Manila Mail Issue #6B

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YEAR 26/ ISSUE 6 • 11-17, FEBRUARY 11-17, 2015 FEBRUARY 2015

Kay Habana’s concert for elders at Carnegie Hall-a sweet success

BY MARIVIR R. MONTEBON Manila Mail New York Correspondent New York City — The kundiman (Filipino love songs) filled the halls of the Carnegie last night. I had my share of nostalgia, and fun too, in paying tribute to grandparents and senior citizens.

Affectionately put together by artist and producer Kay Habana, it was a beautiful night of stunning talents from beginning to end of the two-hour show, meant to support the growing needs of seniors in the Fil-American community in New York. Tanging Yaman, Ugoy ng Duyan, Usahay, Handog, Ikaw, Gaano Ko Ikaw Ka Mahal, all Filipino songs, and a selection of Broadway and old favorites were featured for grandparents.

I missed my own grandmother for I know I would have taken her to watch the ‘Handog kay Lolo at Lola’ (A Tribute to Grandparents) concert at Weill Hall. The beloved late Genara Rubi would have loved it, as did everybody.

An AARP research study showed that most Filipinos honor and take care of their aging parents and grandparents under their own roof, even in the US. Financial and institutional issues that come with their care have been identified and needing community response.

Ms. Habana is a classical singer in New York who has graced several events at the Consulate General in New York and various offices of the United Nations. She is a member of the San Lorenzo Ruiz Choir of New York and has produced a CD album titled “Sacred” which features her and tenor Rogelio Penaverde Jr. A Journalism graduate, Ms. Habana also writes her blog “Sweet Abundance: Food for the Stomach and Soul” for OSM! online magazine and runs her catering business, SweetHabana.

She co-produced the tribute to

F i n d i n g Neverland, among other nationally toured shows.

Act 2 featured the Philippine Chamber Singers-Los Angeles who sang mostly Filipino songs. “Usahay” hit right on the spot, for it was the song which I remember Lola Nara would always hum or belt out. This poignant song I sang to her too, when I massaged her in the rare times that I took care of her in the last few years of her life.

The PCSLA is a rising favorite in Los Angeles which began KA AN KAYY HAB HABAN ANAA with New York Consul General Mario de Leon as a Christmas caroling group in grandparents with Blue Sevilla, 2004. It aims to promote Philippine TOFA NY, and Cassanova Entertain- culture and arts through music. It ment. has performed twice at the HollyLast night’s Act 1 was a per- wood Bowl with international artfectly delightful opening with young ists. singer Bonale Fambrini who has Its last featured song, the Coappeared in several Broadway pro- conut (Ryan Cayabyab) animated ductions, among them, as Gavroche the audience who sang along with in Les Miserables and as Charlie in the singers…the coconut nut is not Willy Wonka Jr. Performing with him a nut. were equally endearing Gabby Dennis Sy was an electrifying Gutierrez, Sydney Veloso, and intermission treat, who acknowlPhoebe Young who all had perform- edged that grandparents are indeed ing stints on Broadway and other the cornerstone of strong Filipino regional shows. family ties, aside from being generTheir pianist and vocal coach ous sources of treats. For his part, was Julia Mendelsohn, a renowned these were chocolates, when his music teacher and director in NYC parents would deny those from him. whose students have made their The night moved on melodiway through the stages of Matilda, ously towards the suite of Ms. How the Grinch Stole Christmas, CARNEGIE CARNEGIE, B6

MILA KUNIS in a Michael Cinco wedding gown in Jupiter Ascending

THE AUTHOR with Michael Cinco during LA Fashion Week 2013

Filipino fashion designer Michael Cinco dresses up Mila Kunis in Jupiter Ascending LOS ANGELES --- How do you dress up a goddess queen about to get married? If it was our dream, it would be in a breathtaking Michael Cinco wedding gown, of course.

But that’s exactly what happened when Mila Kunis, portraying a reincarnation of the Queen Mother in the sci-fi film of Lana and Andy Wachowski, “Jupiter Ascending,” was about to get married. She wore an ethereal, out-of-this-world Michael Cinco wedding gown.

Portraying Jupiter Jones, Mila unexpectedly sees her ordinary life on Earth change when she meets Channing Tatum, who is portraying Caine Wise, a genetically engineered ex-military hunter.

So how did the Catbalogan, Samar-born Dubai-based international fashion designer, Michael Cinco, get the job of dressing up Mila Kunis for that scene, we asked.

“I received an email from costume designer Kym Barrett in Fall 2012 telling me that she saw my gown in Swarovski's Salt Magazine,” Michael told us by email. “She contacted me if I was interested to collaborate with her regarding some costumes for Mila Kunis in the new project of The Wachowskis’ ‘Jupi-

ter Ascending.’ She asked for some dresses that she saw from my previous collection to be sent to London while they start filming for test shots.”

Michael said he didn't meet Kym Barrett but “we just discussed everything through email and phone.

Swarovski sponsored the crystals I used on the dresses.”

He also revealed that he was not able to meet Mila herself. “They just sent me her measurements and all the details of the dress,” he disclosed. “They asked me to go to London and meet the stars while filming to personally fit Mila Kunis’ dress but I declined because that was the time I was making the wedding dress of Russian President Vladimir Putin's niece. I never saw Mila in person but I liked her in ‘Black Swan.’”

Although Michael has dressed up a number of Hollywood celebri-

ties already such as Britney Spears, Lady Gaga, Sofia Vergara, Tyra Banks, Naomi Campbell, Fergie, and Paris Hilton, to name a few, this is his first time to be involved in a big budgeted Hollywood movie.

He said of the experience, “It was an altogether unique and fun experience working for ‘Jupiter Ascending.’ The sci-fi movie is a potential blockbuster and being part of it is just amazing.

“As the premise of the film was in outer space, with Mila as a reincarnation of the Queen Mother, the challenge was indeed immense. I was inspired by heavenly goddesses and came up with a beautifully surreal bride in Mila, in nude mesh, silver lace, embellished with red ceramics and Swarovski crystals. The headdress was made by the costume designer Kym Barrett and it was part of the design.”

Michael, who recently made the breathtaking wedding gown of Filipina actress Marian Rivera when she got married to actor Dingdong Dantes in the Philippines, narrated how he got the good news of his Hollywood gig, “I was on a holiday DESIGNER, B2 DESIGNER

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entertainment

FEBRUARY 11-17, 2015

TFC offers English subtitles, reaches out to non-Filipino speaking audience REDWOOD SHORES, Calif.-Living its mission to be in the service of the Filipino wherever they may be and in whatever generation they belong, ABS-CBN TFC made the bold move recently to subtitle most of its popular programs in English. Now, fans of current top-rated Filipino soaps like Dream Dad, Forevermore, Oh My G and Two Wives, or talk shows like Kris TV and The Buzz, or kids shows like Matanglawin and Wansapanataym, can share their passion for Filipino content and viewing experience with non-Filipino speaking family and friends.

“This TFC initiative is an investment in the overseas Filipino family who we have pledged to serve and by that we mean all members of the family,” said ABS-CBN Global COO Raffy Lopez. “Most of the elders in a migrant Filipino family want to watch TV shows in the language that they grew up. But the younger ones have acquired the language of the new home country or their non-Filipino spouses speak in English which is spoken in many countries as a native or second language. Now, they can all gather around the television as a family again, watch, understand and enjoy TFC’s globally popular and award-winning Filipino shows.

Language has ceased to be a barrier in appreciating Filipino content.”

The subtitling of TFC shows started in 2012 with Maala-Ala Mo Kaya (MMK - Would You Remem-

ber?), the longest running and award-winning Filipino drama anthology.

This move was warmly received because many found it as an opportunity to discover or reconnect to Filipino culture and heritage, allowing those of Filipino ethnicity but can’t speak the language to understand the show’s characters and situations, and appreciate the underlying Filipino values behind their attitudes, behaviors, beliefs and decisions.

In the next years, TFC followed through by subtitling a few more shows, most notably Be Careful With My Heart which became one of the most beloved Filipino series in the world. Today, many subscribers have expressed their appreciation for this culturally considerate move of TFC and actually called to give their feedback: “I’m very happy that you have finally added English subtitles.

Please add more. I, like many of my friends, either have an American wife or American husband that can’t follow the shows without the subtitles. Please consider adding them to all of your shows and movies It will insure that I stay a subscriber and will build your business as many Americans will be interested. Thank you. “- subscriber from the Middle East ‘I just logged on to watch the most recent Be Careful with My Heart with English subtitles... but

Designer... in Paris when I got the email. I always receive many emails from Hollywood stylists asking for couture gowns for music videos or red carpet events for Hollywood stars. I did some costumes for TV and some reality shows before like ‘America's Next Top Model’ and ‘Reign,’ but this time, it's quite different because it's my first time to be asked for a big-budgeted Hollywood movie. I was in a cafe in Les Marais when I received the email and I was just like ‘Oh, okay.’ That's it.”

So does he see himself getting more involved in Hollywood movie costume designing?

Michael simply replied, “One of the reasons why I became a fashion designer is my undying love for classic Hollywood films with beautiful costumes. My alltime favorite movie is ‘My Fair Lady.’ I was so fascinated by the costumes made by Cecil Beaton and it's my ultimate dream to design and create the whole costume of a remake of that movie.

“Designing movie costumes and designing a collection is almost the same. You have to visualize a design that will create a story or a character. When you design a collection, you create a fantasy, a dream and you need to tell a story for the people watching your show to understand your theme and ideas. On the other hand, when designing costumes for a movie, you need to create a dress from the story of the movie to the character portraying the role.”

As Michael once told us, “I grew up in the picturesque town of Catbalogan, Samar which provided me with a lush setting where my imagination would run in wild abandon. As a child, I remember watching classic Hollywood movies in black and white. I was so amazed by the couture gowns worn by Hollywood icons like Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, Marlene Dietrich and Joan Crawford. I think those were the fashion icons who inspired me to be a fashion designer.”

ABS-CBN/TFC

TOD TODAAY, both Filipino and English-speaking TV viewers all over the world can enjoy the best of Filipino content and understand Filipino culture and values more though subtitled programs on TFC. Clockwise from top left, subtitled top-rated shows “Bagito”, “Kris TV”, “Forevermore” and “Bandila”.

