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Promoting Filipino Cultural Traditions Through Dance

Paying it forwardA message from the incoming president.

O F F I C I A L N E W S L E T T E R O F T H E F I L I P I N O A M E R I C A N A S S O C I AT I O N O F S O U T H E R N O H I O

Filipino AmericanAssociation

of Southern Ohio

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Our Philippine Roots (3rd in 5 series)

O�cers and BOD Pro�les

In This Issue

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( Continued on p.12 )

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It was the perfect day for a picnic! Blessed with a beautiful summer weather with light breeze, the Filipino American community once again gathered together for food, fun and fellowship at FASO’s Annual Picnic and General Assembly held last August 12 at Keehner Park, West Chester. Over 200 people from all ages attended the gathering. Food: The quintessential �esta food, “lechon” a hands down favorite among Filipinos was served along with other sumptuous Filipino dishes and desserts, and American picnic staples burgers and hotdogs. Filipinos and American friends and family members lined up for the refreshing halo-halo, a de�nite new favorite dessert for summertime picnic. Fun: With a burst of energy, game participants enjoyed various games such as: Name Game, Longest Line, Water Balloon Toss, Sack Race, and the Ship is Sinking. A twist to the Maria Went to Town game brought tons of laughter and interesting photo ops for some to cherish for years to come. Fun prizes awaited all the participants, win or lose, but the best take away is the memories made during the event. Fellowship: During the short program, FASO President Suzy Hussey gave a brief account of FASO activities for the year, and announced the nominees for the

2018-2019 O�cers and Board of Directors. Each year, the picnic has become the member appreciation event for FASO. The event gave the attendees the opportunity to meet new Filipino Americans, and make them feel welcome in the community. Maraming salamat to our volunteers who made the event possible:Registration: Cessie Damo and Mares BermasSounds: Darrell Roberts and Mike GerberGames Coordinators: Cathy Lorenzo, Cam Felismino and Janet PaguiganHalo-Halo Angels: Leah Moneymaker, Mary Ann San Nicolas, Vangie Escasinas, and Suzette Yude OlsonBanquet/Food: Sevie Alvarez, Randy Mueller, Tom Zablan, Dr.Rodriguez.

We are grateful to various food and drinks donors, and the Mc Cahan family for the AVON cosmetics giveaways!

KUDOS to our FASO Picnic Committee: Catz Zablan, Sharee Mueller, Leslie Abrenica, Jason Dimaculangan, Paul David, Butch and Mary Rivera, Suzy and Jack Hussey, and Bill Guinigundo.

2017 FASO Annual Picnic and General Assembly INSIDE SCOOP … DANCING KIMONAS

See you all next summer!

The Dancing Kimonas is the adult folk-dance group of FASO’s Filipino American Cultural and Performing Arts (FACPA) division. It started in 2012 under the direction of Mrs. Carmen Mesina, with Cessie Damo as costume advisor. This group has performed at both private parties and public events.

Currently, we have 15 members with Ching Hitzler as our dance choreographer and Cessie Damo as our Dance Coordinator. Our current members are: Mares Bermas, Cherie Bermas, Ella Bonotan, Becky Dioneda, Cessie Damo, Vangie Scharf, Ching Hitzler, Myrna Junker, Nancy Mathur, Fe Obach, Beth Piocos, Romel Villegas-Ding, Jinky Fejer,

( Continued on next page... )

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We are constantly looking for contributors and volunteers to help in creating a relevant, informative newsletter. If you have suggestions, ideas or anything you’d like us to include in our communication media please contact:

FASO Editorial Team

Phone: (513) 885-6042 Email: fasomabuhay@gmail.com

c/o Joseph Paul DavidFASOMABUHAY@gmail.com

OFFICERS 2016SUZY ALVAREZ HUSSEY, APRN

PresidentESTHELA URRIQUIA, MD

Vice PresidentSABINO BALUYOT, MD

Vice PresidentCORA MARSIK

TreasurerSHAREE MUELLER, MBA

SecretaryMALOU LUNA

Asst. SecretaryALEX TRINIDAD

AuditorERIC VILLEGAS / PAUL DAVID

Public Relations O�cers

FASO is a 501(c)3 Public Charity EIN: 27-1766139To donate, please log on to our website:www.fasomabuhay.com : Click on DONATEor mail a check to:

FASO c/o FASO Treasurer

Phone: (513) 885-6042 Email: fasomabuhay@gmail.com

CORA MARSIK1790 Calumet WayFair�eld OH 45014

LESLIE ABRENICA PAUL DAVID JASON DIMACULANGAN BILL GUINIGUNDO, CPA MARIA LUNA BUTCH RIVERA, MD

MARY RIVERA, MD VICKY VILLAREAL, IMG PAOLO VILLARROYA ERIC VILLEGAS, PHD CATALINA ZABLAN BETH PIOCOS RACHEL ROBERTS

to hear from youWe’d like

DeskSuzy’sFr�

DeskSuzy’sFr�

Suzy Alvarez Hussey FASO PRESIDENT

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The last four years...in retrospect.

