-
Camara, Gina Varona, and Dr. Guillermo Varona.
***************************
Remembrances:
Our sincere condolences to the family of Paolo and Krisha Cruz formerly of Gurnee, Illinois and now residents of Canada on the death of
Paolo’s father, Ogie Cruz, who passed away on October 12, 2009.
To Nelven and Tonet Austria of Gurnee, on the death of Tonet’s brother Edgardo Vilo, in Binangonan, Rizal on September 26, 2009, from cardio
pulmunary complications. Eddie is survived by his father Conrado Vilo of Kidapawan, N. Cotabato, and siblings Larry, Vilma, Emma, Josette,
Celeste, Gina and Faith Marie.
Goodwill:
Donations from the Philippine Center to the typhoon victims were designated to St. Camillus through Fr. Scott Binet and the Camillian Task
Force (CTF). The funds will be used for CTF relief and rehabilitation work in devastated areas in Boso Boso, Marikina, Cainta and Pasig.
Awesome:
The Living Word Christian Church (LWCC), located at 1821 27th Street, Zion, Illinois, is a small congregation of about 40 families, but
whose work with its missions will put many bigger and richer churches to shame. The LWCC supports missions in the Philippines, Myanmar,
Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Sri-Lanka and China. They also ship 40-50 balikbayan boxes annually during the Christmas season to these
missions. In the Philippines alone, they support at least 30 pastors in far-flung areas as Lake Sebu, General Santos, Tagum, Arakan,
Kidapawan, and Allegria (Cotabato), Bacolod, Kawit (Cavite), Sta. Rosa (Laguna), Paniqui (Tarlac), Cabucbucan (N. Ecija), Malabon (Rizal),
Manila and an orphanage in Pasig. Edwin Gagui is its Senior Pastor and Edward Cortes its Associate Pastor. I have seen these folks at
work, and they are truly awesome. They have my highest respect and deepest reverence.
Greetings:
If I don’t see you before the season begins or ends, please accept these sincere greetings of a very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous
New Year. See you in 2010. And I’d like to thank my siblings, Omar, Nasser, Al Rashid, in-laws, Tonet and Neneng, nephew Kenneth, nieces
Kayla and Megan for making 2009 such a wonderful year. I am especially indebted to my friends,
Ed, Jonathan, Mildred, Bell, Robert, Jess, Ernie, Susan, Rica, Jo, Evelyn, Jelly, Jerry, Flor, Ging, Tony, Ed N., Edna, Sonia, Millet, Angeli, Remy
and Baby for making my life extremely full and delightful. I miss Jeff and Nora terribly. Happy Holidays with love. — Emraida
later that the reason he could not reach the person at the end of that phone number, was because his arrival fell on a Sunday and there was
no one in the office at the Kalahari. Great planning by the sponsor.
The six other interns — all female and coming from various universities under the same program but with a different sponsor — arrived in
June in two batches. Marc had by this time befriended some locals, who helped pick up the arriving interns, even if he never met them
before. By the time I had spoken to Marc in October, he had been at the Kalahari for five months and was terribly distressed by the lack of
response from the Kalahari’s office of Human Resources, the disrespect by staff, lack of orientation, unkept promised employment hours and
overall discrimination. When he would go seeking answers from HR, they pointed him to ASSE/EDI, and when he called ASSE/EDI, they
referred him back to the Kalahari. At this juncture, the seven interns were staying in a two-bedroom apartment in Baraboo (a neighboring
town), and they were paying $1500 a month; their uniforms were not embroidered with the words “intern” and naturally they were treated like
the “help” in housekeeping. When they asked to be moved to another assignment, they were denied. At the time of my call, Marc was working
five hours a week at $7.75 an hour. No wonder he was distressed.
