For Hometown News
TREASURE COAST -
Since the Spanish-American War in 1898, Filipinos have been a part of Florida's diverse history. Today, it is estimated that more than 5,000 Filipinos and part-Filipinos live in Indian River, St. Lucie, Martin, and Okeechobee counties.
They are doctors, nurses, business owners, government employees, agricultural workers and students. According to the 2010 U.S. Census Bureau, the Treasure Coast area is expected to see a steady growth in the Filipino population. Many Filipino professionals are moving into the area and starting small businesses.
The Philippine-American Association of the Treasure Coast was created in 1985 by a small group of Filipinos led by physician Trinidad Garcia. It was felt there was a need to bring together Filipinos who lived in the quad-county area to celebrate the traditions and share the cultural heritage within the community.
More than 20 years later, the Phil-Am-TC has served as a "home away from home" for thousands of Filipinos and their families.
The bayanihan spirit is one of respect, community spirit, education, responsibility, kindness, honesty and fun, the core of this organization. With this in mind, the PhilAm-TC is having its annual ballroom gala.
This event is open to everyone in the community, Filipino and non-Filipino. It will be an evening of elegance, fine dining and ballroom dancing at the Port St. Lucie Civic Center. Proceeds received go to the organization's college scholarship fund, neighborhood causes and other exciting cultural activities held throughout the year.
The Phil-Am-TC beauty pageant and ball will be held Oct. 13, from 5-10 p.m. Judges will be Port St. Lucie Mayor Joann Faiella, Fort Pierce Mayor Bob Benton, business owners Michelle Miller and Larry Lee Jr. and a representative from the St. Lucie County Fire Department.
The beauty contestants can vie for Little Miss Phil-Am; Ms. Phil-Am and Mrs. Phil-Am.
This will be a fun-filled and colorful cultural occasion that also consists of an evening gown presentation, a coronation and featured entertainment throughout the night.
Tickets are $60 per adult and $30 per child.
For more information, call (772) 924-5624 or (772) 224-1776 or email Anje DeoCampo at deocampo@bellsouth.net.