Four years ago, I asked FASO’s newly elected o�cers and board members to share my dream. A dream of paving the way for the future generations of Filipino Americans to be proud of being part of F.A.S.O. – an organization that promotes the best of our Filipino culture and provides opportunities for leadership understanding of the Filipino culture. It is a cohesive organization with positive collaborative relationships with other Filipino and community organizations; an organization with a reputation of service to its community through education, cultural enhancement and public service. I am proud to report to you that the o�cers and board members have made fantastic progress in furthering FASO’s mission of “cohesion, collaboration and service.” The mission that embraced the objectives of the dream that they had taken as their goal. These awesome teams have generously dedicated their time, energy, creativity and passion to meeting FASO’s goals. I believe that many of you have been touched by these waves of change. I have witnessed pride in being a part of FASO. I have

heard increased knowledge and understanding about our culture from other Filipinos and other groups; I have experienced the “Bayanihan Spirit” – that spirit of togetherness and working collaboration, and I have

seen dedicated service to each other and to the community at large. I don’t believe that any president could have asked for a better team in the last 4 years. As I am passing the torch of leadership to Dr.

Butch Rivera, allow me to give my heartfelt apprecia-tion to those FASO o�cers and board members who served from 2014 through 2017. They have been and are the real power house of FASO: Dr. Esthella Urriquia, Dr. Sabino Baluyot, Cora Marsik, Sharee Mueller, Rachel Roberts, Alex Trinidad, Cessie Damo, Jason Dimaculangan, Drs. Butch and Mary Rivera, Leslie Abrenica, Paul David, Maria Luna, Bill Guinigundo, Beth Piocos, Dr. Vicky Villareal, Eric Villegas, Catz Zablan, Mares Bermas, Vangie Scharf Encinas, Rich Robles and Ninfa Guinigundo.

“ I believe that many of you have been touched by these waves of

change. I have witnessed pride in being a part of FASO. “

LESLIE ABRENICA PAUL DAVID JASON DIMACULANGAN BILL GUINIGUNDO, CPA MARIA LUNA BUTCH RIVERA, MD

COHESION

SERVICE

COLLABORATION

To foster harmonious relationship among members of the community

and other organizations

To interact, communicate, and participate in the cultural activities

of the community

To perpetuate and promote the �nest traditions and rich culture

of the Philippines.To help Filipino Americans within

our community in dire need of assistance as well as the underprivi-

leged citizens of the Philippines

Our Mission

( ......Continued from page 2 )

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Editorial Team

ERIC VILLEGASJOSEPH PAUL DAVID

Editors in Chief

SHAREE LEE MUELLERAssociate Editor

LESLIE DELAMERCED ABRENICABETH PIOCOS

SEVIE ALVAREZRACHEL ROBERTS

Contributors

JOEY BOQUIREN & PAUL DAVID Contributing Photographers

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From Suzy’s Desk

As part of our community outreach, FASO aims tobe source of support to our fellowmen who are in most need of our assistance. We welcome all who are willing to be a part of this e�ort to make a di�erence in the lives of the needy or the sick.

Be a FASO Volunteer

Please Email : fasomabuhay@gmail.com

Four years ago, I asked FASO’s newly elected o�cers and board members to share my dream. A dream of

1. Sharee Mueller – the best secretary a president could ever have, for keeping our minutes, and our organizational structure in focus.2. Dr. Sabino Baluyot for being a very supportive “devil’s advocate” who provided us with knowledgeable and experienced perspectives.3. Bill Guinigundo for guiding us through the intricacies regulating tax exempt organizations and for his family’s support of FASO activities. Special mention is for his wife Ninfa, who initiated the very popular “Parol” making event and for following through with our annual “Simbang Gabi” celebrations. Her memory will continue to live through FASO’s Ninfa Guinigundo Damayan Fund.4. Alex Trinidad for creating our FASO Website which catapulted us into the world wide web; along with Severino Alvarez our software specialist.5. Paul David’s creative and professional FASO Newsletter presentations and his many other graphic contributions including posters, banners and brochures.6. Leslie Abrenica for the very big part of printing our newsletters, �yers and brochures.7. Jason Dimaculangan, Alex Trinidad, Leslie Abrenica and Marcel Galman who have all been vital in the birth, growth and development of FACPA.8. Cessie Damo, who along with Ninfa Guinigundo and Vangie Scharf nurtured and developed our “Dancing Kimonas”.9. Paolo Villarroya for the many roles he has taken on with an easy smile and dependable productivity such as the Comboni Mission, World Mission Sunday and Annual Picnic.10. Catz and Tom Zablan who are our ever ready and dependable duo who have overseen our culinary section – a di�cult and vital part of every event.11. Drs. Butch and Mary Rivera for their ongoing moral support, their generosity enthusiasm and most of all, for taking on the torch of leadership to bring FASO to its brighter future.12. Rachel Roberts for managing our Facebook accounts.13. Beth Piocos – for introducing “De�ning Filipino” and for taking on the role of Historian for FASO.14. Cora Marsik – Our treasurer who has e�ectively managed our �nancial accounts.15. And of course, I could not have served FASO at my fullest without my husband, Jack Hussey’s support. Thank you, Jack, for being the “wind beneath my wings”.

