One Last Adieu & Hurrah

Last Saturday, the members of the exclusive CAFA Art Club got together at the Grove. The on-and-of affair finally pushed through after a required adjustment in the party venue. The party was essentially for the classmates to see each other and reminisce about those who have gone ahead. We know that in the recent past, the group had lost two of its stalwarts in the persons of Bong and Nic. 

The ever attractive CAFA ladies who came to the party were: Emi, Fiel, Lulu, Cynthia, Norma, Cecille, Pearl and Nore. The male interlopers were Jess, Francis, Didi, Vic and Oni. Before the repast, a special prayer was said for the two late artists. In symbolic gesture, two black candles were dramatically placed on the dining table and lighted as the special prayer was read.

As usual Jess was a barrel of laughs.  Jess did not hold anything back when he described the last days of Nic and the private happenings he witnessed in the subsequent wake and cremation. The others in the group jumped in and contributed to the now growing urban legend of Bong and Nic. The group thought that this was the way Nic and Bong would have liked it. In eerie synchrony, one black candle was snuffed out after the group talked about Nic. The other black candle followed suit after the group talked about Bong. Hala! 

Overall, the talked about Bong and Nic was also about acknowledging their great talent and corresponding humanity (if not sexuality?). Typical of a CAFA Fine Arts party, the affair was boisterous overall and even raunchy.  Most of the sexual jokes were of course due to Jess' consistent teasing of the ladies and leading deprecating remarks re unknowing CAFA classmates who did not make it to the party.

See slide show for more photos.

Rodi’s Manda Pad

Last Sunday, the CAFA gang converged together once again. The place was at Rodi Picar’s modern pad in Pioneer Highlands building (in Mandaluyong). The modern interior of the pad showcased Rodi’s knack for interior design. The monochromatic dark hues of the pad’s interior surfaces (walls, ceiling and floors) provided an artsy and cozy base from where one can look out the long window line that wrapped around the living and dining areas. 

From the living room, the view of the Makati skyline is fabulous. Rodi’s guest enjoyed not only the view but also the good repast served by Rody’s old faithfuls. CAFA guests were Oni Mayo, Pearl Ortega, Dinky Einsiedel with Milou and Teena, Nore and Didi Lim, Francis RSantos, Alex Villaflor and Emi Mercado. Other guests include Ave and Marivic – Rodi’s friends visiting from New York. 

The ever present CAFA singing was evident. In the absence of the other NeoCafas, a new band spontaneously emerged. By this, I mean that new ‘members’ came to the rescue in the absence of the regular CAFASingers. Having listened to the CAFAs so many times, Didi and Francis knew the songs and thus they provided the melody line for the singing. With Alex, Dinky and Oni providing the harmony notes, a decent sound was actually produced! Drunk with the wine, filled with the food and relaxed by all the singing, the CAFAs finally ended up doing what they do best – chika! 

Of course the usual CAFA secret talk (with below the belt conjectures) regarding those absent was there. The long night ended with chikahan that was dominated by Emi to everyone’s amusement. I’m afraid there’s no way for me to properly describe what was said that had everyone in stitches.You just have to be there to enjoy – alam mo na.

See slide show for more photos.

CAFA 2014 Starter

Last Tuesday, CAFAs got together to celebrate Oni’s birthday and to greet balikbayans Rodi and Nore.  Upon arriving, Emi immediately inquired about Oni’s age but didn’t get a serious answer.  Finding out what Oni's age really is, the audacious Emi declared that it’s her favorite number (take it from there, guys).  Prior to the party, Rodi was tour guide to Howi (who had left for home) and so they were in La Union and Palawan a few days before the party.  Meanwhile Nore arrived from Singapore just that afternoon. 

For the record, CAFAs Pearl and Vic O, Emi M, Cecille A, Rodi P, Dero P, Alex V and Nore L were present and accounted for.  CAFA friends Titus and Botchi S  were also there to  join in the revelry.  Piano music was provided by Alex Salva, the NeoCAFA’s new musical director.  Fe B initially said she was coming but begged off since her visiting sister from Australia suddenly needed medical attention.  NeoCAFAs Dinky E (in Silay) and Hector L (committed) were not able to attend due to previous commitments.  The CAFA group stayed on past the midnight hour especially after Pearl insisted that the traditional birthday cake ritual be observed.  To those who brought gifts (birthday cake, chocolates, signature postcards, the limerick book, the gourmet hot sauce, wine, etc.) - my sincere thanks.    

