Vol. XXIX, No. 12 December 2011 http://www.filipinostar.org Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to our readers and advertisers

On behalf of the management share our thoughts with all of you to let to all mankind. and staff of the North American you know that we consider it an honor Maligayang Pasko at Filipino Star, we wish all our readers and a privilege to be able to share our Manigong Bagong Taon! Maraming and advertisers a Merry Christmas, ideas, beliefs or values, and through salamat sa inyong pagtangkilik. Happy New Year and Happy the news we select, we hope to give Holidays. We also wish to express you the information that you need in Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi our sincere appreciation of your everyday life. We are looking forward support because without you we to continue serving you for many more would not have been able to continue years to come. publishing this newspaper. May we all share the At this time of the year, we blessings of Divine Providence and let would like to pause for a moment and there be peace on earth and goodwill See p. 2 - Filipina nurse awarded Montreal the only hip city in North America 07 December 2011 Montreal underground network of stores and recently made the New York Times list restaurants, bike paths – and relatedly of globally hip cities — the only one in the invention of a public bicycle system North America, alongside such luminaries as Shanghai, Berlin, and See Page 4 Montreal Barcelona. The global business report, See P. 4 - Anoother holiday added published in November, is aimed at a globalizing world where borders are disappearing, and young professionals are increasingly mobile, able to choose where they want to settle: “With its hearty French and North American mix, this city of 3.6 million has a real soul thanks to low living costs and long winter evenings. And it is no slouch when it comes to good food, hip culture, well- appointed museums and efficient transportation.” The report also brings up Montreal staples, like great universities, the nightlife, an extensive See P. 22 - Myriam elected to Int’l Court

www.filipinostar.org 2 The North American Filipino Star DECEMBER 2011 Mr. Cotler, a member of Mount Royal's Citizenship and Immigration Minister exceptionally large Jewish community, was anti-semitic. Jason Kenney is focusing on increasing Conservative candidates in Montreal won more than 20 per cent of the vote in only two other ridings-the Conservative support in Montreal. district of Pierrefonds-Dallaire, which By TIM NAUMETZ | Dec. 14, Montreal, likely most of Quebec, constituents that he is set to retire and former Liberal MP Bernard Patry lost 2011 PARLIAMENT HILL-Citizenship compared to the greater Toronto area a byelection is imminent, a to New Democrat Lysane Blanchette- and Immigration Minister Jason and, despite the recent attacks against government official confirmed Mr. Lamothe, and the West Montreal Kenney has shifted his Conservative Mr. Cotler, are likely to flop. Kenney, responsible for voter outreach district of Lac-Saint-Louis, retained by Party ethnic-vote outreach to Montreal, "The various communities of into 'cultural' communities through the Liberal MP Francis Scarpaleggia. following the party's electoral gains in new arrivals in Montreal are very aware past two elections, is now applying his Conservative candidates the Toronto region last May. of what's happening here in Ottawa as skills to a rainbow of visible minority scraped through with under 10 per But opposition MPs said Mr. far as the Conservatives are voters in Montreal's 18 federal cent of the vote in eight of the Kenney's (Calgary Southeast, Alta.) concerned. They've expressed to me a electoral districts. Montreal ridings. own public announcements and lot of concern about that, about how Mr. Kenney has been to And Mr. Kenney's public voting results from the May election things are being done and how they Montreal at least four times since mid- announcements recently have show there is likely only one target Mr. seem to be targeted as election props November, including appearances in focused on policies that might not be Kenney has in his sights for now-the as opposed to actually caring about local communities which do not popular with certain elements of Mount Royal Liberal bastion now held their issues, and these are things that appear in the daily run of news immigrant and new-Canadian by former justice minister Irwin Cotler. are coming to me from my releases from his departments. The communities, including measures to Mr. Cotler and Montreal NDP constituents," Mr. Benskin told The Hill official said Mr. Kenney now has more compel Muslim women to lift religious MP Tyrone Benskin (Jeanne-Le Ber, Times. time to focus on Montreal, because veils when taking an oath of Que.) said the dynamics and political In the midst of a Commons the flood of new MPs the party gained citizenship and a watch-list for several views of recent and past immigrant uproar over Conservative Party in the GTA last week are able to take thousand immigrants with permanent communities are entirely different in attempts to mislead Mr. Cotler's up outreach duties he had in the resident status the government said region over the past three years. have been "implicated" in fraudulent But a look at voting results in applications. Montreal's 18 ridings last May 2 shows Mr. Cotler told The Hill Times that chances of catching up to the he has no way of knowing whether Mr. Toronto region results, even in the four Kenney ordered the Conservative years to the next election, may be dirty-tricks campaign against him over slim. the past two years, up to a Conservative candidates Conservative-party organized placed in distant third or even fourth telephone campaign, spreading the places in the election, with 10 of the false retirement and byelection city's ridings captured by the NDP as rumours. House Speaker Andrew the party swept through Quebec. Scheer (Regina-Qu'Appelle, Sask.) Liberal incumbents held on to seven described the actions this week as ridings, and the Bloc Québécois "reprehensible." retained one of its seats. "I don't know. He and I are The lone riding where a friendly. We work together on a Conservative candidate placed number of causes together. Our second was Mount Royal, the seat Mr. relationship personally is very good," Cotler's held since he won a Mr. Cotler said. "But you know, I think byelection in 1999. Mr. Cotler blames they go about their business the CPC gains on a barrage of dirty- sometimes at the directions and trick tactics that preceded the vote, Hon. Irwin Cotler, P.C., O.C., M.P. See Page 4 - Conservative focus on including Commons flyers sponsored Mount Royal Mount Royal by Conservative MPs that suggested Tel: 514-283-0171

Best wishes to the

Filipino Community Tel.: 514-485-7861 5320-A Queen Mary Road E-Mail: [email protected] Montreal, Quebec H4C 1T7 Published by: Filcan Publications, Inc. for a Merry Christmas Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi Chief Editor & Publisher Hilda T. Veloso Al Abdon and a Sam Kevin W.G. Quiambao Jerry Estrada Community News Alberto Baens Santos News & Layout Editor Happy New Year. Columnists Bert Abiera Bernardo Sarmiento Founder Opinion Editorial

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 DECEMBER 2011 The North American Filipino Star 3 Editorial COOPERATIVE NEWS Will people vote for the “glitter of gold” or for End of the year accounting and old fashioned values of honesty and hard work? clearing up of backlog The elections of May 2011 had election to give support to the Good intentions of people who inventory, merchandising, marketing, been a disappointment for Liberal and Conservative candidate. Mr. Saulie kept on promising to help out with the selling, purchasing, accounting, and Bloc Quebecois supporters in Quebec. Sajdel, a former city councilor who was paper work of the Coop have not other business practices which they The NDP won 10 out of the 18 riding, subsequently given a position as materialized. Consequently, I find will learn as a volunteer at first, and and only 7 were retained by the regional advisor in Mr. James Moore’s myself in the same position of having eventually be the first one to be hired Liberals, and 1 for the Bloc. In the town office, the Heritage Minister. In this new to cope with a backlog. Fortunately, or when funds are available. of Mount Royal, the incumbent Liberal position, Mr. Sajdel’s job is to make unfortunately, the end of the year and As it is evident that many candidate, Mr. Irwin Cotler, won only by sure that the Conservatives’ programs the short holiday break may give me a Filipino Canadians have no clear more than 2,000 votes, a historical low are “understood” by the constituents of chance to see if I can catch up with the understanding of the objectives of a support considering that he had Mount Royal. This move by the overdue tax reports again. Once the cooperative, I will be willing to give enjoyed landslide victories in the past Conservatives did not escape criticism, accounting work has been updated, it seminars on the subject. If you are since 1999. What could have as Mr. Sajdel is seen as a “shadow MP’ will be possible to make a new interested to attend these seminars, happened? Mr. Cotler, as far as we doing the work that Mr. Cotler is business plan that will be used in the please call me at 514-485-7861 and know, has always been doing his job, supposed to be doing. future improvement of the Filipino sign up for the forthcoming schedule There were many other giving his support to anyone who Solidarity Cooperative. Although there that will be determined by requests of comes into his office, whether it be a defeated candidates, but not many of was a business plan done by the first at least five or more members and question about immigration, or legal them have landed any such privileged administration, it was not accepted and prospective members. problem. job. In this case, politics seemed to needed to be re-written. Due to what Even though I am usually in Vigorous campaigning to win have taken a new dimension of had happened, there was no one who my office and able to operate the in the Mount Royal Riding seems to be underhanded tactics, just to ensure that could do the job without paying Cooperative store, I may have to be particularly disturbing, not because of all road blocks are removed for one away for an hour or two in order to run candidate to win against another, someone a hefty fee. A new business the Conservative’s attempt to win the errands such as purchasing, banking, seat in this riding but the methods whether it be ethical or not, it is plan is needed in order to get and attending press conferences. For employed. supposed to be legal. government financing. There are many this reason, if members find the store In 2009, Mount Royal How do the voters of Mount programs of the government that have closed, this means that I have been constituents were among those on the Royal react to this newest strategy? As not yet been explored. If only there are unable to have a volunteer replace me. mailing list for a Conservative Party everyone knows, the Conservatives did more members who are able to do the leaflets that accused the Liberals of not even have any single MP from work required, the Coop would have To avoid disappointment, I would like "willingly participating" in an "overtly Montreal, and most of their candidates advanced more easily and quickly but to ask members to advise me when anti-Semitic" conference in Durban, placed third or fourth except in Mount perhaps, even if there are people who they want to go shopping at the Coop. South Africa, a claim that so infuriated Royal where Mr. Sajdel placed a close have the skills to do the work in a I can easily re-arrange my schedule to Cotler that he took to the floor of the second. Hence, the pursuit to take the cooperative, they do not necessarily be available for your shopping needs. House of Commons with a similar seat is even more intriguing and want to give their time to do something Unless I need to go for outside complaint. The speaker eventually ruled desirable. But do they have to resort to that they do not believe in. The appointments, I am usually in my office that the flyer did, in fact, constitute a unfair and “reprehensible” tactics? challenge is to persuade these people and able to operate the Cooperative prima facie breach of privilege, As everyone knows, with a that the cooperative is one of the best store everyday from 12 noon to 7 p.m. although no sanctions were imposed majority government, an election is not ways to build a legacy for future but I would prefer to get your on any of the Conservative MPs under going to be called until it has run its due generations and to show them that telephone call before hand at 514-485- whose names the missives were sent course of 4 years. But it seems that the they will also gain in terms of helping 7861 or leave me a message at out. Conservatives are busy preparing for their families gain Canadian extension 221. In recent weeks, longtime the next election at this early stage. experience by working in a cooperative Zenaida Kharroubi Liberal MP Irwin Cotler is crying foul Indeed, they want to make sure that business where every member has the President (2011-2013) over what he claims are misleading they win Mount Royal as a “symbolic opportunity to apply or learn new skills calls being made to his Montreal victory.” But with all the hardwork that such as doing cashier’s work, stock constituents about a "pending by- Mr. Cotler had done and continues to election" for the seat that he currently do, we doubt whether they would be The North American Filipino Star holds, and says he has no intention of successful. 5320-A, chemin Queen Mary. Montreal, QC H3X 1T7 vacating. Politics is usually considered SUBSCRIPTION ORDER According to his statement in like a game that is not for the weak of the House, Cotler's office has gotten hearts. However, we wish that word that Campaign Research -- an Canadian politics were different from Name ______Ontario-based market research firm what we used to know in our home Address: ______with ties to both the federal and country. It is quite an eye opener that ______provincial Conservatives -- has been we can not really presume for politics to polling Mount Royal residents on be different just because we are in Tel.: ______Cell: ______whether they plan to support the Canada. E-Mail: ______Conservative Party in a "pending, even On the other hand, we believe imminent byelection" -- an assertion that everyone has a role to play in this that Cotler says isn't just "patently false," so called “political game.” Even if we 1 year - $30 - 12 issues 2 years - $50 (24 issues) but a potential breach of his do not want to be in it, we as voters parliamentary privilege: need to be properly educated enough For the second time, Mr. in order to know how to choose our Cotler’s complaint seemed to have representatives. The time to learn fallen on deaf ears for even though it about the issues of the day is not only was obvious that he was being on election day but also in our everyday destabilized and impeded in his work life. Needless to say, it is a good idea as an MP, the current Speaker Andrew to be concerned about what goes on Scheer ruled that there was nothing he not only in the Philippines but also in could do about it, except to say that he our own backyard which is Montreal agreed the tactics used by his own and suburbs. Perhaps, we should also party, the Conservatives “were keep in mind that “not all that glitters is reprehensible.” Many editorials have gold” when the time comes to select been written citing the unsavory our representatives in the next election. practices being committed against Mr. Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi Cotler as it would appear that the Mount Royal Riding is extremely considered a prime target. Mr. Stephen Harper even visited the riding days before the last

www.filipinostar.org 4 The North American Filipino Star DECEMBER 2011 Philippines adds Chinese New Year to holidays From Page 1 Montreal Montréal, from hip city to green city ... MANILA — Philippine The Chinese New Year Montréal, a hip city and a President Benigno Aquino Thursday becomes one of 17 holidays that will embraced by the public called BIXI. summer city, has everything it takes to declared Chinese New Year an official be recognised by the Philippines in The report’s stated aim is to keep tourists happy. In its November 17 holiday, ignoring the objections of 2012 including Christian holidays such detail cities that are “both smart and edition, the New York Times included some in the business community who as Christmas and Easter and Muslim well managed.” Montréal in its list of the world's 10 You can see the report in its say there are already too many public holidays Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr. hippest cities. In July, Lonely Planet entirety on the New York Times website: holidays. Scholars say about two readers ranked Quebec's largest city Hip Cities That Think About How They It means the Chinese New percent of the Philippine population is the world's third best summer city. Just Work Year, also known as the spring festival Chinese. But many prominent families, recently, Montréal was ranked number Montreal is the biggest city in Quebec, or lunar new year, will be celebrated including Aquino's clan, have Chinese one internationally as an LGBT (lesbian, and the second biggest in Canada. gay, bisexual and transgender) It is also a hub for new destination. And with the arrival of BIXI, immigrants and opportunities, as it is now known as a green city. Of detailed in a story in the November course, Montréal's French face is 2011 issue of CIC News: Quebec’s attractive to visitors, but so are its great Attraction for Knowledge-based dining, festivals and openness. Workers

