Filipino Journal, Manitoba Edition June 05 - 20, 2023

JOYFUL SPIRIT OF FILIPINO HERITAGE MONTH

Hon. Premier Heather Stefanson, accompanied by Ministers Jon Reyes (Labour & Immigration) and Obby Khan (Sport, Culture, and Heritage), took part in a significant event alongside Filipino community leaders at the Manitoba Legislature, where they unfurled a monumental 30ft x 60ft Philippine Super Flag. The occasion coincides with the commencement of June, which is officially recognized in Manitoba and throughout Canada as Filipino Heritage Month.

Photo by Donna Natividad-Arenas

PAGES 8, 9 ►

Filipino Heritage Month 2023 Events

The 20th Anniversary of the Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba, Inc. coincides with this year’s Filipino Heritage Month celebrations in June. Be sure to check this page regularly for updates about the date, schedule and venue for each event.

Philippine Heritage & Independence Day Celebration presented by Seven Oaks Filipino Employees Association, Inc. Seven Oaks School Division & Maples Collegiate

June 9, 2023, Friday, 5:00 to 8:00 pm

Maples Collegiate, Judy Silver Commons, 1330 Jefferson Avenue ($5 admission ticket for patrons age 12 and above)

Pista sa MAFTI: Wika, Kultura, Pamana Atbp

June 10, 2023, Saturday, 12 to 5:00 pm

Maples Collegiate, 1330 Jefferson Avenue

“Florante at Laura” Live Reading and Music Evening

June 10, 2023, Saturday, 7:00 pm

MIGARTION 2023: A CanadaWide Community Migrants Art Project

June 13 to 15, 2023, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm

Philippine Canadian Centre of MB, 737 Keewatin St.

Philippine Independence Ball

June 17, 2023, Saturday, 6:00 pm.

Victoria Inn & Convention Center, 1808 Wellington Ave.

Jose Rizal Day Recognition

June 19, 2023, Monday, 5:00 pm.

Jose Rizal Monument, Waterford Green Common corner Dr. Jose Rizal Way

Sharing Circle with Indigenous Friends

June 22, 2023, Thursday, 7:00 pm

Seven Oaks Performing Arts Centre, 711 Jefferson Avenue

Multicultural Music and Arts Gathering

June 30, 2023, Friday, 5:00 to 8:00 pm

Maples Collegiate Student Commons, 1330 Jefferson Avenue

Flag Raising and Heritage Month

Opening Ceremony

June 03, 2023, Saturday, 8:00 am

Assembly

Philippine Canadian Centre of MB, 737 Keewatin St.

Philippine Flag Raising led by the MB Council of Filipino Canadians Guest sponsor: Knights of Rizal

Winnipeg Chapter June 09, 2023, Friday, 8:30 am

Winnipeg City Hall, 510 Main Street

Celebration of Faith

June 09, 2023, Friday, 6:30 pm

Philippine Canadian Centre of MB, 737 Keewatin St.

Philippine Canadian Centre of MB, 737 Keewatin St.

Welcome to Newcomers / Picnic in the Park

June 11, 2023, Sunday, Time: 12:00 to 6:00 pm

Tyndall Park Community Centre (grounds), 2255 King Edward St. cor. Burrows Avenue

June 21, 2023, Wednesday, 5 pm-7 pm

Tyndall Park Hall (Tyndall Park School), 2221 King Edward Street

MUSICA: An Evening of Kundiman and Philippine Art Songs

Musica Singers of PCCM with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra String Quartet

Balik Kalye Balik Kalye

Ad Size: 4” x 3”

Publication:

Contact: Erik Moloney

Format: high res PDF

GL Number: 5660 – 6725

MANITOBA GOVERNMENT SEEKS PROPOSALS FOR PROVINCEWIDE STUDENT INFORMATION SYSTEM

Ref.#: PRT-060-S-AD Business card (from Bishop Gr.) ©Arbor Memorial Inc., 2016

The Manitoba government has issued a request for proposals for an integrated provincial Student Information System (SIS) to manage student data and other education information for kindergarten to Grade 12 schools across the province. Education and Early Childhood Learning Minister Wayne Ewasko made the announcement, emphasizing that a consolidated system would improve collaboration, support evidence-based decision-making, and ensure equitable access and support for all school divisions.

