Rizal Fest

The 2017 Rizal Fest event marked a transformative change in our FACC, and it was a chance for us all to show a unified force and our love of community - to celebrate our intersection with diverse cultures. Our deepest appreciation to FACC Board member's Alex Gonzales, Dr. Rufino Crisostomo, Bob Mittenthal, Alfredo Barranco, Estrella Alamar, and Jay Cabrera, who was also part of the Rizal Fest's Team for his drive and positive energy - he flew in from LA!  

Also, Dr. Carmen Baldoza Banez, Joe Banez, Sunshine Baldoza, Mrs. Ramona Castillo, Nestor Evaristo, Dr. Guzman, Dr. Virgilio Jonson. Roberto Gonzales, Araceli Obien, Veronica Leighton, Joe Mauricio - HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JOE!, Leila and Ray Villar! 

To Jason Dela Cruz, for his belief in our work!, Lyle del Mundo - Rizal Fest Team - for his insight and connecting us with Awesome Fil-Ams!, Ray Distor for his super Rizal Fest logo designs!, Angela Arevalo for encouragement! to Ari Lehman for his vision and strategic outreach to our community, and Jay Ejercito "DJ JayFunk" for his special visit to Rizal Center, his insight and energy!  

Stars of the Day - our collaborative partners: Rampelle Aguilar - Owner/Chef of Oxtail Filipino Inspired, Arnel Ladringan - Executive Director of JHP Community Center, RJ, and JHP's student modified martial arts performers, RJ Lagrosa, master Argentine Tango instructor, Rock Dog (Fabian, John, and Alex), and international award-winning Master Carver JR Cadawas! Please let us all support and promote their work for community!   

We also acknowledged Mrs. Nellie Lequin Dy, who graciously contributed $2,000 in 2015.  I was able to speak with Mrs. Dy about her donation. 

A very special day for us all, we bestowed our respect and gratitude to Dr. Rufino Crisostomo, Board Officer and Immediate Past Chair. Under his leadership as chair, he bravely stood up to adversity and saved the Filipino American Council of Greater Chicago and the Rizal Community Center from dissolution. We are honored to have dedicated the auditorium as the Dr. Rufino F. Crisostomo Hall.

Many Thanks to Art Dilay abroad but with us in spirit. And to John Haines - Navy Veteran, in Wisconsin and with us in voice and spirit, for helping us develop our civic engagement program - to bring awareness of and justice for overseas children (including Filipino and Japanese/Okinawan children) of US military and services for veterans.

We are humbled by your support.