Anjoy takes oath as new electronics and communications engineer
Anjoy (Andy Jr.) Gimpaya passed the ECE board exam last Oct 2009. Only 26% of more than 4000 examinees passed this exam, acknowledged as one the most difficult to date. Anjoy, a 2009 ECE graduate of the Ateneo de Manila University, passed this exam on first take.
The oath taking of new electronics and communications engineers was held at the SMEX Conventions Center, Mall of Asia, Manila on Dec 10, 2009.
Tiger Woods and Sex Addiction
After the “accident” that caused Tiger Woods and his luxury car to crash on a hydrant and a tree, the scandal about his promiscuity with women has hounded and disgraced the best golfer in town. His defenders are quick to point out sex addiction as the one to blame for Tiger’s marital problem. After all he has apologized for his extramarital escapades last week and he was silent thereafer.
There is little mention about morality now. People interested about Tiger's seemingly perfect life don’t want to allude on responsibility anymore----a reminder that liberalism has marginalized traditional thinking on righteousness.
Instead of shame, a string of women is proud to be called Tiger’s mistress. The 10th to come out in the open to claim a Tiger Woods' affair and ride on his popularity is another sexy porn star---39 year old Joslyn James who consider herself as Wood’s “fulltime” mistress.
TIGER'S WOMEN
1. Rachel Uchitel, 31, VIP hostess
2. Kalika Moquin, 27, club executive
3. Jamie Grubbs, reality TV star
4. Jamie Jungers, 26, cocktail waitress
5. Mindy Lawton, 33, waitress
6. Cori Rist, 31, Hooter
7. Holly Sampson, 36, porn star
8. Mystery waitress
9. Unidentified British TV star
10. Joslyn James, porn star
Source: MailOnline (12/09/09, Halzelton, L.)
(Photo Credit: AFP/ scanpix)
===============================================================
Norwegians think Barack Obama is rude for snubbing the traditional events for the Nobel Prize awards
In accepting the Nobel Prize for peace, Barack Obama travels to Oslo, Norway. But he cancelled some of the traditional events that go with the awarding, among them a snub to the invitation of Norway’s King to have lunch, a press conference, and a cancellation of a dinner of the Norwegian Nobel Peace Prize Committee.
“According to a poll published by the daily tabloid VG, 44% of Norwegians believe it was rude of Obama to cancel his scheduled lunch with King Harald, with only 34% saying they believe it was acceptable.”----Guardian.co.uk (12/09/09, Fouche, G; MackAskill, E.)
Without much success in peace promotion while the Afghan and Irag wars are raging, Obama gets the award which many think has become politicized and ill-deserved. The US president has no stellar accomplishment in international relations to make him deserving of the prize. Many peace protesters take note of the 30,000 American troops the awardee plans to deploy in Afghanistan ---a contradiction to the very essence of peace. (Photo Credit: enstarter) =0=
===============================================================
OLPDA's Christmas Party on December 19, 2009
The Our Lady of Penafrancia Devotee’s Association (OLPDA) headed by Boy Cabaero has scheduled its yearly Christmas Party on Saturday, December 19, 2009 at the Our Lady of Victorires Church in Jersey City, New Jersey City. A potluck to bring in food and drinks will be arranged for members and guests of the association.
Bicolanos in the tri-state area are cordially invited. (Photo Credit: Boy Cabaero)=0=
=============================================================
127 killed in Iraq bombings
In another wave of bombings in Irag, 127 died in blasts that took place within several minutes from each other. About 400 people were injured. Iraqi security forces were scouring the site of explosion particularly at the Baghdad Finance ministry and in a location close to the a police patrol in Doha on December 8, 2009.
The bombing is the worst after the October bombing which killed about 155 people in two car bomb incidents. The carnage brought ambulances and rescue workers to the scene. No one has claimed responsibility of the blood bath. Civilian and military officals worry that this round in violence can cause instability in the government before next year’s election. (Photo Credit: AP) =0=
============================================================
Arms cache found in massacre suspect's home
When the police and government soldiers were dispatched to investigate the house of Datu Unsay town Mayor Andal Ampatuan, Jr’s home, they found a cache of weapons. The raid was conducted after authorities found a cache of arms near the home of ARRM governor Zaldy Ampatuan, one of the main suspects in the Maguindanao Mssacre that killed at least 57 people. Hidden in shallow earth about 500 meters from the home of the governor’s mansion were ammunitions and weapons which could supply two battalions.
“In two shallow pits, soldiers of the 73rd Infantry Battalion found two anti-tank bazookas; four 60mm mortars; two 80mm mortars; a 90mm recoilless rifle; three M60 machine guns; a 57mm recoilless rifle; a Barrett sniper rifle; two Browning automatic rifles; a .50-cal. heavy machine gun; a 9mm pistol; seven .45 pistols; an Ultimax light machine gun; a Bushmaster carbine; a Heckler & Koch 11 light support machine gun; and thousands of rounds of ammunition for M16 rifles still in boxes marked “Arms Corporation of the Philippines,” with the October 2008 date of Manufacture stamped on them. “---Manila Standard (12/05/09, solmerin, F.S.; Requejo, R. E.)
Col. Leo Ferrer, of the Army’s 601st Brigade was surprised by the ammunition that was found. According to Ferrer, the Ampatuans have about 2,000 men in their private army. In comparison, the MILF have about 3,000 soldiers. (Photo Credit: flames of war) =0=
===========================================================
Climate change summit in Copenhagen brings more polluting carbon emission
In spite of the economic downturn that needs some form of austerity among delegates of the global warming conference in Copenhagen, those who will attend will display a measure of extravagance. The huge number of cars, limousines, and gas-guzzling private jets coming to the capital city of Denmark will produce polluting carbon dioxide---the agent that is blamed for the planet's warming.
According to Majken Friss Jorgensen, managing director of Copenhagen's biggest limousine business, her company has only twelve vehicles, but during the summit there will be 200. Together with other limousine companies, the number of vehicles is expected to reach more than 1,200. Of these, only 5 will be among the class of “non-polluting cars”---the electric or the hybrid.
In addition to the agents of pollution on the road, Danish airports are expecting 140 private jets to be used by the VIP delegates and guests.
“The airport says it is expecting up to 140 extra private jets during the peak period alone, so far over its capacity that the planes will have to fly off to regional airports – or to Sweden – to park, returning to Copenhagen to pick up their VIP passengers.