Currently, student information is stored in 37 school division-managed K-12 School Information Systems and

the department's Education Information System. The new SIS will bring Manitoba in line with other provinces and territories and was recommended by the Manitoba Commission on Kindergarten to Grade 12 Education as part of Manitoba's K to 12 Education Action Plan.

The government will engage with school divisions to incorporate their requirements into the system, and implementation will occur over a phased period. The request for proposals can be accessed at www. merx.com, and more information on the provincial student information system is available at https://www.edu.gov.mb.ca/k12/ action_plan/responsive/student_info.html.

Inaugural Game: Winnipeg Sea Bears Make a Roaring Debut

Winnipeg is once again roaring with the thrill of professional sports, this time with the home opener of the newly-formed CEBL Winnipeg Sea Bears. The Sea Bears' home opener at Canada Life Centre turned into a night of intense basketball, electrifying performances, and a city and basketball community united.

As the Sea Bears took to the court, the city came together, witnessing an event that was "long overdue," as one fan put it. The excitement in Canada Life Centre set the scene for a memorable game. "Not only was the crowd’s attendance insane, but the level of basketball we’re getting to watch is awesome,"

The atmosphere was indeed electric. Everyone - from the players to the spectators, and from the local content creators to the celebrities in attendance - was an integral part of this incredible, community sports event.

Of course, the thrill of a home opener wouldn't be complete without some heart-stopping moments on the court. The Sea Bears did not disappoint, clutching up in the final minutes to secure their official first win.

In the post-game interview with Coach Mike Taylor brought forward the sheer joy and pride of the team. "It's a dream come true for us. Record-breaking crowd. I'm so proud of our players and our staff. Give credit to the Bandits. They fought back and we weathered the storm. We want to keep working and keep improving," he said, signaling the spirit of the team and their desire to continue growing in the games to come.

Going into the final moments of the game, 8885 with the target score being 89, Chad Posthumus collected a huge rebound and bucket to seal the Sea Bears First Victory, 90-85.

The Winnipeg Sea Bears have made their debut, and it's clear that this is just the beginning of an exciting journey. As one fan aptly put it, "This is only the beginning!" And so, we eagerly look forward to what the rest of the season will bring for the Sea Bears and the City of Winnipeg.

Photos by Ron Cantiveros

Home Opener Report Jessie Cabrera and Ryan Reyes

Photo by Jessie Allen

Photo by Foebus Dela Paz

Photo by Foebus Dela Paz

Photo by Ron Cantiveros

Photo by Ron Cantiveros

MANITOBA CELEBRATES THE VIBRANT FILIPINO HERITAGE MONTH WITH ENTHUSIASM

In a joyous gathering that brought together over 100 individuals from various community groups and associations, the spirit of Filipino Heritage Month was officially ushered in at the Manitoba Legislature on Thurday, June 1st.

Minister Obby Khan took center stage, presenting community leaders with a proclamation officially declaring Filipino Heritage Month. Drawing inspiration from his statement delivered during the May 31st chamber proceedings, Minister Obby Khan highlighted the profound impact and enduring legacy of the 100,000 Filipinos in Manitoba.

Minister Jon Reyes, shed light on the remarkable contributions made by immigrants

and recent healthcare recruiting success in the Philippines, emphasizing their vital role in Manitoba's growth and development. Their unwavering dedication and selflessness have left an indelible mark on the province, enriching the lives of countless individuals and enhancing the fabric of society.

Honourary Consul Ronaldo Opina extended warm greetings on behalf of the Philippine government. He encapsulated the love for their homeland through a heartfelt Philippine flag ceremony, symbolizing unity, pride, and shared heritage.