There are many more whose helping hands have laid the path to FASO’s growth: our FACPA and Kimonas dancers who spent a lot of weekends practicing, our new and very talented dance instructor Bernadette Miranda, who has shared her personal talent and love for Philippine folk dances with our youth, Vicky, Estella, Eric, Rich, Malou and Mares to name a few who have been very generous with their time and talent. I would also like to give recognition and appreciation to the Filipino organizations who have supported us in our endeavors: BLD/OSG, CFC/FLL, Marian Group, APPGC, PNACinNKy and UFAM. “Maraming Salamat”. Thank you to all of you. Thank you for the gift of friendship, laughter and joy that these last 4 years have given to me. I pray that God will continue to bless our community with good health, fellowship, joy and laughter now and for the years to come.

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It is with great pleasure as incoming president to welcome YOU to The Filipino American Association of Southern Ohio- FASO. Among FASO’s missions is to foster awareness and education of our Filipino roots, customs and traditions. This serves to teach our youth and remind us of our connection to a far-away country of more than 7,000 islands- the Philippines, we also call Home. The unique spirit, heart-warming, & family-oriented nature of Filipinos are perfect complement to our American way of life.

For many years now we continually showcase various regional folk dances and songs, food, music and stories of and about the Philippines, thus bringing to the fore our country’s rich multi-cultural heritage. Not only is it diverse, it transcends borders. Through cultural awareness, we become closer to and with each other bringing appreciation and understanding making us truly a Family.

As we grow as an organization we will---- *continue to identify the needs of our members and communities we belong to and around us; *continue to be relevant through practical and creative outreach activities and through Volunteerism.

We acknowledge and deeply appreciate the support and contributions of other organizations- locally, across state lines, and even from our other Home- the Philippines. They, who share our vision of collaboration and inclusion- salamat po! It is the spirit of fellowship and commu-nity that opens opportunities, creates a window of active exchange of resources.I would like to acknowledge the donors and sponsors, the Friends of FASO, who throughout the years have generously shared their resources through monetary contribution, talent and time. YOUR contribution absolutely goes a long way. As we are purely a volunteer, non-pro�t organization, all donations go directly in support of FASO’s missions and programs that are made clear to the membership. We will continue to be good stewards of your generosity.To You who have become/are part of the FASO family, to those who unsel�shly serve on the Board and Committees, to the enterprises that see the value in supporting FASO, to those who are considering and will join FASO, my family and I extend our warmest sincerest thanks. I bid you good tidings as we herald a new year of opportunities and on-going celebration for our shared goals toward a rich and vibrant community.

Respectfully,

Butch Rivera, MDFASO President 2018

Paying It Forward

A message �� �r inc�ing

PresidentA message

�� �r inc�ing President

Secretary – Nicole Makasiar My full name is Nicole Pilar Peliño Makasiar. I am married to Dave Makasiar and we have 3 children: Nate (8), Dominique (6), and Diego (5). My parents are Willie and Sarah Peliño.I was born and raised in Manila, went to Assumption College San Lorenzo for elementary and high school. Took up AB Economics & BS Marketing at De La Salle University. Completed Masters units of Early Childhood Education from DLSU. I also have a Master’s in Education, Curriculum & Instruction Prek-6 concentration in International Ed from George Mason University, Virginia. I have 13 years of teaching experience and taught at Brent International School in Manila for 10 years. We moved to Cincinnati, February 2015 and since then I have been a home maker. My volunteer work includes: room Parent 1st Grade class at Cincinnati Country Day School, preschool God's Word of Wonder Teacher and Grade 1 Sunday School Teacher at All Saints Church, and Lead Team Member (Secretary & Newcomers co-chair) of PGITI, an organization for expat families of P&G in Cincinnati. I am also an active member of the Asian Gourmet Group of PGITI.

Treasurer – Cora Marsik I was born and raised in the Philippines and graduated from the University of Sto. Tomas with a Bachelor's degree. I am a Certi�ed Public Accountant with over 40 years of experience in private industry, mainly in manufacturing and construction. I currently serve as an Accounting Manager with a stamping company which supply’s parts to large automotive manufacturers. I joined FASO in 2012 and have served as Treasurer for the past three years.

