By LPJ
More than just a deja vu of previous celebrations, the 50th anniversary ball of the Santiagenians of the USA (SUSA) last Saturday, July 27th, was a bell ringer. It drew the largest crowd in five decades. Three-hundred thirty six attendees packed the grandiose ballroom of the Stockton Hilton Hotel in California. Excitement saturated the air. Nothing could have marred what appeared like a victory party. Victory – for the club’s staggering sustainability over half a century, and for more achievements expected in decades ahead. Kudos to its founders, officers and leaders, pillars of the organization, movers for progress, and inspiration for tenacity.
Not exactly a surprise was the number of guests that came from far cities and states, including Hawaii, as well as Canada and the Philippines. During the festivities. energized greetings and merry meet-ups regaled the atmosphere. Members of the organization, with connections with the hometown of Santiago, Ilocos Sur either by birth or affiliation, surged cultural sentiments nuanced in costumes, folk dancing, songs and speech. The evening’s extravaganza did not fall short of spotlighting the varied colorful, attractive and intricate Philippine attires paraded with music and dance moves. The male and female apparel changed with every folk dance featured. Quite impressive and ethnically fashionable, a showcase turning to be a tradition in every Santiagenian anniversary soiree.
Folkdancers at the ball (photo courtesy of the Santiagenians of the USA)
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