LUSO NEWCASTLE VISIT

As I get ready to move into another weekend of travel and my #LusoLife I have to remember my last visit in Newcastle. (I'm slacking here). I took my dads advice and headed up to Roseville on Saturday evening, spent some time at #ThunderValleyCasino, came back to the hotel with a whopping .77 cents (lets not talk about what I lost lol) and then vegged out until Sunday morning. 

I have to say that as I drive around California I have come to love these small towns and these historic buildings!!! We had the Newcastle Visit at the Newcastle Portuguese Hall that was built in 1918. What a treasure this building is!!

Its always a pleasure to arrive at visits and see familiar faces. Past Presidents, line officers and simply members that have known you since you were a kid. I grew up with some of the adult members of this council and have watched some of them grow up in other councils. Thank you Newcastle for the lovely afternoon filled with friendships and laughter, the delicious cake, dinner and flowers. BTW I love love the scentsy crown that we were given. Love it!!

To the Newcastle Youth Council... Keep it up, work hard and continue to do what you do best. Silvia Soares i don't know how you treck up there during the summer months for Luso practice but keep up the good work and holding on to our traditions!!! Can't wait to see what you guys bring to the table this year at the convention!!!!!

Thank you to Frankie Trovao and his family, Ethan Vieira and his parents and everyone else who spent the afternoon with us. These memories will be forever held dear to my heart!

See you all at the next visit..

#LusoPrez2015 #LusoFamily#LusoAmericanFraternalFederation #LusoLife

LUSO SALINAS VISIT

A little behind this week... This last weekend I had the opportunity to go to the Salina's Visit at Markham Ranch. What a beautiful location. I mean seriously gorgeous. It was a beautiful day and a great drive. I was fortunate that my dad was able to join me this last weekend. He makes a great co pilot especially if I start to fiddle with my phone, he makes sure to stop that immediately! lol.

Thank you Salinas; Mr. and Mrs. Gurgulho, Mr and Mrs. Leal, Mr.and Mrs Avila and those that attended. It was a small luncheon but it was still special to me. Thank you Ethan Vieira, Joseph B. Vieira and Lina Pereira Vieira for being there as well. I don't think I've been to a visit yet that I didn't have either my youth president or the 20-30's president with. So proud of both of them.

Thank you Salinas for the lovely luncheon and gift. Your continued hard work and loyalty to Luso is truly inspiring.

During our talks during dinner we made a few connections. My first convention with Luso in 1982 was at Batista Vieira's convention... Ethans first convention at the age of 2 months was my dad's convention in 1998... and now we are Presidents together. It was in the stars Ethan Vieira... we've come full circle!!!

Thank you again to all that were in attendance on Sunday...

SACRAMENTO LUSO WEEKEND

Another great Luso weekend with my #LusoFamily. I started my weekend supporting Judy Mottini on her journey to Luso President in 2017 by finally being able to attend her Crab Feed in Sacramento. So glad i finally made it up there. What a great turn out and delicious crab!!! She most definitely deserves to have such a successful fundraiser as her year approaches. I'm looking forward to her convention at the Sacramento Hyatt in 2017, I know Judy and her committee are going to be spectacular!!!

After a nice evening at the crab feed and a good nights sleep at the Sutter House in Downtown Sac... I headed over to St. Elizabeths Church for Council 3c-33b, Region 7 and YC #4's annual visit. I was welcomed with open arms by my Luso Family. Thank you to everyone who worked so tirelessly all weekend to make sure that the visit was memorable and fun. Thank you for the lovely corsage, beautiful gift and delicious lunch but most importantly, thank you for making me feel so loved and cherished!!!

My standout moment was when i was greeted by Avo Perry as I have called her for the last 19 years... We met when I was 20-30's President in 98 and she traveled with her granddaugther the Youth President Jennifer Sanders (then Machado)... and she adopted me and I her as my Avo... I was thrilled to see her and so happy that she had come to see me!!! I adore her. I've said this before but sometimes people just touch your heart and they become the most special people in your journey in life. Thank you Avo Perry for joining us this weekend and Thank you Jennifer and Gracie M Pimentel for sharing your Avo with me!! :)

Thank you to my co presidents 20-30s PresidentFrankie Trovao and his family Marie Trovao, Maggie and Hailey and Youth President Ethan Vieira and his father and LALIS Director Joseph B. Vieira for making another one of our visits memorable and fun!

I truly love my Luso Life!!!!

Thank you again Sacramento for the lovely memories!!! See you all at the Convention!!!!!

 — 

LUSO VISIT WATSONVILLE COUNCIL 75B

This last weekend I started of 2016 with my first visit in Watsonville. Council 75B hosted a great luncheon for myself, youth president Ethan Vieiraand 20-30s president Frankie Trovao, officers and members. I was joined by my parents and my Tia Isabel. Mr. Joao Machado and his council put on as usual a great dish and welcomed us all with warm hugs and laughs. There is never a quiet moment with Frankie, Ethan and Myself, add in Danny and it gets a little out of control. Great memories though...