Perla Javate, president of the Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba, shared insightful

reflections on the 20th anniversary of the council's establishment. With great pride and enthusiasm, she highlighted the council's achievements in preserving and promoting Filipino culture, fostering a sense of identity and belonging within the community.

With the enthusiastic kickoff of Filipino Heritage Month, Manitoba sets the stage for a month-long celebration filled with festivities, cultural showcases, and a profound appreciation for the rich tapestry of Filipino heritage. This vibrant and inclusive tribute serves as a testament to the unity and diversity that make Manitoba a shining example of multicultural harmony.

Celebrating Filipino Heritage Month

Photos by Donna Natividad-Arenas

Heather Stefanson MLA for Tuxedo

Jon Reyes MLA for Waverley

Eileen Clarke MLA for Agassiz Cathy Cox MLA for KildonanRiver East

Cliff Cullen MLA for Spruce Woods

Ralph Eichler MLA for Lakeside

Wayne Ewasko MLA for Lac du Bonnet

Audrey Gordon MLA for Southdale Kelvin Goertzen MLA for Steinbach

Josh Guenter MLA for Borderland Sarah Guillemard MLA for Fort Richmond Reg Helwer MLA for Brandon West

Len Isleifson MLA for Brandon East Derek Johnson MLA for InterlakeGimli Obby Khan MLA for Fort Whyte Kevin Klein MLA for Kirkfield Park

Scott Johnston MLA for Assiniboia Bob Lagassé MLA for Dawson Trail Alan Lagimodiere MLA for Selkirk Shannon Martin MLA for McPhillips Brad Michaleski MLA for Dauphin Andrew Micklefield MLA for Rossmere Janice Morley-Lecomte MLA for Seine River

Greg Nesbitt MLA for Riding Mountain

Blaine Pedersen MLA for Midland

Doyle Piwniuk MLA for Turtle Mountain

Ron R. Schuler MLA for SpringfieldRitchot

Andrew Smith MLA for Lagimodiere

Dennis Smook MLA for La Verendrye Rochelle Squires MLA for Riel

James Teistma MLA for Radisson

Jeff Wharton MLA for Red River North Ian Wishart MLA for Portage la Prairie

Rick Wowchuk MLA for Swan River

Photos by Ron Cantiveros

Photos by Donna Natividad-Arenas

A Night for a Cause: Empowering Future Engineers in Manitoba

"A Night for a Cause" was a remarkable fundraising event held on May 26, 2023, at the Philippine-Canadian Centre of Manitoba. The event, organized by the MARIO T MANCE P Eng Memorial Scholarship and the Filipino Members ChapterEngineers Geoscientists Manitoba, in collaboration with the PhilippineCanadian Centre of Manitoba, aimed to support the University of Manitoba's Engineering students and Internationally Trained Engineers in their pursuit of becoming Professional Engineers in Manitoba.

Guests were treated to a sumptuous dinner while being entertained by the talented OnThe

Que band. The evening was made even more memorable with special performances by Neil Cruz, Jeanette Kiamco Perez, and Klayd Gatdula. Donna Natividad-Arenas hosted the event, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all attendees.

The organizers expressed their heartfelt gratitude to all the supporters and partners who generously contributed to the cause. Through their collective efforts, aspiring engineers can turn their dreams into reality, shaping a brighter future for Manitoba's engineering community.

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Past scholars of the Mance Scholarships

Sa Úgoy ng Músika Ultimate New Wave Evolution

(& closely related styles) part 37

The Cure in 1989, keyboardist Lol Tolhurst formed Presence. When O.M.D. split up in the same year, Paul Humphreys, Malcolm Holmes, and Martin Cooper founded The Listening Pool.

Caught amidst the Grunge explosion in the advent of the 1990s, Ian McCulloch and Will Sargeant of Echo & the Bunnymen fuzzed their guitars up and started Electrafixion.

Soon after the breakup of The Cult in 1995, vocalist Ian Astbury formed Holy Barbarians. In the aftermath of The Pale Fountains' dissolution in 1986, the brothers Mick and John Head emerged with a new band, named Shack.

