Notebook

By: Elsie Sy-Niebar

*IF YOU DON’T WANT TO LEAVE A MESSAGE, DON’T CALLME!

*COMING UP FUNDRAISERS IN OUR FILAM COMMUNITY: Aug. 26, FACC 42ND Anniversary; Aug. 27, Expo Taghap and Friends Dance Concert; Aug. 28, the Sound of the ‘50’s Musical Concert Show, by Edizon and Chaz Patron; Sept. 11, 74th Maywood Bataan Day parade; Oct. 29th, 22nd Annual Chicago Filipino Asian American Hall of Fame

*PHILIPPINE PRES. DUTERTE to Declare Martial Law?

*HILARY CLINTON, A Big Hit at the DNC! Getting Better At The Polls

*GOP Support to TRUMP Wavering… some Political Eggheads fear…Da Donald might throw in the towel???

*Meet the two US Vice Presidential hopefuls— Clinton’s: US Sen. Tim Kaine from Virginia; Trump’s: Indiana Gov. Mike Pence

 

Now is my time to bring up our mundane and inane everyday “second nature habitual doings” which unfortunately – we are not aware how inconsiderate, rude, ill-educated, unethical and irresponsible are some of us to others — in spite of our college and even doctoral titles! (If you do not understand these two words mundane and inane, open your dictionary, the book you may never have opened (like the Bible) since the coming of i-phone, i-pad, I-etcetera, etcetera, in social media.) Let me walk you, dear VT readers through this zigzagging labyrinth of “social ignorance” among some of us which can be so aggravating it can start our palpitation!

This is like a prep-school lesson in telephone “ethics.” Yeah, ironically, still happens in this Age of Hi-Tech Social Media which I am no- Brainer. Here are few examples: You’re just spinning your human wheels when suddenly your phone rang. You are busy. Or you’re driving. Or you were sleeping. Or your phone was somewhere else … like mine. You tell yourself I’ll check those calls later. You have to make time. When you did, there were calls but NO messages. The Callers simply hang up they made an idiot out of you! A very common BAD and INCONSIDERATE HABIT among some of us! To these folks: Why BOTHER calling others when you have no time to leave a short message like who you are??? if the person you called could not answer your call hora mismo? We are all spinning our wheels, almost always.

Even at this Age of Cellphone-at-Hand, there are still people like me who DO NOT SLEEP with their cellphones. I need my landline to call my cellphone to find it. Back to the callers who do not leave a message: You called because you have something to tell that person. Just because the person was not available to answer your call – you can’t leave a short message? Nowadays, our landline and cellphone automatically register the caller’s phone number only – if the caller’s phone no. is registered in the phone, we called. NOT everyone are. I NEVER CALL BACK phone numbers I do not know. Depending upon my mood, I seldom return calls from callers I know if they do not leave a short message, more so if they don’t tell me who they are! I can’t read voices! To me, callers who do not leave a message means – their call is NOT IMPORTANT TO THEM. So, why should it be for me?

One does not have to be a college graduate to know how to be “ethical and considerate,” when using the telephone. When you call and someone answers, identify yourself and politely tell the person on the other line that you want to speak with so and so…unless you are talking with the person you need. When leaving a message for persons outside your family, LEAVE A BRIEF MESSAGE, i.e., identify yourself, briefly tell why you called and end your message with “please call me back, thank you.” Depending upon my mood, if you call and don’t leave a message, you will not hear from me. ****

PHILIPPINE PRESIDENT RODRIGO DUTERTE, to DECLARE MARTIAL LAW? Barely three months after he was inaugurated President of the Philippines, the news from the Philippines are all about the “harsh reforms” mandated by the new president, like the “ arrests and killing of some drug pushers and users” who refused rehabilitation.” The good side of this “law” is the “rehabilitation” being offered free by the Duterte administration. One of his priorities is identifying some “big- time drug pushers” allegedly, including some members of the Philippine government.

In a way, Duterte’s New Ruling, most people call “One-Man Law,” are loaded with changes for the good of the People of the Philippines who have been living under a “most corrupt government” according to critics. Duterte’s rise to POWER gives a New Life specialy to the 80% masses and a New Life of FEAR for the CORRUPT living in opulence.

The latest bombshell President Duterte dropped is his THREAT “TO DECLARE MARTIAL LAW”… a warning he sent to Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno for standing up to him, telling him that “only the Supreme Court can discipline judges.” This issue came out when the Lady Chief Judge advised the judges “not to heed” President Duterte’s order to explain to the police their alleged involvement in illegal drug deals. In a letter to Duterte, Judge Sereno, in part, told Duterte “it would matter greatly to our sense of constitutional order” giving the Supreme Court the power to discipline the judges, “as mandated by law.”

