AMERICAN
GI FORUM - SAN JOSE CHAPTER
322
South First Street, San Jose CA 95113
(408) 288-9470 (408) 288-9473
fax www.sigif.org
"Education
is our Freedom, and Freedom should be Everybody's Business"

THE LEADER
San Jose GI Forum Newsletter,
January, 2010
HAPPY
NEW YEAR! As we close
the year and begin 2010, we thank all the membership for their
support throughout the year, sharing your time, ideas, and donations
and most importantly - your support. There is no doubt that this has
been a challenging year for the Forum, but we made it! To recap
2009:
Cinco de Mayo & Fiestas Patrias
Parades and Festivals: AGIF once again presented the
Cinco de Mayo and the Fiestas Patrias parades and festivals in
downtown San Jose as we have for the past 27 years. The Forum is a
leader in showcasing our heritage, cultural pride, and our
patriotism in Santa Clara County.
Vida Nueva
3r1h Anniversary: In
March, we celebrated Vida Nueva's 30 Years of Service. This
anniversary
celebrated the sober living
facility that has served men throughout the Santa Clara County
transition back into a healthy lifestyle. This event also
inaugurated our own Vida Nueva Leadership Scholarships.
Congratulations to Nicholas Jarmillo and Richard Ortiz, who will
continue their education in the fields of Sociology and Drug
Rehabilitation.
Veterans Day Parade: Thanks
to the membership for their continued support of our Veterans by
participation in the Annual Veterans Day Parade. The presence of our
membership, friends and family members gives strength to our
returning Vets.
50th
Anniversary BandaDe Hermanos: The American GI Forum
San Jose Chapter together with the AGIF East Valley Chapter
presented a beautiful, elegant gala evening. The committee chaired
by Charlie Lostaunau and Antonio Chavez, was complimented by an
outstanding committee that put out a tremendous effort to insure its
success.
Our Partners: We close
this year by thanking our community partners that have offered their
continued support to our organization with resources and
sponsorships. Partners include EI Observador, Center for Training
and Careers, AGIF East Valley Chapter, the Moose Lodge, Epicentro
Marketing, Mexican Consulate and so many more. We look forward to
building our organization and presences for all Vets and their
families.
Our Move: As we move into 2010, we leave our
story road facility. This meant the closing of our offices, and the
clubhouse. This was a hard but necessary decision to make. The
clubhouse became a gathering place for music; friends and members
could meet and celebrate, find comfort, and spend time with friends.
However, due to the organizations financial challenges and our lease
expiring - we had to move on. Please stop by and visit new office
after the New Year.
We continue to exist as an organization and have many projects that
we would like to take on. We have the opportunity to reach back and
work to fulfill the dreams and mission of Dr. Hector P. Garcia and
the American GI Forum. Now more than ever we need your help, support
and membership.
Respectfully submitted by, Letetia Rodriguez, AGIF
Operations Officer