My Own Space

Thanksgiving Holiday

2009-11-24T12:48:00.002-05:00

Benefit Dining Event for Tyhpoon "Ondoy" Victims

2009-10-05T11:47:00.001-04:00

It's about giving

2009-09-28T10:30:00.009-04:00

Known to everyone the Philippines is prone to natural disasters but its people are always strong and resilient. When they fall they stand up and move on. Typhoon “Ondoy” hit the island of Luzon on weekend and caused floods all over Metro Manila. It was the worst flood in 40 years. Many families are displaced and required medical attention. They’ve lost their houses, their clothing and other personal properties were damaged. Though rain has abated and water has subsided (in some areas), however lack of resources and slow response from our government, some families are still waiting to be rescued and in need of bottled-water, food, and clothing especially in the most-hard hit areas such as Malabon, Navotas, Cainta, Pasig and Marikina City. But why wait for our incompetent local government to act upon, if you have something to offer, please do so and donate to the Philippine Red Cross. Big or small donation can make a huge difference to every family flood victim.

IndioBravo Filipino Film Festival

2009-05-25T10:45:00.001-04:00

In the upcoming celebration of Philippine’s Independence Day next month, the Indio Bravo Film Foundation features its first IndioBravo Filipino Film Festival from June 11th through the 14th in New York City.

For additional information, click the following URL address below:
Indio Bravo

A Mother's Day

2009-05-10T09:39:00.000-04:00

There are moms that are good to be true and there are moms that are true to be good. Either your mom is a quintessential mother – a tireless wife, pretty, mother and homemaker, the ideal mom June Cleaver. Or your mom is a bossy, loud, caustic and dominant woman, somewhat a real mom, Roseanne Conner.

I grew up watching Roseanne Conner in the late 1980’s. Thanks to re-runs I was able to watch June Cleaver as well. My mom is nothing like both mothers on T.V shows but similar to both. The characteristics, traits and personality of a mother both T.V. moms depict every mother.

So what matters, our mothers in general are the ones who nurse us, protect us, and mold us to face the society that we are about to take. The mother love is a fuel that enables us to do the impossible. Thank you for always being there for us.

Thank You

2009-04-19T04:42:00.002-04:00

Since I got back from a 2-week vacation, I’ve been thinking about being not appreciated by some of my classmates in high school. A thank-you note (or a text message or phone call) would have been sufficed. Only a handful of them will make an effort to send you a thank-you note. No, there’s only one who sent me a thank-you note.

A thank-you note encourages a person to feel that he/she is being appreciated.

At work you find your boss or subordinates giving you a tap on your back or saying thank you for a job well done. I don’t want to sound whiny about this but everyone deserves to be thanked. Nothing is big or small when you send a thank-you note to a person.

I didn’t join my classmates to their out-of-town in Nakar, Quezon because of my conflict schedule so I offered to prepare and cook one of my specialties, paella valenciana, for them to bring to their overnight outing. I wanted to be special for them so I spent days looking for the right ingredients. Practically scouring the whole Metro Manila, I went to Pure Gold, Walter Mart, Shopwise and even Farmers Market and Q-Mart only to look for those ingredients I needed for my paella. And that effort was not even appreciated.

I felt bad about myself when I didn’t get any feedback from them.

I believe there’s always a room for improvement if any so I could use constructive criticisms from them.

Except for one person whom I really consider her a great friend did thank me. The rest of them, who dey?

One of my high school classmates, now lives in Canada, has suggested that I should be used to it by now. But I don’t understand that because in our culture we always say “po” and “opo” to express our respect and appreciation. Why a thank-you note is not part of it? Am I missing something? Have I lived in the U.S. long enough that I’m no longer aware of my own culture? Don’t think so.

Jetlag

2009-04-18T05:19:00.004-04:00

I flew in back from Manila on Easter Sunday but when I got into my apartment at around 5 P.M., I felt unusually vigor for I slept all through the flight from Nagoya, Japan to Detroit, Michigan, as port of my entry. And I had high energy to go on for my connecting flight to NYC. Sleeping all through the flight, perhaps, was not a good idea. I would take the consequence afterwards and so I did.

On Sunday it is going to be a week since I got back from a two weeks vacation. Unfortunately, I haven’t had gotten back my sleeping habit or at least routine. Since Monday as soon as I get home from work, I hit the bed and sleep through midnight. I wake up hungry. I don’t go back to bed not until around 3 A.M. or 4 A.M. then get up at 7 A.M for work. Though this sleeping pattern is kind of weird to me, at work I have full of energy that benefits me because I am able to focus working on my special projects, attending meetings, and testing new corporate system without looking droopy or red eyes. No weary eyes even suits my tan I got from a sunny beach of Zambales.

What I do between my waking up hours is to watch my favorite reality shows on online that I’d missed while I was in Manila. Obviously I’m still awake to blog about it. I don’t know when this peculiar routine would last. I hope it will be soon.

Incidentally, today's my younger brother's birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRO!

Customer "UN"satisfaction

2009-03-20T15:57:00.002-04:00

I’m frustrated and disappointed with Globe Telecom Philippines the way they have been handling my problem. Even after two weeks and seven calls to their hotline attempting to find answers for experiencing an on-and-off signal on my handyphone, none of the representatives I talked with could not provide me a decent explanation. As usual they were trained to be polite and apologetic and they tirelessly reactivate my roaming service for the 7th times in two weeks. But it’s becoming annoying. If there's network glitch, why can't they say so? At least they give assurance that it's not my SIM card that I need to upgrade.

DST

2009-03-08T10:22:00.000-04:00

Losing an hour of sleep and gaining more daylights as the daylight-savings time starts on second Sunday of March; it used to be April, so here I am got up early to get online.

Last night I just sealed one of my two “balikbayan” boxes which I’m bringing back to the Philippines on March 28th. I’m spending holy week in Manila then flying back to NYC on Easter Sunday.

I only have two weeks vacation because my boss would not let me take three weeks. I’m told that the new system will be implemented on the week of April 12th. He needs me to be around in case some issues come up.

We have spring-like weather today – high 60’s degrees F.

Returns

2009-02-16T10:53:00.002-05:00

It’s Presidents' Day. Thank goodness it’s a federal holiday so I have time to work on my income tax return. I suppose that's the right word “return”. I’m returning the money that I worked hard for to IRS so the government can use as bailout money for the greedy and irresponsible top executives.

Inappropriate Behavior

2009-02-02T11:49:00.004-05:00

Who among us who have had not done "inappropriate behaviors" in our early years? I’m not a fan of Michael Phelps though his winning of 18 Olympic gold medals for swimming has been an inspiration for every young athlete. In defense of his recent pot-smoking scandal I think he was just acting like every 23 years old. He has apologized and admitted that he acted inappropriately so I wish the press should allow him to redeem himself. I’m not condoning of what he did. He should have thought twice of getting into this mess since he has been a role model for young kids. Nevertheless, I’m confident that this won’t kill Michael’s career.

Pilipino ka pala.

2009-01-20T13:06:00.004-05:00

Sunday I was in NJ for my sister’s birthday. We celebrated in a Japanese buffet restaurant in East Brunswick. I was in line for my dessert when a lovely old lady who was in front of me seemed to having a hard time scooping the “solid-rocked” ice-cream. I offered a hand and said, “Gusto nyo po ako ang mag-scoop para sa inyo,” I knew she was a Filipino because I heard her talking in Tagalog. She looked at me in shock and said, “Ay! Pilipino ka pala. Akala ko intsik ka.”

Year of Optimism

2009-01-01T10:16:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year and welcome 2009!

People Listen

2008-12-30T15:31:00.002-05:00

Coming from my lunch break today, I forcely listened with two guys having a sort of “personal” conversation in the elevator. The other guy was telling to his colleague in a soft voice (intented for me not to clearly hear it), “She married a rich dude. Do you think she would…” then the elevator doors open on my floor.

Digicam

2008-12-28T14:08:00.002-05:00

Year-end is just around the corner and you know what that means to some of us. It’s that time again to create a list of New Year resolutions, either you follow through or ignore and make another list for next year. But there’s one thing that I’ve been meaning to do for years since it came out in the mainstream – to buy a digital camera. Yes, I’m still using my old camera that requires 300 ASA film. It’s a load and click but certainly captures good memories and high quality pictures well enough to keep them years to come. That camera was a Christmas gift to me by my sister in 1995.

I’m still wearing my old Seiko quartz wrist watch that my mum gave to me on October 1982.

I keep all my vinyl records – music from different genre.

I prefer to buy CDs and play them on my walkman instead of downloading music and listen to i-pod.

And yes, I still have the VHS player but because lately it’s been difficult to find VHS tape, I had to acquire a DVD player that has region 0.

I tend to hold on things for sentiment reason.

Northwest and Delta Airlines

2008-12-18T10:00:00.000-05:00

Northwest Airlines has always been good to me whenever I travel domestic in a coach flight, they upgrade me to first class. And I am loyal to the airline since 1991. I fly world business class to Asia all the time. However, since NW filed and came out from bankruptcy, flight delays have soared and become a nightmare to travelers especially those with (international) connecting flights. Coming back from Manila via Tokyo, we arrived on time in Minneapolis St Paul only to find that our flights to LGA-NY had been delayed (again) for weather-related and air traffic in LaGuardia Airport. OK for air traffic I can understand, but weather-related, I wasn’t sure about that. CNN weather posted New York City’s weather was in the 60’s. Now that Delta Airlines merged and acquired Northwest Airlines, which I am both a frequent flyer, I’m crossing my fingers that delays would minimize. But I’m afraid both airlines might soon monopolize and skyrocket plane tickets.

My First Christmas Tree

2008-12-17T09:55:00.005-05:00

I was in Manila from Nov 25th through Dec 15th.

It was my first time ever to put up a Christmas tree and first time since I bought my townhouse five years ago.

Lorna and I scoured Metropolitan area to find a supposed to be perfect tree and bought some trimmings and lightings in Tiendesitas to start dressing up the tree.

Deeday helped us to put up the tree. It was tilted a little so I called it the “Leaning Christmas Tree”.

I invited my cousins and their kids, my aunts and uncles, high school classmates and family close friends to bring Christmas trimming for the tree.

For friends that I didn’t get a chance to see them while I was in Manila, I have no valid reason why but I promise to make it up to you all on my next visit.

