meet the vol. 03 issue 03 team January / February 2016

Hello 2016! Hello F! What an amazing First issue for F this year! We did end 2015 with a “First” party for F magazine family and friends and we are actually starting our first issue with so many firsts--- First back-to- Recognize a Face? back success stories of “entreprenurses” in Arizona and Chicago. This is the first time I won’t spoil your fun reading our stories by not giving you They are helping bring the Community the gist of our featured stories. I just want to thank all of you for the many closer together! The ~F-Team~ firsts last year and for welcoming the F team in Chicago. Works for You! We look forward for a flip magazine next month where both Arizona and Chicago can shine on our front covers. Another first! FROM LEFT TO RIGHT (start from the top + left) F indeed stands for the many Firsts we started. Thank you. Maraming salamat po and Mabuhay! Ihman Basas Esturco...... Director of Photography Sheila Vidamo-Vertuno...... Writer/Contributor Happy reading! *Please don’t forget to like Fmagazine and Jumping Norman...... Writer/Contributor follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Go to www.myfmagazine.com to access our online edition to reach our kababayans not Maureen Montagne...... Writer/Contributor only here in the US but globally. Maraming John Erichson Licas...... Writer/Contributor salamat po! #fmagazineusa #myfmagazine Timothy Chakkaw...... Director of Creative Design #fisfirst #fteam Marcus Llagas...... Photography (Imba Photography)

Fleur Magbanua-Mansur MSN, RN Catherine Gardiola...... Writer/Contributor Kathryne Baya Yabut...... Marketing Coordinator Editor-in-chief/Publisher F Magazine for Chicago, IL / Contributor Philippine Nurse’s Association of Arizona Excellence in Nursing Leadership Awardee 2015 Jovie Calma...... Writer/Contributor Video Journalist, ABS-CBN Balitang America Entrepreneur, owner of Avision Health Care Consulting and Senior Placement, Grace Marian Alcordo...... Official Makeup Artist Home Health Care, and Valley Home Care

Editor in Chief Contributors Official Makeup Artist Fleur Magbanua Mansur Catherine Heather Gardiola Marian Alcordo Maureen Montagne Creative Director Charmel dela Cruz Photography Ihman Esturco Jumping Norman Ihman Esturco Fleur Magbanua Mansur John Erichson Licas Marcus Llagas Tim Chakkaw Cheska Tariga Jim Hesterman Joey Baloria Technical Engineering Sheila Vidamo-Vertuno Jamal Mansur Jovie Calma Kathryne Baya Yabut Marketing Coordinator for Chicago, IL Kathryne Baya Yabut

Contact information Phone number: 623-810-1320 Website: myfmagazine.com

04 FMagazine | January/February 2016 aces of the Month shining light on some of the rising stars that are lucky enough to cross our galaxy!

Cryzlyn Domingo chicago. illinois

She is aspiring to become a firend to those who are fortunate to bein nurse and business owner. She her circle. She has many interests such as was born in the , but working with children, modeling, and baton a majority of her life was spent twirling. She enjoys devoting her time to the in Chicago, a city she grew to less fortunate by donating old clothes and love. Cryzlyn immerses herself helping out in the soup kitchens when time in her heritage by speaking permits., while also reflecting on her own the native tounge, and through self-growth. Her journey of personal devel- the education of her Filipino opment is heavily attributed to her firm faith culture. In addition, she’s pas- in God. One of her life goals is to gve back sionate, hardworking, indepen- to her parents because she’s thankful for dent, a voluneteer, and a great the opportunities they have provided for her.

Mick Thomas Andaleon Lim phoenix, arizona

Mick Thomas A. Lim, born to well-acquainted with my Chinese heritage. Julius and Annabel in Batan- I may be described as very geeky. I love gas City, Batangas, Philip- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, & pines. I have lived most of Mathematics). I had been working as well at my life so far in Quezon City, GCC as a computer science tutor for over 2 Metro Manila, Philippines. I years, and more recently, as a math tutor. I am half Chinese and half Fili- have just started attending classes at Arizo- pino (Tsinoy), the former due na State University in Tempe, AZ. As of this to my father; though cultural- writing, I am a junior pursuing a bachelor’s ly, I can’t say I am thoroughly degree in Computer (Systems) Engineering.

Official Makeup Artist visit for updates and extras Marian Alcordo myFmagazine.com Photography Ihman Esturco Marcus Llagas Jim Hesterman

January/February 2016 | FMagazine 05 FMagazine @ 2015

Congratulations to the new Pia Wurtzbach! F magazine asked some Fil-Ams in the Valley to share their reactions and experiences when they witnessed the controversial epic crowning moment of the Miss Universe last December 20, 2015 at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas.

