People, Events, Places (PEP)

  By Susan Palmes-Dennis   ROCKINGHAM,    North Carolina—The groundbreaking ‘Journey of Hope’    exhibit at the Charlotte Museum of History which showcased the works of outstanding Filipinos and Filipino-Americans along with other Asian and Pacific Islanders that immigrated to the Queen City was a huge success. The Filipino-American community was one of 23 communities who were represented in the exhibit that opened last May 18.   Aside from artifacts and photos briefly detailing notable Asian American figures and landmarks, the exhibit also features speakers who recount stories of survival, hope and perseverance of their respective communities that marked their journey to the adopted land. The Philippine section included the works of artists Edelweiss De Guzman and Malou Tabada Cordery and the books of legal historian Leia Castañeda.     Their works join precious items of historical value like the signed gloves of former senator and world class boxing champion Manny Pacquiao, pearls, b

  By Susan Palmes-Dennis ROCKINGHAM, North Carolina—The sounds of dancing feet and appreciative voices of the crowd filled the Matthews Playhouse where the 20 members of the Leyte Dance Theater group performed last Saturday, May 27. Not even the inclement weather that day dampened the spirits of those watching the 6 pm show as they showed up either soaked in their jackets or carrying umbrellas.  The Charlotte, North Carolina performance was part of the Leyte Dance Theater group’s ‘Padayon Pagsayaw the USA Tour.’  The 12 pm and 6 pm shows both started with an invocation by Beth Kremer (1st VP of the Filipino-American Community of the Carolinas or FACC) followed by the singing of the ‘Star Spangled Banner’ anthem by FACC area representative Marissa Olarte whose rendition set the mood for the performance. In both shows FACC president Dr. Edward Tautjo gave the welcome address and thanked the community for their continued support.  The 12 pm show was hosted by FACC auditor Dr. Stella Reyes