According to press reports from the Philippines, President Duterte responded to Judge Sereno at one of his community speeches, saying: “I’m giving you a warning. Don’t create a crisis because I will order everybody in the executive department not to honor you… Please do not, you say, create a constitutional issue. There will be. Don’t order me, I’m telling you. I hope you are listening. You want me to be frank? You’re interfering … Please, don’t order me. I’m not a fool. If this continues…I might lose my cool. Or would you rather I declare martial law?”

According to the news from the Philippines, President Duterte said he will write to Judge Sereno to tell her that reading the names of “seven judges” about their alleged involvement (in drug pushing) in public was not “accusatorial” but his “duty to tell the public.” As former government prosecutor before he was elected mayor of Davao City, President Duterte told the public he knew how the justice system works. Emphasizing on the seriousness of the drug problem, he added: “I have to tell you people, and nobody can stop me, do not tell me what to do, how to run this country.

Quo Vadis Philippines? God bless President Duterte and his Reforms. God Bless the Philippines and the Filipino People. ***

NOW, let us look closely to our own governance in “the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave,” preparing to elect our new President comes November.

HILARY RODHAM CLINTON (DEMOCRAT), in spite of her GOOF-UP with CLASSIFIED Government emails, is now making waves, vs. her opponent, billionaire DONALD TRUMP, a GOP candidate for President. As a result of DONALD TRUMP’s “brashness and lack of experience in government,” his popularity is sinking, some political analysts and his GOP supporters are getting pessimistic and fear Da Donald might drop the towel and walk away from his promises: “WE WILL MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN”!

As of press time, Mr. Trump’s supporters who compose more yuppies, are dwindling, which showed in the recent polls he is behind by two-digits to Hilary Clinton who is gaining more support, when she made a great “showdown” at the Democrat National Convention held at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, last July 25- 28, 2016: Her vice-president running- mate, Virginia US Senator Tim Kaine, is a big plus! He is a devout Roman Catholic, who, as a young man, worked with Jesuit missionaries in Honduras. He supports abortion rights and free trade. Sen. Kaine is a well-respected and admired Senator including his Republican friends.

Hilary Clinton chose Sen. Kaine, because: “I want someone who will be able to give me [his] best advice, look me in the eye, and tell me [he] disagrees with me when he does. But what matters most is a simple test that’s not so simple to meet: whether the person could step in at a moment’s notice and serve as President. I have no doubt that Tim can do the job,” Ms. Clinton said in her email to supporters.

Trump, on the other hand, picked Indiana Gov. Mike Pence for his vice-president running-mate. Gov. Pence spent six terms in the House. He is said to “bring along a social conservative record expected to shore up Trump’s support (from) within the GOP.” A son of a gas station manager, Gov. Pence was an altar boy and once considered entering the priesthood. Today, he considers himself “a born-again Christian.” Mr. Pence, according to political analysts, “can bring important legislative experience and conservative credentials” to Trump’s inexperience in public service.

More about Presidential hopefuls Trump and Clinton next issue… to help voters decide. Meanwhile, keep watching the news.

IVANKA TRUMP and CHELSEA CLINTON have stolen the show at both the Republican National Convention and Democrat National Convention, respectively, when they endorsed their Dads: “FOR PRESIDENT of the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA!” Here’s an excerpt of their well-applauded, long speeches and inroductions.

CO-STARRING: IVANKA TRUMP and CHELSEA CLINTON. Both political conventions were made more jubilant by the participation of the two young women: Ivana Trump and Chelsea Clinton, who some press people say are “good friends” in real life.

Here’s an excerpt from Ivanka’s speech, in adulation to her Dad: “As president, my father will change the labor laws that were put into place at a time when women were not a significant portion of the workforce. And he will focus on making quality child care affordable and accessible for all. “He will fight for equal pay for equal work, and I will fight for this, too, right alongside of him.” APPLAUSE!

CHELSEA CLINTON, after a long engaging personal tribute to her Mom, DEM Presidential nominee HILARY RODHAM CLINTON, held at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, last July 25- 28, 2016:

“My Mom is a listener and a doer. She’s a woman driven by compassion, faith, a fierce sense of justice and a heart full of love. So, this November, I’m voting for a woman who is my role model…who has spent her entire life fighting for families and children. I’m voting for the progressive, who will protect our planet from climate change and our communities from gun violence. Who will reform our criminal justice system, and who knows that women’s rights are human rights. Who knows, that LGBT rights, are human rights…who believes we can do better when together, we work together. Ladies and gentlemen, my mother, my hero, and our next President, Hillary Clinton!” APPLAUSE!