Crave

2008-10-26T12:11:00.003-04:00

Have you craved for something? Sometimes there’s something you want to nibble but you don’t know what it is. You can’t pin down what type of food you wish to munch. Last night I was out with my “foreign” friends and went to this special place in Lower Manhattan called Petite Abeille, a Belgian restaurant in the Meatpacking district. I knew I was hungry but I sat there browsing the menu for about 15 minutes, which is long enough if someone was waiting for you to take your order while all your friends had already ordered.

Side comment: Notice that I used the word “foreign” loosely. I learned that from Bettina whom I’ve met two months ago through Honey. There’s a story behind that word which I think it’s sort of funny.

Back to my craving, I got beef stew Belgian-style with a glass of red wine.

I was on my way home around 11 P.M. I was on the subway train when suddenly my craving came back to me. I realized what I wanted. I want to eat “sinigang na baboy”.

So this morning I went to Lou Cheng Market and bought pork belly. Then I asked the butcher to cut it in cubes. I also picked tamarind-based soup and some vegetables to mix with it.

I might have cooked too much. I would probably be eating the leftovers for three days.

So this is craving. Now I feel nauseous just looking at it :))

Tomadachi

2008-10-24T12:11:00.007-04:00

Pictures were taken in NYC on Sunday, October 19, 2008. Friends from Japan came to visit me on my birthday; with Yuri, Dizza, Yugi, and Christopher

Mesa Grill

2008-10-14T21:08:00.003-04:00

My birthday is not until this Sunday, but my brother (along with my sister-in-law and my 10-year-old niece), and my two sisters took me out for dinner at one of my favorite restaurants – Mesa Grill (owner Food Network star chef Bobby Flay). The last time I’d eaten in Mesa Grill was two years ago and I’ve always wanted to go back. But it’s been holding me and my friends back because of its high price (and yet it is worth every bite). And tonight it was awesome! Not only that I was with the company of my loving and dear family, the food was simply mouth-watering and the service was charming and pleasant. I can’t wait to go back for another scrumptious experience.

A Different Kind of Experience

2008-09-29T13:09:00.007-04:00

It was dreary Saturday in Manhattan. The skyline was like Gotham, bleak and gloomy. It was cloudy, on and off drizzle and some heavy rain. It was muggy and foggy the whole weekend. The lousy weather didn’t keep us from going out though.

Saturday we met in Grand Central Station by the big clock at 2 PM then we walked down to 2nd Avenue and 42nd Street to catch the M15 bus to downtown for late lunch at Grill 21. It was crowded when we got to the restaurant so we waited for 5 minutes to be seated.

After our delectable lunch (of sinigang na baboy, daing na bangus, and mixed pancit), we headed back to M15 bus stop to lower Manhattan for the circus-cabaret show that camp out in north side of Pier 17 South Street Seaport.

It was a night of clever seduction, passion and deceit not to mention breathtaking displays of acrobatic wonder; a theatrical circus experience that will take you backstage at the greatest nightclub. Boy meets girls meets girls meets boy meets boy. At least that’s the plot of “Désir”, the jewel of Paris, in the early 20th century.

“Désir” is a different show that I have had seen in New York City. It is a cavalcade of beauties and hard bodies that I found myself voyeuristic that suggests some couplings (and tripling) acrobats and high-flying exercise in between ground and air. It was also like watching Victoria’s Secret runway show where performers were so attractive that you might develop such crushes. Then there was the charming floppy-haired Persian walked on a tightrope. That was a show stopper.

“Désir” was a whole different kind of experience and yet interesting and entertaining.

Proud and Gay

2008-09-25T11:13:00.003-04:00

Clay Aiken is gay? Wow, that’s a shock. It’s like being told that Chris Daughtry is bald. Or that David Cook uses hair gel. Or that Ruben Studdard is fat. On a recent issue of People Magazine, Clay comes out – just like Neil Patrick Harris did. Nevertheless, kudos to him for being candid about his sexuality and he should be proud for coming out courageously. He did the right thing. Good for him.

The Forum

2008-09-22T10:25:00.004-04:00

Landmark Education was initially introduced to me by Shanna six years ago. Until this Saturday I did actually sit in and participate through the invitation of a very good friend Honey (scroll down for Wednesday Blogger). She also happened to be our speaker. I’ve known her for quite a while and yet I didn’t know how passionate she was as a “lecturer” and surprisingly humorous. Though I was outnumbered by six females, everyone was responsive and the mood in the room was unexpectedly friendly and respectful. It was the moment when we shared opinions, past experiences and plans for the future. Learning from each of them how they cope with distress, frustrations and disappointments impelled me to rethink about living and relating with others in a more positive way.

Wall Street

2008-09-15T12:27:00.003-04:00

These days it is inadvertent not to talk about the slowing down of the U.S. economy. Even around the water cooler the Wall Street meltdown has been our topic since Bears Stearns’ demise then recent fallout of two big financial institutions. These failures have significantly impacted us psychologically; about our well-being and the integrity of the financial system. The economy is likely our top priority in the upcoming national election in November that will spur a much greater focus by presidential candidates.

September 11

2008-09-11T13:45:00.002-04:00

Today marks the 7th anniversary of 9/11. This morning I overhead on the subway train two women shared opinions about the 9/11. It got me when one woman said that "Why can’t New Yorker just move on?" I felt I needed to get involved with their thought-provoking conversation but I hesitated not to stir up the flame. These two women were already heated the argument of should or shouldn’t continue to honor and remember the 9/11 and move on just like everyone else. Some passengers rolled their eyes and their faces painted with dismay and shock of what they were hearing from a callous heart. Though I respectfully agreed with her that we should move on and yet it would be shameful not to remember and honor the innocent victims of the 9/11 attack. I know I am not like everyone else. I will never forget that one of my college friends died and his remain has not been identified. My friend’s family clings to hope that someday or soon that Michael’s remain will be identified. Michael's family needs closure.

Wushu

2008-08-27T10:52:00.002-04:00

I’ve mentioned from my previous blog that the Philippines has yet to win gold medal in the Olympics. Although “wushu” was not an official Olympic sport, our very own Willy Wang had taken the championship in the men’s Nanquan and Nangun at the recent Beijing Olympics. Still the gold medal he brought back has a special meaning.

A significant component of China’s cultural heritage, wushu said to be training for life. Wushu literally translated as “wu” means military and “shu” is art. Not only wushu is practiced all over China but also in the streets and parks of New York City. In Woodside where I live, I’ve seen people from different cultural background perform solo, paired or group in the park and sometimes they use traditional Chinese weapons. I find the movements are actually beautiful which is similar to Tai Chi. I once told that wushu is a sport that can practiced whole life. It is training for body and soul.

When Japan hosted the Summer Olympics in 1964, they introduced Judo and Korea kicked off Taekwondo in 1988 Seoul Olympics. For now wushu was an exhibition event, but China is pushing hard to make it an Olympic sport.

My Olympics Recap

2008-08-25T12:30:00.006-04:00

The number 8 that said to be auspicious in Chinese culture ended with a bang in Bird’s Nest Stadium on Sunday night. Beijing delivered spectacular and mind-boggling choreographs with incredible precision in the opening ceremony then dazzled the audiences from across the globe in the closing ceremony with displays of lavish fireworks and impressive scripted merriment. The 16-day of glory, the agony of defeat, the moments that make memories and the judging and scoring controversies in Beijing are now part of the Olympics history.

Some life stories crashed with intriguing tales of glory and tragedy. Samia Yusuf Omar is a girl from Somalia, a country of a decades-long civil war, who competed in the 200-meter dash and finished last but with great joy and pride. Bringing the Somali flag and standing with best athletes was her proudest memory and lifetime experience. American Hugh McCutcheon’s heartache and Chinese Liu Xian’s disappointment left our hearts heavy. And the electrifying runs of Usain Bolt from Jamaica and the strokes of determination of Michael Phelps of the USA inspired everyone.

Romanian Nadia Comaneci was just 14 when she scored a perfect 10 to win gold in 1976 Montreal Olympics. Being a young gymnast then wasn’t a bad thing. That is to remind sour-grape Romanian-American Martha Karolyi when she kept smearing the Chinese gymnasts every time they stuck their landings with comments like “Those little babies.” The age confusion, according to China’s deputy sports minister, has attributed to a paperwork mistake during a team transfer. Whatever it was, after all, the philosophy of the time was old enough to vault, old enough to compete.

But that didn’t stop the Karolyis bad mouthed when American Nastia Luikin and Chinese He Kexin earned identical scores of 16.725 on the uneven bars. Bela Karolyi, Martha's husband, had reason to believe that the new scoring system should have been flawless but he seemed to have a lack of knowledge on mathematical scorings. If there’s a tie in A-score (difficulty) and B-score (execution), each judge sums up his/her deductions. Nastia Luikin found to have greater deductions than He Kexin.

Wrestler Ara Abrahamian of Sweden dropped his bronze medal in disgust was justified by the Court of Arbitration for Sport. The judges said that Abrahamian was right to protest against the International Federation of Associated Wrestling Styles for refusing to review the video after a disputed call. This kind of loophole needs to be fixed because this happens all the time.

Most shocking without a doubt when Cuba’s Taekwondo Angel Matos deliberately kicked a referee square in the face and pushed one of the judges after he was disqualified in a bronze-medal match for taking too much injury time. The rule fighters get one minute time only. Matos’ time ran out.

Flashy swimsuits can also be put on a spotlight. The Spanish synchronize swimmers, Andrea Fuentes and Gemma Mengual, wanted to wear swimsuits with embedded waterproof lights, but the suits banned by swimming’s world governing body. It would have been fun to watch if they were allowed to wear those lights. “It looks a bit like Christmas lights,” Fuentes said.

Six athletes represented the Philippines in the Beijing Olympics. It’s long enough that the Philippines hasn’t won any medals. What we need is a government support and public and private sectors sponsorships. We should step up to improve sports facilities and train our athletes up to their potentials.

Pressures

2008-08-15T10:47:00.003-04:00

For the past weeks I have been overwhelmed and inundated with projects and reports to generate and their deadlines were so tight. There were times that I would not even get up and leave my cubicle just to go to the men's room. For over 20 years that I’ve been working, it was the first time I’ve experienced coming in to work early and leaving late. Yet after the pandemonium (sometimes confusions) to meet my deadline for each, I felt great after our big boss gave me a pat on my back. He said I did excellent jobs with those financial reports that were presented to the board of directors and officers. Today it will be a relaxing day – which I have time to update my blog, evidently. Then I thought about it so hard, I have nothing to write except this one.