Public Relations O�cer Internal – Rich RoblesRichard Robles is an Associate Professor in the Division of Experience-Based Learning and Career Education at the Universi-ty of Cincinnati and oversees the Mechanical Engineering co-op program. With close to 20 years of experience in higher education, Richard is a researcher focused on experiential learning, electronic portfolios, leadership development, and college student development. Richard holds a MBA and Certi�cate in Assessment and Evaluation from the University of Cincinnati, a MS in Counseling and College Student Personnel from Minnesota State University, Mankato, and a BA in Liberal Studies from Northern Arizona University. He is currently in the dissertation research process of his EdD in Leader-ship Studies at Xavier University. Richard previously served as the Education Chairperson for the Filipino American Associa-tion of Southwest Ohio. He currently lives in Wyoming, OH, with his wife April (also a Filipino) and their two children.

Public Relations O�cer External – Eric Villegas I am married to Leah and have two young boys Niko (10) and Owen (8). I was born in the Philippines but immigrated to Los Angeles when I was 10 years old. I received my doctorate degree in Immunology and Parasitology from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. I continued my research training in Cancer immunology at UC Berkeley before joining the research team at the USEPA. I am currently the Branch Chief and Senior Research Microbiologist with the Microbial Exposure Branch at the Agency and serve as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Cincinnati. I am an avid tennis player, and hope to have my entire family more involved with FASO and the Filipino community, and most importantly, I cherish my time spent with my family.

Auditor – Dale Dona I am the proud husband to my beautiful wife Soy and father to our children Ava, who is in fourth grade in The Summit Country Day School, and Tristan, who is in preschool at Montessori Academy of Cincinnati. I was born in Royal Oak, Michigan and grew up living in both Michigan and Ohio. I have participated in various Filipino associations in both Michigan and Ohio, with my favorite group being the Filipino American Student Association at UC. It ranks as my favorite because God gave me my most cherished gift in meeting my wife while participating in that group. Currently, I am in healthcare administration as well as property management for my family's various residential and commercial properties. One last note, I am the incoming auditor for FASO and not the IRS, so please do not fear me!

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O�cersPresident – Dr. Emmanuel (Butch) Rivera FASO member since 2006 Finance Committee Chairman FASO 2013 - 2017 Vice President APPGC 2016 -2018 Fellowship - Geriatric Medicine U.C. College of Medicine Cincinnati OH Residency - TriHealth Bethesda Family Practice Cincinnati OH B.S. Microbiology University of Santo Tomas Philippines

Vice President (1st) – Vicky Villareal I have lived in Northern Kentucky since 1994. I am married to Manuel Villareal, MD, allergist, and we have 5 kids. I was a stay at home mom for 20+ years before joining Abraham Research, a clinical trial company founded by her husband, as a clinical research professional, and eventually also as site manager. I am an International Medical Graduate (IMG) from De La Salle Health Sciences Institute and obtained my college education from the University of the Philippines and the College of the Holy Spirit for grade school and high school. My interests include the arts and music among other things. I am the founder of “Kalesa”, a company that brings in Filipino performances to this area. My vision was to �ll a need for such cultural performances for the FilAm community's enrichment and nurture, as well as a cultural outreach for the general community. Among the performers brought to this area were the icons of OPM Kuh Ledesma and Basil Valdez, Fe Delos Reyes and her team for the musical Amerikana (an immigrant's story) and the Philippine Madrigal Singers. Finding her kids mimicking the Madz's Filipino ditty, folk songs we grew up with, after the concert, was such a joyful culmination of that e�ort.I am also the acting chair of NAFFAA-KY, a national Filipino American organization.

Vice President (2nd) – Paolo Villarroya I am married to Abigail Villarroya who is the - Good Samaritan College of Nursing, Head of Education and Faculty and the past Pres of PNACinKy. We have 4 kids; Dominic (11), Denise (10), Danica (6) and Dax (2). They are all FACPA Members. My parents Ed and Nena Villarroya who are the founders of BLD Cincinnati. I attended Sycamore High School and Cincinnati State. I work in the Homecare industry and own “Paolito's Catering”. I am a member of BLD, CFC and FASO. My hobbies include: cooking, racing cars with the family, and volunteering in the Community.

2018 O�cers and Board of Directors

Board of DirectorsRitchie ChiuI am 41 years old, married with one child who’s 17 years old. My �eld is Medicine/Nephrology.I graduated from Cebu Doctors’ University IM: Eastern Virginia Medical School Nephrology: Brown University. I have been in Practice for 8 years. My o�ce is 3090 McBride Ct., Suite B, Hamilton OH.

Ryan ChiuI am a private practice physical therapist in Fair�eld and have been practicing for about 17 years. I have been living in Mason for about 5 years. Prior to coming to this area, I lived in Florida. I was born in Cebu.

