Hafa Adai yan Buenas!
September is one of our busiest months preparing for the annual Pacific Islander Festival. This year was no exception.
We proudly represented Guam (Biba) and the CHamorros in the PIFA opening ceremony procession.
Later that evening, we performed for the family & friends celebrating the 1st birthday of Zaraiah. Si Yu’os Ma’åse, Ashley for inviting us be a part of such a special day.
Rounding out PIFA weekend, Imahen stepped onto that stage ready to sing, dance and chant! From the newest members to long standing dancers, we joined together to share and perpetuate the CHamorro culture
Busy didn’t stop there…Imahen Taotao Tano came together with the other So. California Gumas (Houses), Kutturan Chamorro Foundation, Uno Hit, & Irensia Dance Troupe to participate in the Sons and Daughters of Guam Club’s 65th Anniversary. Jessie Bais & Ruby Santos accompanied the Guma’ musicians – dancing along with their voices will be forever a great memory!
We know not all the mainland Gumas were able to make it, nonetheless, you were with us in spirit. We were blessed to have Guma’ Imahe leader, Uncle Joel Larimer join us on behalf of his group.
Personally, and I believe I can speak for most of us CHamorro cultural practicers – the chance to dance under Saina Frank Rabon is amazing!
Master of Dance, Uncle Frank – was able to make a special trip out with a couple other members of Taotao Tano. Uncle Vince Reyes’s vocals are amazing and together with the musicians, I get fugu (chills). The knowledge that they share with us is priceless.
I can’t wait to see the pictures that Taotao Tano member, Rudy Rivera will be posting. Rudy documented the practices and the event by taking videos and pictures. Click on his name above to see some of his amazing shots! He also, was kind enough to share his short time here with us, in a small photo shoot. Si Yu’os Ma’åse Rudy. We will forever giggle in memory of your attention grabbing, “look at all of this”.
LAST but not least – a quick shout out…. Happy 17th Birthday to our very own, FUA. We love you!
Saina Ma’ase,
Dre