I emailed friends, and in two days, a member of FANHS (Filipino American National Historical Society) from Fond du Lac, drove to the Dells
with food, clothing and funds. In four days, the Filipino community in Madison had responded, and invited the interns to a get-together in
Madison and had organized a collection. I’d like to make special acknowledgment and thanks to Eloisa Callender, who advocated tenaciously
for the interns, keeping on the phone and calling both the Kalahari and ASSE/ EDI. We thought at the time that it was best to try to keep this
intimate and quiet. But the Kalahari began showing off muscle. The president of ASSE/EDI, Dan Augustine, promised to fly to the Dells and stay
“until this issue is resolved.” He came, talked to Kalahari representatives, talked to the interns and Eloisa, promised possible relocation and
returned to California without any resolution, no further follow up, no news and pregnant silence. By the end of that same week, the landlord
had served notice that the interns needed to vacate. Eloisa helped to negotiate an extended deadline. At the time of this writing, Marc has
given up and will return to the Philippines by early December. Eloisa, bless her heart, has campaigned for funds to help Marc on his return
trip, and as of today, the donations in cash is a little less than $400. If there is any desire to contribute, send your check to Eloisa Callender, 21
Maple View Court, Madison, WI 53719. The six females seem to receive better treatment and have decided to stay until the end of their
internship in May 2010. I did not include their names because they hesitated to get involved. The Kalahari is expecting another set of
Philippine interns soon, and the cycle begins again.
Many friends gave time, support and help in cash and in kind. I’d like to thank them through this column: Susan Ledesma, Edgar and
Rehmie Azcueta, Agnes G. Cammer, Alan and Martha Rosanes, Noli and Jenny Ybanez, Al Gutierrez, June Gonzales, Jr., Magdalena
Mejillano, Ed and Nieva Escall, Eloisa and Jean-Paul Chavas, Leo and Mina Vitangcol, Nancy Uy, Amy Barry, Agnes and Jerry Salvo, Merlo
and Joanne Adalin, Eloisa Callender and Carmel Capati (Marc’s lawyer who has offered her services pro bono). I will leave the lessons to be
learned to each of my readers.
IT IS OFFICIAL: October is Filipino American History Month
On October 1, 2009, the U.S. Senate passed S. Resolution 298, and the U.S. House of Representatives passed H. Resolution 780 on
November 2, 2009, recognizing October as Filipino American History Month. It passed both houses unanimously. In Rodel E. Rodis’ article
“Telltale Signs” dated November 4, 2009, he gives a background on how this initiative came about. “For years since its founding in Seattle,
Washington in l982, it was always the goal of the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS) for Filipino Americans to be given our
very own month to celebrate our history and culture in the United States. At its biennial conference in l988, FANHS members unanimously
passed a resolution to ‘establish Filipino American History Month to be observed annually and nationally throughout the United States and its
Territories during the month of October commencing in the year l992, to mark the 405th Anniversary of the presence of Filipinos in the
continental United States.’” Rodis continues to explain, “After the FANHS resolution was publicized, Filipino Americans began celebrating
October as Filipino American History Month with celebrations and festivities throughout the U.S. Various states, aside from California and
Hawaii, would routinely pass resolutions as they have done in Michigan, but the celebration in various states somehow just wasn’t enough.”
To .many Filipino Americans who have helped to make this possible, please accept our eternal thanks and gratitude. To Sen. Leland Yee, who
introduced legislation in California and had it also passed, our sincere thanks.
FANHS-Wisconsin was chartered in June 12, 2001 and joined 27 other chapters in the United States. Angelica Varona-Camara is the
current FANHS WI President and Ernesto “Ernie” Lizarondo is Vice President.
FLIPPING COINS: The Band
This is to put every one on notice — “Flipping Coins” is an upcoming all Filipino band which can be said to have began by accident in
2008. A year later, they were invited to perform at a benefit concert for leukemia and cancer awareness in Chicago with five other bands. In
August 2009, they competed in the Lindenhurst (Illinois) “Battle of the Bands” and won first place. The rest — as they say — is history. The
band began with Pete Arteche (rhythm guitar) whose basement in Waukegan, Illinois bears witness to the band’s early beginnings. Other
members are Archie Punzalan (vocalist and keyboard), Jun Villaruz (bass guitar), Jeff Catli (lead guitar) and Gilbert Mariano (drums). Flipping
Coins was live in concert in Milwaukee on October 23, 2009, at the Tripoli Shrine Center, 3000 W. Wisconsin Avenue, to great fun. Pete
Arteche and his wife, Hope, are not strangers to Milwaukee. They are members of the All Nations Bible Church of Pastor Paul Clemente on the
south side. Pete’s mother-in-law, Rhode Aliposa, a retired nurse, was one of FANHS Wisconsin’s “Women of Achievement” awardees in 2003;
and Levi Aliposa, his brother-in-law, is a well- known and well-loved member of Pintig-Circa, the now famous theatre group from Chicago,
where he once served as executive director. Due to their warm reception in Milwaukee, Flipping Coins will be performing at the International
Holiday Folk Fair, a Wisconsin institution, on its 66th year, at the State Fair Park Grounds in West Allis, November 20-22, 2009.