Cecilia DamoI served as recording secretary when Amy Pena�el was President and the same with Virgil Villanueva in the mid-1980s. When Jason Dimaculangan became President for one term I was on the board, his second term I was �rst Vice President, and helped with most of the events FASO held during that year, especially with the holiday celebrations. I do not recall the exact dates when he was President. Then from 2010-2013 I served on the board. In 2013, I agreed to work as the treasurer but had to resign in the middle of the year for health reasons.

Billy GuinigundoI am the youngest son of Bill and Ninfa Guinigundo, and work as an attorney based in Fair�eld, Ohio. I am the sole proprietor of the law �rm, Guinigundo Law, LLC, and work as a part-time Assistant Public Defender in Butler County. I attended college at the University of Chicago, and received a Master’s degree in Education from DePaul University. I then returned home to complete my Juris Doctorate at the University of Cincinnati College of Law. My wife, Karla, works at Miami University as Director of Global Partnerships. We have a three-year-old daughter, Zora, who recently began practicing and performing with FACPA. We live with our two cats, Nalo and Link, in West Chester. I have been involved with the local Filipino American community for many years, participating with the PGAGC and celebrating FASO events including Penafrancia and Simbang Gabi/Christmas. I hope my Board service will foster the raised public awareness of the Filipino American community in our area and will create a bridge connecting FASO's history to the next generation.

Jason DimaculanganI am married to Christine and we have a son Jaron and daughter Sage. I have served as a past president of FASO and currently serve as a coordinator of FACPA.

Bill GuinigundoI graduated in 1965 with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Commerce majoring in accounting and economics. I am a Certi�ed Public Accountant practicing since 1965 and serve as Chairman of Guinigundo, CPA's LLC located in Fair�eld, Ohio. My service has included: 4 years as President of FASO from 2010-2013, President of PGAGC (Filipino golf association in the Cincinnati Area), President of IGT (Regional Filipino Golf association) and on the board of directors of various non-pro�t organizations. I am a member of the Board of Directors for FASO and Chairman of the Ninfa Guinigundo Damayan Fund which is administered by FASO to manage and direct benevolent fund activities for the Ohio and Kentucky area. I also serve as Chairman of Nominating Committee for FASO and as a member of the Finance Committee. I reside in West Chester, Ohio.

Suzy HusseyI am married to Jack Hussey, with 3 kids & 5 grand kids, graduate of U.S.T. College of Nursing, BSN, U.C. College of Nursing &Health, MSN; APRN in Ohio and Ky. Member of FASO since 1975

and president from 2014-2017.

Leslie AbrenicaMy full name is Leslie Orosa Dela Merced – Abrenica. I am married to Loretto "Jun" Abrenica Jr. and have 2 daughters - Mikey Abrenica (24), Kia Abrenica (20) and a son Lorenzo Abrenica (16). I am employed at Cincinnati Insurance Companies since 2006 working as a Service Request Analyst for the IT Department. Advocacy includes promoting and preserving the Filipino Cultural in today's time globally. I serve as a FASO-FACPA Coordinator - manages logistics (costumes, scheduling, transportation, well-being and safety) of the dance troupe. I have been a FASO Board member since 2015.

Sabino BaluyotI have been a Cincinnati resident for many years. I am a retired Otolaryngology (ENT) Specialist. I graduated from UST and am a Fellow from Cincinnati Medical Center. I have served as President of PGAGC and held a board position in many organiza-tions including APPGC and FASO. I have served on the FASO Finance Committee for 4 years.

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Ching HitzlerLocal elementary teacher in the Cincinnati area. Mrs. Hitzler has been involved in FASO for many years serving in many committees. She is a long member of the Ladies Group "Kimonas" who performs native Filipino classical dances. She and husband Bob is involved in several charitable works in acquiring hospital and medical equipment for distributions to those that could reuse them.

Sharee MuellerI graduated with a degree in Industrial Engineering and have Masters in Business Administration. I currently work as a Contract Specialist at Medpace. I have served as FASO Secretary from 2014 to 2017.

Beth PiocosI am married to Ioannis Constantinides, who I met while we were both pursuing a PhD in Chemistry at the University of Cincinnati. We have 2 children, Daphne and Chloe. I have served as FASO’s Chair of the Education Committee, led FASO’s participation in Greater Cincinnati’s Artswave Fine Arts Sampler Weekend in 2015 and 2016. I volunteered to be FASO’s Historian in 2017. I am committed to taking the “De�ning Filipino” presentation to FilAms across the USA. I am also active with the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) serving as region and State (KY) secretary. I also dance with FASO’s Dancing Kimonas. I am a P&G alumnus, a “P&G spouse” and I used to own a co�ee shop and bistro named “Bilog”. I am currently an academic director at UC, while also pursuing a few entrepreneurial projects.

