Volume XXXVIII No. 12 December 2020 Montreal, QC www.filipinostar.org 'V-Day': First COVID-19 vaccines

Rachel AielloOttawa News Bureau a.m. In that province, vaccinations also OanlinedProdumce @racihaniello Cionstact tered in Canada began at the Maimonides Geriatric Jonathan Forani CTVNews.ca Writer Centre in Montreal. That province was @jforani Contact set to receive 1,950 initial doses. OTTAWA -- The first COVID-19 “You will hear the emotion in vaccines were injected into the arms of my voice, because this is a very big day Canadians on Monday, a historic for us today," said Quebec Health moment some have dubbed “V-Day,” Minister Christian Dubé, at a press as the country enters a new phase of conference outside of Maimonides the ongoing fight against the novel Geriatric Centre in Montreal. coronavirus. The first vaccine given in In Ontario and Quebec, the first Ontario went to personal support shots were administered to a small worker Anita Quidangen. She received group of prioritized people on Monday, her shot at the Michener Institute, part after Pfizer-BioNTech’s initial shipments of the University Health Network in of doses landed on Sunday night. Toronto, donning scrubs and a face This week, 14 sites across the mask. Camera crews were on-hand to 10 provinces will be receiving Canada’s capture the moment, carried live on TV, initial 30,000 doses, as the country’s at 12:03 p.m. EST. largest and most logistically complex "Thank you very much… "I’m mass-immunization campaign kicks off. excited," Quidangen said to applause “I'm very pleased with how this Quebec Health Minister Christian Dube greets Maimonides CHSLD from colleagues. is unfolding,” said the top military resident Gloria Lallouz after she received a first dose of COVID-19 She was one of five front-line general who is leading the rollout from vaccine in Montreal, on Monday, December 14, 2020. THE CANADIAN workers from the Rekai Centre—the PRESS/Paul Chiasson the Public Health Agency of Canada, who the virus has hit hardest in this Canada’s first recipient of a first multilingual, non-profit nursing Maj.-Gen. Dany Fortin on Monday country: staff and residents of long- COVID-19 vaccine was 89-year-old home in Canada—to be given the first afternoon. term care homes as well as frontline Gisele Levesque, a resident at the chance to receive some of that The landmark vaccination health care staff treating COVID-19 Saint-Antoine long-term care home in province’s initial 6,000 doses. effort is focusing first on the people patients. Quebec City. She got her shot at 11:25 See Page 4 “V-Day”: First Covid 19 Electoral College

President-elect Biden officially 270 Electoral College votes needed to areceivfedftihermmajority sof EleBctorail dwin ethe pnresidenwcy justibn efore 5:30 College votes on Monday, further p.m. ET Monday, when California's 55 solidifying his victory even though the electors cast their ballots. outcome of the election has been After the process concluded, known for weeks. Biden had 306 votes to Trump's 232. Why it matters: The Electoral The votes will still need to be certified College result affirms Biden as the next by a joint session of Congress on Jan. president after weeks of President 6 overseen by Vice President Mike Trump's false accusations that the Pence, where he will announce the election was stolen from him, dozens winner. of failed legal challenges from the Trump said in November he Trump campaign, and protests would leave office if the Electoral threatening the safety of states' electors. See Page 4 Electoral College Lisa Hamm came out to support the electors at the Michigan State Biden officially reached the Capitol in Lansing.Credit...Brittany Greeson for The New York Times

www.filipinostar.org 2 December 2020 The North American Filipino Star racism, police brutality, inequities in the have too often been reduced or ignored. From the Publisher’s desk justice system, homelessness and While it is essential to cut waste within poverty. These social problems have health systems, this pandemic been in the news from time to time but highlights the need to have adequate Lessons we shall their solutions appear to be more capacity to address and tackle a crisis. never forget from the complex. It is difficult to know when It is also a reminder of the strategic society can be completely transformed importance of publicly accountable global pandemic in our time. health systems, underpinned by During this period in our investment in people and technologies. Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi history, we have been made more We must continue to build upon the aware of these lingering social issues. lessons learned so far from the Lately, we have also learned about the management of COVID-19 and adjust we here for? What have we done with chronic negligence suffered by our our approaches to this pandemic, and our lives? What do we yet wish to do if seniors due to manpower shortage in to other future health and environmental given the opportunity? Who is truly our long term care institutions. It still crises, accordingly.’ important in our lives? What is it that we remains to be seen if government Obviously, there are many truly cherish? The pandemic leads us to policies will change to respond to some important lessons we have learned from some painful insights: If we know who is of these issues that require immediate the pandemic, on a personal level as truly important to us and what we truly attention. well as in the social, political, economic, cherish, then why have we spent so little On the global scale, we have emotional or mental health levels. But of our lives pursuing these things?’ recognized that all countries must work the question remains - are we all truly The pandemic has certainly together to find solutions to the dangers capable of learning and responding given us deeper insights into the of the spread of any disease, the appropriately to all these opportunities The Covid 19 global pandemic meaning of life as well as our roles in degradation of our environment, and of changing old behaviours in order to is a huge challenge to human existence society. Our perspective on the new poverty, not only in third world countries improve our chances of survival on this that has revealed the weaknesses of our normal encourages us to make but also in our own backyard. Evidently, planet? institutions. Its impact on our world is fundamental changes in our behaviour we know that these problems exist even It has been known for some powerfully described by Dennis Snower, as well as in our institutions. These before the pandemic but the time that our environment is in danger President of the Global Solutions changes require not only a benevolent inadequacy of our responses and the from global warming. Do we have to Initiative in his opening address at the leadership but also civic minded urgency to find their solutions are more wait until its effects are here to destroy Global Solutions Summit 2020 : citizenship. Moreover, articles written acutely felt than ever before. our lives like the virus before heeding ‘We are confronted with the true about the pandemic show the different An international body’s the warnings of our scientists? uncertainty of human existence and the and varying degrees of sufferings research on the global responses to the For the sake of our common true vulnerability of human life. How caused by the pandemic. Those who pandemic has presented a convincing welfare, let us hope that we can learn often have so many of us believed that are affluent seem to cope better as they argument that health is wealth and that these lessons, and be able to rebuild we are supreme masters of the world have all the means to stay home without an adequately funded our broken economy as well as take around us? comfortably without worrying about healthcare system we are not prepared the necessary steps to meet the How often have we as food and other basic necessities of life to answer any crisis as can be gleaned challenges of unpredictable events that researchers ignored the uncertainty of while those who have limited means from the conclusion of the report: may happen anytime just like the Covid our existence, mistaking it for face an uncertain future. “Now that SARS-CoV-2 has 19 pandemic, the first of its kind in a probabilities generated by our statistical Although our political leaders become a pandemic with close to five century. models? How often have we ignored our have taken measures to help the million cases and over 300,000* deaths *Latest report as of Dec. 15, 2020: vulnerability by pretending that we are in unemployed, small businesses, frontline as a result of the virus, the case for Authorities in 217 countries and control of our destinies? The Covid-19 workers, refugees, and others directly investing in health systems, human territories have reported about 72.9 pandemic shows us how wrong we affected by the pandemic, there are still resources, and health technologies is million Covid 19 cases and 1.6 million were. other problems that common people clear. It is also easy to see that in the deaths since China reported its first We are brought face to face with must constantly face even when the past decade, austerity policies have cut cases to the World Health Organization the most basic questions of life. What are pandemic is over such as systemic investments in health and these systems (WHO) in December 2019. Legault 1-on-1: Quebec Premier reflects on