It was an emotional visit as Mr. Machado, his deceased wife and I formed a friendship/connection that has withstood approximately 20 years. Every so often people touch your heart and you know you will cherish them always. For me that was the Machados. The will forever be a huge part of my#LusoFamily.

Thank you to the officers and members that came to the visit and to 75b for putting on a delicious luncheon of 2 differents types of Tuna, fish soup and cake!! Thank you for the wonderful memories.

#LusoLife #lusoprez2015 #LusoAmerican#LusoPres

LUSO NEWARK COUNCIL VISIT!!!

So as monday begins I can't forget to mention the amazing night I had on Friday for the Luso Newarkvisit.. I was joined by my Mae Maria Amaral and my Tia Isabel, Assistant President... along with my Tio Luis and Tia Lucia (who is also my assistant president).. my Tios Madeline Lino Amaral and TiTia Lydia Costa. I'm not sure if that made me more nervous or if it was because I was surrounded by the our sister council Newark. I saw many familiar faces and some new faces.

Ethan Vieira, Frankie Trovao, Marie Trovao our travels are just getting better and better.... Now if Hailey wouldn't scream when I hold her! :)

Thank you to council 19B, Youth Council #30 and Region #16 of Newark for the delicious dinner, bifinhos, fries, rice and salad.. YUM.. the great pumpkin pies, flowers and the beautiful gift of a jewelery box. I could sure use this!:)

Stay strong, stay united and continue doing what you do best..To YC #30, I wish you could have performed but congratulations on a a great performance at this last years convention.. I look forward to seeing more from you this next year!

Thank you for the memories, the laughs and the friendships. #LusoFamily #lusolife #LusoPrez2015

Luso Visits and functions April through July 2011

It’s been a crazy time ending my first year in my journey to Luso President in 2015. I have gotten so overwhelmed that I have lost track of my blogging and haven’t finished the last 5 visits I attended along with my last fundraiser and of course convention. So while my summary may be short it doesn’t mean that each visit wasn’t special.

April 15th, 2011, TAX DAY was our own official visit for Council #3L, YC #1 and Region #2. What can I say about this group of people, is that I am so very proud of all that they do. We are small, but strong and determined to honor our Presidents and members in the best possible way. We started off the visit with a little Beatles music in the back ground to honor President John Perdigao as we know how much he loves the Beatles and I KNOW how that is being that everyone knows how much I have traveled around to see Duran Duran! We also decided that just handing them their gifts this year with a little speech wasn’t good enough. So with the help of our 20-30’s Region President Brienne Peixoto we sent them on a small scavenger hunt to find their gifts which ended up under their chairs. It was a moment of laughter and it was great watching them wander around the room trying to figure out the hints. YC# 1 also performed this year. They performed their 2nd place performance from 2010 from the region of Madeira and once again did it just as they did at the performance at convention with the one exception of having an additional dancer, our very own Youth President Matthew Teixeira. It was great to watch him dance with the youth and become an honorary member if even for one day! I was very happy that day to. I had set a goal of 20 new members for myself when I became a Luso Sales Agent again and was thrilled that I hit my goal and some. We brought in bunch of new members and I couldn’t be happier. Now it’s time to work on the New Year! Once again I’m extremely proud of the Fremont/Union City councils. You have all been the back bone of our area and I’m so happy to be a part of it and love that it’s what has kept me so active in Luso.

My next visit was in Tracy (and unfortunately I do not have the date of that visit.:( ). As usual my partner in crime Brienne came along with me and my parents as we headed our way to the valley to spend an evening with old friends. It was wonderful to see such old Luso friends. We had a nice turn out there with many coming from the bay area to join Frank Silva and his council. It was small but intimate and nice to see that everyone is still working hard to hold on to fraternalism. They are small but strong and I can’t wait to see what else comes out of Tracy.

With a short break, we moved into May and headed out to the valley again for the Gustine Visit on May 14th. I shared the road trip with Brienne and Anthony and we headed out. One thing missing from this trip, STARBUCKS IN GUSTINE!!! WTH!!!! Between texting Monica Xavier looking for coffee, ending up at McD’s and all the laughter the night started off great! We spent the evening with Monica, Paul Teixeira, Anna Bettencourt and everyone else that was supposed to be there! I think it was the first visit all year that I think we actually got into trouble for too much talking and laughing. Go figure!!! It was blast thought. I laughed so much I think I hurt myself. I will say that the food was delicious, and omg the bread was to die for. Sra Pires makes the best bread!!! I might have taken some home if we hadn’t all eaten it during and after dinner! It had been a long time since I had been to the Gustine Visit but I’m glad I came out this time. They are strong and determined and they should be proud of themselves. I see many things happening here and can’t wait to see where it leads them!

