Both Illinois gov and GOP candidate woo Fil-Ams in Independence fete

CHIGAGO, Illinois — Gov. Pat Quinn and Bruce Rauner, the Republican Party gubernatorial candidate in November, will share the podium as guest speakers at the Philippine Independence Week Committee (PIWC) dinner ball celebration of the 114th year anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence, June 7 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Rosemont, Illinois.

Candidate Bruce Rauner and Gov. Pat Quinn. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

Anita Rosa, PIWC 2014 Chairperson, said that the community is honored with two distinguished leaders from both political parties showing their interest in reaching out to Filipino Americans in the Chicago area.

No fewer than 600 guests are expected during the event that will include those especially invited by the different beauty queens whose coronations will highlight the night’s festivities.

Winners of the PIWC student essay tilt will also be awarded, said Jo Wee Sit, the chair of this annual competition.

Rosa also said that she has done away with the traditional “Rigodon de Honor,” which will be replaced with a new community dance presentation on June 7.

She also said that the motorcade is now replaced by a parade around the picnic ground at Grove #4 at Labagh Woods, corner of Cicero and Foster Avenues on Picnic Sunday, June 22.

She reminded the public to attend mass or church service before going to the picnic since mass is no longer part of the activities.

Included in the parade are the different beauty queens, “Sinulog” and “Ati-atihan” marches.  The picnic is open to the public which can participate in games and contests prepared by the PIWC volunteers.

Other PIWC events include a Bowling Tournament at Classic Bowl in Morton Grove on June 1st, Sunday at 11:30 a.m. Event chair Tony Silvano is scheduled to announce the champion in this tournament. You may reach him at 773-307-6413.