JENNIFER DAISY RAMIREZ: Cancer Survivor
Jennifer Daisy Ramirez is the “reason” Flipping Coins were in Milwaukee on October 23rd. For purposes of this write-up, it is important to
put some perspective into this narrative. Jennifer’s mother, Cora Beckett, has a friend from church; her name is Irene Stewart. They are
members of the All Nation’s Bible Church of Pastor Paul Clemente, mentioned above. Small world, isn’t it? Pastor Paul was honored by FANHS
in 2009 as one of the “Outstanding Young Professionals in Wisconsin.” In March 2004, Jennifer was first diagnosed with Stage 2 breast
cancer, she was 35 years old. She had surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, and it was believed that she had licked the disease. Jennifer
pursued her college education at Trinity International University, until her husband’s company went bankrupt. They moved to Texas where her
husband found employment with General Motors. In 2007, as they were settling down into a new home and a new community, the cancer
resurfaced, this time it was Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. This means that the cancer cells did not die from the earlier chemo and
radiation, but went into her blood stream, and laid dormant. At this time, she was given up to five years to live. Jennifer began hormone
therapy for four months. Then she participated in a clinical trial of chemotherapy for a year, which did not show any visible improvements.
While undergoing every type of treatment available, and worrying about her health, GM declared bankruptcy and her husband was laid off for
eight weeks with a mandatory shut-down of two weeks without pay.
Last year, Pastor Paul’s mom, our own “Mama Norma,” invited me to attend a Christmas service at the All Nations Bible Church, on a
snowy, wintry evening, to hear the story of a “cancer survivor.” I went and listened to Jennifer telling the congregation that were it not for her
strong and abiding faith, she would not have been able to live through the trials and vicissitudes of this illness. She was, according to her,
strengthened by the prayers of her friends in this church, their love and phone calls. I liked her story, and hoped one day to include it in the
many Wisconsin stories that those of us in the Historical Society collect and publish. After the October 23 concert, which I attended, I emailed
Irene to inquire if by coincidence, this is the same lady who I heard bearing testimony on that cold December evening. Irene was not in
attendance then, but confirmed that indeed it was, and told me how they were friends. Irene Stewart always wanted to do something for her
friend — didn’t know how, prayed for guidance, until the Flipping Coins gave a sample of their music at the FAAWIS (Filipino American
Association of Wisconsin) dinner dance on September 13. An idea was born. It began privately, and was to be a dance with the Flipping Coins
providing the music. Irene asked her employer (Metro Home Health Services, Inc.) for support, and they enthusiastically endorsed the concept,
ending up offering to sponsor the costs of the venue. And what originally was a small party, turned out to be a “concert” with about 300
people in attendance. To make the concert a community event, Irene approached the FAAWIS and the Philippine Center for support, and offered
to make them, other than Jennifer — beneficiaries of this event. Thanks to Irene and the sponsors — especially to Dave Bowen, Rosemarie
Schimeall, Dr. May Yabut, Beth Bueno, Edgar and Rehmie Azcueta, Rose Ricks, Dr. Violeta A. Singson, Kicks N’Sticks Dojo and Marlon
Patawaran, Dr. and Mrs. Simplicio Go, Dr. and Mrs. Salvador del Rosario, Alvin and Sheila Jackson, Dr. and Mrs. Ernesto Cababa, Carol and
Ito Conti, Leo and Mina Vitangcol, Remy Lanzaderas, Donald and Jay Salamone, Angelito and Belinda Tenorio, Norie and Lot de la Cruz, Ed and
Jazmin Sandoval, Gerry and Jojo Ramos, Linda Ramos, Dr. Elma Racadio, Drs. Joey and Remy Baylon, Drs. Renato and Annette Azcueta and
Armi Azcueta, Aling Clarita, Rhode Aliposa, Levi Aliposa, Mimi Ballesteros, Lydia, Shirley and Sam Escobia, Creme, and Delia Plaga.