Spain's Fallout

2008-08-12T19:24:00.003-04:00

Spain’s Olympic basketball team shows all its players slanting their eyes posing for an advertisement prior to the Games; they claimed to be funny or at least try to be one. But it turned out to be not. Living in a politically-incorrect-world, this type of image is offensive to Asians across the globe. However this team and the organizer defend themselves, this picture was taken in poor taste and judgment. The idea was ridiculous and racist.

Happy Birthday Mom

2008-08-10T18:40:00.000-04:00

Today my mom’s celebrating her 70th. Four years ago she came out from retirement and started to go back to work. At her age, she has not stopped moving around nor she would ever slow down. Every time she always amazes me for her high spirit and energy. I spoke with her this morning and seemed to be having a great time in San Francisco with her cousins. She still manages to travel from coast to coast and across the pacific, three or four times a year. I wish her to be in great shape for two more decades.

The Washers

2008-07-20T09:53:00.007-04:00

For the past few weeks my old washing machine had been acting up. It stopped spinning in the middle of a rinse and water leaked coming from its tank. And for the past few weeks I tried to be a handyman finding possible causes of spin cycle to sudden stop and water leaks. With no avail, I’m not really a guy who can fix any appliances, so I called my brother and asked him to take a look on my old washer. Because he lives in New Jersey and wants to avoid driving to New York for an hour and half (also possibly gets stuck in the city traffic), the first thing he asked me on the phone was "How old is your washing machine?" I told him it was about 10 years old. I started working at 34th Street and 5th Avenue in 1997 and I had that washer already so that would be more than 10 years old. He laughed and said that I should buy a new one.

On Monday I searched online and printed some information about washers to find what would be the best for me; its performance, price, spin cycles etc. On that day I got off from work an hour early and headed to the appliance store in Rego Park, Queens. On the same day I bought a new one and requested to deliver it on a weekend, preferably Saturday, and haul away the disconnected old washer. I also informed the salesperson that I didn’t have proper tools to disconnect the old and install the new so I needed someone to do it for me. The salesperson added instructions noting my requests on my receipt.

The delivery was on time. They arrived around 9 a.m. But there was a problem because I was told that they only deliver the new one and take away the old. They were not allowed to disconnect and install washers. I was told that they were cautious about plumbing and ducked out the blame for if anything happened. To me that was a big BS. I didn't offer to pay them because it said on the reciept "free installation". I refused to sign the delivery form but they would take back the new one. And the next time I will be charged for the delivery. Anyway I compromised but disappointed. They left me with the new one uninstalled and the old washer. When the old washer will be disconnected, they said to call the store to reschedule for pick up. Frustrated and upset, I called my brother to help me disconnect and install the washers.

I learned my lesson and not to go back to P.C. Richard and Son. I should have initially listened to my brother to order from Home Depot or Sears; these two companies are more reliable and with a high customer satisfaction rate. Now my old washer is lying around in my living room and is waiting for next week pick up.

My Own Dilemma

2008-07-15T14:45:00.002-04:00

To work or not to work from home.

I sit in my cubicle and hammer my computer keyboard all day, why can’t I do this in the comfort of my home? If I work remotely, I can be spared a hefty overpriced cafeteria lunches. I’ll be able to stay away from co-workers who are constantly stopping by to interrupt my workflow or otherwise just to chit-chat that slows my progress. I can avoid the shoving and pushing in the subway trains during the rush hours. I can even give my nose a break for that strong smell of a perfume and body odors.

But then again, it is convenient to have a cubicle neighbor pop over for help to solve a quick problem than try to call in for help. I also think that a necessary and productive meeting is usually best served in the office.

There's no reason why I cannot work from home once or twice a week.

Ex-roommate or maybe not...

2008-07-13T21:03:00.005-04:00

I have to admit when Frank came over this afternoon to pick up his stuff and moved out officially, I felt the whole apartment was empty. He was my first roommate ever, except for my two younger brothers when they were both attending college in Manhattan, I didn’t realize that he and I would get along well.

Here are a few things that I will miss about Frank, on a positive note:

1) leaving his toothbrush or mouthguard in the shower
2) leaving the bathroom floor wet after taking a shower
3) coming home at 2 a.m. from his externship and trying his best to be super quiet
4) struggling with the toilet’s flapper; though he replaced and fixed it before he left
5) having Sunday brunch in La Flor and being seated in the same spot
6) hearing his alarm clock from his cell phone on Saturday and Sunday mornings
7) waiting for him to come home in the wee hours of Saturdays or Sundays to make snacks

Nonetheless, Frank is always welcome to crash in.

Passion for Food

2008-07-09T11:05:00.005-04:00

One of the reasons why I love living in New York is because of my passion for food. I always enjoy dining out with my family and friends. The Restaurant Week starts off this month and many restaurants participate in this mouth-watering event, but sometimes it may be difficult to know which choices are best. Because the value of a Restaurant Week meal varies significantly from place to place, perhaps these links will provide you where you can enjoy a great meal, deal as well as service.
Restaurant Week
Open Table

Friends and Roommate

2008-07-07T12:30:00.008-04:00

I’ve no regrets in choosing to stay home and spend a quality time with my niece, Khristina, and her boyfriend, Frank on the 4th of July weekend instead of going to Fire Island with my friends and watch another meaningless gay pageant. I had a wonderful weekend with Khristina and Frank but the best time was when we watched a movie “Vantage Point” on DVD together. It was our first movie night since Frank moved in. I hope it won’t be the last.

When Frank moved into my apartment this March so he can be closer to his externship in Café Boulud, I had mixed feelings about it because I never had a roommate. I know there are things that I could not probably do when he’s around such as walking around my underwear (sometimes naked) or leaving the bathroom door while taking a shower (or pooping). Then I thought it was only for four months maybe I could handle it so I said yes. Besides I’ve also wanted to get know more about Khristina. She and I have little chance to talk or see each other; only when there’s a family-get-together in NJ. If Frank would stay with me, Khristina would be coming more often to NY on weekends to be with him. It is a perfect arrangement.

This month, Frank, as initially planned, is moving out. But I told him if he needs a place to crash in I could always use a roommate. It is a great feeling that I have a roommate whom I can be comfortable with and most importantly bond with my niece.

Khristina and Frank will be away for a long three weeks vacation and adventures in Mexico. I will absolutely miss them around; my new friends.

Waterfalls in NYC

2008-06-27T11:54:00.002-04:00

I want to share to you a site about a Danish artist who brought his vision to reality by creating waterfalls in NYC – Lower Manhattan. Who would have thought waterfalls in Manhattan? It sounds inconceivable but with hard work anything is possible. The 4 waterfalls creations are just amazing and we are lucky enough to have these views from our office building in the Wall Street area. NYC Waterfalls

Blame Game

2008-06-26T14:05:00.001-04:00

The blame game is designed to find excuses and displacements for own social capital and political interest. The mistakes made by both parties – Sulpicio Lines and the Philippine Coast Guard – plunges our maritime into a deepest trouble. The effort to blame one group over the other seems to confuse the real issue. Nobody seems to take full responsibility and accountability of the actions or inactions of the recent sea tragic causing hundreds of deaths. Sulpicio Lines is the epitome of negligence and mismanagement for years and is still in business. It is shameful that fellow Filipinos have to suffer serious consequences by flawed management and our system seems to disregard of human lives to their own capital interest.

No Excuses

2008-06-25T22:12:00.007-04:00

Officials of Sulpicio Lines told a marine inquiry Wednesday that “an act of God” – not engine failure that capsized the MV Princess of the Stars during last week’s raging typhoon in the Philippines causing the death of at least hundreds of passengers and crews.

While the families of the victims mourn of their deaths and seek for answers, officials of Sulpicio Lines have been docking away for days. Today I am in total shock when I read the headline on the Philippine Inquirer (inquirer.net) – “An Act of God”.

Let me put this in perspective.

Maybe it was a force of nature that sank the vessel but it was not an act of God as claimed by those morons and imbeciles of Sulpicio Lines. This was not the first time that the shipping lines – that wonders me why they are still in business – had struck tragedy. If Sulpicio management and the Philippine coast guard have reason to believe that the shipping lines have a high threshold risk, why in the first place the vessel was out in the sea? Despite of the obvious rough seas, they chose to set sail instead of to wait until the weather would get better. Have they ever learned from their three previous disasters? These irrational behaviors from the management are inexcusable and appalling. They should be held liable and accountable of the death of hundreds innocent people. And the shipping lines should be grounded indefinitely.

Sofia's Birthday at Dampa Ortigas

2008-06-17T10:11:00.009-04:00

Photo courtesy of Nelson

From B-movie To Softball

2008-06-16T11:36:00.003-04:00

This weekend was very busy; on Saturday I went to see the M. Night Shyamalan’s new film The Happening with my brother and on Sunday we had a family-close-friends barbeque party at my brother’s house in East Brunswick, NJ to celebrate Father’s Day.

The Sixth Sense is the only movie that I think Shyamalan nailed it and is still hanging to the all time top 100 movies in the U.S. and Canada. The rest of his films are disappointing – The Village and Lady in the Water were so and so. The Signs was just okay. Now this time, The Happening is worst than a B-movie. The directions and acting are terrible. Mark Wahlberg is a fine actor but in this film he delivers B-movie acting. I strongly suggest saving your money from seeing this non-sense-fuzzy film. Not worth a dime.

Father’s Day was also a big event for the whole family and with some friends. My brother prepared lobsters, grilled steaks, skewered shrimps, pork barbeque, and lots of grilled veggies. In his backyard we played softball – kids vs. adults. Can you guess who won? It was a fun game but adults could not seem to catch up with the kids’ energy. I supposed their arthritis slowed them down to slide in to the base.

A Thrilling Combination

2008-06-13T13:20:00.005-04:00

Mario Lopez plays Zach

I was a college student when my first Broadway experience happened in the late spring of 1982. I remember my first time watching A Chorus Line; I was seated in the rear mezzanine looking down on an empty stage. When the curtain rose up and the lights came up, the only visible were mirrors and dancers in rehearsal clothes trying new steps.

