Notebook

By: Elsie Sy-Niebar

 

*DECEMBER 7 marks the 75th year of the BOMBING OF PEARL HARBOR by Imperial Japan which killed 2,400 American soldiers and 1,200 wounded

*BEST CHRISTMAS to ourWWII Veterans: US CONGRESS’ approval of the GOLD MEDAL of HEROISM to our Filipino American WWII Veterans!

**CHICAGO: Sunday, Dec. 4: first snowfalls shows ‘it was beginning to look a lot like CHRISTMAS’ — the Holy Season of the Year among Christians.

*CHICAGO, declared by Mayor Emanuel as ‘Sanctuary for Undocumented Immigrants,” but shows no mercy for President-elect Donald Trump! Strips him of his ‘Honorary Street sign’

*Our heartfelt CONDOLENCEs to the families of the late Mrs. LITA NAVARRO and ATTY. ROY BURGONIO

 

MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY HOLIDAYS to Everyone regardless of your Faith. To the Christians, Christmas is a celebration of the Holy and humblest birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, when His Virgin Mother Mary and father Joseph were refused a room in Bethlehem when Mary was in labor pains. Showing Heavenly Humility, Baby Jesus was born at a stable surrounded by the shepherds watching their flocks at night with the heavenly light shining upon the Manger, “where He lay, asleep on the hay.” Ironically, our modern world today associates Christmas with joy, fanfare, gifts and the coming of Santa Claus, to bring cheers to the children. Nothing wrong. Christmas is the happiest time of the year. In our human world, we are humane. Christmas brings Joy and Merriment, especially to the children who could not wait to see and sit on Santa Claus’ lap. And open their Christmas colorful Christmas gifts!

Sadly, amid this fanfare, the Meaning of Christmas we often missed is what the Bible says. We’re too busy having fun tinkering with our Ipad, Iphone, I-etcetera. This Christmas season, if you want to understand deeper what CHRISTmas means, please spend a few minutes away from your I-instruments and read the New Testament books of Matthew and Luke in the Bible (Matthew 1:18-25; 1:1; Luke 1:26-38; Luke 2:1-20). These Scriptures explain in very simple language the Biblical meaning of Christmas. Please try… this Christmas season.

This Christmas Yule, reserve for the Lord a place in your heart– a place to forgive those who trespassed you, and to ask forgiveness from those you trespassed. By so doing, KINDNESS will reign in your heart. Which means GIVING or SHARING your blessings not only material blessings but something which doesn’t cost a dime: Love, Kindness and Prayers. The greatest Gifts. Let the Lord be your constant Companion. MERRY CHRISTMAS and a BLESS-FULL YEAR 2017! Specially to all our dear VIA TIMES Readers. God bless you, ALL! ***

December 7, 2016, AMERICA celebrated the very nostalgic 75th bombing of Pearl Harbor, a “sneak attack” by 360 Japanese war planes, descending on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. Japan’s “sneaky attack” left America’s eight battleships, three destroyers, and seven other ships sunk and severely damaged. More than 200 aircrafts were destroyed. Leaving 2,400 American soldiers killed and 1,200 wounded, while valiantly fighting back the repulsive attack of Japan! Fortunately, during the attack, the United States three Pacific fleet carriers were out at sea on training maneuvers. The giant aircraft carriers took revenge against Japan six months later at the Battle of Midway, whose historic victory led to Japan’s defeat and surrender.

At this writing, it is heartbreaking to watch on television, few American soldiers in their 90s recalling such Japanese atrocities and how their fellow soldiers died. One 98-year-old WWII veteran said: “I don’t consider myself a hero. The true heroes were our comrades who lost their lives. I survived.” So touching and humbling. ***

COMMEMORATING PEARL HARBOR and the HEROISM of FILIPINO WORLD WAR II VETERANS, by NAFFA

The following is a press release (edited for space) from the NATIONAL FEDERATION of FILIPINO AMERICANS (NAFFA)based in Washington, D.C.: Seventy-five years ago today, Japanese fighter planes bombed Pearl Harbor. The same day, when the Japanese forces attacked the Philippines, then a U.S. territory. More than 250,000 Filipino soldiers responded to President Roosevelt’s call-to-arms to defend the Philippines and the United States. They endured some of the most horrific conditions anywhere in the world, including the Bataan Death March and the ravages of the bombing of Manila, second only to Warsaw in its destruction. They would not accept defeat. They would not quit. They would not leave a fallen comrade.

