Philippine Independence Day Picnic 2008 at Earl Bales Park

This is my 3rd year Co-Chairing this free event for the Community. It is back breaking work that requires many hours of planning and organization, from conception all the way to the actual picnic.

Getting the various organizations to participate, acquiring the business sponsors to fund the event, getting food donations, to prospecting free performers and the scheduling of the whole event are enough to drive one person batty.

And luckily, I don’t do it alone. I have my family and a group of people to help me as well as my co-chair to make this event happen.

On the day of the event, my family wakes up at around 5:30, load the van, and drive to the park before everyone else get there. This year, we had a scare when an early downpour threatened to cancel the event before it begins.  But I think god heard all our prayers and gave us the sun after the downpour.

It is a picnic attended by thousands of families, social and civic associations, business enterprises, and individuals every year.

This year, we released 110 white doves to commemorate our 110th of Philippine independence.

Here are some pics:

Philippine Independence Day

Filipinos and non-Filipinos alike came to enjoy this fun filled day. Picnic attendees – young and old enjoyed the volleyball tournament, watermelon-eating contest, face painting for the kids and of course the non-stop all day entertainment provided by local artists.

Here’s my big family 🙂

Philippine Independence Day picnic

Community and family get together

Yours truly thanking everyone for coming 🙂 See you all next year!!!

Imie Belanger combines business and community service