Pia Wurtzbach is the third Miss Universe from the Philippines, following the footsteps of Margarita Moran in 1973 and Miss Gloria Diaz in 1969. us nursing review

Photos courtesy of Suzanne Marge Celine Kennedy Bev Llorente Miss Teen Philippines Arizona 2015 - PHX, AZ ABS-CBN North America News Bureau Caroline Morton, 8th grade student Peoria, AZ “To be at the 2015 Miss Universe Pageant was such a thrilling experience! And to have “Miss Universe 2015 was an amazing experi- our very own Pia Wurtzbach, Miss Philip- ence. Everyone was cheering for Pia. She had pines be crowned Miss Universe 2015 was clearly won the crowd. Worried voices could be even more memorable. Every single mo- heard when the top 10 were reached and there ment of the competition was nerve-racking were only two places left. They called Philip- for all of us Pinoys especially when the most pines and you could hear the applause around controversial mishap occured. When Steve the room. She had definitely won the crowd. In Harvey the host, announced that He had the top 3 you could hear the excitement as she made an honest mistake of saying that Miss was the last name called. The last question and didn’t win, all of us Filipinos in the answer proved it, everyone knew she would win. audience gasped in shock. I looked over to Then, came out and announced my mother (Jocylyn Kennedy) then to our Richard Hapan the winner. He said Miss Columbia. Our whole friends Marissa Lovullo and Debe Dahmani, Entrepreneur from Gilbert, AZ section was shocked. People started to boo. and we were all just speechless. The look They all wanted Pia to win. Finally Steve Har- on Miss Colombia’s face as she had to give “Miss universe 2015 was in- vey came back out saying he made a mistake. up her crowning moment broke our hearts. It tense and historic. The crowd Everyone’s eyes widened as he went up there. was an extremely difficult situation for Miss was very much alive and the He announced that the true winner was not Miss Colombia and Miss Philippines. But setting Columbia, but it was Miss Philippines. Everyone support from each representa- the controversy aside, Pia Wurtzbach tru- started to cheer and get up. I was ecstatic. How- ly deserved the 2015 Miss Universe title. tive was amazing. Miss Philip- ever, I, like most felt a tinge of pain for Miss Co- Through the swimsuit and evening gown pines was definitely a crowd lumbia who had her dream ripped from her. It was competition she didn’t once display any favorite not only by Filipinos. not until after we went downstairs that people amount of nervousness. The answers she We were seated right next to began discussing the issue. There were similar gave to the judges questions showed how Mexicans, Venezuelans, Jap- responses, it was an embarrassing mistake that incredibly humble and intelligent she is. Wit- anese, Vietnam and Thai’s I caused much more uproar than if the proper win- nessing the 2015 Miss Universe pageant live believed. They were also sup- ner had been announced. People were quite up- was definitely a moment of a lifetime. Every set with Steve Harvey, but thankfully, hardly any- porting and rooting for Miss second, from beginning to the end was in- body, If anyone were upset at the girls. This was a tense. We are so blessed to have been a Philippines. It was a once in a historical victory that will surely be remembered. part of Pia’s journey. 2015 Miss Universe... lifetime experience to witness Congratulations to the Philippines for Pia Wurtzbach is the epitome of a the most controversial and bringing the crown back home after over true beauty queen, confidently beau- historic Miss Universe. 40 years!” tiful with a heart.” Bravura Filipinas!”

06 FMagazine | January/February 2016 PASS nclex NOW!

us nursing review www.USNursingReview.com

now offering review master for NCLEX RN / PN HESI, ATI CNA exam Call Today! 773-709-5613 Ben Barranco EntrepreNurse! IN FOCUS - AZ journey to like working and be- Ben Barranco’s ing confined in the four dreams started walls of a healthcare THE when he moved facility. He’s always from the Phil- liked to travel, reach ippines to San out and engage with Francisco, California in 2003. He different people. So decided to leave everything from his he decided to work in homeland; his career, friends and home health nursing family to pursue his dream. Living as a case manager in one of the most dreamed cities for 5 productive and in the world is not always easy. Ben meaningful years. “I had to start from the bottom. He enjoyed working there worked as a caregiver. That was having the liberty of his very first option and since he my own time and inde- had a nursing background. It was pendence that made not long enough that it became his me so productive. I first job in the US. “It was a very also love the fact that tough job especially it was my first the job employs multi time to go through the rigors of tak- disciplinary approach. ing care of senior patients. But I I would say that man- loved it! Geriatric nursing was very agement is one of my close to my heart and every time strongest areas in With no clinical nursing background, Ben landed in the nursing skilled fa- cility where he worked for more than a year. He didn’t really like working and being confined in the four walls of a healthcare facility.

that I serve our clients, I got so en- performing my job.” clearly how the assisted living business works. amored to the job that continuous Apart from my nurs- In 2007 when US economy was about to col- to grow as my passion until now.” ing job, he took a sec- lapse, he searched for some other working av- Ben was a caregiver for over a ond work as a well- enues. He never thought that he would get an year then he got his Licensed Prac- ness coordinator in an offer to buy a residential care facility in Gilbert, tical Nurse license. Then a little over assisted living facility Arizona. With no doubt, Ben and his partner five months, he got his license as right in the heart of Chad accepted the offer. “We left the city (San a registered nurse. “I thought I had San Francisco. It was Francisco) we both loved the most and ven- reached my dream, but I realized a dream come true for tured into something we never knew what was later, I was just half my way through Ben. He managed the going to happen for us here in Arizona. We got it.” With no clinical nursing back- nursing and marketing no friends and family around that made starting ground, Ben landed in the nursing side of the company a business doubly difficult. But we always have skilled facility where he worked for that gave him the op- this dream to become entrepreneurs in the line more than a year. He didn’t really portunity to understand of business that we both are passionate about,

