“Forgotten Soldiers” POW documentary, May 26

The Pritzker Military Library will be showing on May 26 the documentary film about WWII Filipino and American soldiers who were left behind to face the Japanese death march in “Forgotten Soldiers.” Film showing will be at 1:00 pm. The film is narrated by Lou Diamond Philips.

“Forgotten Soldiers” focuses on 10 Philippine Scout survivors, their surrender and triumph. There are reenactments and actual footage of the events, according to the Pritzker Military Library press release.

Skokie Festival of Cultures, May 19 & 20

(Skokie, Ill.): More than 30,000 people are expected to visit the 22nd Annual Skokie Festival of Cultures on May 19 and 20, where they will savor exotic tastes, listen to the traditional sounds of ethnic music, and experience the dozens of cultures, languages and traditions that make up the Skokie community.

The 2012 edition of the festival will also feature Schaefer’s International Beer Tasting from 2-6 p.m. on both days.

Skokie’s unique cultural journey launches at Oakton Park in Skokie and will kick off when visitors receive their free “Passport to the World,” the official guide to all festival happenings. The passport will include a schedule of hourly ethnic performances, educational information, and a festival map, which will help attendees make their way through the 19-acre park full of attractions.

In addition, the festival will feature an International Games demonstration area and a variety of ethnic food vendors.

The more than 35 cultures represented at the festival will range from Albanian to Japanese, Pakistani to Mexican — and Russian to Thai.

Oakton Park is located at the corner of Oakton Street and Skokie Boulevard in Skokie, at 4701 Oakton St. The festival will begin at 11 a.m. both Saturday and Sunday, ending at 7 p.m. A free shuttle will be available to deliver attendees to the Festival grounds from Oakton Community College at 7701 Lincoln Ave., from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., on both days.

For more info, call the Skokie Park District, (847) 674-1500 or visit the official Skokie Festival of Cultures Web site at www.SkokieCultureFest.org.

Newly elected Cook County Circuit Court Judge

Filipina-American lawyer Jessica O’Brien was elected Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County during the primary elections on March 19. She is a graduate of the John Marshall School of Law, Class of 1998, and the first to finish a JD/LLM in Tax Law joint degree program in only 3 years, according to her Web site.  O’Brien works as Special Assistant Attorney General  with the Illinois Department of Revenue and her role is to litigate cases regarding partnership, corporate and individual income and sales taxation. She also works as Acting Chief Counsel for the Illinois Lottery by supervising the agency’s litigatation docket. Previously she worked for Schuyler Roche & Zwierner PC, practicing in employee benefits, estate planning,  and corporate taxation.
She is married to Brendan A. O’Brien, a partner at Hinshaw and Culbertson and they have three children.

Noli: The Opera at Harris Theatre, May 26 & 27

Jose Rizal’s: famous novel NOLI ME TANGERE (Touch Me Not), was written in l887, yet resonates with the “social cancer” it hoped to quell in many present day countries, even after 125 years. It will come alive in da Corneto Opera’s US premiere presentation at the Harris Theatre for Dance and Music, on Sat., May 26 at 7pm and Sun., May 27 at 3pm.

“NOLI” as the novel is popularly called, is one of two books written by the Philippine National Hero, Jose Rizal, a renaissance man, writer, poet and physician, whose monument can be seen along Chicago’s Lake Shore. The Opera was composed by Philippine National Artist, Felipe de Leon and this presentation celebrates Master de Leon’s centennial. It recounts the struggles of Juan Crisostomo Ibarra y Magsalin who returns to the Philippines after seven years of academic studies in Europe. He plans to wed his betrothed and fulfill his father’s dream of opening a school to pave the way for his country’s progress through education. In all things, he is thwarted by the notorious and influential Padre Damaso, creating a dramatic storyline of unrequited love, betrayal and revenge – that great operas are made of. The opera premiered in the Philippines in l957 and was re-staged in l987 with the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra to commemorate the centennial of the publication of the Noli by the Cultural Center of the Philippines. The Chicago premiere is the first outside the Philippines. There are six filipinos in the cast.

Mila Koleva (L) and Steven Wallace, ,playing Maria Clara and Don Crisostomo Ibarra along with the accompaniment of Anatoliy Torchinskiy (R), performed three songs for guests April 11. (PINOY Photo)

da Corneto Opera has been in existence since l997, and has received critical acclaim by the Chicago Tribune and Chicago Sun Times music critics in its productions through the years.
Tickets range from $35 to $90, and are available from Harris Theatre, 205 E. Randolph Street, Chicago, 312 334 7777. Box Office Hours are: Monday to Friday, 12noon to 6pm. Or: online at harristheatrechicago.org/events/2011-2012 season/11-12-dacorneto.  For more information visit www.DiversityThroughTheArts.org.

Illinois marks April 9 as Bataan Day

(PDI) To honor the memory and gallantry of the Filipino and American soldiers who fought in Bataan, Illinois Governor Pat Quinn has declared April 9 as Bataan Day in Illinois, Chicago Consul General Leo Herrera-Lim said in a statement.

A Bataan Day in Chicago and in the Village of Skokie were also proclaimed by Mayor Rahm Emmanuel of Chicago and Mayor George Van Dusen of Skokie, Illinois, respectively, Herrera-Lim said. Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White and Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan presided at the Bataan Day proclamations in the state, which were attended by some 200 government officials, World War II veterans and their relatives, as well as members of the Filipino community in Illinois.

Madigan said honoring the heroism of the soldiers in Bataan showed that “we are forever grateful and indebted for their incredible sacrifice to ensure the triumph of liberty and democracy over tyranny and justice.

Veterans Sidney Adelson and  Cleopatra Dulay-Pactol were also honored with the  Philippine Liberation Medals (Philippine Independence Medal, Philippine Defense Medal, Philippine Liberation Medal, World War II Victory Medal, and Philippine Republic Presidential Unit Citation Badge) and Certificates to World War II Veterans.

MANNY Aguja, the Chicago-based lawyer convicted Feb. 15 for his role in an arranged-marriage fraud will not  appeal his conviction.  He will start to serve his two-year sentence in a low security federal prison on May 1.  He was also slapped a $10,000 fine for his  conspiracy to assist in fake marriage to obtain legal immigration status for his clients.
Convicted at the same case was his identical brother, Marc, who assisted him in his conspiracy to commit marriage fraud. Marc served as a legal assistant in Manny Aguja’s law office in located at Albany Park in Chicago. He will begin his one-year sentence on May 15.  He was also fined $10,000.
“I am ready to face the consequence of my action. My brother and I appreciate the support of the many members of our community for vouching for our character and for the many good deeds we have done for the community. Please pray for our safety,” said Manny Aguja during a brief conversation with a member of the PINOY staff.
Manny Aguja was disbarred from practicing law in Illinois.

Pabasa at Rizal Center, March 31

The FACC Ladies Committee, Joy Dance Club and the First Saturday Devotees is inviting the public to the Pabasa on March 31 at 8:30 a.m. The Pabasa will be held at the Rizal Heritage Center, 1332 W. Irving Park Rd. Chicago, IL 60613.
For more information, contact Bobby Luna at (847) 894-5239.

Bataan Day Celebration in Chicago, April 8

The Philippine Consulate General in Chicago, in collaboration with the Mayor’s Office,  and the Commission on Human Relations Advisory Council on Veterans Affairs would like to invite the Filipino community to participate in the 69th Commemoration of Bataan Day, which will be held at the Bataan-Corregidor Memorial Bridge on Friday, April 8 at 9:00 a.m., at the corner of State Street and Wacker Drive, Chicago.  A short program will precede the wreath laying ceremony.
The event, which will be participated in by World War II veterans and survivors of the infamous Bataan “Death March”, will pay tribute to thousands of Filipino and American soldiers.
For inquiries, please contact the Consulate General office at (312) 332-6458.

Skokie Mayor Van Dusen Proclaims April 9 “Bataan Day”

On March 19, Village of Skokie Mayor George Van Dusen issued a proclamation making April 9, 2012 “Bataan Day” to commemorate the 70^th Anniversary of the Fall of Bataan, where soldiers fought and died after being captured by the Japanese and forced to walk the “Death March” to Tarlac.

