By: Maria Cyd Adriatico

Officers and members of the Zamboanga del Norte Association in Illinois (ZAMNAI) are spearheading the celebration of Hudyaka 2008 for ZaNorteans residing in Illinois on August 2, to be held at Proesel Park (by Lincoln and Kostner) in Lincolnwood.  The event will start with a Holy Mass at 11 AM and continue on to other activities which will culminate at 6 PM.  Highlighting the affair is the ZAMNAI election of officers for Term 2009-2010.  Only those who have registered (with their dues paid) can run for office and vote.  Also, Ruby Nalzaro, a ZaNortean and nurse with White Crane Wellness Center will be on hand to conduct the beneficial free blood tests and health screenings to the ZaNorteans.

For sports enthusiasts, the 2nd Inter-organization Sportsfest (Volleyball Tournament) is the main attraction of this year’s Hudyaka.

Though less grandiose compared to the annual Hudyaka festivity in the Province of Zamboanga del Norte, the concept of a day’s fun and camaraderie, the chance to reconnect with other ZaNorteans away from home or who have found Illinois as their second home, meeting new additions to the family and sharing ones favorite dish/food (pot luck) is the totality of this event.

Interested parties may contact ZAMNAI President Rem Sienes, (847)-962-5174; Event Chairpersons Clemente “Jun” Navarro at (773)-895-4590 and Kesa Bajamunde at (312)-607-3553.  For membership, please contact Desiree Lee at (773)-875-8338.

[Image: Eddie Artajo]