The party was actually shared between Oni’s CAFA (College) and Ayayay (Gradschool) groups.  Both groups reportedly enjoyed the evening although it was observed that the Ayayays were semi-serious and modulated while the CAFAs were exhuberant and expressive (loud?).  Also, while the Ayayay hesitated to go forward and sing (since they were not prepared to do that), the CAFAs were bold and engaging (shameless?).  It was quite a novel and amusing combination . It is hoped that more CAFA happy reunions will be slated this year.  We’d like to hear from Bess C,  Tito V and Sam S – are you guys coming over this year or not?


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Gerry and Jojo R just came in from the USA and missed the Oni's party by one day.  It is one of their rare visits to the Philippines and the CAFAs got together with them at Comida China restaurant on Sunday. I understand that Gerry will be attending his HS Golden celebration.  The CAFAs who came to the resto to greet Gerry and Jo were:  Dinky and Milou, Vic and Pearl, Oni  and Bili, Rodi and Dero.    

See slide show for more photos.

CAFA Fun

In Manila for Claire’s December book launch, Nore fell in with the holiday spirit where she enjoyed some of the Metro’s exciting happenings; unfortunately, Didi was tasked to baby-sit the grandbabies in Singapore so he missed out on the Manila happenings this season. Over two days, Nore, Oni and Bili saw the Philippine version of the “Producers” show and enjoyed yet another Rocking 60s performance at Chef and Brewer.

 The Producers show was a Broadway style presentation capably acted out by A. Gemora, Gi Teongi , and other Repertory Philippine stars. The show was also a fund raising event of sorts by the organizers for the Yolanda calamity victims. And guess who we bumped into at the theatre lobby – Baby and Bobby Bareiro! The couple is retired now from traditional jobs and is thinking of more exciting activities for themselves. Would you believe another career in entertainment production? Being connected with the television industry most of their lives, Baby and Bobby certainly have the credentials to make this new venture of theirs a success. Good luck, guys. 

The Rocking 60s have survived their professional crisis period and are now set for heightened activities. The group mainstays led by Titus Santiago are front men Weng Erana and Dero Pedero. Then they acquired Cathy Castenada of the erstwhile Music Making Company. Together with Cash Manalang, the group are now capable of presenting an expanded repertoire (Cliff Richard and Petula Clark numbers as well as other classics i.e. Aquarius, Those Were the Days, etc).

See slide show for more photos.

Don't Forget the Soap

Last Friday, Dec 6, Claire had her book launch at the global city (the Fort). Despite the Friday Christmas traffic, the hall for the festivity was filled to the so-called hilt with well wishers. Based on the long queue who wanted their book copies autographed after the speeches, the book sale was clearly a success. (I saw them refilling the empty display stands). Personalities of the evening were Vicky Garchitorena (who was the guest speaker), former cabinet secretary Roberto Romulo and Citibank officials (Citibank co-sponsored the affair). I presume that the other sponsor was Lynn's new restaurant in QC which served the canapes for the event. 

The CAFAs who graced the event were Cecille (Ascalon), Alice (Jose), Imelda and husband (Cajipe), Vic and Pearl (Ortega), Fiel (Zabat), Alex (Villaflor) and Oni and Bili (Mayo). Nore's good friends Botchi and Titus (Santiago) were there.  Nore's other friends (from her Holy Spirit school, Canada and  USA network) were also present at the affair. Of course, supportive son-in-law (Alex), dad (Didi), uncle (Francis), aunt (Lyn), nephews (Jonjon and Armin) and other relatives were present. It was unfortunate that other CAFAs got stuck in traffic or couldn't get any transportation at all and thus were not able to make it. (Cat Belo waited at her place from 1 to 4 PM for a taxi that never came).

Claire's speech during the opening ceremony was nationalistic, refreshing and informative that made us all proud -  and which just goes to prove how she is a chip of that old block.

See slide show for more photos.

Our Long Running 2013 Reunion Experience

By Cindy & Rudy Rivera 

We finally ended our 2013 re-union with the CAFA and friends! Coming back to Chicago land seemed colder in temperature, and in our hearts. Eastcoast is truly beautiful! That "I Love NY" button is ever so true! you have the extreme urban feel, delightful country, and universal people! 

Also fell in love with Connecticut's 'Americana look', the terrains, the cozy towns, the unpretentious white houses, ....and not to forget the GRINDERS!! Thank you Romy and Rory, and Romy's sis Rosy - for sharing your lovely home, and being soooo gracious in accommodating us.... also found out where Romy's sense of humor, quick thinking, and that peaceful calmness came from: "Mama Esther B., when I grow up, I want to be just like you". 

