CREATIVE EXCURSIONS TO THE PAST-PART 1

"Pursuing what we want to do and achieving your goal is not like finding the burning bush or discovering a gold mine. There are usually no epiphanies, no sudden reversals of fortune. Fulfillment comes in fits and starts.....Fulfillment comes in many guises, and it can come to us in our lives at any time.....But only we can make sure we will be fulfilled. If we feel empty, no amount of water can fill our well. It has to come from within, from the underground springs and streams." '- Mary Morris

EBB'S E-TALK: Most of our contributors and other classmates had been featured on this blog. So far, I haven't shared my profile yet. Am I waiting for someone to write about me? Nope! As your blog designer, I think it's my turn to let you know more about me. Do you remember me from our senior photo? Yes, that's me (Evelyn V. Dirige) - the petite girl with that curly hair. When I went to college I thought the spelling of my name was so common, so I asked my father (a lawyer) to add the letter "e" to the end of my original name. My new name "Evelyne" was spelled differently and sounded a bit Frenchie. After disappearing for almost 50 years, I never expect anyone to know tons about me. Who would fill the long gap but me? I will not bore you w/ long stories and like to share only some highlights of my past life.
SOMETHING OLD#1: For me, my junior year was the most memorable. While others had been popular with their academic achievements and many extra curricular activities, I was always in the background. Wena said...."Why did you hide your artistic talents while in high school?" Actually I didn't. I showcased my talent in quiet ways. Many of you didn't know that during our junior I had been busy designing and sketching lots of bulletin board displays for our home room teacher Mrs. Prudencia Sanchez. These art projects were mostly for our classroom. When she had to leave the classroom, I was always assigned to write on the blackboard for the class to copy. She saw my artistic potentials and beautiful handwriting.I never expected that she would reward my artistic efforts. One day, I was surprised to hear my name called during the "Recognition Day." I was so happy and inspired because that's the only "award" I received from high school. That was a turning point in my life and without a doubt, I wanted to be an artist someday. I'd like to also give credit to my mother who was my real inspiration for becoming an artist. She was a Home Economics expert, very creative, and resourceful. She was my biggest fan. Let's go back to Mrs. Sanchez. Later she wrote something on my autograph book, which I still have. No wonder she became my favorite teacher. I'd like to share it with you all.

(March 19,1959) "My dear Evelyn, You've been a very helpful girl to me-for that I'll always remember you. I hope to have girls like you in the next years to come. You've impressed me, too. With those qualities-diligence, conscientiousness, simplicity and fine manners-which you possess. Keep up your good work and heaven bless you!

SOMETHING OLD#2: After h.s. graduation I pursued Fine Arts at the University of the Philippines. I saw some high school classmates like Flor Alcantara & Raquel Tadena during my general education years at the Arts & Sciences. I didn't bump into Eloi, Sari & Cora, although they went to U.P. too. During my Fine Arts years, Yolly Bello Pajaro and Lydia Aunario were my classmates. I also saw Linda Chacon hanging around because her old b.f. was also taking Fine Arts. I graduated w/ a major in Advertising and Editorial Design. I worked for various advertising companies in Manila like Grant Advertising and Outdoor Advertising. Then I taught art education (elemetary levels) for a year at Grace Christian High School (Chinese school in Quezon City) prior to immigrating to the U.S. in 1969).
SOMETHING NEW#1:Crossing the Pacific Ocean via Pan-Am, I found my new love and life in the United States. I met my Filipino husband Rhod during Halloween at a friend's birthday party in Santa Monica, California. I was a natural looking "Eve" without a mask and costume. He was not wearing a costume either. He was just a plain "Hot Rod" type. He's an electronic engineer. He immigrated to the United States with his parents, sisters & brothers, when he was only 15 years old. He's a Filipino but have a very good American accent. By now, many of you know that I married a young hunk four years younger than me. I have no regrets and enjoy being a "cub-cougar." We are happily married for 38 years now. (Left photo) - This was our latest formal photo taken during our recent cruise with Queen Mary 2 last July 4th.
SOMETHING NEW#2-Career, marriage and family, I had them all. My graphic art career was short. With 4 successive babies I decided to be a full-time time mom. We are blessed with three sons and one daughter. When our youngest son was in kindergarten I decided to be a working mother and got back the graphic art job I left behind after a decade. The photo on the right side was my favorite mom and daughter picture. This was taken when I was 53 years old and Joy at 19 years old. Sorry, no latest photo with our other children:

1. Rodney(eldest son)-Graphic artist and Information Technology

2.Joy(daughter)-student(Cinema Art)

3.Ryan (3rd son) -Computer Science
4.Robin (youngest son)-Graphic Artist

GRAND KIDS: (left side)

Our joy and inspiration.