08 FMagazine | January/February 2016 We left the city (San Francisco) we both loved the most and ventured into something we never knew what was going to happen for us here in Arizona.

a residential care facility.” Chad got his Administrator license that year and because of his eagerness to learn plus his previous healthcare experiences, the two, in tandem ran the business smoothly. They em- braced together their new business with zeal and professionalism. “We love the concept of a 24-hour care in the home-like environment, which for us the market segment in the as- sisted living world is so vast.” They stayed focus on how to improve the services they provide and learn the different curves of the business. ~ F Magazine

• Moved from the Philippines to San Francisco, California in 2003. • Ben was a caregiver for over a year then he got his Licensed Practical Nurse license. • Worked in home health nurs- ing as a case manager for 5 productive and meaningful years.

Photography by Imba Photography (Marcus Llagas)

“We have ensured that our staff give the highest level of professionalism and personal care. Over time, through many ups and downs, we have somehow managed to solidify our own suc- cess formula and our own brand. “ – As told to Fleur Magbanua-Mansur MSN, RN

January/February 2016 | FMagazine 09 special story Mary Jane Evangelista F in Living is

Bestwhen you’re Touching Lives Broad family values | Happiness | Absolute sense of accomplishment | Honesty Broad family values | Happiness Responsibility | Intellect Human dinity Equality Prevention of sufferying

Some achievements bring fulfill- ment that cannot be described by

words alone, but only through the Nursing Values soft language of the heart. These are the achievements that most “ It would be a remiss to overlook [her] humanitarian exploits. She had resonate with Mary Jane Evangelis- witnessed the struggles of unlicensed nurses, and her first-hand experience ta, BSMT, BSN, RN, MAN, an aca- and awareness of the hardships that healthcare providers go through only in- demic and entrepreneur who has a creased her determination to provide quality education for aspiring nurses. “ heart for helping people and an en- thusiastic view of life. Evangelista is a renowned professor of nursing at to the pinnacle of her career. 2001, she earned her Bachelor of Sci- Devry University’s Chamberlain Col- Mary Jane is a workaholic, an ence Degree in Medical Technology lege of Nursing and the author of the achiever in every sense of the at CEU (Centro Escolar University), US Nursing Review Book, a nurs- word, and a free-spirited person- Manila. She also finished her Bach- ing exam preparation book for CNA ality. She is the co-founder and elors of Science in Nursing at De (Certified Nurse Assistants), LPN director of education of US Nurs- Ocampo Memorial College in Manila. (Licensed Practical Nurse), and BSN ing Review Center. She also is a Later, due to her love for the medical (Bachelor of Science in Nursing). professor, teaching medical-sur- profession, she enrolled in the Philip- She epitomizes everything that gical and pharmacology, a clinical pine College of Health Sciences and is humble, noble, and courageous instructor at ATS Institute in down- earned a Masters of Arts in Nursing. in her quest to fulfill her calling. town Chicago, and lead instructor as a child, Mary Jane first took In spite of daunting challenges at Allied Health Care Training Cen- notice of teaching when her older that have confronted her, she was ter. She was always academically sister Florence, took her to sit in the able to surmount them and ride strong, graduating with honors. In classes where Florence worked as

