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 PAGGAWA's Induction Ball - Big Success
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September 30, 2006
A new set of officers, committee chairpersons and board of directors for 2006 - 2008 of the Philippine-American Group of Greater Waterbury Area were inducted at the Courtyard Marriot in Downtown Waterbury. PAGGAWA had only anticipated 110 guests to begin with. 120 plus actually attended the momentus ocassion. The Induction Ball included award recognitions for excellence in community service, a stunning performance of a hip-hop ensemble by the PAGGAWA youth, and a crisp presentation of the Filipino traditional dance (Tinikling) done by the members respectively. Also, a fashion show of Filipina dresses (designed by Alfonso-Guinoo) was exhibited. Officers and board of directors were elected to their new terms on February 19, 2006 at the Hampton Inn in Waterbury. A good time was had by all.
Watch The Tinikling Performance (Click Here)
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Past President Honored as Mayor for the Day
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June 9, 2006
PAGGAWA outgoing President Julius Fajardo was honored as Mayor for the Day of the City of Waterbury. It was the first time a Filipino was given the recognition. This event brought to the forefront the presence and contribution of Filipino-Americans in the Greater Waterbury area, as well as the American society in general.
In his speech, Julius acknowledged that the U.S. is home to the largest group of Filipinos outside of the Philippines. "The Filipino community in Connecticut has grown over the years and continues to do so. We come to you and contribute to the community as doctors, nurses... all of whom have helped enrich [America's] economy and cultural heritage," says Mr. Fajardo.
The hour long activity included a photo shoot, raising of the Filipino flag, singing of the national anthem, displays of Filipino culture (food, exhibits) and a presentation of citations by the incumbent Mayor Jarjura and former congresswoman Nancy Johnson. It is also important to note that Filipino-American Association of Western Connecticut (FAAWC) showed their support with a presentation of a traditional candle dance of their own. "We came on different ships, but now we are all on the same boat," Mr. Fajardo proudly states.
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Safety Streets Program Launched
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June 6, 2006
The Safety Streetes Program was initially conducted at two area schools of Waterbury (Blessed Sacrament, Carrington). The program teaches kids (kindergarten through 1st grade) safe practices while crossing streets, boarding and disembarking school buses, biking, and proper use of a helmet. Complete with props (school bus, ambulance, traffic lights, police car) Papi Manalot patiently demonstrated street safety practices to the children, and they enthusiastically did return demonstrations. At the end, stickers and native bookmarkers were distributed to all participants. Special Philippine souvenirs were also given to the teachers.
Assisting in the program were: Papi Manaloto (head coordinator), Joy Angel, Ruth Tolentino, Erwin & Francis Panabella, Hermie Labrador, Fe Friedmean and Mr. and Mrs. Julius and Wennie Fajardo. PAGGAWA urges everyone to be safe out there for coming holiday season!
 
 
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Book Drive for the Philppines
Ongoing
The PAGGAWA book drive, spearheaded by Nina and Jim Givan, is collecting new and used books to be sent to the Philippines. Barrio Mangandimay Elementary School located in a remote, rural village of Nueva Ecija will be the recipient of donated books this 2006. Last year, PAGGAW sent hundreds of donated books to Sablan Elementary School and Sablan National High School in Benguet Province. New and used books that appeal to children ages 8 - 18 are preferred. Subjects of interest include: natural sciences, mathematics, arts, literature, world history, geography, social sciences, music, nursing, and healthcare. Encyclopedias, educatonal magazines and school supplies are also welcome. Help make a difference.
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