A typical Chinese New Year celebration showing a street performance of the dragon dance. annually from January 23, 2012. ancestry and the Chinese New Year is "The joint celebration is a a peak season for Hong Kong and manifestation of our solidarity with our Chinese tourists to come to the Chinese Filipino brethren who have Philippines. been part of our lives in many respects as a country and as a people," Copyright © 2011 AFP. All rights Aquino's order said. reserved. Filipina nurse wins award from UK gov’t. A picturesque view of Montreal from the park Mount Royal after by patients. Our nurses are truly LONDON – A nurse, who Nursing headquarters in London. From Page 2 - Conservative focus on ambassadors of goodwill of the “They are looking for Mount Royal graduated from Siliman University, Philippines," Ambassador Enrique A. individuals with projects that they are became the very first Filipino to receive Manalo said in his report to the DFA. going to undertake for a year that will behest of the party leadership and the prestigious Mary Seacole Manalo said there are 60,000 potentially impact black and minority sometimes on their own." Development Award from the UK Filipino health care workers in the UK, people,” she said. government. including 30,000 Filipino nurses. The Department of Foreign Mr. Cotler said, however, that although “To be given that prestigious Freires’ colleagues and former Affairs (DFA) said the coveted award he understands why the Conservatives award, I feel that I've actually done students have nothing but praises for recognizes nurses, midwives, and have attempted to defeat him by something to make us all Filipinos the industrious nurse. health visitors around the UK who make dividing the riding's Jewish community, proud,” said Mylene Freires, an advance “Mylene is very hard working. an outstanding contribution to patient he has support from a range of cultural nurse practitioner for venous access at Even when she is not well, she comes to communities on Mount Royal and, work and she is very supportive,” said though other Montreal ridings also Senior Sister Minnie Salvador of the have significant visible minority Cancer Day Unit. Clinical Nurse Specialist communities, he believes the real aim Elizabeth Crowther said, “I'm very proud is to take him down and win his district and she deserves it thoroughly, as a symbolic victory. absolutely.” (Reprinted from the Hill Times, Freires is from Panabo, Davao December 14, 2011) del Norte and is a graduate of the Siliman University. She was also a legislation that proposes to expand and cancer research grant awardee in the simplify the laws with respect to self- UK in 2008. defence and defence of property, and “I should carry the ethics of expand the circumstances in which a law- Mary Seacole in terms of how I deal with abiding Canadian can make a citizen’s people, how I work, in terms of my arrest. vision,” she said. "Our Government is committed The awards are in honor of to putting real criminals behind bars. Mary Seacole, who was born in 1805 to Canadians who have been the victim of a a Jamaican mother and Scottish father. crime should not be re-victimized by the Seacole was known for her visionary criminal justice system", said Minister approach to diversity and her Nicholson. "That’s why we have outstanding contribution to nursing. - introduced changes to the Criminal Code Report from Rose Eclarinal ABS-CBN so Canadians know they have the law on Europe News Bureau their side and that our justice system targets criminals and not victims." RE-INTRODUCTION OF REFORMS Currently, the ability to make a TO CITIZEN’S ARREST POWER citizen’s arrest is very restrictive and is Guy’s & St. Thomas’ NHS Foundation care through development and AND SELF-DEFENCE AND only permitted if an individual is caught Trust in London. leadership. DEFENCE OF PROPERTY LAWS actively engaged in a criminal offence on Freires was awarded for her "The positive contribution of OTTAWA, November 22, 2011 – or in relation to their property. project on the nurse-led Port-a-Cath Filipino nurses and health care workers The Honourable Rob Nicholson, P.C., The proposed legislation would Q.C., M.P. for Niagara Falls, Minister of insertion service for patients with sickle in the United Kingdom is highly Justice and Attorney General of Canada, cell disease. She received the award at appreciated by the British Government. See Page 19 Citizens’s Arrest today announced the re-introduction of a ceremony held at the Royal College of Their care and compassion are sought www.filipinostar.org DECEMBER 2011 The North American Filipino Star 5

Manuel’s Attempt to assume Obviously, nothing much happened. “ for deciding to freeze the account “The meeting was videotaped without asking them. He immediately FAMAS Presidency fails By W. G. Quiambao so no one can twist the story,” Abdon unfroze the account. Meanwhile, the added. bank and the REQ were sent Letters of When Cesar Manuel, former “We knew that we shouldn`t The Mabuhay directors were Complaint by the Mabuhay team’s presidential candidate of the even entertain his request for a also disappointed when Manuel lawyer. Samahang Makabayan team, asked meeting but we granted it as a changed the FAMAS records and for a meeting with the eight directors courtesy,” said Al Abdon, PRO of froze the account. “FAMAS is moving forward on of the Mabuhay team to urge them not FAMAS, in an interview at the FAMAS “It's true that Cesar went to the a fast pace with the guidance of Au as to overturn the will of the voters, they center on Dec. 7. “We didn't want to Registraire des enterprises du president,” said Abdon. were initially hesitant. They hurt him. No matter what, he served as Quebec,” confirmed Osdon. “He Osdon echoed the sentiments fraudulently changed the FAMAS of Abdon. “It's business as usual. We records by presenting false had the Open House last November, documents. He introduced himself as then we had a bake sale and we just the president of FAMAS and changed played host to the Philippine Trade its address. He gave the address of Mission’s 18 delegates from Isabela, his apartment as the new address of Cagayan and Batanes regions. And FAMAS. At the same time, he went to we had a Christmas Party on Dec. 10. the bank and froze the account of the It was attended by Councillor Marvin association. “ Rotrand and Borough Mayor Michael Osdon further explained that Appledbaum who promised his Ramon Vicente, FAMAS treasurer, continued support to FAMAS. In discovered the drastic actions that addition, the Executive Board has Manuel did when he was viewing the done the calendar of activities for the activities of the association on-line. In coming year." the wake of the freezing of the She emphasized that the account, Osdon, Vicente and Alex Sy, address of FAMAS remains 4708 Van Cesar Manuel Au Osdon FAMAS internal vice president, met Horne Ave. with the Toronto Dominion Bank recognized Aurora Osdon as the a director a few years ago and he ran manager to give him a dressing down legitimate FAMAS president declared for president last election. We gave and inducted by the COMELEC. him a chance to sell himself or The event was graced by Au Osdon, Being a working day following FAMAS president and some members the celebration, the activity wound up Besides, Manuel had no clear agenda convince us why he thought he should of her Executive Board, namely Alex Sy, early at 11:00 p.m. but everybody had at the meeting. be recognized as our president and Melle Lugod and Gina Medina. a good time with the drawing of why he could be a good leader. Rosemarie Arellano, also a member of inexpensive raffle tickets and the show FCTAM Christmas Party and Induction the board, is the outgoing president of of seasoned ballroom dancers. FCTAM. Under the masterful emceeing of New Officers By Bert Santos Also sighted were dedicated of Tony Sia, around 120 guests went volunteers of FAMAS like Jean "Dan" home with a night to remember. The Filipino Canadian Tennis Olympia Hall. They will hold office for Borjal and Terry Esguerra Association of Montreal (FCTAM) held its two years effective January 1, 2012.

L-R Gloria Saguyod, secretary; Luis Sarasola, inducting officer; Tony Sia, business mgr.; Santos "Butch" Dizon, president; Winnie Bonyad, vice-president; Josie Dutta, treasurer and Ruben Carranza, public relations officer. Christmas party and Induction of Ageless, Luis Sarasola did the honors of Officers on 11 December 2011 at swearing in the new set.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Raymond BACHAND MNA for Outremont Minister of Finance Minister of Revenue Minister Responsible for the Montreal Region

5450, chemin de la Côte-des-Neiges, bureau 115 Montréal (Québec) H3T 1Y6 Tel.: 514-482-0199 Fax: 514-482-9985

www.filipinostar.org 6 The North American Filipino Star DECEMBER 2011

determinations periodically in regard to environment. How so? Jason K., could be linked to cattle ranching. And the how much mercury is safe for consumers Sarasota, FL water pollution from factory farms (also to ingest from eating fish. State and tribal Our meat consumption habits called concentrated animal feeding environmental authorities and/or health take a serious toll on the environment. operations or CAFOs)—whereby pigs and departments issue fish consumption According to the Environmental Working other livestock are contained in tight advisories for water bodies in their Group (EWG), the production, processing quarters—can produce as much sewage respective jurisdictions based on federal and distribution of meat requires huge waste as a small city, according to the guidelines. The EPA consolidates these outlays of pesticides, fertilizer, fuel, feed local and regional advisories on its and water while releasing greenhouse Natural Resources Defense Council Dear EarthTalk: I know that large fish website, where concerned consumers and gases, manure and a range of toxic (NRDC). Further, the widespread use of fisher folk can click on a map of the states contain a lot of mercury, but where does chemicals into our air and water. A lifecycle antibiotics to keep livestock healthy on it come from? And what are we doing to to find out which advisories may be in analysis conducted by EWG that took into prevent this contamination? -- Alison effect in their area. account the production and distribution of those overcrowded CAFOs has led to the Bronner, Atlanta, GA As for which fish to avoid, the non- 20 common agricultural products found development of antibiotic-resistant strains profit Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), Mercury in the fish we like to eat that red meat such as beef and lamb is of bacteria that threaten human health and which runs the handy Seafood Selector responsible for 10 to 40 times as many is a big problem in the United States and the environment in their own right. increasingly around the world. Mercury website, reports that people with mercury greenhouse gas emissions as common itself is a naturally occurring element that concerns should steer clear of bluefin tuna, vegetables and grains. Eating too much meat is no good is present throughout the environment walleye, king mackerel and marlin. Livestock are typically fed corn, for our health, with overindulgence linked and in plants and animals. But human Bluefish, shark, swordfish, wild sturgeon, soybean meal and other grains which have to increasing rates of heart disease, cancer industrial activity (such as coal-fired opah and bigeye tuna carry a to first be grown using large amounts of and obesity. Worldwide, between 1971 electricity generation, smelting and the proportionately large mercury burden as fertilizer, fuel, pesticides, water and land. and 2010, production of meat tripled to well. Also of concern, but to a slightly EWG estimates that growing livestock feed around 600 billion pounds while global in the U.S. alone requires 167 million population grew by 81 percent, meaning pounds of pesticides and 17 billion that we are eating a lot more meat than our pounds of nitrogen fertilizer each year grandparents. Researchers extrapolate across some 149 million acres of cropland. that global meat production will double by The process generates copious amounts 2050 to about 1.2 trillion pounds a year, of nitrous oxide, a greenhouse gas 300 putting further pressure on the times more potent than carbon dioxide, environment and human health. while the output of methane—another For those who can’t give up meat fully, potent greenhouse gas—from cattle is cutting back goes a long way toward estimated to generate some 20 percent of helping the environment, as does overall U.S. methane emissions. choosing meat and dairy products from “If all the grain currently fed to organic, pasture-raised, grass-fed animals. livestock in the United States were “Ultimately, we need better policies and consumed directly by people, the number stronger regulations to reduce the of people who could be fed would be environmental impacts of livestock nearly 800 million,” reports ecologist David production,” says EWG’s Kari Pimentel of Cornell University’s College of Hammerschlag “But personal shifting of Agriculture and Life Sciences. He adds Once mercury gets into the marine food chain, mostly from human industrial sources such as diets is an important step.” that the seven billion livestock in the U.S. coal-fired electricity generation, smelting and the incineration of waste, it “bioaccumulates” consume five times as much grain as is in the larger ocean predators. That’s why larger fish -- like the bluefin tuna pictured here -- The Environmental Magazine consumed directly by the entire U.S. are generally riskier to eat than smaller ones. Credit: iStock/Thinkstock (www.emagazine.com). Send questions population. to: [email protected]. incineration of waste) ratchets up the lesser extent, are orange roughy, Chilean Our meat consumption habits www.emagazine.com/ amount of airborne mercury which sea bass, blue crab, lingcod, Spanish also cause other environmental problems. eventually finds its way into lakes, rivers mackerel, spotted seatrout, wahoo, A 2009 study found that four-fifths of the and the ocean, where it is gobbled up by grouper, snapper, halibut, tile fish, rock fish deforestation across the Amazon rainforest unsuspecting fish and other marine life. and sable fish, as well as blackfin, albacore Once this mercury gets into the and yellowfin tuna. marine food chain, it “bioaccumulates” in Beyond what individuals can do the larger predators. That’s why larger to avoid mercury, the U.S. government and fish are generally riskier to eat than states have begun working together to smaller ones. Those of us who eat too reduce mercury emissions from power much mercury-laden fish can suffer from plants. Earlier this year the EPA proposed a range of health maladies including new “Mercury and Air Toxics Standards” reproductive troubles and nervous regulating mercury emissions from utilities system disorders. The U.S. across the country, with the goal of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reducing the amount of mercury emitted by reports that human fetuses exposed to coal burning by 91 percent by 2016. mercury before birth “may be at an Elsewhere, representatives from 140 increased risk of poor performance on countries signed on to reduce global neurobehavioral tasks, such as those mercury pollution at a 2009 United Nations measuring attention, fine motor function, Environment Program’s Governing Council language skills, visual-spatial abilities and meeting in Nairobi, Kenya. The agreement verbal memory.” Up to 10 percent of commits signatory countries—including American women of childbearing age the U.S.—to cutting back on the use and carry enough mercury in their emission of mercury. A legally binding bloodstreams to put their developing treaty mandating just how much each children at increased risk for country will have to cut back mercury developmental problems. emissions takes hold in 2013. In partnership with the U.S. Food Dear EarthTalk: I heard that the and Drug Administration, the EPA issues less meat one eats, the better it is for the