INTERNATIONAL HOLIDAY FOLK FAIR: 66th Anniversary
The “Folk Fair,” as this international festival is known, is always held on the third weekend of November each year. For as long as I can
remember, it is “the” festival that made Milwaukee famous. It is a well established fact that the Folk Fair, on its 66th year, is a Wisconsin
institution, and is the “mother” of all the ethnic festivals that occurs along Milwaukee’s Lake front each summer. Years ago, when Filipinos
were one of the 10 Asian groups involved in the Asian Moon Festival (until the festival closed its doors for lack of funds a few years ago), we
knew everyone from the other festivals, because we have all met at Folk Fair at one time or the other.
The 2009 Folk Fair was held on Nov. 20-22 at the State Fair Park Grounds in West Allis. The Filipino participation has been at least 35 years
old. The festival had several components to satisfy every whim. For folk entertainment we had the: All Nations Theatre, International Stage,
Coffee House and the Music Pavilion. Folk Fair events included the World Cafe, Heritage Lane, Naturalization Ceremony (Saturday, 10:30 a.m.),
5K Run/Walk (Sunday, at 9 a.m.), and a religious service on Sunday (10:30 a.m.). About 50 ethnic groups participated in the various aspects of
the festival, and more than a thousand volunteers in native outfit, made this event both outstanding and unique, featuring authentic food and
merchandise. It was a virtual tour of the great countries of the world.
In 2008, FANHS-Wisconsin participated in a special exhibit called “Textiles of the Philippines” and won first place and a plaque “Best of
Fair.” This year, with the UN Theme “International Year of Natural Fibers” and “International Year of Astronomy,” which was also the festival’s
theme, FANHS had an exhibit that included a weaving loom, gorgeous costumes and outfits of natural fibers, piña, jusi, ramie, bamboo, rattan,
nito and other natural products on display. The FANHS exhibit occupied center stage together with Uzbekistan as part of the Special Exhibits.
Also featured were photographic exhibits, the World at Night, Bonsai, Resettlement of Refugees in Wisconsin, Peace Corp Exhibit and
Revolutionary War Encampment.
Grateful acknowledgment for the help and support of Dr. and Mrs. Alex Durtka, President of Folk Fair International, Glenn Penaranda of the
Philippine Trade and Investment Office of Chicago, Vernie Morales of the Philippine Tourism Office of Chicago and our volunteers: Sonia
Anderson, Roger Anderson, Amelita Clark, Norma Clemente, Marissa Crome, Paul Estante, Yoly Estante, Gerry Felsecker, Julita Felsecker,
Clemmie Fromer, Daisy Gracia, Jimmy Gracia, Elaine Jorque-Augustine, Remy Lanzaderas, Edna Lesada, Reino Lesada, Baby Lindstrom,
Ernesto Lizarondo, Baby Lizarondo, Mike Nazario, Marlon Patawaran, Maeimij Ribiero, Irene Stewart, Debby Tewes, Angelica Varona-
Camara, Gina Varona, and Dr. Guillermo Varona.
***************************
Remembrances:
Our sincere condolences to the family of Paolo and Krisha Cruz formerly of Gurnee, Illinois and now residents of Canada on the death of
Paolo’s father, Ogie Cruz, who passed away on October 12, 2009.
To Nelven and Tonet Austria of Gurnee, on the death of Tonet’s brother Edgardo Vilo, in Binangonan, Rizal on September 26, 2009, from cardio
pulmunary complications. Eddie is survived by his father Conrado Vilo of Kidapawan, N. Cotabato, and siblings Larry, Vilma, Emma, Josette,
Celeste, Gina and Faith Marie.
Goodwill:
Donations from the Philippine Center to the typhoon victims were designated to St. Camillus through Fr. Scott Binet and the Camillian Task
Force (CTF). The funds will be used for CTF relief and rehabilitation work in devastated areas in Boso Boso, Marikina, Cainta and Pasig.
Awesome:
The Living Word Christian Church (LWCC), located at 1821 27th Street, Zion, Illinois, is a small congregation of about 40 families, but
whose work with its missions will put many bigger and richer churches to shame. The LWCC supports missions in the Philippines, Myanmar,
Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Sri-Lanka and China. They also ship 40-50 balikbayan boxes annually during the Christmas season to these
missions. In the Philippines alone, they support at least 30 pastors in far-flung areas as Lake Sebu, General Santos, Tagum, Arakan,
Kidapawan, and Allegria (Cotabato), Bacolod, Kawit (Cavite), Sta. Rosa (Laguna), Paniqui (Tarlac), Cabucbucan (N. Ecija), Malabon (Rizal),
Manila and an orphanage in Pasig. Edwin Gagui is its Senior Pastor and Edward Cortes its Associate Pastor. I have seen these folks at
work, and they are truly awesome. They have my highest respect and deepest reverence.