“I would like to thank Ms Charo have 4 children and they are interwas so surprised and happy to see additions to the English subtitles Santos, president of ABS-CBN, be- ested to watch all Kapamilya category. I have requested more En- cause I requested her if she can put teleserye but they don’t understand glish subtitled programs and finally English subtitles on all teleseryes it... I think if you have subtitled in saw more added... I am looking for- and talk shows. There are millions English, your membership will inward to much additions to this cat- of Filipino Americans who want to crease by another million. Thank egory.” - subscriber from Hawaii, watch TFC teleserye but they can’t you and hoping for more success understand the Filipino language. I of the Kapamilya Channel.” - subUS

scriber from US “The purpose of communication is to be understood. TFC takes pride in the quality of its Filipino shows, the stories they tell and the life lessons they give. Our shows have something to share with the world. Ultimately, this is all about providing an increasingly diverse world with full access to Filipino content with the end that we understand each other a little better every day,” said Lopez.

Here is the current list of TFC shows with English subtitles: DRAMA PROGRAMS • MMK • All teleseryes (and their replacements) • OMG • FlordeLiza • NKNKK • Bagito • Dream Dad • Forevermore • Two Wives NEWS • Bandila VARIETY AND TALK • ASAP* (date of availability of subtitled version to be announced) • KrisTV • Aquino and Abunda • The Buzz • Rated K KIDS • Matanglawin • Wansapanataym • Luv U

‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ gets R-18 rating in the Philippines Relax, ‘Fifty Shades’ fans – you will be able to see the movie in the Philippines MANILA, Philippines – Fifty Shades of Grey will be released in Philippine cinemas on February 11. It has been given the R-18 rating, according to the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB).

“We just released minutes ago the permit to exhibit the movie Fifty Shades of Grey, with a rating of R-18, with certain requirements for the information and welfare of the viewing public.

As viewed by our Review Committee, no cuts. We noted, however, that the film producer already introduced some measures of self-regulation into the film prior to review,” said Toto Villareal, chairman of the MTRCB, in a text message to Rappler sent Thursday, February 5. However, some fans may be disappointed as the film that was reviewed by the board does include blurs and screen blocks.

To address the sensitivities with regard to the sex scenes in the movie, “there is also the requirement to flash a ten-second disclaimer and notice at the start of every showing,” he said.

Here’s part of the disclaimer: “This movie was classified as is and in its entirety with noticeable BLURS and SCREEN BLOCKS introduced by the film producer prior to its submission for review.

Villareal further clarified this at the Pinoy Media Congress Thursday, February 5. “Therefore, when our review committee saw the movie yesterday, may mga blurs na, may mga itim-itim na doon na spots covering yung mga dapat macover.”

(There were blurs, there were black spots covering what should be covered.)

“We’d just like to make it clear na hindi kami ang nag-introduce doon, because ang policy po namin ay classification at hindi censorship. However, we appreciate of course this act of self-regulation on the part of Columbia Pictures.”

(We’d just like to make it clear that we weren’t the ones who introduced this, because our policy is classification and not censorship.)

The disclaimer also goes on to say

SCREENSHOT of the movie Fifty Shades of Grey this: The public is advised of some scenes of nudity, strong and/or sexual language, and sexual aberrational behavior with elements of bondage, dominance, sadism and masochism.”

“Being R-18, no minors shall be allowed to view the movie,” concluded Villareal via text.

The film, adapted from E.L James’s 2011 bestselling novels, contains a number of sex scenes as the nature of the story is focused on a sexual relationship between CEO Christian Grey and college

student Anastasia Steele.

An R-18 rating, according to the MTRCB, only allows admission to viewers 18 years old and above. Viewers and parents are advised that the film may contain “themes, language, violence, nudity, sex, horror, and drugs that may not be suitable for children below eighteen (18) years of age.”

The film has already released two trailers and several full scene clips. It will premiere in the Philippines on February 11.

specials

FEBRUARY 11-17, 2015

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When the bullies are doctors and senior nurses: How FilAm nurses cope

BY CRISTINA DC PASTOR THE doctor was performing a delicate surgery when the scrub nurse handed him the wrong instrument. The surgeon was furious and out of irritation pushed the petite Filipino nurse until she fell from her riser. She was new to the hospital.

In another incident, a senior nurse in a Manhattan hospital berated a younger nurse, calling her “useless.” Both nurses are Filipino.

The doctor and senior nurse in both anecdotal accounts would be considered liable for “verbal abuse,” a situation that contributes to “unfavorable” working conditions in hospitals.

According to a 2013 study by Prof. Carol Brewer of the School of Nursing at University at Buffalo in New York, such conditions can endanger the safety of patients.

Brewer surveyed 1,328 registered nurses (RN) and found that they experienced “high level” (more

than five times over a period of three months) and “moderate level” (one to five times over the same period) of abuse. What the study also uncovered is that the abuse is usually directed at new nurses.

Rank Nur, an RN from a hospital in Queens, said “bullying” by doctors is an issue commonly experienced by foreign-born nurses. It is a gripe among first-generation Filipino immigrant nurses.

“This is the generation where the nurse is so obedient and is afraid to speak up, especially when confronted by a person of authority,” said Nur when interviewed by The FilAm. “She would rather suffer in silence even though she is angry and trembling in fear.”

Sometimes, according to longtime RN Menchu de Luna Sanchez, the abuse comes from fellow nurses especially those in senior positions.

Incidents of senior Filipino nurses bullying younger Filipino nurses are not uncommon.

“It happens. Pilipino kapwa Pilipino,” said Sanchez, who was honored at the White House as the one of the Superstorm Sandy heroes. “We would hear young nurses say, ‘Why are they so mean to us?’”

Sanchez said she may have experienced a form of bullying when she was new nurse, but she wasn’t sure because while they did not scream at her, they made her feel unwelcome. In the hospital where she worked, the senior nurses would not acknowledge her except to give her orders.

“They didn’t even smile at me,” she said.

Whenever she received praise from patients, the veteran nurses would give a shrug of indifference.

Instead of commending her for her work, they gave her the cold treatment.

“It’s not a nice atmosphere where you don’t want to come to work for fear of not being accepted.

That’s why many young nurses just

quit,” she said.

Some veteran nurses take their seniority way too seriously, while others use meanness as a ‘rite of passage’ to test which newbie nurse will endure.

Sanchez has heard of comments, such as “I wouldn’t be where I am today if not for hard work. It’s a tough place and only the fittest survive.”

Sally Nunez, CEO of RN Express Staffing Registry in Manhattan, shared her own experience with “nurse-to-nurse” bullying. She was then a young “floater,” a nurse who has no permanent assignment when she became the object of bullying by a senior nurse from a Caribbean country.

“I reported to her unit and asked where I could find the tubes and other supplies,” said Nunez, who looked back at her early years with hilarity. “Where it’s always been,” the charge nurse replied. Nunez had to ask again because such supplies

were located in different parts of a station depending on the hospital setup. Instead of being helped, she was given a dressing-down. Nunez remembered ending her shift and crying as she walked home to her apartment.

“The senior nurses, some of them act like gods,” she noted, an observation echoed by Sanchez.

Years later, the tables turned and there was a change in management. By this time, Nunez had a permanent station. The charge nurse who used to boss her around was shuffled and assigned to her floor.

“I did not do to her what she did to me, but in my mind I was so happy to hear her speak politely and humbly to all of us,” she recalled.

Nunez does not recall a run-in with any doctor, but with her long experience as an RN, she has witnessed doctors cover up for one another. A nurse with a complaint against a doctor is likely to face this “brotherhood” of doctors who will

vouch for each other. No one backs up the nurse because, she said, nurses do not always close ranks.

A 2009 U.S. study cited in The Francis Report, a medical resource, states that bullying does not always involve yelling and screaming.

Nurses who are made to feel humiliated and intimidated are considered victims.

“Bullying occurred most frequently in medical surgical care (23 percent), critical care (18 percent), emergency areas (12 percent), operating room/post anaesthesia care unit (9 percent) and obstetric care (7 percent),” said the report. Perpetrators are usually senior nurses (24 percent), charge nurses (17 percent), nurse managers (14 percent) and physicians (8 percent).

Nur said she could understand that surgeons are more likely to be on edge because of their “high anxiety work” in operating rooms. But to expect no gaffes from nurses who assist them, “that is impossible.”

Gossip as a form of bullying

BY CRISTINA DC PASTOR THEY continue to walk the corridors of every hospital and nursing facility, these doctors with a huge ego and a ‘God Complex.’

Some senior nurses walk in their shadow.

“These are doctors who think just because they have many years of education they know everything, and no one can tell them what to do. They have what is known as the God Complex,” said nurse educator and legal consultant Nemcy Cavite Duran in an interview with The FilAm. “Some of them look down on young graduates and foreignborn nurses.They do not have confidence that these nurses will be able to assist them competently.”

As an entry-level nurse some 20 years ago, Duran witnessed how some nurses would offer their seats at the nursing station to physicians and cater to their every whim. She was surprised to see such attitude of submissiveness in U.S. hospitals.

Nurse-to-nurse bullying, she noted, continues to this day, usually a result of unmet expectations.

A new nurse, for example, expects guidance from a superior, while the

OBITUARY

Ponciano Capamo M. Patawaran, 80 IT is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ponciano (Capamo) M. Patawaran on January 29, 2015, at the age of 80. He was born and raised in Minalin, Pampanga, Philippines. He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Lillian; his children: Joey (Pinky) of New Jersey; Carol (Amado); Mae; Frederick; Nikki; Edsel (Ifchelle); Jun (Lee); Blake; all of Daly City; his sisters: Rosalie of Edmonton, Alberta; Zenaida (Rodolfo) of San Francisco; younger brother Manuel, Jr. of Edmonton, Alberta; Aunt/Uncle Elisa/Marino Reyes of San Francisco; and grandchildren; cousins in California , Seattle, Edmonton and Minalin; countless friends and fellow members of the Rotary Club in Cardona, Rizal, Philippines. He is predeceased by his parents Maria Luz and Manuel, Sr. of Minalin.

Visitations and prayer services will be held on Wednesday , Feb. 11 and on Thursday, Feb. 12 from 5 to 9 pm at Cypress Lawn Funeral Home, 1370 El Camino Real, Colma, Calif. Reception at 6 to 8:30 pm.

Funeral Mass on Friday, Feb. 13 at 10:30 am at St. Andrews Catholic Church (1511 Southgate Ave., Daly City) followed by Christian burial at Cypress Lawn Hillside Gardens.

Reception to follow at Fort Mckinley Restaurant, 101 Brentwood Dr., South San Francisco. A special note of gratitude goes to all the medical staff at Seton Medical Center in Daly City.

seasoned nurse expects a fresh graduate to hit the ground running because she just came out of nursing school and all duties of a nurse are still fresh in her mind. “The senior nurses expect the young to function independently, and yet the young nurses expect mentorship and guidance because they want to avoid medication errors,” she said.

“I still see this from time to time.”