10 FMagazine | January/February 2016 a professor. Through her constant cializing in thesis consultation and give up. There was no turning back. exposure to the classroom envi- nursing research. She was also a Her never-quit, no-surrender atti- ronment, the influence of education nurse educator in the medical sur- tude made Mary Jane independent. grew stronger and the value of it was gery ward at Manila Doctor’s Col- The learning experience had forced firmly instilled in the young girl. As lege in Pasay City, and at Emilio her to start over from the beginning Mary Jane grew, she gained an in- Aguinaldo College in Manila she and reminded her that achievement terest in two different fields: teaching won recognition for her outstand- or success had to be earned through and medicine. In high school, Mary ing and selfless service as the col- hard work and determination. Mary Jane was also sociable and won the lege’s Best Clinical Nurse Educator. Jane then moved to a rented room hearts of many as Miss San Carlos migrating to the united states in Chicago and stayed for nearly two Mariveles Bataan and in college, meant figuring that seeking green- months; it was a tough, but neces- her reputation soared: she became er pastures outside the Philippines sary decision that would allow her to a Filipina Air Force Platoon Nurse could expand her knowledge and focus on her review preparation for and was featured in focus in Immi- capabilities as a nurse educator. It NCLEX® or U.S. licensure exam. gration Magazine in the Philippines. is a travesty in Philippines that most After acquiring her U.S. nurse With the support and strict guidance nurses are not well compensated, license, Mary Jane moved to a of her mother, Norma, Mary Jane and their opportunities to progress one-bedroom apartment, where she earned her first bachelor in their careers cared for her mother. She earned degree in BS Medical Tech- are somewhat a certification as nursing instructor nology. She intended to tainted with poli- and evaluator at Triton College in use her nursing role as her River Grove, Illinois. She excelled stepping-stone into medi- there and continued to push cine; her desire to become her frontiers by the certifi- a doctor was rooted in her cation from the Department experience of seeing elders of Public Health and ap- in her family suffer in dire proval from the Illinois State conditions – including her Board of Education to train father, who died when she and educate Certified Nurse was very young. But due Assistants, Licensed Practi- to changing circumstanc- cal Nurses and Registered es, a desire for a change Nurses. Her wealth of expe- in her work environment, rience was further enriched as a and after her sister Lalane Care Plan Coordinator, Restorative and Irene migrated to the and Rehabilitation Director, Nurse United States, Mary Jane decid- Manager, and Quality Assurance ed to earn another bachelor’s de- Nurse at Ridgeview Nursing Center. gree in a related field of medicine ...After acquiring her U.S. She also worked as a nursing su- – nursing – and, after getting it, nurse license, Mary Jane moved pervisor at Brightview Nursing and kept studying to earn her Masters to a one-bedroom apartment, an educator for CNA/LPN and RN. of Arts in Nursing. This launched where she cared for her mother. Consultation and training of spe- her teaching career, which had al- cialists was also on her long list of ways been her first passion and experiences, which she acquired calling. She believes that, through tics. Mary Jane’s decision to migrate during her 11-year journey as a pro- teaching, she can help more peo- to America was an adventurous fessor of nursing. Having lectured ple by producing caring health care move, and it came with a price. She at Samland Institute of Allied Health professionals who share her vision, found herself adjusting to the cul- and Technology in its Basic Nursing knowledge and moral standards. ture, commuting through bitter cold Assistant Training Program, she also “When you’re fulfilled in what winter weather on a bus, train and assumed the role of Dean of a voca- you do, always aspire to achieve on foot. She found herself striding tional school during this period. Her more so you can share more.” into gusts of wind and snow, with- finesse and dexterity were top-notch. Mary Jane’s first teaching job was out boots, proper clothing or a down But it would be remiss to overlook as an instructor of foreign students jacket, and dealing with her sisters Mary Jane’s humanitarian exploits. in Lih Yuh, Philippines. When that and their family, with whom she lived She had witnessed the struggles of job ended, she proceeded to work for six months. She endured rigors unlicensed nurses, and her first-hand at Saint Mary’s College at San Juan, too many to mention. But she faced experience and awareness of the Manila, as a nurse educator, spe- them head on, and told herself to not hardships that healthcare providers

January/February 2016 | FMagazine 11 go through only increased her de- but always finds ways to rest and unwind. hard work and sacrifice is to termination to provide quality ed- Her recent appearance on CPRTV’s see the people she’s helped ucation for aspiring nurses. Thus, LOL – an ethnic TV show on Chicago become successful in life. Mary Jane and her husband, Bri- cable 25 – showcased her acting talent an Evangelista, an accomplished and lovable sense of humor. But that’s In her quest to fulfill her entrepreneur and U.S.-certified not all. Together with her husband, Mary life purpose, Mary Jane has educator, sprang into action. Jane escapes the hustle and bustle of the poured her heart and soul “True success is measured only city during quick getaways to nearby re- into education and made by how you share it with others in sorts and hotels. Her love for shopping, sure that those who came their efforts to succeed.”— BEfic. spas and cooking help her release the in contact with her have had This is one of Brian’s principles stresses of her demanding career – as a chance to succeed, just which Mary Jane applies in her does the occasional indulgence in her like she did. Her efforts have dealings with people and in life. guilty pleasure: Philippine soap operas never fall short when her Together, the couple established and tele-series, which Mary Jane enjoys students are concerned, as the US Nursing Review Corpora- and follows. But the real reward for her she does everything she can tion. Mary Jane and her husband felt a moral obligation to produce not just academically astute nurs- es, but, most of all, nurses who Mary Jane’s decision to migrate to were caring and respectful to those in need of help and dedicat- America was an adventurous move, and it ed to improving people’s lives. As such, the Evangelistas have con- came with a price....She found herself tributed to several charitable orga- nizations in the Philippines and the striding into gusts of wind and snow, without U.S. to support disease preven- tion and research, education, hun- boots, proper clothing or a down jacket, ger prevention and nutrition. They continuously extend their nursing and dealing with her sisters and their program for free to a select few in the nursing profession, and the family, with whom she lived for six months. students they’ve sponsored are now certified and licensed nurses actively employed in the health- to support the attainment of lofty goals. time. According to her, these care industry. They have produced Mary Jane’s pursuits, however, don’t end principles are in line with a family of professionals with high here: she’s on the verge of continuing specific nursing values ex- ethical standards and a drive to her doctorate at a University in Illinois. plored in the literature and make a difference for the better. Value creation is also high on her list, remain consistent worldwide. two years ago, Mary Jane re- as she goes beyond the call of duty to in- She believes it is her ob- ceived the Excellence in Education still in her students and other people the ligation as a nurse educator Award 2014 from the prestigious need to uphold the quintessential factor of to remain at the cutting edge Chicago Filipino Asian American value creation. Mary Jane believes that of practice, regardless of the Hall of Fame. The honor was be- times are changing, and that this will af- discipline. She also believes stowed during their 20th annual fect the quality of care delivered by nurs- that nursing leaders should gala event, held at the Crowne es. New challenges in health care are im- read about healthcare eco- Plaza Chicago O’Hare Hotel. pacting the work environment for nurses nomics, leadership theory and Considering her crushing work- and, more than ever, creating value con- other issues that impact those load, it’s easy to wonder whether flicts in the personal, professional, institu- in leadership roles. Nursing Mary Jane ever gets tired. In fact, tional and social realms. But this doesn’t is a noble helping profes- even when she’s fatigued, she still deter Mary Jane: she works diligently sion that makes the world manifests the traits of a dedicated to train nurses with a strong interest in better through the wonder educator and makes it a point to making valuable contributions to society. of healing – and Mary Jane speak with a loud voice to deliver Nursing, in her opinion, is a spiritu- would like to keep it that way. lectures of undiminished quality. al vocation whose fundamental prin- ~ F Magazine Indeed, she does get exhausted, ciples have remained unaltered over

