The FilMasons and Amasons Christmas Choir.Those who were present at the Christmas Cheers presentation at Beauty Point Retirement Resort can count themselves blessed indeed. It was a wonderful program which in my opinion showed what true Christmas spirit is.
The young performers literally hypnotized their audience with their talents; be it singing, dancing, or playing a musical instrument. They were very professional in the way they conducted themselves. Their parents have every reason to be proud of them and we thank them for giving their time during this very busy holiday season. (See separate post for more details of performers. Ed)
It is always a risk singling people out for praise but I feel that the following deserve our gratitude and congratulations :
Bro Nomer Romero for providing the usual fantastic line up of talents which is the core of every Christmas Cheers presentation. Unfortunately Sis Sony and Bro Nomer were not able to attend and on an overseas trip for a much deserved holiday.
Photo shows Sis Sen, Bro Manny P and WBro Romy doing last minute work.Bro Manny & Sis Do Placido for once again taking on the production of this year's Christmas Cheers program. Production is the sharp end of the knife in any presentation and we should be grateful that we have such a talented couple doing this vital task on our behalf. This included a late night session of rehearsals at their home and production of the programs (both content and printing/design) which were exceptionally beautiful this year. Bro Manny Santos for printing the certificate of appreciation for the participants.
Sis Dodo, Sis Odeng, Sis Irene and Sis Marilyn seen here taking a breather and enjoying the show.Bro Ved Reyes and WBro Romy Nieto for their very able assistance in setting up the technical side of the production. The sound system does not just walk from the car to the hall and set itself up and then back to the car again. Bro Manny Placido also unselfishly loaned his (the FilMason's official) sound system.
Seen here mingling with the audience, First Lady Sis Pen and Sis Ellen.Bro Manny Santos, WBro Bobby Briones and Bro Mario Baylon for keeping the cameras rolling during the entire progam and ensuring that there will be a record of that wonderful day. Also for setting up the after presentation venue downstairs with WB Jack.
Bro Ved, Sis Odeng, Sis Marilyn and VP Bro Louie relaxing & enjoying the show.Sis Odeng Santos for providing us with a legacy of beautiful costumes which continue to be used and enjoyed in our various activities. Aside from this, she, along with Sis Irene Baylon, Sis Nanette Briones, and Sis Sen Olaco, were always on hand to make sure there were no costume or prop failures and help coordinate the participants and the program. Sis Ruth for accompanying grandson AJ Reyes.
A very rare photo of official photographer, WBro Bob and seen here with the ladies helping the Hornsby Girls High dancers with costume adjustments, hair and make-up.Special mention to Sis Sen for stepping up as the initial compere and for providing the green and red hats. For Sis Odeng and Sis Irene for helping with the hair and make up of some participants and for Sis Ellen for wrapping up some gifts. For Sis Pen, Sis Tess, Sis Remy, Sis Marilyn and Sis Elvie for preparing most of the after presentation snacks (banquet!) and drinks.
Ms May Mateo, Christina Joson, and Christine Nguyen for the excellent emcee work on the day. Thank you very much, ladies, for running the program so smoothly and professionally.
The brothers and sisters of the Filmasons' choir (you know who you are) who gave their all in leading the community singing of traditional Christmas carols which is always a highlight of the afternoon and really gives it the necessary Christmas spirit. The residents really look forward to this part in the program and when we announced the last song, they looked let down but all good things come to an end.
VWBro Manny M and WBro Jack.Last but very definitely not least, VWBro Manny & Sis Remy Maniago for being the vital link with the Beauty Point Retirement Resort and enabling us to have a Christmas Cheer venue and most of all, for being the very generous hosts of our Christmas party (see separate post).
Ladies seen here all smiles after the show, Sis Remy, Sis Mila, Sis Ellen, Sis Nanette & Sis Irene.This is the third year that they have hosted us at this time of year and each time has been a wonderful and memorable event. It was noisy, happy, full (and I do mean full!) of good food, drinks, singing, picture-taking, and general merriment --- things that are always present at a family get-together; which is what this was.
VWBro Norm congratulating one of the performers, Ms Rosanna Placido with VWbro Manny M and President WBro Fidel Pamplona.Just a few examples of the merriment: Bro Manny Reyes included himself in several group photos - mga Reyes, mga Manny, at mga pogi (his words). The ladies had their own kris kringle and judging from the volume of laughter coming from the Maniago living room, the gifts must have been very interesting indeed!
The sisters are also to be thanked for helping Sis Remy in putting on our traditional overflowing Christmas banquet. Literally, suko lahat at napilitang mag take-away!
I have little doubt that I have forgotten someone for doing something. Please remind me so that I can similarly thank and congratulate you. But I do believe that everyone had a good time!
By VP Bro Louie Reyes (via email).
