5.21.25 - Review: A Night to Remember — Something to Call Our Own
05.21.2025
On Sunday, May 18, the staff of TASI Bank had the privilege of attending the premiere of Something to Call Our Own, a PBS Guam documentary that left an imprint on every heart in the room. Hosted at Prubechu in San Francisco—a Chamorro culinary gem—the screening was more than an event. It was a homecoming.
TASI Bank has been fortunate enough to witness our shared efforts in supporting cultural preservation, we were already excited to attend. But nothing prepared us for the emotional resonance of this film. Directed with reverence and care, Something to Call Our Own is a powerful exploration of the rebirth and resilience of Chamorro cultural dance, language, and identity.
The story is anchored by the legacy of Master Frank Rabon, whose commitment to reviving the traditions of his ancestors is nothing short of heroic. The film doesn’t just document—it breathes. From sweeping footage of FestPAC performances to intimate moments of community rehearsals, every scene underscores the urgency and beauty of cultural preservation.
Dave Joves, President of TASI Bank, reflected on the moment:
“This film is a reminder that culture is more than memory—it’s movement, language, and spirit. We’re proud to support storytelling that honors where we come from and points to where we’re going.”
The atmosphere at Prubechu was electric—part celebration, part spiritual gathering. TASI Bank was proud to co-sponsor the event, standing side by side with Prubechu to support a community that has given so much, yet so often goes unseen.
Jesus Leon Guerrero, a key leader at TASI Bank and native of Guam, captured the spirit of the evening with pride:
“We didn’t just watch a film—we reconnected with a piece of ourselves. These are our stories, our songs, our moves. It felt like being back home.”
The screening brought tears, laughter, and spontaneous applause. One moment that stood out to me was hearing Renee Obispo—a 30-year veteran of the bank and a proud daughter of Guam—share her thoughts with the room:
“To see our culture honored on this screen, in this city, means more than I can explain. I saw my parents. I saw my island. I saw myself.”
And then there was the food. Leave it to Prubechu to match cinematic excellence with culinary artistry. As we shared red rice, chicken, ribs, and spinach with coconut, we also shared stories, memories, and quiet tears. This wasn’t just about watching a film. It was about being seen.
If you have the chance to catch Something to Call Our Own, don’t walk—run. And if you’re lucky enough to watch it in a room filled with Chamorros and allies who believe in the power of heritage, prepare to leave forever changed.
This documentary reminded us that culture isn’t a relic. It’s a living, breathing rhythm—and on May 18, that rhythm echoed through every corner of Prubechu.