12 FMagazine | January/February 2016 Mary Jane

Hair and Makeup by Robert Chavez Photography by Ihman Esturco Fashion Scene Do Not Just Dress the Part the BRAND Matters! What does Personal Branding really mean?

Irvine, CA – You read it right! Dressing the part does not cut it anymore, the brand - your PERSONAL BRAND that is, matters a whole lot more. It is true that showing up physically and making a good first impression is key. However, in a digitally dominated world, to make a great lasting impression, you have to have a solid understanding of who you are, know what values you create and offer, and be keenly mindful of the total experience of your interaction.

Ask Yourself...

• Did you have a meaningful connection at work yesterday? • How would your most recent Face- book post affect other people? • Did your last call/text leave the other person better than before? • What underlying message was implied in your latest Instagram selfie? • Who had the final word in your last di- alouge? Was it a put up or a put down?

• What would be memorable to your Emma Teibens - best selling author, marketing child from last night’s dinner conversa- strategist and brand coach. tions?

Memories are emo- Whether in person or on- consultant and author of Amazon’s bestselling tionally charged; they are line, one almost always book, Magnetic Memorable and Trusted. Emma etched in people’s hearts leaves a lasting “signa- defines, “In its simplest sense, Personal Brand is and minds based on the ture” mark on others. Do the feeling or opinion that people have of you af- emotions felt during and you know how other peo- ter your interaction with them. You constantly ex- after connections. These ple feel after interacting ude your Personal Brand whether you know it or impressions are important with you? Do you know not. If you fail to consciously create that brand, career-wise as an entre- your personal brand? people will automatically create one for you.” preneur, leader, or col- What does Person- On a daily basis, Emma helps clients who de- league, and even more al Brand really mean? sire more purpose and meaning in their lives, to crucial in personal rela- For an expert answer, identify their magnetic brand stories. With cer- tionships as a parent, a I turned to Emma Tie- tainty Emma says, “Our personal brand dictates partner, a child, or a friend. bens, brand marketing whether we will magnetize or repel important peo-

14 FMagazine | January/February 2016 By: Sheila Vidamo-Vertuno

in its ...Personal Brand is the feeling or Simplestsense “ opinion that people have of you after your interaction with them...If you fail to consciously create that brand, people will automatically create one for you.” ple and opportunities in our lives! That’s a lot to digest! And The number one secret to having this is a good stopping point a ‘Magnetic Personal Brand’ is for reading and start exercising simple – show genuine desire to S.M.I.L.E.! Stay tuned for Part 2, get to know others first. Make in the next issue, where Emma them feel important and for that will share the 6 Pillars to a Mag- brief interaction, make them feel netic Personal Brand and how to like they are the most important effectively communicate them. Emma person in the world! How do you Farewell 2015! Hello 2016!! do that? By showing them genu- ‘Tis the time of the year when iebens ine interest through an acronym motivation is high, promises are T I created, S.M.I.L.E. which is not made, health wear and gadgets =) are on demand S – Show Genuine Interest and the M gyms – Make Eye Contact are full. I – Introduce Yourself First I have never L – Laugh and Be Silly been a New E – Engage Fully Year’s reso- lution kinda gal, af- just for an in-person interaction ter all, the success rate is a but is also highly effective online. mere 8-12%. It’s a good thing Often times, once people really that personal brand creation is know that you care, they will feel not a new year’s sprint. As an a sense of returning the favor by on going development, much asking you how they too can sup- like a marathon, let us contin- Dressed the part and bearing a clear port you. It is very important to uously self-reflect, evolve and brand, Emma Teibens’ mission is to have a Personal Brand especially grow deeper into our purpose. remind that “Your Story Matters” if you have plans of stepping-out F Magazine readers, be in a big way in your life and career aware of your brand and mani- - if you’re wanting to meet the fest your 2016 headline. Hap- man or woman of your dreams, py New YOU!!! Let’s connect or if you’re seeking a promotion online, visit, LIKE and mes- at work, attracting more clients sage “Chasing Sheila” on for your business, creating a Facebook/Twitter/Instagram! following of loyal advocates or ‘Til the next ish dolls. In the elevating your position for poten- meantime, get your FASH on, keep tial collaborators and investors.” styling and make a fashion scene! ~ Sheila Vidamo-Vertuno