The drive home is usually uneventful, but wow this one was pretty eventful, Who Knew!!!

The next day we headed to Mt. View/Santa Clara where they did their visit at park. While normally it’s all good but omg it was raining and chilly. I loved the fact that they didn’t change locations, people made do, put on jackets and had a great time either way. I got there and everyone was already eating the tri tip. The rain came and went but it never took the fun times and the memories of that afternoon. We hung out with Judy Teixeira, Judy Allen, Monica Xavier and Anna Bettencourt. I must say that this last year has been surrounded by these ladies and they have made this last year very memorable and filled with many many laughs. I’m not sure how it happened but at some point there was balloon sword fighting at our table along with candy eating and what not. Great visit by such a strong council. With many Luso Youth Presidents, 20-30’s Presidents and Adult presidents under the belt, they have the knowhow and the pride that we all love to see at our visits.

With no visits until the testimonials for John, Anthony and Matthew, I squeezed in one more fundraiser before the 2011 Convention in San Diego. I was fortunate that Region #2 of the Bay Area allowed us the opportunity to work with them on their successful Comedy Night with Out of the Gutter Comedy from Fall River. With a Steak and Oyster dinner and Portuguese Comedy we had a great dinner and show. The guys from Fall River are funny, take you back to being a Portuguese Kid growing up with parents that just came here from the Azores and just make you laugh until you can’t laugh anymore. My committee of course worked tirelessly in the kitchen, barbecuing the steaks, the oysters, serving and clean up. I could not have done this without their help or their dedication to the committee and my journey to president. It’s because of them that I can continue to do this and I am so appreciative of all they do. A big thank you to the SDES for allowing us the use of the hall, To the Guys of Out of the Gutter Comedy for coming back out to the West Coast and giving us laughs and continuing the friendships we built last year. I look forward to working with you again the near future. To everyone that sponsored, attended and helped, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all that you have done for us.

In between all this I managed to talk my parents into letting myself, Brienne and a new friend Frank Dias and his daughter borrow our motor home to head out to Casa da Fruta for the annual Luso Picnic. I’m not sure how I managed to talk my parents into letting us take the motor home but with careful driving (thanks Frank) and with all of us being diligent in taking care of the MH we made it to Casa de Fruta without incident. It was a lot of fun participating this year in the picnic. It had been several years since I had been there and I was glad to know that the mosquitoes were fairly gone and I wasn’t going to be eaten alive by the mosquito population of CDF. With music, games, and hanging with my Luso family we had a wonderful weekend filled with laughs, memories and some really good food. I had a blast this year and I hope that I can come again the in future, although I’m thinking the parentals will be taking their motor home next time! Thank you Frank, Sara and Brienne for making this weekend so memorable.

Testimonial visits!!!! It’s come to an end for our Presidents and it’s been quite an honor to go on this journey with them this year. July 9th San Pablo #5C, Region #10 and YC 16 took us to Hawaii for their annual Luau. The dinner as usual was fabulously delicious and began with (Little) Lino’s annual ALLLOOHHHHAAA greeting as we began the visit. I traveled with my best friend this year as he went through this journey as 20-30s President and I’m so proud of the way he represented the 20-30s as well as the society in general. We laughed, we drove, we laughed some more, we even disagreed on many Luso things but one thing for sure is that this year would not have been the same had it not been for him being president and my getting the chance to share it with him. Thank you Anthony for taking me along on your many road trips and letting me be a part of your memories. I’m proud of you and I can’t wait to see where you go from here in Luso. You are a true treasurer for this organization and I hope you never lose sight of that! To John Perdigao and his wife Eduardina and daughter Stephanie, it was an honor to get to spend time with you this year and to get to know you. While I have grown up around John, we didn’t really know each other and I’m glad I had the opportunity to spend time and be a part of the same journey he was on. It was great to be on your board. Great job this year and I hope you have amazing memories of this year!

Sunday, July 10th was Matthews’s testimonial in Sacramento. Can I tell you this has got to be one of the strongest areas as far as Youth that I know. They are strong, passionate and truly seem to love the society and all it offers. I think once again we managed to get into trouble for making too much noise but this time I’m going to blame Danny Sequiera! :p Kidding. We had a blast not just with the adults at our table but with the Youth who sat behind us. What an amazing group of kids we have growing up in this organization who want to move up the lines and do what we have done through the years. I’m excited to see how they all become our next youth presidents, 20-30s presidents, adult presidents and I see a LALIS President in that mix at some point too. Thank you Sacramento for a delicious meal and a wonderful afternoon to honor Matthew. Matthew is the 2nd Youth President from his family in the last 4 or 5 years and he did an amazing job representing our youth this year. I’m proud to have gotten to know him and his parents. We have shared some amazing laughs, memories and have become fast friends in the last year and I know beyond a doubt that your journey in Luso Matthew is now over yet. You have so much more to do for this society and I can’t wait to see all that you accomplish. Good luck in College and don’t forget about us Luso People! :p

It’s been a very busy year as I got through my year as Outside Guard and now convention has come and gone and I’m starting my new adventure…but before I get there…I’ll be blogging about the 2011 Convention in San Diego. Can’t believe how behind I really am! Once again thank you to everyone who made 2010-2011 so memorable!!!

