VIA Times – August 2014 Issue Vital News, Vibrant Views for Asian Americans in Chicago & Midwest
By: Elsie Sy-Niebar
*Rose Tibayan, ‘Mrs. Philippines International’ writes about her (must-read) ‘wonderful experience’ competing with 64 other lovely ladies from all over the world, vying for the “Mrs. International” crown
*A daughter writes a heartwarming tribute to her beloved Mom, the late Melinda Ignacio Lising
*How deadly is Ebola? The latest viruskiller?
*Ten-Gun salute to Evelyn Tolledo, for her Outstanding Leadership in the Bikol National Convention last month!
*Join AFIRE and ADOBOFEST on Sept. 17 for Empowerment!
*Why did PIWC chair Anita Rosa skip Edna Pavel in the awarding of plaques?
Rose Tibayan, One of our very own Beauty and Brains, a talented Filipina journalist who is the current “Mrs. Philippines International,” shares with Via Times’readers her Beautiful Life Experience being with 64 Beautiful Women from all over the world vying for the “Mrs. International Crown 2014”! Immediately following her “Sampaguita Ball ” last June 27, organized by former “Mrs. Philippines” Ting Joven, featuring some of Chicago’s Beauty Crown holders, Rose flew to Jacksonville, Florida to join the “Mrs. International” Beauty pageant last July 26-27. Here’s Rose’s must-read experience for ladies or anyone participating in a mainstream contest. “My Experience on the International Pageant Stage” By Rose Tibayan, “Mrs. Philippines International 2014” “People often wonder why women join pageants. On the surface, pageants seem superficial and ridiculous ― what with their crowns, sashes, and blinged clothing? However, those who have never participated in a competitive pageant will never know the experiences, ideas, fun, plethora of new people, and motivation for self-improvement that a pageant brings into your life. Pageant women have a mindset that they compete against themselves ― and not against each other. It’s the judges who compare us. We are mentally disciplined, beforehand, to just do our best. My experience with “Mrs. International” pageant was nothing short of wonderful! I was impressed by the fact that our national executive director, Mary Richardson, knew all our names. And, there were 65 of us! The most satisfying part, for me, was the chance to educate people about the reversible dementia ― Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus ― which afflicted my father (the late Manny Tibayan) and to hear about the work the other contestants were doing for their own charities. Like true sisters, we encouraged and helped each other the entire week, and through the two days of preliminary and final competitions. We lent our shoes to those who couldn’t find theirs, offered jewelry to those who needed better earrings, and borrowed each others’ safety pins, sewing kits, and clothing steamers. Some women even took 15-20 minutes from their own prep time to help others steam their gowns. Backstage, there were encouraging words of advice. There was so much genuine camaraderie among the contestants because we knew that we each possessed our own good qualities. Pageants are often derided for the stereotype that they attract superficial and self-absorbed people. And, reality shows such as “Game of Crowns,” often support this stereotype. While, I can’t say that a few may have those characteristics, we all know that superficial and self-absorbed people exist everywhere, and not just on the pageant stage. (They can be found in the corporate world, professional sports, entertainment, arts, law, and academia, just to name a few sectors.) What I can say is that the majority of women involved in pageantry do possess an enormous amount of self-confidence, enjoy competition (in various aspects of their lives such as sports and academics), and relish the “girls only” camaraderie with a group of women. It would be similar to a bunch of guys leaving for a week on a “guys only” trip to compete in rounds of golf. For many women, a pageant week is a time to steal a few days just for themselves ― without the responsibilities of the job, family, or school. They get to hang around with other women, wear beautiful clothing for a couple of days, and reassert their individuality, which many women often sacrifice after they get married, have children, or commit to a significant other. Pageantry is a lot of fun, but it’s only for the brave! Are you averse to people criticizing you? If so, then, nope, pageants are not for you… because someone will always say something. One needs a large stash of courage in order to put themselves “out there” in front of haters, and to be comfortable with the fact that only ONE person will get to bring the sparkly tiara home. The true prize is what we learn about ourselves, and the positive changes brought on by the pageant preparation, such as exercising, eating better, and getting fit! After the pageant, we assess our efforts. If you tried your best you will be satisfied, and proud of what you have experienced. While there are metrics within the system, judges are human beings with subjective reactions to each girl they meet. Having said that, I believe that this year’s winner, Maggi Thorne, is very deserving! When it’s all done, we leave with memories of a truly fun and rewarding journey uniquely experienced by only a few.” (Rose Tibayan). Rose got the highest Internet (4000) Votes which was officially announced at the pageant. As a professional Ivy League journalism graduate, Rose worked as a reporter for national televisions before she decided to be on her own as a digital journalist. She is married to Atty. Don Villar, producer at WLS ABCTV Channel 7 in Chicago.