Memphis names PHL honored country

The Philippines has been named the “honored country” by Memphis—the largest city in the US southeastern state of Tennessee—in its 2012 Memphis in May International Festival (MIMIF), the US Embassy in Manila announced March 22.
Philippine Ambassador to Washington Jose Cuisia Jr.said “….the Filipino people are truly humbled by the privilege bestowed upon the Philippines as the honored country for the 2012 MIMIF, showcasing the best of Philippine culture, cuisine, performances, business practices and Filipino hospitality.”
“This festival will clearly demonstrate that ‘it’s more fun in the Philippines,’” Cuisia said, quoting the new Philippine slogan for promoting tourism.
Aside from building international ties and understanding, the MIMIF also “fosters civic pride and promotes awareness of Memphis heritage,” the  US Embassy said.
Last month, at least 30 community and business leaders from Memphis visited the Philippines to “explore areas for potential trade and investment,” the embassy said.
“The delegation will be joined by their families and friends and other Memphis cultural enthusiasts,” the embassy said.
Known as the “River City,” Memphis was founded in 1819. It is the 20th largest city in the United States. (PDI)

“Piyesta Pinoy “at Navy Pier, April 1

Come celebrate the tradition of the Filipino piyesta at Navy Pier’s Neighborhoods of the World performance series at “Piyesta Pinoy” on Sunday, April 1, noon, at Crystal Gardens where admission is free.
While already part of the Chicago Children’s Museum’s yearly Passport to the World series, this is the first time the Philippines is featured at Navy Pier’s Neighborhoods of the World series honoring Chicago’s ethnic neighborhoods and cultural diversity. The famous Crystal Gardens are located on the same floor as the Chicago Children’s Museum. “Piyesta Pinoy” is a landmark opportunity to learn about Philippine culture and traditions, and to meet the community currently living in Chicago.
“Piyesta” is the Filipino translation for celebration, fiesta and festival. In the Philippines, every town and village throws a yearly festival to honor a patron saint, to celebrate a bountiful harvest or to just have fun.
Philippine Fest Chicago is presented by Navy Pier in partnership with the Consulate General of the Philippines and the Philippine American Cultural Foundation. Contact Cultural Officer, Berth D. Salvador, at telephone no. (312) 332-6458 ext. 22 for more info.

PIWC 2012 Essay contest, May 19

The Philippine Independence Week Commitee 2012 (PIWC) and the Knights of Rizal (KOR) is sponsoring  an essay writing contest on Sat., May 19 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. The registration deadline will be on May 10.
Contestants are eligible if they are in the 7th -12th grade and have at least one parent of Filipino heritage. Judges will award the top 4 essayists with a cash prize. The first place essayist wins $250 and their essay will be published in the Filipino community periodical. There will be a $15 bonus for each essayist and the topic will be announced on the day of the writing contest.   The contest will be held at the Wright College Computer Lab, 4300 Narraganset, Chicago, IL 60634. To register,  email Jo Wee Sit the student’s name, DOB, address, telephone number, parents’ names, school, and grade to weesitinalsip@sbcglobal.net under the subject : Registering for essay contest. Contact Jo Wee Sit at 708-389-7135.

Passport to the World:  Philippines, June 14

Families are invited to watch  performances, activities, and demonstrations celebrating the Philippine culture at the Chicago Children’s Museum at Navy Pier on June 13-15. There will be a parade of Filipino costumes and festivals prior to the Passport to the World on June 11 and 12 at 11 a.m. at Navy Pier.
The Philippines Passport to the Philippines will be held at the museum for three days, specifically on Thursday, June 14 from  5:30 pm- 7:30 pm, Friday, June 15, from   11:00 am – 3:00 pm, and Saturday, June 16 from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm.

Philippine Independence Week Committee (PIWC) elected a new Trustee President Ben Tibayan (5th fr. L), shown at their celebration at Little Quiapo including PIWC past Chairmen, Dely Villalon, Romy Gumila, Francis Mon, Joy Manuel, and Art Dilay. Not shown PIWC 2012 Chair Brenda Stevens. (PINOY Photo by Anong)

Bataan Day Commemoration, April 4

The Philippine Consulate General in Chicago, in collaboration with the Mayor’s Office, Commission on Human Relations Advisory Council on Veterans Affairs, invites the public to the 70th Commemoration or “Platinum Jubilee” of Bataan Day with a wreath laying ceremony at the Bataan-Corregidor Memorial Bridge on Wed 04 April at 9 a.m., at the corner of State Street and Wacker Drive, Chicago.
The event will 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 against the invading enemy forces in 1942.

Basic Tagalog class, April 7- June 23

The Filipino American Council of Greater Chicago (FACC) is offering a Basic Grammar & Conversational Tagalog Class  every Saturday for 12 sessions from April 7 to June 23.
They will be held at the Jose Rizal HEritage Center, 1332 W. Irving park Rd., Chicago from 4-6 pm. Students must register on two Saturdays of March 10 & 17 at the Rizal Center from 4-6 p.m. For more information, contact Sally Richmond at 773-541-1725 or email sallyvelascor@yahoo.com

Fil-Ams donate school supplies to Batangas

The Filipino/American Friendship Club in Chicago is asking for donations of school supplies which will be shipped to the needy kids in Balayan, Batangas, Philippines. The Club’s mission is to purchase Bibles and school supplies for the children in the remote areas of the Philippines. The club raises funds through fundraising projects to support the mission. Ray Bensing Sr., a National Representative for the Filipino/American Friendship Club, is asking for pencils, paper, notebooks and other items. Please send supplies before April  7. You may send the donations to Post Office Box 300924, Chicago, IL 60630-0924.
Call Ray at 773-226-9513 if you are unable to deliver the items and he will come and pick up donations if neccesary or e-mail him at brother_ray@comcast.net.

Shopping Locally can hold down Property Tax Bills

By Dan Patlak

Commisioner of the Cook County Board of Review

Dan Patlak

Every community has their own collection of small businesses, many of them family owned and operated. We consider them as fixtures in our neighborhoods and it is painful to see them struggle in this tough economy. They face relentless competition from big box stores and on-line shopping. Shoppers are always looking for bargains and local merchants find it difficult to fight a pricing war. Loyalty to community and friendly service are important characteristics of the successful local business; however, you have another important reason to shop locally: supporting your local businesses will keep your property taxes down.
It’s easy to understand that sales taxes collected locally will help your local government, but property tax help is more complicated. Residential property owners and businesses share the property tax burden. The higher the assessed value, the more you pay in property taxes. Commercial property owners have a higher level of assessment than residential and will pay two and half times as much for the same market value of property. This variation in assessment is a Cook County phenomenon and puts tremendous pressure on our Cook County businesses that are close to a bordering county. That is why the effort of the Cook County Board  to bring down the sales tax rate is so important.
Commercial property is valued according to the income that it produces, so when struggling businesses in Cook County close, the property value and the amount of taxes paid for that property could be reduced. The assessed value of a commercial property is largely determined by the rent that is collected by the property owner. When a storefront is vacant, the rent revenue stream is diminished. Since the taxing bodies are not lowering their levies, all the property owners that are left pay the lost tax revenue. For example: if a five-store strip mall that has five businesses paying an equal amount of rent then loses two businesses, the property owner can lose 40% of his income and be eligible to apply for a 40% reduction in his assessed valuation for that property. Pay attention to those empty storefronts in your community. We are all paying their taxes.
So when your local Chamber of Commerce encourages you to buy locally, remember that driving out of town to save a little money now may cost you later in your property tax bill.  Save your local stores and save yourself some property tax costs. •

DAN PATLAK is the 1st District Commissioner of the Cook County Board of Review (Property Tax Appeals). He is currently running for re-election in the upcoming March 20 Republican primary. He is married to the former Dulce Colobo. They live in Wheeling, IL (See his ad on page 9.)

Community gathering, March 10

On Sat., March 10, The University of the Philippines Alumni Association of Greater Chicago (UPAAGC) in partnership with The Field Museum will offer a Maori Community Gathering which will discuss foreign influences that trace and reconnect reconnect  origins of Philippine arts, culture and heritage.  Also, The Field Museum will exhibit its collection of 11,000 never before seen  Philippine artifacts on the same day from 1 pm to 2:30 pm at the Chicago Museum Campus, 1400 Lakeshore Drive in Chicago.

The Philippine Fest Chicago at Navy  Pier, April 1

The Philippine Consulate General in collaboration with Navy Pier is inviting the Fil-Am community on Sun., April 1 at 12 Noon to the Philippine Fest Chicago (Piyesta Pinoy sa Chicago) at Crystal Gardens in Navy Pier. Admission is Free.
The event is part of the Neighborhoods of the World Program of Navy Pier. The City of Chicago has put forth a mission of providing cultural entertainment to the public. The Fil-Am community will be represented for the first time at this annual event.
The event will feature a display of Philippine arts and crafts, Philippine tourism and information materials, art workshops, performances of Filipino cultural dances in colorful costumes, as well as Filipino folk songs and OPM music by local talents.
Contact Cultural Officer, Berth D. Salvador, at telephone no. (312) 332-6458 ext. 22 for more info.

Free Flu Shot Vouchers

The Filipino American Community Health Inititative of Chicago (FACHIC) in partnership with the Department of Public Health  will be giving Flu shot vouchers for any Walgreens in the Chicagoland to those who are eligible. To be eligible, one must be 18 years old (or 14-18 years old if parent or guardian’s permission), not have health insurance and not be able to cover the cost of the flu shot.
If you are interested in receiving a voucher or know someone who would benefit from receiving a voucher, call (312) 962-7748 for more information.Vouchers are limited and subject to availability.  Vouchers may be sent via US first class mail or picked up at the monthly free FACHIC social work clinics.

U.S. Rep. Steve Austria from Ohio drops re-election bid for Congress

Republican Ohio congressman Steve Austria decided not to run for re-election after a new district line was drawn in his area, according to an AP report.Under the new map, Austria was one of three who would have competed against incumbents of Ohio’s 10th district.
Austria was a co-sponsor of the SAVE ACT which is a loss for the Filipino American community. Rep. Austria has served two terms for Ohio’s 7th congressional district.
He is quoted as saying that he is “the first, first-generation Filipino to be elected to the United States Congress.”•

The Philippine Consulate General in Chicago gave a list of banks where monetary donations can be remitted for victims of Sendong. Payment in dollars can be remitted through: Banco De Oro, Account No: 10-453-0039482, Swift Code: BNORPHMM; Metrobank, Account No: 151-2-15100218-2, Swift Code: MBTCPHMM; Philippine National Bank, Account No: 3752-8350-0042Swift Code: PNBMPHMM; Development Bank of the Philippines- Camp Aguinaldo Branch, Account Name: NDRRMC Donated Funds, Account Number: 0435-021927-130, Swift Code: DBPHPMM.