January/February 2016 | FMagazine 15 MY

Passioncame to Life staring Bacolod Chicken Haus story by Christine Ledesma

“ It has been our dream to share the food endemic to the place we grew up from. We spent most of our lives in Bacolod, the City of Smiles. “

My passion for food and enter- to run, time has been scarce the same building where several Filipino establish- taining people has a lot to do why to put the plan in place. Every- ments are located and is smack right across Unimart, Bacolod Chicken Haus came into thing changed when my broth- the big Filipino store. Customers will not be hard to being. I grew up in a big family. er, Jean Paul, decided to leave find. It turned out, however, that the cost of opening a My mother has 17 siblings and London and migrate here in the restaurant from scratch is so prohibitive and time con- we were all living in a small town US. They got settled two blocks suming that we have to abandon the idea and look in the Southern part of Negros away from my home and we for an existing restaurant to take over. With God’s Occidental. Growing up, we’ve started to coordinate our time grace, we found one and in two months time, we were held so many parties for differ- and resources running our indi- able to open Bacolod Chicken Haus to the public. ent occasions. With a close-knit vidual households. We share the It has been our dream to share the food endemic family like mine, we always end same passion for food and he to the place we grew up from. We spent most of our up cooking for a bunch of people. also has interest in the restau- lives in Bacolod, the City of Smiles. We are proud of Sharing good food with friends rant business. We worked on our our city back home and we want to show our pride and family and the bond that you plan. Initially, we found a place by making available to customers the things our City developed while doing it has kin- along Clark which is suited for is known for. Bacolod City is renowned for its world dled my passion for cooking. a restaurant considering it is in class Masskara Festival in the month of October. And When I got here in the US some you have not really been to Ba- fifteen (15) years ago, I honed colod if you have not tasted its my cooking skills since nobody is famed Chicken Inasal. Thus, around to do the cooking for you. we offered Chicken Inasal and I would always try new recipes featured the festive Masska- and invite friends over to taste ra in our restaurant’s interior. my new creation. It gives me sat- ~ Christine Ledesma isfaction when friends rave on how good my food tastes. Many enthused, “Why don’t you open a restaurant?” Obviously, they say, “ I would always try I have the passion for cooking, new recipes and invite the knowledge to run a business and supportive friends who are friends over to taste my willing and would be paying cus- new creation. It gives tomers. Key factors for success, me satisfaction when I supposed. It’s time to cash in. friends rave on how I had this plan of opening a good my food tastes. “ restaurant for a while now but with family and another business

16 FMagazine | January/February 2016 Arizona Scene

Photography by John Erichson

Seflie 101 - Business Mixer Sabino Canyon Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Arizona and The 3000 Club 7 Waterfalls - Tucson, AZ

Photography by Marcus Llagas

The Philippine American gramming, or tweeting are you get the picture? A skillful We aim to visit and share all Chamber of Commerce in col- powerful, effective, and in- entrepreneur will emphasize of the possible wonders of Ar- laboration with the 3000 Club expensive marketing tools. building a positive facebook izona. Tucson, Arizona offers held an event on January 6, One of the important wall. This can easily be done plenty of the Sonoran Desert to 2015 for an open mixer. Hosted topics that night was how by displaying happy quotes, explore. A total of 4-5miles into by the fabulous lively speaker to post stories on your best selfies related to your Sabino Canyon lies the 7 water- of the night, the selfie queen wall. A lot of times the business, and posting about falls. Although dangerous in the Fleur Magbanua, talked about common social media personal interests. There’s raining seasons, it is the perfect how entrepreneurs can have an user will post many things definitely more to just posting hike during the earlier months epic start on their 2016. Brand- about themselves. Unfor- your selfies on your walls! of the year. The waterfalls are only visible this time of year; in ing is everything in business tunately, this also includes ~ Santi Patino and the selfie queen does it negative posts. No one the summer months you will find best by doing lots of ….guess cares if you had a terrible mud and dry pools. Let’s start what? Beautiful selfies! There day at work, how much this new year with full of activity were many essential marketing you hate your boss, how and adventure. Check out other principles she went over that a customer does not know adventures in our beautiful state. night. Entrepreneurs struggle where the power button Follow @AZ.TinyTravels on ins- with cost effective marketing not is on their cellphone, how tagram for insta-inspirations on realizing that facebooking, insta- your car got scratched- hiking travels! ~ John Erichson

January/February 2016 | FMagazine 17 visit myFmagazine.com for updates and extras IN FOCUS - CHICAGO Sifu Jho and his