Mary RiveraI am happy to be part of the BOD for FASO and look forward to serving another 2 years. I am married to Emmanuel "Butch" Rivera and we have two children, AJ, 28 and Isabelle 20. I am a physician with TriHealth, and though it is sometimes di�cult to �nd time for additional activities, I �nd that my time with FASO has been personally rewarding as it has enriched my understanding and my connection with our Philippine culture and has fostered new, and lifelong friendships.

Rachel RobertsMy full name is Rachel Sta. Romana Roberts and my background includes:• Served on the Public Relations Committee as Asst. Committee Chair in 2014.• In 2014 modi�ed size, format, presentation and distribution of the FASO Newsletter and was an Associate Editor & Contributor.• Public Relations and Communications Committee Chairperson in 2015.• FASO Board of Directors member in 2017• Dancing Kimonas – member in 2017• Coordinated FASO participation in the Krohn Conservatory's Butter�ies of the Philippines presentation in 2014.• Served in multiple and varied capacities in FASO, NaFAA- KY and with the Cincinnati Recreation Commission in 2014 to the present

Vanessa TeodoroMy full name is Vanessa Blythe Suico-Teodoro. I am married to Je�rey Teodoro and we have 2 children: Karina Blythe Teodoro, age 10 and Brandon Edward Teodoro, age 7. My parents are Drs. Edward and Vivian Suico and my parents-in-law are Danilo and Esther Teodoro. I was born in Brooklyn, New York, and grew up in Lorain, Ohio (West of Cleveland). I attended the University of Cincinnati to study vocal performance and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Economics in 2001. I then attended Case Western Reserve University to study law and earned a JD/MBA in a dual degree program. Currently, my law practice is “Teodoro Law, LLC” and specializes in Immigration and Family Law. I am a Research Support Agent with Lexis Nexis. My volunteer activities include: The Volunteer Lawyers Project of the Legal Aid Society of Greater Cincinnati, library volunteer for St. Gabriel Consolidated School, and room-mom for the second-grade class. We recently moved to Liberty Township where we enjoy biking, playing golf, sewing, reading, and traveling.

Alex TrinidadI am the father of 3 children, Jordan, Jessica and Josie. They are all involved in FACPA. I serve as one of the FACPA dance instructors and I also developed the FASO Website.

Catz ZablanI am a retired surgical nurse. My husband Tom and I have 2 children and a beloved dog. I have been a member of FASO since 2014 and has been a very active member of various FASO committees.

Young Filipino Americans who have not been to the Philippines often have problems associating themselves to a culture that they have not been exposed to. FASO-FACPA works extremely hard to promote the Filipino Heritage and culture and reach out to the youth so that they may connect with their roots and be proud of their heritage. Being a part of this group helps the children identify and relate to their origins especially when they all get together as a team. This group practices almost year-round. They are usually invited to perform for Cultural Nights in Schools and Major Asian Events such as the Asian Food Fest and the APA-Annual Picnic (Asia Pan American Cultural Organization). FASO-FACPA is also available for Private and Corporate Events with a suggested donation. O�erings and grants obtained by the group is used towards costumes, training materials and incidentals that help keep the team moving and growing. Practices and performances count as community service credits for youth that volunteer their time and e�orts.

Now is the best time to be involved! Join the group and be part of the community that showcases our culture through dances.

We welcome all who would like to learn, have the passion for dance, and have the desire to meet new friends who share the same origin.Practices are Sundays 3:00-5:00 PM at Business Management Services (1550 Magnolia Dr., Cincinnati, Ohio 45215). For more information you may contact :

Leslie Abrenica 513-259-8003 FASO-FACPA Coordinator, FASO BOD Member.Leslie Abrenica (leslie.abrenica@gmail.com)

Promoting Philippine Cultural Traditions

Through Dance

What’s Up with FACPA

World Mission – FASO-FACPA performs Alitaptap, Binasuan with a special participation from Tim Mira founder of PAMANA Dance Troup in Dayton and Tinikling.

Welcome New Dancers – Marty Robertson (14 yrs.), Angelica (13 yrs.) and Benjamin (9 yrs.) and the youngest of them all Zora Guinigundo (3 yrs.)

FASO-FACPA cooling down with ice cream after the

APA performance.

August 27th Annual APA Picnic – FASO-FACPA Youth performed Lubi- Lubi, Binasuan and Tinikling for the audience. The Philippines also had a booth sponsored by FASO that showcases some of our ethnic goods and items.

By Leslie Abrenica

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By E.A. Piocos, Ph.D.In this 3rd installment of learning about our Philippine roots, we cover the period from 2,000 years ago to right around before the arrival of Islam brought by traders in Southern Philippines (late 13th to early 14th century) and the later arrival of Christianity in Central & Northern Philippines brought by Ferdinand Magellan and his crew in 1521. Let’s begin with the date most familiar to a majority of Filipinos: the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ on December 25. What do we REALLY know about the Philippines during this period?