Adam Kovac end of the tunnel with the vaccine we CpTVaNewns Modntreeal Dimgital Reipocrter , Bill 101 and racism in sQtartedugivieng tobdaye, so cwe will need a Published Monday, December 14, few months to make sure we vaccinate 2020 8:22PM EST people in Quebec, but in the Last Updated Tuesday, December 15, meantime, the virus is strong. I'm 2020 10:38AM EST asking the population to be careful.” MONTREAL -- Further During the lengthy interview, lockdown restrictions are coming to Legault also touched on other the province of Quebec, but Premier subjects, such as racism in Quebec, Francois Legault would not elaborate the future of Bill 101 and his on what those would be. relationship with the province's In a lengthy one-on-one minority communities. interview with CTV Montreal anchor Mutsumi Takahashi, Legault said the holiday season presented a unique Language course opportunity to prevent the further spread of COVID-19. The stricter schedules for lockdown measures will be unveiled Premier François Legault being interviewed by Mutsumi Takashi, during a press conference on Tuesday. Online classes Monday, December 14, 2020. “The opportunity we have limits, from being overwhelmed. actions taken. Private or Semi- during the holiday season is, the two “Right now, I worry about the “Transparency is very key and places we have a lot of contagion is next few weeks... in our hospitals. They I've tried since March to give all the Private Tutoring schools and companies, including already have important waiting lists for information I have to the population. If retail stores,” he said. “We already all kinds of surgeries. That worries we talk about restrictions, what I've Information have schools and construction closed me.” said since the beginning if we listen to for two weeks. So how can we add to Legault defended his the recommendations of public health that to make sure we curb the government's record on the pandemic. but my government makes the contagion?” While there has been public confusion decisions,” he said. 514-485-7861 The premier said his largest on the government's messaging “After 10 months, some people Gilmore College concern is keeping the province's surrounding its actions, he said that are tired of these restrictions, but it's a hospitals, already stretched to their ultimately, he takes responsibility for all small minority. We see the light at the International December 2020 The North American Filipino Star 3 Biden after Electoral College affirms win: 'The rule of law, oBy EuricrBraCdneor, CnNN stitution and the will of the people prebyvTraumiplaenddhi's supporters, who Updated 8:26 PM ET, Mon December have sought to throw out legitimately 14, 2020 cast ballots, on state and local President-elect Joe Biden elections officials. declared Monday, hours after the "It is my sincere hope we never Electoral College made his victory again see anyone subjected to the over President Donald Trump official, kinds of threats and abuse we saw in that "the rule of law, our Constitution this election. It's simply and the will of the people prevailed" unconscionable," Biden said. over Trump's efforts to undo the He sought to move past results of the election. Trump's denials of reality, pointing to "The flame of democracy was record-breaking voter turnout that he lit in this nation a long time ago. And said "should be celebrated, not we now know nothing, not even a attacked." pandemic or an abuse of power, can The President-elect noted extinguish that flame," Biden said. more than 81 million votes being cast In a speech Monday night in Delaware, in favor of himself and Vice President- Biden launched the most direct and elect Kamala Harris, the most in history detailed defense of his victory yet -- and 7 million more than Trump and and the harshest condemnation of Vice President Mike Pence received. Trump's flailing efforts to change President-elect Joe Biden speaks about the Electoral College vote Biden also noted that he won reality. certification process at Monday in Wilmington, Delaware. GETTY IMAGES by the same electoral vote count that He catalogued the failures of Republicans have indicated they will Lawsuits from Trump and his allies Trump received in 2016, saying that it Trump's campaign and his allies in object to the results in key states, they were rejected resoundingly in state was a "clear victory" then and now. state and federal courts and state can do little more than delay the and federal courts. "And yet, none of The President-elect also laid legislatures, and recounts that have process during a joint session of this could stop baseless claims about out the work that will dominate the not substantially changed vote tallies. Congress on January 6. Then, Biden the legitimacy of the results," Biden early days of his administration: the He called efforts by Trump and his will be inaugurated at noon on January said. battle against the coronavirus supporters to use the courts to 20. His harshest words were pandemic, including distributing overturn the election result "so extreme Biden declared it time to "turn directed at Trump and his Republican vaccines and slowing its spread as we've never seen it before." the page, to unite, to heal." allies -- including 17 state attorneys those vaccines become available, and "Thankfully, a unanimous "In this battle for the soul of general and 126 members of Congress rebuilding an economy battered by the Supreme Court immediately and America, democracy prevailed," Biden who backed a baseless Texas lawsuit pandemic. completely rejected this effort," Biden said. "We the people voted. Faith in our seeking to undo other states' election "There is urgent work in front of said. institutions held. The integrity of our results. all of us," he said. "Getting the Biden's speech came after the elections remains intact. And so, now it "This legal maneuver was an pandemic under control to getting the Electoral College had cast 306 votes is time to turn the page. To unite. To effort by elected officials and one nation vaccinated against this virus. for Biden and 232 for Trump, heal." group of states to try to get the Delivering immediate economic help cementing Biden's win. The Electoral But he also unleashed on Supreme Court to wipe out the votes of so badly needed by so many College votes will now be sent to Trump and Republicans who have more than 20 million Americans in Americans who are hurting today -- Congress to be counted formally next attempted to thwart the democratic other states and to hand the and then building our economy back month. Though some House process in a way he had not before. presidency to a candidate who lost the better than it ever was." Electoral College, lost the popular vote Subscription request mail to: and lost each and every one of the CNN's Sarah Mucha and Jeremy Herb 7159 ch. de la Cote des Neiges states whose votes they were trying to contributed to this report. Montreal, QC H3R 2M2 reverse. It's a position so extreme, Name: ______we've never seen it before," he said. When winter comes, The President-elect, who Address: ______paused throughout his remarks several spring is not far behind. ______times to either cough or clear his Telephone: ______E-mail: ______throat, called it "a position that refused Behind the clouds, there to respect the will of the people, is a silver lining. refused respect the rule of law and 1 year 2 years refused to honor our Constitution." 12 issues $36 24 issues $60 He also condemned attacks “Let your hopes, not your hurts, shape your future.” Please issue cheque payable to: North American Filipino Star.

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W.G. Quiambao Fely Rosales Carino Zenaida F. Kharroubi Tagalog Columnist Society & Community Chief Editor News Publisher, April 1998-present Tony San Juan North American Filipino Star Toronto News Bert Abiera Founder-Publisher, Filipino Star Sam Kevin Nov. 1982- Nov. 97 Show Biz News & Layout Editor The opinions expressed by the writers and columnists do not necessarily reflect that of the management of the North American Filipino Star nor its editors.

www.filipinostar.org 4 The North American Filipino Star December 2020 From Page 1 “V-Day’’: First Covid 19 Monday. December, Canada is set to receive COVID Alert exposure notification app. Though the next round of 249,000 doses from Pfizer, after the “This is good news. But our “She has worked tirelessly to deliveries could be much larger. federal government secured an early fight against COVID-19 is not over,” he care for some of our most vulnerable, “There could be significantly first delivery just days ahead of Health wrote. “Now more than ever, let’s keep both throughout this pandemic and more than 30,000, but at this time I'm Canada’s authorization. The initial plan up our vigilance.” since her first days as a PSW in 1988. not prepared to speak to the exact was to see Canada’s vaccine effort kick Canadians should “double Anita has spent years rolling up her numbers… between now and the end off in earnest in January. down” in the coming weeks, as the sleeves to protect our province, and of the end of this month, we can have By the end of March Canada is vaccination programs are likely to face today, she didn't hesitate to find a new up to 219,000 additional doses. The set to receive four million total doses, a number of hurdles, Bogoch said. way to do so,” said Ontario Premier exact scheduled delivery remains to be which is enough to fully vaccinate two MODERNA APPROVAL NEXT? Doug Ford in a statement. finalized,” Fortin said Monday. million people, given it’s a two-shot The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is Federal Health Minister Patty Alberta Health Minister Tyler immunization process with the second not the COVID-19 panacea. Because Hajdu was in Montreal for the occasion, Shandro also signalled his province is needle administered 21 days following the vaccine’s requirements are and said the last nine months have bracing to get a much larger shipment the first. In total, Canada is set to particularly complicated, including the been traumatic for many Canadians, next week. Initial vaccinations are receive 20 million Pfizer doses. need to be stored at -70 C, initial doses particularly those who work in or have slated to begin in Alberta on Those being vaccinated this are not being distributed to Indigenous loved ones inside long-term care Wednesday, with calls being put in to week won't achieve the promised more communities or the territories. homes or other health-care facilities. the early recipients to schedule their than 90 per cent immunity until the The hope is that the Moderna “I know how worried and appointments. second week of January. vaccine candidate, which has yet to be anxious families and health-care Retired Canadian Armed The provinces have been approved by Health Canada but has workers are, all across the country,” she Forces Gen. Rick Hillier, who is leading tasked with keeping track of who has less complicated storage requirements, said. “So I see this as the first step Ontario’s COVID-19 vaccine task force, been vaccinated and ensuring they will be able to roll out to those forward into the light.” said that Monday marks the start of come back on time for their second communities soon. Sitting in specialized freezer what will be likely close to a year-long shot, but the federal government will Moderna’s vaccine candidate boxes, the doses left Europe for process to see everyone who wants to also be keeping track of the rates of is now the most advanced in Canada's Canada over the weekend, and Fortin be vaccinated able to do so. immunization. regulatory process, but there isn’t a said Monday he was not aware of any “We're all feeling, maybe just a PANDEMIC FAR FROM OVER date or estimate yet for when it may be issues with keeping the doses that little tiny sigh of relief now… maybe The big week finally comes given the green light. Provinces though, arrived so far at the extreme cold there is hope that we'll get out of this more than nine months after the World are preparing to be able to have access temperature required. incredible period that we've been Health Organization officially labelled to this vaccine option later this month. “Everything's going according through that's been so brutal on global SARS-COV-2 outbreaks a Anand said that the to plans,” he said. everybody,” said Hillier in an interview pandemic and Canadians first entered government is currently in talks with As of Monday evening there on CTV News Channel on Monday. lockdown amid a first wave of Moderna about receiving initial doses had been no reports of adverse Hillier said Ontario’s approach infections. Since then, infections early. reactions among the first Canadian is to hold on to half of the vials that have dipped and surged again. Health “We are in touch with our recipients of the vaccine. arrived so far, to secure them as the officials in Canada have confirmed suppliers every day, including Moderna, THOUSANDS VACCINATED BEFORE second dose to give to those who are more than 460,000 cases of COVID-19 and we are pressing for early deliveries 2021 getting vaccinated this week, three and close to 13,500 deaths as of of the doses pending Health Canada Over the course of the day weeks from now, rather than give them Monday. Worldwide, the novel regulatory approval,” said Anand in an more shipments from UPS, who the all out and hope the second round coronavirus has killed more than 1.6 interview with Evan Solomon on CTV’s pharmaceutical giant has contracted to arrives in time. million people. Question Period that aired Sunday. deliver the vaccines, have been arriving “We can't change the supply, I The Pfizer-BioNTech shots are Bogoch suggested that a at the other delivery sites across can't make every vaccine that we need the first of several vaccines expected to “mobile truck” operation could even Canada. At each, plans are in place to show up here on day one and put it into be on the market soon, according to administer a less complex vaccine like start vaccinating even more health-care the arm of somebody who needs it and experts, after record-breaking Moderna’s to people experiencing staff and long-term care home residents wants it, which is hopefully the vast development and production by homelessness in urban areas, but in the and their caregivers, on Tuesday and majority of the population here in scientists around the world. Americans meantime “we just have to work within continuing all week long. Ontario,” he said. began receiving Pfizer vaccines on the confines of the vaccine properties “We finally have a tool to Answering the most common Monday as well. that we have access to.” protect the residents, so it’s a great day Canada has signed deals with While this week is a promising for us,” said Lucie Tremblay, the questions about Pfizer's COVID- 19 vaccine seven vaccine manufactures, securing milestone during a long pandemic, director of nursing for CIUSSS West- While it’s the moment many more than 400 million doses of Canadians are a long way out from Central Montreal, in an interview on have been waiting for, infectious potential COVID-19 vaccines, should all “normal,” said Bogoch. CTV News Channel. “It’s the beginning disease specialist and Ontario vaccine trials pan out. “We’ll probably start to see a of the end of this awful illness. I think task force member Isaac Bogoch told “This is incredible stuff. We all lifting of these health restrictions when that for the last 10 months, everybody CTV’s Your Morning that this first batch know how horrible it’s been with the enough Canadians have had access to was under a lot of stress. We were is more like a “trial run” until more pandemic globally and of course here the vaccine,” he said. always afraid that the residents would shipments arrive in the coming days in Canada,” said Bogoch. The federal government is get the illness, we were afraid of losing and weeks. Doctors say 'long journey ahead' aiming to have all Canadians who want residents and we did, unfortunately.” “It’s a small initial batch,” said to be vaccinated receive their shots by According to federal to combat virus despite Pfizer Bogoch. “These [14] programs are vaccine approval the end of 2021. Procurement Minister Anita Anand, going to start. It’s going to take some But officials are still warning approximately 30,000 more doses are time for them to take off, but they are that “V-Day” excitement doesn’t mean With files from CTV Montreal and CTV expected to arrive next week, as the going to take off, and soon every the pandemic is over. On Sunday night, Toronto country’s supply will continue arriving in Canadian will be able to get access to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted stages. this and this terrible pandemic will that Canadians should continue “Canada is charting its path come to an end.” wearing masks, washing hands, forward towards recovery,” Anand said Between now and the end of avoiding gatherings and using the

