Sister Guia Nieva Jambalos will turn 80 Next Week

Sister Guia during her Annual Family Visit here in the US enjoying the Sights and Sounds of the San Francisco Bay Area, 2016

My sister-in-law, Guia Nieva Jambalos, rc., younger sister of my wife Macrine, will celebrate her 80th Birthday this coming March 4 in the Philippines. More than 150 guests have been invited. Unfortunately, because of Macrine's health we will not be able to attend. However, joining the celebration will be Jean Jambalos Maeda, also younger sister of Macrine, a resident of Alameda, CA. Speaking of Jean: She is the most thoughtful and loving sister of Macrine. She visits or calls Macrine regularly. She is a Registered Licensed Nurse and have two adult daughters. The other day she visited us with a few Pinoy dishes from the Hercules Filipino Store. Thank you Jean for your visit, kindness and thoughtfulness. Have a safe trip to the Philippines.

From L to R: Sr Emma Garcia, Macrine, Sr Guia ( postulant), Mama Ellen Nieva Jambalos, Sr Tessie Soriano(RIP) and Dr Rudy Jao.

Sister Guia joined the Order of the Cenacle Sisters in the early 1960's in Warrenville, Illinois. As a Cenacle Sister, she is called to surrender her whole life to God, through a threefold mission: prayer, community and spiritual ministry.

She desires to be filled with the love of Jesus that the fire of her Spirit may, through her ministry, enkindle and deepen faith. This ministry may take the form of retreats, spiritual direction, adult faith formation and other spiritual ministries.

She just recently retired, plan on spending her retirement years in the Cenacle Retirement House in Quezon City as well as spending her summer days in the beach house in Amoingon, Boac, Marindque, Philippines.

Visit with Sister Guia in Warrenville, Illinois. 1963

Visit the following site for more information on the Order of the Cenacle in Asia: http://davidbkatague.blogspot.com/search?q=cenacle

Here's one of the many retreat seminar topics that Sister Guia had been giving to the community in Davao and Quezon City, Philippines.

Befriending the Community Within Us - "Psychosynthesis I" by Sr. Guia Jambalos rc
Date: August 22-24 (Fri.7.30 pm to Sun. 4 pm)
Venue: 47, Jurong West St 42

Description: This seminar focuses on the integration of the personal and transpersonal self through valuing time of darkness and of joy and enlightenment, using obstacles as steps for spiritual growth.

Psychosynthesis is a process for psychological and spiritual growth. It aims to evoke wholeness and the dawn of a new and wider frame of reference in the human psyche. Nothing is meaningful as long as we perceive only separate fragments of our reality. As soon as the fragments come together into a synthesis, a new entity emerges, whose nature we could not have foreseen by considering the fragments alone. So, the aims at an integration of all the potentials we have been gifted with by God. These gifts buried in our unconscious needs to be surfaced, for us to appreciate and led to gratitude for all that we have and still need to been given 100% potentials for greatness.
Contribution: $150

Sister Guia celebrated her Golden Jubilee with the Cenacle in March 2013. Read the homily at:

http://ingeniumschool.org/the-glory-of-god-in-us/


Here's an article on Sr Guia involvement with the free elections( Corazon Aquino vs Ferdinand Marcos, 1986) in the Philippines:

http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/1988-04-30/features/8801260867_1_philippines-sisters-retreat-ministry

Happy, Happy Birthday, Sister Guia. May the Lord Guide You, Always, Kuya Dave and Manang!

A Welcome Visit from the Alex Chalfin Family and their Tesla Model S Electric Car

The Tesla Model S in our neighborhood.

Yesterday, we had a nice but a short visit from Alex and Elaine Chalfin and their two kids, Wesley and Samantha. Elaine (Lanie) is Macrine 's niece, the oldest daughter of Pepot (Fe) Jambalos. They were on their way to visit a friend in Folsom. Since Folsom is only 5 minutes away, they decided to visit us. They brought with them my favorite dish ( cooked by Merlet)-Chicken Adobo Sa Gata( Coconut milk). Again thanks a million, Merlet, Chalfin Family for the dish.