Thank you Tong and Rita, and little Arthur, for such FUN company and part of "welcoming committee" in NY area.....surely wouldn't be as strong-a-bond without you. Little Arthur's "artwork" is now with my 'bookmark collections'! And, Eileen! you're so sweet to come join us whenever possible-- thank you for your lovely self! And not to forget that warm and beautiful cottage in Milford, Penn!! Hey! CAFA was certainly there!! Acoustic worked so good in that little ol' house when ya'll sang.... as when that Egypt song separated all your voices into harmony, 

Howie's surprised look in his face (at hearing the Egypt song) is UNforgetable!! so, even tho the house was sold,- - -'been there, done that' for CAFA! A great memory was imprinted on those walls! Thanks Howie and Rody! such work and drama you guys put into your homes. 

Thank you Nore and Didi, for the excitements, for winter-book-of readings! You're inspiring and so full of ideas!! - -but just your loss that you missed watching Billie go wild @ the apple orchard! Nope, she just won't take any other apple from anyone, but ONLY the ones she picked herself, ok? 

And since we missed half of 'yous' in the Eastcoast, it's just not whole without that first half! A big fat hug of thanks to Gerry for his great leadership, and for offering the Milwaukee Philippine Center, and Jojo, for your loving works of art and hostessing, and for sharing your family and their participation! 

And by the way, thanks to everyone's sincere gesture to compensate for our catering, but as Rudy have mentioned several times, 'It just wouldn't be SPECIAL if we accept payment - - It would be JUST another catering for JUST another group.' so, that evening, Jojo, Gerry, Rudy, and I have decided to donate, under the CAFA group name, half of the money to the good works of the Milwaukee Philippine Center, half to help educate underprivileged and battered women and children in the Philippines through the Ballesteros, whom we've come to know the works of the Good Shepherd Sisters, (if considering more contributions, go to http://www.goodshepherd.org/), and, the little bit of it went to compensate for the 3 great Help that Jojo and Gerry provided for us to clean and tidy up. 

Thanks to very touching "moonlighting" works of Bess and Alice just to be with us here in the Midwest. Your strong part in every re-union is such a MUST. You're like the 'sinew' of the group! You ladies are amazing! Same with Dr. Elvis and your lovely wife, your 'last moments' decision to come is so appreciated for the whole package of memories! Loving my new gorgeous bright red hat- - nothing subtle from you Lina! 

And, YESSS! Another keeper souvenir T-shirt to re-live all the fun each time we ware it - - so, we'll wear it often! Thanks for the 'eternal' reminder Ely, Arianne, and Enrique! Thanks also to everyone that came from the Philippines: Onie, Billie, Dinky, Milou, and Teena..... probably was the very core of inspiration that made this idea of re-union to 'come true'. Margaret and other out of town guests were proof of re-union's success, wanting to come on the next one...."wherever it may be".... 

Well, everyone, thanks for the memories. Until the next memory making! ('driveable' please?). Keep us posted on that Philippine affair this Feb. 2014, YOU, re-union animals, YOU!! LIVE, LAUGH, and SING!

-XOXO from Rudy and Cindy.

Picking Connecticut

Last October 14, some East Coast-based CAFAs headed for Middletown, Connecticut. Tong and Rita with Baby Arthur (son of Ariel) drove from their home in Rockland. Oni and Bili took the Metro North train at Grand Central. Nore and Didi were suppose to join but didn’t make it due to an appointment with the contractor renovating their apartment. 

The reason for the excursion? It’s fall in October and Romy invited the group to experience some apple picking activity in scenic Connecticut. Romy and Rory are temporarily based in Middletown to tend to Romy’s mom (Romy’s sister who did that work is currently on vacation). As we know, Rudy and Cindy are currently with Romy and Rory having driven together to the East Coast right after the CAFA’s Milwaukee reunion. 

It was only a day trip for the visitors but with all the planned activities, it felt more than that. The group started with lunch (kaldereta, veggies and strawberry cake with coffee later) at the New England house of Romy’s sister. The professional fare was of course compliments of the house chefs Cindy and Rory. 

From lunch, it was apple picking time at Middlefield, a nearby place with orchards. The gang enthusiastically ‘attacked’ the low-lying fruits even while the taller guys shared what they got from the higher branches. In a while, the plastic bags were getting ‘hay-vier and hay-vier’, so they say. From the orchard, the group headed for the village store that sold all kinds of organic rural produce. Tong found the premium “Honeycrest” apple that was not available for picking in the orchard and whereby he planned to pass it on to Ariel as those that he picked. 

Spent from the afternoon activity, dinner was a welcome event. Romy and Rory knew the appetite of the CAFAs especially after the dinners at Milwaukee’s public market. And so what else could the main dinner fare be? Lobsters, no doubt! New England lobsters that’s larger and supposedly better than anywhere else in the US! After the filling dinner and more interesting conversation, the group broke up late in the evening. The fact that Bili and Oni arrived home (Manhattan) past 12 in the evening, tired but satisfied, says it all for the camaraderie that went on in Connecticut.

See slide show for more photos.