The Philippine Consulate General in Chicago would like to inform the public and concerned overseas Filipinos in the Midwest that the DSWD’s guidelines for donations from foreign sources may be found on the following websites: http://www.dswd.gov.ph/phocadownload/ao/ao6series2010.pdf and www.dfa.gov.ph (under the “Advisory” tab). •

Cfc appeals help for Mindanao disaster victims

Chicago area members of the Couples for Christ are urged by CfC Ugnayan Multi- media center to respond to the call for food, clean water and medicine for the Dec. 17 flash floods that resulted to close to a thousand deaths in the Iligan City, Cagayan de Oro and Dumaguete City areas that were adversely affected by Typhoon Sendong.
Several members of the CfC were among those who perished in the disaster. Please send in your financial contributions as follows:
Account  name :    Couples for Christ ,   Account no.     :     BPI Savings Account 3103-3055-85.   •

FACHIC seeking older adults in need of care

The Filipino American Community Health Initiative of Chicago (FACHIC) wishes to help older adults in the Filipino community in need of holiday “T.L.C” (tender love and care). FACHIC’s Parol Program,  aims to spread holiday cheer through a Christmas card mailing with community health resources, well being calls, and for those most in need,-home visits with gift baskets of necessity items/gift cards to local stores.
If you or someone you know is an older adult who would benefit from FACHIC’s wellness and health assistance offerings, contact FACHIC’s Parol Program by calling (312) 962-7748 or send an e-mail to parolseniors@fachic.org.
FACHIC staff is also available to assist with concerns or questions about housing, prescription medications, Medicare/Medicaid, Social Security/Public Aid, and community resources. FACHIC will be conducting wellness calls and home visits within the duration of their Parol Program. •

PMAC/FEUMAANI medical mission trip 2012

The Philippine Medical Association in Chicago (PMAC) will lead a medical surgical mission to Vigan, San Esteban, Santa Maria and Santa Catalina, Ilocos Sur, Philippines from  Jan. 17-21. Numerous volunteer medical doctors will provide free health services to local citizens  who do not have access to a physician due to limited resources.
The PMAC is co-sponsored by the Far Eastern University Medical Alumni Association in Northern Illinois (FEUMAANI) and is headed by Dr. Ed Hernaez.The medical missions will perform major and minor surgeries in Vigan. •

Eco-friendly First Bank & Trust opens in Skokie

By Grace Garcia

First Bank & Trust staff and community officials watch as Mayor George Van Dusen (4th from L) cuts the ribbon for the grand opening on Dec. 6. (L-R) is FBT Managing Director Jay Lytle, Skokie Trustee Pramod Shah, Branch manager Lu Ann Stempel and Village of Skokie Trustee Michael Lorge (R). (Photo by Duron Studio Photography)

A new branch of First Bank & Trust located on the southwest corner of Dempster and Crawford  Streets in Skokie celebrated its grand opening on Dec. 6 showcasing the first ever environmentally friendly freestanding building in the Midwest to meet the requirements of Leadership for Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) gold-certification established by the U.S.  Green Building Council (USGBC), according to branch manager Lu Ann Stempel.

The building’s eco-friendly features were built to conserve energy and resources.

A geo-thermal heat system uses the constant earth temperature to heat and cool without the use of gas.  A green roof was built to cover  66% of the roof to reduce the urban heat island effect of a conventional roofing system. LED light fixtures were added in place of light bulbs to save electricity.

The building materials were obtained from sources within 500 miles to decrease energy use for transportation of materials.

The lot of the bank is a brown field redevelopment.

“We chose to build a LEED facility because it is the right think to do, said First Bank & Trust Corporate Secretary and Administrative Officer Joan Yohanan. Investing in the green technologies will benefit the bank and its neighbors and reduce costs in the future.

The building will be the 8th branch of First Bank & Trust which has been in business for 16 years. FBT is a locally owned and managed community bank. It has eight locations throughout Illinois.

Among the over 200 guests at the opening were the Evanston architect Behls + Behls, the contractors of Knudsen Construction, the Board of Directors, the Skokie Chamber of Commerce, and the Dempster Merchant’s Association.

Branch manager Lu Ann Stempel, who has been a banker for 13 years, is proud of what the new “green” bank branch has to offer.

“The bank is beautiful. This is a community bank giving back to the community and it is a great example for businesses,” Stempel said.

Managing Director Jay Lytle spoke about FBT’s commitment to excellent service and how it has brought success to FBT’s branches. He also added that FBT “thrived during a period in which other banks were in financial crisis.”

Mayor Van Dusen spoke about how First Bank & Trust worked with the Village of Skokie for five years to address concerns about the construction and operation of the lot within a mixed business and residential  zone.•

The Fellowship of Asian Americans of Northern Illinois Conference will  meet on Saturday, Dec. 3 for the election of new officers. This is also potluck Asia food gathering to celebrate the coming Christmas season as well as to foster interdependence among the Asian American communities within the Northern Illinois Conference.
The Christmas Gathering  will be held at Elston Avenue UMC, 5850 Elston Ave., Chicago, Il 60646  at 11:30 am and expected to last until 1:30 pm. It is open invitation to interested persons.
Send nominations to the Nomination Committee which consists of Ernest Singh, Pong Javier, Romir Esguerra, SunJa Lee Moon and Gloria Talapian.
Following the luncheon at 11:30 am, a short worship service will be held. The nomination and election of new officers will follow immediately after the worship service.
For more information, please contact Rev. Ernest Singh of West Ridge United Methodist Church, Chicago at (847) 414-3243 or revernestsingh@hotmail.com.•

Advisory on shipping balikbayan boxes

The Philippine Consulate General, Chicago would like to provide the public with reminder on sending balikbayan boxes to avoid lost or damaged package.
It’s this time of the year that many Filipinos send packages to their loved ones in the Philippines. Last year, the Philippine Consulate General received a number of complaints on the delay and non-delivery of balikbayan boxes. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through its Philippine Shipper’s Bureau (PSB), had to interfere to enable consignees to receive their balikbayan boxes, but after a long wait.
In order to prevent this season of joy to end up in frustration, we would like to emphasize to be cautious of the Shipping Companies to be engaged with their services. Also, we would like to provide the following guidelines:
1. Organize all the things you want to send through a balikbayan box and do not go beyond the space and weight allowance;
2.    Ship only through reputable service provider. Beware of exceptionally very low rates. The indicative rates for the Philippines are: $85 for Metro Manila and Luzon, $90 for Visayas and $100 for Mindanao.
3.    Declare your shipment by accomplishing a detailed packing list;
4. Secure transport documents such as cargo receipt (or official receiept) for fees paid and Bill of Lading;
5. Get the name and the contact details of the forwarder’s agent in the Philippines;
6.   Monitor the movement of your cargo;
7.   Inform your consignee to check your cargo with the Philippine freight forwarding agent even before it arrives;
8.    The following items are not allowed to be included in the box: currencies, checks, money orders and traveler’s check.   ewelries,  firearms, ammunitions and explosives,  controlled drugs and other substances,  pornographic materials, gambling cards and toy guns,  pirated products i.e. dvd, cd, tapes, etc.;
If you encounter pilferage or lost item, or non-delivery, file an immediate claim or complaint with the freight forwarder’s customer service.   You may also file your complain directly to the Philippine Shipper’s Bureau at 2nd Floor, DTI Building, 361 Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City or call the  DTI-Direct at (63-2) 751-3330 for assistance.
For more information, you can visit the DTI-PSB website at http://dti.gov.ph/dti/index.php?p=65. • (Press Release)

Niles Food Pantry & Skokie program need food items

The Niles Township Food Pantry is seeking donations of food and personal care items. Since the federal government has cutback its spending, the pantry has received less funding and not enough food to distribute to those in need. Also, because of the bad economy, more people are turning to the food pantry. On average, there are 3,000 individuals who use the pantry each month.
Food items accepted are: hams, roasting chickens, turkeys, bottled or canned juice, canned fruit, small jars of jelly, peanut butter, macaroni and cheese, canned soups, boxed pasta dishes, boxed rice dishes, and stuffing mix. Personal care items that are accepted are: razors (men/women), deodorant, soap, shampoo and conditioner, lotion, shaving cream, tissues, toilet paper,and  laundry detergent. There has been a huge need for baby pampers of all sizes and diaper rash ointments due to the increase in families who are facing hard economic times.
Cash donations are also welcome and checks can be made out to the Niles Township Food Pantry Foundation. The Niles Township Food Pantry is located at 5255 Main Street, Skokie, IL 60077 at the Annex Building. It is open Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to  1:30 p.m. and 1:00 p.m.  to 4:00 p.m. The pantry is closed on the last two days of every month so that shelves can be restocked. Call Food Pantry Director Cynthia Carranza at 847-983-0073.
Meanwhile Skokie residents have created The Community Giving Program fifteen years ago to assist families who have limited financial resources during the winter holidays.
A donation of any amount is welcomed to provide holiday gift cards for children and for a$10 gift card providing a grocery gift card for one family member of a household.
Donations to the Community Giving Program that total $25,000 will be matched by the Skokie community Fund  to every dollar up to $10,000. Donations are welcome by Dec. 10 at the Skokie Human Services Division. To make a donation, call 847-933-8208. •