Half of them died in battle fighting under the American flag, making the ultimate sacrifice as soldiers in the U.S. Army Forces in the Far East (USAFFE) and as guerrilla fighters during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines. Those who survived suffered the scars of battle and the invisible wounds of war. They were forced to endure additional humiliation and a slap in the face when the U.S. Congress passed the 1946 Rescission Acts, which stripped them of their rights and promised benefits.

“This extraordinary moment can only be consoled with the award of the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal,” said Maj. Gen. Antonio Taguba (Ret), chairman of the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project. “Through all this time, the veterans –who have passed and lucky to be alived today, remained steadfast and resolute hoping that our country they have willingly defended, would right the wrong. Their determination to gain recognition was long and arduous.”

On November 30, the US Congress finally passed legislation granting recognition to the 260,000 Filipino soldiers for their service and sacrifice. It took more than 72 years! “The passage of this bill on the eve of the bombing of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, and the attack on the Philippines on Dec 8, 1941 is a momentous event, which is now enshrined in U.S. history,” adds Taguba.

“Commemorating the anniversary of ‘the day of infamy’ and the courageous response of Filipino and American soldiers to call to duty, should serve to remind us that their uncommon valor should never be forgotten, that this American story should be preserved for posterity. Always remembering what they did is the best way to protect our children and their children from the horrors of war.”

“But much less is known or remembered of the thousands of Filipino and American soldiers who fought bravely for our freedom more than half a century ago and half a world away. Granting them recognition ensures that their story is now a significant part of American history. Honoring and remembering them is the best way to keep their memory alive. They are America’s Filipino Soldiers of World War II. They are part of our American story.

“ Last November the House of Representatives approved S.1555, the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2015, passed by the Senate, and waiting for President Obama’s signature.

“I’m very happy because this recognition is long overdue,” says 99-year old Filipino World War II veteran Celestino Almeda of Gaithersburg, MD, one of the less than 7,000 surviving veterans residing in the U.S. today. “We responded to President Roosevelt’s call to serve and risked our lives fighting under the American flag. But after the war was over, we were treated unjustly, which was painful and humiliating.” ***

Today, overall, including those in the Philippines, less than 16,000 Filipino WWII veterans are alive, most of them ailing and in their 90s. In Chicago, Mr. Emilio Garcera, outgoing Chairman of Post 509, said: “today there are about 27 of us Veterans trying to survive. But most of us are sick and weak and could not leave home. We only have seven or less vets attending our monthly meetings. Most of us do not want to go back home to the Philippines due to the difficulties of getting medical help there,” Mr. Garcera said.

Sadly, nowadays, many of our Community Leaders seem to forget about our few surviving WWII veterans in Chicago. I told Mr. Garcera I want to meet them all, one day, specially while they are waiting for their Congressional Medal Award, after President Obama has signed it. He was very happy. To our Community Leaders or compassionate Kababayans: I am inviting you to join me in this “project” to show that we care for our aging WWII vets. Please call me at (773) 610-1287). Thank you.(Elsie Sy-Niebar) ***

CHICAGO MAYOR EMANUEL and PRESIDENT-elect DONALD TRUMP MET IN NEWYORK:

Killing two birds with one stone, Mayor Emanuel while in New York recently, to attend meetings, met with President-elect Donald Trump at his Trump Tower there. It is a very well-known fact that “there’s a bad blood” between them. During the campaign, Emanuel left no-holds-barred criticizing Trump “as unfit to lead.” When Trump won, thousands of illegal or undocumented immigrants feared for their status, specially with Trump’s campaign vow to send them home and will not allow any “sanctuary” any place in America. But since Trump’s victory, Emanuel assured undocumented immigrants that Chicago will be a “sanctuary”to protect them from Trump’s deportation, in spite of Trump’s promise to withhold federal funds from municipalities that protect undocumented immigrants from deportation” news reports said.

