Kids Camp - Philippine Independence Day Celebration
By Mimi Ballesteros

Recently, FAAWIS held its very first Kids’ Camp in conjunction with the Philippine Independence Day celebration. This was held at Willowood Park in Menomonee Falls, on June 14th. That was a day to remember! We were blessed with beautiful, sunny weather even though it had poured rain for many days leading up to our event. It was a day when our children came together to celebrate their Filipino heritage. They had a glimpse of our culture by learning some historical facts about the Philippines through their social studies program. They were educated about common Philippine fruits, plants, and toys. The children also learned and played some of our traditional games such as Patentiro, Siklot, Turumpo, Sipa, etc, which they thoroughly enjoyed. But that is not all! The children were taught our national anthem, Lupang Hinirang, as well as Ako’y Pilipino. They closed the day by singing our national anthem as one big group. That closing ceremony was a proud moment for me, and I am sure, for everyone else who attended the event. I was proud of all the children, their enthusiasm, and all they accomplished that day.
     I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the children and their parents for their participation, the many volunteers who donated, prepared, and served food, and our youth leaders who guided the children through all of their scheduled activities.
The success of the Kids’ Camp would not have been possible without the tireless work, creativity, and dedication of the Youth Committee: Anne Benthien, Lorna Guzman, Flor Ortiguera, Dr. Sandra Torres, and Dr. Sandra Montano-Yamat. As well as the Kids’ Camp committee members: Edgar Azcueta, Edna Lesada, Patrick Moloney, and Ferdie Ramos. The impromptu participation of husband and wife team, Gerry and Jojo Ramos, with their presentation of the Filipino culture, added more to the success of our event. Thank you all very much!!