As well 15,000 delegates and officials, 5,000 journalists and 98 world leaders, the Danish capital will be blessed by the presence of Leonardo DiCaprio, Daryl Hannah, Helena Christensen, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Prince Charles. A Republican US senator, Jim Inhofe, is jetting in at the head of an anti-climate-change "Truth Squad." The top hotels – all fully booked at £650 a night – are readying their Climate Convention menus of (no doubt sustainable) scallops, foie gras and sculpted caviar wedges. “---Telegraph.co.uk (12/05/09, Gilligan, A.)
Whether this flashy summit will realize its goal of saving the planet is unclear. The strident controversies behind global warming are still raging. There is no unanimity if the observed climatic alteration is truly a man-made phenomenon or part of a cycle of planetary change. There are serious questions on the validity and veracity of certain climate data on which decisions have been based.
The doubts behind global warming have intensified as scientists have been accused of tampering data to influence policy and public opinion. An embarrassment to the global warming proponents, the fraud reports cast a bad shadow on the credibility and recommendations of the environmental scientists.(Photo Credit: chrismadden.co.uk) =0=
=============================================================
Russian nightclub death toll climbs to 112
The Lame Horse night club blaze thought to have been sparked by a wayward fireworks display on December 5, 2009 in Perm, Russia had now killed at least 112 people. rushed to hospitals for treatment of various injuries and burns. The last counted casualty died of severe burns in a Moscow hospital.
During the investigation the club owner Antoly Zak and the artistic director responsible for the pyrotechnics, including two men were arrested on orders of the Leninsky District Court. Officials said they have cited club-managers for safety violations in the past to no avail.
Eyewitnesses suspected criminal negligence as the cause of the blaze. Pres. Dmitry Medvedev called for a tighter laws and regulations in the handling of criminal liability in cases of a conflagration. Since Russian fire safety rules were not well-enforced, as many as 18,000 deaths annually were attributed to fires in the country. (Photo Credit: gypsygirl) =0=
===============================================================
$30 billion aid needed by poor countries to curb global warming
Just as the Copenhagen international conference on climate change is about to start, United Nations climate chief Yvo de Boer said an emergency $30 billion funding is needed by poor countries to help them deal with the effects of climate change. The funding which will largely come from rich donor-countries is endorsed by the European Union is needed to curb carbon emissions that are thought to be some experts to the main cause of global warming.
“Scientists say carbon gas emissions must be reduced globally in the next decade by 25 to 40 percent from 1990 levels to control rising temperatures. The European Union has pledged 20 percent cuts, and more if other nations agree.
China has proposed reducing its emissions by 45 percent from 2005 levels, while India has offered a 20 to 25 percent cut.”---VOA, (12/06/09) (Photo Credit: magazine.ucla.edu.)
Small and poor countries decry the fact that they bear the brunt of pollution that they are not largely responsible of. The aggressive move of rich countries to advance industrialization cause many parts of the world to suffer from pollutants brought by the destruction of the environment =0=
===============================================================
Medical and dental mission in Albay
About 200 indigent medical and dental patients were treated in a mercy mission conducted by Ako Bicol and the Armed Forces of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Concerns on Community Organizing for Development (ACCORD). The one day health mission was conducted by a team from the Municiapl Health Office MHO), 5th Regional Community Defense Group, Army reserve Command and the Philippine Army
at the Barangay Ilawod in Albay.
The civic organization Ako Bicol also extended its help to the village of Salvacion whose farmers and animal raisers benefited from a carabao deworming program initiated on December 2 to 4, 2009.
Projects like these are a big help to the impoverished residents who need periodic assistance only generosity and humanitarian care can give. (Photo Credit: Soot Goon) =0=
==============================================================
Changing the guidelines of mammography may increase breast cancer mortality
The US Preventive Task Force, a panel of experts, none of whom are oncologists, has recommended the following which has stirred much confusion and controversy:
1. Raise the age of first mammogram from 40 to 50 years old
2. Mammogram will be done every two years instead of every year
3. Stopping mammogram when a woman reaches 74 years
4. Patients and doctors may not do breast examinations
Mammography has been recognized as a vital tool in breast cancer detection. I believe a delay of 10 years before the first mammogram will miss cancer at an early stage when it is treatable with the best chance of survival. The panel thinks greater morbidity and mortality can be avoided if patients talk to their MDs on the cost-benefit assessment of the procedure. It is doubtful if this is true.
Those who advocated raising the age of taking mammograms ignored the successes in the fight of breast cancer which were achieved in last 10 to 20 years. About 15% of women in their 40’s are diagnosed with breast cancer from routine mammogram screenings. Since the use of mammograms in the early 90s there had been a 30% drop in mortality, about a third of which were women with ages 40 to 50. The procedure had been mainstay to early cancer diagnosis and treatment in this age group.
The change from a yearly mammogram to every two years will miss breast cancers at an early age. And halting the procedure after 74 years (at a time when longevity is getting longer,) can lead to more women dying of mammary tumors in their old age. The panel rules the number of patients falling in these categories is negligible and therefore can be ignored. Yet, in truth, looking at these "negligible" patients as expendable groups (not as individuals) is unfair and inhumane. What if it is you, your wife, mom, or sister who has the risk of having the disease?
Not recognizing the utility of breast examination to diagnose cancer goes against the grain of experience in medical practice. There are instances when during breast exams, patients are alerted of tumors that turned out to be cancers. Therefore, breast examination still plays a role in cancer detection.
I believe the lowering of the frequency of mammograms and the delay of conducting the routine procedure for women will adversely affect the gains in the fight against breast cancer. Women in ages 40-50 are the most productive and to preserve their life, they deserve a the best medical care.
Obviously, the new guidelines that are recommended are flawed. They come at a time when the pressure to lower the cost of medical services is among the hardest to tackle in the healthcare reform. Many doctors don’t agree with the recommendation of the US Preventive Task Force. Even the American Cancer Society and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology voice their objections to the proposed guidelines. =0=
==============================================================
Mrs. Celi Oracion celebrates 80th birthday
With gladness and thanks, Mrs. Celi Oracion, loving wife of Mr. Lossiette Oracion celebrated her 80th birthday at Torrance, California. She was feted by her dermatologist son Dr. Renato M. Oracion of Odessa, Texas, daughther-in-law Megs Oracion, and close friends including Drs. Estrella Azurin-Aguinaldo, Ray and Ma. Rhodora Gonzales. (Photo Credit: RMO)
Happy Birthday Mama Celi!