The American Nurses Association (ANA) recognizes that nurseto-nurse interactions and physician-to-nurse interactions are the “top two sources of conflict” in the health care work place. The ANA developed an anti-harassment manual where bullied nurses will find the resources to get help, and also to foster an environment of team work. Bullying is not all cursing and barking orders. It can be an act as subtle as gossip, according to a study in the American Journal of Nursing (AJN).

“Relational aggression is a type of bullying typified by various forms of psychological (rather than

physical) abuse. It includes such behaviors as gossiping, withholding information, and ostracism,” said the AJN study entitled “Bullying Among Nurses” authored by Penn State University Prof. Cheryl Dellasega. She has conducted extensive research on bullying among women. The introduction of Cultural Competence Training in many facilities sought to address diversity-related conflicts, said registered nurse Rank Nur, who works in a hospital in Queens. Nur has participated in training workshops where the staff is taught to be respectful of their colleagues’ ethnic background. Part of the training uses the TeamSTEPPS approach, a form of workplace interaction that promotes teamwork.

“It originated from NASA following an accident involving one Apollo mission. Investigation showed that some lower level staff saw something amiss but did not speak up because they were afraid to rock the boat or be blamed,” explained Nur.

“In such workshops,” she continued, “Health workers learn to speak up, but to speak up using TeamSTEPPS language.”

For example, a nurse who may want to call a doctor’s attention about her concerns can say: “Excuse me, doctor, I’m using TeamSTEPPS here. I am uncomfortable about patient safety when I see that…” The doctor is likely to acknowledge the nurse’s comment and act appropriately.

Language is a big part of misunderstanding in a multicultural setting, said Duran, who is also a speaker on ‘overcoming language barriers,’ one of the components of diversity training. She remembered asking a Filipino nurse why she refused to speak to a particular doctor. “After he cursed me out?” the nurse said. The two had a common patient, and needed to work together.

In conducting training, Duran would emphasize communication that is respectful of other cultures and articulated in a moderate volume. “There are many problems caused by miscommunication,” she

said. Sometimes, even if two people speak the same language, there may be different interpretations of a common procedure or concept. Such barrier may lead to a delay or confusion in providing care to the patient.

“It’s all about the patient,” she said. Both Duran and Nur believe diversity training has paved the way in creating a culture of courtesy among health care professionals and workers. “I’ve seen some changes,” said Duran.

In some cases, Filipino nurses are left to deal with bullying using their own survival tactics, especially when the supervisors – the people who are supposed to protect them – are the perpetrators.

Some would report and suffer the consequences. Others ignore the problem hoping it will go away.

Many take the easiest way out and just quit, Filipino nurses being in high demand anyway. Very few would seek counseling. There was a time, according to some of the nurses interviewed, bullying was seen as one of the reasons – together with immigration restrictions — health care had a scarcity in

nurses. The retention rate was dismal.

There is no coordinated approach Filipinos nurses react to bullying, especially when the enforcer is a ‘kababayan.’ The FilAm reached out the Philippine Nurses Association of New York for comments but did not receive a reply.

RN Menchu de Luna Sanchez said being friendly has helped her through her early years as a nurse.

“I just did my job, and when I had some food for lunch I’d offer them,” she said. In time, they came to accept her and her amiable ways.

While there remains a large population of Philippine-born nurses who are non-confrontational, that may be changing with the entry of U.S.-born nurses who are more assertive and articulate.

“These are the nurses who are likely to tell doctors, look we are supposed to be partners. You care for the patients, so do we. In fact, we spend more hours with them than you do,” said Duran.

They are, without any ambiguity, the nurses who would “speak up and fight back,” said Nur.

B4 HOME&hEALTH Handling the risks of high home humidity FEBRUARY 11-17, 2015

A FEW simple steps can help you avoid a common situation that could put a damper on your indoor fun and good feelings.

The Problem According to the Environmental Protection Agency, health problems associated with poor indoor air quality include eye irritation, allergies, headaches, and respiratory problems such as asthma.

These can be directly related to the presence of mold and dust mites in the home.

Research has found that common household dust mites may be a factor in as many as 80 percent of asthmas, hay fevers and other allergic ailments. Along with respiratory symptoms, high levels of dust mite allergens have also been correlated with atopic dermatitis, characterized by itchy, irritated skin.

Dust mites are microscopic but hardy creatures that live and multiply easily in warm, humid places.

They thrive at temperatures at or above 70 degrees with a relative humidity of 75 percent to 80 percent, but, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immu-

KEEPING RELA TIVE humidity levels low is the best way to reduce dust mites and RELATIVE mold growth in your home. nology, you can reduce dust mites clude coughing, wheezing, running if you keep your home’s humidity eyes and nose, skin rashes, muscle below 50 percent. aches, loss of appetite, inability to Mold is a fungus that feeds on concentrate, and fatigue.

THE SIGNS organic substances and survives in moist conditions. Besides causing While some evidence of excess allergies, they produce harmful moisture may be obvious, such as chemicals such as VOCs (volatile condensation on windows, oftenorganic compounds) and mycotox- times, they are hidden in the crawl ins. Health hazards from mold in- spaces and basement of the house.

From there, this polluted air eventually moves into the rest of the house, often carrying odors, contributing to poor indoor air quality and causing uncomfortably high humidity levels. Studies show that as much as 50 percent of the air in a home comes from these below-grade areas.

A SOLUTION One answer is effective moisture control. Dehumidifiers can reduce the risk of serious health issues by controlling moisture levels in the home. Several organizations, including the Environmental Protection Agency, American Lung Association, and American Medical Association, recommend using dehumidifiers to maintain humidity levels of 50 percent or less indoors.

The high-capacity dehumidifiers from Santa Fe are the most energy efficient around and de signed to effectively operate in the cooler temperatures of a basement or crawl space while helping to maintain the structural integrity of the house.

LEARN MORE For information, visit DehumidifierSolutions.com.

Managing your mortgage, your money and more SETTLING into a new place can be an exciting time. You’re unpacking, meeting new neighbors, getting the “lay of the land” and making decisions about how to furnish and decorate your home. At the same time, you’re assuming many new financial responsibilities, such as mortgage payments and maintenance costs. That’s one reason it’s important to protect yourself and your family by making sure you have a sound financial foundation.

SAVINGS: MORE IMPOR TANT THAN EVER IMPORT While setting aside money for emergencies is a good idea no matter what, it’s essential that, as a homeowner, you keep a reserve handy in case the unexpected happens.

Homeowners can find themselves facing expensive repairs that shouldn’t—or can’t—be delayed.

Adequate savings can keep you from having to choose between postponing a needed repair and risking further damage to your home— which may require spending beyond your budget. Savings can also be used to pay for home improvement projects, such as remodeling a kitchen or bathroom or building an addition, that may enhance the value of your investment and help you make the most of your home.

An obvious place to put your savings is in a traditional FDIC-insured bank account. Another alternative would be to place your money in a money market fund.

These are conservative invest-

A GOOD insurance policy can help protect your home and your family’s ability to live in it. ments that offer competitive interSimply get into the habit of est rates and check-writing privi- “paying yourself first.” Every time leges, so assets in money market you get paid, put aside a set amount funds can be easily used to pay before using any of it to pay bills or your mortgage and expenses in case make purchases. Many financial of an emergency. An investment in companies, such as First Investors, a money market fund is not FDIC can facilitate this by making the proinsured or guaranteed by any other cess automatic; a fixed amount can government agency. be automatically deducted from PA Y YOURSELF FIRST PAY your paycheck or your bank acIt can be difficult to think about count on a regular basis and put into saving money when you’re a new a mutual fund account.

PROTECTING YOUR HOME homeowner; you may have just spent a significant amount of money Most owners buy homeowner’s on a down payment, and you are insurance, and for good reason. already diverting a large portion of Your home is likely your largest your income toward the mortgage, single asset and investment. It must property taxes and homeowner’s be protected in case of fire, burglary insurance. Even on a tight budget, or natural disaster. however, saving money doesn’t But a home is also a major have to be a painful experience. source of expenses: mortgage pay-

ments, property taxes, maintenance and the like. If your household loses the earning power of a loved one, your family might not be able to afford those costs. That’s where life insurance steps in. Its benefits can be used to help cover mortgage payments and other home-related expenses so that your family can remain in their home.

DON’T OVERLOOK LIFE INSURANCE Life insurance can also help: • Replace lost income, so your family can maintain its current lifestyle; • Ensure that goals—such as a child’s education—can still be achieved; • Pay final expenses, such as medical bills and funeral expenditures.

Speak With Your Insurance Representative An insurance representative can also discuss what products may be suitable for your unique needs and make specific investment and insurance recommendations.

LEARN MORE For further information about First Investors funds or variable products, you can get a free prospectus and summary prospectus by contacting a representative, calling (800) 423-4026 or visiting www.firstinvestors.com. Since 1930, First Investors has been helping individuals and everyday families reach their financial goals with competitive investment, life insurance and annuity products.

Hey, man, it’s time we have a heart-to-heart “FORTY-two-year-old black male, probable heart attack.” To this day, the paramedics’ words as they rushed me to a Washington, D.C., hospital ring in my ears.

It began as a normal Thursday covering news as a street reporter in the toughest part of our nation’s capital. When the severe pain in my chest began, I tore open the top buttons of my dress shirt and loosened my tie to no avail. After a few failed attempts to shake off the pain, I was rushed by ambulance to the local hospital.

As I was rolled into the emergency room, my shirt was cut off, an IV needle was stuck in my arm, and monitoring leads were stuck to my chest. I was given medication to dissolve any blood clots and restart blood flow to my heart. An electrocardiogram showed that I had had a type of heart attack called “the widow maker”: An artery was abruptly and completely blocked.

Fifty percent of patients who have this type of heart attack die before they get to the hospital.

My cardiologist was concerned.

I was young to be having a heart attack and was outwardly in good health.

Two years before my heart attack, with a lot of help, I had quit smoking and eliminated all alcoholic drinks. However, my job as a reporter for a top news station was inherently stressful. I often grabbed fast food as I tried to balance professional responsibilities with family time. It had all caught up with me.

Later that night, my chest pain came back and I was flown to another hospital where an emergency angioplasty was performed to widen the obstructed artery.

I was in intensive care for several days before starting inpatient cardiac rehab. Within 2 weeks, I was walking and ready to go home. I continued my supervised cardiac rehab as an outpatient for another 6 weeks.

Determined to learn why I had my heart attack and what I could do to prevent another one, I relied on what I did best: research and investigation. I asked my family about our history of cardiovascular disease. I

read articles and listened intently when the nurses and doctors explained about my blood pressure, pulse, weight and medications. I worked with a nutritionist who told me that if I ate mostly fresh fruits and vegetables, broiled fish and chicken and lower-fat foods, I could occasionally enjoy spare ribs at family get-togethers.