Greetings:
If I don’t see you before the season begins or ends, please accept these sincere greetings of a very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous
New Year. See you in 2010. And I’d like to thank my siblings, Omar, Nasser, Al Rashid, in-laws, Tonet and Neneng, nephew Kenneth, nieces
Kayla and Megan for making 2009 such a wonderful year. I am especially indebted to my friends,
Ed, Jonathan, Mildred, Bell, Robert, Jess, Ernie, Susan, Rica, Jo, Evelyn, Jelly, Jerry, Flor, Ging, Tony, Ed N., Edna, Sonia, Millet, Angeli, Remy
and Baby for making my life extremely full and delightful. I miss Jeff and Nora terribly. Happy Holidays with love. — Emraida
This is their story:
U.S. internships are highly coveted because they are a sure guarantee of better opportunities, in a
tight and limited job market, especially in the Philippines. Marc arrived in May 2009 for a one-year
contract as a student intern at the Kalahari. Marc went into debt for about $7,000, hoping that with 32-
40 hours of work and a stipend in dollars, he could easily pay off this debt, and may even have some
left-over money to pay his last year of school and complete his degree. He left the Philippines eagerly
clutching the name and phone number of a Kalahari contact given to him by the Philippine recruiter,
who was to meet him at the Dane County Regional Airport in Madison. Four hours after arriving and
numerous phone calls later, no one showed up. Marc did the next best thing — he hailed a cab and
took it to the Dells, without realizing that the trip was going to cost him about $130. Welcome to
America! When he got to the Kalahari, he was told that he had to look for a place to stay, because
accommodations were not part of the internship agreement. Lacking knowledge of the Dells, and
unaware that no accommodations were made by the agency, Marc took another cab to a local motel.
When he got there, and was asked “Do you have a reservation sir?,” he stood there astounded. In the
month of May, the Dells is overflowing, it would be unlikely that there would “a room in the inn.” He
took another cab ride back to the Kalahari. The following day, he had to start looking for housing, and
virtually pounded the streets to do so. What better way to get to know your town.
Marc was recruited by a company whose main office in Cebu City is called POEC Consultancy
International, but he dealt with their Makati Branch, since he was a student in the Greater Manila
area. The Makati Branch is located at Penthouse - Room 15, Manila Bank Building, Ayala Avenue.
This Makati office is also the Philippines’ designated “visa sponsor” who has a sister company in
U.S. internships are highly coveted because they are a sure guarantee of better opportunities, in a
tight and limited job market, especially in the Philippines. Marc arrived in May 2009 for a one-year
contract as a student intern at the Kalahari. Marc went into debt for about $7,000, hoping that with 32-
40 hours of work and a stipend in dollars, he could easily pay off this debt, and may even have some
left-over money to pay his last year of school and complete his degree. He left the Philippines eagerly
clutching the name and phone number of a Kalahari contact given to him by the Philippine recruiter,
who was to meet him at the Dane County Regional Airport in Madison. Four hours after arriving and
numerous phone calls later, no one showed up. Marc did the next best thing — he hailed a cab and
took it to the Dells, without realizing that the trip was going to cost him about $130. Welcome to
America! When he got to the Kalahari, he was told that he had to look for a place to stay, because
accommodations were not part of the internship agreement. Lacking knowledge of the Dells, and
unaware that no accommodations were made by the agency, Marc took another cab to a local motel.
When he got there, and was asked “Do you have a reservation sir?,” he stood there astounded. In the
month of May, the Dells is overflowing, it would be unlikely that there would “a room in the inn.” He
took another cab ride back to the Kalahari. The following day, he had to start looking for housing, and
virtually pounded the streets to do so. What better way to get to know your town.
Marc was recruited by a company whose main office in Cebu City is called POEC Consultancy
International, but he dealt with their Makati Branch, since he was a student in the Greater Manila
area. The Makati Branch is located at Penthouse - Room 15, Manila Bank Building, Ayala Avenue.
This Makati office is also the Philippines’ designated “visa sponsor” who has a sister company in
Marc Pangan