A Chorus Line, the longest running show, ran on Broadway from 1975 to 1990, has returned to Broadway in the fall of 2006 for another musical kicks. I saw it again last night and this time I seated in the center of front mezzanine. The choreography and the music, yet it feels nothing revival, are timeless state-of-the-art. It is like a vintage wine that it gets better as it aged. After 26 years, it’s still the best Broadway musical. This Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning musical continues to be a singular sensation.

What makes A Chorus Line the best Broadway musical ever? For it is plain and simple. No gimmick. No special technical effects. It’s just an empty theatre. On a bare stage 17 dancers audition for a chance of a lifetime to dance. The sweats, the hours of training and the lives of every dancer, they put it all on the line to fulfill their dreams.

What I did for love? is the anthem of the show, led by Morales. In the movie version it was sung by Cassie in connection to her love with Zach which diminishes the meaning of this powerful song. Yet it always works on the stage where it belongs.

Vinyl is Back

2008-06-11T09:37:00.007-04:00

Yesterday after work, my friend from college and I scoured the east and west village looking for vinyl record of Edith Piaff. We started from 4:30 PM and we finished around 10 PM which I blamed him for missing my favorite show on TV. We found some of Piaff’s classic records but didn’t find what my friend was looking for. Then I suggested to him that go to Amazon.com. They created a special vinyl-only section last fall that got me hooked for loving back my vinyl records. In fact I still have those LPs that I bought from Amsterdam, Lisbon, Athens, and Madrid. When my turntable broke I was so dismayed that I won’t be able to play those LPs. Fortunately, I found a company on the internet that manufactures and replicates 1950's turntable. I ordered one and shipped it to my townhouse in the Philippines as well as those LPs. So when I’m in Manila, I always enjoy playing and listening those LPs. I'm not being nostalgic but I feel it has a better sound. Those i-pods where you can download thousands of music may spin you in mainstream, but there’s nothing like the sound of a vinyl record. Vinyl is back and I'm loving every groove.
Audio Critique

Not Again

2008-06-10T09:45:00.001-04:00

As the price of gasoline per barrel soaring, we have another issue to deal with that keeps on rising. The scorching heat in the Northeast blames some outages in five boroughs of New York City. Yesterday’s high temperature in the city was not a record, but last night I feared there was another blackout when my air conditioner suddenly went out. Then it went back on after a minute. The last time we had blackout in our neighborhood was two years ago. That experience having no power for almost a week was unbearable. The food in the fridge and raw meats were spoiled. I had candle light to get around my apartment during the night. I spent every day eating out. And coming home from work was brutal.

The electric company has allocated billions of dollars to upgrade its cable. Yet the company could not explain what caused the outages where number of homes without electricity last night.

Evergreen

2008-06-03T11:35:00.003-04:00

A dear and long time friend of mine had passed away unexpectedly on May 17th and as I promised to him I would be coming home for his funeral.

Thinking about the happy moments when he was alive and knowing that I would never see his smiles and those laugh lines on his face, it was difficult for me to get a glimpse of him lying in a coffin. The last time I saw him was in January and I want to remember him that way.

He was loved by his family, peers, friends, and even who knew him only for a short time were all there to pay their respects and show their love for him. Ronnie Cruz was an amazing and incredible person I had ever known. He was notoriously generous and his selflessness was unparalleled.

I will certainly miss him every time I come home to Manila.

Ron

2008-05-18T09:42:00.002-04:00

When I got up at 9 a.m. on Saturday I noticed that my answering machine was blinking that indicates someone left a message or messages. First thing I'd thought was who would call me and left me a message in the morning. And I said, “That must be very important.”

When I played the message, it says “Carlo, wala na si Ronnie.” It was an overseas call from the Philippines. My initial reaction was disbelieved and upset because I just spoke with Ronnie on the phone on Monday, though he was in the hospital, he sounded perky and energetic. He was laughing and making jokes. So if that message was a prank that was a bad one. You don’t joke about someone’s death.

To confirm I called a friend (who’s also very close to Ronnie) but he was surprised and like me he refused to believe. I called my brother to check on Ronnie at Delos Santos Memorial Hospital. He sent me text message on my cell phone and said that Ronnie was already discharged from the hospital and sent home.

Still I was not convinced so I called Ronnie’s cell phone. His nephew answered the phone. Ronnie, my best friend and confidant for almost 30 years, left us. He died on Saturday night, Manila time, at Quezon City Medical Center. He was 51.

To My Mom

2008-05-11T10:27:00.006-04:00

This day is the 100th anniversary of Mother’s Day, a reminder of every mother’s accomplishments trying to do the balancing act of being everything to everyone. Instead of giving her flowers and a greeting card, today I want to dedicate this page to my loving and caring mother for nurturing her five children and providing us a cozy safe home.

I was barely six years old when my father died, our eldest sister was ten, and my youngest brother was months old. My mom was an elementary school teacher then. With five young children to take care of, she struggled to financially support us with her teaching salary so she decided to go to the U.S. and left us with our grandmother in Project 4. My mom sold our house in La Loma.

She landed a teaching job in Philadelphia but she said it wasn’t enough to send money for us. So she went back to college and matriculated in nursing. Until we all migrated to the U.S. in 1980, she maintained her day job as a teacher and a night job in hospital as a Registered Nurse to save funds for our college education.

Mom, I have never written you a letter before to tell you how much I am blessed to have you as our mother. All the things that you’d done for us, we owe our success to you. You’d sacrificed your life for us to single handedly provide us the best care and education. You’d thought us to be independent, to be generous and most of all to be a better person.

We thank you and we will always love you. HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY.

Jonah

2008-04-30T13:54:00.003-04:00

For five years, Jonah has been my housekeeper and has taken good care of my 3-storey townhouse in the Philippines while I’m based in New York. I go home once or twice a year to check out the place and I’m always amazed how she has managed the townhouse spotless; the furniture always looks brushed up.

I let her handle my Philippine bank account and pay all the bills. I authorized her to directly communicate with the personnel of Montgomery Place for any issues that might come up concerning to the unit. And over the years, she has exhibited a knack of dealing with people. Her interaction with the personnel in the administration office (and especially neighbors) has earned her great admiration and respect from them, considering her social status in a gated community.

Jonah once told me that some of her fellows were envious of her free will to go out and in into the guarded community. Because for most (or perhaps all) of them are not allowed to go out beyond the gate without homeowner's permission to show to the guards.

With her around, I have less worry to think about and with full confidence that my properties are in good hands. Today I’m saddened that Jonah is leaving me for a job opportunity in Hong Kong. It is hard for me to let her go, but I don’t want to hold her up and steal her chance and dream to go abroad. Nevertheless, I wish her the very best of luck and success!

Lucky Day

2008-04-25T23:00:00.002-04:00

I routinely checked my mailbox before stepping into my apartment and surprised to discover three gift cards loosely sitting in my mailbox. They were not packaged in an envelope - no return address and no recipient. Whether someone set up a prank on me or mere luck to find three Macy’s gift cards with $100, $50 and $25 value in my mailbox, my first instinct was to find out if they were outstanding cards.

I dialed the 800 number that was indicated on the back of the cards and checked the remaining balance, surprisingly enough the cards haven’t been exhausted. Unconvinced and disbelieved, I redialed the number and this time cautiously reentered the bar codes.

Two months ago I found a Metrocard with $20 in it.

An Evening To Remember

2008-04-20T21:43:00.006-04:00

It was truly “An Evening to Remember with Kuh” on April 19th at the Bible Church International Main Hall in New Jersey; it was an incredibly unusual concert. I wish I could talk about her music, haplessly, it was overshadowed by the endorsement of her high end club share business and her preachy tone. But yes, I’m still a fan of her music.

Over two decades ago in Carnegie Hall in New York City when I first witnessed Kuh Ledesma’s concert, by then she was feisty with great energy accompanied by Music and Magic Band and of course she was twenty-something younger. She was undeniably one of the Philippine’s treasures and sought-after singer when she rendered her own powerful and emotional version of “Don’t Cry for me Argentina”. Popularized by Patti Lupone on Broadway’s Evita, that song became Kuh's signature. And with her fashionably two-sided-braided-hair that made every young Filipino girl wanted to be look like her.

Kuh is a prolific singer. She can still deliver great performances on the stage even minus the band and she is certainly aged beautifully, but that Saturday night was weird to me. In between songs, she openly talked about her failed marriage life. She thankfully acknowledged her strong personal relationship with Jesus Christ that made her a better person leaving behind the “mataray” life she had; reading the bible has given her the strength to embrace challenges and hardships in her life. Though those were incessantly (sometimes whiny) not music to my ears, she sounded profound and inspiring to everyone in the hall.

Adding insult to the injury, the second hour was a turn-off when she pitched in to endorse the “Hacienda Isabella” in the Philippines where she is the President and CEO. I thought this concert was peculiar enough because I paid to listen to her music. The fact that she was singing on a karaoke-type-stage and turning-into-a-preachy concert already, the last thing I would expect from her was to feature her club share business.

Because Nessie and I were VIP ticket holders, we got invitations to have a “Tea Time” in the Blue Room with Kuh after her so called “concert”. Needless to say, it was a bait to watch a power point presentation of “Hacienda Isabella.” Of course we had option to leave the room, nonetheless we elected to stay and listen of what they could offer for potential club share members.

It was unforgiving using her celebrity status to lure concertgoers (if that was the case) in buying a club share. Concert should all be full of music and entertainment.

Dumb and Dumber

2008-04-18T15:27:00.006-04:00

When my friend/colleague introduced me two of his favorite reality-shows on CBS, I wasn’t enthusiastic about it at first. But I gave him a chance and did find myself hooked with these shows – Amazing Race and Survivors – since then I’ve never missed a single season. Even I’m away on vacation, I will ensure that I have time to watch those shows on the internet.

Last night’s “Survivor” was, to me at least, the best ever. I almost felt the show was scripted because the dialogue was perfect. When James talked about Jason and said, “I thought I was the dumbest Survivor ever.” Of course he was referring from last season when he got blindsided and got voted out because he didn’t play his immunity idol. The same mistake Ozzy made. Officially, James' no longer the dumbest!