Davao USA Midwest induction dance, Dec. 3

The Davao USA of the Midwest will be having its induction of a new set of officers and Christmas dinner dance on Sat., Dec. 3rd.
Davao USA is a non-profit organization created to bring together fellow Dabawenyos here in the Chicago Metro Area and also to  help  the  less fortunate in the Philippines. They have given  financial assistance and donations to the American Red Cross, Mother Theresa’s Orphanage, the  flood victims  and the  Chicago  Medical  Association medical mission in  Davao, Philippines since its conception 24 years ago.  In the past year, Davao USA have helped some of the most remote elementary schools around Davao City by giving welcomed school supplies,  computers and donated construction material for the safety of the school children.
For questions, contact Felita Simpao Cajaleon at 773-614-0391.•

The Niles Township Food Pantry is seeking donations of food and personal care items. Since the federal government has cutback its spending, the pantry has received less funding and not enough food to distribute. Also, because of the bad economy, more people are turning to the food pantry. On average, there are 3,000 individuals who use the pantry each month.

Food items accepted are: hams, roasting chickens, turkeys, bottled or canned juice, canned fruit, small jars of jelly, peanut butter, macaroni and cheese, canned soups, boxed pasta dishes, boxed rice dishes, stuffing mix, packaged cookies, small cans of coffee, small boxes of tea, cake mixes, pie shells (frozen or dry), and pie fillings.

Personal care items that are accepted are: razors (men/women), deodorant, soap, shampoo and conditioner, lotion, shaving cream, tissues, toilet paper, laundry detergent, bleach, mouthwash, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and aftershave. There has been a huge need for baby pampers of all sizes and diaper rash ointments due to the increase in families who are facing hard economic times.

Cash donations are also welcome and checks can be made out to the Niles Township Food Pantry Foundation. The Niles Township Food Pantry is located at 5255 Main Street, Skokie, IL 60077 at the Annex Building. It is open Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to  1:30 p.m. and 1:00 p.m.  to 4:00 p.m. The pantry is closed on the last two days of every month so that shelves can be restocked. To donate cash or food, call Food Pantry Director Cynthia Carranza at 847-983-0073.•

Notice of registration to all Filipino citizens

The Philippine Consulate General in Chicago would like to inform that under Republic Act No. 9189, otherwise known as “The Overseas Absentee Voting Act of 2003”, all qualified Filipino Overseas Absentee Voter’s (OAV) applicants may file applications for registration, certification and transfer of registration records starting on Nov. 2 until Oct. 31 2012, Mondays to Fridays, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, except during regular and declared holidays in the Philippines and the US, at the Consular Section of the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate in the US.

For qualified Filipino Overseas Absentee Voter’s (OAV) applicants in the Midwest, they may file applications for registration, certification and transfer of registration records with the Philippine Consulate General in Chicago.

Who can register:  All Filipino citizens/dual citizens, not otherwise disqualified by law, at least eighteen (18) years of age on the day of the election (May 13 2013) and residing in areas under the jurisdiction of the Philippine Embassy Consulates General in the United States.

What to bring:  Qualified applicants need to personally appear at the Embassy or Consulate and bring the original and photocopy of the following documents:
• For Filipino citizens – Valid Philippine passport
• For seafarers – Seaman’s Book
• For dual citizens without Philippine passports – Order of Approval or Certificate of Identity or Oath of Allegiance
• Additional I.D. with photo and signature
Application forms are available at the Consulate or may be downloaded from: www.comelec.gov.ph/oav/2013_natl_local/downloables/reg_forms.html.

The overseas absentee voters with approved application to vote in absentia, may vote for Senators and Party-List Representatives from April 13 to May 13, 2013. Field and mobile registration will also be held in selected areas under the jurisdiction of the Philippine Consulate General in Chicago.

For more information, please visit www.comelec.gov.ph or contact the Philippine Consulate General in Chicago at (312) 332-6458 ext. 15 (Deputy Consul General Orontes V. Castro) or ext. 21 (Ms. Anita F. Saldo, ATN Officer) or e-mail at chicagopcg@pcgchicago.comcastbiz.net. •
(Press Release)

Free foodservice job training

Are you interested in a job in the foodservice industry?

The Chicago Community Kitchen is offering a free 14-week training classes in the foodservice industry for applicants who are accepted into the program. Applicants must meet the basic requirements of (a) availability from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday through Friday, (b) be at least 18 years of age, (c) be drug free and can pass a drug screening test, (d) have basic math skills and a minimum 6th grade reading level for textbook study, exam completion and writing documents, (e) be either unemployed or underemployed, and (f) want a job in the foodservice industry.

Students who are accepted will receive hands-on-experience, employment and life skills classes, transportation assistance, a fifteen-hour ServSafe sanitation course, a professional resume and letter of recommendation, a two week internship in a commercial kitchen, and job placement assistance.

To reach a training and recruitment staff, call 773-843-5414. •

Nurse from Bridgeport, IL beaten to death

A Pinay elderly woman, Virginia Perillo ,was found beaten to death at her Bridgeview home in the South Side on Oct. 22, a Tribune report said.

She had worked as a nurse at Rush University Medical Center  for 40 years, according to the report.

She was found face-down in her garage, while her car was running, a report from the Huffington Post stated, and never regained consciousness from the blows to her head. She eventually died at Stroger Hospital and had just celebrated her birthday last Oct. 10 turning 73.

She is survived by three sons and her husband. According to her son John Perillo, he told the Tribune that  nursing was her passion.
Mrs. Perillo had just celebrated her 40 years’ service at the hospital. •

Bayan Bayanan play, Nov. 11, 12 and 13

International award-winning playwright/director, Dr. Anton Juan, has recently enthralled Chicagoans with his direction of “Sweet Stranger.”  Dr. Juan, whom we fondly call Anton, will again captivate audiences as he directs the Chicago premier of the play entitled Bayan Bayanan at St. Scholastica Academy Theater on November 11, 12 and 13.

Bayan Bayanan is a modern masterpiece by acclaimed Filipino playwright Bienvenido Noriega Jr.  With added scenes and concept by Dr. Anton Juan, he has successfully directed the play to the delight of multi-ethnic audiences in Athens, London, Geneva, and Paris. Playing lead role is Ms. Cherie Gil, one of the Philippines’ finest actresses of Swiss, German, Spanish and Filipino descent. The theme music for the play was composed by accomplished anesthesiologist, Dr. Cleofe Guangko Casambre, who is also a professionally trained composer and pianist.

Bayan-Bayanan confronts the tender, painful contradictions of immigrant life but always with the edge of laughter and acceptance of human frailty.  At the wave of the migration of Filipino overseas workers, immigrant groups gathered to rekindle life back home.  Although it is a play about Filipinos, it speaks to the world, where the history of migrants is a shared memory. It is a play about the dichotomy of flight, the quest for dreams, and the return to the nation’s memory and origin.

Bayan Bayanan is brought to you by the Migrant Care Foundation, Migrant Moon and Education Resources, Inc. (EDRI).
EDRI is a minority and women-owned corporation with a mission to provide multi-disciplinary approaches to education, professional development and diversity.  Its vision is to serve as a catalyst for constructive competitiveness and meaningful cooperation among individuals and organizations.

Part of the proceeds will help build the Teddy Rey Healing Place, a multi-purpose complex which is expected to be completed in early 2012.  This building, which will be located in front of one of the Pediatric wards of the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) and adjacent to the Watchers’ Area, will house the lactation/breastfeeding room, play room, and a prayer/meditation room. This complex will answer the need for a facility where physicians can meet with families for consultations and counseling as well as a private area for patients and their families. Aside from meeting the medical needs of the community, the Teddy Rey Healing Place will also provide an opportunity for cancer-stricken and chronically ill children to receive basic education while undergoing treatment, through the “Silahis ng Kalusugan” or the “School for the Chronically Ill” of which additional financial support is truly needed.

For more information, please contact EDRI at (773) 598-9880 or send an e-mail to info@edresourcesinc.com.•

(Press Release)

The annual Adobofest festival is a taste-off of various adobo entrees and offers live performances and children’s games. It will be held at the LaBagh Woods, 5300 N. Cicero Ave., (Cicero & Foster), Grove #2 and #4 on Sat., Sept. 17 from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
A small donation of $8 per attendee allows a sample of each adobo entrée. A select group of judges will decide on the winning adobo entrée. Guests are encouraged to bring their own food and drink. Free rice and ice will be provided for up to 500 attendees. New activities offered this year are the “Pandesal eating contest for adults” and “Polvoron eating contest for children.”
Also taking place along with the Adobofest is the annual 3K Gawad Kalinga Walk starting at 10 a.m. Registration will start at 9:30 a.m. at Grove #3, LaBagh Woods. Its proceeds will go to GK housing projects which includes houses for the poor, health care, pre-school education and economic development in the Philippines.  A simple breakfast will be served for GK Walk attendees.
Waiver of registration fees, free tickets to the Adobofest taste-off and chef demo, free shirts and special gifts await participants.
The Filipino American Network (FAN) started the Adobofest four years ago for the purpose of raising funds for FAN’s current programs, partner charities and the festival itself. FAN’s existing programs are the Chicago Filipino American Film Festival (CFAFF), Senior Gift Basket Drive, Chicago Navy Pier’s Children’s museum Passport to the Philippine Series. Among its partner charities are the Pilipino American Social Services (PASS), Filipino American Community Health Initiative of Chicago (FACHIC), and Gawad Kalinga (GK).
For information on sponsorship, if you have  a group that wants to perform, or  to participate as an adobo entrant, contact Edgar Jimenez at Edgar@fan-chicago.org. To participate or volunteer, please contact Glenda Terrado at gterrado@gk1world.com or call 815-212-1299.