==================================================================
Gate crashers enter the White House
In the US presidential palace where visits of movie stars and celebrities have become quite common, Michaela Salehi and her husband Tareq, a couple among Viriginia’s horse-country set were able to come close to Pres. Barack Obama during a state dinner honoring Manmohan Singh, the Indian prime minister. They were able to attend the event without being the guest list.
The coming to the White House of the Salehis without invitation was an insult to the secret service which was supposed to be thorough in protecting the president and the seat of American power. USA is just lucky that the guys were not part of a terrorism network which bombs and kills people. What if the gate-crashers brought with them biologic agents, toxins and deadly chemicals?
Eerily and perhaps a warning, Tareq Salahi is someone from the American Task Force on Palestine, a group that lobbies for Palestinian causes. According to reports the attention-getting couple who had “wonderful” moments with Obama were responsible for India joining for the first time in America's Polo Cup at the National Mall in Washington on June 11 and 12. Many security experts see the gate-crashing incident as serious breakdown of security. (Photo Credits: Getty Images) =0=
==============================================================
Ferry sinking in Bangladesh brings 51 deaths
MV Coco, a passenger ferry with a capacity to carry 650 passengers capsized in Bangladesh on Friday, November 27, 2009 leaving at least 51 dead. The fatal accident occurred in Tetulia River near Nazirpur on Bhola Island, about 150 kilometers from the capital city of Dhaka. The overloaded boat with three decks and carrying 1,500 passengers keeled on its side, leaving panicked people to jump into the river.
Many of the dead were women and children. Authorities were seeking for more passengers who might have been trapped in the ill-fated ferry.. The accident coincided with Islamic holiday of Eid-al Adha. (Photo Credit: AP) =0=
=============================================================
Dubai money woes augur a new phase in the economic crisis?
As if to remind the world of the fragile economy, Dubai, the Middle East country with an ambitious agenda to grow financially was spooked by its inability to meet debt obligations.
Dubai’s debt at $80 billion (£48 billion) is enough to worry the market in spite of assurances given to investors by several banks. Dubai World, the state-owned corporation asked a halt on its interest payments, a moratorium of 6 months, because it cannot meet its payments. Affected by the recession, the millionaire’s paradise has suffered a slump in real estate after its extravagant spending on fancy skyscrapers.
“Fears of a dangerous new phase in the economic crisis swept around the globe yesterday as traders responded to the shock announcement that a debt-laden Dubai state corporation was unable to meet its interest bill.
Shares plunged, weak currencies were battered and more than £14 billion was wiped from the value of British banks on fears that they would be left nursing new losses.”---TimesOnline (11/26/09, Hosking, P; Robertson, D.)
The desert kingdom's money problems mirror the economic meltdown still pestering the United States and the rest of the world. Optimistic investors trumpet the tanking of the economy is over, but a double dip recession in 2010 is a real possibility in the interconnected business world.
There is high uncertainty in the market. In spite of instruments available (i.e. Dubai help from the United Arab Emirates,) confidence in the economy is low, leading many to speculate on how many more vulnerable countries will be mired in the crisis. As much as the lesson USA now faces, no country in the planet can rationally buy its way to properity. By borrowing or printing paper money and spending beyond one's capacity people will end up poor in the long haul. (Photo Credit; MailOnline) =0=
==============================================================
Miss Brazil is Miss Earth 2009
The 2009 Miss Earth beauty contest in Boracay Island, Philippines brought in a winner in Miss Larissa Ramos of Brazil who romped away with the crown and the cash prize.
Runner-ups in the pageant which promotes environmetalism, fights pollution, and spreads consciousness for the planet's preservation the planet are Miss Fire Alejandra Echeverria of Spain, Miss Air Sandra Seifert of the Philippines, and Miss Water Jessica Barboza of Venezuela. The top contenders for the Miss Earth title were selected from young participants from about 80 countries. (Photo Credits: Eric Ranodoc/ Reuters) =0=
==============================================================
Terrorist attack suspected in Russian train blast
The blast in the Russian passenger train which left a crater on the ground and killed at least 39 people and wounded more than 50 is alluded to be the workings of terrorism. In August 2007, a similar detonation suspected to be done by Chechen rebels and ultranationalist groups injured about 60 victims.
The Nevski Express was cruising between Moscow and St. Petersburg on Friday, November 27, when it was disabled by the violent explosion.
Four train cars out of 14 went out their tracks. Their mangled steel wreckage was shown in television. Emergency rescue teams rushed to the scene to assist the wounded victims and bring them to the hospital. Anti-terrorism experts were sent to the crash site to investigate the bloody incident. (Photo Credit: Pravda) =0=
===============================================================
Incredible aftermath of a massacre: 28 journalists among the dead
A list showing the names of the journalists who were massacred in Maguinadano Province on November 23, as compiled by GMANews.TV staff and the Center for International Law. The horrific incident, the worst ever in living memory, is shocking and disdainful. Twenty eight (28) had been confirmed to have died and one remained missing. Updated report puts the total death toll to 64. --- GMAnews.TV (11/27/09)
1. Ian Subang, Socsargen Today, General Santos City
2. Lea Dalmacio, Socsargen News, General Santos City
3. Gina De la Cruz, Saksi News, General Santos City
4. Maritess Cablitas, News Focus, General Santos City
5. Rosell Morales, News Focus, General Santos City
6. Henry Araneta, Radio DZRH, General Santos City
7. Neneng Montaño, Saksi News, General Santos City
8. Alejandro “Bong" Reblando, Manila Bulletin, General Santos City
9. Victor Nuñez, UNTV (senior correspondent), General Santos City
10. Mc Delbert “Mac-Mac" Arriola, UNTV (cameraman), General Santos City
11. Bal Cachuela, Punto News, Koronadal City
12. Ernesto “Bart" Maravilla, Bombo Radyo, Koronadal City
13. Ronie Perante, Gold Star Daily correspondent, Koronadal City
14. Joel Parcon, Prontiera News, Koronadal City
15. Jun Legarte, Prontiera News, Koronadal City
16. Rey Merisco, Periodico Ini, Koronadal City
17. John Caniban, Periodico Ini, Koronadal City
18. Arturo Betia, Periodico Ini, Koronadal City
19. Noel Decena, Periodico Ini, Koronadal City
20. Rani Razon, Periodico Ini, Koronadal City
21. Jhoy Duhay, Gold Star Daily, Tacurong City
22. Andy Teodoro, Central Mindanao Inquirer, Tacurong City
23. Jimmy Cabilo, Midland Review, Tacurong City
24. (missing) Reynaldo “Bebot" Momay, Midland Review, Tacurong City
25. Napoleon Salaysay, Mindanao Gazette, Cotabato City
26. Jun Gatchalian, Davao City
27. Lindo Lupogan, News Media Gazette, Davao City
28. Jolito Evardo, UNTV (asst. cameraman and editor), General Santos City
29. Daniel Tiamzon, UNTV (driver), General Santos City =0=
Requiescat in Pace
=============================================================
Tiger Woods suffers lacerations in a car crash
Tiger Woods crashed his 2009 Cadillac SUV against a fire hydrant close to his 2.4 million Florida home then to a neighbor’s tree on November 27, 2009. His wife Elin Nordegren Woods was inside their home when she heard the crash. She came outside, breaking one of the car’s window to free her husband.