* Arcadia - So Red the Rose (1985) ("Goodbye Is Forever")

* The Power Station - The Power Station (1985) ("Some Like It Hot")

* Love & Rockets - Earth, Sun, Moon (1987) ("Lazy")

* Presence - Inside (1993) ("Act of Faith")

* The Listening Pool - Still Life (1994) ("Oil for the Lamps of China")

This set consists of albums by offshoots of high-profile pioneers associated with the genre.

Arcadia and The Power Station were almost the two separate halves of Duran Duran--Simon LeBon,

Nick Rhodes, and Roger Taylor in the former; and Andy Taylor and John Taylor, in the latter. Love & Rockets was the trio of Daniel Ash, David J, and Kevin Haskins of Bauhaus.

After he was asked to leave

* Electrafixion - Burned (1995) ("Who's Been Sleeping in My Head?")

* Holy Barbarians - Cream (1996) ("You Are There")

* Shack - H.M.S. Fable (1999) ("Natalie's Party")

(Crossword) PALAISIPAN

Horoscope

Dreams can come true, Aries, but only if you ask for help when Venus in Cancer trines Neptune in Pisces on Friday. Family support can really help you reach your dreams with ease. You’ll need a soft place to land and feel your feelings.

Reaching out to your inner circle can lead to rewards when Venus in Cancer trines Neptune in Pisces on Friday. This is a good day to hop on a video chat and connect with people who can help you succeed. There’s a strong possibility of a windfall thanks to some clever networking.

Knowing the right people can really give you a boost when Venus in Cancer trines Neptune in Pisces on Friday. Your treasured relationships can bring you one step closer to your dreams. This is an ideal day to do some networking and thank the people who have helped you along the way, Gemini.

Copyright @ horoscope.com

You’re feeling curious this week when Venus in your sign trines Neptune in Pisces on Friday. You’re looking to expand your horizons and learn more about the world. This is a great day to take a class, attend a lecture, or talk to new people. This can inspire you to go on a quest of discovery.

Sharing secrets can bring you closer to your dream partner when Venus in Cancer trines Neptune in Pisces on Friday. This is a great day to be a little vulnerable and make a real connection with someone special. However, don’t let your heart cloud your vision of the truth.

Teamwork is where it’s at when Venus in Cancer trines Neptune in Pisces on Friday. Use your social connections to form important partnerships that can improve your life in deep ways. From creative and business partnerships to lovers and even roommates, everything’s better when you do it together.

Sudoku Puzzles are games of patience, numbers and genius! The satisfaction of solving a challenging Sudoku Puzzle is one of the greatest accomplishments any sudoku game player can experience. Here is the puzzle. Good luck!

Solutions for Palaisipan & Sudoku will be posted online www.FilipinoJournal.com

Keep it professional this weekend when Venus in Cancer trines Neptune in Pisces on Friday, because your connections can help you be more productive. People are noticing your hard work and are willing to help you reach your dreams. Success is closer than you think, Libra.

You’re starting June on a romantic note when Venus in Cancer trines Neptune in Pisces on Friday. This is a great day to go on a date or take a spring fling to the next level. Find pleasure in doing something fun and dreamy, Scorpio.

You’re starting the new month on a cozy note when Venus in Cancer trines Neptune in Pisces on Friday. This is a great day to create a dream home with your partner and bond over a shared space. Connect with the people you live with to truly make this house a home.

Start June with a short vacation when Venus in Cancer trines Neptune in Pisces on Friday. Go on a brief getaway with your partner to leave behind the stress and really connect with each other. Spend this time getting to know each other again.

Teamwork really does make the dream work this week when Venus in Cancer trines Neptune in Pisces on Friday. Coworkers might help you get that raise you’ve been working so hard for. Complimenting people and showing them respect will help you later. Trust us on this, Aquarius.

The right romance could change your life when Venus in Cancer trines Neptune in your sign on Friday. There’s a strong possibility of finding your dream relationship, from a love affair to a creative partner who can bring out the best in you. You could meet your muse.