didn’t vote for me, as I will for those Michigan's 16 remained with Biden would be for members of both From Page 1 Electoral College who did." after the state's House GOP speaker chambers of Congress to challenge College voted for Biden, but that it The big picture: Trump's legal said "we'd lose our country forever" if the certification of the Electoral College would have "made a mistake" because team and allies have repeatedly they swapped out electors. votes. "this election was a fraud." attempted to change the Electoral Arizona's 11 for Biden were Rep. Mo Brooks (R-Ala.) is What he's saying: "In this battle College's outcome. The Supreme cast at an undisclosed location due to plotting to contest the results from the for the soul of America, democracy Court last week rejected a long-shot escalating threats to the safety of the House and has a small group of allies. prevailed," Biden said in a televised lawsuit backed by Trump and over 120 electors. But the effort still has no public support remarks Monday evening. House Republicans seeking to Wisconsin's 10 were cast for in the Senate. "The flame of democracy was challenge the outcomes in key swing Biden after the state Supreme Court lit in this nation a long time ago. And states, including Georgia, ruled against the Trump effort last night Editor's note: This story was updated we now know that nothing — not even Pennsylvania, Michigan and for the third time this month. after all states finished voting. a pandemic —or an abuse of power — Wisconsin. Nevada's 6 went for Biden, can extinguish that flame," he added. Georgia's 16 electoral votes with votes cast over Zoom. "As I said through this campaign, I will Monday went for Biden, with a roll call The last shot Trump has at be a president for all Americans. I will overseen by Stacey Abrams. trying to sway the election results work just as hard for those of you who

www.filipinostar.org December 2020 The North American Filipino Star 5 Calgary city council requesting ‘clause’ declaring Santa an essential service

By Jodi Hughes Global News As per the motion, Santa Claus In a first for Calgary city council, and his reindeer will be masked and a special notice of motion was comply with physical distancing rules. introduced Tuesday requesting the The motion requests that this reporters Tuesday afternoon despite It is assumed strict and effective province of Alberta declare Santa Claus exemption also be granted by the their busy schedule, council members COVID-19 protocols must be in place at an essential service amid the ongoing government of Canada thereby making knew this was a matter that had to be the North Pole as zero cases have been COVID-19 crisis — thus allowing him to it easier for the man “with a belly like a addressed sooner rather than later. reported to date. visit homes throughout the city and bowlful of jelly” to complete his duties “This is absolutely critical. It A request was made to Old province on Christmas Eve. across the entire country. must be done today,” Nenshi said. “We Saint Nick for reaction to this motion, A motion was introduced by Along with milk, cookies and have to be able to fit this in in the North but no response has been received at Coun. Jeff Davison just after 1 p.m. and carrots for the reindeer, the motion Pole’s GPS work and the route the time this article was posted. was unanimously signed by council. suggests hand sanitizer also be left out planning.” This will be the final item for Santa in this most unusual year. The motion is expected to pass –With files from Adam Toy discussed for the year. Mayor Naheed Nenshi told Tuesday evening.

www.filipinostar.org December 2020 6 The North American Filipino Star William Barr Resigns After DOJ Throws

CThe aottornelydgeneralWhad saaid thtere er On Voter Fraud Claimmachinses but that “so far, we haven’t was a lack of evidence of any seen anything to substantiate that.” widespread voter fraud in the The White House has waged a presidential election, breaking with weekslong campaign to challenge the Donald Trump. results of the election in a half-dozen By Nick Visser,Ryan J. Reilly battleground states, but Trump has so Nina Golgowski, HuffPost US far lost every legal fight to reverse the President Donald Trump said vote in those locales and all six states Monday that Attorney General William have now certified their ballots. Each Barr had resigned, after the nation’s declared Biden the winner. top law enforcement official refused to Biden is set to be inaugurated back up discredited claims of on Jan. 20, and the Trump widespread fraud in the Nov. 3 election administration officially signed off on and reportedly worked to avoid public assistance for his transition last week disclosure of investigations into after resisting doing so for days. President-elect Joe Biden’s son. “You would think if you’re in Trump said in a tweet that he the FBI or Department of Justice, this is had “a very nice meeting” with Barr at the biggest thing you could be looking the White House, adding that “our Attorney General William Barr has been one of President Donald at,” the president said in a Nov. 29 relationship has been a very good Trump's staunchest allies interview with Fox News, alluding to one” and that Barr “has done an impact the outcome of the 2020 Barr over the Justice Department’s the idea that the Justice Department outstanding job!” presidential election came after weeks handling of investigations into Hunter might be “involved” in any election The president tweeted Barr’s of silence in which Trump spun out a Biden, Joe Biden’s son. The Biden malfeasance. “Where are they? I’ve not resignation letter, which says the public narrative about voter fraud that, transition team revealed news of a seen anything.” attorney general “will spend the next according to polls, left most probe related to Hunter Biden’s taxes Barr’s resignation may help week wrapping up a few remaining Republicans believing the election was on Dec. 9, but Barr was aware of him escape Trump’s practice of matters important to the Administration stolen investigations since at least this past punishing those who disagree with his and depart on December 23rd.” Barr used his resignation letter spring, The Wall Street Journal lies about the election. Deputy Attorney General Jeff Rosen is to butter up Trump about the reported. The lack of public disclosure The president fired Chris set to become acting attorney general. president’s “unprecedented about the Hunter Biden investigations Krebs, the nation’s top cybersecurity A Justice Department achievements” for the American was not unusual ― typically, the official, last month after the office he spokeswoman did not immediately people, which Barr said were even Justice Department keeps such led, the Cybersecurity and respond to a request for comment. more impressive because he faced matters private before an election to Infrastructure Security Agency, said it While some of Barr’s recent “relentless, implacable resistance” avoid the impression that it’s trying to found no evidence of votes being from opponents behind what the influence the results. actions ― like declining to turn the deleted, lost or compromised in any Justice Department into a direct arm of attorney general called a “partisan Trump retweeted a statement way. onslaught ... in which no tactic, no on Saturday saying that if that report Trump’s presidential campaign ― Barr’s predecessor, Attorney have angered Trump, Barr still matter how abusive and deceitful, was was true, Barr should be fired. The General Jeff Sessions, was also forced managed to bend the Justice out of bounds.” The letter also president added: “A big out amid the president’s displeasure. Department to Trump’s will since he referenced what Barr described as disappointment!” Trump regularly complained that took over as attorney general in 2019, “frenzied and baseless accusations of Previously, Barr had refuted Sessions hadn’t done enough to stop just as special counsel Robert collusion with Russia.” Trump’s repeated claims that the 2020 the special counsel investigation into Mueller’s investigation into Russian Barr had reportedly discussed election was stolen from him. Barr his 2016 campaign’s ties to Russia. interference in the 2016 election was staying on as attorney general if Trump instead told The Associated Press on In the AP interview earlier this coming to a close. Barr issued a letter won his reelection bid. Shortly after the Dec. 1 that he had not uncovered any month, Barr also addressed the Trump that misled the public about the president’s defeat, Barr began evidence of fraud or actions that would campaign’s use of the court system to findings of that investigation weeks discussing a potential resignation with change the results of the election. He try to overturn things it didn’t “like,” before a fuller version of the special his associates, one source told The became the highest-level official to saying there needed to be a counsel report was released, Washington Post. Another source told rebut Trump’s ongoing effort to foundation to believe a crime had been permanently impacting how the report The New York Times in early overturn the results as states certified committed before going to court. was received by the public. Mueller, December that Barr was leaving the 306-232 electoral vote count. “There’s a growing tendency who had known Barr for years, wrote because he believed he had “To date, we have not seen to use the criminal justice system as an extraordinary letter calling out Barr completed the work that he had set out fraud on a scale that could have sort of a default fix-all, and [if] people for creating public confusion about the to do with the Justice Department. affected a different outcome in the don’t like something, they want the actual findings of the report. In the month after the election, election,” he told AP. Barr added that Department of Justice to come in and Even Barr’s belated Trump repeatedly expressed the departments of Justice and ‘investigate,’” the attorney general announcement that he’d found no frustration with his attorney general. Homeland Security had investigated said. widespread voter fraud that would On Dec. 12, Trump raged at other claims of tampered voting A quarter of Quebec's sugar shacks have closed

MpONeTRErALm-- AaQunebeec tnraditionlyis ,losae ansentiretyhear oef incoimne," edxplauined sstervringythe itrsadition'adl mreaol wiwll havne iMninistrgy of:To'urisrm ein thpe lasot fewrdt ays by currently going through a dark period. Stephanie Laurin, author of the study and disappeared leaving 53 survivors." it reads. the Association of Agrotourism and A quarter of the 200 sugar shacks owner of Chalet des érables, a sugar "It's like saying that we make wine Gourmet Tourism of Quebec. in Quebec that serve traditional Quebecois shack in Sainte-Anne-des-Plaines, in the in Italy, but that we can no longer go to Minister of Tourism Caroline meals are no longer in business and Laurentians, about 45 minutes north of vineyards to taste it," said Laurin. She said Proulx's spokesperson Sandra O'Connor another quarter of these establishments Montreal. the reality will be very sad for Quebec "to said that the cabinet "had the opportunity have changed their facilities forever to To make the picture a little have this loss on the conscience." to discuss with the organization" and that it produce syrup only, a new study revealed. bleaker, among the hundred sugar shacks Laurin, who is also at the head of intends to evaluate the findings of the The sugar shacks that had to still in operation, 16 plan to produce only the Association des Salles de Reception et study. close did so "at the worst time" last season, syrup and 37 plan to go out of business by Érablières du Québec (ASEQC), believes The industry is asking the ministry on the eve of the start of their season, April if nothing changes, the report reads. that governments should inject liquidity to act posthaste. when the fridges were full of cane The study's conclusion is into these companies and would like to marinades, sugar pies and a host of other devastating for the tourist "Without the have a clear picture of what will happen traditional cooked foods. 2021 sugar seasons and without direct next. See Page 7 Sugar shack "To close a sugar season is to help, 75 per cent of the sugar shacks Laurin's study was sent to the