Free legal consultations at Adobofest
Immigration Attorney Mary Carmen Madrid-Crost of Madrid Crost Law Group will set up a booth at the Adobofest on Sept. 17 to provide free 15-minute legal consultations.
These complimentary consultations are being given to the community to thank them for allowing Madrid Crost Law Group to serve them for 15 years. The Adobofest is located at the LaBagh Woods at Groves 2 & 4 from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.•

Family & senior health fair 2011, Sept. 10

The Family and Senior Health Fair 2011, sponsored by IL Secretary of State Jesse White, will offer services and programs to persons with disabilities, Illinois Citizens and veterans on Sat., Sept. 10.  The Health Fair is located at the Thorek Memorial Hospital, 850 W. Irving Park Road, Chicago 60613 from 10 am to 3 pm and is hosted by the Secretary of State Asian American Advisory Council.
Services offered at the health fair by the IL Secretary of State office include Driver’s License and State ID Card renewal, replacement and corrections. State ID Cards for those 65 years of age or older is free if proper identification is provided.  Vehicle stickers can be purchased as well. For those who have acquired a first time State ID, proper original identification is required such as a US Passport, US Birth Certificate, Social Security card, or Proof of residence. Seniors aged 75 years of age or older will not be able to renew their Driver’s License at the health fair because of a required road test.
In addition to that, the health fair will offer information on alternative medicine, cancer prevention, diet and nutrition, stroke prevention, and cancer prevention.  Activities for kids will be provided such as face painting, balloons, games, jumping tents and more. For more information, contact Dr. Rufino Crisostomo, Event Chair, at 312-402-4191.•

Re-dedication of Dr. Jose Rizal Avenue, Sept.10

In commemoration of Dr. Rizal’s 150th birth anniversary, The Philippine Consulate General in collaboration with the Knights of Rizal (KOR) and the Filipino American Council of Greater Chicago (FACC) is inviting the Fil-Am community to the re-dedication ceremony of Dr. Jose Rizal Avenue (honorary name) located at Irving Park Road, Chicago, Il from Block 1300W to Block 1400W on Sat., Sept. 10 at 11 a.m.
In attendance during the ceremony will be Congressman Mike Quigley of the 5th District of Illinoi s (D-IL) and Alderman Ameya Pawar representing 47th Ward of Chicago.
After the ceremony, Congressman Quigley and Alderman Pawar will meet with their Fil-Am constituents at the Rizal Heritage Center, 1332 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60613 to further discuss becoming involved in community events and other issues. For more information, contact Mr. Berth Salvador, Cultural Officer at 312-332-6458 Ext. 14.

5th annual community health Fair, Sept. 25

Free health screenings services will be provided to the public by the Filipino American Community Health Initiative of Chicago (FACHIC) and the Filipino American Council of Greater Chicago (FACC) Volunteer Health Services on Sat., Sept. 25 from 9 a.m. -1 p.m. The various health screenings offered will be for blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, dental care, nutrition podiatry, hearing, vision and many more.
In addition to the screenings they  will offer service referrals and information to families. The health fair will be held at the Rizal Center, 1332 W. Irving Park Rd. in Chicago.  This event serves nearly 300 people each year. For questions, call Dr. Nitoy Crisostomo at 312-402-4191.

Pappas: Second installment property taxes tentatively due first week of November

Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas said Aug. 25 that the Second Installment of the 2010 property taxes will be tentatively due the first week of November. The official due date will be determined after calculations concerning property values and tax rates are finalized by the Cook County Assessor and the Cook County Clerk’s office.
Once the bills are mailed, property owners can pay online at cookcountytreasurer.com, at any Chase Bank, by mail, or in person at the Cook County Treasurer’s Office located downtown.  Partial payments are accepted.
Property owners can visit the website and enter their 14-digit Property Index Number (PIN) to see if they are paid in full or to make a payment on any outstanding balance. The website will also show if previous payments were recorded properly, appropriate exemptions were received and a refund is owed.
Taxpayers can call 312.443.5100 for information in English, Polish and Spanish. (Press Release) •

Local publishers donate FAMOUS funds

Four publishers-directors of the Filipino American Media Organization-US Inc. (FAMOUS) formally disbanded their press group with their remaining contributions to five non-profit groups using the FAMOUS funds amounting to $4,028.29.
Alejandro Cirera of the Filipino American Community Builder, Orlando Bernardino of The Philippine Weekly, Mariano A. Santos of PINOY Newsmagazine, and Veronica Leighton of Via Times/CPRTV had passed a resolution to disband their group and donate the fund funds equally to the recipients of their choices.
Cirera gave his share to Filipino American Network (FAN) and AFIRE, both Chicago-based organizations. Bernardino and Leighton donated their shares to GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc. and ABS-CBN Foundation, International. Santos gave his share to Gawad Kalinga USA Foundation. FAMOUS President Romy Sager and Treasurer Josie Cirera signed off the checks.•

Memphis in May International Festival honors the Philippines in 2012
The officials of the Memphis in May International Festival in Memphis, Tennessee announced that the Philippines has been selected as the honored country in the 2012 Memphis in May International Festival.
Memphis in May International Festival is a month-long celebration of local and international color, customs, cuisines and culture. The non-profit, community-based organization hosts the city’s largest events – the Beale Street Music Festival, May 4-6, 2012; International Week Salute to the Philippines, May 7-12, 2012; the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, May 17-17, 2012; and the Sunset Symphony, May 26, 2012. Memphis in May also produces extensive education, international and economic programs.
For more information about the 2012 celebration, event dates or other information about the Memphis in May International Festival call (901) 525-4611 or visit the website at www.memphisinmay.org. •

MJCN Annual Alumni Service, Sept. 25

The Mary Johnston School of Nursing Alumni Association annual service will be held on Sunday at the St. John’s United Methodist Church, 1100 Ontario St., Oak Park, Illinois 60302. For more information, call Rev. Reul Talapian, 708-386-5882.

Christmas Show outting to Missouri, Nov. 11-13

An outing to Branson, Missouri is being planned for Nov. 11-13 (Friday-Sunday) for “Branson’s spectacular Christmas Shows.”  Field trip participants will enjoy colorful Christmas shows and live theater and some of the shows include “Twelve Irish Tenors,” “Andy Williams Christmas Show” and “Osmond Brothers.”
The trip will be an 8-1/2 hour drive. Participants are encouraged to bring their own snacks but part of the outing fee will cover sandwich, snack/chips and pop during the field trip.  The field trip fee per person is $475 which will include A) a charter bus for 3 days back and forth which will be used to travel to theatres and restaurants (worth $100), B) 3 Luncheons and 2 dinners (worth $50), C) A 2 Night stay at Gazebo Inn (worth $90), D) 6 Best Christmas Shows in Branson ($230 worth group rate), and E) Bus driver tips (worth $5).
The departure for the field trip will be at the Philippine American Cultural Foundation, 3 N 466 Lombard Rd., Addison, IL 60101 on the evening of Nov. 11 (Friday) at 12:15 a.m. The charter bus will depart at 1:00 a.m. and arrive at Branson, Missouri at 11:00 a.m. Check in will be at the Gazebo Inn.
To make a reservation, call Margie Boerema at 630-993-4885 or Adeline Fajardo at 630-886-0701. The field trip fee must be pre-paid by Oct. 15. Net proceeds from this trip will be used for gift giving during the Christmas in 2012 for the poorest of the poor including the residents of the Gawad Kalinga village in Nueva Ecija.•

The Family and Senior Health Fair 2011, sponsored by IL Secretary of State Jesse White, will offer services and programs to persons with disabilities, Illinois Citizens and veterans on Sat., Sept. 10.  The Health Fair is located at the Thorek Memorial Hospital, 850 W. Irving Park Road, Chicago 60613 from 10 am to 3 pm and is hosted by the Secretary of State Asian American Advisory Council.
Services offered at the health fair by the IL Secretary of State office include Driver’s License and State ID Card renewal, replacement and corrections. State ID Cards for those 65 years of age or older is free if proper identification is provided.  Vehicle stickers can be purchased as well. For those who have acquired a first time State ID, proper original identification is required such as a US Passport, US Birth Certificate, Social Security card, or Proof of residence. Seniors aged 75 years of age or older will not be able to renew their Driver’s License at the health fair because of a required road test.
In addition to that, the health fair will offer information on alternative medicine, cancer prevention, diet and nutrition, stroke prevention, and cancer prevention.  Activities for kids will be provided such as face painting, balloons, games, jumping tents and more. For more information, contact Dr. Rufino Crisostomo, Event Chair, at 312-402-4191.•