www.filipinostar.org DECEMBER 2011 The North American Filipino Star 7 Minister Kenney Announces Important improve the efficiency of that disabled processing." person in that household without Change for Live-in Caregivers The Government of Canada supervision, as well as whether the OTTAWA, ONTARIO-- "I'd also like to thank the has taken action to protect live-in employer has sufficient financial (Marketwire - Dec. 15, 2011) - Live-in Toronto Caregiver Resource Centre for caregivers from abuse and resources to pay the wages of the caregivers will be able to get open advocating on behalf of caregivers and exploitation with regulatory caregiver and whether the work permits about 18 months sooner, bringing this situation to my attention," improvements implemented in the accommodations being provided are thanks to a processing change the Minister added. Live-in Caregiver Program in 2010 and adequate; announced today by Citizenship, The LCP is a demand-based the Temporary Foreign Worker and Immigration and Multiculturalism program and the number of caregivers Program in 2011. Changes include: -- a two-year period of ineligibility Minister Jason Kenney. accepted as permanent residents -- allowing live-in caregivers to apply from hiring foreign workers, "Too many live-in caregivers generally corresponds with the for permanent residence after 3,900 including live-in caregivers, for have completed their work obligations number who came to Canada as work hours, rather than two years of employers who have failed to live up but must continue living in the home of temporary foreign workers (TFWs) a work, to ensure overtime is to the terms of past job contracts. their employer, waiting for their few years earlier. For instance, about appropriately recognized; application for permanent residence to 4,700 live-in caregivers entered the -- the elimination of the need for a Follow us on Twitter at be reviewed," said the Minister. "This is program as TFWs in 2002, and about second medical examination when the www.twitter.com/CitImmCanada. understandably frustrating. That's why 4,500 permanent residents were caregiver applies for permanent we have started issuing open work accepted through the Live-in Caregiver residence; Building a stronger Canada: permits to live-in caregivers as soon as Class in 2005. More than 7,200 -- increasing the amount of time a Citizenship and Immigration Canada they have completed their obligations caregivers entered the program in caregiver has to complete their work (CIC) strengthens Canada's and submitted an application for 2005 and about 10,400 individuals, obligations, from three years to four; economic, social and cultural permanent residence." including spouses and dependants of -- the adoption of a standardized prosperity, helping ensure Canadian The Live-in Caregiver Program those caregivers, became permanent employment contract that ensures safety and security while managing (LCP) allows Canadian families to hire residents through the Live-in Caregiver both one of the largest and most generous workers from abroad to provide care to Class three years later. parties agree to the salary, hours of immigration programs in the world. a child, an elderly person or an adult In 2010, CIC admitted a record work, vacation time, overtime, with disabilities when there is a number of permanent residents holidays, sick leave, and the terms CONTACT INFORMATION: demonstrated shortage of Canadians through the Live-in Caregiver Class- of termination and resignation; Candice Malcolm and permanent residents to fill nearly 14,000 in all-corresponding with -- defining the costs the employer is Minister's Office available positions. Caregivers are the record number of live-in caregivers obliged to pay, including the Citizenship and Immigration Canada obliged to work for two years, or 3,900 who entered the country as TFWs in caregiver's travel expenses in 613-954-1064 hours, and then become eligible to 2007. coming to Canada, medical apply for permanent residence in In both 2009 and 2010, about insurance, or Canada. five percent of all permanent residents workplace safety insurance and Until now, live-in caregivers to Canada were admitted through the third-party representative fees; Media Relations waited for an initial approval on their Live-in Caregiver Class, a huge -- emergency processing of work Communications Branch application for permanent residence percentage for any single occupation. permits and employer authorizations Citizenship and Immigration Canada before being eligible for an open work However, the number of to hire 613-952-1650 permit. An open work permit allows the caregivers entering the program has live-in caregivers who have been [email protected] abused and need to leave their caregiver to move out of their declined every year since 2007. The key to a bright employer's home and seek jobs in "The change I have employment immediately; other fields, if that is their wish. As of announced today will help caregivers -- a dedicated phone service for live- future in Quebec is December 11, 2011, all live-in settle into their new life in Canada in caregivers through the the French language. caregivers who had met their while they wait for their permanent department's Call Centre; obligations and submitted an resident applications to be processed," -- an assessment of the genuineness Enroll in our language application for permanent residence the Minister added. "And with the of the job offer, including courses at Gilmore College have had their files reviewed. Those significant improvements being made confirmation that the caregiver International for the coming would be residing in a private who submitted an open work permit to our global case processing system, Winter 2012 session. application with no missing my department's officers will be better residence information are being issued open able to manage the file load between and providing child care, senior work permits. Canada and missions abroad and home support care or care of a Call 514-485-7861

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www.filipinostar.org 8 The North American Filipino Star DECEMBER 2011 disdain for (sic) his station in life. But he eventually, I still want to see the original. shouldn’t posture as Mr. Morality man. Sanay na sanay si Magallanes na Ang pagtira ko at ng aking pamilya sa magsinungaling at mag-Photoshop ng Any Which Way ... isang basement apartment ay mga litrato at dokumento. Thus, it isn’t kagustuhan ko. It’s actually a matter of advisable to take his words at face lifestyle. Hindi sa pagyayabang, kaya value. His intention in publishing is rin naming magkaroon ng sariling always to harm his perceived enemies, tirahan kung aming nanaisin. and not to disseminate information to ******* the community. UP GRADUATE NGA BA SI ******* MAGALLANES O HINDI? – Sayang FRAUD IS JEALOUS OF WILLIE Q. Bernardo “Budz” Sarmiento at hindi sumagi sa isip ko na – In the November 2011 issue of his [email protected]. interbyuhin si Fraud noong nagtipun- trashy tabloid, pseudo-journalist tipon ang mga University of the Magallanes denigrated Mr. Quiambao’s Philippines (UP) alumni sa Buffet Vichy stint with the Montreal Gazette. Ito ang noong November 4. Matagal ko na sabi ng magaling na publisher/editor-in- kasing itinatanong sa kanya kung chief ng there’s-nothing-like-it Filipino Forum: Can you be a Gazette reporter if I return to Montreal in six months. talagang nagtapos s’ya sa UP tulad ng Merry Christmas and a Happy kanyang palaging ipinanganga- you’re just a contributor of the Montreal New Year to all Anyway, one possible motive that paper, and no weekly pay as well as other Sonny Valdez would tell Magallanes landakan, kung anong degree ang Happy Holidays to all my friends, benefits? I don’t think so. But Bernardo such a lie is to spite me for refusing to kanyang tinapos at kung anong taon readers and supporters. Thank you for Sarmiento (“BS”) insists Willie Quiambao give him a copy of the result of the last s’ya nagtapos subali’t palagi na n’yang your continued patronage. I hope that was a Gazette reporter. FAMAS election. Added to that is my iniiwasang sagutin ang mga tanong you will keep on reading the North I didn’t say, much less insist, that criticism of his lackluster performance, kong iyon. Mr. Quiambao was a Gazette reporter. American Filipino Star. We will try our to say the least, as a member of the Ilang beses na rin n’yang What I wrote more than once is that he best to make this newspaper even more COMELEC. Politics might have played a sinabi na naging kaklase n’ya si Sen. was a writer and/or contributor for said informational, more informative and part as well. He was for Manuel; I was Miriam Defensor-Santiago sa UP newspaper. In fairness to Mr. Quiambao, more entertaining throughout the for Osdon. College of Law pero nang may he never claimed that he was a Gazette incoming year. As importantly, I hope Sonny Valdez started nagtanong sa senadora tungkol doon, reporter, either, although he was – and still that the turmoil of 2011 will not be badmouthing me shortly after I was tahasan n’yang sinabi na wala s’yang is – quite capable to do the job. It’s carried over to 2012. elected the chair of the COMELEC. He naging kaklase na may ganoong Magallanes who can never be a reporter, ******* didn’t like my leadership style. He pangalan. Kung anu-anong excuse ang not even a contributor, in any newspaper, HE’S A LIAR IF HE REALLY SAID IT begrudged that I was up there in the iniimbento ni Fraud kung bakit hindi major or not, in Montreal for lack of talent. — If, and that’s a big if, Sonny Valdez did Walang magha-hire sa kanya na COMELEC organizational chart. Pinoy s’ya kilala ng senadora. At saka indeed tell Fraud Magallanes that I was publication maliban as a janitor tulad ng habitués of Plaza Cote des Neiges and mismong ang mga nagtapos sa UP na found guilty of theft charges, there are nangyari sa kanya sa Calgary when he Tim Horton’s on Van Horne who are dumalo sa nasabing reunion ang hindi not two but three big liars in our was hired by the Calgary Sun to do that sympathetic to me told me that. It’s makapagsabi ng may katiyakan kung community. menial job. That’s the reason he launched ironic that he would smear me since I UP alumnus nga si Fraud o hindi. Sonny Valdez and I have his own tabloid. Only he, himself, would was the one who fought hard and Heto pa ang isang tell-tale na known each other since mid-1976. Both hire him as publisher and editor-in-chief insisted to Au Osdon to appoint him to nagpapahiwatig na hindi nagtapos si of us immigrated to Montreal almost at dahil talaga namang wala siyang talino sa the committee, partly out of friendship, Magallanes sa UP. Isang litrato at the same time. Occasionally, especially journalism. Dahil kanya ang diaryo, he but largely out of my now-mistaken maikling caption lang ang ipinablis n’ya during the early years of our friendship, didn’t need any writing ability. Very belief that he would be an asset to the sa November 2011 issue ng kanyang obvious naman, di ba? Iyung mga we had guested each other’s important committee. That insistence is haunting diaryo, at hindi pa s’ya bumanggit ng credential na sinasabi n’ya, fake lahat ang personal social events. me now because he turned out to be a mga pangalan. Mas mahaba pa nga mga iyon. As the Community already On at least two occasions I big disappointment. If he was a ang isinulat n’ya tungkol kina James de knows, fakery and lies define his whole asked him to help me out on something firecracker, he would have been a big la Paz, Willie Quiambao at sa being. I could not do alone, such as moving a dud. He always has a lot to say, but kolumnistang ito kaysa tungkol sa sarili ******* family-size washing machine or moving almost nothing to show for it. People n’yang “Alma Mater” at mga ANOTHER ONE OF FRAUD’S to a new address, and he always from Novo Ecijano Association and schoolmates. Kung ako ang nagtapos ETERNAL LIES — Only the FAMAS obliged. Occasionally at work, we Knight of Columbus – St. Kevin know sa UP, buong pagmamalaki kong Committee on Elections (COMELEC) would have animated – or heated, if you too well what that means. In hindsight, I isusulat ang accomplishment ng aking has the authority to decide who should will – debates on anything during our should have checked with them first kapwa alumni. Baka nga editorialized be president of the Association. No breaks, but we never got personal. So, before I recommended him insistently pa. Gayundin, isusulat ko rin kung ano other authority, not even the Quebec I was astonished to learn that he to Ms. Osdon. As a Beatles’ song goes ang aking tinapos sa UP, kung anong Enterprise Registrar, could legally stabbed me in the back by allegedly “I should have known better.” taon ako nagtapos doon at kung sinu- declare that Cesar Manuel was the telling Fraud that I was found guilty of ******* sino ang aking mga sikat na kaklase, rightful leader and president of FAMAS theft, virtually aligning his self with the SKUNKY FRAUD MAGALLANES lalung-lalo na kung merong nagdududa not only because it doesn’t have the devil. I am categorically saying here that NABAHUAN KAY BIG SUROT – sa aking tunay na katayuan. Kung nai- power to do so but also because I was never accused, let alone found Nakakatawa talaga ang logic nitong si publish n’ya minsan ang kanyang Manuel is not, never was, never will be guilty, of theft anywhere in the world, Fraudulent Crass Magallanes. Sukat papeles na galing sa isang press that leader and president. Miss Aurora and certainly not at the Montreal bang minaliit n’ya ang pagtira ko sa agency na diumano’y nagpapatunay na Osdon is the rightful leader and General Hospital. It is clear that Fraud, isang basement apartment, at s’ya ay talagang periodista, bakit hindi with Sonny Valdez’s help, has defamed pinalabas pa n’ya na immoral ang pa n’ya ipina-publish ang kanyang UP See Page 15 Any Which Way me. I intend to deal with that when I get pagtira roon. Ano naman kaya ang diploma? But if he publishes it back from the Philippines. masama at pagka-immoral ng pagtira I left MGH honorably, and only sa basement? because my then-wife and I were to Dalawang beses s’yang na- Need Money? relocate to Vancouver at that time. evict sa apartment na kanyang tinitirhan There was no theft to admit simply noon dahil sa kawalan n’ya ng because there was no theft committed. pambayad ng renta. Batugan kasi kaya Therefore, I didn’t have to call Sonny wala s’yang kuwarta, at umaasa na lang Do you have a full time job? Valdez – or anyone else, for that matter sa pobreng asawa. Anyway, kung – for help in that regard. immoral ang pagtira sa basement, ano I got my copy of the November If yes, call (514) 344-1499 kaya naman ang napalayas nang 2011 Filipino Forum only last dalawang beses dahil hindi makabayad Wednesday evening, November 23rd, ng renta? Sa basement nga lang kami and since I was to leave for the nakatira, pero hindi naman kami kailan Philippines at 6:00 of the following man napalayas sa di-pagbabayad ng morning, and still had to finish packing, AND GET CASH NOW! renta o sa anumang dahilan. I didn’t get around to reading what lies Anupaman, ito ang sabi n’ya Fraud had woven until I was already en (Filipino Forum, November 2011, Page route from Washington, DC to Narita. 12): BS has been lecturing people on I wish I was in a position to have a one- how to live their lives. Oh, dear, talk on-one meeting with Sonny Valdez Good & Bad Credit Accepted about pot and kettle. The sad truth is immediately to hear the real score that he is living in a basement of an straight from the horse’s mouth, but the apartment in Cote des Neiges. I don’t timing was so bad that it had to wait till www.filipinostar.org DECEMBER 2011 The North American Filipino Star 9 hahanda sa mga materyal na bagay na ngunit tinutustusan ng maraming sa isang iglap lamang ay nawawala. karanasan at kabatiran sa buhay Palagay ko ay di naman kalabisang na mas pinahahalagahan niya ngayon. igugol din natin ang ating mga sarili sa Maaari ninyong bisitahin ang kaniyang mga may panghabang-buhay na blog sa http://clarzrodrigo,blogspot,com para mabasa ang kaniyang mga paglalakbay bilang mabuting mapapala -iyong galing sa boluntaryo sa Tanzania. Maaari rin ninyon puso -pagmamahal, kapayapaan at sulatan siya sa kaniyang email: kapatawaran. [email protected] kung ano man ang mayroon ako. Dito (She is now in Tanzania (East Africa) for another volunteer work. She went first to Pasko! nag-umpisa ang pagbabago ng Maligayang Pasko sa Lahat! Bangladesh from 2008-2009. She resigned in ni Bb. Clarifel F. Rodrigo direksiyon ng pag-iisip ko. Kaya 2007 from her regular job of 10 years to make a pagdating ng Pasko doon, ipinilit ko sa Tungkol sa Awtor: change in her life. Since then, she has been sarili ko na di dapat akong malungkot Siya ngayon ay nasa Tanzania surviving without a regular paycheck but she has lIang araw na lang, Pasko na. gained many experiences and lessons from life Sa Pilipinas, ang Pasko ay isang kundi maging masaya - kahit walang (Silangang Aprika) para sa isa na which she thinks are more valuable than anything tradisyon o kaugalian na dapat handa, walang regalo, malayo sa namang gawaing boluntaryo. else. maraming handa, regalo at bagong kapamilya, kaanak at mga kaibigan. Ang una niya ay sa You can visit her blog at http//clarzrodrigo.blogspot.com to read her gamit. Ginagawa rin itong Kasi nasa bansa ako na di nila alam Bangladesh mula 2008-2009. Noong kung ano ang Pasko. Na ang journeys as a volunteer in Tanzania. You can pagkakataon para magtipon-tipon ang 2007, nagbitiw siya sa kaniyang reach her through her email: mga kapamilya, kaanak at magka- mahalaga sa kanila ay kung paano nila regular na trabaho nang 10 taon para [email protected] kaibigan. Sa mga may kakayahang buhayin ang kanilang sarili sa pang humanap ng bagong direksiyon sa gumastos, labis ang paghahanda, pero araw-araw na pamamalagi nila sa buhay niya. Simula noon, nabubuhay sa mga walang-wala, ginagawan ng mundo. siya nang walang regular na suweldo * * * * * paraan para may maihanda. Taon- Doon ko natanto na ang Pasko taon, ganito ang pagdiriwang ng Pasko ay dapat paghahanda ng sarili para sa Jokepardy ng mga Pinoy. totoong kahulugan ng araw na ito.

