Town of Ramapo: Philippine-American Twinning Committee News

The Town of Ramapo Philippine-American Twinning Committee held their elections on Saturday, January 31, 2004. The following members were elected to office:

Rolando Garcia - President

Edilberto Viray - Vice President

Martin Teodoro - Treasurer

Rochelle Garcia - Secretary

The Town of Ramapo Philippine-American Twinning Committee was formed in 1996. They “twinned” with the City of Makati in Metro Manila, The Philippines in 1998. Immediate past President, Flo Opulencia, founding member of the committee, said it was time to pass the torch to the next generation. “We have had three exchanges with the City of Makati. Former Supervisor Herbert Reisman traveled with the committee and signed a “Friendly City” agreement between the Town of Ramapo and the City of Makati. Makati’s Mayor Jejomar Binay would like to meet our current Supervisor, Christopher St. Lawrence in addition to having the students and committee members visit Makati again.”;

“High School students who win an essay contest are treated to an all-expense paid three-week trip to Makati. They live with Filipino families, attend school with their hosts, and are able to learn all about the culture and the country. A group of adults also went on the trip. They stayed in Makati for a few days, visited two other islands in The Philippines and spent a few more days back in Makati.”

In order to send students on the all-expense paid trip, the committee must raise funds. The committee is planning to meet on Sunday, February 22 to plan their fund-raising events for the year. The Twinning Committee is planning to return to Makati next year with a new group of high school students. Any adults who are interested in traveling with the Committee should contact Anita Finkelstein.

Anyone who is interested in attending any of the Town of Ramapo Philippine-American Twinning Committee meetings or would like more information, please contact Anita Finkelstein, Twinning Coordinator, 845-357-5100, ext. 326.

Created by superuser. Last modified 2004-10-06 11:42:20.