www.filipinostar.org December 2020 The North American Filipino Star 7 Quebec heads into 18-day lockdown; non-essential bAdaum Ksovaic nesses to close from Dec. 25 to Jan. 1vac1cines for the novel coronavirus CTV News Montreal Digital Reporter administed a day earlier, the province @AKovacCTV Contact had entered "the home stretch." Selena Ross “We believe it's a plan that CTV News Montreal Digital Reporter gives us every possible chance to help @seleross Contact healthcare workers who have had a Published Monday, December 14, very difficult 10 months," he said. "It 2020 9:10PM EST gives us every chance to break the MONTREAL -- Quebecers may second wave by Jan. 11 so we can have seen the first glimpse of the light start to really re-open. And it will allow at the end of the COVID-19 tunnel on us to not overload our hospitals.” Monday but they're also heading into a Don Sheppard, a professor at new lockdown meant to interrupt McGill University's department of transmission of COVID-19. microbiology and immunology, said a Non-essential businesses will lockdown of at least four weeks is be closed across the province from needed, including of schools. Dec. 25 through Jan. 11, Premier “The lockdown needs to target François Legault announced in a the thing that we know is important and children at home to do so. join a family bubble, among many Tuesday press conference, in a that is groups of people in an indoor As Legault spoke, 959 people other detailed rules. renewed lockdown aimed at breaking setting, period,” he said. “I think the were hospitalized with COVID-19 in Rules around outdoor the second wave of COVID-19. time has passed, unfortunately, for half Quebec. activities will also be eased during that Legault said the province's measures. We know that schools were “That's very difficult, it puts a time as a kind of compromise, Legault overloaded healthcare system and its the earliest part of the transmission lot of pressure on hospitals,” he said. said, including allowing some downhill workers desperately need the numbers and are still responsible for up to 30 Businesses allowed to stay skiing, opening the Montreal Botanical to come down. per cent of outbreaks.” open will include grocery stores, Gardens and other measures. Outdoor The lockdown, which Legault With holiday shopping season pharmacies, garages and pet stores, activities will be restricted to a dubbed “the holiday break,” will also here, Sheppard said he wants to see Legault said. maximum of eight people, plus a see the province's elementary schools restrictions applied to stores. He said that in response to coach or instructor. have their holiday break extended to “The most common place concerns that big-box retail giants like "The virus is everywhere in Jan. 11. Previously, elementary these outbreaks happen is among the Costco would unfairly benefit -- they Quebec, everywhere," said Quebec's schools were supposed to re-open on workers, not the shoppers,” he said. sell groceries and medication, as well Public Health Director, Dr. Horacio Jan. 4. CORRECTION: A previous as many non-essential retail items -- Arruda, in the press conference. High schools will have an version of this article said high school Legault said these stores wouldn't be "The holiday period will be a extended holiday break between Dec. will close between Dec. 17 and Jan. 4. allowed to sell non-essential items kind of cocooning period, but with a lot 17 to Jan. 11. High school will close until Jan. 11. during that time. of outdoor activities, and that's what The province's daycares will - With files from CTV News Montreal's Single people and those who we're recommending." remain open but Legault called on all Rob Lurie. live alone will also have permission to Legault said that with the first parents who are able to keep their Paiement owns the AKabane maple grove, From Page 6 Sugar shack in Saint-Esprit, in Lanaudière. The minister's response shows a "It's past midnight," said Josee flagrant lack of compassion, he said. Lafrance, who manages two large-scale "You, you are next to the boat, you sugar shacks in Monteregie: La Grillade, in are drowning," he said. "Instead of sending Saint-Alphonse-de-Granby, and La you a buoy, he sends you a brick." Goudrelle, in Mont-Saint-Grégoire. Paiement ultimately did not follow The sugar season is usually the minister's advice. He converted part of planned as early as October with his business to an online store and used a preparations made for homemade fruit truck to do street food. These changes ketchup, beets and pickles. allow it to generate some income and to "All of this preparation is done employ employees. when the vegetables are at their peak, at "We are on the ventilator," he their full potential," said Lafrance. "At added. home, we peel them by hand and usually Maple grove owners say they chop no less than 2,700 kilograms of were "insulted and hurt" by the minister's beets. And then, they marinate and response to their "cry from the heart" which macerate to have a production that is is not just for the sugar shacks, but the ready for opening when the maples start to entire industry. drip." The sugar shack's precarious The future looks so bleak this year situation is very worrying in Montérégie, so beets can rest easy. Not a single where several of them are concentrated. vegetable saw the shadow of a knife. "It's a market that is extremely Lafrance's business has already recorded lucrative and important for the region, $1 million in losses, or 96 per cent of its which generates a lot of tourist activity," turnover.. said Mario Leblanc, general Manager of Its location is a reflection of its sector. Tourisme Montérégie. Maple syrup tasting table at a sugar shack in Quebec Sugar shacks have lost more than 90 per He wants public health to cent of their income, according to a survey announce that it will allow the conducted with the ASEQC. establishments to be allowed to open for Sugar shack owners still have not the end of February, beginning of March. digested Minister of Economy and Innovation Pierre Fitzgibbon's response to -- this report by The Canadian Press was a call for help launched last spring by the first published Dec. 12, 2020 CLEANERS NEEDED wife of an owner. Daytime or evening (after 6pm) "I suggest that if your issue is related to your mortgage to consider Advertise in the North office cleaning 5 days per week protecting yourself from your creditors," the minister wrote among others in an American Filipino Star (Monday to Friday) email exchange the Canadian Press Call 514-485-7861 obtained a copy of. or e-mail Car required, $19 per hour. Call "As a good Quebecer, that means: 'Go bankrupt. Thank you. Good [email protected] day,'" said Frédéric Paiement in protest. to receive our press kit. Michael 514 624-3437 www.filipinostar.org December 2020 8 The North American Filipino Star by the U.S. Environmental Protection the 1970s. Analytical chemistry has Agency. come a long way since then. No federal guidelines for the Scientists are becoming increasingly chemicals exist. Alberta, Quebec and concerned about other similar Ontario have set recommended levels, chemicals that aren't on the list, she ENVIRONMENT but Galarneau said only Ontario's are said. based on the effects on human health. "Everywhere you look, it "(Ontario's) guideline is seems people are coming to the same exceeded almost everywhere we conclusion. There are other looked in Canada," Galarneau said. compounds beyond those 16 that "The exceedances in some areas are make toxicity, and our measurements well over an order of magnitude." and models should probably expand The increasing size and to incorporate those." severity of wildfires is a big reason The paper points out that why the levels haven't changed concentrations of toxins in the air despite improved industrial emissions, increase by factors of 1.4 to 6.2 when she said. the number of compounds tested for "We would normally have is expanded. called those natural, but now forest The 16 compounds in this fires are seen to be increasing in study became priorities because of frequency and severity because of their association with cancer. climate change. There's now a Galarneau said cancer isn't the only On this Saturday, Sept. 5, 2020 file photo, an air tanker drops fire retardant (human-caused) component." health danger from the chemicals on on a hillside wildfire in Yucaipa, Calif. (AP Photo/Ringo H.W. Chiu) Research has found that the expanded list. They are thought to climate change contributes to bigger, have effects on the lung and liver as Wildfires take over from hotter fires by drying out forests and well. extending the fire season. "We know less than we do for industry as major source of Other increased sources of the 16, but there's a body of evidence the chemicals are increased vehicle that is growing and identifying toxic cancer-causing air toxins: study emissions as well as residential wood- effects associated with them," she Bob Weber, The Canadian Press Galarneau. burning. The contributions of those said. "Some of these other (chemicals) Published Monday, December 14, "Those big industrial point sources vary widely from place to are also implicated in non-cancer 2020 2:18PM EST sources have been reduced to a very place. health outcomes." Wildfires have taken over from small fraction of the total," she says. Vehicles account for less than The study is the fourth in a industry as a major source of a group "The largest (remaining) source by far 10 per cent of emissions nationally, series of recent research publications of cancer-causing chemical toxins in is the natural emissions from forest but in Toronto they can reach 50 per on Canada's air quality. Two more are the air, Environment Canada says. fires." cent or even higher. due and a final summary report is to The first national assessment The levels are still high Galarneau warned that her be released in the coming months. of polycyclic aromatic compounds in enough in many places across the research isn't the whole picture. Her more than 25 years has found that air country to exceed health guidelines, team looked at only 16 different This report by The Canadian Press has improved around aluminum and the assessment found. compounds, a list that dates back to was first published Dec. 14, 2020. steel plants. But wildfires and vehicles Polycyclic aromatic have stepped in to keep average compounds are created during Do you have the money to buy a Source that offers no-cost career concentrations at about the same burning of everything from oil to wood franchise or invest in a startup? If you transitioning (but like a franchise level that they were in the 1990s, says to cigarettes. Many are carcinogenic don’t, is borrowing from, say, the Small consultant, the coaches receive referral federal researcher Elisabeth and are considered priority pollutants Business Administration an option? fees). Do you have any experience It is admittedly very tricky to find business from scratch — perhaps doing what you want to do? It can be the right career coach. There are a lot of something online, a garden store, a pet much easier to obtain financing and a them out there, and because so often kennel or, sure, a restaurant that can much safer bet to invest in a franchise if your success is due to whether your compete with Wayback Burgers. You you do not have years of experience in personalities mesh, it’s impossible to say could start a nonprofit or start doing the field you want to transition to. whether the one you pick will be a great volunteer work that you’ve always In any case, you can probably one or kind of a dud. Do your research thought of doing. Take up a hobby. figure out a lot of this within a few before you actually hire a coach Clean out the garage. minutes if you haven’t already. But if you because rates can vary widely. Whatever your next move is, I are thinking about a new chapter, these Start getting out there. know we can all agree that it should be are questions you need to know the Franchises offer “discovery several steps forward instead of back, answers to. days” where you can go to the and while I don’t have a lot of good Talk to a professional. franchisor’s headquarters and talk to the advice about starting a hobby or This is what you should do executives at the brand. Due to the growing rhododendrons or azaleas, I do when you get to that step where you pandemic, many franchisors are have a lot to say about what you need to know you want to do something and you currently offering virtual discovery days do if you’re thinking about starting a feel confident you can take on this next where you meet with key players business — whether it's a franchise or challenge, but you need some guidance. through videoconferencing. It isn’t the Making A Career not. A few people you might want to consider same thing, but you will get the Change During Take stock of where you are in talking to include: information you’re looking for. your life . • A franchise consultant: Often, I’ve heard that some people The Pandemic You may be in your early 20s this consultant works a little like an agent who want to start their own business but Bill Chemero is Chief Development Officer without the income to invest in starting a would for an actor or writer — or a real are lacking experience sometimes take a (CDO) of Wayback Burgers, one of the world’s business. You may be near retirement estate agent when you're selling a part-time job in the field they’re looking fastest growing fast casual burger franchises. and unsure whether you want to take on house. They get paid by the franchisor to create their company in. For instance, The pandemic has been scary, running a business. Either way, if you after you end up buying a franchise. If if you want to start a coffeehouse, you and it’s overtaken our lives, but it’s also know that you would bring a lot to a you’re serious about franchising, that might get a part-time job at a the perfect time to start a new chapter. business, you might want to think about might be one way to go. The coffeehouse first to get a sense of I realize for some people — teaming up with a partner who can International Franchise Association is an whether this is really living the dream or certainly anybody who has been sick complement your skill set and offset any excellent resource (Wayback Burgers is you just really like the smell of coffee. with the virus — my words will ring shortcomings. a member), and you may want to start Starting a new chapter in life hollow right now (as they should). But for Even if you feel that you are in researching franchise consultants and isn’t easy — at all — and I’m not trying to many people — those who have lost their that sweet spot — with plenty of income franchises there. make it out to be. But a career change is jobs, those who are working but are to invest in a franchise or to start your • A career coach: You may want a series of steps. Even in a global hating their jobs, and those who just feel own business, plenty of experience, or to try looking at the International Coach pandemic, you can start taking those like they should be doing something more time on your hands than normal Federation website or the Professional first few steps now. When the pandemic different than what they’re currently — you may still want to take on a Association of Resume Writers and passes, thanks to the steps you took doing — I think the time to be planning partner. Running a business is hard Career Coaches. You could try LinkedIn. when you were sheltering in place, you your next move is now. work. There is a national group of career won’t be walking toward your dreams. But your new move could be coaches called the Entrepreneur’s You’ll be running. anything. Maybe you start your own Examine your assets and experience . www.filipinostar.org December 2020 The North American Filipino Star 9