While Lanie was visiting Macrine, I ask Alex about Lanie's electric car-Tesla Model S, 2013. ( see photo above). He asked me If I have ever ridden or drove an electric car. I said no, so Alex drove me around the neighborhood for 5 minutes. It was the smoothest and quietest ride I have experience in my life. The car made me feel like a millioneer. I did some Internet search on this car and here a summary for your information.
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2013 Tesla Model S Overview: The Model S is powered by an electric motor, and test drivers are amazed by its responsive nature and ample power. A single-speed transmission is standard. The EPA reports that the 2013 Tesla Model S can go 208 miles on a charge with a 60 kWh battery pack, which is exceptional for an electric vehicle. Still, the Model S’ 94/97 mpg equivalent isn’t quite as good as the fuel economy equivalent ratings of less expensive electric vehicles, like the Mitsubishi i-MiEV and Ford Focus Electric. Test drivers write that the Model S’ precise steering and athletic handling add to the exciting driving experience, and while some cars sacrifice ride quality for agility, the available air suspension keeps the Model S comfortable and composed over imperfect roads.

Many auto writers note that the 2013 Tesla Model S’ cabin is just as innovative as its powertrain. While one reviewer complains about wind noise in his test car, others gush about the 2013 Model S’ attractive, modern design and quality construction. Most auto writers say that the Model S’ standard five-seat cabin offers plenty of space in both rows. A pair of optional jump seats in the cargo area can increase seating capacity to seven, though test drivers write that these seats are only intended for small children. The automotive press agrees that the crown jewel of the interior is the vivid 17-inch touch-screen display, which they say is highly-customizable and easy to use.

The 2013 Tesla Model S comes with a backup camera, dual-zone automatic climate control and a seven-speaker stereo with Bluetooth phone and audio streaming and two USB ports. Optional features include a panoramic moonroof, an upgraded stereo and a tech package that includes a power liftgate, automatic keyless entry, navigation and a high-definition backup camera.

2013 Model S Price Increase
George Blankenship, Vice President, Worldwide Sales and Ownership Experience November 29, 2012

NEW PRICING FOR MODEL S

We originally unveiled the Model S in March 2009 with a base price of $57,400 ($49,900 after federal tax credits). Today, Model S is the most award-winning car of the year and the base price remains at $57,400, the same price set over three and a half years ago. During this same period of time most automotive companies have had at least three price increases and general inflation (CPI) has gone up 8.75 percent. A straight 8.75 percent CPI increase would now yield a base price for Model S of $62,400, an increase of $5,000. We are increasing prices only half that amount, giving Model S a new base price of $59,900 before federal tax credits.

Time for Some Violin and Piano Music-Sibelius Violin Concerto

The news of the passing of Macrine's first cousin ( Rene Elizalde Nieva) a couple of days ago caused a lot of turmoil in our household. For the last three days, Macrine kept on asking me when and what time is the wake. She wants to attend the funeral services. I told her its impossible since we are in the US and the service is in the Philippines. Today she finally calm down and realize our situation. With this in mind its about time to have some Piano and Violin Music! We dedicate this piece to Rene Elizalde Nieva! May you rest in Peace, Amen!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTZjuk7-3gs&list=RDiTZjuk7-3gs&t=745

2015 Heifetz Institute Artist-In-Residence Ji-Won Song performs a stunning rendition of the Violin Concerto in D minor, Op. 47 by Jean Sibelius, in a piano reduction featuring Heifetz faculty collaborative pianist Carlos Avila. Performed at a "Heifetz Sunday Matinee" concert at the 2015 Heifetz International Music Institute, located on the campus of Mary Baldwin College in Staunton, VA.

More Details: http://www.heifetzinstitute.org

Two Comments of this Performance:

1.labémolmineur : I don't think the point was to laugh at the end of her introduction. She was being serious, and Sibelius's tragedy should not be laughable. What a moving performance, from both violinist and pianist. I love that Ji-Won Song is sensitive (and humble) enough to allow the pianist to be a whole orchestra and that this is played intact, no cuts- an intense, continuous story, delivered by two equal artists.

2. elgatosucio : I dare to say this young girl is one the great one of this opening century. Perfect technique and pure passion. She makes the violin talk, scream and cry. Just sparks coming out of that instrument. Congratulations on the pianist too. They are both incredible musicians.

Notes about Sibelius from Wikipedia: Jean Sibelius was born Johan Julius Christian Sibelius on December 8 1865 and died on September 20, 1957 in Finland. He was a composer and violinist of the late Romantic and early-modern periods. He is widely recognized as his country's greatest composer and, through his music, is often credited with having helped Finland to develop a national identity during its struggle for independence from Russia.