Jantar de Mentiras, April 1st, 2011

Jantar De Mentiras…was in fact my 2nd fundraiser already in this journey to the 2015 Convention for the East Bay. I had started my fundraising back in October of 2010 with a small raffle and now this one on April 1st was to be my first big festa. We had decided to do something different, something that wasn’t happening in the many Portuguese halls through the bay area. So since we picked April Fool’s day for our dinner, we also decided to call it Jantar De Mentiras, translated to Dinner of Liars. It always became a topic of conversation as we sold tickets and made people wonder what dinner was really going to be.

We chose a very different dinner for this festa. We wanted something new, something different and something that would make people interested to come back for the future. So we did Polvo Grelhado, Frango and Bacalahau. Now trust me we were nervous, this was something very new to us (the Polvo and bacalhau anyways) and we were slightly apprehensive but things couldn’t have gone better. Not only did we have an amazing dinner to serve everyone but I had an amazing committee that helped to sell tickets, advertise and worked extremely hard to put on an amazing festa.
We were fortunate to have had the support of the SDES Alvarado, for years they have supported our local councils and my father’s committee for his presidency in 1998 and they didn’t fail me either. They were there helping, allowed us to have access to the hall and made things so much easier for us in the end. I love this place, it’s a place where I grew up and celebrated many happy occasions with my family and I’m thrilled that I’m able to continue working with SDES through my journey and with my LUSO council. We are extremely appreciative all that you do for us.

Thank you to Progresso for coming out from the Valley and playing such wonderful music for all of us to dance and enjoy the night. We are very grateful that you came out for us and played even when the dance floor was light. Everyone had an amazing time and we look forward to working with you again in the future!

I was fortunate to have Youth Council #1 of Fremont /Union City perform for us as well that night. They did their dance performance from the 2010 Theatrical Program, which earned them 2nd place in the Dance Category. They came out just as strong that night as they did at the Convention dancing their Madeira Dances in full original Folklore costumes. I am so proud of what this council has done over the last 20 years. You all are such a wonderful and talented group of kids who have no fear of trying something new and different. You don’t follow what is expected at the conventions and do what you feel is right. I love the fact that you are all so happy to do folklore and to learn where we come from and the culture. You all make me so proud to be a part of the Fremont/Union City area. A big shout out to Carla Moreira the Youth Director and her team that helps her put on shows year to year. You should all be so proud of what you do for YC #1 and what you instill in these children. The love they have for performing is there as well as the love they have for their Portuguese culture. Kudos to all you do!

Thank you to all that attended the dinner and supported our committee by buying raffle tickets, auction but we also had some fabulous people who donated so much for our auction and raffle. Thank you all so much for all you did to help make this a successful festa.

It is extremely overwhelming and emotional when I think of all the time people took out of their day or days to help make this dinner a success. There are never enough thank yous to go around and I don’t know how I will repay everyone for all their hard work and dedication that they have given me for the next 4 years. I only hope I can be the type of president they can be proud of.
Now on to our next fundraiser: Friday June 10th @the SDES Alvarado we will be working alongside Region #2 of the Bay Area for the 2nd Annual Out of the Gutter Comedy Night. Dinner: Steak and Oyster $30 and show. This troop is hilarious and will remind you of growing up a Portuguese Kid. If you are interested in tickets please contact me. These tickets run fast and you won’t regret it. Fabulous show and dinner!!!!

Thank you all again for all you have done so far in my journey to the becoming the 2015 Luso President!

Luso Visits and Activities Feb/March

It’s been busy busy busy over the last few weeks and once again I’ve fallen behind on the blogging of my Luso travels. I ended my last blog with sadness and loss that some in our Luso Family had endured. It taught us that life is short and we should cherish every moment we have with our family and friends and I can probably honestly say that is what I’ve been doing over the last 8 weeks or so.

Saturday, February 19th, Santa Clara Council chicken and shrimp dinner. I headed out to Santa Clara with the usual partner in crime, 20-30’s President Anthony Pio and met up with 20-30’s Director of Activities, Monica Xavier, Isabel Matos, Mr. and Mrs. Pascoa, Frank Dias and his daughter Sara and his cousin and friends. Dinner was delicious with Carrot soup, chicken, shrimp and veggies. The dance followed with Manuel Jacinto, Frank Rosa’s little silver case, tequila, dancing, laughter and a really good time. I spent the evening with old and new friends of Luso and I’m really glad to have been able to attend this function. The Youth Council performed their performance from 2010 and everyone just seemed to be enjoying the evening. Thank you to Anthony for being the designated driver that night and for just hanging out with me.