I had always been athletic before my heart attack but I knew I needed an activity that gave me control of my heart speed. I started by running on a treadmill and then moved my runs outside. I listened to my body but wasn’t afraid to push myself.

I saw my doctors regularly to make sure my heart was functioning at its best. My health care team was stunned by my recovery, often calling me a miracle, which felt great.

But not as good as knowing I was living healthy, tracking and controlling my blood pressure and taking care of myself.

Despite my progress, I needed to prove to myself that I was healthy. Since running had be come my passion, I entered the Marine Corps Marathon. With clearance from my doctor, on October 22, 2000—eight years after my heart attack—I ran 26.2 miles. When I crossed the finish line, I knew my heart attack hadn’t defeated or defined me.

I know I was spared. My story could have turned out differently and I am grateful for this gift of life.

But do you know what? This could be you. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in America.

If you learn anything from my story, I hope it’s that YOU have to take care of yourself and your heart.

No one else can do it for you. During American Heart Month, and all through the year, make your heart a priority.

Know your blood pressure and keep it in control. Don’t smoke. Eat less fatty, salty, and greasy food and more fruits and vegetables. Make an appointment with your doctor.

Free resources and information are available from Million Hearts at 1.usa.gov/1AU65x6. Take it from me: taking action today could save your life tomorrow. -NAPSI

DON’T BE FUELISH —Use only E10 or lower fuel in any lawn and garden equipment.

OPEI reminds consumers to use only E10 or lower fuel in any lawn and garden equipment SPRING is on its way, and soon, home and business owners will be cleaning and preparing lawn and garden equipment.

“Many are so eager to pull out lawn and garden equipment once spring arrives that they sometimes forget basic steps to ensure the powerhouse of the equipment—the engine—is in good working order,” said Kris Kiser, president and CEO of OPEI. “One challenge is that most fuel contains some level of ethanol, which contains corrosive alcohol.

If you left that fuel in the tank over the winter months, you don’t want to use it in the spring. It may damage your equipment. You need to drain it and put in new fuel that is E10 or lower,” advises Kiser.

Whether it’s a mower, trimmer, blower, chain saw or pruner, the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) offers tips to help users avoid fuel-related problems and ready their equipment to operate safely. Check the fuel tank. If fuel has been sitting all winter long in the fuel tank, do not use it in the spring. Drain it responsibly and put in fresh fuel. Remember to dispose of this fuel properly.

Use only E10 or lower fuel in your outdoor power equipment. Do not use gas with more than 10 percent ethanol (E10) in outdoor power equipment. Some gas stations may offer 15 percent ethanol (E15) gas or other fuel blends, but this higher ethanol fuel is dangerous—and is in fact illegal—to use in any small engine equipment, such as lawn mowers, chain saws, generators, and all other lawn and garden equipment. Don’t leave fuel sitting in the tank for more than 30 days. Untreated gasoline (without a fuel stabilizer) left in the system will deteriorate, which may cause starting or running problems and, in some cases, damage to the fuel system.

Inspect your equipment. Check for loose belts and missing or damaged parts. If you find anything concerning, replace the parts or take your equipment to a qualified service representative.

Drain out the old oil and put in fresh oil. Remove the oil drain plug

in your lawn mower and catch the old oil in a container. Replace the plug and refill the engine with oil recommended by the product manufacturer. Properly dispose of the oil you drained.

Install clean air filters. Your engine and equipment will run much better with clean filters. Paper filters need to be replaced. Some foam filters can be cleaned and replaced.

Sharpen your cutting blade.

Have your lawn mower’s cutting blade sharpened so you can get a clean cut on your lawn. Your lawn will be healthier and your lawn mower will operate more efficiently, too.

Clean your equipment. If you did not clean your equipment before storing it, there may be dirt, oil or grass stuck to it. Give your equipment a good spring-cleaning. A cleaner machine will run more efficiently and last longer.

Review your manual. Now is a good time to read the operator’s manual and refamiliarize yourself with the controls and what they do.

Make sure you know how to stop the machine quickly if needed.

ABOUT OPEI The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute is an international trade association representing more than 100 power equipment, engine and utility vehicle manufacturers and suppliers. OPEI is the advocacy voice of the industry, and a recognized Standards Development Organization for the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and active internationally through the International Standards Organization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) in the development of safety and performance standards. OPEI is managing partner of GIE+EXPO, the industry’s annual international trade show, and the creative force behind the environmental education program, TurfMutt.com. OPEI-Canada represents members on a host of issues, including recycling, emissions and other regulatory developments across the Canadian provinces. For information, visit OPEI.org. NAPSI

Brain health: How you can make a difference

BR UCE JOHNSON preparing for a heart-healthy bike ride.

BRUCE

BRUCE JOHNSON at the CBS News anchor desk.

IF you’re like most people, you’ve noticed differences in the way your mind works over time. The good news is that understanding the potential threats to brain health can help you make smart choices to strengthen mental alertness.

THREA TS TO BRAIN HEAL TH HEALTH THREATS Some health conditions can negatively affect your brain. Heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes can alter or damage blood vessels throughout your body, including the brain. Some medications and combinations of drugs, as well as alcohol use, may affect thinking.

Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia harm the brain, too. While no one knows how to prevent dementia, many approaches that are good for your health in other ways, like exercise and a healthy diet, are being tested.

ACTIONS THA T HELP YOUR BRAIN THAT • Get regular health screenings.

• Manage diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

• Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about the medications you take and any possible side effects.

• Try to maintain a balanced diet of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats (including fish and poultry), and low-fat or nonfat dairy products. Monitor your intake of solid fat, sugar and salt and eat proper portion sizes.

• Drink moderately, if at all, because avoiding alcohol can reverse some negative changes related to

brain health.

• Be physically active be cause doing so may improve connections among your brain cells. Older adults should get at least 150 minutes of exercise each week.

• Don’t smoke. Quitting at any age will be beneficial to your mind and body. Nonsmokers have a lower risk of heart attacks, stroke and lung diseases, as well as increased blood circulation.

• Be safe. Older adults are at higher risk of falling and other accidents that can cause brain injury.

To reduce your risk, exercise to improve balance and coordination, take a falls prevention class and make your home safer.

• Keep your mind active by doing mentally stimulating activities including reading, playing games, teaching or taking a class, and being social. Volunteer.

• Visit an Area Agency on Aging (AAA). These communitybased agencies provide a welcoming environment for older adults and caregivers interested in learning about services from meals, transportation and in-home care to volunteer opportunities and classes to keep them healthy and engaged.

FREE BROCHURE For more information and a free brochure containing strategies to promote brain health, call the Eldercare Locator at 800-6771116 or visit eldercare.gov. -NAPSI

LIFE&STYLE

FEBRUARY 11-17, 2015

B5

Modern landfills: Safe, smart and green

Value of education brings success among unique student population IMPECCABLY green mountains overlook a picturesque New England landscape as families gaze upon capped and gowned graduates sitting along mahogany benches. One cannot help but think of this scene as suited only for institutions of the academic elite.

However, a different educational success occurs in this part of New Hampshire, where students wear jumpsuits and study in cells.

Grafton County Department of Corrections in North Haverhill, 35 miles north of Dartmouth College, prides itself on the number of inmates it's able to graduate from the state's new high school equivalency test called HiSET. "We're the HiSET jail -; we get inmates an education," said correctional educator Kenn Stransky.

A teacher for the last 15 years, eight at the facility, Stransky has led numerous initiatives borrowed from more conventional education environments. For Stransky, to have a real impact on these students, it's about creating an education-focused culture.

"A student is a student," says Stransky on how he views this unique student population.

One such initiative is an alumni tutoring program, in which inmates who've earned their high school equivalency certificate help current inmates who are preparing to take the tests.

"I'm here only once a week, so that's a limited opportunity, but their inmate peers are here all the time and

can provide continuous support," Stransky said. Support for education success goes beyond those directly involved with the education program. Down to each correctional officer, everyone shares the responsibility to motivate inmates to enroll voluntarily and earn their high school equivalency.

"We want them to be a more prepared and better person when they leave the facility," program officer Sgt. Mark Deem said. "Confidence that they could achieve something really makes a difference on whether we'll see them again."

Inmates tend to gain a sense of purpose by graduating from the program, which has been shown to reduce recidivism.

Inmates who participated in education programs have a 43 percent lower chance of recidivating than those who did not, according to a 2013 RAND Corporation study funded by the U.S. Departments of Education and Justice.

The facility's honor graduate during this recent graduation is 45year-old Mary Howard. Howard said that coming from a broken home, hanging around with the wrong crowd and illegal substance use led her to drop out of school early. However, the support and encouragement she received from fellow inmates and the facility's staff kept her focused and driven.

"I have a completely different outlook on my future because there are more opportunities for me when I get out," Howard said. -NewsUSA

THE average American generates a lot of trash and recyclables - about four pounds per day. That adds up to more than 250 million tons of trash every year, and more than a third of it gets recycled and repurposed into new products.

Many Americans are working to expand recycling. Some communities are also beginning to divert food and yard waste out of their waste stream, and that could expand the amount of waste that is repurposed.

What happens with the rest of the waste?

Thanks to many advanced technological innovations, much of it goes to well-regulated, highly engineered modern landfills that are safer, smarter and greener than ever.

These landfills feature high-tech, carefully monitored containment systems that reduce greenhouse gas output, control water and air emissions and minimize nuisances such as odor. Strict federal regulations do not allow landfills in floodplains or wetlands or along fault lines. Layers of special liners and collection systems also prevent groundwater contamination.

WASTE-DISPOSAL technology has improved.

"Landfills are an important and necessary tool for managing waste while protecting public health and the environment. Significant advancements such as gas collection have allowed us to enhance the

value of landfilling with energy generation," said Sharon H. Kneiss, president and CEO of the National Waste & Recycling Association.

GENERA TING ENER GY GENERATING ENERGY Landfill gas -- the source of

most odors -- is controlled through collection and, in many cases, is converted into energy. Methane captured from landfills often is used as a form of green, renewable energy that can fuel vehicles or help power the electricity grid. Landfillgas-to-energy projects also help ease our dependence on fossil fuels and foreign oil. In the past year, these projects delivered enough energy to power nearly 2 million homes and businesses.

JOBS These facilities also generate stable, well-paying jobs in the communities that host them. Landfills are also an important part of the tax base in these communities.

FOR THE FUTURE Looking ahead, today's landfills provide continued environmental benefits even after they are closed.

Engineers and landscape designers transform these sites into parks, golf courses, wildlife refuges and other spaces that can be enjoyed by the entire community.

For more information, visit beginwiththebin.org/landfills. NewsUSA

3 Fishermen rescued at sea thanks to GPS device THE effective use of the VehSmart GPS device likely saved a trio of fishermen from Ecuador after their boat was attacked by robbers.