The core of his oeuvre is his set of seven symphonies which, like his other major works, continue to be performed and recorded in his home country and internationally. His other best-known compositions are Finlandia, the Karelia Suite, Valse triste, the Violin Concerto, the choral symphony Kullervo, and The Swan of Tuonela (from the Lemminkäinen Suite).

Other works include pieces inspired by nature, Nordic mythology, and the Finnish national epic, the Kalevala, over a hundred songs for voice and piano, incidental music for numerous plays, the opera Jungfrun i tornet (The Maiden in the Tower), chamber music, piano music, Masonic ritual music, and 21 publications of choral music

Personal Note: Carlos( pianist)is Macrine's nephew-only son of Charro Jambalos-Macrine's youngest sister.

A Tribute to Rene Nieva-Macrine's First Cousin

Rene Nieva, Macrine's first cousin on her mother side of the Family (Nieva Clan of Marinduque) passed away yesterday after three weeks at the ICU in the Philippines. He was just like a younger brother to us. His life is filled with accomplishments as a writer, PR man, a loving husband, Father and Grand father. Attached are some of his personal and professional accomplishments and a couple of photographs of our family personal relationship with Rene and his family. We will missed you Rene, But I know You are in Peace Now! Macrine and I love you very much!!!
I can not stopped crying!

https://www.facebook.com/david.b.katague/videos/10206321560494258/

https://businessmirror.com.ph/author/renenieva/

http://www.perceptions-inc.com/profile/

http://www.perceptions-inc.com/sea-games

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YAgJWVrjGEc

http://chateaudumer.blogspot.com/2015/02/the-nieva-clan-of-marinduque-chapter-1.html

A Surprise Visit from Dinah, Ian and Sara DiCampli

Today we have a surprise visit from my oldest daughter Dinah- a resident of Oregon ( Portland area). She and a friend from Walnut Creek ( Tom) along with Ian(-Dinah's only son) and his girlfriend Sara from Roseville spent 2 hours with us enjoying Chinese lunch- courtesy of Dinah.

Ian and Sara DiCampli

Both Macrine and I are ecstatic of their visit specially Macrine who is suffering from Cabin fever. We had not been to our neighborhood Casino for the last three weeks-because we are scared of the Flu epidemic in our neighborhood.

The last couple of days Macrine had been suffering mild confusion a side effect of one of her medications for her Parkinson. She wants me to drive her to our beach house in Amoingon, Boac, Marinduque. Philippines.

However, after Dinah's visit Macrine's mood improved. She is now binging on the Sees Chocolate candies that Dinah gave her for her advance Valentine gift. Dinah and Ian: Thanks a million again for your visit, the Chinese lunch and the See's Candies.

Hope to see you soon!

What Do you Know about Minimalism?

Photo from Pinterest.com

My own curiosity of Minimalist art started about forty years ago, when I saw a just plain white painting on canvass exhibited on two Art museums in Kansas City, Missouri and Chicago, Illinois. Just recently, I admired a wall painted white that can be seen thru a bedroom sliding door of a relative vacation house in Boac, Marinduque, Philippines. There is nothing in the wall except your imagination. On the side of the wall is a small water fountain with the soothing sound of water drops dribbling and bubbling in the center of the Fountain.

So what is minimalism?

Here's a short paragraph from Wikipedia. For the history of the minimalist movement read the reference on the bottom of this page.

In visual arts, music, and other mediums, minimalism is a style that uses pared-down design elements. Minimalism began in post–World War II Western art, most strongly with American visual arts in the 1960s and early 1970s. Prominent artists associated with minimalism include Donald Judd, John McCracken, Agnes Martin, Dan Flavin, Robert Morris, Anne Truitt, and Frank Stella. It derives from the reductive aspects of modernism and is often interpreted as a reaction against abstract expressionism and a bridge to post minimal art practices.

Besides art there is a movement for minimalist architecture and Music. The following photo of the Bellarocca Resort in Marinduque is in my opinion an example of minimalism in architecture. Agree or Disagree? Comments anyone?

In minimalist architecture, design elements strive to convey the message of simplicity. The basic geometric forms, elements without decoration, simple materials and the repetitions of structures represent a sense of order and essential quality. The movement of natural light in buildings reveals simple and clean spaces

http://www.theartstory.org/movement-minimalism.htm

Have You Heard of Jose Antonio Vargas?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJH1IKqF8PA

Jose Antonio Vargas is a journalist, filmmaker, and immigration rights activist. Born in the Philippines and raised in the United States from the age of twelve, he was part of The Washington Post team that won the Pulitzer Prize for Breaking News Reporting in 2008 for coverage of the Virginia Tech shooting online and in print. Vargas also has worked for the San Francisco Chronicle, the Philadelphia Daily News, and The Huffington Post. He wrote, produced, and directed the autobiographical 2013 film, Documented, which CNN Films broadcast in June 2014.