REMEMBERING MY BEST FRIEND, the late MELINDA IGNACIO LISING…
Among my “Piles” in my Kitchen/Office, a small “Thank You” envelope popped up. It caught my attention. The sender was Melinda Lising. My heart beat so fast, as tears slowly flooded my eyes. Melinda, the sweet younger sister of my family physician, Dr. Elenita Rubio. Melinda was the manager of RIIS PARK Medical Center owned by the Rubios. The patients will never forget her sweet smile and cordial greetings. Melinda was a Mom who loved to talk about her only daughter, Jannell. The“Thank You” note she sent me was dated March 2, 2012. In her handwriting, Melinda wrote: “Thank you for all the prayer offerings. I give thanks to GOD for everyday blessings and appreciate family and friends who alleviate my worry and give me strength to accept this trial. I still have to undergo two chemotherapy sessions and hopefully to restore my health again after that. Sincerely, Melinda and Jannell.” At that time, Melinda was undergoing chemotherapy for her ovarian cancer, an unexpected illness which shocked her loving family and friends, like me. Much more her sister: Dr. Elenita Ignacio Rubio. While she was confined at home, I often called to tell her she was in my prayers and in our Church Prayers. At times I prayed with her over the phone. She sounded very hopeful. Until September 3, 2013, when God called her to “Come Home” to end her physical pains. I was in the Philippines. I felt bad not being able to say my last goodbye to Melinda. Time gone does not really matter to give a Tribute to a great human being like my Good Friend Melinda. Who could be the best person to talk to but her loving, only daughter, Jannell, the Apple of A Ten-Gun Salute to Evelyn Tolledo, President of Bikol USA of the Midwest, for her Most Outstanding Leadership in hosting the BIKOL NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA, INC., 34th National Convention in Chicago, last July 25 to 27. Seldom we hear about “overflowing guests”except at this convention. More of this event next VT issue. This photo shows Evelyn, “the Junior Pilita,” performing with the great Philippine Diva Pilita Corrales few months ago in Chicago.(ESN). Melinda’s heart, who is working hard to become a doctor. So, I asked Jannell to write a Tribute to her Mom. Here’s Jannel, speaking deep from her heart: “ My late Mom, Melinda Ignacio Lising excelled in everything. She was a Woman, Wife, Friend, Sister, Aunt, and a Great Mother! Even though I am an only child, she always told me that my cousins are like my brothers and sisters. It made me so proud to see how much they really loved and cared for her especially during these past few difficult years while she was suffering from cancer. As my Mom, I truly cannot be more proud of her. My Mom was my best friend; a listener to all my joys and problems. She was there to cheer me at my soccer and tennis games, piano recitals, and school competitions, and she would argue with me, taught me the importance of being able to apologize and admit when I am wrong. Since I was little. she always emphasized to me the importance of good education and the drive to achieve my goals no matter what obstacles are on the way. She always gave me what I needed, but I had to use the money I earned to get the things I wanted. This taught me the value of working hard and to be able to take pride in the things I earned. She knew exactly how much freedom to allow me growing up so that I could establish a feeling of independence. As I became an adult, my Mom trusted me to make the right decisions for myself, but she was always someone I could turn to whenever I needed advice. She made it a tradition to go on mother/daughter outings and vacations. While away at medical school in the Philippines, she sent me boxes from home filled with comfort food and supplies and always left at least two or three voicemails on my phone every other day to check up on me. She sacrificed her time, money, and being close to me, just so that I could go to the Philippines to achieve my life-long goal of becoming a doctor. As a woman, she was the strongest woman I have ever known. She was an extremely hard worker and knew the value of hard-earned money. She was always elegant, poised, and well-mannered. She knew when to stand up for herself. . She battled ovarian cancer for two years even when all seemed hopeless. Mom grew stronger in her faith to God. She never once questioned His plan for her. As a wife, she made any place we moved in Our Home. She loved going on family trips. Our house was always stocked with delicious home cooked meals and a place for people to gather for any occasion. She always made sure that I knew the importance of a family unit; assured me I was loved and cared for by two loving parents. As a sister, I remember her spending a lot of her time on the phone talking about anything and everything with her siblings, whether they were in the same state or across the world. Nicknamed “Baby,” my Mom was always there for her brothers and sisters, loving them and giving them support in any way she could. As an aunt, she helped take care of my cousins as if they were her own children. A master at remembering everyone’s birthdays, she was always available to listen and offer advice. I would not be where I am today nor would I be the person I am now if it wasn’t for my Mom. I owe the world to her and I will never forget what she taught me and how much she loved me. She will always be there to love and watch over me until we meet again… in a world without pain.(By Jannel Lising) Very touching, indeed.