Found unconscious for about 6 minutes with some facial lacerations by responding officers from the Orange County Fire rescue, the 33 year-old famous golf star was rushed from his Windermere home in an exclusive community to a nearby hospital
Initial fact-finding labeled the incident as an accident though the investigation is still in progress. It was unclear where he was going shortly before 2:30 AM. Police officers didn’t think the world’s most famous golfer was under the influence of alcohol. Woods was soon cleared and released from the hospital after treatment. Photo Credit: Keith Allison) =0=
UPDATE: Later report by TMZ points to domestic violence that brought injuries to Tiger Wouds. As investigation is ongoing, his wife is eyed as responsible for the cuts on his face after the couple had a heated confrontation about "another woman."
===============================================================
Lack of forensic science logistics in the Maguindanao massacre probe
It is like what happened to the sinking of the passenger ship Princess of the Sea at the height of a typhoon which drowned 800 or more people on June 22, 2008. The Maguindanao political massacre is posing the same problem for the investigators. The basic lack of facilities to store 57 dead bodies has hampered the probe.
The government has not done anything new to prepare for instances of mass deaths. With the global outrage over the barbaric bloodbath, the Philippines is under pressure by the human rights groups and the United Nations (UN) to come out with a clean and fair pursuit of justice.
Dr. Ben Molino who works in the group CenterLaw Philippines said he feels sad for government doctors who have to face the lack of logistics to deal with the investigation of a massacre with so many fatalities. The working conditions of the probers are bad, endangeriing and probably compromising the integrity of the investigation results. Such helplessness and embarassment have obviously been ignored by the Philippine authorities.
The investigators quickly dug the bodies by a land-fill excavator and by hands without employing caution to preserve as much evidence. Gloves were hard to find. They employ the crude lime to retard the decomposition of the bodies, many wrapped in banana leaves in the absence of freezers.
“Dr. Molino lamented that there were no refrigerators to store the bodies, nor even just air-conditioning. In a CenterLaw Philippines report, he said: “They could have at least used lime to slow down the process of composition but I did not see any indication that they did that."”—GMAnews.Tv (November 21,/2009)
Obviously, the morale of the medico-legal investigators is low. It is reported that their autopsies have been “completed,” but the doctors refuse to be interviewed. Their initial findings point to gunshot wounds as the cause of the victim's death. But it is unsure whether they have identified the brutalized bodies for proper disposition.
I have occasions of working with Dr. Ben Molino in the 1980's in similar difficult probe situations. I feel there is nothing much which changed to improve the state of forensic science in the Philippines. It is an area that the government must urgently look into to bring justice and avoid embarrassing the country in the world.(Photo Credits: Erik de Castro/ Reuters x 2) =0=
RELATED BLOG: "The Ferry Tragedy: Lack Of Body Bags And The Dearth Of Forensic Expertise" Posted by mesiamd at 6/27/2008; Maguindanao Massacre: death toll climbs with 22 mediamen dead Posted by mesiamd at 11/25/2009; Maguindanao bloodbath blamed on Ampatuans Posted by mesiamd at 11/24/2009
=============================================================
Advent retreat in preparation for Christmas
The Our Lady of Penafrancia Devotees Association (OLPDA) composed of mainly Filipinos of Bicol roots in the Northeast is conducting an advent retreat this Satuday, November 28, 2009 at 10 AM to 3 PM in Our Lady of Victories School basement located at corner Ege Street and Westside Avenue in Jersey City, New Jersey.
In preparation for the coming yuletide celebration, the religious recollection will tackle among others the relevance of the saving birth of Jesus Christ in the modern world. Topics include “Priesthood” and “The Devotion of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.” FR. Joe D’ Amico, pastor of St. Aloysius Church in Jersey City will be the speaker.
OLPDA extends its invitation. Those who wish to attend may contact Genevieve del Rosario at 201-435-2840. (Photo Credit: Boy Cabaero) =0=
=============================================================
UP bags top recognition in an international computer programming tilt
For solving 10 out of 10 computer problems, the team “Mga Sogo ni E.T.) from the University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City bagged the 2009 ACM International Colle giate Programming Contest held at the Ateneo de Manila.
“The ACM International Collegiate Programming Contest (ICPC) traces its roots to a competition held at Texas A&M in 1970 hosted by the Alpha Chapter of the UPE Computer Science Honor Society. The idea quickly gained popularity within the United States and Canada as an innovative initiative to assist in the development of top students in the emerging computer science.
The ACM ICPC is a team competition consisting of three collegiate students and a coach. Each team is given a set of programming tasks (from 8 to 10 problems) to be solved in 5 hours using a standard computer and programming languages such as C, C++, and Java.”---- Manila Bulletin.(11/25/09, Calimag, M.)
Coached Eric Tambasacan, the UP team was represented by computer science students Kevin Charles Atienza and Marte Raphael Soliza, and computer engineering student John Eddie Ayson.
There were 55 teams from four countries and 23 schools joined the the ACM ICPC Manila regional contest on October 22-23, 2009. Trailing the UP students for the second place was team “Passion” from Ho Chi Minh City University of Science, in Vietnam whose members were Pham Tuan Vu, rinh Tran Dang Khoa, and Le Do Hoan Nam. Their coach was Dang Ngueyen Tien.