The fishermen were sailing their small boat, Luis Miguel, southwest of the Santa Elena peninsula, when they were overtaken by robbers who stole their personal belongings and the boat's motor before locking them in a storage compartment, according to the Ecuadorean Navy (DIRNEA).

The fishermen were able to break out of the compartment and deploy the "panic button" on the VehSmart GPS device installed on the boat. This feature links directly to Ecuador's National Emergency Response System, and a Coast Guard team was able to locate and rescue the fishermen within three hours.

The VehSmart system is built around a small, portable device that, among other features, pinpoints the user's location and allows anyone on the vessel to activate a distress

ECU ADOREAN CO AST GU ARD saved three fishermen at sea with the help of the ECUADOREAN COAST GUARD VehSmart GPS device. call in case of emergency. The Luis Miguel was equipped with the GPS locator technology as part of a pilot program to install GPS systems in 4,000 small artisanal fishing vessels.

The program is sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture, Live-

stock, and Fisheries (MAGAP) of Ecuador and is designed to provide fishermen with greater security and peace of mind against threats of piracy and the often dangerous marine environment. In addition, the VehSmart technology allows au-

thorities to monitor the fleet's movements to help prevent overfishing in certain areas and to protect zones that are off-limits for fishing.

The GPS technology used in the Ecuadorean fishing fleet combines VehSmart's telematics and the SmartOne satellite transmitter from Globalstar, Inc. "The installation only requires less than 15 minutes, which is a small investment to ensure someone's safety," said Brad Merritt, president of VehSmart.

"Only vessels registered under the program receive this protection, and MAGAP is encouraging the artisanal fishing community to take the time to have the units installed as quickly as possible," according to a statement from VehSmart. Without the GPS technology, the fishermen could have drifted for days or been lost at sea.

Visit vehsmart.com for more information about the range of GPS products and services available from VehSmart. -NewsUSA

How to be more productive during your business flights

KIDS CELEBRA TE at the annual FIRST Championship.

CELEBRATE

A playbook to help the U.S. regain its innovative edge CAN the man who invented an insulin pump, the iBOT wheelchair and the "Luke Arm" prosthesis help end all the handwringing about whether America has lost its competitive edge in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)?

Inventor and not-for-profit FIRST founder Dean Kamen is sure trying, as evidenced by the thousands of kids who have conquered hundreds of competitive challenges through his organization. No wonder kids from FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) and their robots were chosen to lead the iconic Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and invited to the White House Science Fair on multiple occasions and earned investment money for their invention from ABC's hit TV show, Shark Tank.

WHY ROBOTICS? "Robotics is the 21st-century sport for the mind," says Kamen.

"If we want kids to study STEM, we need to show them that these fields are just as accessible, fun and rewarding as playing sports. And it's the one sport where everyone can turn pro."

Apparently, the need to push this idea is self-evident in the U.S. Data from the Program for International Student Assessment, which shows how U.S. students stack up against those in 65 top industrial countries: * 31st in math. * 23rd in science.

But take a look at students involved with FIRST. Kids ages 6-18 take on robotics challenges and invention programs while they increase their problem-solving abilities and leadership skills.

President Obama celebrated students at the recent White House Science Fair for their innovative ideas. One of the participants, Parker Owen, was honored for his invention, the Cycle-Leg -- an inexpensive prosthetic made from a single recycled bicycle.

"For all of the problems in the world, FIRST to me is a solution.

They are shaping and encouraging the next generation to be contributors rather than consumers," Owen says. U.S. companies are also relying on the organization to fuel the workforce pipeline with innovative problem-solvers -- more than 3,500 corporate sponsors include Boeing, Google, Qualcomm and United Technologies.

Here's the biggest proof point: FIRST offers more than $20 million in scholarships. So it's no surprise that its alumni accounted for almost 10 percent of the entering freshmen class in 2013 at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

"FIRST isn't just a robotics program, it's a life-changing experience," says Emily Stern, who is studying mechanical engineering at MIT. For more information, visit usfirst.org. -NewsUSA

IN today's business world, it's wise to take advantage of any opportunity to be more productive.

This is especially true for business travelers who spend many hours each week sitting on flights.

So, rather than sit staring at the back of the seat in front of you each flight, here are some ways to put your time to better use: * Exercise your brain by reading. It doesn't matter whether it's the latest book by Stephen King or James Patterson, that report you've been meaning to tackle or a professional journal. Where else are you going to get consecutive uninterrupted hours to catch up on some light (or heavy) reading? * Catch up on important writing. You may not be able to wade through emails, but you can tackle employee reviews, finesse a speech or presentation or even do some

personal writing in a journal or blog. * Take the opportunity to rest or sleep. Why stay awake watching movies when you can rest up before that big day on the job? This is probably one of the most important aspects of business travel. We all know how difficult it can be to sleep on a plane, but the simple act of shutting your eyes can help you to hit the ground running. * Remember to hydrate. Humidity levels are notoriously low on a flight by about 5 to 10 percent, which is similar to an arid desert. It follows that passengers can expect to get dehydrated to some degree, which can be combatted by drinking at least one liter of water for every four hours in the sky. Not only does better hydration improve health, it's also been found to reduce jet lag. * Find an airline that can accom-

Blind oceanographer sets sail with downloaded books ONCE or twice a year, oceanographer Amy Bower of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution puts on her sea legs and leads a research expedition to track ocean currents around the globe. In addition to a glittering array of highly technical moors, buoys, sensors, trackers and the like, Bower packs a digital audio player filled with books downloaded from the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS), the Library of Congress.

"When I go on my research cruises, I'll take five to ten books and magazines," says Bower, who lost her sight in 1993 because of macular degeneration. Even if she is in water too deep to anchor or nowhere near a harbor, her books are always within reach.

NLS provides audio and braille books and magazines free of charge to U.S. residents and citizens living abroad who are blind, have low vision, or cannot hold a book because of a physical disability. NLS also loans the portable playback equipment needed to read its audiobooks.

Bower prefers to download books through the NLS online service, but eligible readers can also receive books through the mail on digital cartridges or in braille.

The NLS collection includes fiction by popular contemporary au-

thors, such as Clive Cussler, Patricia Cornwell and Toni Morrison, and timeless favorites such as Ernest Hemingway, Mark Twain and James Joyce. It also has thousands of nonfiction titles on a variety of subjects -- science, foreign policy, biographies and much more. Two of Bower's favorite writers are well-represented in the collection: novelist, essayist and poet Barbara Kingsolver ("The Poisonwood Bible") and historian and novelist Wallace Stegner ("Angle of Repose").

NLS audiobooks are professionally narrated, and that's one thing Bower appreciates about the service. "Real voices add drama and depth to the story, like theater," she says. If Bower isn't poring over data or spending time with her family, she's probably inspiring visually impaired students with her passion and fervor. But anyone can tell she relishes being at sea. Compared to her Cape Cod home, where her husband and 10-year-old daughter occasionally leave things on the floor that Bower can't see, "Sometimes it's actually safer on ship!" she says with a laugh.

To learn more about how the NLS program can help you, a loved one, or a friend, go online to loc.gov/nls or call 1-888-NLSREAD. -NewsUSA

MAKE THE most of your travel time. modate your business needs. Not all airlines are created equal. For example, Aer Lingus, the premier airline that connects Ireland to the world and the world to Ireland, is expanding its business class offer-

ings in the coming months to provide more comfort to its international travelers.

Some of the changes the airline has made include: More convenient flight times, shorter transfer times, pre-clearance for customs and a bevy of in-fight conveniences such as complimentary Wi-Fi, USB power, ample work space, custommade duvets for coziness (and warmth) while you sleep on your fully flat bed, and meals that showcase the finest and freshest ingredients from the Emerald Isle.

By revamping its business class, Aer Lingus said it is able to "provide its customers with value without compromising on product" and, in this way, help its business travelers remain productive while in the air.

For more information, visit aerlingus.com. -NewsUSA

One family, one veteran, two heroes FROM the perspective of many veterans, their military service is merely a duty. They were doing their job. They don't look in the mirror and see a hero. When wounded Air Force sergeant Tom Marcum returned home from Iraq, he was his family's hero every day. But his wife April would soon step up to become the second hero in the Marcum family. Tom's injuries were extensive, and the impact on April and their two sons was enormous. In two years, Tom endured four separate mortar explosions. He faced a traumatic brain injury (TBI), hearing loss, vision problems and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

April faced a whole new reality.

Her days were a flurry of doctor appointments, therapy and home healthcare, not to mention raising two boys. For 18 months straight, she was the sole nurse, driver, maid and mother to three. She had to meet her husband -- a friend since grade school -- all over again.

"I missed the help my husband gave me with the kids and errands," says April. "And some time to myself. I don't like to admit this, but I think I was close to a breaking point in my own emotional health."

Due to Tom's brain injury, he wasn't the same man whom April married. He experienced behaviorial changes, mood swings and memory loss that he could not control. Despite the tenacity of her love for him,

April was nearing her breaking point -- until she got a call from Wounded Warrior Project.

April went to a Spouse Retreat hosted by WWP, where she was able to meet other people in situations like hers.

"I made some deep, emotional connections with several women," April says. "It was just the right thing at just the right time. I came home ready to get back into the fight again. I was re-energized and happy when I came home."

Both Tom and his sons, Gabe and Jared, saw a positive change in their mom after the retreat. Slowly but surely, the family knit itself back together through love, humor and fierce dedication.

As Tom says, "Family is our lifeline."

Wounded Warrior Project has 19 programs and services to nurture the mind and body, and encourage economic empowerment for injured service members from post-9/11 conflicts. Believe in Heroes is a fundraising campaign that raises awareness and funds for WWP. Consumers can make direct donations, buy Believe in Heroes items and save via high-value coupons at grocery retailers throughout the country. So far, 56 national brands and 75 retailers are participating.

Learn more at woundedwarriorproject.org. NewsUSA

B6

FEBRUARY 11-17, 2015

Pacquiao meets Obama at US National Prayer Breakfast Pacquiao and Obama previously met in February 2011 at the White House three months before the Filipino’s 12-round encounter against Shane Mosley NISSI ICASIANO Rappler.com | Manila Mail News Partner MANILA, Philippines – Part of his frenzied three-week itinerary that included trips to different cities in the United States, Manny Pacquiao also dropped by Washington, D.C. to attend the annual National Prayer Breakfast, where he met American president Barack Obama once again.

Pacquiao and his wife Jinkee had previously met Obama in February 2011 at the White House 3 months before the Filipino’s 12-

Rizal...

Woodside, Sunnyside, Long Island City, and Astoria. Many Filipinos live in this district.