Why was EDNA PAVEL, LEFT OUT IN THE PIWC AWARDS???
EDNA PAVEL, PWIC 2014 “Official Photographer” left the appreciation night last July 11, empty-handed of a Plaque of Appreciation given to all committee chairs. “Why did PIWC 2014 Madam Chair Anita Rosa single out Edna Pavel as the NO-PLAQUEAPPRECIATION RECIPIENT?” This was the question asked by almost everyone who were having fun receiving and showing off the new-style plaque created by Plaque Committee co-chairs, LINDY TAN and CHAZ PATRON. Lourdes Livas, hardworking chairperson of the BEAUTY QUEEN Committee (who invited me) felt unhappy for Edna. She told me, “Edna worked very hard specially on the Beauty Queen souvenir program. We always met at the printer’s office when I checked on the souvenir program. She did a lot of work proofreading the bios and spelling of the names of the beauty queens. She was running back and forth for their pictures. Kawawa naman si Edna (I feel sorry for Edna),” Lourdes said. When I got home, my phone was jumping off the hook. I emailed Lindy, PIWC award chair. asked him why Edna Pavel was left out in the cold at the Appreciation wingding. Lindy’s immediate response, in toto: “Hi Tita Elsie … Tita Anita, my co-Chair Daisy “Chaz” Patron and myself had the meeting to discuss the appreciation nite and the list to go over the working committees who will get the appreciation award. As a chairman, I went over the list with Tita Anita and I specify each one with the names. Tita Anita just decided to give free dinner to Edna so I simply comply what she instructed. And no award. So me, I’m just doing what she told me and my co-chair to do just that. It is not my decision to give the final word, Tita Anita has the final say. And that’s is all. Please feel free to communicate with Anita” Twice I called Edna Pavel followed by two emails to get her side of the story. I also emailed Anita Rosa, the PIWC Boss to get her side. Up to press time MUM is the word from these two women. So, who cares if they themselves, don’t care? A No-Nonesense Lady who possesses a telescopic and telephatic vision of the games that kings and queens and clowns in our community play, snapped at me saying: “Don’t waste your time getting ‘justice’ for Edna Pavel! Stop kidding yourself. You think people care? Save your time and your VT column space.” “OKAY, OKAY, you’re right,” I snapped back. End of Da Edna Pavel/ Anita Rosa soap opera.
Good news from one PIWC 2014 insider: “We netted good proceeds.”
Great. I hope these monies from the hard work of their Beauty Queens, specially “Mrs. Philippines PIWC” YOLY ZOLETA who invited 200+ guests, will be donated to deserving charities. The PIWC should thank Lourdes Livas and Leticia Freihaut, co-chairs of the Beauty Queen Committee, for their dedication. “I messed up some of my personal businesses; I was too busy following up the details concerning the Beauty Queens. I’m so glad it is over! I deserve a break,” says Lourdes. At the Appreciation Night, when Anita Rosa presented all the Beauty Queens and thanked them, some guests (including this writer,) were kind of appalled when Madam Chair did not say a word of thanks or appreciation – should come as second nature –of the hard work of the Beauty Queen committee cochairs, Lourdes and Leticia, who were seated right there under her nose. Oh, well. The Party is over. Good luck to the incoming PIWC 2015 Executive Chair Ellen Tan. And to Leticia Freihaut, Chair of the Beauty Queen Committee with Leilani Magbanua as her cochair.
HOW MUCH DO WE KNOW ABOUT EBOLA VIRUS? HOW DEADLY IS IT?