OCA-Greater Chicago offering scholarships

Ten scholarships, each worth $2,500, are being offered by the Organization of Chinese Americans (OCA) to Asian American students in the Chicagoland area who are entering their first year of college during the Fall 2011 season.
The deadline for the OCA-Greater Chicago Scholarship is Mon., Aug.15,  at 11:59 p.m Central time. No exceptions will be made.
Eligible applicants must be a permanent resident of the Chicagoland metropolitan area,  be a permanent resident or citizen of the US, currently a high school senior identified as an Asian, have a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or above (on a 4.0 scale), demonstrate financial need, and have a background and intent of community service.
Documents required for the scholarship application are a resume, essay, unofficial high school transcript, acceptance letter to the college/university the student will be attending, one-year total cost of attending the college, student aid report (SAR), statement of financial need, and a recommendation letter from a teacher or community member.
For a descriptive list of each  scholarship category, visit http://www.ocanational.org/index.php. For questions about the scholarships, e-mail ocachicago@yahoo.com.•

4th annual Adobofest taste-off, Sept. 17

The annual Adobofest festival is a taste-off of various adobo entrees and offers live performances and children’s games. This year, the Adobofest will be held at the Labagh Woods, Grove #2 and #4 on Sat., Sept. 17 from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. A select group of judges will decide on the winning adobo entrée.
A small donation of $8 per attendee allows a sample of each adobo entrée. Guests are encouraged to bring their own food and drink. Free rice and ice will be provided for up to 500 attendees. New activities offered this year are the “Pandesal eating contest for adults” and “Polvoron eating contest for children.”
The Filipino American Network (FAN) started the Adobofest four years ago for the purpose of raising funds for FAN’s current programs, partner charities and the festival itself. FAN’s existing programs are the Chicago Filipino American Film Festival (CFAFF), Senior Gift Basket Drive, Chicago Navy Pier’s Children’s museum Passport to the Philippine Series. Among its partner charities are the Pilipino American Social Services (PASS), Filipino American Community Health Initiative of Chicago (FACHIC), and Gawad Kalinga (GK).
For information on sponsorship, if you have  a group that wants to perform, or  to participate as an adobo entrant, e-mail Edgar Jimenez at Edgar@fan-chicago.org.•

Research on civic and community engagement of Filipinos in Chicago

The Philippine Consulate General in Chicago would like to announce that Dr. Anna Guevarra of the Department of Sociology, University of Illinois at Chicago, is conducting a research project that seeks to understand the issues that concern the Filipinos in Chicago and the factors that influence their civic and community engagement.  The prospective participants (who are Filipinos 18 years or older and who live in the Chicago area) will take part in one interactive and creative workshop where they will share their stories on topics like immigration, employment, health care, family and education.  The workshops, which will last for 2 ½ hours, are strictly confidential.
For further information about the research project, please get in touch with Dr. Anna Guevarra through her e-mail address at guevarra@uic.edu or telephone number (415) 613-8845.• (Press Release)

Philippine Madrigal Singers: The Great American Tour

The University of the Philippines Alumni Association of Greater Chicago will present  “The Philippine Madrigal Singers ” who will be performing in Chicago on Sat., Sept. 10 from 4-6 p.m. Tickets to the show are $35 to $45 dollars and the venue will be at the Copernicus Theater, 5216 W. Lawrence Ave. in Chicago. For more information, call 773-910-9072 or send an e-mail to philippinemadrigals2011@gmail.com.

FACHIC joints program to combat Medicare fraud

The Filipino American Community Health Initiative in Chicago (FACHIC) is a participating agency in the Medicare Fraud Project led by the Coalition of Limited English Speaking Elderly in the Chicago area.
FACHIC advises not to give your Social Security, Medicare or Medicaid numbers or card to someone you don’t know, especially someone who calls on the phone or comes to the door. Legitimate health care providers will not market their services over the phone or door to door
The Filipino American Community Health Initiative of Chicago (FACHIC) is a collaborative of community, health professional, and academic leaders united to address Filipino health issues in the Chicago area.  The mission of FACHIC is to increase awareness of Filipino health disparities and to implement health interventions and educational programming to improve the health status of the Filipino community.  FACHIC is a 501(c)(3) Illinois nonprofit organization.  All programs and services are free and available to all.  For more information, visit http://www.fachic.org.• (Press Release)

Activities for 150th Birth Anniversary of Rizal

Children’s Stories & Crafts, Aug. 6 & 13
Storytellers will present on Sat., Aug. 6  at 2 p.m. well-loved myths and tales from the Philippines through “Favorite Tales from the Philippines: A Celebration of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal” at the Chicago Public Library, McKinley Park, 1915 W. 35th St., Chicago, IL 60609.
Another “Favorite Tales from the Philippines” session will be presented on Aug. 13 at 2 p.m. at the Chicago Public Library, Lozano  1805 S. Loomis Street, Chicago, IL 60608.

Visual Art Exhibits, Aug. 13-24
Exhibits by Filipino artists Fred de Asis, Paul Balan, Willi Buhay, Eve Red Buhay (ERBU), Bueno Silva, Fabie De Silva and other artists will be displayed at the Richard J. Daley Civic Center, 50 W. Washington Chicago, IL 60602 on Aug. 13-14 from 8 a.m. -5:30 p.m.

Cultural Presentation, Aug. 22
A music and dance program featuring Filipino folkdances and music will be presented on Mon., Aug. 22 at 12 noon at the Daley Plaza under the Picasso, 50 W. Washington Chicago, IL 60602. These dances are used in rituals, courtships and festivals, which depict the people’s rich culture, customs and traditions.

Rizal’s Sweet Stranger The Musical, (Untold Stories of Josephine Bracken)

Dr. Jose Rizal was born on June 19, 1861 in Calamba, Laguna. He was a multifaceted intellectual, an award winning poet and writer, a polyglot, a scientist, a Doctor of Medicine specializing in Ophthalmology. But of all his passions and pursuits, the National Hero of the Philippines is best remembered in history, primarily, as a political activist whose writings inspired the Philippine revolution which ultimately led to his martyrdom by Spanish colonial authorities.  As a romantic, Rizal had many equally-statured loves but found his heart in the bosom of a common woman, an orphan who was rumored to be a whore and allegedly a spy for the Spanish friars.
As the highlight of the year-long celebration of Dr. Jose Rizal’s 150th birthday, SamaSama Project  and Circa-Pintig presents a world premiere musical that shows a glimpse of his personal life with his foreign (Irish Hong Kong) born wife, Josephine Bracken. Rizal’s Sweet Stranger the Musical (Untold Stories of Josephine Bracken) is a contemporary musical born of a collaborative montage of the 2009 Carlos Palanca Award Winner for a Full-length Play, Miss Dulce Extranjera, by Sir Anril P. Tiatco as well as Isagani Cruz’s Josephine and extrapolations of other historical texts and visual documents set to music by SamaSama Project’s very own Baron Lloyd Cabalona, music by Dr. Cleofe Guangko Casambre  and William Elvin Manzano, and concept and  direction by Dr. Anton Juan, Jr.
Toni Gomez (Josephine Bracken) and Ariel Dayanghirang (Jose Rizal) leads the cast including Elizabeth Tuazon (Bracken alternate) and featuring Ms. Lani Misalucha as Inang Bayan.
SamaSamaProject’s Lee Maningas, Josue Torres, Ran Sevilla, Louella Cabalona and Baron Cabalona will be setting the play to music along with Emilio Nicolasin on Kulintang and Vice Velarde as Choir Director.
Rizal’s Sweet Stranger the Musical will be presented on Sept 23 (Friday) at 7:30pm and 24 at 2pm and 7pm  at the St. Scholastica Academy Theater, 7416 N Ridge Blvd Chicago, IL 60645.
Tickets are at $25, 45, 75 and 100 and VIP tickets for $120 which includes a gala night reception on Sept 24 at 6pm.For tickets or more information, contact the following ticket outlets: Lou 708-528-6321, Baron 312-593-5154, Lakhi 224-538-1471. You can also purchase your tickets at CircaPintig.org and SamaSamaProject.com or e-mail info@circapintig.org.

Standing up during the national anthem is (left to right) Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Dr. Edward E. Hernaez, PIWC 2011 Chairman, Dr. Nida Hernaez, US Congressman Randy Hultgren and Mrs. Brenda Stevens, PIWC Chairperson-elect.