and a high-school mathematics and As a certified school teacher, science teacher then in Toronto, she handled students in all grades from Filipino-Canadian administrator encouraged her to become one. Not to Kindergarten up to high school levels in mentors needy high school students mention too, her mother, now deceased, all subjects. She is an experienced By: Tony A. San Juan, OCT-Retired who was a teacher in the Philippines guidance counselor and a teacher- Filipino-Canadian Fermer advised her to follow in their footsteps, extraordinaire, according to her peers. Santos, a long-serving educator and which she did happily and progressively. Working as a school vice-principal for school administrator in Toronto, has A graduate of the University of many years, she was assigned to been in the forefront of helping and Waterloo with a degree in BA elementary and high schools on the mentoring high school students quietly Psychology, major in Educational Board. As the school's vice head at ACI, but productively, including those of Psychology, Fermer also completed she coordinates with the Collegiate Filipino descent. As a professional Certificate courses in Brain and Learning Institute's Committee on Achievement teacher, she is passionately engaged in at Harvard University and MIT in the that includes assessment, evaluation, guiding Filipino students to meet U.S.A. She completed her high school and reporting. She also collaborates schooling challenges and to achieve studies at Quezon City Science High with the school team in addressing academic success for their career School before immigrating to Canada in issues involving mental health and well- pathways and future endeavours, as the 70s and in Canada, she received her being, equity, and anti-oppression. Her well. Currently, Ms. F. Santos is the Vice- Grade 13 Secondary School Diploma other school administrative Principal of Agincourt Collegiate in from TDSB's Harbord Collegiate responsibilities include administration Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario. Institute. At that time, only Grade 13 liaison with Scarborough-Agincourt’s Formerly, she served as Vice-Principal of graduates are allowed to pursue a Malvern Collegiate Institute, both university degree program in Ontario. See Page 13 Filipino-Canadian secondary schools are in the Toronto Fermer Santos District School Board publicly- Philippines and immigrate, she supported school system. promised herself that she will enroll and Ms. Fermer Santos came to finish a degree program in Canada. Canada while still a 16-year old teenager Initially, she would like to pursue a career full of hopes and dreams. Looking back, in medical science and did not think of she poignantly confided that having becoming a teacher. But fate comes into returned her University of the Philippines play when her big sister, who is a college admission to leave the Philippine-licensed Chemical Engineer

Archdiocese of Toronto parishes to host virtual Simbang Gabi By: Tony A. San Juan, OCT-Retired joyous birth. The Archdiocese of Toronto, in According to Fr. Holandez, “The unity with the Filipino faithful in the Masses will livestream online at diocese, will commemorate next year www.ph500toronto.com and at: the 500th year anniversary of Christianity www.facebook.com/500yocTO. in the Philippines. Toronto’s Auxiliary Bishops, some To start the Toronto celebration clergy, religious and a layman will share of the Quincentennial anniversary and in their short, pre-recorded reflections prior preparation for the birth of our Savior, to each Mass. His Eminence, Thomas Rev. Fr. Sherwin Holandez, Pastor of Our Cardinal Collins will deliver the reflection Lady of Assumption Parish, and head of on the last day of the Simbang Gabi”. the Organizing Committee, announced With the blessing of Thomas Cardinal the online airing of a nine-day “Simbang Collins, the Archbishop of Toronto, a Gabi” (Filipino for "Night Mass") and Volunteer Organizing Committee was Novena from various participating formed to organize faith-filled events to parishes. It will be held from Dec. 15 to make the celebration meaningful to the 23 at 7:00 pm. Filipino faithful. The committee is Simbang Gabi is a much- spearheaded by Rev. Fr. Holandez with revered Advent tradition by Filipino volunteer lay people as members. Catholics. This year’s theme, “Bringing For details and the schedule, God’s Light to the World – Isang Pag- please refer to the poster or visit: aalay ng Ating Pananampalataya” is www.ph500toronto.com/events.html. reflective of how we Filipinos have More updates on the events leading up become missionaries of our faith all over to the celebration will be posted online the world. and on Facebook. The virtual Everyone, regardless of talks will be uploaded on YouTube. nationality, is welcome to join virtually, in Maligayang Pasko (Merry Christmas)! reflection and preparation for Christ’s December 2020 10 The North American Filipino Star

www.filipinostar.org December 2020 The North American Filipino Star 11

5160 Decarie, Suite 610 Montréal (Québec) H3X 2H9 Tel.: 514-868-3196 E-mail: [email protected]

Marvin Rotrand City Councillor — Snowdon District Happy Holidays and a Prosperous New Year