This report was based on the latest report of the United Nation Health Agency which says that the latest Ebola outbreak is the largest and longest ever recorded for the disease. It has killed at least 961 people. It started in Guinea in March and has since spread to Sierra Leone, Liberia and Nigeria. An American doctor, Dr. Kent Brantly, on a medical mission to these areas has returned to the United States for treatment of the Ebola virus at the Emory University Hospital in Atlanta. Nancy Writebol, another lady medic, at this writing, is expected to land on American soil, to be treated at the Georgia medical center. In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has already warned Americans against traveling to West Africa due to the Ebola outbreak. The agency also put U.S. hospitals on alert for symptoms so they can spot potential cases.
WILL THE CURRENT OUTBREAK SPREAD TO THE UNITED STATES?
No. Even if an infected individual were to come to the U.S. carrying the virus (as has happened several times in the past), it is unlikely to spread within the U.S. Because the virus is not transmitted through the air, standard isolation and contact-tracing procedures would quickly bring it under control. The challenges in controlling the outbreak in West Africa relate to the difficulty in executing these procedures effect. Read and watch more about Ebola in the news.
Chicago AFIRE or the Alliance of Filipinos for Immigrant Rights and Empowerment,
in cooperation with the Filipino American Network (FAN), will hold its 5K Walk fundraiser at LaBagh Woods and its 3rd Annual Art of Eating Balut Contest during the September 27th Adobofest celebration. “The goal of this Walk around the woods is to raise awareness of physical activity as a part of one’s overall health condition. We are expanding the meaning of ‘Rock the Balut!’ slogan to promote health as well as civic participation through citizenship, voter registration, and voting,” says Jerry Clarito, AFIRE executive. The proceeds of the fundraiser will help support AFIRE’s citizenship, immigration, and health education services provided to the community. “The Rock the Balut! Walk, powered by FrogHops will begin at 8:30-9 am with Zumba dance exercise. Participants are asked to donate a $20 registration fee for a free t-shirt. After the walk, participants will join the Adobofest celebration at 11 a.m. In the afternoon, AFIRE will hold the fun-filled and exciting “Art of Eating Balut” contest. Rock the Balut! walkers are encouraged to register in advance by calling 773-580-1025 or emailing afire@afirechicago.org. Clarito concluded. *** Indeed, “oh, it’s hard to say goodbye to the summer…” So, let us enjoy Chicago’s few remaining days of her summer breeze. And please… include in your prayers the safety of our hard-working Kababayans (compatriots) in Iraq. And for PEACE for the Whole Universe we live in. Amen. (esn)
Janelle Lising with her beloved Mom, Melinda Ignacio Lising, on their last “Mother’s Day” Motherand- Daughter celebration at the Hilton O’Hare last May 13, 2012. Melinda passed away the following year.
Our very own “MRS. PHILIPPINES INTERNATIONAL 2014” Rose Tibayan, (3rd from left) enjoys the camaraderie of fellow hopefuls for the “MRS. INTERNATIONAL” beauty crown during the final International Beauty Pageant competition last July 26-27 held in Jackson, Florida. From left are Snezhana Baranova, “Mrs. Russia International”; Zunera Mazhar, “Mrs. Pakistan International”; Rose Tibayan, “Mrs. Philippines International” and Amruta More- Survepatil, “Mrs. Asia International”. They were four of the 64 contestants for the crown won by Maggi Thorne.
A Ten-Gun Salute to Evelyn Tolledo, President of Bikol USA of the Midwest, for her Most Outstanding Leadership in hosting the BIKOL NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA, INC., 34th National Convention in Chicago, last July 25 to 27. Seldom we hear about “overflowing guests”except at this convention. More of this event next VT issue. This photo shows Evelyn, “the Junior Pilita,” performing with the great Philippine Diva Pilita Corrales — few months ago in Chicago.(ESN).
PIWC Chair Anita Rosa presented an Appreciation Plaque to Leticia Freihaut, Beauty Queen Committee co-chair; with Award co-chairs Lindy Tan and Chaz Patron.
Lourdes Livas, Chair of the PIWC Queen Committee, after receiving her Plaque of Appreciation from Award cochairs Lindy Tan and Chaz Patron. (To Lourdes, thanks for inviting me, Elsie.)
Some of the officers and members of the Divine Mercy Apostolate during their Fiesta celebration last April. Seated from left are Gesrene Enerio, Delia Tamayo, Beta Enerio, John and Ogi. Standing from left are Fiel Sanchez, Veronica Salvador, Aby Adaza, Fely Diego, Ben Adaza, the Rev. Fr. Sammy, Jenny Toque, Liza Soriano, Joyce Barcedo and unidentified friend. (ESN photo).
