‘The Chicago Filipino Asian American Hall of Famers’ is what makes this state so great!’ (IL Gov. Bruce Rauner)

By: Veronica Leighton

 

Marking the culmination of the celebration of the Filipino American History Month in the whole month of October (as passed by the US Congress in 2009), the Chicago Filipino Asian American Hall of Fame annual gala event highlights the undeniably valuable contributions of the Filipino Americans in the United States of America in various aspects in arts, business. health, science & technology, government, etc.

For the last twenty-four years, we have proudly presented, recognized and saluted the most outstanding and accomplished Filipinos, Filipino Americans, Asian Americans and Friends of the Filipino, and in every gala year, we cannot help ourselves but be amazed at the parades of accomplished talents, professionals, and leaders that we encounter from all walks of life, not only in Chicago but throughout the world. Each encounter is considered the greatest experience in our lives, and we are always left enthralled, mesmerized and practically in awe with each experience.

Every year, the list of our hall of famers have brought together the same quest for excellence, leadership, friendship, and respect for people from all over the world, regardless of gender, religion or political affiliations. They serve and have always served as the role models for the youth (even oldsters) of the world.

To all Inductees of the Chicago Filipino Asian American Hall of Fame, I can simply say that this gala event belongs to you. This is your dream event. So give it the magic that we all desire, through your achievements and performances, and your conduct. Always remember that you serve as the INSPIRATION for others to follow your footsteps, to emulate you, or even to be your own clone.

Thank you so much for the generosity of the following sponsors: Emir Abinion of Fox Valley Auto Group, Sidney Lee of Golden Country, Joshua Price of LumoXchange, Corrie Campbell of Our Lady of Hope, Dominick Geraci of Vista Group Realty, Ms. :Lourdes Livas, Gerry Rebello & Robert Maroon; and, of course, to all our committee members and current and past inductees of the Chicago Filipino Asian American Hall of Fame.

Ladies at ticket reception, Ciony de Leon, Rhodora Gutierrez, Alicia Monk & Pressian Tejero. Behind are: Ellen Perez Maguad (flowers committee), Rey Maguad, and guest Flor Kramer.

From left, floor manager Ryan Tejero with trophy handlers Kayla Tejero and Maya Leighton, with Producer Veronica Leighton and MC Maria Girlie Pascual.