Friday, March 11th, was the Newark council Chicharros (spelling may be off). Even with the bad weather people came out for a great Portuguese fish dinner and dance. I headed out with my parents, meeting up with my cousin Michelle, her son Logan, her father Henry and Frank met us there. Like always there were tons of Luso family members ready for good food and festa! The chicharros were delicious, the music was fabulous and we all had a great time once again. Once again the man with the silver case was there and we enjoyed a little pomegranate.

The fun didn’t stop there that weekend, Sunday, March 13th we headed out to Oakland visit in Hayward. It was far and long drive for us but we made it through. Haha! Always great to see Manuel Rosario, Bernice Pelicas and everyone else that has held this council together always. They had an amazing turn out that was followed by delicious Alactra (I think that’s how it’s spelled) and delicious cake. Mr. Rosario did an awesome job as MC and if I’m correct in saying this, he received a 50 yr pin. Despite the gloomy weather we had a great time with our Luso family!

Saturday, March 19th, YC#1 put on a bus trip to Black Oak Casino to help their queen contestant Monica Amaral in her fundraising. On a very wet and dreary Saturday afternoon, 2 buses headed out to Black Oak, filled with Laughs, too much food and alcohol. From the moment we left SDES Alvarado we laughed, we ate and we made more memories. Little did I know we would even see snow upon arrival, after a slight detour (lost bus driver) through some random town.lol I started the evening off with some gambling and gave up when all it did was take my money. A few of us decided that we no longer wanted to gamble, ate dinner and headed down for some Cosmic Bowling. 3 teams against each other and I have no idea why I thought I could bowl. Lol I was in fact the weakest player but in the end we all had a great time. The ride home was just as entertaining as the ride there even with the pouring rain. I don’t think I’ve ever been caught in such a crazy rain storm. We were soaked through our coats by the time we got home. But it was a great night.

Luso seems to fill our weekends these days and we ended the weekend at the Newark Councils Visit where we had bife a portuguesa. We got a bit of a reprieve with the rain so people were ready to come out and celebrate our presidents that day as well as enjoy a very delicious lunch. We sat with the youth officers and actually had a great time with them. It’s always great to see a youth council, region and adult council continue to grow and become successful. Every year they put on a theatrical performance and they just recently had their first 20-30’s president. It’s always wonderful to see a strong area and I look forward to seeing them continue to grow.

March 27th, myself, my dad, mom and Brienne headed on our furthest trek of 2011, off to Newcastle we went. It was my first time attending this visit and I was really excited to. Not only do they have an amazing youth group but they were also going to install a new 20-30’s Region! I am so proud of Anthony as this will be his 2nd activation of a region this year. I love this youth group, they are so energetic, so talented and always put on such an amazing show. I wasn’t lying when I told them they were our own Luso Broadway group! It’s also amazing to see so many of those parents that are now teaching their kids in Newcastle, some danced when I danced, some were in the youth when I helped them, now they are keeping their youth group active and teaching their kids that it’s all about the fun, the experience and learning about your culture. They always have the most wonderful message and I hope that other groups will look up to them because of it. I know I do!

I’m going to stop this part of the trek here…still a few more to go…but it’s been a very hectic few months. 2010 and the beginning of 2011 remind why I’m still active in Luso and why I’ve chosen the path I have. I simply adore my Luso Family even if we don’t always agree!
Next up to blog, Jantar De Mentiras, Luso #3L Visit and I’m sure I’ll find more to talk about! 
Till then!

Watsonville, Committtee, LALW, Martinez Activities

What a busy couple of months in my world and I haven’t had a chance to really sit down and blog about life, LUSO or anything at this point. The year started out with a major stomach bug that flew around our family for a few weeks and finally settled out. Our family business moved our entire operations to our Alameda location and underwent some changes; we celebrated my niece’s baptism and began our LUSO activities again. So yes a very busy first few weeks of the year.

January 16th, my first visit of the year was Watsonville. What a gorgeous day it was to go up into the mountains and near Santa Cruz. You would have thought it was a beautiful summer day. As usual my partner in crime Brienne (as I call her my secretary. The girl has a better grasp of when all the visits are then I do) and my parents joined us this time and we headed out to Watsonville to meet up with all of our LUSO Family. I am sad to say that I have not been there since my presidency in 98-99 but they have been forever etched in my mind and heart. I was excited to see Mr. & Mrs. Machado and to taste their delicious tuna that they serve. We arrived around the same time as our 20-30’s president Anthony, our Queen Nicole and her mother Anna, my cousin Monica who is running for Luso Queen from YC #1 and her mom Linda and Sister Lindsey. Seeing familiar faces or family is always great but it was nice to know that once you walked in the door that no matter how long it’s been since you’ve seen someone they open their arms and hearts to you and make you feel completely welcome. That is exactly how they make you feel in Watsonville. We had a good time, great food and some great laughs.

