By Bill Milan Adao

On July 23^rd, the Paetenians of Chicago/Midwest celebrated the annual fiesta at Linnie Woods Park in Morton Grove, Illinois. This was the celebration of the feast of St. James that people back home celebrate on July 25^th.

Paetenians from around Chicago and nearby states came for an afternoon of fun. The air was filled with Filipino folk songs playing in the background as people gathered into different groups to exchange stories, new ventures and reminisce of the good, old days.

The most important part of the event was the election of officers for the years 1998-2000. As President Tarco C. Cagandahan had expressed in that past, he wanted a set of officers that is young and motivated. He wants the youth to get involved in the Paetenian association in the Midwest.

I might say the new set of officers is full of youth and promise. The young new officers are: Cel Milan Adao 1^st secretary, Marra Milan Vitor, secretary, Bill Milan Adao, P.R.O. and Boyet Adao, Sgt.-at-arms. Larry Hortillano was elected 2^nd vice president and Joven Cadawas Ortiz was elected 1^st vice president.

As expected, Tarco C. Cagandahan was re- president for the 3^rd consecutive term. Cagandahan of course was pleased with his re-election. "Basta’t kung gusto nila at hangga’t kaya ko ay gagawin ko ang aking tungkulin," said Cagandahan after the election.

With the sight into the future, the vice presidents are ready to take on the challenges. "Kung ano ang sinimulan ay siyang dapat ipagpatuloy, " remarked 2^nd vice president Larry Hortillano.

First vice president Joven Cadawas Ortiz reiterated that they would pursue the goals of the organization. He was grateful to the members who have always been supportive. Ortiz hopes that every member and officer will continue to show up at every meeting to share their ideas and concerns.

The other elected officers are Connie Madridejos de Ungria, treasurer, Elay Cadawas Ortiz, business manager, Cesar Afuang, auditor, and Marcelo Lapitan, Sgt.-at-arms.

The group also named the Miss Paete, Miss Friendship and Miss Charity. They are May Ortiz, Mel Milan Vitor and Jamine Agbada Hortillano respectively. These beautiful young ladies will be crowned on April at the Sabado de Gloria Ball.

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