Earlier this morning, good friend and political activist Alex Garcia passed away. He was a great man, musician and was always willing to help out those in need.

We all loved him very much and he will be missed by all who knew him.

A great big thank you to Al Fin Restaurante and everyone who joined us for our fundraiser! We had a great time, great food and raised a lot of money!

We hope to see everyone again at the next fundraiser!!

Thanks to everyone who came to the Filipino Veterans Ceremony! It was a great event! Over 80 Filipinos from all over the Bay Area came to honor Amado Calimiquim, Lauro Busto, Regino Nacua as well as Ramon Malgareho, and Jose Que who are both deceased. Each veteran and their widows spoke about their experiences during the chaos of the war and the role of Filipinos in combat against the Japanese. I was moved by the stories, and feel strongly that full veteran benefits should be provided to these veterans.

We were lucky enough also to have the Kababyan Dance Troupe as well as comedian Dinky Doo join and entertain us!

Come join us for the Filipino Veterans Ceremony!

In World War II, over 250,000 Filipinos aided American forces in their fight against the Japanese. It was our strength and valor that brought victory for both the Filipinos and Americans.

Despite the valiant efforts of our soldiers, we were denied the benefits that were promised to us by the Americans for our help in the war. We understand that the fight in Congress has brought our Veterans closer than ever to what we truly deserve.

In order to honor and recognize the effort of these brave men, on Saturday, August 23, 2008 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Daly City Moose Lodge, (7535 Mission St., Daly City, CA 94014) we would like to celebrate those Filipinos who risked their lives as well as the families of those Veterans who have passed away.

If you would like to participate, know someone who would like to participate in this event or would like to donate to our cause, please contact Rhea Lynn Que Mascarinas at (510) 932-9275 or email: filipinoveterans@gmail.com.

This event has been sponsored by City College of San Francisco Trustee Julio Ramos, City College of San Francisco Trustee Rodel Rodis and City Council Member David Canepa.

City College of San Francisco Trustee Julio Ramos issued this Press Release during the August 13, 2008 News Conference of Gerardo Sandoval addressing the rampant crime issue that is plaguing the Excelsior.

Present at the Press Release were many of District 11’s constituents as well some of the friends and families of victims killed in the District.