January 23rd was the Hilmar/Turlock and I’m sad to say that I was unable to attend this one due to my Convention Committee having their first official meeting. I had an amazing turn out and I’m so glad to have them all behind me. I can’t wait for our convention in 2015…and to work with all of them over the next few years. I think I have one of the best team of people ever! We have our first couple of fundraisers coming up in April and June along with our raffle and I’m extremely nervous but I know that without a doubt they will be great!

January 29th, was our first Luso Fraternal meeting day in Dublin. We spent the day in meetings, lunch and then got ready to head out to Beach Blanket Babylon in San Francisco. I’m so glad that the 20-30’s Administration put this social activity together for all of us. What an amazing night filled with laughter, good friends, old and new, Frank Rosa’s Pomegranate Aguardente (don’t know how to spell this..lol). With the Bus Ride (Thank you Rosie’s Tours) and the fabulous show, I commend the 20-30’s Board for doing an amazing job! I look forward to your next social! After the show we all headed to Pier 39 for dinner, drinks or just walking around and enjoying our SF Wharf. Many stayed on the pier but me, Anthony, Frank and Julianna headed to the wharf and had some of the best tasting chowder and shrimp. YUM! I was absolutely stuffed although it didn’t stop us from going into the chocolate store and getting chocolate. Hello Mr. Chocolate covered honeycomb!!! My weakness. Even in the rain and cold weather we all managed to have a great time. We ended our evening at the holiday inn in Dublin and still managed to have the front desk come up to the lobby of the 2nd floor and tell us “please quiet down”.

February 13th, the Martinez Visit. I had not been to the Martinez Visit “the cow palace” in years but looked forward to heading out there and seeing some old friends. We had some delicious tri tip, omg it was so good. We laughed as usual with Jose Da Rosa and enjoyed a nice beautiful afternoon.

While we had a good time there was a black cloud over our Luso Family that day. We lost a member of our society. Our youth director for San Joaquim Michelle sadly lost her husband in a tragic accident the night before and it our hearts were broken for her.

Our sadness did not end there. On Tuesday, February 15th we lost another dear member of the society, she was a past youth director and director of the fraternal board. Margie lost her battle with cancer that week and it was another huge loss for our family.

We also had two of our past presidents Liz Alves and Jr. Correia who lost a grandparent as well.
It was with great sadness that we went through the week with such tremendous losses. My thoughts and prayers to the Morris/Rocha, Correia, Meirinho/Alves and Silveira Families.
While it was a great start to my Luso Journey this year, it was also met with some great sadness.

So I end my blog with this: Remember to take each day as it comes, remember to say I love you to those you care about, remember to forgive those you felt hurt you and remember to smile and enjoy your life. Life is far too short and you never know what tomorrow will bring you.

Till my next blog

Adult 3L, Region #2 and YC. #1 Christmas Party.

We had our annual Christmas party on December 12th and like always we had a blast. We all know that it’s the youth that make this party fun, filled with laughter and nostalgia. It’s all about them and Santa and I’m so glad that over the years we’ve all begun to do our Christmas together as a whole versus separately as we had done in years past.

We had our annual Christmas party at the SDES Alvarado, our home away from home. In all the years I’ve been a part of this area SDES has really stood back and supported our youth and adults. They allow us the ability to have a place to rehearse, have parties and are always ready to have the kids dance. 20 plus years and presidents later they continue to help us and while I’m not the youth director or even a youth leader at this time for YC #1 I know I am grateful for all they do for Adult #3L, Region #2 and especial YC #1.

We started our Christmas party with the YC and adults creating cards and putting together donations. Our Youth has always created Christmas cards for Children’s Hospital but this year it was decided that the cards would be sent to the H&S company unit 73679 stationed in Afghanistan. In conjunction with Region #2’s activity of putting together a gift box to send over with small necessities and just things that the soldiers would want to make their day just a little bit brighter, easier. At the end of the day Region #2 shipped off 8 boxes of goodies to H&S Company filled socks, soups, coffee, books, movies, candy, gum, etc. If we could bring a smile to their faces and bring a piece of home for just one minute then it’s what we did. I’m so proud of the turn out the Region had and so proud of Brienne for putting it together and getting it out and shipped. Her friend who is in this battalion is as well as the rest of our soldiers are in my prayers and hope they come soon. The Youth Council also had a toy drive for Viola Blythe and collected a mired of toys and wrapping paper to give to the children who don’t have as much as they do. All in all I felt as though it has been year of paying it forward. I’m proud of each and every one of you for doing all you could to bring a smile, a piece of home and for just thinking about those that do not have all that we may have.

