Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month - Josephine Brusola

Potawatomi Casino Hotel honors Asian and Pacific American Heritage Month- Meet Josephine Brusola

We had the privilege of sitting down and highlighting Josephine Brusola, a Filipino community member and the General Manager of RuYi at Potawatomi Casino Hotel. Josephine elaborated on her present position, cultural customs, and what AAPI month means to her.

“Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is an opportunity to promote access to the traditions, values, and food that I grew up with and share with my fellow team members here at PHC. It creates a sense of individual and collective belonging, after all, we are one big family here at Potawatomi.”

Q- What is your current role, and what inspired you to work for RuYi?
A-    I am the General Manager at RuYi. What inspired me to work for RuYi is the guest experience and dining experience that we offer the guests.

Q- What is your favorite dish at RuYi and why?
A-    All the food we serve at RuYi is delicious and will eventually be on your favorite list. It is hard to narrow it down to just one. But we used to serve steamed or fried, whole Red Snapper and Branzino fish. I loved the flavor and presentation. We steam the fish until it was tender and juicy. Then, drizzle with soy sauce, scallion, and lots of fresh ginger. To top it off we would quickly sear it with hot oil that was infused with aromatic flavor from fresh ginger and served with rice and dig in.
 

Q- What’s the most exciting part of your job?
A-    Besides overseeing the daily operations of a fast-paced restaurant, and managing/ and training team members, my favorite part of the job is the opportunity to meet new people every day in different walks of life. It is great to laugh, share stories, and listen to our guests. I enjoy sharing my appreciation with my RuYi team for all of the busy and high-volume nights. It is what keeps us moving forward and continuing what we do.

Q- What is your proudest career accomplishment to date?
A-    My professional focus has been primarily on the food and beverage sector. I've been at RuYi for nearly 12 years now. I've moved up from server, Assistant Shift Manager, Shift Manager, Multi Venue Manager, and now General Manager at the restaurant I love dearly. After each day shift, regardless of whether it was a successful or unsuccessful night, your entire team returns the following day and repeats the procedure with the same tired smile. In my book, I consider that an everyday accomplishment in the absence of others.

Q- In honor of Asian Pacific Heritage Month, what is your favorite cultural tradition?
A-    There are such countless practices that I really miss. One example is the New Year's Eve celebration, during which everyone gathers with family and neighbors on the street to sing and eat. Another would be Pangmamano or Mano (hand-kissing) which is a Filipino motion done by youngsters to their seniors as an honorable gesture. Elderly folks will stretch out their hands to you and give you favors.

Q- How has your heritage shaped the person you are today?
A-    Filipinos are known for being hospitable, happy, family-oriented, religious, resourceful, and resilient, among other things. At a very young age, I experienced that life isn’t fair at times. I’m a strong believer that we should rise above the challenge and pick ourselves up and smile.

Q- What is one activity or dish from the Asian side of your culture that you think everybody should try?
A-    Dishes such as Adobo, Balut, and Pancit are Filipino dishes that are already out there. I think everybody should try one of my favorite ulam (dish). It is called Pork Belly Dinuguan which is a Filipino savory stew. It is made with pork meat simmered in a rich dark sauce using pig’s blood, garlic, chili, and vinegar. It is best to be paired with rice or a steamed rice cake.

Visit RuYi today to enjoy delicious Asian entrees and enjoy the hospitality from Josephine and her amazing team today!