CHICAGO REMAINS VINDICTIVE TO TRUMP? DOWNTOWN: Three weeks before the oath-taking of President-elect Donald Trump at press time — as the 45th President of the United States of America, the Chicago City crews removed the remaining street signs honoring the billionaire real estate mogul-turned-Presidentelect, in front of his Trump Tower on Wabash Avenue, by the River Front, downtown Chicago. Days before that, when Mr. Trump was planning to stay overnight at his Trump Tower, demonstrators were ready to “welcome” him. Poor Mr. Trump. He cancelled his sleep-over in Chicago.

How long will this “Trump Hate” last in Chicago? I wanted CHANGE. I voted for Trump. I have no regrets. The GOOD is yet to come. I am optimistic. AMERICA will be GREAT AGAIN. Let us GIVE PRESIDENT TRUMP A CHANCE. SO HELP HIM, GOD. ****

CONDOLENCES: Lastly, it is with great sorrows for me to share with you the passing away of our two great Kababayans (Compatriots), the late Mrs. Lita Angeles Navarro (see cover story), and the late Atty. Roy Burgonio.

The late ATTY. ROY BURGONIO was called by the Lord to “Come Home” last December 4, after suffering for a few months from lung cancer, Clarita, R.N., Roy’s loving wife for 58 years, told this writer.

A native of Ilocos Sur, Roy was born on November 17, 1933. He was 83. The late Atty. Burgonio was one of the first Filipino lawyers who were licensed to practice law in Illinois and to have a law office on upscale location like Madison Avenue, downtown Chicago, he shared with four Filipino lawyers.

A very amiable gentleman who handled all his clients with professionalism and kindness, he was highly-respected by everyone both as an attorney and as a friend. In the early ‘80s when Filipino nurses were in demand at hospitals all over the United States, Roy traveled to the Philippines and was invited as guest speaker by his Rotarian Club, and health facilities like hospitals and Nursing Homes.

Through his speaking engagements, nurses came to seek help in coming to work in the United States, where Roy maintained contacts with health facilities. “My late husband was able to help hundreds of Filipino nurses come to the USA to work as nurses,” Clarita said with pride. “Roy was very kind and considerate. He never bragged. He was a magnanimous and loving husband, father and grandfather. Our family loved him. We will miss him as long as we live,” Clarita said with sadness. The Burgonios have five boys with their respective wife as follows: Bert and Myra; Leo and Maritel; Roy, Jr. and Frida; Roy III (Tres) and Fritzie, and Bob, single. Their grandchildren are Alyssa, Kayla, and Mia.The wake was held at Adolf Funeral Home in Willowbrook, last December 9. Mass and cremation was held the next day.

From this Writer: Roy was one of my very good friends since I first arrived in Chicago in 1976. He had helped me several times with my legal problems. During my employment as Asst. to the Commissioner, City of Chicago Dept. of Human Services, one of my job responsibilities was to help my immigrant clients find legal help. On several instances, Roy gave free legal assistance to some of my poor immigrant clients. He was very kind-hearted. To Clarita and Family — my heartfelt condolence for the loss of your loving husband and Dad of the Family. He is now in the Hands of his Maker. (Elsie). MERRY CHRISTmass. HAPPY AND SAFE NEWYEAR TO ALL. GOD grant PEACE ALL OVER THE WORLD!*

(1) First snowfalls came to Chicago last December 4; God’s response to some peoples’ Snowfall Wish! Photo shows a “heavenly” scene around my church: Faith Community Presbyterian Church. (ESN);

(2) SANTA CLAUS (Tim Geary) came to town early at the Christmas party of Silliman Alumni, Int’l. Chicago Chapter, last December 3rd. Jolly kids in picture are sisters in red & black stripes, Caitlyn, Alexa and their little brother, in red. Others in photos are unidentified Gabiola and dela Cruz kids.(esn)

President-elect and Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel met in New York, recently, to talk about the plight of undocumented immigrants in Chicago, whom Trump wants to deport, vs. Emanuel’s strong stand to keep Chicago as a “sanctuary” for illegals. As we all know, Trump and Emanuel are “no political Buddies” so, like Gov. Bruce Rauner (R) and Speaker Mike Madigan (D), another stalemate hangs on the balance, with the people hanging on a string.

