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First hand report from 2001 Jubilee Celebration

TO ALL,

We are happy to report the spectacular Spirit of '76 presentation on the theme "Silver Cinemas" last Sunday February 4.  As the first jubilarians to use the newly renovated St. Cecilia's Hall, the 76'ers wanted the program to be remembered in the annals of the Hall's history.  There were over 50 jubilarians that participated in the program, one of the biggest turnouts to date.  Directing the musical extravaganza was the famed Audie Gemora (Repertory Philippines etc) and music for the finale composed and arranged by my brother Archie Castillo (Metro Manila Film Festival 1997 best composer, Helsinki 1992 Best composer/arranger etc) as a gift to the jubilarians. Of course we give credit to Sony Jalandoni '76 Jubilee president and our own SSAANA PRO Bessie Badilla who of course, stole the show with her dance and antics.

Bessie and I together with Sony Jalandoni / Lody Padilla (76 Board members) met with Mother Prioress Sister Angelica and Cecile Berenguer-Gonzalez on 1/31 to present the SSAANA check for the formation of a fund for our scholar. (A press release in Manila Bulletin marking the event was published on 2/4, copies to be shown in the next Board meeting)  I am bringing a letter discussing the details of the meeting plus receipt of the donation which Cecile has requested for me to present to our president, Emma Villareal. Sr. John was unfortunately in Gernamy at the time of the meeting.  We also spoke to Sr. Mary Placid who patiently watched the 76'ers on several occasions rehearse till 11:30 almost every night last week.  She has acknowledged receipt of Emma's letter and is requesting our continued support for additional expenses to complete St. Cecilia's hall.  I have been asked by Sr. Mary Placid to bring materials for everyone on the continuing work that needs to be done.

The class of '76 would also like to thank SSAANA for their support in allocating a portion of their fund raising efforts to our class.  Sr. Angelica is hinting that they need a sponsor for either a classroom or music room at the St. Scho West Grove facility which the class is considering.  The buildings are done but the classrooms are in bad need of items and supplies. Rest assured, the '76 board will come to a good decision on how to use the donation.

Bessie and I are excited and still a bit hung over from Sunday's festivities and am looking forward to reporting the results of our meeting with all of you.

Amy Poster
SSAANA Vice-President