Ozzy was dumbfounded that someone from his formed-alliance betrayed him. He evidently showed bitterness and dissapointment leaving the tribe while Eliza, who was sitting in the jury box, was totally shocked and could not believe it.

And Erik, he’s fun to watch. He’s so real. When he got all drunk at the reward feast, he threw up and joked about it. “I partied a little too hard, Micronesian-style.’ He realized that never mix betel (medicinal plant that found in South Asia for chewing) and beers.

I would love Jason to win though. I feel for him for being an outsider and being not part of any alliance. He tries to make friends and knows that his only way to survive and finish on top is to win every immunity challenge. Peih-Gee from last season had similar fate. She fought hard to stay but fell short of being on final three. Unfortunately, the women are playing the girl-power.

Weigh In

2008-04-09T12:37:00.001-04:00

A cell phone will soon be allowed in European flights (only for leading airlines). I cannot imagine myself sitting next to a passenger who will be talking on his/her cell phone through the duration of the flight. There’s always a chance that I may encounter an annoying arrogant inconsiderate passenger who will not stop talking to his/her spouse, friends or business partner on his/her cell phone. I hope this will not be implemented in the U.S. However, I think text messaging is acceptable as long as they silent their cell phone.

As the Olympic torch arrived yesterday in San Francisco, security was heightened because several protesters aimed to extinguish the flame to protest China’s human rights record. Torch bearers got in the midst of bloodshed and violent protest in Athens, London and Paris already. But I’m hoping Tibetans and supporters should also think twice if this kind of violent protest can resolve their purpose. I strongly support Tibetans independence and truly sympathize their perseverance and suffering under Chinese rule. Nevertheless, the Olympic spirit had nothing to do with the Chinese government treatment to Tibetans so let the Olympic torch burns.

Traveling

2008-04-06T09:25:00.003-04:00

Spring is in the year and so traveling season is already upon us. Lately I have been feeling uneasy to travel because of the airport delays, flight cancellations, overbooked flights and crowded skies not to mention soaring air fare. All these reasons can make me feel anxious to refrain from flying and it's not getting any better. For the last past few months, it’s been a miserable experience for most air travelers. During those times when you travel by air, the convenience and efficiency of flying was the highest priority in the airline industry. They assured everyone to get to their destinations on time with their luggage. Customer satisfaction was their number one concern. This time you are lucky if you don’t experience flight delays or your luggage won’t get lost. So this time I have planned to take the bus or the train to the north.

My friends and I are scheduled to take the bus to Boston, Massachusetts for a weekend in May. The Mega Bus Company has offered a one way ticket to Boston for only a buck for the month of May. Yes, that is not a typo. Though it is about five hours ride from NY, we thought it would be fun to do sightseeing as well on the way. In July, we also planned to take the train to Montreal, Canada to attend the International Jazz Festival which I haven’t done it since 1998. Ten years after I’m sure there will be new things and should be more fun. Also I get to see some of my old friends from Montreal.

I still love flying. Don’t get me wrong. It’s fast and convenient.

Honey's Lesson

2008-03-31T14:44:00.003-04:00

This weekend I was supposed to meet up fellow alumni from high school who were coming from a long drive from Chicago. I volunteered to be their tour guide and perhaps I could help them find a nice clean comfortable hotel room in the city that would fit to their budget. But those things didn’t matter after all because I waited for them to contact me through phone or e-mail. I learned that they ended up staying in the Newark airport area, approximately 15 miles to NYC. It would have been favorable for them if they had at least bothered me. I know people who know people. I network. In fact they were not even imposing since I agreed to assist them in the first place.

Though I was indisposed this weekend and because I promised that I would spare my weekend with them, I would surely meet them up. One thing about me is that when I promise something I always make sure to honor it. I will assure they will get what they ask for when I affirm. I always adhere to my words.

Later that Sunday I found out that they didn’t make any trouble to contact me because they were “nahihiya” and that I am seven years younger than them. I thought the concept of being in the alumni and being collectively part of such constituent, age is absolutely irrelevant. Whether you were on the top 10 or bottom 20 in the class should no longer be the issue. At this age, we should have outgrown that “hiya” trait. It will only mar us from getting success and wanting more in life.

And that reminds me of my good friend’s blog about “hiya”. She writes, “Shame is a huge obstacle to really getting the results we want in life.”

A Reason

2008-03-18T11:26:00.006-04:00

There’s always a reason for everything. Two weeks ago when I declined a job offer from another company because they wanted me to start in two weeks and I was not prepared to leave from my current job for another six weeks, there was a reason for saying “no”.

On Monday I was transferred to Actuary Department to tackle a new role as a Project Manager/Analyst. My previous experience as an Applications Manager and my financial background suit me well to this newly created position. It excites me because I will be able to utilize my business and analytical skills.

The Verdict
What if

St Paddy's Memories

2008-03-17T12:11:00.003-04:00

NYC celebrates St. Patrick Day on its 247th year marching up on Fifth Avenue and passing the St. Patrick Cathedral at 53rd Street. The parade starts off at 44th Street and ends at 86th Street.

Also, exactly four years ago was my townhouse’s blessing. Friends and relatives came for the blessing and brought food and drinks. I would not say it was potluck because I assigned them what kind of food they should bring - to avoid doubling - instead of bringing gifts that I might not like it or not suited to my taste for my townhouse in the Philippines.

Though it was in July when we begun to move to lower Manhattan, it was three years ago when my current company had announced that we were moving from midtown Manhattan. Our company was preparing to alter its status to for-profit so relocating to the Wall Street area would be an excellent notion to be visible amongst investors - so I just thought.

Dental 101

2008-03-13T22:13:00.004-04:00

I just got back from my dentist for the nth time and it will be another week of torture and agony of chewing solid food. I’ve already lost count of my visits when my dentist has begun to work on my teeth since November 2007. This is what happened when you don’t go to your dentist. They recommend to see them at least twice a year even they scare you out with all those things that they put and insert in your mouth. The last time I went for a dental work, it was ten years ago. Now I regret that I didn’t go that often as I could. I’m paying for neglecting my dental hygiene.

My upper gum has suffered 70% bone loss, so my dentist performed periodontal surgery on my upper left gum four weeks ago. Then tonight he did on the upper right gum. Next week I'll come back to remove the stiches and another weeks of healing process before I'll see him again.

He said, “It would take months before he completes the whole thing”. Fine by me. Thank goodness my dental plan covers 99.99% of all procedures.

I will see him again on Thursday.

Making into Top 12

2008-03-12T10:55:00.004-04:00

For the second time in a row, I was disappointed with Ramiele Malubay for not taking a risk of her song choice and lacking of confidence on last night’s Lennon-McCartney theme on the “American Idol”. She chose to sing “In My Life” while she pointed out it was dedicated to her close friend who just booted out last week. I would assume that was Danny Norriega. She broke down on camera after Ryan Seacreast announced Danny's departure.

Ramiele hasn’t been taking advantage of her big voice. As petite as she is, she can deliver vocal power but she seems holding it back singing like a bland karaoke-bot. All three judges have been advising her to take some risk and avoid “boring” songs if she wishes to win all the way. If she continues to sing safe songs, she may not fulfill her dream to be the first Asian-American Idol as she underscored on her past interviews.

She needs to learn from her competitors and listens to what the judges have to say. I know she can do better than that. I’m hoping she will pick songs that will rock the judges next time. Tonight she will be moving to the next round, though she was one of my bottom three performers last night.

Restaurant Show

2008-03-09T14:36:00.002-04:00

I live in a diverse city where every street or avenue has different flavors and flares that perk up my senses. I love to dine out and I am passionate about food.

When I travel to exotic countries, I make sure I sample every traditional dish they serve and sometimes unconventional. Because locals are the food critics of their own domain, I befriend with them. They like tourists who sincerely show appreciations of their food, language and culture. Once I earn their respect and they know that I am truthful to them they take me to what I called “off-beaten-path” of cheap restaurants or small kiosks where most tourists don’t have the chance to go.

Today is perfect to spend a day in Manhattan. Outside temperature is freezing with a single digit windchill factor, but inside you will warm up with delectable food and huge variety of pastries. Chefs, restaurant owners, and traders from all over the world come to assemble for the annual NY International Restaurant and Foodservice at Jacob Javits Center. This special event lasts until Tuesday, March 11th.

The annual gathering is catered to trade and business visitors only. My niece’s boyfriend’s sister is a manager of one of the five stars hotel in Manhattan so I got invited. I’m so lucky to be part of this exciting food show.

Is it on Sunday already?

2008-02-29T13:01:00.005-05:00

We are on the verge of recession but Bush adamantly expresses only about the slowing economic growth. If I have to interpret what Bush has voiced out, we are recession-bound; clobbered by housing slumps, credit crunch and weak dollar. And now we will have to feel the pinch once again with the fare hike. I expected the subway and bus fares would increase some time this year but I didn’t expect it too soon. There were signs and publicity all over the stations, buses and trains when it went up from the previous increase. This time I only found out this morning that the fare will go up on Sunday when I picked up a free publication of amNewYork – its headline “NEXT STOP: HIKE”.

The Verdict

2008-02-27T13:26:00.005-05:00

Just to update you of my decision about the job offer (see "What if"). After two days of deliberation with the recruiter and human resources personnel, I decided to decline the offer. There was only one issue that we didn't come to an agreement. They wanted me to start in two weeks, but I requested for at least six weeks. My argument seemed not reasonable for them because they needed a person right away. Though realistically, two weeks is a company standard. In any case, I have no regret for saying "no".

Only time will tell if I made the right decision.

What if?

2008-02-26T10:44:00.005-05:00

Today I have to make a decision that may change my career.

Yesterday I got a job offer from another company. I asked them to give me at least 24 hours to think over and sleep on it. I spoke to two of my trusted colleagues about the offer, as well as to a good friend from Manila (who happens to be in NY this week for her Bar exam) and to my sister. And this is the day that I must have a decision to tell other company that whether or not I accept the offer.

I weigh in everything I can – the benefits, the base salary, the work hours, etc. I’ve even come to writing it down all the pros and cons. Still I have no firm decision yet.

The hardest part is to say goodbye from people whom I’ve worked for almost 11 years. Those years that we’ve been working together, they have become my second family. In spite of some petty arguments in the staff meeting (which is understandable), we have managed to stay friends outside the office building. We’ve learned not to mix personal feelings and work. That is something I didn’t encounter from my two previous jobs.