Pechay: "Maligayang Pasko sa iyo!" Pichu: "Manigong Bagong Taon naman." Pechay: "Ano ang laro natin ngayon?" Pichu: "Ano pa, e di Jokepardy. Sa ganoon, hasa ang utak natin laban sa alzheimers. Pechay: "Sige, umpisahan mo, Kuya, dahil bago sa'kin ang larong ito." Pichu: "Ano ang snow?" Pechay: "Ano pa, malamig na malamig na ulan, nabuo at namuti." Pichu: "Ano ngayon ang gatas?" Pechay: "Pag nilagay sa freezer, ice-cream!" Pichu: "Ang galing mo talaga. 'Yung mga kulay alam mo na ba?" Pechay: "Ay, oo, para 'yun lang." Pichu: "Alam mo ba kung ano ang kulay na orange?." Pechay "Oo naman, kulay ng popsicle." Pichu: "Ayoko na nga, ang galing-galing mo. Ikaw naman kaya ang magtanong." Pechay: "O sige, pero kailangan marunong ka ng aritmetik." Pichu: "Ay salamat! Paborito ko 'yan." Pechay: "Isang Democrat, isang Republican at isang Independent kung pagsama-samahin ay ilan? Pichu" "Ang dali naman. ..tatlong maglalaban sa kongreso ng Amerkano!" Pechay: "Sikat! . . . vocabulary test na lang tayo" Pichu" "Magaling din ako diyan." Pechay: "Volunteer. . ibigay mo ang kahulugan at gamitin sa pangungusap." Pichu: "Ang kahulugan ay may kusang-loob na tumulong sa kapwa." Si BB. Rodrigo sa pagitan ng dalawang batang lalake sa unahan) Ms. Rodrigo is Pechay: "Halimbawa nga?" between the two boys in front. Pichu: "Kapag basa lang ang lampin ko mabilis dumating ang volunteer Pa'no naman kapag ikaw ay Gaya ng pagmamahal sa kapwa tao magpalit. nasa isang bansa na hindi Kristiyano? kahit magkaibang lahi man o At pag may namumukol sa lampin ay mabagal dumating ang Halimbawa sa mga bansa ng mga paniniwala. Mahirap mang gawin pero volunteer. naniniwala sa Islam. Naranasan kong kapag sinubukan, kakayanin naman Pechay: "Mucho lokura ka talaga, Kuya. Tayo na nga at nagtatawag na ng mag-Pasko sa bansang Arabo at pala. Kahit sabihin 'man natin na dapat pangalan si Santa Claus." Bangladesh. Malayong-malayo sa magpakatotoong tao tayo; na ang tao atin. Malungkot kasi hindi iyon ang ay nakatakda na nabubuhay lamang Imbitahan kaya muli ni Mang Bert ang dalawang ito sa susunod na labas? nakasanayan ko. Pero, may natutunan sa mga materyal na bagay. Ngunit Abangan! akong mahahalagang aral sa buhay at naniniwala ako na may mas malalim na naisip ko na hindi naman pala dahilan ang ating pagkabuhay dito sa kailangan ang labis na paghahanda sa mundo. At iyon dapat ang hanapin araw ng Pasko. Nakasanayan ko lang natin sa ating mga puso habang na ang kaligayahan ko kapag Pasko ay naghahanda para kapaskuhan. Kung nakatuon sa mga bagay-bagay na paano magbibigay ng kaligayahan sa pansamantala lamang. kapwa tao sa munting paraan. Kung Noong nasa Bangladesh ako, paano gawin ito ay umpisahan natin sa nakita ko kung ano ang totoong kuwento ng pagkapanganak ni Kristo. kalagayan ng hirap sa buhay. Walang Alam natin lahat na Siya ay maayos na tirahan, walang malinis na naipanganak sa munting sabsaban. tubig, walang trabaho at walang Pero saliksikin natin kung ano ang pagkain ang marami sa kanila. tunay na dahilan kung bakit siya ay Naantig ang puso ko sa mga isinilang sa mundo -dahil sa nasaksihan ko. Nakonsensiya akong pagmamahal ng Diyos sa tao. bigla na puro lang ako reklamo sa Nakasanayan na natin na buhay pero may mga mas malala pala gumagastos nang labis tuwing kapaskuhan. Kasi ang nasa isip natin ang kalagayan kaya mas may Pechay at Pichu karapatang magreklamo. Napa- ay -isang beses lang naman sa isang kapalad ko pala at dapat magalak taon. At napupunta lahat sa pag-

www.filipinostar.org 10 The North American Filipino Star DECEMBER 2011 you don't have a tripod, any solid surface that you are as solid and comfortable as support, but you may be pleasantly can act as a camera platform. You can set possible and slowly move in the direction surprised at the look of the shots. your camera on a rock, fence post or you have planned. Always plan and Image Stabilization parked car, or lean up against a tree or rehearse camera movements before Image stabilization is the video the edge of a building. Use a table or making them. engineer's gift to amateur videographers. chair to steady your shot. If shooting on Monopods Your camcorder's built-in image stabilizer the beach, lay some plastic down and A monopod is like a hiking stick seeks to smooth out handheld video, Ask the steady the camera on the sand, or set the with a camera mount at the top. minimizing camera shake. Image Video Guy camera up on the steps of the lifeguard Monopods are primarily still-camera stabilizers are found in most camcorders tower. tools, but can be quite handy when must today. There are two types: electronic and Al Abdon When using a solid platform to be mobile and you still need to shoot optical. Optical is generally better, and is Keeping your Video shoot from, you will most likely have to tilt steady video. You will often see camera typically found on higher-end the camera to get the best shot. Once operators on the sidelines at football camcorders. Although they can be quite Shoot Steady again, objects around you might be games or other sporting events using handy if you find yourself in a situation Does your video make your useful: credit cards, cardboard, monopods. The monopod is lighter and where you must shoot handheld, they do viewer dizzy? I cannot resist the newspapers, pencils, even gum wrappers more manageable than a tripod. While have a couple of limitations. First, importance that your video depends on can be used to stabilize your shot. Once the monopod prevents vertical movement electronic image stabilization can reduce how steady your hands are. you compose your shot, press the record of the camcorder, it does nothing to the overall number of pixels on the CCD Shooting steady video is button and take your hands away. prevent the horizontal or tilting that are used to capture an image. This perhaps one of the most fundamental Tripods movement. can result in a general softening of the skills of good video production. If your Every videographer should own Flying Supports picture. Second, when the stabilizer is camera isn't steady, your shots will be a good tripod. A tripod lets you shoot If you have a little extra cash in your used during a pan, the smooth pan might difficult to watch (unless you provide a solid, steady video with little effort. There pocket, you might want to check out one jump slightly from one point to the next as healthy dose of seasick pills). In this are, however some things you need to of the many types of flying camera the stabilizer tries to correct your column we will take a look at various keep in mind when using a tripod. Always supports on the market. These handheld intentional movement. Still, image ways you can shoot good solid video set your tripod and camera up so that one counterbalanced supports allow you to stabilization, both electronic and optical, every time, no matter the subject or the of the three legs is pointing towards your move freely while shooting and produce can be a shotsaver when shooting situation. We'll start out with the subject. This will create a space for you to gliding, shake-free video. The most handheld. fundamentals of shooting handheld stand in between the other two legs. If famous flying camera support is the Keep It Steady video and move towards more you know you are going to pan in one Steadicam and the brand name has There are times to move the sophisticated electronically-aided particular direction a lot, point the front become a shorthand for the entire class camera and times to hold it still, but, methods for keeping your video smooth leg of the tripod halfway between the of products. Beyond simple handheld unless you are trying to create an and steady. farthest left and farthest right your subject devices, you can get complex vests and earthquake effect, there are seldom times Shooting Fundamentals will move so you won't have to walk harnesses that will help you hold the when shaky video is good video. Shooting handheld video is around or step over one of the back legs. camera during long shoots. The The holiday season is here. This perhaps the most difficult way to capture When adjusting the height of your tripod, professional gliding camera stabilizers is the best opportunity for you to practice images on tape. No matter how steady use your subject as your guide, instead of are so smooth you can barely tell the with your camcorder to your love ones, you think you are, even your breathing setting it at a level that makes you feel camera is not sitting on a tripod. One kids, relatives and friends. can make the camera move and shake. comfortable. Set your tripod up so that note of caution: if you are considering If you find yourself in a situation where the camera, when completely horizontal, buying one, try it out first to see if it will Happy Shooting you must shoot handheld, there are a is pointing at the neck of your subject. work with your camcorder. few things to keep in mind. 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www.filipinostar.org DECEMBER 2011 The North American Filipino Star 11

Que la période des fêtes soit pour vous une occasion de ressourcement et la promesse d’une année de succès et d’excellence.

Joyeuses Fêtes!

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May the Holiday Season be filled with joy and celebration for you and yours. Thomas Mulcair Pierre Arcand Happy Holidays! MP for Outremont Député de Mont-Royal Ministre du développement 310-3333, Queen Mary Road durable de l’environnement Montreal, QC H3V 1A2 et des parcs 3400, rue Jean-Talon Ouest Wishing you all a very bureau 100 wonderful Christmas Montréal (Québec) H3R 2E8 and a Happy New Year Téléphone: 514-341-1151 ministr@[email protected] Maligayang Pasko at Masaganang Bagong Taon

www.filipinostar.org 12 The North American Filipino Star DECEMBER 2011 The North American Filipino Star Photo Gallery Gilmore’s Christmas Party - December 10, 2011

FAMAS Carolling at Gilmore College International, December 8, 2011

Get a gift certificate Marché Coop for birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas and other occasions. 5320-A Queen Mary Available at Marché Coop (between Decarie & Coolbrook) Montreal, QC H3X 1T7 Tel.: 514-485-7861 ext. 228 E-mail: [email protected] www.marchecoop.com

Note to members: Please advise us of your change of telephone number and address to update our records.