The third place went to team “NUSSOC1” from the National University of Singapore. Mentored by Steven Halim, the Sinngaporean team were composed of Victor Loh Bo Huai, Adhiraj Somani, and Doon Hanh Hung.
The winning of UP students indicates the talent and potential of Filipinos in the realm of programming and computer science. This is a beacon of hope for our young students to pursue challenging careers in computes. (Photo Credit; Napolinario) =0=
============================================================
Thanksgiving Kid
Noah Cannady, son of Mr. and Mrs. Matt and Jomarie Cannady of North Carolina, waits for the meaningful day of Thanksgiving.=0=
Happy Thanksgiving Day!
For flowers that bloom about our feet;
For tender grass, so fresh, so sweet;
For song of bird, and hum of bee;
For all things fair we hear or see,
Father in heaven, we thank Thee!
~Ralph Waldo Emerson
A Thanksgiving Hymn
(from the 1894 Agricultural Almanac)
"Have you cut the wheat in the blowing fields,
The barley, the oats and rye,
The golden corn and the pearly rice?
For the winter days are nigh."
"We have reaped them all from shore to shore,
And the grain is safe on the threshing floor."
"Have you gathered the berries from the vine
And the fruits from the orchard trees,
The dew and the scent from the roses and thyme
In the hive of the honey-bees?"
"The peach and the plum and the apple are ours,
And the honey-comb from the scented flowers."
"The wealth of the snowy cotton-field
And the gift of the sugar-cane,
The savory herb and nourishing root -
There has nothing been given in vain,
We have gathered the harvest from shore to shore,
And the measure is full and running o’er."
Then lift up the head with a song!
And lift up the hands with a gift!
To the ancient giver of all
The spirit of gratitude lift!
For the joy and promise of Spring,
For the hay and clover sweet,
The barley, the rye, and the oats,
The rice and the corn and the wheat,
The cotton and sugar and fruit,
The flowers and the fine honeycomb,
The country, so fair and so free,
The blessing and the glory of home,
"Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving!"
Joyfully, gratefully call,
"To God, the preserver of men,"
The bountiful Father of all."
(Photo Credit: Richard Pigott)=0=
=============================================================
For tender grass, so fresh, so sweet;
For song of bird, and hum of bee;
For all things fair we hear or see,
Father in heaven, we thank Thee!
~Ralph Waldo Emerson
A Thanksgiving Hymn
(from the 1894 Agricultural Almanac)
"Have you cut the wheat in the blowing fields,
The barley, the oats and rye,
The golden corn and the pearly rice?
For the winter days are nigh."
"We have reaped them all from shore to shore,
And the grain is safe on the threshing floor."
"Have you gathered the berries from the vine
And the fruits from the orchard trees,
The dew and the scent from the roses and thyme
In the hive of the honey-bees?"
"The peach and the plum and the apple are ours,
And the honey-comb from the scented flowers."
"The wealth of the snowy cotton-field
And the gift of the sugar-cane,
The savory herb and nourishing root -
There has nothing been given in vain,
We have gathered the harvest from shore to shore,
And the measure is full and running o’er."
Then lift up the head with a song!
And lift up the hands with a gift!
To the ancient giver of all
The spirit of gratitude lift!
For the joy and promise of Spring,
For the hay and clover sweet,
The barley, the rye, and the oats,
The rice and the corn and the wheat,
The cotton and sugar and fruit,
The flowers and the fine honeycomb,
The country, so fair and so free,
The blessing and the glory of home,
"Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving!"
Joyfully, gratefully call,
"To God, the preserver of men,"
The bountiful Father of all."
(Photo Credit: Richard Pigott)=0=
=============================================================
Maguindanao Massacre: death toll climbs with 22 mediamen dead
Officials said 57 dead bodies were recovered in the site of massacre which occurred in Maguindanao, Philippines. The senseless political killings were reportedly carried out by the influential Ampatuan clan against political rival family--- the Mangudadatus. Wrapped in banana leaves, many of the bodies were not yet identified, but among the fatalities were 22 media men. Update of casualties was placed at 57 dead as of November 25, 2009.
“The journalists were accompanying several women of the powerful Mangudadatu clan to file the candidacy of one of the family for the provincial governor's post in elections next year.
No men from the family were present, since they believed that women would not be attacked by rivals.
Their convoy was stopped by about 100 armed men, who herded them to a remote hillside and attacked them with M-16 rifles and machetes. Two of their vehicles and many bodies were thrown into a freshly-dug pit and covered with earth by an excavator.”---Reuters (11/25/09, Castro, E.)
Pres. Gloria M. Arroyo declared a state of emergency in Maguindanao Province to help investigate and apprehend the gunmen and the brains of the heinous killings. Hundreds of military troops were deployed in the area to lessen the tension and prevent more violence to erupt.
The aggrieved Buluan vice-mayor Ismael Mangudadatu who lost his wife and other family members have pointed to the supporters of Maguindanao Governor Andal Ampatuan, Sr. and his son Datu Unsay mayor Andal Ampatuan, Jr as those behind the despicable murders, but government authorities have yet to arrest the suspects.
Joining the entire world in condemning the brutal crime, the United Nations secretary general Ban Ki- Moon expressed dismay and shock among groups like the European Union, and various diplomatic missions.
Although Pres. Arroyo, a known political ally of the Ampatuans vowed that justice will be served to avenge the dead, many are skeptical. Unsolved political killings especially in Muslim South are usually unsolved and unpunished in the Philippines. (Photo Credits: Reuters/ de Castro, E.; AP/ Marquez, B.; AP/ Favila, A.) =0=
=============================================================
Cosmetic surgeon loses license resulting from sex-tape scandal
Dr. Hayden Kho, the infamous cosmetic surgeon of the Belo Medical Group involved in the blistering sex scandal with movie starlet Katrina Halili, Dr. Vicki Belo, and other women was stripped of his license to practice medicine on November 20, 2009 by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC).
The basis for the license revocation stemmed from the young doctor's poor judgment of videotaping his sexual relation with Halili and showing the intimate footage in You Tube for the public to see. The PRC ruled that Kho’s action was immoral and dishonorable.