I hope I will make the right thing. I don't want to end up asking myself someday, "What if?"

Simon says

2008-02-21T10:50:00.006-05:00

For the past weeks, flu has been ravaging workplaces across the nation and last night even the “Idol” girls were hit with the illness. While some of them were sapped by the sickness, there was no excuse and no sympathy from Simon. It seemed last night Simon was feeling sick himself. He was cranky most of the time.

Though my favorite that night, of course the 20-year-old Filipino/American from Florida. Ramiele Malubay is the little girl with a big voice that impressed the judges. “A voice to be reckoned with” says Paula, “very classy, almost like a pro” says Randy, and “tonight, you out sung every single person” says Simon.

I don’t know about you but I truly feel proud of her. She sang Dusty Springfield’s “You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me”. I had the first impression that she would sing that song, which popularized by Lani Misalucha in the Philippines, because on the “Idol” site Ramiele proudly says that Lani Misalucha and Regine Velasquez have influenced on her.

The fact that Ramiele Malubay is a better singer than Jasmine Trias (from the 3rd season), I hope you will vote her as much as you had voted Jasmine Trias. Let’s support and vote for Ramiele until the end.

Tuesday Night of Idol

2008-02-20T12:12:00.004-05:00

While the former first lady (NY Senator Hillary Clinton) suffered another bruising night Tuesday, losing the Wisconsin primary and the Hawaii caucus to Illinois Senator Barack Obama, I on the other hand watched the “American Idol” and excruciatingly listened to 17-year-old Danny Noriega’s version of “Jailhouse Rock”. He practically destroyed that song. Sadly, it was painful to watch him doing the Elvis’ move. I totally agreed with Simon Cowell as he described Danny’s performance was “verging on grotesque”.

On the positive side, 16-year-old Danny Archuleta (“Shop Around”), who I will be rooting for, has a bigger voice among the young contestants. He sings well and is so likable on the stage. Other guys who I believe stood out are Michael Johns (“Light My Fire”), David Cook (“So Happy Together”) and Jason Castro (“What a Day for a Daydream”). Last night it was the music of the 1960’s but these guys had perfectly carried out like contemporary pop songs.

Tonight it will be girls’ night. Watch out for Ramiele Malubay...

Dancing with the Stars Announced

2008-02-19T10:33:00.006-05:00

Since the first season of “Dancing with the Stars”, I’ve been a fan and glued to my TV every Monday night and Tuesday Results night. From an Oscar winner, to an Olympic gold medalist, to a Tennis Grand Slam champion, to the wife of the king, are among the new crop of celebrities who will fox-trot on “Dancing with the Stars” on March 17th. It will be its sixth season and with interesting line up and diversity of the cast, this season will be another blast to watch.

A Philippine radio disk jockey Patti of Jam88.3 once said “Those stars on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ have no career so they have plenty of time to waste.” Anyway, I love the show and who cares what people think and say about it. It’s a family show and entertaining. Unlike those trashy idiotic reality shows that come out during the summer or hiatus.

Things to do

2008-02-10T06:16:00.000-05:00

I never went to my high school prom night. If I did I have no recollection. If there was, it might have been a prom “day”? Until now I don’t recall wearing a prom suit (if that’s what they call it then) so I can’t tell if I had really gone to my prom night. There wasn’t even a single picture that I could show to myself that I actually went. They said that “high school prom” was the best memories they ever had. And here I am trying to reminisce nothing. If I were to list the things I’d like to do before I die, going to a prom would be my first on my list (or at least somewhere in the middle).

Traveling is always my passion, therefore, a journey to the elusive land of Vietnam and a visit to the highly restricted Island of Galapagos is must things to do. I wish to wander out the outskirt of Vietnam by taking the train from South to North (Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi). And I will get close with the endangered species on Galapalos Island.

I did a few extreme adventures in Costa Rica in 2001. It won't be so bad if I do something I've always wanted to do. Skydiving will be fun. It is quite thrilling and spine-tingling. I should add that on my list.

Lastly, to do a road trip in the Philippines and visit old churches built during the Spanish colony. That will be educational.

Chinese New Year

2008-02-07T10:17:00.001-05:00

Born in the Year of the Rat are claimed to be respected and considered a courageous, enterprising people. They believed to be clever and bright, sociable and family-minded. They have broad interests and strong ability in adapting to the environment and able to react adequately to any changes.

They are gifted in many ways and have an easy going manner. They are active and pleasant, tactful and fantastic, and are able to grasp opportunities. They seem to have interests in everything and hope to participate in doing it and usually do it very well.

Super Giant Tuesday

2008-02-05T10:48:00.000-05:00

I can’t get more Super than this and I’m thrilled.

Today my colleagues and I are sneaking out from work to watch the ticker-taped parade for the NY Giants for winning the Super Bowl XLII last Sunday in Glendale, Arizona; beating the almost perfect record New England Patriots 17-14. It will kick off at 11:00 a.m. at the Battery Park en route to the City Hall where they will have the ceremony.

Convenience is what we call it because our office building is only a few blocks from the City Hall and the Battery Park is just around the corner.

After work, I will be heading to the poll site in my neighborhood to vote for the Super Tuesday. Today is also the New York primary election. I will nominate who I think the best candidate for the U.S. President on the national election in November.

Super Sunday or Super Tuesday

2008-02-03T10:52:00.000-05:00

Super Tuesday is, almost the national election, the primary election for the U.S. presidential candidate. Republicans and democrats from eighteen states will vote for their respective presidential candidate. The winners of the primary election one will be chosen to be the next U.S. president this coming November. Economy, education and healthcare are my major concern in choosing the next president. And Iraq is only a small factor.

Super Sunday or known as the Super Bowl. For many of us it is a showdown between a playboy and a boy next door; Tom Brady versus Eli Manning. New England Patriots is looking for their fourth Super Bowl title while New York Giants is gearing up to stop the winning streak of the patriots. As Giants fans, this could be the most momentous day since their Super Bowl win in 1991.

New television commercials are also the main attraction of the Super Bowl for they are fun and entertaining. The average cost of a 30-second Super Bowl commercial is $2.7 million.

Go Red

2008-02-01T10:59:00.000-05:00

Many of us pay a little attention that February is American Heart month. It is an important month for us to keep hard-working muscle in good shape. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S. for both men and women. Today at work we join the awareness to fight against heart disease by wearing RED. Across the country already recognize the color red as representing the ability to all men and women to improve their heart health.

I'm still me

2008-01-29T10:57:00.000-05:00

My outlook in life change for the better, but I’m still me. I’ve faced all the failures and mistakes, but I’m still me. I’ve encountered triumphs and successes, but I’m still me.

I know I am responsible for all my actions, good or bad, right or wrong. All the words that come out of my mouth, harsh or sweet, correct or incorrect, I’m still me.

Whatever I say, do, think and feel these are real. They represent who I am. But when I look back and I sounded or did unfitting, I discard the unfitting and keep the fitting.

I know there are aspects about myself that puzzle my friends, but I’m still me. I have dreams, hopes, fears, and fantasies. I feel anger, joy, frustration, love, disappointment, and excitement. I’m still me and I will stay the same. I’m happy to be me.

Salamat Kaibigan

2008-01-27T04:46:00.002-05:00

On January 1, 2008 as the year began, we also kicked off our journey of good food and hospitality from the warmth dining room of the Lapus family to the cool breeze veranda of the Bagacina family.

Before we headed to Enrique and Noemi’s, Nelson and Zeny invited us for a quick nibble in their humble abode in Cainta. They served, which I considered, comfort food and great dessert. I tried not to eat that much to save space for the big meal at the Bagacina’s. And so I thought but failed. I sampled every food and dessert on the table. Because they were all very tasty and irresistible, obviously, I lost my table ethics and ate like a pig.
The winding road from Cainta to Antipolo gave me a little indigestion. I felt I was going to throw up in the van. But I kept my composure to avoid any delays. It was already late afternoon when we arrived in Bagacina’s. And I went straight down to the bathroom. It was false alarm.

Enrique and Noemi prepared us, rather Enrique said called in, plenty of traditional food. Too many they even let us took some on our way out.

I was also impressed with their passion for gardening. Their garden has a variety of beautiful flowers and the veranda is surrounded by such lovely tropical plants. It felt even more relaxing in a cool breezy afternoon sitting and sipping coffee with friends. It was a thankful day for the new year.

photos courtesy of Nelson.

28 Days

2008-01-26T06:39:00.001-05:00

This is a picture of segregation; a picture of big empty space in the middle; a picture that used to be collectively one group of friends. Because of my recklessness and insensitivity, I’ve created a division among us. Or I must say me against the group.

It would not be this way if I had not been so selfish and thoughtless of my actions and if I had not written and published a blog that would hurt my friends - unintentionally. I admit that I made a major mistake that affected my relationship with them. Although I know in my heart, I had no ill intentions nor directly hurt anyone's feeling in spite of the emphasis on my blog.

In my own defense the things I had written were not all negatives (as most of them say). Because they only focused on the negative aspects, they neglected to see the whole picture. The positive point of views were apparently discarded in their minds. Luckily I have still a few true great friends who understood and believed in me.

Just the same, I've caused everyone a pain in their heart. So I've come to do the right decision to remove the origial write up of the 28 Days page. I want to bury that incident. I wish to forget it had to happen. But I've already lost faith to the group.

To avoid another misunderstandings and conflicts, I made a harsh decision to leave the Yahoo! Group of Class of 1979. It is the only way I can think of to continue my blogging. If I'm not connected to the group I will have the freedom to blog, which is my main purpose of blogging.

photo courtesy of Nelson.

True Friends

2008-01-23T14:47:00.000-05:00

The hardest part is to say goodbye to your classmates/friends. These are the heartfelt parting words that they sent me through text messaging listed in order I received.

- - Bye friend. Salamat din. Have a safe trip. See you. u.

- - Same here! Many thanx also! See you around!

- - Till me meet again my friend and bro. Hope u wouldnt change. Thanks for everything.

- - We will mis u frnd ur laughter ur sadness in ur face d smell of ur breath bt most of all ur body language. Tnx 4 d tym n money u spend 4 us. Wag ka mkakalimot ha! Hapi trip! Sa muling pgki2ta. Saranghameda bo! God bless!

