Asian Journal- The Filipino-American Community Newspaper

LOTS of stories to tell you guys, but before anything else I suggest that you mark November 22 in your calendars. It’s the final presentation of Reflections, the longest-running Filipino-American award-giving body. Yes, you heard me right, the last year of Reflections! A lot of friends asked my why I had to pull the curtains down on this much-awaited and celebrated social event in Southern California. And I always say, I followed my heart’s desire. After 20 long years, it is time to take a much- needed break. But who knows, bigger and better presentations might just spring up! Allow me to express my gratitude to all sponsors, distinguished guests and my staff who unselfishly supported me and my projects through the years. And for its final bow, expect the 20th Reflections to be the most glamorous ever—that I promise! The dress code is purple, green, or black with purple and green accents. For ticket and show details, please call (213) 216-4923 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Boy, how time flies, huh? As I look back to the 20 years of Reflections, I realize a lot of things have changed! Life and times are indeed different. But I’m sure everyone agrees that there is one thing that can hardly be forgotten—friends, especially those who were around you when you were starting from nothing. One couple comes to mind…Bobby and Chit Feleo.

I met Chit when we were both new here in the US. She worked in Toyland which was a nursery back then. With determination, she was able to put up her own preschool where I did home service. It was there I got to know and appreciated her. Her nurturing ways with kids is no surprise for Chit has a degree in education, major in pre-school. Moving forward some 30 years, in that same location now stands a luxurious condominium aptly called Villa Conchita, the fruit of the couple’s hard work and dedication. I always look at them as a perfect combination. Si Bobby, pasensyoso and napakabait. Si Chit naman, malakas ang loob at determinado, pag may sinimulan, kailangan tapusin. Although Chit loves to garden and Bobby digs playing golf, the two always find quality time to be together. They have two beautiful kids, Kris and Kay (gosh, parang kailan lang, I was regularly cutting their hair as kids, tapos ngayon, they have their own families na!) Bumping into Chit recently reminded me of my humble beginnings for we were in the same boat. "Prayers and strong family ties. Pati na rin my grandkids and, of course, my husband, Bobby…they are my guiding force that is why we are enjoying a blessed life now," Chit said. The couple’s love story smacks of the saying "all struggles end with rewards." And that definitely is Villa Conchita. "I love the interiors…and it’s so spacious!" I gasped. The unit has three bedrooms, with a hardwood floor and a view of downtown Hollywood, definitely worth seeing! You might want to check it out. For info, call Henry Han at (213) 785-4989. Bravo, Bobby and Chit!

Maria Lui De Leon is another unforgettable name! I met her at the party of Chad Benedicto, one of the attaché years ago. Lui, as we fondly call her, was always the life of the party so to speak, definitely a standout. Aside from being sexy, she was very fashionable and "kikay." Me, being adventurous and fun-loving immediately bonded with her. One thing I will always cherish about her was when she trusted me with handling her hair and makeup on her wedding day. Struggling to prove my worth as a beauty artisan, she let coordinate her other special events, especially her birthday gig some moons ago at the Queen Mary that was a big hit! But do not be misled by her seeming free-spiritedness. Although she seem to all light and fluffy, Lui has a natural knack for business marketing. And there’s no other tangible proof of this than her progressive business that offers paralegal services for our kababayans; a position of guided trust which I know her to profusely give! To you, Lui, nice seeing again and thank you for being you, still the firecracker I knew. Take care and mabuhay ka!

One talent to watch and is Reflections 20’s Little Miss Philippines—Leann Langston. Leanne, a precocious eight-year-old kid, who sings, dances, and acts. She is currently in the 3rd grade of the gifted program and takes voice lessons under Jessica Purse. Leanne plays the piano and guitar and dances ballet, jazz and hip hop among others. She was at the "Buddy Walk 2007" for the Down Syndrome Association in Santa Anita. Are you ready for this? Leanne performs in The Nutcracker this December; Alice In Wonderland in January next year; and she’ll have a stint at Disneyland with her Dance Sprites team by February. Leanne is a member of the Hollywood Group.

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The author is a Marikina-born, award-winning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows, as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products available at www.skinbymonet.com. He supports many humanitarian efforts to include projects in his native Marikina, The Bantay Bata Foundation, and many more. To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com for more information.

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