Of course you can’t have a Christmas party without food and there was a ton of food and deserts brought by all of us in the groups. From potato soup to pizza to taco salad to red velvet cup cakes, cookies and so on. We ate well and enjoyed a nice afternoon with friends and family.

While waiting for Santa to make his appearance the Region kept the kids entertained by playing a couple of games. There is nothing funnier than watching 42 kids running up and down the hall and trying to sit on a balloon (some with helium this year) to pop it!!! Classic fun! They also made a Santa’s beard on a fellow team member where they put shaving cream on one persons face in the shape of a beard and throw cotton balls at it. Pretty funny even if some of the bigger boys didn’t really want to get their faces dirty. :p

It wasn’t soon after that the bells began to ring and in came Santa. He must have been on herbalife like many of us because he seemed a tad thin this year. Must remember to send him a package or 12 of cookies. LOL 42 kids, 42 presents later, all kids have had their moment with Santa and some even held on for dear life to their parents for fear of the man in the long white beard. (I mean honestly who could blame them..he is a bit scary when you think about it. An adult man, asking kids to sit on his lap and hands them candy…lol)

Another Christmas party gone by, more fond memories, a lot of laughs and this means the closer we are to the kids beginning their programs for the 2011 convention.
Time flies when you’re having fun!!!

Thank you Adult #3L, Region #2 and Youth Council #1 for being such a wonderful area. I’m proud to be a part of you and look forward to many more years of our family and traditions

Merry Christmas to my Luso Family!!!

Luso Weekend (Newark and San Jose)

Luso Weekend! (running a bit behind on this one! :-)

This weekend was truly what I would call a Luso filled weekend with quite a few Luso functions. My weekend started out at the Wine Tasting Event for the Councils of Newark, Adult 19B, Region #16 and YC #30. Once again I was escorted by my Mom and we met up with my cousin Michelle Da Silva, past 20-30’s President and currently Chair of Youth Directors, her son Logan and her father Henry. The hall was decorated in fall colors and people were already sampling the delicious wines and food. I am always impressed by this group because their Youth is always knee deep in helping, serving and getting things together for their functions. I also saw many others from different councils such as our President John Perdigao and his family, Marielia and Americo Pereira, Joe and Lenor Pio, MaryJo and Arnold Rodrigues, Mr. and Mrs. Rosa and so many more I could list. To see such support during these tough economic times is great. The food was great, YC #30 performed their 2010 program and the danced followed with Chico Avila. It was a great night had by all. Thank you Newark for putting on such a great fundraiser.

Saturday, the 6th was not only my little sister Carla’s birthday but it was also the Luso Sales Agent meeting. We spent the day working on ways to make our society stronger and really show people that we have products that can benefit not only adults but our children as well. We are currently offering 6% on Single Premium Annuities (min 10,000 deposit) for the first year and we also have a great Educational Savings Account that is great for your children and grand children. Current interest rate is 4% and can be used not only for College but for Private Schools until the child is 30!!! So act now and start saving for your child’s future.

Sunday, the 7th we headed out to our last visit of 2010, San Jose 47-B, Region #1 and YC #2 of San Jose. It wasn’t the prettiest day of the year, but the turn out at the visit was fabulous. Everyone battled the rain and gloom to surround themselves with their Luso Friends. I headed down alone this time and met up with Brienne and her boyfriend Randy and we found a quiet spot for us to sit back and enjoy the afternoon. We were later joined by Anna Bettencourt, Judy Allen Dias, Judy Teixeira, Americo and Marielia Pereira, Jason, Cynthia and Madison Weekly and of course Lenor Pio (Anthony’s mom). Of course also there was President John Perdigao and family, 20-30s President Anthony Pio, Youth President Matthew Teixeira and Queen Nicole Bettencourt.

I continue to be amazed at the amount of friendships that are created by the Luso visits. You truly don’t realize how many people you have met, how long you have known them and how much of a good time you have until you see each other again. Many of us only see each other at Convention, visits or some random festa that we just happened to be at. But as I continue my journey in Luso (god help me 28 years and counting) I realize that I have been doing this same thing, year after year, visit after visit and seeing some truly amazing people. We grow up, we watch each other get married, have children, watch their children grow up and follow in the footsteps of our parents, grandparents and so on. How amazing is it to look up at a head table where the 20-30’s President‘s Father was a 20-30’s President in the 90s, the Youth Presidents older Brother was just Youth President a few years ago, our MC’s were non other then Joseph Vieira and his youngest son Ethan and Josephs older son was sitting at the head table as a youth officer. To me this is what Luso is about; it’s about traditions, our culture and continuing what our fore fathers have done before us. I commend 47B for making sure their Youth and 20-30’s were very much a part of their special day.