SILLIMANIANS FOREVER together at the SAI Christmas party last Dec. 3. From left are Jean Ramoga (“MISS SILLIMAN” 1988); Elsie Sy-Niebar, and Ellen Ampong Garbrecht. Tonette Gualetara Geary is SAI International, president (2nd term).

(1) One of the many blessings at Faith Community Presbyterian Church (FCPC), Fil-Am church founded by homesick Filipino immigrants in 1945, are the talented youth who dedicate their talents in all church activities, like the Festival of Talents last December 2. 1) In photo is Andrew Bonje who surprised the congregation of his Tae Kwan Do performance. 2) Next photo is Anthony Filamor, a young R.N., who played the accoustic guitar like a Pro in concerts.; (2) Above are (some) members of the PHILIPPINE MEDICALASSOCIATION OF CHICAGO (PMAC) and its PMAC AUXILIARY headed by Dr. NIDA HERNAEZ, which hosted the annual THANKSGIVING PARTY for the Filipino American Seniors, held at the Dr. Jose Rizal Center, last November 19. Overall Coordinator is Dely Villalon, R.N. Seated at front from left to right are: Ms. Cadlaon,choral director; Fe Lumicao, Puring Baladad, Violeta Maquiso, Dr. Eeyn Tolentino; Dr—, Dr. Nida Hernaez, Dalisay Villalon, Dr. Zita Yorro, Dr. Elenita Rubio and Dr. Virginia de Guzman. Standing at back, left to right: Dr. Juanito Baladad, Dr. Virgilio Magsino, Dr.Emma Salazar, Dr. Edward Hernaez, Dr. Gregorio Tolentino, president, PMAC Foundation; Dr. Dionisio Yorro, PMAC President; Dr. Nunilo Rubio, Dr. Manny Escalona and Dr. Zosimo Herrera. The cultural program presented by the seniors provided the spark; the Gift Bags from the PMAC Auxiliary brought the Spirit of Christmas to the senior recipients.My huge thanks to Dr. Manny Escalona for helping me identify the above persons over the phone. The PMAC officers I called for help never returned my calls. Should I miss out someone, please do not complain. Elsie Sy-Niebar, editor/photographer/columnist! (3) The late Atty. Roy Burgonio, Sr., during the early days of his practice, at his law office on Madison Avenue, downtown Chicago.

(1) Childhood sweethearts Jasmine Valmores and Christian Lloyd Dotdot were given a wedding shower by their parents, lately, at Faith Community Presbyterian Church in Chicago, where the bride was raised by her parents — Church Elders Jesus “Bong” Valmores and Laila Valmores. Pastor John Chu officiated the Blessing.The Groom’s parents are Linda and Mario Dotdot. The “Honeymoon Wedding” to be joined by their parents and immediate families will be held on January 7, 2017, at the Hyatt Ziva, in Cancun, Mexico. God bless you both. Love each other in poorer or richer…(Tita Elsie).; (2) Rey and Ma. Liza Soriano, producers of the Eric and Angeline Concert, last Sept. 23, at the Pickwick Theater in Park Ridge, IL, present a lovely bouquet to the two Top Philippine performers — Erik Santos and Angeline Quinto, after the show. (Photo by Rosie Reed)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JUN! greetings followed by “Happy Birthday to you” group singing led by Evelyn Tolledo created a festive celebration at the residence of the celebrant, Atty. Arcadio “Jun” Joaquin, hosted by his loving wife, Dr. Alice Joaquin and their children. Above is one of the several groups who attended, front row are:Unidentified guest; Evelyn Tolledo; Adel Bendiola; Jean Betalac, Mila Mahiya. Back row, standing left to right are: Artist Willie Buhay; Leilani; unidentified; Florence and Sheryl Garcia; Dr. Alice Joaquin, wife and host; Melo Bactat; Dr. Eufrocina Joaquin Carandang; THE CELEBRANT, ATTY. JUN JOAQUIN; Olive Agustin; Purita Bendiola; Arlene Joaquin, and Courtney. (ESN)