Brokeback Mountain

KOR Holds 12th Annual International Assembly

By MG Llamas

ORLANDO, FL (BASTA PINOY NEWS) -- Sir Rogelio Quiambao, KGCR, Supreme Commander of the Order of the Knights of Rizal called to order its 12th Annual International Assembly last April 6 at the Marriot Hotel in Orlando. Graced by delegates from all over the US, Europe, Canada, and the Philippines, the assembly received acclaim for being world class in its organization, presentations, and topic coverage.

Hosted by the KOR Area Council Eastern USA III, led by Area Commander Sir Emmanuel "Noli" Vianzon, KGOR, the three-day assembly opened with floral offerings at the Rizal Monument in International Plaza, Lake Eola, Orlando.

Focusing on this year's theme, "Rizalism: Enhancing National Unity Though Educational Processes and Civic Involvement," guest speakers inspired the participants to reawaken their dedication to the principles of Rizalism. Among the special guests were: Honorable Generoso G. Calonge, Consul General, Embassy of the Philippines; Honorable William Bankhead, Secretary of the Department of Juvenile Justice; and Sir Sedfrey Ordonez, KGCR, Former Phil. Secretary of Justice and Ambassador to the UN.

The plenary sessions and discourses that ensued highlighted the thoughts and visions of renowned education and community leaders: Sir Rolando Sarreal, Ph.D., KCR, Deputy Regional Commander USA; Antonio Lapitan, Ph.D. Professor Emeritus, University of Dayton; Joyce Bruce, M.D., Founding President of Nanay Inc, and Professor, Department of Neuropathy, University of Miami; and Lady Lally Ferro, Ll.B. Past President, KR Ladies Auxiliary, Jacksonville.

Ecumenical services and a tour of the "City Beautiful" capped the affair which wouldn't have been the success that it was if not for the extraordinary efforts of Program Director, Coordinator Special Projects USA, and Eastern USA III Area Ceremonial Rites and Legal Officer Sir Val F. Dagani, Jr. KGOR, and the officers and staff of the Central Florida, Jacksonville, and Cleveland Chapters.