JCRegister

I was invited to the Press Conference of PAFCOM Inc. (Philippine American Friendship Committee) at the Trump Plaza (in downtown, Jersey City) last November 20, 2008 for their 2009 Community Heroes Award. Thanks for the privilege, Mr. Hector Magno (PAFCOM 2009 Overall Chair) and Madam Ludy Corrales (Chair, PAFCOM-CDC).

The Press Conference

The event was three-fold: the first part was the official turnover of PAFCOM Chairmanship to Mr. Hector Magno. The presentation of the awardees then followed – each recipient (or his/her representative) was given a token of recognition for their contributions. The last fold was the introduction of other notable guests like Mr. Zaldy Patron – the newly-assigned Consul at the Philippine Consulate General of New York.

The event was attended by at least 35 people – composed of PAFCOM officials, awardees, media, and other guests. Each guest received a gift from Mr. Roger Gupta, president of Diamod Hut Jewelry.

The Gala will be on January 10, 2009 at New Jersey City University (NJCU). Everyone is invited, and admission is free.

What is Community Heroes Award?

Community Heroes Award is designed to recognize exceptional individuals who live and/or work in the United States and have made outstanding contributions to our community in promoting the goals, vision and mission of PAFCOM in community development and social justice.

The awardees have made enormous impact in our community and have demonstrated leadership in their niches through their extraordinary talents and contributions.

Community Heroes Award is divided into eight categories: Education, Public Safety, Community Development, Cultural Enrichment, Corporate Stewardship, Community Service, Arts, and Business.

Continue reading to learn who the awardees are ….

Awardees
The following individuals are the recipients of Community Heroes Award:

Education Award – Hon. Sandra B. Cunningham (Senator, 31st Legislative District)
This award is given to an individual who has promoted education as a means of providing opportunities to disenfranchised students in pursuing higher education.

Public Safety Award – Juan M. Perez (Sheriff, Hudson County)
This is given to an individual who has promoted and committed himself to protect, preserve and safeguard the constitutional and civil rights of all citizens, with integrity and profeessionalism, and provide quality service in partnership with our communities.

Community Development Award – Darice Toon (Director, Dept. of Housing, Economic Development and Commerce, Div. of Community Devt.)
This is given to an individual who has contributed significantly in the development of housing and public facilities and in delivering vital services by contracting or collaborating with various public agencies, not-for-profit organizations and for-profit developers.

Cultural Enrichment Award – Mary Ann Kelleher Arango (Director of Cultural Affairs, City of Jersey City)
This award is given to an individual who has promoted the preservation and enrichment of different cultural heritage hrough activities such as ethnic and cultural festivals, and visual and performing arts.

Corporate Stewardship Award – Roger Gupta (President, Diamond Hut Jewelry)
This award is given to an individual who has promoted best business practices in running his corporate environment.

Community Service Award - Patricia Bernabe (Owner, Phil-Am Trading, Inc)
This award is given to an individual who has dedicated herself to leading, supporting, volunteering and participating in community undertakings, large and small.

Arts Award – Dr. Jorshinelle Taleon-Sonza (Playwright)
This award is given to an individual who has promoted the richness and value of Philippine culture and traditions through literary, performing and visual arts.

Business Award – Oscar Fernando (Owner, Oscar Printing Services, Inc)
This award is given to an individual who, through his entrepreneurship and business acumen, has contributed much to the progress of the community he serves.

CONGRATULATIONS, AND SEE YOU ALL ON JANUARY 10, 2009 AT THE GALA!