More next issue about these two great contenders: The First American Woman Candidate for President: HILARY RODHAM CLINTON and the Billionaire DONALD TRUMP. As citizens of this Great Country in the world, let us all get involved in politics so we will be aware of what’s going on and what’s in store for the Younger Generation – our chidren, our grandchildren, down the line. GOD BLESS AMERICA! HAPPY-NINGS IN OUR COMMUNITY FOR GOOD CAUSES:

FRIDAY,August 26: Thelma Bascos, Vice President of the FILIPINO AMERICAN COUNCIL OF GREATER CHICAGO, on behalf of the Pres. Dr. Juanito Crisostomo, who is recuperating from his surgery, said that the FACGC will celebrate its 42nd Year Anniversary to commemorate the purchase of the Rizal Center building. Guest speaker is the Hon. Karen Yarbrough, Cook County Recorder of Deeds, a very community- oriented government figure. The evening gathering will be a simple “Family-and Friends Get-Together” and a welcome to new members of the FACC.”

This columnist, as a Community Volunteer, is also cordially inviting our community especially the “older generation,” who once were a part of the Rizal Center when we were all starting to find our places under the sun in Chicago. Donation is only $10 per person, but of course, you may donate more if you wish. Donations to the FACC are tax deductible. Please call any of the following for RESERVATION: Thelma Bascos, 312) 208-3122; Bobby Luna, Trustee: 773) 524- 9798, or this columnist, Elsie, 773) 610-1287. See you all. especially the past beautiful FACC Beauty Queens who remain beautiful to this day!

SATURDAY, AUG. 27th, at the MIRAJ Banquet, at Milwaukee Avenue, Niles: From Musical Veteran EXPO TAGHAP, inviting everyone to their Fundraisig Concert of their group: FILIPINO MUSICIANS OF CHICAGO (FMOC, INC.) to raise funds for their three ailing “Music Brods”: Armando “Chubby” Aguas, was a singer with The Madisons; Humberto “Bert” Velarde; with Above and Beyond; and Rowell Reyes, played bass for Muzik Engine.

Expo wrote: “ Dear Ate Elsie: Our Love of Music inspired us to organize the FMOC, Inc. More importantly, to show our love and support for each other not only in words but in action, so we are holding this fundraiser. We are appealing for support to all our friends in the community by attending this fundraiser. We hope this event would unite us closely not only with our Musical Friends but especially with “Old Friends” in our community.”

Very touching. Please give your support, especially from our Kababayans. For reservations, please call Expo at 847) 312-1546.

SUNDAY, AUG. 28, Sheraton O’Hare Hotel, 0255 W. Irving Park Rd, Schiller Park, IL:A Luncheon “Sounds of the 50’s Concert” from 12 noon to 4pm, featuring Musical Diva Chaz Patron; Keyboard Talent E. Dizon and All- Time DJ Haidee Masangcay. Come dressed in the ‘50s and savor your TeenAge years! Part of the proceeds will be donated to a great cause. For information, call CHAZ PATRON at 224) 310-7492.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 11, at 3:00 p.m: The Consulate General of the Philippines invites the Filipino- American community in the Midwest and the general public to attend the 74th Annual Memorial Service of the Maywood Bataan Day at the Veterans Memorial, Maywood Park, located at First Avenue and Oak Street, Maywood, Illinois,. Participation is free and open to the public.

This is an annual project of Maywood Bataan Day Organization (MBDO), aimed at preserving the memory of the defense of Bataan by the American and Filipino soldiers who gave their lives. and perpetuating the observance of Maywood’s Bataan Day whose mission includes supporting veterans of all wars and providing educational resources through its archives and website (www.mbdo.org). For more information, please contact the Consulate General’s Cultural Officer, Anna Liza F. Alcantara, tel. no. (312) 583- 0621, or via email at chicagopcg@att.net.

Saturday, Oct. 29th: The 22nd annual celebration of the Chicago Filipino Asian American Hall of Fame 2016, the widelyacclaimed most prestigious gala event in our community (& other Fil- Am communities in America), at Hyat Regency O’Hare’s grand ballroom.