The gala dinner ball of the Philippine Independence Week Committee June 25 capped the 113th year anniversary of the declaration of Philippine Independence in the Chicago area.  The PIWC started in 1975 and it is the oldest of the four groups that put up annual celebrations.
The PIWC integrated in its cultural presentation the marking of the 150th birthday of the Philippine National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. Three messages were delivered before the audience of no fewer than 600 attendees at Hyatt Regency Hotel in Rosemont.
Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle gave tribute to the active participation of the Filipino Americans in ethnic diversity affairs of the area. US Congressman Randy Hultgren (14th Dist.) emphasized the long cooperation between the US and the Philippines while ConGen Leo H. Lim praised the continued humanitarian works that the group has undertaken.
PIWC Chairman Dr. Edward E. Hernaez highlighted the contribution of Dr. Rizal in the fight for Philippine freedom from Spanish colonialism and emphasized the call of the National Hero for Filipinos to continue in nourishing the roots of love for their homeland.
The coronation of the beauty queens took the center stage of the nights activities. Crowned to reign PIWC queen for the ensuing year are Mrs. Philippine Jasmine Sinio, Miss Philippines Aprelle Engracia, Mrs. Illinois Jovy Sirriani, Miss Teen Philippines Anne Margaret Hernaez, Mrs. Chicago Jane Cannon and Miss Little Philippines Marie Javate. The beauty contest has consistently been the primary source of the funds used by the PIWC to help various charitable organizations.
PIWC has also sponsored the only essay writing on Dr. Jose Rizal contest participated by area High School students.  Essay Chair person Jo Wee Sit awarded  Justin Marquez the first prize of $250 donated by Mariano Santos, Commander of the Knights of Rizal, Malaya Chapter—the group that co-sponsored this year’s special event as part of the sesquiscentennial celebration of Rizal’s birthday.
PIWC has also sponsored a June 12 community picnic and motorcade, and participated in the Chicago flag ceremony at Daley Plaza and senior citizen reception. The incoming PIWC chair is Brenda Stevens also was in-charge of the dinner ball.
“This year’s activities went smoothly and I thank the different committee chairpersons for their leadership and dedication,” Dr. Henries said in an interview. An appreciation night is planned Friday, July 7 at Lexington House in Hickory Hills. •

Rizal Monument June 19 event survives bad weather, whiny talk

Consul General Leo H. Lim warned of the impending foul weather, so the Philippine National Anthem was expeditiously sung.  The ConGen also said he was happy to see untattered flags of the US and of the Philippines flying. Aside from consular officials,  representatives of the Knights of Rizal, NaFFAA and a group that tagged itself as Rizal Monument Foundation brought their floral offerings.
The Torres clan, identifying themselves as descendants of Rizal residing in the area, were able to join the tail-end of the brief ritual but not too late for Cornelio Natividad’s tirades against a what he derisively referred to as a “tabloid.”
This newsmagazine in its “Pinoy Insider” column called for the proper maintenance of the Rizal Monument at Chicago’s Margate Park a couple of weeks before the June 19 ceremony.
As of June 4, the statue was overcome by oxidation, the flags were torn and the third flag pole was still not replaced nine years after it was stolen. It was pointed out in the article that an amount of no less than $20,000 was available solely for the maintenance of the monument.
Members of the Knights of Rizal who used to be involved in the cleaning and repair of the statue passed a resolution to include community organizations involved in the construction of the pedestal  12 years ago in the proper maintenance and disbursement of the remaining funds.
Natividad, who ignored the appeal, continues to take charge solely of the funds and lashed back at PINOY for being divisive and inaccurate during his remarks last June 19.
He also announced that he took charge of sending 15 boxes of books to the Philippines.
Media representatives elicit a response after the ceremony from PINOY editor, Mariano Santos who was present at the wreath-laying.
Santos said, “The weeds were pulled out, the grass is partially cut, a foundation for the missing flag pole is in the works, new flags are flying—thanks to PINOY’s urgent call for these things to be done two weeks ago.  There are other issues unresolved—about re-polishing the oxidized statue and proper accounting of the money donated by well-meaning community members. PINOY advocates proper accountability—otherwise  it begets division.
“It is sad that Mr. Natividad has chosen the foot of the statue on Rizal’s 150th birthday to unleash his tirades.  Dr. Rizal deserved better honoring. He could have avoided all that whining if he had only done the right things from the outset.  While we encourage reading, he should make it clear that the money meant for the monument‘s maintenance was not used for those 15 boxes of books he sent back home.”
A simple breakfast reception prepared by the Knights of Rizal and a kite flown by Fred de Asis capped the rainy morning event.•

“Rizal’s US Travel” at July 7th event

In a continuing series of events marking the 150th birthday of the Philippine National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, the Instituto Cervantes of Chicago will host a lecture on the “Travel of Rizal in the US” on Thursday, July 7, 5:30 to 7 pm at its auditorium at 31 W. Ohio Street, Chicago.
Dr. Virgilio Pilapil of the Lincolnland Chapter of the Order of the Knights of Rizal is the guest lecturer. Co-sponsoring the event are the Filipino American National Historical Society of the Midwest and the Philippine Consulate General. An exhibit of the Fran Alayu’s Collection of Filipinos in Chicago celebrating Rizal Day will also be featured. Admission is free.
In a June 18 Rizal lecture at the Newberry Library , a descendant of Rizal, Dr. Ramon Lopez presented an extensive argument supporting his belief that the National Hero never retracted from his writings exposing the corrupting of the friars during  the Spanish regime in the Philippines.
The presentation just like the one he delivered on Rizal’s ideals at the Chicago Public Library last May 11 will be posted in the website by the Consular offices. For details of the July 7 event, call 312-729-1444 or call Berth Salvador at the Consulate, 312-332-6458.
“Fili” now available in Penguin edition Penguin Classics Publishing hosted in New York Philippine Cosulate June 16 the launching of the novel “El Filibusterismo,” in time for the 150th birth anniversary of its author, Philippine National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal.
“El Filibusterismo” is the second Rizal novel to be republished by Penguin Classics, one of the largest publishers in the world. Elda Rotor, the editorial director of Penguin Classics, is a Filipina-American.
“El Filibusterismo” is a sequel to Rizal’s first novel, the “Noli Me Tangere,” which was republished by Penguin Classics five years ago. Both were translated  from Spanish to English for the Penguin Classics version  by American Harold Augenbraum.
Those who delivered speeches during the launching were New York’s Filipino consul general Mario L. De Leon Jr. as well as representatives of the New York chapter of the Knights of Rizal and Collaborative Opportunities for Raising Empowerment (CORE), a group of young Filipino professionals in New York. •

Dagupan City Club USA picnic, July 17

The Dagupan City Club USA will hold their annual picnic at the Bunker’s Hill on Caldwell Ave. in Chicago at Grove No. 3 on Sunday, July 17 at 12 noon.
There will be games for the kids and a raffle. Guests can enjoy pizza courtesy of Domino’s Pizza owners Randy & Lea Good located on Harlem Ave.•

Chicago Juzz Danz Annual picnic & Dinner-Dance, July 24 &29

The Chicago Juzz Danz (CJD) organization is having a picnic at the Proesel Park, 7001 N. Kostner Ave., Lincolnwood, IL from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. on Sunday, July 24, according to CDJ President Ed Cabanayan. There will be non-stop dancing, free admission and free food.
Then, on July 29, the Chicago Juzz Danz organization will hold its dinner dance and its theme is “The Seventies” at the Lone Tree Manor Banquets, 7730 N. Milwaukee Ave., Niles, IL. The music will be provided by Muiktraks with DJ Eddie C. •

Activities commemorating the Rizal Sesquiscentennial at the Instituto Cervantes, 31 W. Ohio St., Chicago, IL 60654

Rizal Discussion Series, July 7

There will be a discussion  on July 7 titled “Rizal’s Travel to the U.S.A.:What’s the Big Deal?”at 5:30 p.m.

Film Showing-Bayaning Third World, July 12

The Filipino American Network (FAN) is sponsoring the film showing of Bayaning Third World on July 12 at 6 p.m.

Photo & Art Exhibit of Dr. Rizal, July 7-16

An exhibit of photos commemorating Rizal Day in Chicago will be on display including works by Filipino artist Fred de Asis. Also Ancient Filipino Art (Kut-Kut & Baybayin) will be presented from July 7-16 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

International Book Launching of  “Remembering Rizal, July 16

The book launching on July 16 at 6 p.m. will include refreshments, book sales, a signing and readings from “Remembering Rizal.”

Cultural presentation, July 16

A cultural presentation by Sama-Sama Project and Hawak Kamay of the Philippine American Cultural Foundation (PACF) will be held on July 16 at 6 p.m. For more info, call Berth Salvador at 312-332-6458, ext. 14. •

Additional activities commemorating Rizal sesquiscentennial

Children’s Stories & Crafts, July 9
Storytellers will present  “Favorite Tales from the Philippines: A Celebration of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Dr. Rizal.” It will include well-loved myths and tales from the Philippines told to children at 11 a.m at the Chicago Public Library at Brighton Park, 4314 S. Archer Ave., Chicago, IL 60632.