If you are not yet a member, sign up now and participate in the new members raffle to have a chance to win a $100 gift certificate. Two lucky winners will be drawn as soon as we have at least 50 new members.

On sale Dec. 17 - 24, 2011 Business Hours Brown sugar - $2.79 Savoy coconut cream - $1.49 Mon.-Fri. 12:00-7:00 P.M. Brown rice, 2 lbs. - $1.95 Sat. & Sun. 12:00- 5:00 PM Sotanghon, 250 g. $0.79 Telephone orders for pickup and delivery 500 g. $1.49 are accepted. Inside view of the new location of Marché Coop under the same roof as Glutinous rice, 4.4 lbs $4.39 Shopping by appointment appreciated. Gilmore College International on 5320-A Queen Mary Road where there Chili pepper dried $0.49 Call 514-485-7861 and leave a message Lima Beans, 2 lbs $1.95 at Extension 228 are many other businesses - banks, restaurants, fruit stores, etc.

www.filipinostar.org DECEMBER 2011 The North American Filipino Star 13 Education raises the bar but lowers the barriers to a rewarding career. Gilmore College Internatiional is a private college designed to give professional courses to adults who want to change or advance in their chosen careers. Our programs provide training for healthcare workers, office assistants, business owners, or certified international trade professionals. Our educational mission is to help our students in acquiring the fundamental values of caring, respect for life, ethical conduct, As a nursing aid graduate, I believe Gilmore International College 5320-A Queen Mary Road personal integrity and honesty in that self discipline and determination provides immigrants the tools for a successful career change. The (between Decarie Boulevard and Coolbrook) enabled me to achieve my goals in their daily life, and to instill in life. Gilmore International College training and the skills that I Montreal, QC H3X 1T7 them the most desirable trait of provided me the opportunity to find a learned from the program gave me doing their best in whatever role job easily. The knowledge and skills I the confidence to work as a Tel.: 514-485-7861 they may play wherever they are. have learned during the course of my Nurses’ Aide. (ADELE LASCANO, October 2009 graduate) E-Mail: [email protected] We take pride in seeing our studies gave me the edge to work in www.gilmorecollege.com the health care environment where students become successful in one needs to show the willingness to Note: Adele worked in Montreal, in (centrally located, accessible by bus many ways, not only in making a render service to the sick and the a full time position and became Nos. 17, 151, 166, and Snowdon living but also in rendering service elderly. (ETHEL TUGNA, March 2011 very busy because of the shortage of health care personnel. She has Metro) to others. graduate) (Ethel is very happy to work and care moved recently to Toronto where for people who need her services). she found a job in a hospital.

Administrative Assistant

Early Childhood Education Assistant

Gilmore College International students shown here are taking a CPR course conducted by Mitz Katz-Zeitlin of Reurgences Certified International Trade Professional Animation Reg’d., CPR specialists. held on December 4, 2011. From left: Joesie Bingayen, Annie Signey, Edison Taguba, (C.I.T.P.) Vilma Lagonilla, Mildred Mendoza, Laura Dizon, Grace Calvo and Marilou Hechanova. Courses & Programs • PSW/PAB/Nursing Aide • Office Technology - Administrative Office Assistant - Legal/Medical Secretary - Accounting Technician • Early Childhood Education Assistant • International Trade(C.I.T.P.) • Integration Program for Foreign Graduates of Nursing (Permit Pending) • Second Languages - English, French, Spanish, Mandarin, Filipino (Tagalog) • Microsoft Office, Simply Accounting • Seminars - Writing, Leadership, Gilmore College International’s new headquarters showing three business signs on each bay window - Marché Coop, Gilmore College, and the Filipino Star. An outdoor new Cooperative Education, Entrepreneurship sign for the college will be installed soon. www.filipinostar.org 14 The North American Filipino Star DECEMBER 2011 Mayor Tremblay holds round table conference with the Ethnic Media Philippine By Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi hoped to achieve in her post in the area Montreal, December 8, 2011 - of relations with cultural communities. Twelve journalists from the Ethnic Media She said that she works laterally with Cuisine & were invited to a round table conference several projects, and that she makes with Mayor Gerald Tremblay at City Hall. sure that employment is open to Favorite Food A special Dish for Holiday Entertaining

Twelve ethnic media members represented communities such as Flipino, Russian, Moslem, Chinese, Haitian, African, Armenian, Indian, Tunisian, Portuguese, Spanish, and Greek shown here for a photo op with Mayor Gerald Tremblay, and his team, December 8, 2011. He was assisted by Mrs. Mary Deros, minorities but due to budget restraints, responsible for relations with the City is unable to hire more, however, communities of diverse origins and the she said that she keeps the human youth, M. André Beauvais, directeur resources department informed about des Communications, and Ariane policies on cultural diversity issues. Lareau, Attachée de presse, Cabinet du The Mayor admitted that not maire et du comité exécutif. Nahed everything is perfect yet but he wanted to Koussa, Conseiller principal of the let us know that he is willing to listen and Mayor’s office, coordinated the event. will keep trying to improve the work he Mayor Tremblay made a brief and his team are doing for the City, opening remarks, explaining his politics aside. objectives in inviting the media to a As a result of this conference, round table conference. He said he some important information was relayed wanted to share the good news for a to the journalists - that an Interfaith change as often times it would seem dialog will be held in March 2012. It was easier to spread the bad news. He also brought up to the Mayor’s attention cited some of his administration’s if it is possible to have the City sponsor salient points of achivements. Montreal an ethnic press exhibition similar to the Beef Morcon is the only city from North America that is one being held annually in Toronto. Mayor Tremblay promised to look into Ingredients: a member of an intercultural organization internationally. Pamphlets this possibility as well as into visiting about different subjects were given to other cities besides the ones he already 3 lbs. beef shoulder roast the journalists, in particular, Montreal’s visited through the international salt & pepper Charter of Rights and Responsibilities. association of mayors. He was also garlic powder Every member of the round requested to be more present in the 1 medium sized carrot, quartered table conference was given three important celebrations of cultural groups lengthwise minutes each to ask questions, or make as it would appear that he had not been 1 celery stalk, cut into same length any comments. present in many of them in the past. as the carrot Mrs. Deros was asked what she 1 whole pickled cucumber, Beef rolls dredged in flour Philippine Trade Mission visits Montreal quartered lengthwise 3. Dredge each beef roll in flour. In a consisting of Batanes, Cagayan Valley, 1 pc. hickory smoked sausage, Montreal, December 3, 2011 - A big skillet over medium heat, fry rolls and Isabella. They stopped for a two- quartered lengthwise small group of business people in vegetable oil until they are evenly accompanied by town mayor, councilor, hour open forum with the Filipino- 4 slices hickory smoked bacon light brown. Remove from pan and Canadian community in Montreal which 1/4 cup all purpose flour visited Montreal to contact set aside. entrepreneurs who may want to invest was held at the FAMAS center from 1:30 3/4 cup vegetable oil 4. In a large saucepan over medium or to buy the products from Region 2 to 4:00 P.M. 1 medium sized onion,chopped heat, saute garlic, onions and 6 cloves garlic, minced tomatoes in 2 Tbsp oil (where you 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced fried the rolls) for a minute. Add the 1/2 cup tomato sauce stock, bay leaves, pineapple juice, 2 bay leaves soy sauce and tomato sauce. Mix 2 cups beef stock well and bring to a boil. 3/4 cup pineapple juice 5. Season with salt and pepper to 1/4 cup soy sauce suit your taste. Reduce heat to Parsley flakes, for garnish medium low. Add the beef rolls and simmer for about two hours or until Procedure: tender. Remove beef rolls from *Makes 4 rolls saucepan and allow to cool down a 1. Slice the beef into thin sheets. little. Season with salt, pepper and garlic 6. Meanwhile, strain the sauce and powder. then simmer until thick. 2. Wrap a quarter of carrot, celery, 7. Remove kitchen twine from the sausage and pickled cucumber with rolls. Cut into slices, approximately a slice of bacon. 1/2 inch thick and arrange on a From L-R: Monique Racacho, Eva Collado, Gina Medina, Miguel Decena, Vice-Mayor Audrey Put on one end of each slice of beef. serving plate. Pour sauce over the Herrero of Bogao, Cagayan; Shinette Khoury, Bienvenido de Guzman, Councilor, Tuguegarao Roll the beef, keeping the filling in roll slices. Garnish with parsley flakes the center. Tie with kitchen twine to City; Councilor Jude Bayona of Tuguegarao City; Nora Garcia, Research Specialist, DOT; then serve. Sofia Narag, Division Chief, DTI; Councilor Diosdado Felipe of Malig, Isabella; Atty Maria ensure that the roll won't open up Esperanza Banares, Dinah Fabri, Municipal Planning Officer, Mahatao, Batanes; and Mayor while cooking. Pedro Poncio. Mahatao, Batanes,