But �rst, what do scholars and scientists know about this time when Jesus Christ was born and later died? This is import-ant because this is the calendar era based on “the traditionally reckoned year of the conception or birth of Jesus of Nazareth, with AD counting years from the start of this epoch, and BC

denoting years before the start of the era. There is no year zero in this scheme, so the year AD 1 immediately follows the year 1 BC.

“Most scholars assume [Jesus’] date of birth between 6 and 4 BC, and that Jesus' preaching began around AD 27–29 and lasted one to three years. They calculate the death of Jesus as having taken place between AD 30 and 36.”

During this time around the world: 1) Rome was ruled by Augustus Caesar, considered to be its greatest emperor, and over the next couple millennia would rule that part of the world. 2) In the Middle East about 500 years later, the prophet Muhammad would be born, and thus would birth the Islamic religion. 3) In China, the Qin Dynasty was transitioning to the Han Dynasty (which closely resembled present day China), the Great Wall of China was being constructed, and Confucianism was the model of its government. 4) The Mayan, Teotihuacan, and, Zapotec civilizations were �ourishing in Central America. 5) And in North America, bison hunters of the Great Plains co-existed with the farmers of Mesoamerica.

During this period, our Philippine archipelago had a �ourishing maritime industry as evidenced by recent discoveries in Butuan of Southern Philippines (below). We were trading with our Asian and Paci�c neighbors: 1) South Asia in what is now present day India, Pakistan, and others in that region; 2) North and East Asia (Japan, Korea, China, and others); 3) Southeast Asia (present day Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, etc); 4) Austronesia (Australia, New Zealand, 5) Micronesia (Samoa, Fiji, Papua New Guinea). Archaeological evidence abound of these interactions (examples below).

Our Philippine From BC1/AD1 (2,000 Years Ago) to Pre arrival of Christianity & IslamROOTS ( 3rd in 5 Series )

Just like the city-states of Greece where there is no national government but each were related by common genetics and a culture that adapted to local conditions, our Philippine archipelago was ruled by tribal chieftains from north to south, especially along the coast and river deltas like: 1) The Kingdom of Tondo, 2) The Wangdom of Pangasinan, 3) The Nation of Ma-I (present day Mindoro), 3) The Kedatuan of Madja-as (Panay Island), 4) The Rajahnate of Cebu, 5) The Rajahnate of Butuan, 6) The Sultanate of Sulu, 7) The Sultanate of Maguindanao, 8) The Sultanate of Lanao. At the same time, our ancestors in the hinterlands maintained their farming and hunting cultures. Commerce and trading �ourished, along with many innovations that our ancestors put out and also learned from their neighbors.Our ancestors’ spirituality during this time was animistic, the “belief in innumerable spiritual beings concerned with human a�airs and capable of helping or harming human interests”, which eventually evolved “dramati-cally over time and began including more complex ancestor worship”. Coupled with some beliefs still practiced today, there are various archaeo-logical evidence of this culture (examples are shown below). The latest and perhaps most astounding of these discoveries are the intricate gold jewelries from burial grounds in Surigao, showing among other things that our ancestors were “astoundingly skillful goldsmiths”.

Much has been said about the Philippines’ abundant natural resources and God-given geographic beauty, but the centuries’ long colonization by Spain and then the USA was because of the great human resource (the Filipinos) they found here. More will be said in the next installment of this series.

Laguna Copperplate (900 AD)Earliest known written document found in the Philippines, indicating trade, cultural, and possibly political ties between political entities during that time.

Oton Death Mask (1300AD)Pre-colonial Filipinos believed that when the face of the dead is covered with a gold mask, evil spirits cannot enter the body.

Banton Burial Cloth (1400AD)Earliest known warp ikat (tie-resist dyeing) textile in Southeast Asia used as a burial cloth to wrap the dead. It is woven from red, black and white abaca threads.

The Golden Tara of Agusan (1293 AD)A 21-carat golden �gurine weighing nearly 4 pounds which is the earliest known image identi�ed to be Indian in origin. The image corroborates the interaction during the height of trade between Butuan and the rest of the Sri Vijaya Empire.

Flying Elephant of Lena Shoal (1500 AD)Made during the Middle Ming Dynasty (ca. 1500), the porcelain dish was recovered from the wreck site of a Chinese trading vessel, one of several evidence of widespread

Calatagan Burial Pot (1400 AD)Unique and classi�ed as atypical earthenware with ancient syllabic inscription on the shoulder, the Calatagan ritual pot is the only one of its kind with an ancient script, which was just recently translated.