The timeline is anywhere from one to two years, but Raga cautioned, a lot of shoe-leather campaigning needs to be done. ”We may need help for a petition signed by residents of Woodside,” he told The FilAm. “Worst-case scenario, we may also need people to join us at Community Board meetings.”

The proposed Jose Rizal Way is one of several initiatives outlined

by NaFFAA NY in its first conference, which was attended by organization leaders, local government officials, youth and senior community members on the current state of affairs and the future prospects of the Filipino community in metropolitan New York.

Other plans include the lighting the Philippine colors at the Empire State Building to commemorate Philippine Independence, and resurrecting the marker of Jose Rizal on Fifth Avenue. Records show that Rizal visited New York in 1888 and stayed at the Fifth Avenue Hotel, which later became the Toy International Center Building. That building went through a succession of ownership from 2005, and it is not known what has become of the Rizal marker that was displayed at the lobby. ”We will also try to get that marker back on Fifth Avenue,” said Raga.

The NaFFAA NY conference was keynoted by Consul General Mario de Leon Jr. In his remarks, De Leon acknowledged the “positive initiatives” introduced by the umbrella organization NaFFAA “to find ways to solicit the commitment of all sectors of the community in pursuing the objectives of FilipinoAmerican population.”

Likewise, he noted the rising image of Filipino Americans in number, status and dynamism. He underscored the importance of ensuring the sustainability of community organizations – many of them more than 30 years old – and welcomed the increasing participation in leadership roles of the younger generation.

President and CEO of New York Power Authority, Gil Quiniones, the highest ranking FilAm in the Cuomo Administration, urged Filipinos to leverage their number by electing more ‘kababayan’ in influential positions in American politics “so we can have a stronger voice in advancing our interests.”

round encounter against Shane Mosley.

Both men had the chance to cross paths for the second time on Thursday, February 5 at the National Prayer Breakfast, a yearly affair in the United States capital that brings together selected political, business, and social personalities.

Pacquiao presented a boxinginspired painting as a gift to Obama.

Aside from boxing’s only eightdivision world champion, many prominent figures took part of the aforementioned event, including exiled Tibetian spiritual leader Dalai Lama. While waiting for develop-

ments in the ongoing negotiations for his long-awaited bout with Floyd Mayweather Jr., Pacquiao has been keeping himself busy outside the Philippines.

The 36-year-old Filipino boxer had the premier of his movie-documentary entitled “Manny” at the Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles before promoting the film in New York and making several guest appearances.

In addition, Pacquiao was tapped to be one of the five judges at the recently-concluded 63rd Miss Universe pageant in Miami.

During his stay in Miami,

Pacquiao and Mayweather bumped into each other during an NBA game at the American Airlines Arena before having a closed-door dialogue at the Pinoy pugilist’s hotel suite in the same city.

Pacquiao reportedly eyes an inring return on May 30 in case the negotiation for the mega-fight versus Mayweather falls through once more.

Along with his tour on United States soil, Pacquiao also paid a visit in the United Kingdom, where he had dinner with Prince Harry at Buckingham Palace in London, England.

SECOND MEETING. Manny Pacquiao (left) meets Barack Obama for the second time at the annual US National Prayer Breakfast

FilAms: Need for one political voice, cultural consciousness New York City–The need to involve young second generation Filipino-Americans in community events and to be more politically visible and active were among the most pressing issues expressed by leaders of the Filipino community in the east coast.

During the first general assembly of community organizations, about 200 Filipino community leaders threshed out the common and priority concerns, which was initiated and facilitated by the office of the Philippine Consul General in New York.

“Younger Fil-Ams need to be exposed to Philippine culture in order to be effective and mindful leaders,” said Michael Legaspi Stiefel, an aspiring leader of the New England Filipino-American Association Inc. (NEFAI) based in Con-

necticut.

The First Filipino-American Community General Assembly was held on Saturday, February 7 at the Philippine Center in on 5th Avenue in Manhattan.

Ambassador Mario de Leon Jr. in his inspirational speech that opened the assembly said that organizations need to “repurpose” themselves to include conversations and participation of the younger generations with that of the older ones.

The concern has long been expressed by young students and children of first generation Fil-Ams to make them culturally conscious and historically aware of the Philippines in order to be grounded and appreciative of their ethnicity.

Gina Angeles, an emerging leader in the feminist movement here for instance, opined that Filipinos in New York need to engage in activities that allow the expression of the youth of their quest for iden-

Carnegie...

Satorre...

Habana, who opened with my favorite Broadway song, “Memory” (Hammerstein), the theme song for Cats. Ms. Habana paid homage to her grandma who watched her in the show. That was touching.

That wasn’t enough to emotionally nail us that night. Kay called her son Kael to join her on stage for a surprise song rendition.

I looked around everyone near me. They were all grinning at the mother-son tandem. Pianist Raquel Borromeo and guitarist Jedd Miranda played the music with Ms. Habana.

In full support of the show were Ambassador Mario de Leon and better half Eleanor, Jersey City councilman Rolando Lavarro as well as Mrs. Remedios Fe Cabactulan, president of the United Nations Delegations Women’s Club (UNDWC) who clearly enjoyed the concert. Congen de Leon, after the show, remarked,”Great selection of songs and wonderful performance.

Warms us up in winter.”

Indeed, it was impeccably put together. Another concert be in the offing, Ms. Kay Habana?

San Mateo supervisors’ resistance,” Otayde, Jefferson School Board trustee, told Manila Mail.

Satorre believes that consensus building is important in tackling challenges. “We have to compromise for the welfare and interest of Daly City.”

Noting that a public office is a public trust, he said: “You have to be transparent and should never lose your cool behavior, as being a public servant is oftentimes a thankless job. People expect a lot from you with so little time.”

Satorre, who is also a California State Board Member for professional engineers, land surveyors and geologists, has been a resident of Daily City for 25 years. He looks forward to serving in the council where “my colleagues have different personalities and backgrounds but are equally capable of handling the mandate as a commissioner on planning”.

“Let me say this to the pundits, that I have no political plans now or in the future. I am happy to serve pro bono and to live with my family happily forever by God’s grace.”

BY MARIVIR MONTEBON Manila Mail New York Correspondent

PAHALANG 1 Chimpanzee 4 I-aararo 10 Grupo 12 Sangga 13 Aruga 14 Itiklop 15 Bahay-bata 17 Ling__; restaurant 18 Asin sa Kastila 19 ----y krus 20 Maliit na bahagi ng bukid 23 Hatak 24 Ito o iyon 25 Walang tira sa baraha 26 Apelyidong Tsino 27 Mestisong negro 30 Paraya 32 Kasuotan ng pari 34 Lutuan 35 Puga 36 Intindi 37 Mataas na bundok sa RP PAB AB A ABAB ABA 1 Alyas 2 Lapay 3 Awitin ng Apo Hiking Society 4 Nagninang o ninong 5 Grupo ng mang-aawit noon 6 Saturday: ikli 7 Dating DLIG Secretary 8 Katulad 9 Talisman 11 Ilog sa Mindanao 16 Tantay ng pelikula

19 Kamoteng-kahoy 20 Pakain sa manok 21 Iluwal 22 Ginapos 23 Bigay ng nanalo 25 Simbolo ng Plutonium 27 Bigay ng nanalo 28 Pagsisisi 29 Bigay ng yumao 31 Baka sa Tibet 33 Hayop sa malamig na lugar

PHOTO BY GLORIA L. STEIFEL

tity and culture. “It is tough for young ones who are neither fully Filipino nor fully American. There is a language barrier to deal with and understanding the cultures to begin with.

But we can have the best of worlds, if given enough support,” she said.

Meanwhile, NAFFAA president

Merit Salud expressed the need to be politically visible and to have the Filipino vote counted in local and federal elections.

“We are encouraging Filipinos to be active and visible in governance and elections. We should vote in local and federal elections.

We should have a political voice,” Salud, a lawyer, said.

Filipinos rank next to the Chinese in terms of population size among Asians in the US. Ambassador de Leon likewise encouraged community support for Filipino entrepreneurs, recognition of women leaders, as well as the lobbying of full recognition of Filipino WW II veterans as the most pressing concern for the community.

Destroyed...

and shot them as an example at the slightest provocation.

Perhaps the Filipinos were too naïve or too trusting. “Despite the devastation, the Filipinos,” writes one historian, “were only too glad to be liberated from the hated Japanese.” In fact, Parsons claims to have unearthed a document containing a recommendation from a guerilla leader Bartolome Cabangbang to MacArthur to bomb the Escolta by US aircraft because the Japanese had stored war materiel there! So much for patriotic sympathy!

“Filipinos lost an irreplaceable cultural and historical treasure in the resulting carnage and devastation of Manila, remembered today as a national tragedy. Countless government buildings, universities and colleges, convents, monasteries and churches, and their accompanying treasures dating to the founding of the city, were ruined. The cultural patrimony (including art, literature, and especially architecture) of the Orient’s first truly international melting pot - the confluence of Spanish, American and Asian cultures was eviscerated. Manila, once touted as the “Pearl of the Orient” and famed as a living monument to the meeting of Asian and European cultures, was virtually wiped out.”

Writes Joaquin de Jesus: “After the War, many old-timers would claim that everyone had turned into

animals…The destruction of the city’s physical edifices also caused the destruction of the country’s Catholic values, Hispanic culture, and even basic good manners. To this day, we are suffering the effects of the destruction of Manila. From the lack of interest and sense of connection to the city, to the despicable urban plans or lack of for the city of Manila to the seeming banality of life in Manila (i.e. the domination of the consumerist “mall culture”), we continue to lose our pride of place.” (De Jesus, 2013) In the carnage of Manila in 1945, the Filipinos lost more than lives and buildings. The very routine and fabric that made the city the envy of the region and the world was gone forever. And with it were the moorings and foundations of a core that could have gravitated Filipino society towards a path of steady, equitable growth and development.

The country plodded on for about two decades propelled perhaps by the dim memory of its past.

But in time this momentum ran out and the other nations in Asia caught up with and, eventually, surpassed it.

If the carnage of Manila in 1945 did not happen, we would have had a very different Philippines today. *A graduate of the Philippine Military Academy, Ricardo “Dick” Morales is a retired general of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

LEO (JUL Y 23-AUG 22) (JULY When you challenge yourself to think and behave in bigger and better ways, you expand your world for your own and others’ good.

Weekly mantra: I am a leader.

VIRGO (AUG 23-SEPT 22) If one of your colleagues wants to make a big deal out of your achievements, let her trumpet them.

Just stay focused on the job at hand.

Weekly mantra: I am quietly confident.