Family festival, July 23 & 24
A family festival consisting of cultural performances, storytelling/ craft making, art workshop and Philippine Martial Arts and Games is available on Sat. & Sun., July 23 & 24 at the Millenium Park Chase Promenade North, 201, E. Randolph St. (between Michigan Ave. and Columbus Ave.) in Chicago from 10 a.m. -3 p.m. •

Aerosend Update

Aerosend  has been able to get all of its containers out from Philippine Customs. While it is true that many companies in the balikbayan box industry have folded, have had their containers abandoned, or some to the point of auction, We have  maintained our responsibility to our shippers. We has not given up. We have taken the responsible way of putting our company on hold while we address our funding problems. Many of our branches disagreed when we did this because it was a source of income and a source of how we can cover our deficit. We saw it as digging ourselves a deeper hole. We stopped the pick up and shipment of personal effects and we announced this through newspapers and our website in first week of April 2011. We had to find a different way of funding the containers that arrived already and for those that were still arriving. Out of 20 containers, our finances only had up to 10 while the other 5 were brought out by personal funds of incorporators of Aerosend. Still, we did not give up as we continuously tried to find means and ways to be able to pay for the daily increasing charges of the other 5 remaining containers that were stuck in Philippine Customs. Finally, last week, we were able to get the 4 out and 1 more left that we hope to get out on sometime this week, if it is not out yet at the time of this email.
It is not true that we sold our company. We just simply asked for help because Aerosnd and its incorporators are really all spent both financially and emotionally. Jolly Forwarding was the company that stepped up for us. With regards to a few boxes that were coursed through Love Joy for Vismin last December, we have submitted and are seeking probable legal actions against her and Swift Cargo if they do not deliver the packages that have been paid by shippers already.
Jolly Forwarding USA is a newly established company based in Los Angeles with principals that have been in the door to door delivery and international forwarding business for more than 20 years.We asked their assistance and are convinced that Jolly’s expertise will satisfy the needs of our clientele. We take this opportunity to announce that all operational transactions (new bookings and box status check) moving forward be coordinated with Jolly Forwarding USA. Jolly is asking assistance form our shippers because each and every container were imposed with so much extra charges. Jolly will be contacting every shipper to inform them of this so that warehousing and part of demurrage charges can be covered. We are informing everyone of this so that everyone is aware of this update. They can be contacted via email at Jollyforwardingusa@aol.com or at 909-584-5098.
Aerosend thanks everyone for their patience and patronage. We are also very proud of our team, specially Delivery Philippines and Customer Service, who maintained professionalism despite the personal attacks by a few shippers or consignees and some from unfair blogs or reports by media. We hope that this is proof enough that at Aerosend, we do not hide because we are proud for we are an accountable and responsible company. Aerosend really hopes that everyone would realize how Aerosend has taken every effort to make sure of the scurity of the boxes as we defend our good name and good intentions. •

–Aerosend
Email: info@aerosend.com
Website: www.aerosend.com

(Press Release)

Dr. Edward Hernaez, Chairman of the Philippine Independence Week Committee (PIWC) disclosed

Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle

that the newly elected Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle has been invited to be the keynote speaker for his group’s dinner-ball event, Sat., June 25, 6 pm at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Rosemont.
Mrs. Preckwinkle won a landslide victory over then incumbent Todd Stroger and two other candidates riding on her platforms to reform the financially-strapped Cook County government.
Consul General Leo Herrera Lim is another guest speaker and is expected to highlight the significance of Philippine National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal’s 150th birthday.
The event also features the presentation of the Independence Day Queens. PIWC donates its proceeds to different charitable prospects including the seniors groups and medical missions.

Dual Citizenship Oathtaking, July 2

The University of Santo Tomas Medical Alumni Association of the Midwest  (USTMAA) is celebrating the UST’s quadricentennial anniversary with a four day convention from July 1-4.

During the convention on July 2, a dual citizenship  oathtaking will be offered at the Marriot Hotel Lincolnshire Resort in Illinois, 10 Marriot Drive, Lincolnshire, IL 60069.  If you would like your papers processed before arrival, then send them to the Philippine Consulate General in Chicago ahead of time. New Dual citizens will be inducted by Consul General Leo Herrera Lim.
Applications for dual citizenship may be processed on location. To process, four documents are required: 1) Philippine birth certificate or Old Philippine passport. 2) A marriage contract, if married. 3) A copy of Certificate of Naturalization or foreign passport. 4) Two 2 x 2 photographs, Blue background.
Documents required for minor children are 1) Birth certificate and 2) Foreign passport.
The fee is $50 in cash, money order or bank draft payable to Philippine Consulate General Chicago. For minors the fee is $25.
To apply for Retention or Re-Acquisition of Filipino Citizenship, required documents to bring are:1) application form. 2) Four (4) copies of the following:
a) duly accomplished Petition for Dual Citizenship form,
b) Philippine birth certificate,
c) Old Philippine Passport,
d) Marriage Contract indicating the Philippine citizenship of the applicant. Two (2) recent 2” x 2” colored photographs with white background showing the front view of the applicant; certificate of Naturalization
There are additional requirements for applicants with child beneficiary. For a child who is below eighteen (18) years of age (legitimate, illegitimate or adopted), three (3) copies of the following:
a)    Birth Certificate
b)    Foreign passport
c)    Adoption Decree duly authenticated by the Philippine Consulate General, if applicable
d)    Certificate of Naturalization, if name of the beneficiary is not included in the Certificate of Naturalization of the parents; and for qualified beneficiary/ries born in the U.S., download the Report of Birth from our website www.chicagopcg.com.
For more information, call the Philippine Consulate General in Chicago at 312-332-6458, Ext. 11 or 22 or visit their Web site at www.chicagopcg.com/dual.html.
(Press Release)

Minority-Women-Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Certification Workshop, June 23

Billions of Dollars in contracts are reserved exclusively for certified MWDBE businesses.  The Federal, State, and Local Governments awards contracts for goods and services every day to certified small businesses.  Corporate giants like Walmart, Boeing, Motorola, Advocate Health Care, and all the Fortune 500 companies have programs dedicated to supporting Small Businesses.
But, in order to even be considered, your company needs to be certified by a recognized government agency or entity.  The PACCGC can help you.
Join us for this extremely valuable workshop on how to get your business certified on June 23 at DeVry University, 3300 N. Campbell, Chicago, IL 60618 at 10 am. Registration begins at 9:30 am. The cost is $35.
We’ll go over the various government and private sector programs available, and provide you with an opportunity to use the Exclusive CERTIPRO™ Certification program in the computer lab.
You’ll also have the opportunity to meet with the numerous government and private sector purchasing agents who are looking to buy what your business is offering. •
For more information, visit paddgd.org or call 773-545-4330.
(PACCGC Press Release)

Independence Day Picnic, Labagh Woods, June 12

Three Philippine Independence Committees- The PIWC, the Kalayaan andt he PWC- have set the annual communty picnic at Chicago’s Labagh Woods, Grove 1 & 2, in Chicago on Sun., June 12 from 11 am to sunset.
The picnic is preceded by motorcades of the groups’ respectful beauty queens. Religious services, cultural events and games are featured.

June Activities celebrating 150th Birth Anniversary of Dr.  Jose Rizal

Storytelling for Children, June 4
Tales from the Philippines and favorite myths will be told to children and families at the Chicago Public Library on June 4 at 11 a.m.

Passport to the Philippines, June 9, 11, 12
A celebration of the Philippine Independence Day includes art, sights and sounds at the Children’s Museum’s Passport to the Philippines at Navy Pier, at 700 E. Grand Ave. in Chicago. On June 9, it will be  from 5:30-7:30 pm, on June 11, it will be from 11am-3 pm, and on the 12th it will also be from 11am-3 pm.

Flag Raising Ceremony, June 10
A celebration of the 113th Philippine Independence through the flag raising ceremony will be at the Daley Plaza located at 118 N. Clark St. in Chicago at 9 am. on Fri., June 10.
Annual Summer Picnic, June 19
The Filipino American Society of Central Illinois (FASCI) will display Rizal’s books and copies of letters to his family at the Veterans Park, 400-500 Block of Springfield Road, Springfield Road, East Peoria, IL 61611.

Filipiniana Exhibition and Lecture, June 18
Two lectures on Dr. Jose Rizal will be presented at 11 am on Sat., June 18 at the Newberry Library, 60 W. Walton St., in Chicago.
Dr. Ramon G. Lopez will lecture on “The Dr. Jose Rizal Retraction Issue Revisited: A Personal Viewpoint.” Megan Thomas will lecture on : Dr. Jose Rizal and the Words of Late Nineteenth-Century Filipino Intellectuals.”

Wreath Laying Ceremony, June 19
To honor Rizal’s 150th birth anniversary, there will be a wreath laying cermony and a kite flying. Fred de Asis will fly a giant saranggola on June 19 at 9 am at the Dr. Jose P. Rizal Monument, 4739 N. Marine Dr. in Chicago.

Spreading Rizal’s Message: Book Donation, June 19
Copies of the original manuscripts of Dr. Jose Rizal’s novels, Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo will be donated at the Rizal Heritage Center, 1332 W. Irving Park Rd., in Chicago, at 6 pm. There will also be a Rizal Photo exhibit. Also, there will be a KOR Malaya Chapter presentation of the playlet “Rizal in USA.”

Children’s Stories and Crafts, June 25
Favorite Tales from the Philippines will be presented to children and their families by storytellers at the Chicago Public Library at 11 am on St., June 25 that will charm children.

Mass, Awarding ceremony, June 25
A mass celebraing the 150th Birth Anniversary of Dr. Rizal will be at the Holy Name Cathedral, 735 N. State Street in Chicago on June 25 at 11 am.
Contestants of the PIWC essay contest will be awarded on this Saturday at the Hyatt Regency Hotel O’Hare.

Concert of Filipino Classic Songs, June 28
A concert of Kundiman songs which are Filipino art songs of romance, nostalgia and life in the countryside written by Filipino composers is presented on June 28 at 6 pm at the Chicago Public Library , Cincy Pritzker Auditorium, lower level, 400 State Street in Chicago.