In a June 2011 essay in The New York Times Magazine, Vargas revealed his status as an undocumented immigrant in an effort to promote dialogue about the immigration system in the U.S. and to advocate for the DREAM Act, which would provide children in similar circumstances with a path to citizenship. A year later, a day after the publication of his Time cover story about his continued uncertainty regarding his immigration status, the Obama administration announced it was halting the deportation of undocumented immigrants age 30 and under, who would be eligible for the DREAM Act. Vargas, who had just turned 31, did not qualify.

Vargas is the founder of Define American, a nonprofit organization intended to open up dialogue about the criteria people use to determine who is an American. He has said: "I am an American. I just don't have the right papers."
The following post is a summary of Jose Antonio's life story. DACA-Dreamers Act had been in the news for the last six months. Jose Antonio Vargas- a Filipino-American -an undocumented American life story initiated Obama Dreamers Act Law in 2012. Here's a video summarizing his story. *

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmz9cCF0KNE

Jose Antonio Vargas, an award-winning multimedia storyteller, is the founder of Define American, a campaign that seeks to elevate the conversation around immigration. Born in the Philippines, Vargas immigrated to the United States at age 12. Stunning the media and political circles and attracting world-wide coverage, Vargas wrote the groundbreaking essay, "My Life as an Undocumented Immigrant," for the New York Times Magazine in the summer of 2011. A year later, he was the author (and subject) of a cover story for TIME magazine headlined "We are Americans — just not legally."

* https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jose_Antonio_Vargas

Binging On an Award Winning TV Series-Shameless

I started watching this comedy drama last week. I am now in Season 3 and looking forward to be current ( Season 8) in the next few weeks. The show makes me cry and laugh. It has some nudity, vulgar language and a lot of sex scenes both hetero and homo. The lead actor and actress won several acting awards. In case you have not heard of this TV show, here's a summary from Wikipedia.

Shameless is an American comedy-drama television series developed by John Wells that debuted on Showtime on January 9, 2011. It is a remake of the British series of the same name created by Paul Abbott. The series features an ensemble cast, led by William H. Macy and Emmy Rossum. Set in the South Side of Chicago, the series is filmed in Los Angeles, with the exterior scenes shot in Chicago.

The series has been renewed for a ninth season, which will make it the longest-running original scripted series in Showtime's history

The series depicts the dysfunctional family of Frank Gallagher, a single father of six children. While he spends his days drunk or in search of misadventures, his kids learn to take care of themselves.

The show's producers sought to distinguish it from previous American working-class shows by highlighting how Frank's alcoholism affects his family. Paul Abbott, the show's creator, has said, "It's not My Name Is Earl or Roseanne. It's got a much graver level of poverty attached to it. It's not blue collar; it's no collar." When John Wells, the showrunner, began pitching the show, he had to fight efforts to place the show in the South or in a trailer park. He explained, "We have a comedic tradition of making fun of the people in those worlds. The reality is that these people aren't 'the other' – they're people who live four blocks down from you and two blocks over".

Tim Goodman of The Hollywood Reporter said that "Shameless is excellent, compelling television from the first moment. As long as it stays true to the roots of the original, it's going to be essential viewing". The show's first season score on Metacritic is a 66 of 100, which is a generally favorable review.

The second season score on Metacritic is a 76 of 100, indicating increasingly favorable reviews. Tom O'Neill of the Los Angeles Times reported on the Emmy buzz about Shameless, especially with respect to the performance of Emmy Rossum, stating "she didn't have much Emmy buzz after Shameless debuted in January, but that changed after she gave powerhouse turns in such episodes as 'But at Last Came a Knock'".

Buddy TV ranked Shameless #8 on its list of 2011's best new TV shows. Review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes gave the first season a 'fresh' rating of 74% based on 31 reviews, with the critical consensus "Shameless is a dark, urban dramedy that overcomes its leaps of logic thanks to fantastic casting, intriguing ambiance, and shock value." Seasons 2-5 each have a 100% rating as of January 27, 2015.

For more details on the widely nominated and award winning TV series read:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shameless_(U.S._TV_series)