LIBRA (SEPT 23-OCT 22) Do you really want to help the people around you? Then be there for them. Their appreciation will know no bounds. Weekly mantra: I am emotionally available.

SCORPIO (OCT 23-NOV 21) When was the last time you felt pure joy about your work? If that feeling is gone, maybe it’s time to research your other options.

Weekly mantra: I am ready.

SA GITT ARIUS (NO V 22-DEC 21) SAGITT GITTARIUS (NOV Are you avoiding some truths about yourself? You’re better off admitting, and doing something about, them. Weekly mantra: I am the person in the mirror.

CAPRICORN (DEC 22-JAN 19) Not many people find a long and lasting love, but this week you’re especially primed for heaven’s bounty. Weekly mantra: I am a finder-keeper.

AQUARIUS (JAN 20-FEB 18) If you feel symptoms, it’s better to see the doctor right away than wait until things get worse. Be centered. Weekly mantra: I am recharging my soul regularly.

PISCES (FEB 19-MAR 20) You’re holding something inside your heart right now that you think will stand the test of time.

Think again. Say nothing yet.

Weekly mantra: I am exercising my right to change my mind.

is therefore a disconnect between what the Japanese wanted to do against what actually happened.

For the Americans, they were willing to negotiate and compromise with the enemy if American lives were at stake. This policy did not apply to Filipino lives.

FILIPINOS: TOO TRUSTING? No one can blame the Americans or any commander for seeking low casualties. High casualties are not good for troop morale and are a waste of precious resources. Low casualties had always been one MacArthur’s strong points and was a major consideration in the US’ leap-frogging strategy in the Pacific.

But where were the Filipino leaders in all these?

Were we not supposed to be allies of the US? History does not record their voice before or during the battle. If anyone is still interested, this would be an interesting subject for more research.

Neither Osmeña nor Romulo, so prominent during MacArthur’s wading ashore in Leyte, appear on record as having raised a concern in the face of the catastrophe about to befall their beloved capital city.

Perhaps less could have been expected from the Laurel puppet government set up by the Japanese who would have gleefully lined them up

ARIES (MAR 21-APR 19) You have responsibilities, sure.

You need to be accountable for your actions, sure. But make sure you balance all these with humor.

Weekly mantra: I am having fun.

TAUR US (APR 20-MA Y 20) URUS 20-MAY You’re up to here in duties, involvements, and projects. Give your tired constitution a rest. Prioritize your health. Weekly mantra: I am happy and healthy.

GEMINI (MA Y 21-JUNE 20) (MAY Self-sufficiency works, but only some of the time. For those other instances, find allies and elements for your grand plans. Weekly mantra: I am part of a team.

CANCER (JUNE 21-JUL Y 22) 21-JULY Your fluctuating emotions can be deceiving. Find a better basis for your next decision precisely because it involves love. Weekly mantra: I am using both head and heart.

ENTERTAINMENT

GMA SA VP for Alternative Productions Gigi Santiago-Lara (from left), GMA SVP for SAVP Entertainment Lilybeth Rasonable, LJ Reyes and Perry Lansigan

Lilybeth G. Rasonable (from left), Chynna Ortaleza and Gigi Santiago-Lara

FEBRUARY 11-17, 2015

B7

Lilybeth Rasonable (from left), Ervic Vijandre and Gigi Santiago-Lara

Chynna Ortaleza, Ervic Vijandre and LJ Reyes sign contracts with GMA KAPUSO artists Chynna Ortaleza and LJ Reyes renewed their exclusive contracts with GMA Network and its talent management and development arm, GMA Artist Center.

Ervic Vijandre on the other hand, is the newest addition to the GMA Artist Center family.

Present at the contract-signing were GMA Senior Vice President for Entertainment Lilybeth G. Rasonable, GMA Senior Assistant Vice President for Alternative Productions Gigi Santiago-Lara and

GMA Artist Center Assistant Vice President and Head for Talent Imaging and Marketing Unit Simoun Ferrer.

Chynna has been with Artist Center for 14 years now, and she is filled with gratitude and high spirits as she remains to be part of the GMA family.

“Mahirap iwanan yung kung saan ka nagsimula nung bata ka pa.

Yung ganong klaseng bonding, ganung klaseng pamilya [It is difficult to leave the place where you started from. That kind of bonding,

that kind of family],” she shares.

New to the Artist Center family is Ervic who is very excited for his upcoming project, Kailan Ba Tama Ang Mali. During the contract signing, he expressed that he's happy to sign up with GMAAC. “Kapuso talaga ako.

Wala akong balak na pumunta kahit saan kung hindi doon sa pinaka the best na station, GMA Network [I truly consider myself a Kapuso. I have no intention of going anywhere else but the best station, GMA Network].”

Angelica Panganiban on John Lloyd-Shaina breakup MANILA, Philippines – Actress Angelica Panganiban is happily in a relationship with John Lloyd Cruz, whom she’s been dating for almost 3 years. But in an interview with Vice Ganda on Gandang Gabi Vice Sunday, February 8, she shed more light on navigating this relationship, especially when it came to telling her best friend, John Prats.

John Prats used to date Shaina Magdayao, who went on to date John Lloyd Cruz, before John Lloyd got together with Angelica.

Angelica said that she and John Prats would “bash” Shaina and John Lloyd, in an effort to help him get over Shaina. Angelica said that at the time, she initially didn’t know how to tell her best friend that she was now dating John Lloyd. “‘Di ko talaga alam paano ko sasabihin sa kanya (John) kasi binabash kaya namin dati si Lloydie

ANGELICA PPANGANIB ANGANIB AN (from left); John Lloyd Cruz and Shaina Magdayao ANGANIBAN She later joked: “Si Shaina, ano kaya nararamdaman, best friend ko, ‘tapos jowa niya dati... Ako ang nagwagi.” (I wonder what Shaina feels, my best friend and then her ex-boyfriend before...I won!)

John Prats, who was also on

‘Si Shaina, ano kaya nararamdaman, best friend ko, ‘tapos jowa niya dati...

Ako ang nagwagi,’ says Angelica ‘tsaka si Shaina,” Angelica said.

(I did not know how to tell him, because we actually used to bash Lloydie and Shaina.)

“Sinasabi ko talaga, ‘Ano ka ba, kaya mo ‘yan, isipin mo hindi sila bagay, maghihiwalay din sila.’ (I really said ‘You can do it! Just think that they are not meant for each other, and that they would break up.)

“Ako pala magiging dahilan! (I would become the reason)” Angelica laughed.

When Vice asked if Angelica felt she was the reason of the breakup, she said:” Feeling ko (I think so).”

GGV with Angelica, clarified that he felt awkward about the situation at the time, but relaxed later on, saying that he told John Lloyd to take care of Angelica.

Now it’s really unclear if this is in reaction to Angelica’s statements on GGV, but Shaina soon posted a quote from Thema Davis on Instagram.

She also posted these pointed comments in the caption: “ONE thing I DO BEST to people who “try” to put me down and “try” to break me even if Im not doing anything to them? I PUT YOU

KAILAN BA Tama Ang Mali stars Dion Ignacio (from left), Max Collins, Empress Schuck and Geoff Eigenmann pose for a selfie with their fans in Iloilo

....ON MY PRAYER LIST exactly what I did before, and what I still will continue to do 3 years after #takethehigherroad #butplsdontmentionmynameeverrragain just a lil bumpy moment this evening based on friends texts but all good Still a good Sunday after all..

Blessed with #SundayWorkday w my #ASAP20 family and my ever loyal supporters #Shainatics Blessed with a wonderful loving family and a peaceful sunday evening surrounded with beautiful hearted friends Ah Life Still so much to be thankful for and to smile about Life is Good and our God is Great!

THANK YOU, LORD for tonights comfortable sleep and sweetest dreams Good night, Instagram World,” the caption read.

Do you think Shaina’s comment was about Angelica?

Before John Lloyd, Angelica was in a 6-year relationship with actor Derek Ramsay. The two broke up in 2013. She’s currently promoting her movie, romantic comedy That Thing Called Tadhana.Rappler

REGINE VELASQUEZ-ALCASID at Sinulog Festival

Top Kapuso acts shine in regional festivals in the PH PHILIPPINES – GMA Network was recently at the heart of two of the Philippines’ biggest regional festivals, the Sinulog Festival in Cebu and Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo.

Before trooping to the streets of downtown Cebu City to witness the annual Sinulog Festival revelry, thousands of Cebuano Kapuso fans congregated in three of the city’s biggest malls to meet GMA’s premier artists led by Regine Velasquez-Alcasid and lead stars of drama series Healing Hearts, Second Chances and Once Upon a Kiss.

Regine was joined by Angelika de la Cruz, Joyce Ching and Kristoffer Martin, stars of the upcoming series Healing Hearts as they delivered outstanding performances before a delighted crowd.

Another set of Kapuso artists starred in back-to-back mall shows with the lead stars of the recently launched primetime series Second Chances—Jennylyn Mercado, Raymart Santiago, Camille Prats and Rafael Rosell—sharing the stage

with the freshest love team of Miguel Tanfelix and Bianca Umali from the primetime series Once Upon a Kiss.

Comedians Albert “Betong” Sumaya and Mike “Pekto” Nacua, who also star in the said series, added more fun to both shows.

Meanwhile, a delightful blend of feel-good shows and upbeat performances from GMA stars also spiced up this year’s Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo, the so-called City of Love.

This time, Once Upon A Kiss stars Miguel, Bianca, Pekto, and Betong once again ventured outside Manila to personally touch base with fans and went around from one stop to another via the Dinagyang Festival Corporate Parade.

Kapuso home-grown talent Ruru Madrid, who was a guest performer at the Iloilo Festival Queen and Hiyas Sang Iloilo beauty pageant served up a musical treat, which was very well received by a large audience.

Real-life sweethearts Lovi Poe and Rocco Nacino set the stage on fire as they regaled their supporters

with a mesmerizing production number during a Kapuso Mall Show.

Moreover, Ang Lihim ni Annasandra’s Mikael Daez delivered a live coverage on the Ati Tribe Competition for GMA TV Western Visayas, to amuse the Ilonggo audience.

Furthermore, the lead stars of the newest GMA soap Kailan Ba Tama Ang Mali?—Geoff Eigenmann, Empress Schuck, Dion Ignacio, and Max Collins—drew in their share of huge followers during a Kapuso Mall Show in the region.

Geoff, Empress, and Dion, meanwhile, proceeded to the Freedom Grandstand right after the mall show to take part in the Dinagyang Festival Awarding Ceremonies. In endeavoring to be one at heart with its viewers, GMA Network continues to celebrate the many customs and traditions that make up a truly unique Pinoy culture.

For more updates on your favorite Kapuso stars and programs, visit the website gmanetwork.com/ international.