To Region #1 of San Jose, Congratulations on reactivating! I look forward to seeing you all again throughout the year and can’t wait to see you accept your first Rim Award and maybe getting someone in the 20-30’s State Line. I think you all have an amazing opportunity to build your region and really continue to build the bridge between the Adults and the Youth. I see a lot of potential here and I can’t wait to see you all flourish! If there is ever anything you need please don’t hesitate to contact me. I love watching new councils be reborn and created.

Thank you Adult 47B, Region #1 and YC #2 for a wonderful afternoon, delicious food and wonderful memories. I enjoyed spending the afternoon with old friends and making new friends. I look forward to continuing to build all the friendships and to see you all throughout the year.

Next road trip…Visalia for the Luso Christmas Party…See you all there!

Santa Maria/Arroyo Grande Visits

Luso Adventures…

So this weekend was the first official weekend of the Luso visits for 2010-2011 and I’m so glad I decided to tag along with Anthony. Traveling with Anthony, Anna and Nicole proved to be nothing but laughs, teasing and some story’s that may never come to the light of day! What happens in Pismo stays in Pismo. HAHA! Good Times.

We stayed in Pismo or Five Cities at the Motel 6. What cracked me up is that we were worried about WIFI.. Really here we are in a quaint town by the beach and we are worried about having WIFI in our rooms. After changing rooms and settling in, we headed out to dinner at Pier side Restaurant with the Perdigao Family. Good fish, laughs and the building of friendships. That’s what this trip has turned into.

Once back at the hotel I thought we were going to get busted by security with the laughter, the sounds and the silliness that we created. I had no idea that this craziness would have ensued but oh we did it..and god help the neighbors we had at the hotel. They must have heard some interesting stuff because when I think back on everything I can’t help but laugh my ass off.

Saturday morning started off quietly, well somewhat quiet but then I’ve learned that our group was not quiet. We had a quick breakfast at the Denny’s up the street and then I was off to hang out with my oldest and dearest friend Mark! I couldn’t wait. I think I actually jumped out my chair and out the door before anyone really had a chance to know what was going on. LOL Sorry guys I love you but can’t miss out on time with Mark. Heck it had been 8 years since I had seen him and I was having Mark Martins withdrawals. I spent the afternoon reminiscing, catching up and having a fabulous time at the Marisol bar at The Cliffs. It was a gorgeous day in Pismo and we sat outside and had the most amazing view of the ocean. Mike and Amy joined us a little bit later and the rest of the afternoon was spent with laughter, catching up and just a great time. I miss these guys so much. They have been a part of my life for 28 years and if we go another 8 years of not seeing each other I may have to hunt them down. After too much sun and too many Morgans we said good bye to Mike and Amy and then headed back to the hotel and I said my good byes to Mark. Always hard to say good bye to Mark. I better not go another 8 years without seeing him or anyone.



Once I was dropped off, we got ready to hit the Santa Maria Visit. As always we had a great dinner, great hosts and a fabulous time. Dancing, food, drinking and laughs. And you know you can’t go to Santa Maria without a good Santa Maria Chamarrita, Macarena and we learned the dance to Cotton Eyed Joe! Good times. Thank you to the Ribeiro Family, Council 31B, Region #4 and YC #3 for making this night another night to remember. After the visit we headed back to the hotel to relax and continue our craziness. I swear I have seen, heard some things that can never be repeated or shouldn’t be repeated.





The next morning we took our time getting ready for our next visit to Arroyo Grande. Our first Luso/Sprsi combined Visit. Let me just say that while it was small, it was really fun and very very good. Everyone was so sweet and hospitable and the food was delicious along with the cake. YUM. WE had some serious tears and snorting from all the laughter and I can see that this next year is going to be quite a ride. Thank you to Esther Iglesias and Elsie Chechetti (sorry spelling is wrong) for putting on the an amazing visit.


We headed home soon after and I was quite sad to leave the central coast. I love being down there so much that whenever I have leave it, it’s almost like leaving home. I have some of the most amazing friends down there and no matter how long it’s been since we’ve talked, since we’ve seen each other, the minute we are together it’s like we have never been apart. I can honestly say that I miss them terribly when I am not there and hope that we make more of an effort to stay in touch and see each other.

To Anthony, Anna, Nicole, Judy and Matthew and The Perdigao family…I had a blast. I haven’t laughed that much in a long time and you all made this trip so much more worth it. I am really looking forward to traveling with you all as much as I can this year as you continue your Luso Adventures. I know we have a lot more laughs, a lot more paidocas to give and more crazy pictures to take!

Thank you again for the memories, the laughs and for the friendships. You’re all so special and I’m so blessed to have you all in my life.