The Filipino-American Business Association of Glendale, in partnership with the YMCA of Glendale, recently hosted a Philippine-American Friendship Day Summer Luau where new officers were installed, and new members were welcomed on July 29.
The festive occasion featured hula dancing by Celia deFato, Marlene Cagatao, Pich Posadas, Olivia Lopez and Cora Soriano; a “Dancing in the Street” performance by the Sisterettes, with Jo Solomonson, Aura Puno, Emett Carr, Agnes and Yvonne Gonzalez; and Agnes Santos and Toto Mortel, who performed renditions of various English and Tagalog songs.
To congratulate the newly installed FABAG President Mariano Lacsamana, welcome the new officers, board members and recent inductees, as well as celebrate friendship, attendees learned basic Hawaiian dance steps and sang along to the musical performances.
Some dignitaries and special guests in the audience included state Sen. Anthony Portantino, Mayor Dan Brotman, Councilwoman Paula Devine, Philippine Consul Mari Cris Chieng who was representing Philippine Consul General Edgar Badajos, Assemblywoman Laura Friedman’s District Director Sebastian Lozano, UAPSoCal IPP Lucille Floresta, Attorney General Rob Bonta’s Deputy Director Jessica Caloza, FACLA’s President Trinity Foliente and Glendale Community College board of trustees former President Anita Gabrielian.
First published in the August 5 print issue of the Glendale News-Press.