The medical license revocation prompted Kho’s legal counsel to file for a motion of reconsideration before the decision to prevent him from practicing his profession becomes final. Representing her client, lawyer Lorna Kapunan said the surgeon’s punishment was “too harsh and unfair.”
Obviously, the PRC's decision on Kho's case reflects the standard of morality of the professional regulating body. The humiliation which comes from this sex scandal is a shameful example from which doctors and other professionals can learn from. (Photo Credit: Philstar) =0=
RELATED BLOGS: "As the Kho-Halili sex scandal is investigated, obscene video sells briskly in the sidewalk " Posted by mesiamd at 5/29/2009; "Dr. Vicki Belo: a lesson on cosmetic surgery, sex, & "quackery"?" Posted by mesiamd at 11/07/2009
===============================================================
2.5 million Muslims on a pilgrimage to Mecca
About 2.5 Islamists have arrived in Mecca, Saudi Arabia to participate in the annual pilgrimage amidst fears of swine flu and possibility of stampede. The holy ritual of Muslim believers coming together annually doesn’t come without risks. At least 4 people were reported to have died of H1N1 flu. There were deaths from panicked jostling, pushing, and trampling which marred past observances of the religious tradition.
Three years ago, 364 people died after a stampede broke at the entrance of the crowded Jamarat bridge, east of Mecca. A total of 1,426 pilgrims lost their lives after being trampled on in a fatal stampede in the crowded tunnel in Mina.
To avoid a repeat of tragedies, about 100,000 security men were called to manage the peace and order of the place. Hundreds of cameras were set up to watch the conduct of the religious celebration. An extimated 20,000 healthcare personnel were made available to give medical services to the pilgrims. A 300,000 square meter expansion of the site had been on the works to accommodate a million more visitors to the religious site.(Photo Credit: Life.com) =0=
============================================================
152 RP nursing colleges warned of closure
Commission on Higher Education (CHED) chairman Emmanuel Angeles announced that 152 nursing colleges are in danger of being closed if the passing rate of their graduates do not improve. In the last five years, these schools posted lower passing scores than the national passing rate of 46.16% in the board exam. Next year, they will still be given a chance before facing the propect of being phased out in the business.
Nursing colleges with less than 5% passing rate of their graduates in three consecutive years will not be permitted to operate.
The most number of nursing colleges with poor performance are concentrated in MetroManila. Included n the list are: Arellano University-Manila, Arellano University-Pasay, De Los Santos-STI College, De Ocampo Memorial College, Dominican College, Dr. Carlos S. Lanting College, Emilio Aguinaldo College, J.P. Sioson General Hospital and Colleges, La Consolacion College Manila, Las Piñas College, Martinez Memorial College, Mary Chiles College, Olivarez College, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Pasay, Perpetual Help College of Manila, Philippine College of Health Sciences, Philippine Rehabilitation Institute Foundation, Southeast Asian College, St. Jude College, St. Rita Hospital College of Nursing and School of Midwifery, STI College-Recto, the Family Clinic, Unciano Colleges and General Hospital, University of Perpetual Help-Rizal, and World Citi Colleges, Quezon City. Other erring schools are in Calabarzon, 23 schools; Central Luzon, 20; Ilocos Region, 16; Bicol, 14; SOCCSKSARGEN, 8; Northern Mindanao, 7; Zamboanga Peninsula, Davao Region and Cordillera Administrative Region, 6; Cagayan Valley and Central Visayas, 5; CARAGA Region, 3; and Eastern Visayas and Mimaropa Region, 1.--- Philstar (11/25/09, Ronda, R.A.)
The mushrooming of substandard nursing schools predictably produced half-baked graduates who have difficulty passing the board of examination. These colleges should not have been allowed to operate. Under the noses of education and labor regulators, schools nonetheless graduated so many nurses. The wastage of time, money, and effort was ignored until the despicable consequences were obvious.
Because of neglectful education planning and labor allocation, almost a hundred thousand licensure candidates are to take the next board exam at the end of November. A despicable scandal of the profession, many of them have dismal chances of landing a job locally or abroad.(Photo Credit: nursingpins.com) =0=
==============================================================
Maguindanao bloodbath blamed on Ampatuans
The gruesome massacre which left at least 36 people dead after they were kidnapped in Maguindanao, Mindanao, Philippines had been blamed on political rivalries involving leaders of the powerful Ampatuan clan.
Four survivors whose identities were not disclosed alleged that they heard Mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr say the killings were demanded by his father Andal Sr. and older brother Zaldy, the governor of the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao.
Among the victims was Genalyn T. Mangudadatu, wife of Buluan, Maguindanao vice mayor Datu Ismail “Toto” Manguddatu, the chief political rival of the powerful Ampatuans. Genalyn died with the convoy which included Toto’s two sisters, two lawyers, about a dozen journalists and supporters who did not survive the shootings perpetrated by heavily-armed men. Military authorities set up check-points to find the suspects.
At the time of the killings, the ill-fated group was about to file a certificate of candidacy (COC) for Toto Manguddatu’s run for governor at the Maguindanao Comelec Office in the provincial capital of Shariff Aquak--- a place controlled by the Ampatuan family.
The senseless bloodbath, the most vicious in memory, was condemned by local and international groups such as the Bishops-Ulama Conference, National Union of Journalists of the Philippines and the Reporters Without Borders (Reporters Sans Frontieres).(Photo Credit: wikimedia) =0=
UPDATE: The Philippine government declared a stte of emergency in the place where the massacre occured as the number of causualties mounted. This will allow curfews and searches to be done by authorities as they search for the gunmen that killed 46 people. Press freedom groups and journalists doubt if justice will be served in this ignominious murders.
=============================================================
Hospital services overstretched by illegal immigrants
Supported by taxpayers to give medical care to Americans and illegal immigrants alike, Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia suffers like other hospitals in the country from budget crunch. Its services have reached breaking point because of high volume of charity patients and dwindling money support.
After decades of humanitarian work spanning more than a hundred years, the hospital which provides dialysis for patients with end-stage renal problems has started cutting down services for lack funds, worrying patients who come regularly without any means to pay for treatment. Approximately $50,000 dollars are needed yearly to keep a patient alive for a year.
In October 4, 2009, the public hospital stopped its outpatient service, putting uncertainty on the survival of its regular clientele, mostly undocumented aliens. They are left to figure their next move to get healthcare right in the US territory or in their homeland.