Enjoy the remainder of our short, hot Chicago summer. Include in your prayers our safety wherever we are. And never miss giving Thanks to our God for His Love and Mercy. And forgiveness. To God be the Glory. Amen. # PRESIDENT Duterte 74th MAYWOOD BATAAN DAY 2016 Featured in this affair were those who fought for freedom and liberty in the Philippine Campaign of World War II. The event aims to pay tribute to thousands of Filipino and American soldiers who displayed extraordinary gallantry and courage beyond the call of duty in defending Bataan and Corregidor in 1942. This day also honors the achievements of Filipino and American veterans and recognizes the sacrifices they have made and the heroism they have displayed.

The Consulate General of the Philippines strongly supports the Maywood Bataan Day Organization (MBDO) in its aim of preserving the memory of the defense of Bataan and perpetuating the observance of Maywood’s Bataan Day. MBDO’s mission also includes supporting veterans of all wars and providing educational resources through its archives and website (www.mbdo.org).

Preceding the service will be the playing of patriotic music, beginning at 2:30 pm, as well as color guards from various Veteran Groups and guest speakers. The Filipino community’s attendance will surely be appreciated by Maywood residents and Veterans organizations.

For more information, please contact the Consulate General’s Cultural Officer, Anna Liza F. Alcantara, at telephone no. (312) 583-0621, or email the Consulate at chicagopcg@att.net.

Hillary Clinton, US Presidential Candidate (D)

Donald Trump. US Presidential Candidate (R)

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte

(1) “HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY to our Manang, Tita, Lola, etcetera, etcetera, — Elsie Sy-Niebar on her birthday — August 24th. ” Blessed Seventy up… going on Fifty,” she quips. Greetings coming from her Family and “adopted” extended Families! (Photo by Rosie Reed);

(2) Notebook columnist Elsie Sy-Niebar (holding a plaque) joyfully poses with “Heart Relatives” Dr. Fred Sy and wife Hilda Sy, and her Sis Vilma Sy Villanueva Molina, at the PILIPINO AMERICAN SOCIAL SERVICES Award Night for Humanitarian Golden Heart, last June 5, 2016. Photo courtesy of Dr. Manny Escalona);

(3) Dr Manuel Malicay, past president of Far Eastern University Dr Nicanor Reyes Jr School of Medicine (FEUDRNRSM) Alumni Foundation; Dr Renato Ramos, chairman of the Dr Nicanor Reyes Jr annual memorial lecture committee, presenting a Plaque of Appreciation and Recognition to Dr Nunilo G. Rubio. He was the lecturer at the 21st annual Dr Nicanor Reyes Jr., 37th Reunion and Scientific Convention of the (FEUDRNRSM) Alumni Foundation, held at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square, last July 6 to 9, 2019. Dr. Rubio lectured on metal-related diabetes mellitus. (Contributed by Cesar V. Reyes, MD, editor, PMAC and FEU Medical Newsletters).

CONGRATULATIONS to Jane Cannon, Founder and President and her Officers for their successful third anniversary fundraiser last August 6. JJDC’s charitable recipients include Children’s Joy Foundation in Quezon City, Operation Smile, Feed My Starving Children, and others. Above photo are Jane Cannon, Founder/President; Robert Chavez, Director/Chairperson, the Hon. Consul General Generoso D.G. Calonge, Guest Speaker, and Myrna de Guzman, Vice President.

The FILIPINO CATHEDRAL SINGERS (FCS) under the direction of Vice Velarde, grandson of the internationally-known Mike Velarde, was the featured Chorale group that performed at Chicago’s WLSTV CH 7, last June 11, in conjunction with the celebration of the PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE DAY. This columnist (Elsie Sy-Niebar) is faithfully grateful to Channel 7 for accommodating a Philippine cultural segments during our Independence Day Week, for the past several years. Photo shows the FCS who rendered the famous Filipino love song “Dahil sa Iyo” or Because of you, popularized by the late Mike Velarde. From left are: Vice Velarde, FCS Director; Dr. Gloria Millare, Baby Flores, Judy Seghers, Lorena Estrada, Mary Ann Gaspar, Ilani Valero, and Al Williams.Back row (L-R): Carmen Bodino, Evelyn Reyes, Vel Guffey, Aida Mendoza, Elmer Carasig, Manny Belbis (partly hidden). The FCS is a mainstay chorale group for the Chicago Archdiocese. Not in photo is Stacey Baca, Ch 7 Anchorperson and reporter. Stacey who takes pride of her 25% Filipino ancestry, is past Awardee in Media of CPRTV/VIA TIMES “CHICAGO FILIPINO ASIAN AMERICAN HALL OF FAME,” the Filipino American’s “Oscar” annual presentation, coming up on October 29, 2016, at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare. Please call Veronica at 773) 866-0811 for details.