Maligayang Pasko at Manigong Bagong Taon

www.filipinostar.org December 2020 12 The North American Filipino Star ¼ cup bread crumbs Add macaroni and cook according to 1 cup sharp cheddar, shredded package directions for about 8 to 9 1 cup raisins minutes or until firm to bite. Drain well ¼ cup banana ketchup and allow to cool completely. 3 eggs, beaten In a pot, add chicken meat and Cooking 2 teaspoons salt enough water to cover. Bring the 1 teaspoon pepper water to a boil, skimming scum that with love Instructions floats on top. Lower heat, cover, and 1) In a large bowl, combine calamansi simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes or juice, soy sauce and pepper. Marinate until cooked through. Drain from the provides chicken in mixture for about 1 hour liquid, allow to completely cool and (under refrigeration), turning chicken shred. Set aside. food for the occasionally. Drain chicken well and In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add pat dry. diced carrots and cook for about 30 soul. 2) In a large bowl, combine ground seconds. With a slotted spoon, pork, pineapple, onion, carrots, bread remove from water and plunge into an crumbs, cheese, raisins, ketchup and ice bath until completely cool. Drain beaten eggs until well-distributed. Add and set aside. salt and pepper and combine well. In a large bowl, combine macaroni, 3) Through the lower opening, spoon chicken, carrots, ham, eggs, crushed Philippine Christmas Menus half of the stuffing into the chicken. pineapple including packing juice, Insert the boiled eggs, positioning at cheese, sweet pickle relish, raisins, the center line of chicken. Fill the onions, mayonnaise, and sweetened chicken with the remaining half of the condensed milk. Gently stir together stuffing mixture. until evenly distributed. 4) Sew the neck and lower openings Season with salt and pepper to of the stuffed chicken. With a paper taste. Refrigerate for about 1 hour to towel, gently wipe down the surface of cool completely and to allow flavors to chicken to remove stray bits and meld. pieces of the meat stuffing. Tie legs together with kitchen twine. 5) Liberally brush the surface of chicken with mayonnaise. 6) Carefully transfer onto a lightly- greased roasting pan, tucking wings close to the body of the chicken to prevent them from burning before chicken is cooked through. 7) Roast in a 375 F oven for about 1 ½ hours, occasionally brushing with mayonnaise. At the last 20 minutes of cooking, liberally brush skin with butter and continue to roast until aside internal temperature reaches 165 F In the pot with the liquid in, add the and skin is golden brown. soy sauce and mix well 8) Remove from heat and let stand Add the pancit bihon (makes sure to for about 10 to 15 minutes before first soak it in water for about 10 slicing. This will help re-distribute minutes) and mix well. Cook until flavorful juices and to allow stuffing to liquid evaporates completely set. Serve with ketchup or gravy. Lumpia (Spring rolls) Put-in the vegetables and meat that INGREDIENTS were previously cooked and simmer 1 package Lumpia wrappers (Chinese for a minute or two or Vietnamese spring roll wrappers Serve hot. Share and enjoy meant for frying can be used) (25 sheets) 2 lbs. ground pork Pancit Bihon 5 cloves garlic, peeled and minced 1 inch ginger, peeled and minced Ingredients 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 lb pancit bihon Rice Noodles 2 eggs, lightly beaten 1/2 lb. pork cut into small thin slices 3 dashes ground black pepper 1/2 lb. chicken cooked, deboned, and 6 oz cabbage, thinly sliced cut into thin slices IFniglirpedinieontss tyle macaroni salad INSTRUCTIONS 1/8 lb. pea pods or snow pea Using a serrated knife, cut the square 16 ounces uncooked medium elbow 1 cup carrot lumpia wrappers in half so that you macaroni 1/2 small cabbage chopped have two stacks of rectangular 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken 1 cup celery leaves chopped finely wrappers. Place a damp paper towel 1 medium sized onion chopped breast or thigh meat over the wrappers to keep them from 1/2 tbsp garlic minced Rellenong Manok 1 large carrot, peeled and diced drying out as you work. 1 pc chicken cube (Stuffed Chicken) 1 cup ham, cubed Combine the pork, cabbage, garlic, 5 tbsp soy sauce Ingredients 6 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and ginger, soy sauce, eggs, and black 3 to 4 cups water 1 (4 to 5 pounds) whole chicken, coarsely chopped pepper in a large bowl. Using your Instructions deboned 14 ounces crushed pineapple hands, or a rubber spatula, mix the In a large pot, Saute the garlic and ½ cup calamansi or lemon juice 1 cup Eden or Velveeta Cheese, filling well so that the seasonings are onion 2 tablespoons soy sauce cubed evenly distributed. Add the pork and chicken then let teaspoon pepper ½ cup sweet pickle relish Place one of the rectangular wrappers cook for 2 minutes 3 hard boiled eggs, peeled 1 cup raisins vertically on your work surface with the Add the chicken cube and water then ¼ cup mayonnaise 1 onion, peeled and diced short edge facing you. Place a heaping simmer for 15 minutes 2 tablespoons butter, melted 1 ½ cups mayonnaise teaspoon of the filling on the wrapper Put in the carrots, pea pod, cabbage, For the Meat Stuffing ½ cup sweetened condensed milk about half an inch from the edge and celery leaves and simmer for a 1-½ pounds ground pork salt and pepper to taste closest to you. Grasp the bottom edge few minutes 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained Instructions of the wrapper and roll it up and over the filling, continuing to roll until 2 Remove all the ingredients in the pot 1 onion, peeled and grated In a pot over medium heat, bring inches of wrapper remain. except for the liquid and set them 1 large carrot, peeled and shredded about 4 quarts salted water to a boil. Dip two fingers into a bowl of water, www.filipinostar.org December 2020 The North American Filipino Star 13 Assistant at Mercan Group of member of the Order of Canada, a great Companies, talk show host (Pinoy Pa Canadian and true Montrealer.” Rin with Michael Davantes). The virtual The following are updates from fundraising concert for BANGON BICOL, Snowdon City Councilor Marvin Rotrand. with the motto, ROAD TO RECOVERY Because of the existence of Asian racism was held on November 22, 2020, in Montreal, he has written to the police Sunday at 3 pm. In the province of Bato, department to urge reinforcements of Catanduanes in the Bicol Region in resources, heightened police visibility Southern Luzon, the typhoons arrived and closer ties between community and Social Tidbits one week apart, with winds of 280 km/hr the police. This will help eradicate acts of Community News and torrential rain. Severely hit was vandalism, violence, and discrimination. Albay province where around 300 Councilor Rotrand calls for a more houses were buried in mud flows and diverse city council. There are six Fely Rosales Cariño volcanic rocks. Some villages were organizations representing the Black Hi Folks! It’s getting a little bit guidance of Chairman Mr. Al Abdon, is totally submerged. The collected and Asian communities which demand more difficult to be the bearer of good engaged in a project called La Ville amount will be sent directly to the KOR that the Municipal Council should be news. At this time, the world is shut. Extraordinaire. This university Headquarters in Manila for distribution. composed of minority members for the Everyone knows and feels that we are in community research is based at Some of the event performers coming municipal elections. We have the throes of this Covid-19 pandemic. Concordia University and led by Dr. were Mariel with Domenic Brillantes, one year to choose our next Mayor and The viciousness is paralyzing and we are Cynthia Hammond, assisted by Kimberly Nida Bashalani, Maria & the Band, council. It is appalling to know that out of in its stronghold. This second wave is Gultia, with other researchers. Their Shenelle Carpio Boceta, Andrew Julien 103 elected officials in Montreal, only 7 just entering a long tunnel, a tunnel that goal is to better understand the urban Aguilar, Astrid Torrico, Picana Rimando, are visible minorities. is dark…dark…dark. Even the knowledge of older Montrealers. Some Team Zumba (Gina, Rona, Joy and Ivan, On Thursday, Nov. 26, 2020, I appearance of vaccines from different, Filipino immigrants have contributed to Mary Galvez ) with William Streem Power just finished an hour-long interview by competing pharmaceuticals cannot help improving Montreal for the better. As Dance and Douglas Nierras. Some of Julie Chamberland of CBC Radio, assuage our feelings of hopelessness. I long as you are an older Montrealer, the donors are Angelita Velez (Beauty Montreal. Let me tell you how this shudder when I hear health most likely an immigrant, your and Bar Coiffure) and Isles Pinoy happened. Last week, Joseph Gonzales, professionals say that “the worst is yet to memories and creative input will be (Victoria and Vaudreuil locations). For past President of the Quebec come”. Really? For how long? This is not included in an exhibition slated to take donations you can E-transfer to Association of Canadian Filipino our normal universe. There are many place at the Memoire des Montrealaises [email protected]. Other Teachers (QACFT), phoned me to say assumptions. Some say this is just a in 2020-24. The new exhibition space performances and donors will be that CBC called him about this interview. serious flu. Some say this is a hoax. can be found at the intersection of published in the January issue of the He said I was more knowledgeable Some say this is created by lobbyists to Boulevard Saint-Laurent and Rue Ste. North American Filipino Star. Mell Lugod about the Filipino Community than him scare people, etc. I’m very confused. Catherine. is also doing some fundraising event. (not true). The interview covered a lot of This has curtailed my daily swimming at The Knights of Rizal (KOR), More news of this in the next issue. topics, ranging from how I came to the YMCA, my line dancing class under Eastern Canada Region, Montreal Here are some important Canada to where Filipinos are Ray and Norcie Morales, my bingo Chapter care of KOR Commander Gerry updates. MP Anthony Housefather said concentrated in Montreal. Other topics session every Wednesday with the Danzil, is fundraising for victims of Rolly of the death of Father John Walsh, “I had covered were education, social Seniors of West Island (SWIS), my and Ulysses typhoons that happened in the honour of paying a tribute at the interactions, values retained and Zumba and Yoga class at the chalet with the Philippines the week of November 1, House of Commons to the late, Father developed, family/youth/senior issues. It SWIS members, my trips to KFC, 2020. John Walsh, a beacon within Montreal’s felt as if I was tracing my steps from McDonalds and Tim Hortons and many The first shipment was sent English speaking community who when I arrived here until now. It was very more meetings with the Filipino Heritage Thursday, Nov. 26, 2020. For the second served as a pastor, curate chaplain, nostalgic but I feel happy about the Society of Montreal (FHSM). My only shipment donation, please call Sir Gerry professor , and Biblical Scholar. He was interview. Joseph, thanks to you! daily trip is a trip to the fridge to get a Danzil at 514-651-4288. a champion of bringing communities See you next issue and may drink to drown out different chips while Another benevolent service for together and devoted his life in building God bless us all. watching TV. Whew… what a trip! the typhoons is spearheaded by Tenne bridges for people of all faiths. He was a The FHSM, under the able Rose Dayandante, Administrative then moisten the last 2 inches of Ingredients student exchange program between From Page 9 Filipino-Canadian wrapper with your fingers. Finish rolling 2 tablespoons vegetable oil Canada and Japan and jointly the lumpia, then rest it on its seam. 1 medium onion Music Parents’ Association as well as sponsored by the Toronto Consulate Continue rolling with the rest of the 3 cloves garlic crushed creating examination schedules for all Office of Japan, the United Nations, and filling and lumpia wrappers. 1 pound stew beef (chuck, round), cut students and staff supervision. She is the Canadian Foreign Affairs. The At this point, you can freeze your rolled into 1 1/2 inch pieces also In-charge of delivering the international project brought Canadian lumpia if you wish by placing them in 1 cup water Education Quality and Accountability high school students and teachers to freezer bags and then into your freezer. 1/2 cup tomato sauce Office standard testing, for both the Japan to learn the Japanese language, To cook the lumpia, fill a large frying 3 tablespoons calamansi or lemon juice Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test culture, and way of life through the pan with about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil. 2-4 tablespoons soy sauce on Literacy and Mathematics. planned city and village tours in Japan Heat the oil over medium-high heat. 2 bay leaves Her community involvement is and by reciprocity, Japanese students Gently place the lumpia into the hot oil 1 large potato peeled and cut into 1 very impressive, being the Founder and touring and staying in Toronto, and and fry until golden brown on all sides, inch pieces Educational Consultant of the Centre for learning the Canadian way of life. 3 to 5 minutes total (if frying frozen 1 carrot peeled and cut into 1 inch Advancement, Retraining & Education According to Vice Principal Santos, "This lumpia, it will take 1 to 2 minutes pieces (CARE). She has been an unique life-changing experience for all longer). Salt and pepper to taste Ambassadress of Goodwill to the participants was a significant life journey Place the fried lumpia on paper towels Steamed rice for serving Philippines in 1978. A constant that they will never forget." and serve immediately with sweet and Instructions professional resource person on many Engaged administratively in sour sauce (bottled from the store is In a large pot, drizzle the oil over conferences and seminars organized observing Black Lives Matter action in fine). medium heat. Once hot, add the onions and sponsored by the Philippine the school environment, she is You can also add finely minced raw and cook, stirring occasionally, until Teachers Association of Canada (PTAC) addressing the needs of special shrimp to the pork mixture if you'd like. softened. Add the garlic and cook until and the Kababayan Multicultural Centre education students, students who are Also, instead of ground pork, you can just fragrant, 30 seconds to 1 minute. (KMC), Sher is also an active member of deemed at risk, struggling students, and use ground beef or ground turkey. Add the beef and cook, stirring the Filipino Centre Toronto Annual enriched and advanced students as well. You can use Chinese or Vietnamese occasionally, until browned on all sides. Outstanding Student Awards Together with the school team, she helps spring roll wrappers (for deep-frying). Add the water, tomato sauce, calamansi Committee. in guiding students to achieve their juice, soy sauce, and bay leaves. Stir to As a teacher, administrator, and goals, career pathways, explore their combine and bring the mixture to a boil. community personality Ms. Santos has options, and plan their post-secondary Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and received numerous awards and destinations. Her constant advice which cook over low heat for 1 1/2 hours. recognition. Among the merits are Mutya she shares with students, young and Add the potato and carrot. Continue to ng Pilipinas Canada title, sponsored by old, especially Toronto newcomer cook until the vegetables are tender. Barangay Pilipino Canada in 1977; a immigrants is to always remember that Season with salt and pepper to taste. recipient of one of the Most Outstanding education is wealth, your biggest Serve hot with steamed rice. Filipino Canadian Leaders in Education challenge and a valuable investment for award sponsored by Binibining Pilipinas a better life, adding with the words of Canada , Fil-Am Image in Washington, encouragement that you should D.C; the 2013 TDSB Excellence Award continue to dream and aspire to be the recipient for Kizuna-Bonds of Friendship best that you can be as a productive Mechadong Baka (Beef Stew) Project, a cross-cultural educational person. www.filipinostar.org December 2020 14 The North American Filipino Star