Survey Reveals Pinoy Gen Zs' Strong Preference for Remote Work

Filipino Gen Z students prefer remote work and have high salary expectations, according to Universum's Talent Survey 2023. Out of 5,698 students from 103 universities surveyed between November 2022 and March 2023, 82 percent expressed interest in remote work. Concerns included internet connectivity, work-life balance, and social isolation.

On average, students expected to earn P374,403 annually (around P31,000 per month) after graduation, lower than last year's P495,966 (P41,000 per month). However, it still exceeds the minimum wage. Male respondents expected higher salaries than females, and STEM students expected more than those in business, commerce, humanities, liberal arts, and education.

The survey also found that students prioritized professional training, a friendly work environment, flexible conditions, high future earnings, and ethical standards in their preferred employers. Established companies with global operations were favored over startups, and the private sector was preferred over the government. Large cities were more appealing than small to

Congress Approves Maharlika Bill, Excludes Pensions from Funding

medium-sized towns.

Top choices for business students included Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Philippine Airlines, Google, Ayala, and San Miguel. STEM students preferred Google, Microsoft, Intel, Ayala, and Pfizer. Humanities, liberal arts, and education students chose Google, ABS-CBN, GMA Network, Philippine Airlines, and Microsoft.

Mike Parsons, Universum's managing director for Asia Pacific, stressed the need for employers to understand and meet the expectations of future talent by providing opportunities, flexibility, and work-life balance. These survey results highlight the specific needs and preferences of Pinoy Gen Zs in the labor market.

Desperate Pleas for Divorce Mount as Philippines Battles Ban

The Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) bill has been approved by lawmakers Last May 31, 2023 in both houses of Congress after removing the provision on financing from state pension funds. The bicameral conference committee gave its approval less than eight hours after the Senate passed its version of the

bill, marking the end of a six-month process since the bill was first filed in the Lower House. The amended bill includes stricter safeguards in fund management and prohibits investments from various state pension funds, including the Social Security System and Government Service Insurance System. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. clarified that

ABROAD Season 2: Isabel Kanaan's Hit Comedy Series Returns

On June 11 at 8:30 pm ET, get ready for laughter as the highly anticipated Season 2 of the hilarious satirical sketch comedy series, ABROAD, hits the screens on OMNI TV. Created by the talented Filipina comedian, Isabel Kanaan, ABROAD has garnered a Canadian Screen Award nomination and features eight weekly episodes in English and Tagalog, all centered around the immigrant experience in Canada.

Since its debut in 2022, ABROAD sketches have taken the internet by storm, going viral

the government has no intention of using state pension money as a "seed fund" for the MIF, but the decision to invest in the sovereign wealth fund lies with the pension funds themselves. The bill is expected to be signed into law by President Marcos before his second State of the Nation Address on July 24.

The Philippines, a predominantly Catholic nation, still prohibits divorce, leaving many individuals trapped in unhappy marriages and struggling to escape abusive relationships. In desperation, some people resort to online scams promising quick solutions.

The Philippines is the only country, apart from the Vatican, where divorce is illegal, largely due to the influential position of the Catholic Church. Advocates for legalizing divorce argue that the ban hinders efforts to leave abusive partners and obstructs amicable separations. Recent surveys indicate a shift in public opinion, with increasing support for the legalization of divorce. Several

lawmakers are now leading a renewed campaign for divorce legislation.

Critics, including the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines, argue that the country should uphold the traditional concept of marriage. They claim that legalizing divorce would perpetuate violence and fail to address the underlying issues in dysfunctional relationships.

As victims of the slow and expensive annulment process become targets of fraudulent services, there are urgent calls for legislative reform. While the pursuit of divorce continues, a number of married people remain in a state of limbo, unable to remarry or find closure until their previous marriages are legally dissolved.

worldwide with millions of views. Isabel receives messages from fans across the globe, eagerly asking where they can catch the show. Unfortunately, for now, it's exclusively available in Canada through OMNI, leaving fans outside the country heartbroken.

