Filipino Association’s Fourth of July picnic is a success

by Ren Villanueva

LW contributor

The day of the Filipino Association of Leisure World’s (FALW) annual veterans picnic started with a gloomy atmosphere: droplets of rain falling on the FALW members setting up tables, chairs and decorations. The volunteers started to lose enthusiasm, but as the hour advanced, the sun started to peep between the cloudy skies, and hope for a smooth event was restored.

It was a glorious day, fit to the celebration honoring the heroes who served and unselfishly dedicated themselves to the preservation of Americans’ freedom and independence from foreign rule.

Around 200 veterans with their guests attended the event.

The program started with the group singing the “Star Spangled Banner.” FALW President Harry Varnas welcomed the people who attended and Myrrha Villanueva lead the invocation and prayer.

FALW members presented the different Armed Forces banners with their respective hymns. Taps was played followed with a bagpipe rendition of “Amazing Grace.” It was a emotional moment. The guests were entertained by the Leisure World Hui O Hula dancers, Aloha Club Ukelele Group, and members of the Dancing Feet Club.

TheFALWmembersserved all the guests with a variety of delicious food, including hamburgers, hot dogs, chili beans, egg rolls, rice noodles, potato salad, fresh salad, and a variety of fresh fruits, with cakes, ice cream, plus sodas and coffee.

At the end of the picnic, the veterans were given a gift donated by Mutual 17 resident Jacklyn Taylor. The gift was a hat embroidered with Lady Liberty, the American flag, an American eagle and the Liberty Bell with the caption of “United States of America, 250th Anniversary 17762026.”

Veterans were honored at the Filipino Association's Fourth of July picnic.

Over 200 people enjoyed the event.