- - Thank you din, sa lhat ng tulong and wonderful happenings. May u always stay healthy…n . wealthy…(he he he) as u r. Asta la vista.

- - The joy that you gve to others is the joy that flows back to u. A happy heart makes a cheerful face. May ur stay be as happy as ur heart! c u again, bon voyage.

- - U too my fren..thnk u so much for giving us ur time & hope wil see each other again..khit super big time kna wag ka makaka limot sa amin…..thnk u & my god bles u & ur family always…have a nice trip…will be missing u..

- - Nag enjoy din talaga kmi. Sa na maulit muli. Sori we’re not able to join last night. Ingat ka & happy trip! Keep in touch ha?

- - 4me, no thanks yet, ds s jz d beginning…Our time has not lapse yet…Friendship 4me s lifetime, its jz a matter of communication & understanding 2 1 another…Take care always…Bye 4 now…God’s will, we’l c each other again…Von voyage!

- - Glad you enjoyed ur vacation u deserve the best. God bless your trip home. Have a good rest tonight. We will miss you Bff. Thanks very much!

- - Dont say thanks instead God bless u coz i know that u are truly blessed wd ur kind heart. I knw we seldom talk thru email or text but our friendship stays d same i cant forget d first time we talk remember? At first im hesitant wd d grp til now i come to knw whos really is true to u, haay nagdrama ang lola mo. Friendship tampo ako! Did you likd b my gift? Tama na ang pang drama mo dyan 10mos lang un mbilis u never knw pabalik ka na naman, von voyage im just a text away hehe...

2007 Christmas Party

2008-01-23T12:22:00.002-05:00

The class of 1979 Christmas Party was held in Barangay Bagumbuhay Hall in Project 4, Q.C. on December 29, 2007. Dancing the Paper Dance Contest is with Rosario. We won with an exciting prize.

Advise from an expert, you cannot win a contest if you are both shy (Enrique and Jojo).

There's nothing to hide between these two (Lorna and Raul). They also won the egg contest (with obvious advantage).

Harvin is trying to fresh with Noemi?

Husband and wife team, Zeny and Nelson didn't take this opportunity to win. They both lost egg and paper dance contests. Too much public hugging can be bad for the contest?

Get ready, get set, go!

Hey wait a second, I need to adjust my pants. They're falling off.

Is this the right steps for cha-cha? Or are we dancing the Argentinian Tango? What the heck, I'll dance anyway I want.

I been on a diet for awhile so I should not be heavy.

photos courtesy of Joy and Nelson.

Tagaytay City

2008-01-23T11:41:00.002-05:00

Tagaytay City tripping on January 12, 2008 (don't mind the date on the photo because that was an error) with high school friends from L-R (seating) Sophia, Brenda, Vangie; L-R (standing) Nelson, Zeny, me, Raul

In Taal View Heights with friends are L-R (seating) me, Vangie, Sophia; L-R (standing) Zeny, Nelson, Raul, Brenda

With friends and family in a model house. (Note: I'm staring at the chocolates lying under the center table.)

photos courtesy of Nelson.

Sports and St'roid

2007-12-15T10:25:00.000-05:00

As a Met fan, it is appalling to learn the use of steroids or human growth hormones in the Major League Baseball among players; Mitchell’s report has named 15 NY Yankees and 12 NY Mets involved in this scandal. It deems that work ethics are no longer the priority of these players rather to hit as many home runs as they can with the help of drug enhancement so they can negotiate more money and get paid millions of dollars. By deceiving the fans, they jeopardize the integrity of the game. To top that they don’t seem to care the negative effect of the drug that can lead to liver cancer or depression. Not to mention they are giving a bad example to the young future athletes.

Tennis anyone? Former number one tennis player had decided to retire rather to face and clear her name when Women’s Tennis Association accused her of allegedly using cocaine during the game.

An Olympic sprinter had given up her gold medals to the IOC after she admitted of using steroids. So this maybe a part of every sport event.

Holiday on Flight

2007-12-11T15:15:00.000-05:00

Without a doubt holiday season brings great joy, likewise it has the ability to cause stress and frustration; frantic shopping trips, hectic work deadlines, holiday traffic, and winter weather to name a few. Though it brings you happiness, at the same time can be a source of profound anxiety. For holiday travelers, even more pressure is added.

I have two weekend left to do all my Christmas shopping for my three nieces and two younger brothers; which my two older sisters and I had agreed upon not to exchange gifts that we should just focus on our nieces, brothers, and of course our mum. And a week from Monday I’ll be flying out and spending my holiday on flight to the Philippines.

A New Beginning

2007-12-10T15:19:00.000-05:00

The JPLSHS alumni North East-USA chapter had come together for their first Christmas get-together on December 8, 2007 at Casa Victoria in Jersey City, New Jersey. Fortunately, we have Nessie to put this event together – calling and sending e-mails to everyone who lives in NY-NJ-PA-CT to join in. We expect that this group will expand as time goes by.

L-R (seated) Miriam Bobis-Rubiano '75, Hortencia "Baby" Allas-Alfonso '75
L-R (standing) Cornelio "Neil" Mojica '70, Ofelia "Ella" Liwanag '72, Marcelina "Macy" Isip-Ong '74, Carlo Cabalbag '79, Nesita "Nessie" Papa '73, Jorge Allas '76

L-R: Rowena "Weng" Yaptangco '73 (seated), Jorge Allas '76, Carlo Cabalbag '79, Nessie Papa '73, Miriam Bobis-Rubiano '75, Hortencia Allas-Alfonso '75

Marcelina "Macy" Isip-Ong '74, Ofelia "Ella" Liwanag '72, Carlo M. Cabalbag '79, and Rene Alfonso, husband of Hortencia "Baby" Allas, '75

First Snow

2007-12-03T11:45:00.001-05:00

On Sunday NYC had its first snow of the year, as the midwest blanketed with snow and major airports closed and delayed. Some part of the northeast had spared from snow storm. NYC accumulated 2 to 3 inches.

Lights On!

2007-11-29T14:54:00.001-05:00

After 19 days, curtains are finally up. Theatre owners and producers have come to a tentative terms with the stagehands union to open Broadways shows starting tonight. As Broadway comes back to life, the 84-foot Norway spruce Christmas tree at the Rockefeller Center with more than 300 lights has been lit for the holiday.

Broadway Dims Lights

2007-11-26T12:56:00.000-05:00

One of my friends from college is supposed to drive down from upstate to watch “The Phantom of the Opera” on Broadway with his teenage daughter this weekend. He and I have planned to meet up before the evening performance this Saturday. Haplessly, he has to cancel the trip because stagehands went on strike - they have been picketing outside the theatres for weeks now. Most Broadway shows were cancelled. Although unused tickets were subject for exchanges and refunds, the saddest part is that Broadway has been in the dark on this approaching holiday. It has impacted big and small businesses losing $2 million a day.

The major dispute is a set of new work rules for stagehands involving the number of people to be hired for setting up a particular show and for how long, as well as what duties they perform. If I think about it this is incomprehensible. Shouldn’t be the producers or theatre owners decide how many people to be hired? Also, they have to pay for long stretches of idle time if stagehands decide how long they will be working.

I wish they could settle this dispute for the sake of the holidays.

JPLSHS - Foundation Day

2007-11-21T14:09:00.001-05:00

This following testimonial speech was addressed to the young students, faculty staff, and alumni of the Jose P. Laurel Sr. High School in Project 4, Quezon City on March 9, 2007; it’s 39th Foundation Day.

I would like to address myself to the ocean of young men and women before me right now. But you, young people, I would like you to benefit from my experience. And as I relate to you my experience, a slice of my life, I will be telling you a thing or two—for your benefit, I hope.

When I moved to the United States in the early 1980, I enrolled in Pace University in Manhattan, New York. In the United States, especially, it pays to be a college graduate. You more than double your job opportunities when you are a college graduate—and as a rule, you also more than double your paycheck.

Because I was a college graduate, and because I continued learning new things—especially computer technology—I lived well, I lived comfortably, and yearly I vacationed in many places in the world, like Mexico, Israel, Argentina, Costa Rica, Yugoslavia……

On top of all that, I managed to send to medical school a younger brother of mine, who, I'm happy to report, passed the recent medical board exam, and is now a full-fledged physician. He stays in an exclusive and upscale townhouse that I have bought, costing millions of pesos.

I'm telling you these not to brag to you, but to testify to you that a graduate of Jose P. Laurel Sr. High School can make something of himself—provided he perseveres and he does well in school.

And that brings me to my first point, POINT NO. 1 is: STRIVE TO GRADUATE FROM COLLEGE. Kahit mahirapan kayo, pagsumikapan niyo na makapagtapos ng kolehiyo. If lack of money should force you to enroll in a vocational course, just the same enroll in a college course when you are already employed—be a working student if you must. Betteryet, while you're in college, set your sights on graduate education. Obtain a master's degree, or even a doctorate degree. I did matriculate in a graduate school, and earned my MBA in Finance at New York University.

When I set foot in New York, I made full use of my knowledge of, or facility in, the English language. Most probably you think everybody in the U.S. speaks or writes good English. That's not true at all. There are many Americans whose grammar is nonexistent and whose spelling is atrocious. And you should see their penmanship—many of them write in big clumsy letters like you did in grade one! Besides there are many immigrants in the U.S. who can only speak their native language, especially the Latinos—they can only speak Spanish.

Because I could speak English well enough—thanks to all my insistent and patient English teachers here in Jose P. Laurel —I enjoyed a big advantage over a number of other immigrants like me, in fact even over some Americans themselves.

And so I come to Point No. 2: DEVELOP A MASTERY OF THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE. You need not attain a level of English competence that will qualify you to be a professor of English. Just continue learning more and more words each day, not necessarily by reading a dictionary from cover to cover, but simply by reading. The more you read, the more you absorb correct grammar, and the more your English becomes notonly correct, but also idiomatic. Of course, nothing beats painstakingly agonizing through a hard-core grammar book.

English is now the universal language. No other language can come close to it in terms of universal usefulness—especially now that the Internet is upon us. How would you like to get employed right after graduating from Laurel, and earn double what your hardworkingteachers here get? That's perfectly possible, if only you knew your English well enough. Call centers will literally be knocking at your doors begging you to work for them.