to mount it again because it was already written in a certain way. We already started the first half (of the Mylene Dizon on acting in drama series and the challenge was) how (the team) would continue the second half (without the new normal the audience noticing that there were) limitations (that needed to be considered).” As for the lock-in taping experience and acting in the new normal, Mylene had this to say: “Yes, this seems to be ideal because every day you’re in character. You’re in tune with the story every day. And being in one location with everybody, you’re able to grow as a team more, not just individually. It is ideal but we tend to miss our families. That’s the only drawback for me. But it’s a matter of getting used to it and I’m OK with it.” Followers can expect new episodes of Bilangin ang Bituin sa Langit come January. In the meantime, they have to treat themselves to the drama series’ recap as they revisit the his/her story of every character. Mylene’s Magnolia “Nolie” dela Cruz is one. Mylene Dizon, star of Bilangin ang Bituin sa Langit: ‘(Lock-in taping) seems to be ideal because “Well, that is the challenge every day you’re in character. You’re in tune with the story every day. And being in one location there,” answered Mylene when with everybody, you’re able to grow as a team more, not just individually.’ asked about keeping the enthusiasm in portraying almost the same roles. “(The challenge) Mylene Dizon is one kami (and we are exhausted),” narrative. “(With) the script, inayos with (acting in) soap operas is reliable actress, who can essay she shared. “(The lockdown nila (they updated it) in such a way hindi talaga maiiwasan na bida, kontrabida and bida- experience) was like a nice that we could use the entire magkaka-pare-pareho yung mga kontrabida roles in mainstream breather. It’s fun to be with location as different locations in roles natin (we can’t avoid it). That and independent projects. Away children every day, to cook for the story. They had to revise (it) is the challenge there and that’s from the klieg lights, she is a them every day and to see them and they had to revise the scenes what keeps me, I think, on my toes doting mother, who only wants the every day. (It) is just really so that there would be no physical still.” best for her two sons, Tomas and wonderful.” contact as much as possible.” The actor’s creativity and Lucas, and sees the importance of commitment to study the character quality family time. and the script do wonders for “For me, it’s the best ever,” Mylene to make her character look said Mylene of the lockdown fresh and deliver an inspired experience everybody dealt with performance. during these trying times in a With Laurice Guillen at the recent media call. The Bilangin helm of Bilangin ang Bituin sa ang Bituin sa Langit star looked on Langit, does Mylene see herself the bride side of things. “It directing a soap or a movie in the became so enjoyable because we future? got to spend so much time with “When I was still in college, our children. It’s not one of those (becoming a) director was one of na yung nagsawa ka, na parang my dreams,” said Mylene. “Now, sana may trabaho na ako (It’s not Mylene was able to Intimate scenes such as parang wala (ito) sa horizon ko.” one of those moments when recharge her energy and ready embracing and kissing were She added that she’s not closing you’ve had enough and you want when her Afternoon Primetime implied. The effect, however, was her door to the possibility of to work and go outside). It (the block show resumed taping after the same. becoming an actor’s director. experience) was nice.” Mylene is lockdown restrictions had been “Well, I think these are the Perhaps, Mylene will cross that coming from a place where work eased. things we (will do constantly), I bridge when she gets there. requires her and fellow creative “Well, there were many, think it’s going to be like this for a For now, her eyes are on people to stay up late and go many changes, especially in the while,” Mylene said. “These are acting and she embraces the new- home in the wee hours of the script,” hinted the Kapuso star of the new changes (and norms) that normal way of working.
morning. “We work three to four how the pandemic changed the we really have to embrace. I know times a week na pagod na pagod Bilangin ang Bituin sa Langit it wasn’t easy for the whole team

www.filipinostar.org December 2020 The North American Filipino Star 15 Loisa Andalio cries as Maine Mendoza family breadwinner after losing jobs due to tells OFWs: Treat pandemic, ABS-CBN yourself shutdown

Loisa Andalio Liza Soberano explained that deep inside, she felt not okay. Kapamilya actress Loisa Andalio "Napag-uusapan namin 'yung Babaeng Biya(hero) “celebrity champion” Maine Mendoza turned emotional upon opening up sitwasyon. 'Yung parang, 'Hindi Maine Mendoza could have easily These little ways, said Maine, on her hardship now that she has no talaga natin alam, ‘no?' Hirap. represented the privileged class, are but small trade-offs for the hard work due to the pandemic and the Mahirap din kasi sa family, kumbaga, having been born into it. work OFWs are putting in for their ABS-CBN shutdown. kami 'yung parang strength — But her charm comes from families back home. In her recent guesting in edukasyon, pagkain, lahat… Parang the way the former Yaya Dub relates Her close encounters with “Magandang Buhay,” Loisa said ayaw namin sila din 'yung mag-alala to the masses. Now, she is OFW fans is the other reason why she’s now challenged as her family's din. Ayaw namin silang matakot," channeling that common touch into Maine’s heart goes out to her breadwinner. Loisa said. another advocacy, as celebrity kababayans working abroad. She "Pinaka-challenge talaga "Kumbaga, hindi din namin champion for Safe and Fair talks to fans when she joins her 'yung walang work. Bilang pinapakita. Baka malaman nila, ‘Ay, Philippines, which recently launched Dabarkads in "Eat Bulaga"(her daily breadwinner, 'di ba, mahirap. Ikaw may ganyan pala si Loisa.’ Kumbaga, a campaign to fight the abuse of noontime show on GMA-7) in live 'yung inaasahan ng family mo," Loisa hirap. Pero mas pinapakita ko sa female Overseas Filipino Workers shows abroad. shared. family ko, 'Wala ito, okay lang ito. (OFWs). Hearing OFWs talk about The Kapuso host-actress’ soft how happy they are seeing Maine in spot for OFWs stems from two the flesh is music to her ears. It reasons. First, because she was an moves Maine to give back to OFW intern chef for six months in a fans through Safe and Fair breakfast station in The Sagamore Philippines’ "Babaeng Biya(hero)" Resort, New York. campaign. Maine is excited to boost That was five years ago, OFWs’ sometimes flagging morale when she felt how it was to live away because of loneliness and physical, from family and work hard in the emotional and financial abuse. kitchen for half a year. Going home to As a sign of gratitude to an empty room after a long day’s OFWs, Maine promised to spread the work made Maine realize how hard it word about ways overseas workers is to be an OFW. So she overcame can help themselves. loneliness by treating herself to “Be strong. Don’t be shy or simple joys. scared to ask help. There’s someone “I rewarded myself with you can reach out to. Women OFWs simple pleasures: watching movies who experience abuse or their friends Loisa Andalio cries as she shares difficulty of losing job amid with friends and buying little things and relatives can send a message to for myself. It’s something to look the Safe and Fair Philippines pandemic forward to after a work week,” she Facebook page,” she said. "Kasi, kumbaga, ikaw 'yung Okay lang wala akong trabaho, said in an online media conference Maine is planned to join a still may pinaka-okay na trabaho noon, e. huwag niyong isipin.' Pero deep sponsored by Safe and Fair tentative virtual event for May I Help ‘Tapos biglang wala… Tapos sila din inside, hindi okay, e." Philippines. You? kiosk in major airports to naman, hindi naman ganoon Loisa was among the at least She urges OFWs to be just as entertain questions, give information talaga… 'Yung sinusuweldo ng mga 5,000 workers who reportedly lost good to themselves because they about numbers to call, and greet kuya ko, tama lang naman sa mga their jobs when ABS-CBN failed to deserve it. OFWs and their friends/relatives on anak nila din. So, mahirap, sobrang renew its franchise. The network said “Don’t deprive yourself. Treat Friday, December 18. mahirap." it had around 11,000 workers yourself to a restaurant. Go shopping This way, she can help Loisa said she tried hiding affected by the shutdown.
and buy simple things. Watch a empower the people who made her her true feelings to her family and movie,” she said. the star that she is right now.
www.filipinostar.org 16 JULY 2020 The North American Filipino Star

John Lloyd Cruz finally Alden pays tribute to breaks silence on why mom in virtual concert - makes history as first he left showbiz Filipino artist to stage 'indefinitely' virtual reality concert in PH

Alden Richards

Actor John Lloyd Cruz Asia’s Multimedia Star “Alden’s Reality,” was loaded with On-leave Kapamilya actor something worth their time. And Alden Richards not only made his good vibes. Aside from the cool John Lloyd Cruz revealed why he kung ubos ka, medyo mahihirapan fans’ hearts flutter but also made performances, it was refreshing to left showbiz for an indefinite time. kang ma-deliver iyon kasi wala history as the first Filipino artist to know a little bit more about Alden. In an interview with Boy nang bagong laman iyong utak mo stage a virtual reality concert in the What hit me was when he talked Abunda for Abunda's Kumu show — wala ka nang maibibigay na Philippines through the successful about his late mom. “The Best Talk" last Saturday, John tingin ko is worth their time. “Alden’s Reality: The Virtual Reality “Joining show biz was not in Lloyd said he needed to step back Kumbaga nakakahiya na lang din,” Concert.” my plan. It was my mom who really to clear his head. he added. When asked if he’s happy now, John Lloyd said his son Elias is his little savior. “Wala na yatang mas liligaya pa pagka mayroon kang maliit na anak, na two years old na ang kulit. Wala nang kasing saya. Ang lupet. My little savior,” he said. Boy and John Lloyd also talked about the actor’s upcoming film with director Lav Diaz, “Servando Magdamag,” an adaptation of an award-winning short story written by Ricky Lee. “Karahasan, kasamaan — wala ka pa palang nakita, wala ka “We would like to wanted me to become an actor,” pa palang alam,” he said of the congratulate Alden for setting a he revealed. “That’s why I am film. new record of being the first giving my all to my craft as a tribute Star Cinema revealed Filipino artist to stage the first-ever to my mom, who was my No. 1 fan, recently that John Lloyd is also set virtual reality concert in the even before I became famous.” to make a reunion movie with Bea Philippines,” said GMA Regional The way Alden honors his “Nakakaubos iyong dine- Alonzo under the direction of Cathy TV and Synergy Vice President and mom says a lot about him. Being a demand ng ganitong trabaho,” he Garcia-Molina.
Head Oliver Victor Amoroso. good son translates into becoming shared. Alden Richards’ virtual an ideal husband/father someday. “And bilang creator gusto reality concert in celebration of his No more AlDub, make that AlDad, mong makapagbigay lagi ng 10th anniversary in the biz, instead.

www.filipinostar.org December 2020 The North American Filipino Star 17 What is Sylvia’s one great source of strength?