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The Pista sa Nayon held last spring at Ramada Plaza was well attended. It was a joint e�ort with PNA Cin-Nky; APPGC, UFAMS, NKY Fil-Am groups, along with FASO. We were able to showcase some virtues such as Faith, Hope, Charity, Peace, Fortitude, and Temperance through our "Reynas". Each "virtue" prepared a decorated arch which was used in the procession. The purpose of the yearly Pista Sa Nayon is to expose our members to, and educate them on the rich cultural traditions which are celebrated in various regions of the Philippines. It is also a means to raise funds so that FASO can continue with the programs which we provide to members. We welcome with open arms, any and all volunteers who would like to be involved. The commitment, can be as simple as a few hours during the event, or if you would like, to be involved in the planning of next year's theme: "MASSKARA". It promises to be a fun, colorful and joyful event. Don't miss this! Date and location to be announced. Check our website frequently for updates and contact us if you would like to help with this endeavor in any small way.

The Filipino-American Association of Southern Ohio once again participated in this year’s Pan-Cultural World Mission Sunday. The Parish of St. Susanna in Mason, Ohio hosted the event. The event started with the celebration of the Holy Mass followed by a reception. FASO provided traditional Filipino food and entertainment as part of a diverse showcase of cultures. Our very own FACPA youth dancers wowed the audience with their ever-stunning set of performances. See you again next year!

The FASO Halloween Party was held at the Blue Ash Shelter on October 13, 2017. We had fun, carving pumpkins, showing o� costumes, trick-or-treating for candy, making S'mores by the bon�re and of course eating. We had a fun "THRILLER" �ash mob dance, lead by our very own FACPA Kids. Don't miss this event next year on Saturday, October 20, 2018; 6-10 pm. Come dressed in your costume and bring a pumpkin to carve. Hope to see you there!

Updates from Cultural Committee

Community Outreach

Pista sa Nayon

World Mission Sunday 2017

Halloween Party

Rachel Sta. Romana Roberts, Perla Weigel and Vangie Scharf. These ladies have devoted long hours to learn a variety of Filipino folk dances including: Bulaklakan, Tiklos, Tiboli, Sinulog, Salakot, Subli, Pandanggo Oasiwas, Binoyugan, Sayaw Sa Cuyo. We have also performed the Hukilau and Bakya.

This year we performed at several events including: The Asian Food Fest in Washington Park, Arts Wave in Wyoming, Our Lady of Peńafrancia Fiesta, a private party celebrating the 80th birthday of Cessie Damo and the Simbang Gabi.

The hard work, time and e�ort of our dancers are made worthwhile by the fun, joy and laughter we experience while learning and performing our dances. You are all invited to join this lively group of ladies. If you are interested, please call Cessie Damo at (513) 208-1692.

Mahal ko kayong lahat (I love you all),

Vangie Scharf

( ......Continued from p.1 ) DANCING KIMONAS

Dance Classes Ongoing!Sign up now!

Dance Classes Ongoing!Sign up now!

Please contact any of following :

(513)703-0944COORDINATOR (Youth)Jason Dimaculangan

Leslie Abrenica COORDINATOR (Youth)

(513) 259-8002

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Please present your FASO membership card to avail of discounts.

FASO 2017 Membership Bene�ts

FREE admission/food during the FASO Annual picnic;

FREE access to most seminars and programs organized by the FASO Education Committee; if the event is held in a special venue, participants shall be responsible for the cost of food;

Discounted ticket fees to FASO Christmas Party

10% discount to Dai Trang Bistro (Filipino/Vietnamese)https://www.facebook.com/daitrangbistro/ ; Phone: (513) 860-3777Address: 4970 Union Centre Pavilion Dr., West Chester, Ohio 45069

25% discount o� room rate at Ramada Plaza at Sharonville

$12 per person for a full day admission at Splash Island indoor waterpark at Sharonville. http://www.splashcincinnati.com

VIP Pricing at Beechmont Toyota on new and all pre-owned vehicles, parts and service (Please contact: ANDY WIESMAN 513-518-5147).

20-25% discount on Cincinnati Zoo single day tickets. You need to create a Username and Password before placing your �rst order online. FASO will provide the Corporate Code to members only. Purchase tickets at: http://cincinnatizoo.org/groups/group-discounts/

15% discount on published rates at Body Harmony and Wellness, LLC services *excluding gift certi�cates, hot stone therapy and wellness packages. https://bodyharmonyandwellness .com/Address: 511 Nilles Rd Ste D Fair�eld OH 45014 Call: 513-939-2639

10% discount on services at Meineke Car Care Center 7760 Reading Road, Cincinnati, OH 45237 (Roselawn) (513) 761-9900

10% discount at Christines Casual Dining & Drinks, 5770 Harrison Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45248 Tel:(513)574-1273http://www.christinescasualdining.comhttps://www.facebook.com/Christinescasualdining

Additional discounts & bene�ts for members to be announced later.

You can �ll out an application on our websiteor print out forms,�ll-out and mail to:

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