“With limited exceptions, illegal immigrants are ineligible for public insurance programs like Medicaid and Medicare and often cannot afford private coverage. When major illness strikes, they have few options but to go to emergency rooms, which are required by federal law to treat anyone whose health is deemed in serious jeopardy…
Officials at Grady, which will provide more than $300 million in uncompensated care this year, estimate that as many as a fifth of its uninsured patients are illegal immigrants. Although the numbers are elusive, a national study by the RAND Corporation concluded that illegal immigrants account for about 1.3 percent of public health spending. “---New York Times (11/20/09)
With the economic downturn, America is now experiencing financial difficulty in supporting the health needs of about 10 million illegal immigrants among the 46 million who don’t have medical insurance benefits. When they become covered by the healthcare system, available medical services may not be enough to accommodate them. The deluge of patients can precipitate doctor and nurse shortages, making Pres. Barack Obama’s healthcare reform more contentious.
Because of the huge number of new holders of insurance benefits, elderly Americans, the disabled, and those with rare diseases and needing chronic care may be marginalized as services become scarce or trimmed down --something that is likely to happen when patients flood the system and cost-saving measures are implemented.
It is no surprise then that the public is confused and fearful. Citizens find it hard to digest the almost 1 trillion cost of the proposed healthcare reform bill that awaits deliberation in Capitol Hill after the Thanksgiving holiday. (Photo Credit: Benedicte destrus) =0=
=============================================================
Beringuela-Amansec Wedding in Paco, Manila
In all the world
There is no heart
for me like yours.
In all the world,
there is no love for
you like mine.
~Maya Angelou
Mr. & Mrs. Gisberto Beringuela is happy and honored to announce the marriage of their daughter Loren Jane to Adrian Bernard A. Amansec, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Benardo Amansec.
The wedding will be held on December 9, 2009 at the St. Pancratius Chapel in Paco Manila, Philippines at 5 PM. The reception immediately follows at the Paco Park Gardens.
UP Ibalon-Bicol sends its best wishes and congratulations to the lucky couple. (Photo Credit: http://adrianlorenwedding2009.weebly.com/) =0=
===============================================================
Coal mine blast in China points to the cost of development for 1.3 billion people
Out of the 528 people working in XinXing coal mine, 420 survived the predawn blast on Saturday, Novermber 21, 2009. A total 104 died after gas levels suddenly went up and triggered a huge explosion. At least 4 were still unaccounted for and about 40 were brought to nearby hospital for treatment of burns and injuries.
According the survivors, some of their friends were not able to escape in spite of the warning they relayed on the impending explosion. Soon after the fatal blast, fearful mine workers in an adjacent site of the accident were hesitant to come down the shaft, but they had no choice for they need to work. Otherwise, they will be jobless and have no means of livelihood.
The blast is the worst in 2 years as China tries to generate its energy source for fuel for its 1.3 billion people. Coal is the source of ¾ of China’s electricity. The communist country, accelerating to grow and attain development, wants to achieve 8% economic growth for this year. This is part of their desire to boost their economy and have prominence among the world's influential nations.
In 2007, shafts at two neighboring mines suffered flooding which killed 181 miners in eastern Shandong province. A massive landslide caused by heavy mining led to deaths of 277 people in mud in Shanxi province.
Residents were awakened by the latest blast in the early morning in Hegang province, an old city with snow which often is dark-gray resulting from coal contamination---a big issue in environmental pollution. Despite closure of about 1,000 dangerous mines last year, accidents and deaths of miners still happen. (Photo Credit: Niklausberger) =0=
==============================================================
CNN chooses Efren Penaflorida as "2009 Hero of the Year"
In an acceptance speech at the Kodak Theatre in Holliywood, teacher Efren Penaflorida spoke of serving others above oneself to be happy. He was tops in a field of 10 finalists honored by “CNN’s Heroes: An All Star Tribute,,” an annual recognition of international news organizations of people doing selfless acts for the benefit of humanity.
The first Filipino to receive such an award, 29 year-old Penaflorida was selected and voted by 14 judges out of 10 nominees chosen from 9,000 candidates worldwide this year. Among the judges were Gen. Colin Powell, movie actress and TV personality Whoopie Goldberg, and singer Elton John.
A son of a tricycle driver and a laundress, Efren was given the tribute for his work in “Kariton Klasrum,” a teaching program on pushcart that brought the learning of math, science and English into the street for impoverished children in Cavite.
The young mentor who almost dropped out of school because of poverty received a $100,000 prize for his work in the Dynamic Teen Company (DTC,) a volunteer youth organization which conducts the learning program.
In its inception, the DTC relied on the sale of discarded bottles and newpapers to support the pushcart classroom which had inspired others to do the same. Youth groups approached the organization so they can implement the same program to their communities. With the new direction of DTC, Peñaflorida said he will continue to give weekly lessons to the poor using the money in his winning. He encouraged others to contribute time and assist those in need. (Photo Credit: Mike Alquinto/ AP/ CNN) =0=
=================================================================
Healthcare bill hurdles the senate
The democrat-dominated US senate has voted (60-39) to continue the healthcare bill debate towards making into a law on Satruday, November 11, 2009. There were 58 democrats and 2 independents who voted to clear the 2,074-page bill for the next stage of deliberations slated after the Thanksgiving holiday. All 39 Republicans rejected the bill.
Hailed by Pres. Barack Obama, the healthcare revamp which promises medical insurance coverage for 94% of the population needs about 1 trillion to finance is deemed too expensive. Those who oppose the bill worry more government control--- lesser Medicare services such as more taxes in insurances and payroll incomes, elective operations (cosmetic surgery,) and drug manufacture (i.e. H1N1 vaccine productin.) (Photo Credit: Hoffman, Brendan/ AFP/ Getty images) =0=
=============================================================
Iran conducts military exercises
The Iranian military will conduct war exercises in the coming days aimed to strengthen the country’s defenses. For five days, practice and war games will be done across its territory to boost Iran’s readiness against real attack.
According to Brigadier-General Ahmed Mighani, a commander of an Iraninan air defense base described the military maneuver to use new weapons and test communication capabilities in an area of 600,000 square kilometers.