www.filipinostar.org DECEMBER 2011 The North American Filipino Star 15 imagine that Mayor Tremblay would From Page 8 Any Which Way beyond the 48 hours within which a Lina Flores and the rest of the use his own money to defray the cost complaint of transgression could be Samahang Makabayan if they were as president of FAMAS, and has been since of litigation that stemmed from his filed. smart as they thought they were? Bakit September 1, 2011 and will be until being the city mayor in the first place. Furthermore, the Samahang ngayon lang sila nagdadadakdak ng August 31, 2013. Conversely, kung mahahabla si Ms. Makabayan literally begged Ms. Dulla nagdadadakdak? Sana noon pa. Dapat na nilang itigil ang Osdon bilang presidente ng FAMAS, not to testify against Lina Flores. Why Anyway, the case has long been kanilang kahibangan at panggugulo, walang mali at masama kung pera ng then did they beg Ms. Dulla not to decided on and is now closed. at maghintay na lang sila ng susunod FAMAS ang ipambayad nila sa testify if they strongly believed that Ms. Sabi pa ni Fraud Crass na eleksyon sa 2013 at muling abogado. Isa pa, sila naman ang Flores did not violate that particular Magallanes sa kanyang malabasurang kumandidato. Kaya lang baka hindi na nagpakahirap para magkaroon ng election rule? Why didn’t they present diaryo, my days are numbered na raw. sila kwalipikadong tumakbo sa dami ganoong halaga. Hindi naman iyung their own witness to refute Ms. Dulla’s Gusto pa n’ya ngayong mag- ng election rules na kanilang nilabag mga tao na hindi tumutulong at wala testimony? And where were Nostradamus. Mas bagay sa kanya at patuloy na nilalabag. At any rate, nang ginawa kung hindi mag-criticize Magallanes, Felix Reyes and Salvador ang mag-Madam Auring na lang. we’ll deal with it in due time. lang ng mag-criticize porke hindi nila Cabugao, the supposed legal eagles Samantala, mali na naman si kayang manduhan o tutain ang mga of Samahang Makabayan, during the ***** Fraud tungkol sa perang ginastos nina nakaupo. hearing? Why didn’t they lawyer for Au Osdon ukol sa cease-and-desist ******* letter na binanggit ng una sa kanyang SINUNGALING NA, MAKULIT PA – FAMAS Miss Teen runner up in artikulo. Ang perang ibinayad ni Ms. Hindi lang sinungaling itong si Osdon sa kanilang abogado ay hindi Magallanes, makulit pa. I am pleased Miss Quebec 2012 competition nanggaling sa kaban ng FAMAS. Sa to paraphrase what he wrote in his halip, nanggaling iyon sa sariling bulsa latest tabloid, to wit, “Why does Romina Gabrielle Avelino has Quebec website soon, which will ng mga supporter ni Ms. Osdon sa Magallanes keep on banging on and successfully landed in the top 12 include two video capsules, pangunguna ni Ms. Shinette Khoury. In on and on about Lina Flores having finalists of the prestigious Miss Quebec photoshoots, chronicles and her profile fact, meron na silang $50K na been found guilty of election rule 2012 which will be held in January 2012. summary. She will also be featured in donasyon ng isang pilantropo. violation? Is he nutty or what?” Hiniram She was chosen among more than 240 two local newspapers in the city of Laval Nilalaan nila iyon sa napipintong habla ko iyon kay Fraud, iniba ko lang nang candidates from all over the province (Echo Laval and Courrier Laval) as the na posibleng isampa nina Cesar bahagya para sa aking sariling gamit. and succeeded several eliminations only Lavalloise to represent the city in Manuel sa darating na maikling (Refer to Filipino Forum, November since July 2011. She was the only the Miss Quebec pageant. panahon. But assuming without 2011, Page 33). Filipino, the only Asian, the only conceding that the money came from During the hearing of Lina immigrant and the only Anglophone that the FAMAS coffer, tama pa rin iyon Flores’ case last July 28th, the made it to the finals. During the final eliminations on October dahil bilang opisyales ng nasabing complainant presented Ms. Nora Dulla 13 2011, Romina impressed the asosasyon, at hindi bilang mga as their eyewitness. The defendant audience with her grace in dancing & pribadong tao, ang ugat ng reklamo didn’t present her own witness to rebut walking, poise and personality. She also laban kina Ms. Osdon. Ms. Dulla’s testimony. Their best notably charmed and unexpectedly Kung mahahabla si Gerald defense was based on mere astounded the judges and audience Tremblay bilang mayor ng Montreal, technicality. They insisted that the case with her unique but charismatic French tiyak na pera ng siudad ang kanyang should not have been heard in the first accent, which won her the loudest gagastusin para sa abogado. I can’t place because the complaint was filed applause among all the semi-finalists. Romina is the reigning 1st BUSINESS HOURS Runner up of the first Miss Teen Famas Montreal 2011 held in March 23, 2011 Mon. Tue. Wed. 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. where she also bagged most of the Thu. Fri. 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. special awards, namely: Miss Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Photogenic, Miss Talent and Miss Sunday Closed Congeniality. Romina is very thankful for Pork loin Beef Picnic ham her experience in the Miss Teen as well Approximately Blade steak (with bone) as the support of the Filipino communit. 15 lbs Famas has generously sponsored her 49 39 .99 . lb during the semi-finals held last month. 2. lb 3 lb 1 As a Miss Quebec finalist, Pork Head Romina will be able to participate as one Front quarter of $12.00 each of the official candidates for the Miss Half or Whole beef Approximately Canada 2012 and will also have the pork 200 lbs On Special chance to participate in other Cut & Wrapped 99 Home Smoked Meat international pageants to be sponsored 2. lb $7.99 lb by the Miss Quebec organizers, e.g. 55 Regular smoked Barbados, Guatemala, Las Vegas etc. 1. lb Beef bacon She will be doing a show for Le Château Home smoked short ribs and other known boutiques. Romina’s 49 99 webpage can be viewed on the Miss Romina Gabrielle Avelino meat 3. lb 4. lb .99 8 lb 10 lbs & over Pork Spare Ribs Fresh Belly 89 99 with skin . lb . lb 1 Frozen 3 49 Special 3. lb Ground Pork Special 1.79/lb St.Chrysostome St. Remi St. Edouard Fresh pork blood Napierville Fresh bacon Sherrington Barrington Fresh liver 203 219 202 Lacolle Hemmingford Pork skin Jackso Sortie Havelock n Road Exit No.6 Goat Canada Parc Available 219 Safari Class 15 Covey Hill Road on order Boucherie Viau Inc. U. S. A. Malone Moders Champlain 83 Covey Hill, Hemmingford QC J0L 1H0 Tel.: (450) 247- 2130 or (450) 247- 3561 Mrs. Josie Zapanta (Jhun Zapanta’s mom) and Budz Sarmiento on board an All Nippon Airways jet plane en route from Narita to Manila on November 24th. www.filipinostar.org 16 The North American Filipino Star DECEMBER 2011 ngayon ‘yung katulong ng panaksak. management section of the Parañaque ‘Yung katulong, stunned, [then] Police, there was no forced entry from FILIPINO STAR tumakbo. Nakaalis ‘yung the main door of the premises. They magnanakaw.” further speculated that the alleged thief Padilla had already reported the might’ve used the veranda to escape. S H O W B I Z G O S S I P incident to the police, and had also Gomez also clarified earlier hired her own security—something reports, which stated that the break-in that she hasn’t done before, Gomez occurred at Padilla’s condominium. Zsa Zsa petrified, incensed over noted. “Zsa Zsa and Dolphy don’t have a While the incident is still under condo [unit] although they rented one investigation, Gomez said that Zsa Zsa [in the same vicinity] during the house burglary incident deemed, “These people, they don’t renovation of their house,” he related. Chuck Gomez, Padilla’s publicist, mean naman to harm unless mahuli.” Through it all, Gomez said, related the story to Bulletin Meanwhile, Balita reported on Dec. “Nagdadasal kami na sana maayos na Entertainment in an exclusive interview. 9 that according to SPO2 Reynaldo ‘to kasi hindi tama ‘yung nangyari kasi “More than galit, natatakot siya… Arojacio and PO2 Joel Romantico of mabubuting tao ‘yung mga ‘to.” a Parang na-violate ‘yung privacy niya. the station management and detective [Sabi niya], ‘Diyos ko, bakit gano’n, na- Christian Bautista receives elusive violate ako… it’s my home, ‘yun dapat ‘yung pinaka-safe na place. Bakit Diamond Record Award gano'n?’” said Gomez. The Divine Diva lost “some cash Christian’s heartfelt renditions of and a gadget” according to Gomez. “Nakaraang Pasko,” “Gloria,” “Little Gomez added that only their Drummer Boy,” “Christmas Shoes,” helpers were in the house when the “What A Wonderful World,” among burglary happened. At the time, Padilla others. was on her way home from taping for “I feel so blessed with this the primetime drama series “Budoy.” recognition,” says Christian. “I would Dolphy was out, and their daughter Zia like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Quizon was at school. everyone who made this possible. I will Recalling the incident as told to be eternally grateful.” Zsa Zsa Padilla was on her way home him by Padilla, Gomez recounted, Asiansation Christian Bautista joins Because of this achievement, from taping ‘Budoy’ when her house got “Merong isang lalaki na maliit na naka- the elite group of awardees of Christian has been elevated to ASAP’s burglarized cap… na nakapasok sa master’s Diamond Record Awards with his “A Elite Platinum Circle, alongside music Singer-actress Zsa Zsa Padilla is bedroom ni Zsa Zsa tsaka ni Tito Wonderful Christmas” album, which legends Sharon Cuneta, Freddie scared and enraged after an Dolphy… has sold more than 200,000 units. He Aguilar, Jose Mari Chan, among unidentified man burglarized her and “‘Yung isa sa mga kasama nila sa was formally awarded last Dec. 4 others. long-time partner Dolphy’s house in bahay nakita ‘yung lalaki na during ASAP Rocks Platinum Circle “A Wonderful Christmas” and Marina Subdivision in Parañaque City binubuksan ‘yung drawer. Sumigaw Awards. Christian’s latest album “Outbound,” recently. ngayon ‘yung katulong. Tinutukan “A Wonderful Christmas” includes which includes the hit “All That’s Left,” are still available a

www.filipinostar.org DECEMBER 2011 The North American Filipino Star 17 Stop bugging me: Rhian ramos files Charice recalls memories with her restraining order against ex-bf father in a CNN interview taped

Kapunan remarked that Gumatay weeks before dad died surely had a strange way of showing “Every time, I did all the singing affection. “He’s very inconsistent. He contests and it was horrible. You start professes love, but has made Rhian from 10 p.m. in the night and you finish free game online.” at 7 a.m. in the morning and I had to go In the statement, Gumatay to school. She used to cry and she told apologized to GMA Network, which me to stop and I said ‘no’ because that earlier threatened to file a libel case was the only way we could get a lot of against him. “The decision to have an money from it. TV host Mohan “Mo Twister” Gumatay abortion was not something the “I really sacrificed everything but at (left) and actress Rihan Ramos network instructed us to do,” he said. the same time it felt great and it was Symptomatic worth it. Seeing my mom’s face every GMA 7 actress Rhian Ramos has But he went on to criticize Ramos’ time I won made me feel great,” filed a temporary protection order suit mother Clara Ramos and aunt Ida Charice on CNN. Charice said. against her ex-boyfriend, former TV5 Dubbed by Oprah Winfrey as “the Ramos-Henares, head of GMA Artist It has been two months since host Mohan “Mo Twister” Gumatay, on most talented girl in the world,” the pint- Center, and blamed them for the Charice’s father Ricky Pempengco was Monday in Muntinlupa City. size diva behind the hit song abortion. murdered in Laguna. Even before this Lorna Kapunan, Ramos’ counsel, “Pyramid,” went a long way – from Kapunan put Gumatay to task for sad chapter in her life, the international told the Inquirer that Ramos is asking appearing on different US shows (“The not sparing Ramos’ mother, who is a singer had recounted memories of her the court to stop Gumatay from further Ellen DeGeneres Show,” “Oprah,” recovering cancer patient. late father in a taped TV interview. using the media and social networking “Glee” among others) to becoming the “Rhian said that this is between the As guest on CNN’s “Talk Asia,” sites to defame her. first Asian singer in history to rank in the two of them. Mo shouldn’t involve other Charice went emotional when CNN Ramos also wants Gumatay “to Top 10 of the “Billboard 200” albums people in their quarrel,” Kapunan said. correspondent Anna Coren touched on stop calling, texting and e-mailing” her. chart in 2010. The whole issue, the lawyer the 19-year-old singer’s bitter-sweet Emotional violence Her rise to fame still overwhelms pointed out, was “symptomatic of a relationship with her then estranged “He’s still trying to get in touch with Charice, she admitted. bigger problem.” father. CNN notes that Charice’s her,” Kapunan said. “Hopefully it will “It happened so fast but at the Kapunan said it was important to interview with “Talk Asia,” which aired later become a permanent protection same time, I worked hard for it and I’m file the case against Gumatay if only Dec. 2 and 3, was filmed several weeks order.” still working hard for it,” she added. because no one is above the law. She before her father’s death. Kapunan said Gumatay violated Although a lot has changed in her elaborated: “If he is not afraid of media, Asked by Coren if she misses her Republic Act No. 9262 (Violence life now, Charice claims, “I’m still me.” he should be scared of the legal father, in tears Charice answered, “I Against Women and Children Act) by “From the hard life, from a really repercussions. Some personalities actually don’t know. I don’t know. inflicting “psychological and emotional tough life and now I actually gave stuff create scandals because they want to Maybe sometimes when I see some violence” on Ramos. that I really wanted to give to my mom,” become media sensations.” kids with their families. Sorry I keep In a video posted online last week, the singer proudly said. Gabriela hands off crying. Maybe when I ask them Gumatay claimed that Ramos had In the Philippines, Charice But they shouldn’t violate the rights sometimes, how does it feel to have a aborted their love child due to described living a “really tough life, not of other people in their quest for infamy, dad? And you know they tell me these pressures from show business’ elders really easy.” she said. “The problem with social great answers and sometimes I wish and her family. Gumatay has Her mother, Raquel Pempengco, networking sites [is that] people can my dad is here. Maybe I do, repeatedly denied uploading the video. used to be her vocal coach, Charice easily deny any wrongdoing. But sometimes. But at the same time, I Ramos said Gumatay’s actions revealed. “I really admire her. She’s anything posted online can assume a don’t because of what happened. It’s have traumatized her and her family. definitely my inspiration and I look up to life of its own.” hard. It’s really hard.” “More than what people have seen, I’ve her a lot. I mean I decided to be a Kapunan hopes the scandal would Since Mr. Pempengco left the been hurting over a longer period of singer because of her. It was a tough die a natural death soon and that “next family when she was three, Charice time,” Ramos told the media. The pain life before but now this whole thing that week, people will have another took over as head of the family. was “unnecessary and undeserved,” happened to me really helped me a breakup to feast on.” “I told my mom to stop working she stressed. Meanwhile, Gabriela, a party-list lot.” a ‘Final’ statement because it was really hard. By the age group for women, is distancing itself of six I was cooking rice and some stuff The actress added that, by filing from the issue because it found the the case, she hoped to “put an end to for my little brother. I was giving him “charges baseless and its source milk and everything… the issue now, so that I can move on.” doubtful.” Gabriela party-list Rep. Kapunan said Ramos would like Luzviminda Ilagan, however, said the Gumatay to be able to do the same. group would support Ramos “if she In his “final statement” released on asks for help.” With a report from Gil Sunday, Gumatay apologized to Cabacungan . a Ramos: “I’m sorry … that our roller- coaster relationship ended the way it did … But I love you. I always have.”