And LJ, who has also been a faithful Kapuso, treats GMA Network as her second home. “Ang sarap kasi siyempre, parang pamilya ko talaga ‘tong GMA. Feeling ko dito na ‘ko tatanda.

Parang yung signing, celebration lang ng new chapter ulit ng career ko, ng relationship ko with the Network [It feels good, of course, because GMA is already like family to me. I think I will grow old here.

This signing is a celebration of a new chapter in my career and with my relationship with the Network],”

she reveals.

Lilybeth Rasonable feels happy for this set of artists who continues to improve their craft and build stronger ties with the network. She has high hopes and full support for the three Kapuso stars who signed with GMA. “Ervic is just starting out. But we want to train him more, give him acting workshops, although he is doing very well. He’s very willing to attend the workshops so we want to do it for him so that he can be better at his craft,” confirms the

GMA Executive.

“For Chynna and LJ, mga established actresses na ‘yan.

They’ve proven themselves to be very good at what they do, so tuloytuloy lang ang support ng network at Artist Center sa kanila, para mas mag-grow pa sila sa kanilang career [For Chynna and LJ, they are already established actresses. They’ve proven themselves to be very good at what they do, so the Network and Artist Center will continue to support them so that their career will grow more],” she adds.

Ai Ai delas Alas to help surviving SAF members Ai Ai delas Alas intends to donate part of the proceeds of her upcoming “Ai (Heart) Papa” concert to the 11 Special Action Forces (SAF) members who survived the controversial Mamasapano “misencounter” on Jan. 25.

“Kasi ang dami nang perang bumuhos (para sa families ng 44 slain policemen), kaya naisip ko dun na lang muna ako sa natirang nasugatan,” she explained.

At the time of interview, Ai Ai was planning to visit the 11 men who are still recuperating at the PNP General Hospital in Camp Crame.

“Para makita ko rin, ma-identify ko, makilala ko sila,” she said.

More than extending monetary assistance, though, Ai-Ai stressed the need to honor the survivors for their bravery.

“Iba ’yung ’pag nakita mo sila, ’yung parang, ‘Ay, may tumulong sa amin.’ Iba ’yung feeling ’pag nakita mo mga mata nila,” she said.

Ai Ai has already communed with the grieving families of the slain SAF members, dubbed the Fallen 44.

Recalling a tearful meeting with one of the slain policemen’s mother

who told her how her dead son also lost his hand and foot, the singercomedian shared, “Pinipigil ko (maiyak) kasi gusto ko makita nila ako na matapang kasi andu’n nga ako para palakasin ang loob nila.”

She added, “(Pero) grabe talaga nu’ng nakita ko siya (the mother).

Talagang hindi ko nakaya… parang gusto na tumulo ng luha ko.”

Meanwhile, Ai Ai said she respects people’s reaction towards President Noynoy Aquino III, who earned flak for his absence at the Jan. 29 arrival honors for the dead SAF members.

“May kanya-kanya naman tayong paniniwala…”

CARING FOR OTHERS Aside from reaching out to people who need moral support in dire times, Ai Ai hopes she could inspire them to discover their innate goodness.

This is why she has signed up as council member of the group Kilos Kaayusan.

“Medyo wala pa kaming activities kasi bago palang ’yung council. Pero siguro sa future maga-outreach program na kami,” she said.

Ai Ai maintained that joining

Kilos Kaayusan is a way to show people how much she cares. “Dapat meron kang compassion for others,” she said.

A LITTLE SEXY Don’t expect the Comedy Queen to slow down just yet. She is, after all, headlining her own preValentine concert with an aim to bring fun to her followers.

Although it hit a minor stag with Richard Yap dropping out as “Ai (Heart) Papa” co-headliner due to purported technical issues on the side of the producers, the show will go on – with two “papas” as replacements to boot.

“Si Aljur Abrenica and JC de Vera. Wala kasing ibang available eh,” she said seemingly in jest, before adding that Aljur might have a “sexy dance” number in the show.

“Ako naman a little sexy lang kasi manunuod ’yung anak ko,” she said.

Her other guests are Faith Cuneta, G Force Dancers, DJ David Ardiente, Rommel Chika and Beki Belo.

Happening on Feb. 12, tickets for “Ai (Heart) Papa” are on TicketWorld. -Manila Bulletin

B8

community

FEBRUARY 11-17, 2015

MANILA MAIL welcomes your event to be featured here. Email us your photos with captions at community@eManilaMail.com.

Pr ess deadline is eevver y FFrida rida Press ridayy aatt noontime noontime..

SAN FRANCISCO Entertainment Commissioner Al Perez (right) enjoyed a tour of the White House during the holiday season with President Obama's Filipina executive chef Cris Comerford and humanitarian Ken Marquis.

STAC-SV and Global Filipino Network host ‘Embracing Multicultural Entrepreneurship’

BY DULCE DIZON SAN FRANCISCO, CA – Global technological innovation is fast becoming as diverse, fast-paced and decentralized as the technology industry itself. Science Technology and Advisory Council-Silicon Valley (STAC-SV) and Global Filipino Network (GFN) have joined efforts to host a Speaker Series event at this year’s Global Innovation Summit Week.

The event is also in partnership with the Berkeley Entrepreneurs Association (BEA).

“Global Innovation Week (February 15 to 21, 2015) is a celebration of innovation ecosystems. Its anchor event, Silicon Valley Global Innovation Summit gathers leading entrepreneurs, executives, scientists, inventors, venture capitalists, journalists, investors, policy makers, social entrepreneurs, and innovation thought leaders who will share experiences, successes, and failures, and develop foundations for best practice.

The Summit also offers insights from leaders, case studies, and roundtable discussions with practitioners, coupled with abundant networking time for emerging market leaders to mingle with Silicon Valley

executives and global influencers.”

The “Embracing Multicultural Entrepreneurship” Speaker Series on February 20 will showcase successful Filipino-Americans who have nurtured innovation and entrepreneurship, ideas and partnerships.

During this panel discussion they will share some of the experiences, challenges, and opportunities of ethnic minority “techies.”

“We want to share these success stories front and center to inform the community that these entrepreneurs are not your typical bread and butter; that there are Filipino-American entrepreneurs out there who are doing interesting things and providing innovative solutions,” explained Christina Laskowski, President of STAC (Science and Technology Council) – Silicon Valley. STAC is a global non-profit organization that provides advice and support and collaborates with groups of people to cultivate holistic entrepreneurship.

STAC was initially founded to help facilitate economic growth in the Philippines.

Its visionary founder, Dr. Federico “Poch” Macaranas, knew how many Filipino experts around the world have extensive knowledge in these areas.

He wondered, “Why can’t the Philippine government build on promising sec-

tors and establish hubs around the world for key tools, information and expertise?”

In 2010 STAC developed a strategic plan to support entrepreneurship and collaboration between governments, academe and the private sector. This could help convert ideas and R&D into globally viable and profitable businesses.

The original domestic program has now extended to the U.S., where STAC is committed to enhancing public awareness of what’s happening in the Philippines. Its goal is to promote businesses there to Filipino-Americans in search of new international collaboration or business opportunities. Non-Filipinos have also been pleasantly surprised to learn of how much stronger, successful and entrepreneurial minded the Philippines has become in the science and technology fields.

Christina Laskowski applauds STAC’s ongoing support of Filipino entrepreneurs.

Yet she also recognizes the dramatic potential of such programs to increase networks, collaborations and material support to individuals. STAC and Global Filipino Network, ready to build on this vision, agree on the urgent need to create ground-breaking events such as this Speaker Series.

“We are very happy to partner with the

STAC Silicon Valley organization and bring these Fil-Am entrepreneurs together,” Global Filipino Network Founder Arnold Pedrigal said recently.

The panel of distinguished entrepreneurs are: Marc Loinaz, PhD, founder of Aeluros, Inc. (acquired by Netlogic/ Broadcom); Victor Oliveros, CEO and founder of Tiptop Health and winner of $1M Salesforce Hackathon; Tisa Mendoza, founder and visioneer of Buzzledom, Inc.; Rene Buhay, cofounder of American Science Products; M. Christina Laskowski, president of STAC – Silicon Valley; Vivian Araullo, moderator and executive director, West Bay and cofounder of GFN. Media partners include Manila Mail, New America Media, Inquirer.net, Fil-Am Post, Positively Filipino, Philippine News and The FilAm. Refreshments will be provided by Adobo Connection USA and Coffee Adventure.

The event is scheduled on February 20th from 2 pm to 5 pm at the UC Berkeley Andersen Auditorium, Hass School of Business (2220 Piedmont Ave. in Berkeley, Calif.

Registration is now open at giwberkeley.eventbrite.com. Admission is free for students and for the general public, donation of any amount is accepted.

California Golden Bears host 2nd Annual Filipino Heritage Night

PERSONNEL COMMISSIONER Perla Ibarrientos (in pink) was honored February 9 by the Daly City Council on the occasion of her 80th birthday. The FilAm leader is flanked by Mayor Ray Buenaventura (3rd from left) and family.

HAPPY 5TH BIR THD BIRTHD THDAAY to Russell from mom Shirley and dad Tim of Concord, Calif.

HAPPY BIR THD BIRTHD THDAAY to Kiara Donaire of Daly City, California.

OFFICERS AND MEMBERS OF DEMOLA DEMOLAYY, South San Francisco chapter were in full force last month at the 18th Installation of Officers held at the Francis Drake Masonic Center in South City. Alfonso Cefre III was elected master councilor for 2015. DeMolay is the premier youth organization for young men (12-21 years old) who strive to be a good person. It is a character building leadership organization that has helped millions of young men around the world become leaders in their communities and fields of business. DeMolays enjoy many fun activities, including basketball, volleyball, broomball, bowling tournaments, movies and video games. Also provides scholarship for higher education.

Berkeley, CA – Cal Men’s Basketball will host their second annual Filipino Heritage Night on Sunday, March 1st, 2015 as the Bears take on the Oregon State Beavers in their final home game of the 2014-15 season.

Cal teamed up with local community partner Filipino American Art Exposition (FAAE) and media partners Manila Mail and Philippine News to host this event.

Haas Pavilion doors will open at 10:30 AM & tip-off at noon (12:00 PM). All fans with promotional Filipino Heritage Night tickets will receive a commemorative t-shirt. There will also be a pregame cultural dancers well as a special performance of the Philippine National Anthem.

The events conclude with a special post game Q&A with Filipino American Cal freshman point guard Brandon Chauca. Tickets are available at $25/general public and $7 for UCB students. Tickets can be purchased through calbears.com using the code FHN2015 or contact David Kao at 510642-2679, dkao@berkeley.edu.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CAL BEARS ATHLETICS