Sylvia Sanchez's own COVID-19 experience flashed through the actress' mind again. Her experience of COVID- we strive and thrive beyond the 19 flashed through Sylvia challenges we face. “But what I am Sanchez’s mind again while she always praying to God, and I’m and her son Arjo Atayde were sure all the mothers, is for me not taping scenes for Maalaala Mo to bury any of my children. Hindi Kaya (MMK). The weekly ABS-CBN ako ang maglilibing sa anak ko drama anthology, hosted by Charo dahil hindi ko kakayanin. I’ve been Santos-Concio, returned to through a lot of challenges no television via A2Z Channel last matter how tough, nakaya ko but Nov. 28. losing a child, that I really cannot Together with Jane de handle.” Leon, the mother and son starred The love of family and the in the two-part episode featuring people around her is one great the story of emergency room source of her strength. Sylvia said, doctor El Bactol who helped treat “My family here and in Mindanao COVID-19 patients but eventually shower me with much love. Even succumbed to it. Arjo portrayed Dr. my friends love me. Well, it’s not Bactol while Sylvia as the doctor’s that we need many friends kasi mother. kahit konti lang sila at mahal ako, okay na ko doon. But I truly am thankful that there are many people who love me.” She continued, “When I was on the brink of death, I all the more realized that there are many out there who love me. April 1 or 2 when I went 50/50 (chance of survival) and I was surprised that even the people I don’t personally know were praying for me — may “(The scenes) really mga pari and a lot more. It only brought back memories when I proved that when you sow love, and Art (Atayde, her husband) you’ll definitely reap it later on in tested positive for coronavirus after life; babalik at babalik ang experiencing the symptoms and, pagmamahal na binigay mo.” eventually, rushed to the hospital,” In spite of what happened She and her son Arjo Atayde were taping scenes for Maalaala Mo began Sylvia. “Then here I am due to the health scare and the Kaya (MMK). portraying a mother whose son has calamities that struck us, Sylvia expressed happiness for Turkey and I heard that my COVID. Sad to say, nawala si Dr. remains optimistic that the Hanggang Saan which she character is portrayed by a famous Bactol and while taping, I couldn’t pandemic will soon be over. “My topbilled with Arjo. The 2017 actress there. It’s nice that help but think that my children wish is for us to be completely Kapamilya crime drama series has although we are in the midst of this were in the same emotional state COVID-free but of course, I will just been adapted for television in pandemic and most of us are as mine when we were sick. Mas pray for it and leave everything to Turkey and it is now airing on FOX emotionally down, there are still masakit actually sa nanay na God because there is a reason why Turkey. things to be happy about. We just mangyari ito sa anak n’ya.” all these, including the typhoons “It’s the first time to have a need to focus on the positive so we Sylvia stressed that we can and flooding, are happening.” remake of Filipino drama series in can attract more blessings.”
only know how strong we are when Meanwhile, Sylvia www.filipinostar.org December 2020 18 The North American Filipino Star Rap artist Michael Sarah Geronimo Pacquiao celebrates launches dance 19th birthday with challenge simple get-together

Sarah Geronimo Manny Pacquiao carries his son rap artist Michael who just turned 19 Staying at home during of Hanabishi Philippines. Bronze Wishclusive Elite @pacquiao.michael. You are holidays could be relevant. The contest is open to Circle Awardee Michael loved! Na miss ko ang two girls It could provide us an individuals, couples, and groups. Pacquiao celebrated his 19th ko na nasa gensan!” opportunity to create more fulfilling The video length should be at least and meaningful bonding moments 30 seconds, but not more than 60 birthday on December 13 with a As seen from the with our families and loved ones. seconds. Participants may follow the simple gathering of family and Jinkee’s post and Michael’s In this light, Hanabishi, the choreography in the video or they close friends. Instagram story updates, in the leading brand in quality home can be creative in their execution. Based on photos simple event were Senator appliances, has launched the G na G “We thought for this holidays uploaded on Instagram, the Manny Pacquiao, wife Jinkee Dance challenge with Popstar we can come up with something fun event was far from the lavish Pacquiao, their sons Emmanuel Royalty Sarah Geronimo. for our customers and their families. You can dance your heart Dancing to Sarah G’s Hanabishi celebrations they hold during and former athlete and “Sports out to her latest jingle video can lighten up the special occasions. U” host Dyan Castillejo. music video for Hanabishi mood,” Ong-Chua said, adding that, The young rap artist Pacquiao is an aspiring Appliances and get the chance to “Activities such as this make us feel stayed indoors with family and rap artist who already made his win awesome appliances and connected even if the current health some friends to celebrate. mark by producing his first souvenir items signed by the situation encourages us to be acclaimed singer-actress. physically distant from each other.”

“All you have to do is post Winning entries will bring Michael with mother Jinky Pacquiao your dance video based on Sarah’s home a 3.3 cubic double door Praktikal na Kapartner MV on any refrigerator (1st prize), twin tub His mother, Jinkee album “Dreams” this year and one or all of your social media washing machine (2nd prize) and air Pacquiao, posted photos on garnering over 13 million views accounts such as Facebook, IG, or cooler (3rd prize). Five consolation Instagram showing the home for his performance of his Tiktok accounts and use prizes composed of a run from arrangement for Michael’s original song “Hate” on WISH #GnaGHanabishi. Tag Hanabishi’s December 9 to December 28, 2020. birthday with the caption: 107.5 Bus last August 5.
official Facebook page when you Winners will be announced on “Happy Birthday post,” said Cherish Ong-Chua, Vice December 30, 2020.
President for Finance and Marketing

www.filipinostar.org December 2020 The North American Filipino Star 19 The Trump legal team did have Wisconsin underwent a partial one a small victory over how long voters recount in Dane and Milwaukee counties, US election 2020: What legal should be given to provide proof of and Georgia had a state-wide recount - identification if it was missing or unclear both confirmed Mr Biden as the winner. challenges remain for Trump? on their postal ballots. The deadline was There was also a suit filed by the 12 November, but following a court ruling state of Texas, backed by President this was reduced by three days. Trump, which claimed the results in Most challenges dropped or settled in Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania and other states Wisconsin were unlawful because of A series of lawsuits in Michigan, changes to voting procedures due to the Wisconsin, Nevada, Georgia and Arizona coronavirus pandemic. have so far failed to have an impact. The US Supreme Court has These are all states where Mr refused to hear the bid, saying Texas Biden has been certified as the didn't have legal standing to bring the winner. case. •In Michigan, the Trump campaign filed a Could other challenges reach the federal lawsuit to block the certification of Supreme Court? results in Wayne County, citing President Trump has repeatedly complaints from poll watchers - but this said his legal challenges should be heard was dropped after a similar challenge by the US Supreme Court, but he's was rejected at state-level acknowledged this could be hard. •In Arizona, a lawsuit claimed some legal With little success in the lower votes were rejected, citing problems with courts, it's unclear if the US Supreme President Trump's supporters protesting over the election outcome in voting machines - but Arizona's Secretary Court would be willing to hear any of the Pennsylvania (Getty Images) By Jake Horton BBC Reality Check his lawyers took it to a federal appeals of State said this was "grasping at president's legal challenges. There's nothing to stop Mr court. It was rejected there too, with the straws", and the suit was dropped "There's no standard process for Trump's legal team from filing further judge saying: "Charges of unfairness are •In Georgia, an attempt was made to bringing election disputes to the lawsuits, but experts say the chances of serious. But calling an election unfair stop the count in Chatham County, Supreme Court" says Prof Richard success are increasingly slim. does not make it so. Charges require alleging problems with ballot processing Briffault of Columbia University Law So what legal cases remain and specific allegations and then proof. We - but the lawsuit was rejected by a judge School. "It's very unusual and it would could they affect the outcome? have neither Mr Trump's team then said who said there was "no evidence" of have to involve a very significant issue." Series of defeats so far in Pennsylvania they would be taking the case to the US improper ballot mixing To date, the 2000 election is the This is where Mr Trump Supreme Court. •In Nevada, a suit asked that Mr Trump only one to be decided by the US launched most of his challenges, and It seems unlikely the court will be named the winner in the state or that Supreme Court. although Mr Biden has already been hear any such appeal, and legal experts the results be void with no winner In that year, Democrat Al Gore certified the winner with a margin of over say even if it did, the case would have certified, alleging illegal voting. This was lost Florida state - and the presidential 80,000 votes, the president has not given little chance of success. rejected by the state's Supreme Court, election - by 537 votes out of a total of up attempts to overturn the result. here." stating there was "no credible or reliable almost six million cast in the state. The president's legal team The courts in Pennsylvania also evidence" of fraud This was followed by a highly claimed voters in Democrat-leaning areas rejected a string of legal challenges by •In Wisconsin, Trump's legal team have controversial recount process that lasted were given more of an opportunity to the Trump campaign based on around argued around 220,000 ballots were over a month - until the Supreme Court correct mistakes on their postal ballots 9,000 postal ballots they said lacked unlawfully cast, as they seek to overturn ruled to stop recounting and in favour of than elsewhere. information, such as the date the ballot the result there. The suit has been Republican George W Bush, who When they initially lost the case, was cast or the voter's address. rejected by the state's Supreme Court became president.

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7159, ch. Côte des Neiges COURSES Montreal, QC H3R 2M2 • LANGUAGES Tel.: 514-485-7861 - English (FSL) Cellphone: 514-506-8753 - French (FSL) - Filipino (Tagalog) OTHER SERVICES - Other languages • Translation (On request) (French, English, Tagalog) • ACCOUNTING - Computerized Acctg. • Tutorials online or • Keyboarding in person • Word Processing (Microsoft Office) • On site training • Excel Spreadsheets • Business Seminars PAB Batch 12 graduation, July 8, 2017

ww.filipinostar.org December 2020 The North American Filipino Star 20

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