www.filipinostar.org 18 The North American Filipino Star DECEMBER 2011 Showbiz Gossip Continued from p.17 Saving what's left of Piolo Kris reveals alternate career By Nestor Cuartero path makes television such a cruel, cruel medium. It feeds on the very people law and then got married. So baka ako that work hard to keep it on top of the yung naging lawyer talaga.” game. It tells something about the Prior, Kris admitted that she honestly down side of being too loyal. The didn’t know what she could have been Piolo incident is a reminder that since she has been in entertainment for so long. loyalty isn’t always of prime “Yung totoo talaga, kung hindi po consideration in the business actors ako naging… actually wala talaga! are in. “From the time I was two years old Some people in the network talaga, gano’n kaaga, I knew I would Ex-couple Piolo Pascual (left) & KC might think Piolo’s days as an actor perform and this was it. Ito na, Concepcion may be numbered, which could have nagsasalita na ‘ko, tumutula, After that devastating KC prompted them to air the damaging nagtatalumpati, sumasayaw [pero] wala Concepcion interview on “The Buzz,” story. namang talent sa sayaw, nagta-try the task at hand confronting ABS- kumanta, nagde-declamation, umaarte- arte. ‘Yun na eh,” she related. CBN centers on how to save what’s Kris would've followed in her family's Aside from these, Kris also left of Piolo Pascual’s reputation. footsteps if she weren't Queen of Talk considered being a judge, saying, The almost tell-all interview opened the floodgates to various Just like her brother Noynoy and “Bongga ‘yun, ‘di ba?” their late parents Ninoy and Cory, “At by now, kung ako yung naging interpretations, most of them loquacious TV host Kris Aquino could judge, annulled na ‘ko. Hindi loko lang!” malicious and certainly damaging to have been in politics had she not chosen she shrilled, laughing. Piolo’s image as the country’s No. 1 to work in show business. Speaking of her marriage, Kris actor. As is common practice around “The only other thing I could see wishes for “freedom” from it this here, rumors get a life of their own, myself doing… ang nakita ‘ko siguro Christmas.Recall that she filed the mutating and permutating into various annulment case against cager husband public service talaga. At this point kung forms and shapes. KC interview on “The Buzz” Nov 27 hindi po ako nag-artista, I’m of age, I’ll James Yap last year. Before you know it, it will be probably be [a] senator [or] Senate “My Christmas wish would have senseless or even too late to arrest it. been sana a solid family, who would not President. People believe what they hear or what Following this line of thought, “Inagawan talaga si Enrile [Senate want that. Since it didn't work out, I want network could still conveniently use freedom for him and freedom for me. they want to believe, no matter how President Juan Ponce Enrile] ng incredible some of the ramifications of his story as a fodder for high ratings. posisyon!” Kris said on her show “Kris And I want finality,” she was quoted as Thus, there’s no stopping the Piolo- saying in an article on abs-cbnnews.com the original story may be. TV” on Dec. 14. KC reality-telenovela. posted on Tuesday. It’s quite ironic that KC, who She continued, “The only other thing Why should network stop? The I could think of talaga would be politics. “Right now I don't have that freedom claims she minced her words to because we [James and Kris] are not protect her ex-boyfriend, has wittingly continuing saga fetches great ratings Kung hindi ako naging celebrity after in both news and entertainment college, I would’ve taken law. Kasi yun legally free to do so. Iba kasi ang or unwittingly, turned the key to the departments. I wouldn’t be surprised ang frustration ng both mom and dad sitwasyon sa lalaki. Lalaki si James, sa public scrutiny of Piolo, the man she ko. My dad actually finished it but didn’t kanya walang mawawala. Ako, may claims she loves dearly. if the ratings are higher here than take the bar. My mom took two years of mawawala sa akin,” she added. a By speaking in riddles but when Piolo and KC co-starred in intelligently dropping clues left and “Lovers in Paris.” Marian gifts Dingdong with an right, here and there, she had Damage Control: It’s not certain successfully tarnished his image and how Piolo can weather this latest blow expensive motorcycle at Christmas the body of work he had labored for in his image, although signs of for years. damage control are brewing. Christmas na, siguro para hindi na rin In this instance, KC isn’t unlike Mo On the other hand, there are ako mag-isip, binili ko na lang,” she those who trust in the common added. Twister, who has also successfully caused a dent in the reputation of ex- characteristic among Filipinos to be Although she has invested on a ever forgetful as well as forgiving. In pricey gift, Marian doesn’t expect an girlfriend Rhian Ramos by dropping time, this too will pass and blow away, expensive gift in return. hints here and there. Some of the like nothing happened, or was ever “Hindi... alam naman ni Dong at tweets hint at, for heavens’ sake, said or done. alam naman ng mga taong malapit sa abortion! buhay ko na hindi naman ako mahirap The Questions: People now ask Meanwhile, names are being i-please. Kilala niya ako, eh… Kahit ano the following questions. dropped ridiculously, such as those of Marian Rivera & Dingdong Dantes pa ‘yan, madali akong pasayahin. Why did KC have to do that public Maricar Reyes’ and Boy Abunda’s, “Dahil kahit ako rin naman sa interview if all she wanted anyway but one wonders how this new round Spending much for a gift to family ko, kahit anong ibinibigay ko, was to let it out of her chest? of affairs can help improve or Dingdong Dantes is no big deal for wala akong ine-expect. Basta happy She could have done it with more vindicate Piolo in the long run. At Marian Rivera, who considers her actor- lang ako na masaya sila kung ano ang class and dignity if she discussed it best, they only muddle up the story, boyfriend “priceless.” binigay ko,” the actress maintained. openly among her closest friends, which is probably the point. The “Amaya” actress reportedly family, even high school classmates. I think there wouldn’t have been a spent almost a million for her Christmas Marian’s Christmas wish To do so on national TV reeks of need for damage control had not gift to Dingdong – a Ducati motorcycle. an ulterior motive. What could it be? “The Buzz” opted to mine the Piolo- “Actually, wala sa mahal ‘yan. Kung Throughout 2011, Marian feels so Why did ABS-CBN allow “The KC story in such light. anong bagay ‘yan. Kasi si Dong, hindi blessed. She’s thankful that “Amaya” is ABS-CBN should have exercised mo maitutumbas kahit gaano pa Buzz” to air that interview which has doing well in ratings. She’s also nothing to do with national security or the same good taste in judgment it kamahal or ka-cheap na regalo. Para contented with her two-year plus used in handling the Maricar Reyes kasi sa akin, priceless si Dong,” Marian the state of the nation’s economy? relationship with Dingdong. sex video scandal opposite Hayden told PEP in an interview. Piolo is the network’s leading talent, Marian says she could only wish for Kho to the Piolo-KC case. The She continued, “Deserve niya ‘yan someone who has fetched millions of continued happiness. network successfully shielded Maricar dahil sa pagmamahal na ibinibigay niya fans and pesos for the company and “Ang wish kasi, hindi nauubos sa from any interview or even the sa akin, kulang pa ‘yang materyal na isang tao. Pero siguro ako, bilang ako, who has also remained loyal to the bagay na ‘yan.” network despite offers of higher pay slightest reference to the incident. makukuntento ako kung ano ang Why hadn’t it done the same thing to Marian revealed that Dingdong was meron ako. elsewhere. Piolo, who has brought in much more surprised by the early Christmas gift “At siguro, ang isa pa, palalawakin With just the flick of a button, all prestige and profit to the network than from his girlfriend. ko na maging masaya lang ako palagi. this seems to have been forgotten for Maricar Reyes could ever dream of? a “Kasi alam ko, ‘yan talaga ang Yun ang pinakamagandang remedy sa the sake of good ratings. gusto niyang bilhin. At bilang magki- lahat ng nangyayari,” she said. a This act of careless abandon www.filipinostar.org DECEMBER 2011 The North American Filipino Star 19 like her elder sister Toni—Alex doesn’t Angelica Panganiban on overcoming insecurities forget the simple yet precious things that count. Notwithstanding her strong chubby that she felt ugly, Angelica The actress eventually triumphed “Let’s not be selfish during relationship with Derek Ramsay, Angelica related, recalling, “16 or 15 years old ako over these insecurities. Christmas but be giving, pero never Panganiban feels insecure at times when [no'n]. Kasabayan [ko] sina Heart “Ngayon… parang wala nang mas she’s with his family. [Evangelista], talagang ang papayat nila gaganda pa sa’kin,” she quipped. expect anything in return kasi once a The matter was brought up during n’on.” She apparently doesn’t have a year lang naman ang Christmas. So it’s her guest appearance on “Kris TV,” Dec. Her showbiz career proved pivotal in reason to feel insecure, what with the love better to spend it with your loved ones, 16, when host Kris Aquino asked pushing her to slim down. Angelica said being showered to her by her family, and siyempre don’t forget to go to Angelica's thoughts on the common friends and, of course, Derek. The latter church," she said. notion that a pretty lady isn’t brainy. even gave Angelica a sweet message in a Amid the blessings that her family “Siyempre may pressure,” Angelica phone interview during the same episode. received this year—something she’s began, to which Kris interjected, “Kasi “Thank you because the past few extremely grateful for—Alex wishes for matalino si Derek,at matalino ‘yung weeks I've been moody because of my "peace of mind, contentment, and angkan niya?” injury… Thank you for putting up with my happiness" not just for herself but for Answering in the affirmative, Angelica mood swings. I’ll get out of this pretty everyone as well. "'Pag meron tayo nito, added, “Mahirap kasi hindi mo alam kung soon and I know you’re gonna be there mawawala na ‘yung greed and envy. paano ka makikibagay sa kanila. Tapos and sometimes I might take you for Mas male-lessen ‘yung paggawa ng minsan, parang nagse-self pity ka na may granted because of that but trust me I do mga bagay ka na hindi mo maintindihan.” appreciate that you’re always there for masama at pag-abuso ng ibang tao (If The Kapamilya actress said that me. we have these, greed and envy will when she wants to understand “I woudn’t know what would happen vanish. Misdeeds and abuse of people something, she researches about it or to me if you weren’t there to take care of will be lessened),” said she. a asks Derek directly. me. Thanks, Babe,” said Derek, who “Nagtatanong ako, ‘Ano daw?’ Angelica admits she felt ugly when she accidentally broke his arms in a Frisbee Ganon. Polite naman sila kapag ganoon. got very chubby tournament last month. From Page 4 Citizen’s Arrest ‘Yun ang natutunan ko sa kanila, kapag The hunk-actor assured that Angelica meron kang hindi naiintindihan, she worked hard to achieve her present is the only woman in his heart and his life. build on the existing legislation and tatanungin mo lang and then, eventually, voluptuous figure. “It’s the longest relationship I have would authorize an owner, a person in marami kang matututunan, [at] mas “Hindi ako nag-rice. Tapos gutom na had. It’s the last relationship I plan to lawful possession of property, or a marami kang nalalaman,” said Angelica. gutom na ko, hilong-hilo na talaga ko, have,” he declared. person authorized by them to arrest a The actress-comedienne likewise nasa school ako buong araw tapos wala Angelica, likewise, doesn’t see person within a reasonable amount of had insecurities growing up. She akong kinakain. So tiniis ko talaga kasi herself with any other man but Derek. time after having found a person admitted to have thought that she looked kailangan. Nag-start ako crash diet “Siya na ‘yun eh, alam ko. Kaya I give committing a criminal offence either: “pale,” “walang dating,” and “walang talaga. 16 years old pa lang ako. [Then] my all. Ikaw na, kahit ano pang kontra ng on their property (e.g. the offence buhay." dahan-dahan akong nag-work out, nagji- lahat, kahit si Derek ‘yung kumontra, wala “Boring ‘yung tingin ko sa itsura ko gym ako no'n, so nakuha ko ‘yung figure siyang magagawa,” she said with a smile. occurs in their yard); or in relation to their property (e.g. their dati,” she added. na medyo okay-okay na then naging mas a It was, however, when she got too healthy ‘yung diet ko,” she recounted. property is stolen from a public parking lot). Alex Gonzaga The citizens’ arrest authority Patrick wishes Jennylyn would would only apply when it is not feasible cherishes Christmas in the circumstances for a police officer find true love with family to make the arrest. The police will Now that Jennylyn Mercado, his winning her back, but she seems very continue to have the responsibility to former sweetheart and mother of his ano na eh, nakapag-desisyon na siya preserve and maintain the public peace son, Alex Jazz, has found a new love, na ayaw na niya eh," he explained. as Canada’s first and foremost criminal Patrick Garcia wishes nothing but the law enforcement body. best for her. This bill would also reform "self- “I wish her the happiness and I defence" and "defence of property" provisions in the Criminal Code, which wish her success because she’s the the police, prosecutors and the courts mother of my kid. And of course, wala have acknowledged to be confusing and akong hangad o ginugusto sa kanya overly complex. These laws would be na masama. Lahat gusto ko okay, lahat simplified so that it would be easier to positive," said the returning Kapamilya determine whether individuals who claim actor in a recent interview on "Kris TV." to have defended themselves, others or "And I wish makahanap din siya ng Alex Gonzaga their property should be charged with or lalaki na mamahalin siya nang tunay A busy schedule doesn't just mean convicted of a criminal offence. and mamahalin 'yung anak namin.” "The legislation in no way compromises more work for TV host-actress Alex Jennylyn and Patrick were a the principle that police are the first line Gonzaga but it also reminds her about couple for over a year in 2007. When of protection against crime. Police will looking forward to spending quality they broke up, he reportedly refused to continue to have the responsibility to time with her family this Christmas. communicate with her who was then preserve and maintain public peace as pregnant with his son. It doesn’t matter, apparently, Canada’s first and foremost criminal law A ‘public’ breakup whether her family would spend the enforcement body", said Robert Goguen, Recall that their breakup was holidays abroad (like they did two years Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of mired in controversy, which even ago) or—as is the case for them this Justice and M.P. for Moncton— year—at home. What’s important, Alex involved Patrick’s mom, Bing Garcia, Patrick is back to the Kapamilya network Riverview—Dieppe. "The legislation emphasized, is they’re together. and Jennylyn’s manager, Becky where a drama series for him awaits; simply recognizes that the police cannot The in-demand princess of TV5 be everywhere at once and that Aguila. But three years since they (inset) Jennylyn parted ways, the former matinee idol told Manila Bulletin that on Dec. 25, Canadians must be able to protect maintains that he only learned their Despite this, he said he and "We’ll eat Christmas lunch together. themselves and their property in urgent relationship had come to an end Mercado have maintained a civil And usually talaga sa Christmas day, situations." through a TV interview that Jennylyn relationship for the sake of Jazz. my dad will hold Bible study with the This bill follows the introduction of the Safe Streets and Communities Act, granted. In fact, he said he was grateful to family.” one of the key initiatives the Government Garcia said: "When I saw [the the “Protégé” host for giving him an She feels the Christmas spirit best, has taken to help make Canada a safer interview], I was [like] ‘Ah, kaya pala opportunity to become a part of their though, through the family gatherings and more secure place for law-abiding hindi ko na siya [Jennylyn] ma-reach. son’s life. they hold during Dec. 24. "We invite our relatives both sa side Canadians and their families. Hindi ko na siya matawagan sa cell “I could see him anytime, any day. An online version of the phone.’” I pick him up from school, sometimes I ng father and mother namin to spend Christmas with us. That’s the time na legislation will be available at Patrick added that he had wanted bring him to school. And there’s a time www.parl.gc.ca. to set things straight between them, na he stayed with me for two weeks or we really feel Christmas. We also go to church before dinner,” the TV host- Backgrounder: Reforming Citizen’s but the actress stood by her decision. one week, and Jen allowed that,” he Power of Arrest and Self-Defence and actress enthused. “I tried talking to her. Actually, we said. a Defence of Property Provisions. a met up a few times. I tried, you know, In spite of being one of the most in- demand young personalities today— www.filipinostar.org 20 The North American Filipino Star DECEMBER 2011 Alejandrino-Tabunar named One of Memorable Christmas the Outstanding Filipino-Canadians by Binibining Pilipinas (Toronto) stories from the readers by W. G. Quiambao By W. G. Quiambao social isolation. Alejandrino-Tabunar has I It's Christmas time. The North Every night, when I was alone, I would Caring Alejandrino-Tabunar volunteered for various organizations American Filipino Star has interviewed cry. When will we be together again at was honored last December 3 as One including: Kidney Foundation, two active members of the community Christmas? I asked.” of the Outstanding Filipino-Cnadians Diabetes Foundation and Vigi Sante to share with us their memorable Finally, her question was at St. Ignatiuff, University of Toronto, Seniors Residence, a semi-private Christmas stories - sad and happy. answered in 1984 when her young by the Binibining Pilipinas (Toronto). nursing home. Two of them gladly granted our children she sponsored arrived in In addition to a Bachelor of She held various positions in request for interviews. Montreal. They were accompanied by Arts degree from the Lyceum of the many associations that include: Ebby Landicho - Landicho, a stewardess she hired to bring them Philippines, she also has a Certificate Founder, Philippine Centre Foundation auditor of the United Pilipino Seniors, here. . recalls the happy memories she had in For twenty six years now, Calamba, Laguna - the hanging of Landicho and her family are spending colourful Christmas lantern, attending Christmas together . The whole family midnight mass, preparing of will be together at her place in St. sumptuous food on the table and joy Laurent with her grandchildren. of being together with her family. But Rose Arellano - White the happy memories ended when she Christmas used to be the favorite song went to Italy and worked as a contract of Arellano, FAMAS' Director of Special Projects and Services. When she was in the Philippines, she would ask herself, "When would I experience a white Christmas that I see only in movies?" Her dream came true when she arrived in Chicago in December more than forty years ago. She was in a bus going to the hospital where she worked as a nurse when she saw the bare trees. It was a strange feeling. She knew it was winter but she did not expect what she saw. And she was at work when for the first time, she saw snowflakes. She Ebby Landicho stood by the window and watched the snowflakes with her mouth agape. worker in 1979. Her salary as a teacher “I was completely was insufficient to support her family. mesmerized, Arellano said. "I left the But after less than a year in four rambunctious boys I was taking Italy, she moved to Canada to work as care of and dashed outside." a caregiver. Unfortunately, two years Like a child, she made later, she had to go back to the snowballs, lay in the snow and stuck Philippines when her husband her tongue out to taste the snow. Her suddenly died . She was briefly co-workers were teasing her and reunited with her family. After forty days, she had to go back to Canada to work. Going back to Canada was memorable for Llandicho because Christmas was just around the corner. Her heart was breaking. Her three of Greater Montreal (2004); young children, aged 4, 7, 9, did not in Management from Concordia Chairwoman, Philippine Foundation of want her to go back to Canada but she University and a Certificate in Montreal (2009-to present); President, had no choice. Her employer was Vocational Practices from the Minister Philippine Benevolent & Scholarship waiting for her. Who would buy gifts, of Education of Quebec. Society of Quebec (1990-1994). shoes, dress for her young children on She is a community leader For her excellent services to Christmas Day now that their father who organizes and stimulates Filipinos the PBBSQ, she was awarded the had died? Contacting her children on by drawing attention to the pressing Presidential Award for Leadership. Christmas Day just to hear their voices Rose Marie Arellano needs of the community. One of her She is married to Rodolfo made matters worst because they latest projects is the Seniors in Motion Tabunar and has four children. lived far from town. She had to contact laughing at her because they could which offers activities to improve the her brother in-law who was a principal not believe that she had not seen health of seniors and reduce the risk of and begged him to bring her two snow . Rose' s friends took pictures of with him his saxophone. He did not daughters to his office where there her playing in the snow. From Page 21 Saxophone man expect that he could use it again. Six was a telephone. Her son was still very Arellano can`t help smiling whenver she recalls her first by practising at home or performing years ago, while attending an event, young to join his sisters. . experience of snow. Christmas is still for friends in the Philippines. he met an Italian man who played "Any mother would Arellanlo's favourite song but she also About six years ago, he and trumpet with an orchestra. Since the understand what I felt then," said sings “l'll be Home for Christmas.” She his wife were sponsored by their two of them shared love for music, Landicho. "I couldn't help feeling still longs for the traditional Christmas children in Toronto. Years later, when they became fast friends. Lucena was jealous of other mothers who were she used to know in the Philippines. his wife died in Toronto, his son offered to join his friend's orchestra. with their children on Christmas Day. bought him a saxophone that cost The orchestra, consisting of 20 members, has been playing at more than a $1,000. so he could play The Star is reliable, Amazing Grace and Sampaguita at churches in St. Jacques and in played at the St. Kevin’s Church last his wife's funeral. Playing these songs Somerled in the summer. Oftentimes, year during the FAMAS Christmas Party. credible, and a regular was a special tribute to his beloved it plays Ave Maria in church People become nostalgic when monthly paper. Call us at wife. processions. they hear him play 50s and 60s oldies 514-485-7861 and Lucena is often invited to When he moved to Montreal music but they enjoy them. advertise your business. to be with his daughter, he brought perform in Filipino functions. He *****

