Relief efforts by Republican Party members continue for Hurricane Gustav victims as the RNC normalizes schedule. Highlights of the convention include a stirring speech by former Democrat Joe Lieberman and President George W. Bush. (AJPress Photo/Miko Santos)

In a day fraught with uncertainties as Hurricane Gustav batters Louisiana, the GOP decided to change the tone of the convention to one of service and concern to fellow Americans. What would have been a series of festive events to kick-off the convention became fund-raisers to help the battered states. (AJPress Photo/Miko Santos)

A river cruise, Tiki BBQ party, and Civic Fest greeted delegates, guests, and members of the media as the Republican National Convention '08 kicks off, August 29, 2008 at the twin cities of St. Paul and Minneapolis, Minnesota. (AJPRess photos/Miko Santos)

Now on its 10th year, the Philippine Fiesta, held last Aug. 16-17 at the Meadowlands Exposition Center, New Jersey, continues to be an avenue that opens the doors for the mainstream businesses to reach the Filipino American consumers. Stars such as comedians Poca and Rey Kilay, recording artist Divo Bayer and RP based Bea Alonzo, Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes made a quick appearance for their fans. Other highlights of the Fiesta include the Miss Philippine Fiesta Pageant and the Santacruzan. (AJPress Photos by Miko Santos and Ziggy Martinez)