Isabel said “In season 1, we did jokes that we as Filipino-Canadians have been joking about for ages but haven't seen on TV. ABROAD was a great way to showcase that. In season 2, we're joking about things that maybe some Filipino-Canadians haven't thought of, or addressed yet. It's a great way to get these issues and themes out there.”

Photo: AFP

Photo source: Win Gatchalian Twitter @WinGatchalian74

TAPE Inc Issues Statement on Departure of TVJ from Eat Bulaga; co-hosts and staff resign too

Television and Production

Exponents Inc. (TAPE) has released an official statement in response to the departure of "Eat Bulaga" hosts from the production company, a day after the 43-year old noontime show was not allowed to air live and after the main host Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon aired their side via Facebook live. The company expressed sadness over the turn of events, acknowledging the hosts' decision to leave both "Eat Bulaga" and GMA 7 Network, their home for 28 years.

However, TAPE emphasized that the success of the long-running noontime show does not solely rely on three individuals. They expressed gratitude to the dedicated team members who have worked tirelessly for the past 43 years to make "Eat Bulaga" the number one show. The company also thanked GMA 7 for their support in making the program even more exciting for the viewers.

TAPE reassured the public that despite the hosts' departure, "Eat Bulaga" will continue to provide quality entertainment. They urged fans to stay tuned for upcoming news and promised to bring more joy and excitement to every Filipino through the show's segments.

The statement concluded by acknowledging that changes

happen in life, but it is important to move forward. TAPE expressed its commitment to serving the Filipino audience and thanked everyone for their support.

Meanwhile, after TVJ resigned, Eat Bulaga co-hosts Jose Manalo, Wally Bayola, Paolo Ballesteros, Maine Mendoza, Allan K, Ryan Agoncillo, and Ryzza Mae Dizon have also submitted their resignation letters to TAPE's president, Romeo Jalosjos Jr.

Pauleen Luna, Vic's wife, shared a copy of the hosts' resignation letter on her Instagram page. Luna also revealed that the writers, sales team, production crew, and cameramen have also resigned in solidarity with TVJ.

Voltes V: Legacy, Dingdong Dantes, Sen. Bong Revilla, and Rocco Nacino headline

GMA Pinoy TV’s lineup for June

GMA Network's international flagship channel is set to offer the best in entertainment programs and a blockbuster movie lineup to our global Filipinos this June. With the successful launch of the much-awaited world-class visual effect live action series Voltes V: Legacy and the highly anticipated collaboration drama Unbreak My Heart, viewers can expect a memorable entertainment experience that will keep them glued to their screens.

On June 5, get ready to laugh your hearts out with the spin-off of the hit and classic movie “Walang Matigas Na Pulis sa Matinik na Misis.” Starring Sen. Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., multi-talented actress Beauty Gonzalez, and sought-after Sparkle leading lady Max Collins, the series promises a hilarious wild ride with the adventures of Police Major Bartolome Reynaldo (Sen. Bong) and his wife Gloria (Beauty).

TAPE reiterated that the world will keep turning despite the hosts' departure, indicating their commitment to moving forward.

Sara G and John Lloyd Cruz Reunite, Sparking Excitement for Potential Project

Sarah Geronimo sparks excitement among fans as she reunites with John Lloyd Cruz at the Viva headquarters,

hinting at a possible new project. The beloved on-screen duo, known for their romantic-comedy trilogy, shared photos of their reunion on

Instagram, leaving fans curious about what's in store. Directed by Cathy Garcia Molina, the trilogy, including films like "A Very Special Love" and "It Takes a Man and a Woman," was a huge success. Sarah and John Lloyd last collaborated in the 2017 rom-com "Finally Found Someone." In addition to this reunion, Sarah also confirmed her upcoming joint concert with Bamboo, following her successful 20th-anniversary concert. Fans can catch the dynamic duo on July 7 at the Big Dome, where they previously worked together as coaches/judges on "The Voice of the Philippines."