Journey Jho and his family gathered their to success things and moved to the U.S. in the eighties; this move opened several new opportunities for Jho to learn martial arts as he gained access to the world’s most renowned martial art experts. The word Sifu is a Chinese word that means “master” or “father”; this is a dignified term in the world of martial arts. Since beginning his martial art’s journey, Jho has trained for years and is now a well-respected and well-known Sifu. Sifu Jho has attended multiple renowned seminars and has attended a seminar presented by Guro Dan Inosanto who was one of Bruce Lee’s friends and students. Sifu Jho’s achievements include a second-degree black belt in Jiu Jitsu, a second-degree black rcadio “Jho- belt in Combat Hapkido, a black belt jho” Moraga is in Eskrima, a second-degree black the co-owner belt in Kempo, and certification as a and founder of the es- Jeet Kune Do Instructor. Sifu Jho is A now happily married to his beautiful teemed Jho- Boun Martial Arts School lo- wife, Melissa Minebe-Moraga, and cated in New Lenox, Illinois. is the proud father of two sons who Jho was born in the Philip- he hopes to pass his legacy on to. pines and spent the major- Sifu Jho began teaching by ity of his early life in Mey- coaching a small number of stu- visit for updates and extras cauayan, Bulacan. After dents in his partner’s garage. His being exposed to multiple martial art films at the age number of students grew to such of 13, he developed a lik- a substantial number that eventu- ing to the sport; during his ally lead him to open a school in teen years Jho practiced on Frankfort, Illinois in 2002. Jho-Boun nothing but banana trees in Martial Arts started out as a Jeet the province. Jho has come Kune Do centered school, which is a long way since his starting famed by its founder, Bruce Lee. his humble journey and now The curriculum and teaching styles is a nationally known leader and teacher. have expanded as the demand for his diversified expertise grew. Along Photography by with teaching the technical move- ments, Sifu Jho teaches the lifetime Reggie Deanching relevance and real life application of martial arts. I was very lucky to have met Bruce Lee’s wife, Linda Lee. “I was able to train/meet with a couple of greatest martial artists in the world. It is very humbling.”

We asked Sifu Jho what oppor- who promote Safe Communities America. tunities he encountered in the U.S., Consumers are very smart and do a lot of he stated “Coming here gave me research before they commit to enrolling. the opportunity to excel in soccer I find that being dedicated to the art and and martial arts that I would not genuinely living what I preach and teach have been able to do in the Philip- invite life long students.” pines because of access to great Sifu Jho explained his school’s princi- coaches/teachers and exposure. ples “The focus of my school is practical As an example, I was very lucky to application. Competitions have their pur- have met Bruce Lee’s wife, Linda pose to gauge skill levels for more tradi- Lee. I was able to train/meet with a tional martial arts. However, what I teach couple of the greatest martial artists does not gauge my student’s accomplish- in the world. It is very humbling.” ments through structured competitions. “JBMA stands for Jho-Boun What I teach is how to defend yourself Martial Arts. Boun Saysongkahm from the bad elements in real life. It is is my partner. Our studio is locat- how you are able to adjust your defense ed in New Lenox, IL. Boun is from in situations and save your life or the life Laos and he was my first student. of a loved one. It is how to get yourself out We have one school and have no of potentially violent and debilitating situa- plans for any satellites. Our sched- tions and to come out of them unharmed. ules can be found at http://www. I do this by learning as much as I can from jhobounmartialarts.com/schedule. different forms of martial arts and combin- html. I have 50+ students ranging ing the best of each practice in one appli- from ages 4 to 60. We have youth, cation. This is the fundamental idea of the teenage, and adult programs.” great Bruce Lee. This is the foundation When asked how he managed of my school. My curriculum is based on to run such a successful business Jeet Kune Do, Bruce Lee’s method. A lot and what challenges he faced, he of his teaching and philosophies form what stated“ I am very lucky to have loy- I teach like “Using no way as a way” and al instructors. My first two students, “Simplicity is the key to brilliance”. ” Boun and Anthony, are still teach- When asked what he loved about his ing with me today. I do not have job, he said, “I am very blessed to be able a lot of challenges when it comes to make a living out of what I love to do to my operations. The biggest chal- most. This also gives me the opportunity lenge that I face is getting what I to be with my family and have a very flex- teach out there for my target mar- ible schedule. Being your own boss en- ket to understand what I teach. It is ables you to raise your children and spend hard for people to see martial arts quality time with your wife. I wouldn’t have outside of the franchised karate it any other way” schools that pop up at every corner We can’t wait to see what more Sifu Jho of America’s urban and suburban has to offer the community; he has been a towns.” standout community leader and is making “I am involved in the local com- waves on a national level. If you’re inter- munity and chamber of commerce. ested in martial arts and self-defense look This increases my exposure and no further, Jho-Boun Martial Arts is the reaches my target market directly. perfect place to start learning. I’ve done seminars in collaboration ~ Jovie Calma with the local police department

