Words and photos by Dionesio C. Grava
People use figures of speech to convey words in distinctive ways. Or to make light of things. Hyperboles for example. That’s precisely what this writer thought of the invitation for PinoyWatchdog.com to the event called 100 Outstanding Filipino Americans in the USA 2012.
To those destined to be awarded the honor, the salutation reads: “Congratulations on taking the next step in joining your professional community in your field and among Executives, Professionals, Visual Artists, Civic Community Leaders, Entrepreneurs and Young Achievers. As a vital part of this noble event we will present you to the press, media and the Filipino American Community at a… Press Conference & Acquaintance Party.”
The event was held on a rainy Sunday evening in Hall B of the Sierra Ballroom of the Universal Hilton Hotel in Universal City, near where the exit ramps of Freeways 110, 134 and 101 are.
As it turned out no pun was intended. Or, at least 80 or so awardees were actually there to be presented because as project director Darna B. Umayam said, the rest of the 100 will be coming from faraway places. They were unable to make it to the March 25 event. . However, she added, they have committed to attend the Black Tie Awards Night on July 28, 2012. That coming event will occupy the entire floor of the Sierra Ballroom of the same hotel because more than 1,000 guests are also expected to come.
By the way, it was also an occasion for the new officers and members of the Philippine Press Photographers USA, Inc. (PPP-USA) to be inducted into office. Deputy Consul General Daniel Espiritu of the Los Angeles-based Philippine consulate general gave the welcome remarks. He was also the inducting officer of PPP-USA.
Entertainment was provided by Sheila Ferrari, Antoinette Taus, Natasha Gaston and Elaine Bondoc. Among those seen in the event were Atty. Mariano Alvarez, Deputy Director Manny Ilagan of the LA tourism office, Councilman Elito Santarina of the city of Carson, Dr. Rey Landero, Dr. Carlos Manlapaz, Maria Amor Torres, Vilma Hernandez, Jojit Paredes, Lini Teal, Cora Aragon Soriano, Aida Arceo, Gene Dear, Adrian Lecaros, Atty. Ramon Mosqueda, Linda Nery and Rita Dinsay.
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