In response to Iran’s rejection of the United Nation’s draft deal crafted to bring 80% of Urab's lightly enriched uranium abroad, leaders of United States, Russia, China, Germany, Britain, and France were mulling on more sanctions. The draft deal was supposed to halt Teheran's program of nuclear armaments. The U.N. atomic energy agency (IAEA) chief Mohamed ElBaradei, asked the cleric-dominated Islamic country to accept the draft deal which he referred to as a “fleeting opportunity.”
Brandishing its military might while engaging in forked diplomacy, Iran still insists that its nuclear program is entirely for peaceful purposes--- meant mainly to produce electricity. Western nations are convinced this is not true.
Iran continues its nuclear buildup and hateful war provocations against Israel. The dictatorial Muslim nation warns that it is prepared to attack Israel and the US in defense. As the solution of the nuclear question stalls, the Iranians are coming close to producing its radioactive bomb, making the world more unstable and dangerous. (Photo Credit: Erick Lafforgue) =0=
==============================================================
Oprah ends her daytime TV show in 2011
The queen of daytime talk show Oprah Winfrey announced her decision to quit her show on September 2011. The popular entertainment host who graced TV show audiences and endeared her fans since 1986 planned to confirm the news in her Friday appearance in one of the most watched programs in television.
Wealthy, famous, and a prominently influential Afro-American in the entertainment trade, Oprah has a viewership which ranges from 3 to 7 million in more than a hundred countries. For a long time, she reigned as the best-rated daytime show in town.
According to observers, she earns a fabulous pot of $270 million yearly. Her future plans is unclear after she leaves the 25th season of her very successful syndicated show. It appears what lies ahead is unsettled since the astute businesswoman has involved herself in politics by supporting current Pres. Barack Obama--- a move that may eclipse her fame and fortune. (Photo Credit: cbc.ca) =0=
===============================================================
Actor Johnny Delgado dies of lymphoma
Philippine veteran TV and movie actor Johnny Delgado succumb to malignant lymphoma, a form of lymph node cancer on Thursday, November 19, 2009 at the age of 61. Two days before his death, he was rushed to St. Luke’s Hospital suffering from complications of the disease and chemotherapy.
The entertainment celebrity was popular in his many film and TV appearances which spanned for four decades. In the 1980’s he was a regular actor in “Goin’ Bananas.” He played a role in “Tanging Yaman,” a drama which gained him a FAMAS Award as the 2000 best actor. Johnny was the husband of Laurice Guillen and father of Ben Feleo---both film-makers by profession.
A devout Catholic Christian, Johnny’s remains was brought to New Manila, Quezon City at our Lady of Mount Carmel Shrine for viewing prior to the burial at the Loyola Memorial Park on November 24, 2009. (Photo Credit: Weiss08) =0=
==============================================================
Naga City Rotarians donate for the Center for the Blind
Housed in the Raul Roco Library, the Center for the Blind in Naga City is the recipient of charitable donations from the Rotary Club of Naga-Camarines Sur and the Rotary International District 3820.
Benefactor Rotarian Jose “Chingsan” Ranola and fellow local Rotarians give away computers and equipment to the center set up for the benefit of those with eye-sight impairment.
Patronized by mostly students, the facilities help the visually challenged in their studies and researches. The center offers a comprehensive training and education for the blind.
Adding to the facilities were computers given by the family of city mayor Jesse Robredo. The donation beefed up existing computer and IT facilities in the center ---some solicited from other organizations and private individuals. (Photo Credit: localcville) =0=
=============================================================
RP’s improvement in corruption index doesn't mean much?
This year’s report by the Transparency International on corruption perception has placed the Philippines in a better position. From last year’s 141st ranking in a field of 180 sovereign states, the country placed 139th, an improved corruption index for 2009. RP's rank is shared by Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Belarus.
Trailing in the bottom end of the list are nations with the strongest corruption perception--- Iraq, Myanmar, Sudan, Afghanistan, and Somalia. These are countries which have worrisome peace and order problems.
It is unlikely that the improved rank of the Philippines opens a significant dent against its culture of corruption. However, the perception that graft abates in the islands is a bright spot---a source of consolation. It points to an opportunity for for advancement. Sadly, by indications, corruption still threatens RP's progress and stability.
High in the list of less corrupt countries are New Zealand, Denmark, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland, and Finland.
The United States slid down from 18th to 19th place raising concerns of growing dishonesty especially in the business sector. It is unsure if what Pres. Barack Obama plans will effectively combat corruption.
The healthcare reform bill Obama supports has avoided the issue of fraud in medical services and reimbursements. The economic difficulties in the US have spawned the rise in corporate crimes which erodes trust and stifles development. (Photo Credit: Donnali) =0=
==============================================================
Dr. Doom thinks the worse is yet to come
In an article written for the Daily News, Nouriel Roubini, better known as Dr. Doom predicted that unemployment would be worse next year. From the official jobless rate of 10.2% the NYU economics professor who foresaw the economic meltdown spoke grimly of greater loss of work ---probably now hovering at 17.5% if those who stopped looking for jobs or remained underemployed were included.
“The long-term picture for workers and families is even worse than current job loss numbers alone would suggest. Now as a way of sharing the pain, many firms are telling their workers to cut hours, take furloughs and accept lower wages. Specifically, that fall in hours worked is equivalent to another 3 million full time jobs lost on top of the 7.5 million jobs formally lost.
This is very bad news but we must face facts. Many of the lost jobs are gone forever, including construction jobs, finance jobs and manufacturing jobs. Recent studies suggest that a quarter of U.S. jobs are fully out-sourceable over time to other countries.”----Daily News (11/15/09, Roubini, N.)
Roubini suggested that in the coming year the unemployment rate will hover high at about 11%, but it will be far worse in the following two years. Because of a weak labor market, he says the economic growth and recovery will be slow.
The budget deficits will rise accompanied by slowing in the real estate market. Delinquencies on mortgage payments, larger budget deficits and a fall of real estate prices are expected. If these scenarios occur, banks and lending institutions will bear much of the pain.
Roubini’s prescription is for the government to embark on another stimulus---creation of jobs by investing on infrastructure. Giving away unemployment checks is not enough. Those without work must find a way to have one and be productive.
Judging from the falling popularity of Obama, there is doubt if the US president can steer the country to better economic times. As he rounds up his visit to Beijing, China, Obama speaks of a double-dip recession if debt and spending are not controlled. =0=
=============================================================
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