This Father’s Month, prepare to be captivated by Kapuso Primetime King Dingdong Dantes as he returns to the drama screen in “Royal Blood.” Along with Mikael Daez and Rhian Ramos, this murder mystery drama will surely deliver stellar performances that will surely keep the viewers on the edge of their seats.

“Luv Is: Love at First Read,” on the other hand, will touch your heart with its compelling love story. Starring sought-after Sparkle love team Mavy Legaspi and Kyline Alcantara, this series follows the story of Kudos (Mavy), a secret romantic searching for the perfect girl. Later on, he finds a diary and believes that the owner of it, Abby (Kyline), is the one for him.

Photo source: Sarah Geronimo Instagram @ justsarahgph

Photo source: Philstar.com

Photo source: Pauleen Luna Instagram @ pauleenlunasotto

by Gem and Lita Anis

THE EIFFEL TOWER

You're in Paris so it is must to visit the Eiffel Tower!

Mahatma Gandhi, India's leader of non-violent independence movement. once said, "Men flocked to see it and ascended it as it was a novelty and of unique dimensions. It was the toy of the exhibition. So long as we are children we are attracted by toys, and the tower was a good demonstration of the fact that we are all children attracted by trinkets. That may be claimed to be the purpose served by the Eiffel Tower".

Soaring above the French capital city skyline the Paris's symbol symbol is without doubt the Eiffel Tower. Locally nicknamed "La dame de fer" (French for "Iron Lady"), the Eiffel Tower was constructed from 1887 to 1889 as the centerpiece of the 1889 World's Fair. It was the world's tallest building until 1931 when New York's Empire State was completed. In 1964 the wrought-

iron lattice tower was designated a monument historique and was named part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.

Designed by Engineer Gustave Eiffel, the tower is 330 meters (1,083 feet) high about the same height as an 81-storey building. Made of 15,000 pig-iron struts joined with 2.5 million rivets, the extremely light interlaced structure stands as an architectural masterpiece by itself. The Eiffel Tower is repainted every 7 (seven) years with tons of dark brown paint to keep her young. The tower was once yellow!

The tower has three levels. The first level at 57 m (187 ft.) high can be reached by lift or by climbing the 360 steps. You can mail you postcard - there's a post office here. The second level at 115 m (376 ft) is reached also by a lift or 359 steps from the first level. Located here is the legendary and famous "Le Jules Verne", a gourmet restaurant

and one of the best restaurants in Paris with its sleek all-black decor and superb food. At 276 m (905 ft.) above the ground, the third level is the viewing platform, the highest observation deck accessible to the public in the whole European Union which can accommodate 800 people at a time. On a clear day it is possible to see for over 70 kms. (43 miles) distance in every direction from the top of the tower. The top level is usually accessible only by lift although there is also a staircase. On this top third level is a private apartment made for Gustave Eiffel's private use!

Beneath the Eiffel Tower is the green area of the Champsde-Mars field which used to be a military field now transformed into a garden. Permanently affixed at the sides of the tower just beneath the first platform are the names of seventy-two (72) French scientists and other famous persons of the country.

Inspiring many crazy or daring stunts the Eiffel Tower has been climbed by mountaineers and adventurers. In 1912, a Parisian tailor named Franz Reichelt tried to fly from the tower's first floor with a spring-loaded parachute but

crashed to the ground instead with a fatal result. Fourteen (14) years later Leon Collot, an aviator, was killed when his plane crashed in a ball of flame after attempting to fly it beneath the span of the tower. With seven million visitors a year, there are long waits in the busy periods, so queuing for the lifts to climb the tower requires patience. And be sure you purchase your tickets to ascend by stairs or lift to the first and second levels, making the Eiffel Tower the most-visited paid monument on the planet. Experience and enjoy the Eiffel Tower as we did!

Gem & Lita in front of Eiffel Tower at daytime Gem & Lita in front of the glittering Eiffel Tower Gem & Lita in front of the glittering Eiffel Tower