But there is one thing I would like to underscore, though: I think every cell phone sold in the market should carry a sign that says, TEXTING IS DANGEROUS TO YOUR ENGLISH. I must admit that my spelling deteriorates the more I send or receive text messages. We Filipinos are a very clever people when it comes to contriving ways to shorten the spelling of any word.

When I was new in New York, I tended to dislike certain people simply on account of the color of their skin. I tended to discriminate. Fortunately for me, I live in a city where you are bound to mingle with all sorts of people. You encounter Hassidic Jews with their longbeards and black robes, members of the Hare Krishna religion who dance on the streets in their tangerine gowns while singing to the accompaniment of cymbals. You meet punk-rock people, you run into Neo- Nazis, transvestites, Wall Street executives—and yes, occasionally you overhear a strange group chattering in Ilocano. There is an Italian village in New York, a Chinatown, a German town. There are Latinos who come from places like Uruguay, Paraguay, San Salvador, Puerto Rico, Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries. And when you live amidst a variety of cultures, your tendency to discriminate gets eroded.

The third Point I want to make is: PRACTICE TOLERANCE AND AVOID DISCRIMINATION. I say this because there is I think a growing problem worldwide between Muslims and Christians—and we are a Christian country with a growing Muslimpopulation.I hope you don't fall into the error of concluding that because a few Muslims have turned into suicide bombers, that therefore all Muslims are prone to violence. More than 99% of Muslims in our country, I believe, are peace-loving people. The Abu Sayafs are Muslims, but the Muslims are not the Abu Sayafs—PLEASE KEEP THAT IN MIND.

Also, please bear in mind that in line with globalization, we will see more and more Koreans, Japanese, Taiwanese, and of course Chinese moving into our beautiful country and living among us. As our country becomes a melting pot, we will do well to be open to other ways of dressing, or eating, or worshipping. Instead of discriminating, start learning to eat kimchi, sushi, shawarma, and other delicacies.

In the United States, the rule is that everybody pays their taxes—their income taxes especially. And that's because a big number of those who cheat on their taxes get heavily fined or even jailed. In much of the United States, you observe speed limits, you don'tattempt to beat the red light, you actually come to a full stop and not just slow down if the road sign says Full Stop. Because the Americans appreciate the value of actually enforcing the laws, they are more law-abiding than we Filipinos are.

The change I want to see, whenever I visit our beautiful country, is that Filipinos are becoming more and more law-abiding, because the authorities enforce the law more and more regularly. May kasabihan tayo na mahirap nang turuan ang matandang kabayo. And so I now pin my hopes on you, young people.

For starters I want you to observe this, which is Point No. 4: DON'T EVER MESS WITH THE LAW. You mess with the law when you use prohibited drugs, when you purchase a fake diploma in Recto, when you buy a stolen cell phone, or worse, when you steal a cell phone. You mess with the law when you spray-paint your neighbor's gate in the middle of the night, when you undergo or undertake hazing after joining a fraternity, when you keep a paltik gun, or when you cheat during board exams.

In acts big or small, be law-abiding. In the more than 20 years that I've been living in the States, I am proud to say I have never broken any law there. In that respect at least, I did not cause the image of the Filipino to be stained. If at all, I only had sinned against chastity—but you're too young for that kind of talk.

The last point I would like to make is this: REMEMBER TO BE GRATEFUL. Should you migrate to some other country like I did, remember to look back to your family, your province or city, and your country. Remember Jose P. Laurel Sr. High School, and think of what you can do for it.

I am grateful that I had been allowed to have a chat with you for a few minutes. I am grateful that I could meet a number of my former classmates and teachers on this day. I am grateful that although I am now a U.S. citizen, I have this beloved country of mine to come to whenever I find life in America too stressful—or bitingly cold, as itis right now.

And so, to you lovely young people, let me say again the five points I wanted to impart: FINISH COLLEGE, MASTER YOUR ENGLISH, BE TOLERANT OF OTHERS, DO NOT MESS WITH THE LAW, and REMEMBER TO BE GRATEFUL.

THANK YOU, AND I HOPE YOU WILL ALL BE SO SUCCESSFUL YOU WON'T FIND IT NECESSARY TO LEAVE THIS LOVELY COUNTRY OF OURS.

Thank you very much and I'm proud to be class of 1979.

Kuma Inn

2007-11-15T12:12:00.000-05:00

Though we had a hard time to locate the street and practically prowled the area, it was worth a trip. We found Kuma Inn that is tucked away in a small renovated apartment on the second floor in a lower east side tenement building. Once we got up those stairs, I feel as though I stepped into an oasis of warmth; a small and cozy tapas-style restaurant. The setting is great for chatting with friends or a casual date. The interior décor flares with Japanese lights mounted on the walls with exotic Philippine handicrafts placed in the receiving area.

The chef/owner's mother is a Filipino and his father is a Thai that explains the blend of Philippine and Thai dishes. A tapas-style – Spanish influenced in the Philippines - is expected to be small servings so we ordered more than one small plate of tasty morsels to share. A bottle of sake sufficed our close to a perfect restaurant experience. But I particularly enjoyed drinking the water from young coconut and I asked the waiter to split it for me to scoop out the flesh. The service is young and energetic, unpretentious, and zero attitudes. An affable service continued throughout the dinner.

http://www.kumainn.com

My Best Friend Forever

2007-11-05T10:58:00.001-05:00

I called my long time best friend in the Philippines (she even reminded me through her recent e-mail that we've been friends for almost three decades). Though we only spoke 45 minutes on the phone (and I felt not enough), she said it was alright because we had quality time. Nonetheless, I was disappointed in myself to cut short of our insightful conversations. My phone card only allowed me to talk 45 minutes and it had to end our interactions. When she thanked me for my time, I thanked her even more.

She and I have rich common bond that nobody can break us apart. Through the years that we've been friends (since high school), just like any other relationships, we have ups and downs. We have some petty arguments but we always manage to keep our differences set aside. Mutual respect and understanding keeps our friendships even stronger and healthier.

Happy Halloween

2007-10-31T09:52:00.001-04:00

A tradition since 1973, New York’s Village Halloween Parade is believed to be the largest Halloween celebration in the world that features puppets, marching bands, as well as limited numbers of floats. It is the only night time parade in NYC; starts at 7 p.m. and lasts until 10 p.m. It is a fun and unique way to celebrate Halloween. The best part is that anyone can participate in the parade – arrive at the beginning of the parade between 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. and join in. It kicks off on Sixth Avenue at Spring Street, and continues north along Sixth Avenue to 23rd Street.

Humor

2007-10-22T22:53:00.000-04:00

If you are trying to be funny and no one seems laughing, that is embarrassing. Either your friends don’t appreciate your sense of humor or they just merely no sense of humor. How long you’ve known your friends? Is it long enough to find you funny and those things you’ve had said or done should not be taken personal? Obviously, they don’t know you well enough. But if your friends find it hard to accept your humor then that’s become a problem with your relationships. Every time you pull out a joke it will offend them.

Happy Birthday

2007-10-19T13:23:00.000-04:00

Max Crumm who plays Danny in Grease on Broadway signs authograph on my playbill.

Capitalism

2007-10-15T13:17:00.000-04:00

It was crisp, cool, and lots of sunshine on Sunday. It was perfect to walk the dog in the park and let it frolic with other dogs. I don’t have a pet so I called my friends if they wanted to hook up in Manhattan for a Sunday brunch and an afternoon stroll at Bleecker Street towards West Village. Better than dogs, I don’t need them to leash and clean up their poops. That’s a bad analogy.

As we walked towards to the Village, I noticed that Bleecker has changing and joining fast with the trend of capitalism. Only last month there were only a few high-end retailers. Now it has flooded with upscale clothing stores and merchants. They are rubbing off the image of the Village that I had known for years. The appeal of the Village that was built up by a Bohemian crowd, through music venues, art and culture has slowly diminished. This poor artist community has lost its spell. Eventually these young Bohemians will be replaced by young investment bankers. Sadly enough, Bleecker will become just another homogenous city street.

Birthdays Celebration

2007-10-14T22:56:00.000-04:00

The cake was from the three lovely ladies: Sofia Purification-Requejo, Jojo Villaruz-Sy, and Joy Monsalud-Estioko.

The celebrants from L-R: Nelson Lapus, Brenda Rosario-Sanchez, Lorna Reyes-Sabino, Jocelyn Camota-Basilio, Antonio Grafil (standing behind Osie), Enrique Bagacina, Marcelo Reyes. Not in picture: Carlo Cabalbag

These were the bagets of the 1970's. Are we the sex-revolution generation?

The guests...friends, classmates, schoolmates.

Oktoberfest

2007-10-08T15:41:00.000-04:00

Cheers! Or as they say in Deutschland – prost!

If you can’t make it to Munich, not to worry, NY brings Oktoberfest in the city. Oktoberfest is one of those holidays that you don’t need to buy gifts, to prepare complicated foods, and to attend services. For some of us, it is the simplest and easiest way to celebrate. The only obligation is to attend the party and make sure you have plenty of room in your stomach.

On Sunday (10/7), on the east side of Midtown Manhattan, along Lexington Avenue, I felt giddy and tipsy to be part of this massive outdoor celebration for the third time. Though I’m not a beer drinker neither (obviously) German, it didn’t stop me to revel in German’s “drink-up-the-culture”. But my friends indulged their beer-loving selves. Not a single second that I’d seen their glass empty. As they filled their stomach with beer, I was preoccupied with the side orders - - soft pretzels, homemade pickles, Wiener schnitzel, and Kobe Beef bratwurst. That raised a red flag after I sampled all the edible side orders. The Y Hotel has never been convenient.

Oktoberfest Street Fair on Lexington Avenue celebrates the way they do in Munich. It is a family-friendly event that features arts-and-crafts vendors, live German music and traditional dancing.

And I found important information from a beer expert, which I incline to share (even if you don’t agree). He said, “If you want to enjoy Oktoberfest without hitting the bar, these are my holiday favorites that are available at many grocery stores. (1) Sam Adams – slightly sweet and amber malt is surprisingly heavy (2) Brooklyn – light, bitter, smooth, and very authentic (3) Beck’s – dry, sharp flavor with a light easy-to-drink head.”

For me, honestly, I cannot tell the difference. They’re all taste bitter to me. In any case, do you think San Miguel beer can compete with the best of Oktoberfest?