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Chamorros in US hold Easter picnic
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Posted on Apr 20 2006
It was five years ago when Paul and Lisa Laguana Merrill spearheaded the planning of a family Easter picnic for the Chamorros living in Arizona. When it started, only about 50 folks attended. Last Sunday, April 16, 2006, more than 300 people celebrated the 5th Annual Easter/Spring Picnic held at Cactus Park in Scottsdale, Arizona.
It was an island-style potluck fiesta from 11am to 5pm. Attendees were long-time residents and new ones who have moved to the Valley.We enjoyed the fina’denne’ and all the traditional dishes, too many to mention but ooh sooo very mange’.
A live Easter bunny (portrayed by Rick Gomba) visited the children and passed out eggs. The children then hunted for eggs (the plastic ones with prizes in them) and played several games.
Our deejay, Rodney “Bubbles” Gomba Dela Rosa, entertained us with Chamorro music, especially the song tristi yu where we joined in singing the chorus. He also played island reggae music and we danced our afternoon away to the cha-cha.
The camaraderie we all shared that day was wonderful. We ate, sang, danced, spoke in Chamorro, and the air was filled with laughter. Our photos tell the story. We hope all of you had a joyous and blessed Easter also.
Nihi ya tafan picnic, next year. (Claudia DLG Fajardo Kaercher)