www.filipinostar.org DECEMBER 2011 The North American Filipino Star 21 bookcase, pick him up a copy of Evan Dreaming of a Wine Christmas Dawson's "Summer in a Glass," which Lucena - By David White chronicles the story of New York's Finger Lakes wine region by profiling 12 The Saxophone Man always feel like "one friend key winemakers and growers. I've read W. G. Quiambao recommending a great bottle of wine about 25 wine books this year, and Playing saxophone for moré to another." Dawson's was my favorite. than six decades could be boring to Today, they offer artisanal Actual wine also works. But to others but 73-year old Marcial Lucena wines from across California at a make an impression, you'll want still finds it interesting and exciting . number of different price points. The something that isn't easily found at the That was his first love. entry-level option -- the "Premier Club" supermarket but is also recognizable. -- starts at $49.95 per shipment. Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is TastingRoom.com is also always memorable, and Hall Winery, worth exploring -- as it literally brings Chimney Rock, and Robert Craig would the tasting room to your living room. fit this bill. They're pricey but delicious. Launched just two years ago by a Of course, if you go this route, don't successful tech entrepreneur, the hesitate to ask the knowledgeable company transfers wine into miniature staffer at your local wine shop for bottles (in a sealed, zero-oxygen advice! The gift-giving season is in full chamber), allowing consumers to If you're shopping for your boss swing. sample a host of wines without having or a client, personalized and custom- For those looking to impress a to purchase an entire bottle. Wine engraved wine bottles are fun. At wine enthusiast, it's a daunting time. club membership starts at $29.99 per PersonalWine.com, you can do this on Department stores offer little that would month. bottles ranging from $20 (for a Chilean please an oenophile, and the staff at Newspaper wine clubs are Chardonnay) to $119 (for a world "I was in 4th grade when I first Best Buy doesn't know a thing about also fun, especially for a novice. Over famous Super Tuscan). learned how to play saxophone," said wine. The internet, meanwhile, the past three years, the New York Lucena.."My music teacher taught me. presents too many options! Times, Wall Street Journal, USA Whatever you do, don't waste money. Initially, I wanted to play violin but I Relax. Wine lovers are easy to Today, and many other papers have I've never seen the point of a knew I could play saxophone better.” please, regardless of your budget. entered the wine business. Wine wine stopper (even if it looks like a Because of his talent in music, Here are my top picks. Spectator reviewed these clubs, and chimney, with Santa perched on top), Lucena was given a scholarship in high If you're shopping for a friend gave its highest praise to the New and no wine enthusiast wants a kitschy school. He was a member of the high or family member, I'd suggest a wine York Times for offering "the most wine glass, even it's painted with a school band. After high school, he club membership. Whether you're interesting selection in terms of both drunken reindeer. The latest gadgets, joined the Aviya and His Lyric Boys spending money on a complete novice quality and diversity." These can be too, are typically a waste -- cordless Orchestra in Arilao, Nueva Vizcaya in or the next Iron Sommelier, everyone pricey, though. The New York Times' rechargeable wine bottle openers the late 50s until 1969. The band, which appreciates trying new wines. "Sampler" club costs $90 per always seem more difficult to use than consisted of 15 members, played To start, check out the shipment. traditional waiters tools. during town fiestas in carnival. He California Wine Club The holidays are supposed to recalls with fondness the songs the (CAWineClub.com). Books also make good gifts. be a time about giving, but receiving is orchestra played like Day by Day, You About 20 years ago, the If you're shopping for a also fun. So hopefully, the wine Never Know and Moonlight Serenade. owners -- Bruce and Pam Boring -- budding oenophile, pick her up a enthusiasts in your life will share the Although he was at the peak of realized that their favorite wines came copy of Kevin Zraly's "Windows on the bounty -- and pull some corks with you his popularity during his heyday, he left from small, family-owned wineries in World Complete Wine Course." For this season! the orchestra in 1969 to devote more California recommended by friends. good reason, it's been in print for David White, a wine writer, is the founder time with his growing family. But he still Too often, these wines were difficult to nearly 30 years. and editor of Terroirist.com. His honed his skill in playing the saxophone find across the country. So they If you're shopping for a wine columns are housed at Wines.com, the launched a wine club to that would enthusiast who already has a stocked fastest growing wine portal on the See Page 20 Saxophone man Internet. The North American Filipino Star Classified Ads ADVERTISING DUPLEX FOR RENT DRIVING LAWYER CDN Carlton, near hospital, LAWYER IN DIVORCE SEPARATION Classified Ads Licensed driving instructor shopping center, Metro, quiet street, CHILD CUSTODY ALIMONY most economical way to advertise! 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The senator added that the new ICC judges cannot assume office Int'l Criminal Court Will not immediately resign immediately “until we are officially abs-cbnNEWS.com Posted at honor for the Philippines actually and Winning a seat in the ICC called to report for work”. would mean that Santiago would have 12/13/2011 8:59 AM | Updated as of for President Aquino who nominated “There are 18 judges in the to give up her post a member of the 12/13/2011 1:07 PM me,” Santiago said in an interview with ICC. The rule is, once a judge has Philippine Senate. The new post has a MANILA, Philippines (2nd ABS-CBN News Channel. participated in the trial of a case, he 9-year term of office. UPDATE) - Senator Miriam Defensor- Santiago won as judge in the has to stay beyond his retirement “I'd have to resign. But I don't Santiago has been elected as a judge ICC elections during the 10th session date, until after the trial is finished.” have to resign immediately. People in the International Criminal Court, the of the Assembly of States Parties in “That is why I will not leave think that once I am elected I have to Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) New York on Monday (US time). the Philippine Senate immediately. I take the first plane out to The Hague said on Tuesday morning. This marks “It’s really an achievement of might stay for 6 months or a year or and sit in a court. No. I will take my the first time a female judge from a our people there in the UN. It’s really more. I can continue my work in the oath of office in March together with 6 developing Asian country has been our Department of Foreign Affairs that Senate but once I am called to The other new judges. They are still in the elected to the ICC. needs to be congratulated,” she said. Hague I will resign,” she said. process of being voted upon. The “I will be the first Filipino to sit She topped the first round Philippines was number 1 in the first there. Plus, I will be the first Asian from with 79 out of 104 votes, making her 'More than qualified' round of voting. That is something for a developing country. So this is an the first to be elected out of 18 Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario hailed Santiago's victory, saying the senator is more than qualified for the post of ICC judge. “Dr. Santiago is eminently qualified. She has shown competence and commitment in defense of the rule of law. She has demonstrated her intelligence and legal acumen through her decisions that have been cited by the Philippine Supreme Court. She has shown independence and integrity in her actions. She is more than qualified for this position,” del Rosario said. “This is the message that we emphasized in the campaign. We are pleased that the international community has listened to us. Indeed, it is a new day for the Philippines, a day of pride for our country and a day of honor, knowing that this is a tremendous responsibility and mandate placed upon our compatriot." Philippine Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Libran N. Cabactulan, likewise, praised Santiago's win. “Dr. Santiago’s triumph is a victory for the entire Philippines and a demonstration of the international community’s complete faith and confidence in her outstanding abilities and of the country’s commitment to the global fight against impunity... We are elated that a Filipina will sit as Judge at the International Criminal Court." - With report from ANC, Don Tagala, ABS- CBN North America News Bureau

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6430 Victoria Avenue Sale Prices valid from Montreal, QC Tel.: 514-733-7816 Dec. 19, 2011 to Jan. 3, 2012

Bulilit sweet longganisa Diwa bihon, 454 g Grated Cassava Coconut Strings Coconut Gel 2 / $3.00 $1.99 pack 2 / $3.00, 79¢ each $1.99 jar $1.29 jar

Grace condensed milk UFC Spaghetti Sauce 1 kg Lorin’s Soy Sauce Silverswan Soy Sauce $1.99 can $2.79 $1.49/ bottle UFC Cane Vinegar $1.59 bottle 99¢ bottle

Del Monte Spaghetti Sauce Eggplant Opo $1.29 lb 560 g - $1.99 pack Del Monte Fruit Cocktail Lorin’s Vinegar $1.29 lb $6.99 can 99¢ bottle

Oishi, hot & reg. Pork Legs UFC Pancit Canton 454 g Mama Sita mix Selecta Ice Cream Chicken Legs 2/$1.00 99¢ lb $1.99 pack 79¢/ 3/$2.29 $7.99 each 99¢ lb

www.filipinostar.org 24 The North American Filipino Star DECEMBER 2011

www.filipinostar.org