20 FMagazine | January/February 2016 January/February 2016 | FMagazine 21 Ronwaldo

Coco Martin’s Ten years after, Ronwaldo Mar- Coco was billed as Rodel Na- Aunor film for di- younger brother tin was introduced in the Kapam- cianceno in his previous films rector Real Florido and Boy is Ronwaldo Martin pangan film Ari, the debut film of where he played bit roles. Ron- San Agustin. He plays one the new indie Carlo Enciso Catu. The film won waldo on the other hand, used of the sons of prince? the Best World Film in at the Har- the name Ron Cieno in Cap- and . The From the looks lem International Film Festival tive, Tumbang Preso and Kasal. other children are Jason of it, Ronwaldo has all the and Best Debut Feature Film in After appearing in brief roles Abalos, JC de Vera and makings to this royalty title. the All Lights India International in indie films, Ronwaldo was of- RJ Agustin. The film has In 2005, Coco Martin was Film Festival. It won 4 awards in- fered the lead role in Ari (My Life still a few days shoot and launched into full stardom via cluding Best Feature in the New With A King) by producer Ferdi- the location is in Bulacan. the Kapampangan film Masa- Wave section of the Metro Manila nand Lapuz. It was to be pro- After Kabisera, Ronwal- hista the debut film of Cannes Film Festival. Ronwaldo was duced by Lapuz’ alma mater Holy do went back to Pampanga winning director Brillante Men- nominated as Best Actor. He is Angel University. Incidentally, it to shoot the film Laut about doza. The film won a Golden also nominated in the Best Actor was also Lapuz who offered the the Sama D’Laut in Mabala- Leopard at the Locarno for a Foreign Language Film at Masahista role to Coco wayback cat. The film is directed by International Film Festival and the International Filmmaker Fes- in December 2003. It was Co- Louie Ignacio. This time, gave Coco the Young Critics tival of World Cinema in London. co’s manager Ihman Esturco who Ronwaldo is the love interest Circle Best Performer award Prior to being Coco Martin, looked for a producer and at the of GMA artist Gabbi Lopez. for that year. same time the chance to launch Their co-stars include Barbie and ended Forteza, Jak Roberto, Ana up a winning director, and as we Capri and . ...It was Coco’s always say, the rest is history. From Pampanga, Ron- manager The Ari team went to meet waldo travelled all the way Ihman Coco in his house and discussed to Iloilo for one of his two Esturco who the role for his brother. At first 2016 Cinemalaya Indepen- looked for a pro- Coco, was reluctant but he was dent Film Festival movies convinced by the team including Tuos directed by Derick ducer and at the Lapuz, writer/executive producer Cabrido. He portrays the same time the Robby Tantingco and newbie di- role of the ardent suitor of chance to launch rector Carlo Enciso Catu, a 20 year Barbie Forteza, the grand- old HRM student of the university. daughter of Superstar Nora Brillante Mendo- Ronwaldo stayed in Angeles City Aunor. This time, Ronwaldo za and ended up for one week during the shoot of had to learn Kinaray’A which a winning direc- the film. Before that, he spent sev- is the language in the film. eral days for acting workshop with The last film that Ronwal- tor, and as we the staff and Kapampangan actors. do shot in 2015 is his biggest always say, the After the shooting of the film, role to date. Another Cine- his manager asked Ronwaldo to malaya entry, Eduardo Roy rest is history. audition for some roles in indie Jr.’s Pamilya Ordinaryo is movies. Ronwaldo was fortu- about a young couple who nate to be cast in some of them. lives on the street and lost First in line was a role in a Nora their one month old baby to Martin

a stranger. Ronwaldo was very excited Which of the five indies is his favorite? just one house but several, side by side when he shot the film because it was ex- “I can’t pick one because I like my on a huge compound somewhere in Fair- citing because there was a lot of running roles in all of them,” said Ron. “In Ari, view, Quezon City, where all the family on the streets of Manila. Hasmine Killip is I play a high school student who gets members live. the young wife of Ronwaldo in the movie. oriented in Kapampangan culture through “That’s what Kuya has been reminding Here is my brief chat with Ronwaldo. poetry. In Tuos, I am the love interest of me -— to save,” said Ron. “My earnings Barbie Forteza. Our dialogue is in Kina- go straight to the bank. It’s Kuya who Will Ron, like Coco, graduate to main- ray-a so I have a tough time memorizing keeps my passbook. He gives me a stream films or perhaps star in a soap? my lines. In Laut, I am the boyfriend of weekly allowance.” “Not so soon,” said Ron. “Gusto ko po Gabbi Garcia. Our dialogue is a mix of Coco is the eldest of five children. Ron munang mahasa ng husto ang pag-arte Tagalog and Sama D’laut. In Kabisera, I is the fourth and youngest among the ko kagaya ng kuya ko na matagal muna play one of Nora’s children; our dialogue boys. bago nag-TV at lumabas sa mainstream. is in Tagalog. And in Pamilya Ordinaryo, How is Coco as a brother? I’m happy doing indies even if the talent I play a snatcher. My son is kidnapped “Mabait po at saka mapagmahal sa fee is not really that big because I get a and the story revolves around my search aming mga kapatid.” chance to do various roles.” for him.” Any dream roles for you? His dream is to do a movie with his “Yun pong papel ko sa Pamilya Ordi- Any pointers/reminders from his Kuya Kuya Coco. naryo, dream role ko yun. Yung batang Coco? “Idol ko si Kuya. kalye na snatcher. Madami po kasing “He told me that I should be fully I heard that there’s a plan but I’m not takbuhan sa kalsada. Dahil nagawa ko prepared before I try TV. I don’t want to sure kung matutuloy.” na yun, sana isang pelikula na magka- let him down.” From his earnings, Coco has built not kasama kami ng kuya ko.” visit myFmagazine.com for updates and extras

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