SIMON: 12 years old and Audrey: 9 years old

SOMETHING VERY OLD: This was my photo when I turned 65 years old last September 2008. Life was not a bed of roses all the time. I had my share of challenging and depressing problems and obstacles. First let me tell you what happened to me at mid-life. I became a "bionic woman." How? I didn't aspire to be like Lindsay Wagner (original Bionic Woman") from the 70's TV series but I became like her. I had bionic parts and implants on my body. At mid-life (50 yrs. old) I started having a gradual, progressive, bilateral hearing loss. I couldn't hear the phone ringing, didn't understand the speaker, the answering machine, and the TV. I couldn't hear in noisy parties, couldn't hear in the dark, etc. Everyone seemed mumbling. Twelve years ago at 53 yrs old, I was the first Filipina to have a cochlear implant surgery at the UCLA Medical Center in Westwood, California. Cochlear implant is a mini-computerized device that helps hearing impaired people like me understand the spoken words and various environmental sounds. The implant helps me regained 85% of my lost hearing. It's not perfect because even now, I still don't understand everyone over the phone. This is the reason why I am not fond of using the phone. When I tell people that I am a "bionic woman" they are truly amazed. Three year ago, I had another implant called "lens implant." I had cataracts on both eyes, and lens implant was the recommend treatment. Now I could see well and don't wear eyes glasses except for very fine..... fine prints. What's next? Breast implant? Nope! I am happy w/ my size 34 B and who I am. So far, I now belong not only to the "Cub-Cougar Club" but also to the "Stepford's Wives Club"- (robotic wives). No wonder I click well with computers. But don't be scared.....I am still a real person. I eat favorite food like pancit palabok and fresh lumpia ubod. I don't eat metals, computers, and chips. I hope you enjoy my amazing life story. With love from your bionic classmate and blog designer. Watch for Part 2 next week!!!!

"LONELY HEARTS NO MORE"

"We all have time machines. Some take us back, they're called MEMORIES. Some take us forward, they're called dreams."- Jeremy Irons

EBB'S E-TALK: Success and inspiration seem to be an underlying theme of the stories in this week's blog. Take a moment to read about the lives of these trios-Sari, Cherrie and Bong as they danced their way to success. Sari is the main writer, introducing both classmates- Cherrie and Bong. Sari is intoducing herself. Here's her profile that she wrote in our blog last June.

PROFILE OF ROSARIO VALENZUELA
Age: 64
Gender: Female
Industry: Non-Profit
Occupation: Public Health Nutritionist
Location: Brooklyn : New York : United States
About Me
Single. Have lived in 6 different States in the US; NY being the last one; been there for 25 years. Enjoy challenging low cost travels to Europe, driving cars/vans with relatives and friends. Love keeping in touch with and visiting good old friends, who trust me with their secrets. After getting parental scholarships, put self through grad school and earned a master's degree in Public Health Nutrition at Penn State U. In my desire to have a more meaningful life (kasi tumatanda na), I currently manage a New York State funded program that is focused on providing nutritious foods to hungry New Yorkers (NYC lang); have been on this job for 14 yrs. Prior to this, I was engaged in Healthcare Food Services with Aramark and directed big and small hospital food service depts. (13 years). Thus far, 27 yrs. accounted for. 7 years of schooling and training (5 yrs. UP; 2 yrs., 2 different Dietetic Internship programs); 11 yrs. work in Food Service Mgt, Nutrition and Dietetics and related fields; 2 yrs grad school; and 3 years unemployed that were likely filled with lakwatsas. These summarize my 50 yrs.-life after PWU.
Interests
Travel and Visiting Friends & Relatives
Favorite Movies
Mostly that of Audrey Hepburn
Ingrid Bergman
Grace Kelly & Cary Grant (halatang old vintage)
Favorite Music
La Vie en Rose
I Will Wait for You
Romanza
Two for the Road at marami pang iba na old vintage.
Favorite Books
Suspense fiction novels
SARI'S SERIES: Way back in June, I told Evelyne that I would write about Cherrie & Bong (after my update on Cora). This was to be posted to fill up the blog.... now this is on the "waiting list" for blog posting. Enjoy reading about them. I'll attach their "then" pictures.

ROSARIO VALENZUELA (HIGH SCHOOL 1960)

Lonely Hearts No More - that's Patricia (Bong) Arroyo Staub and Charito (Cherrie) Silva McSorley. In the early '70s my sister, Ara, called us - the Lonely Hearts! because nobody dated us - 5 professional (perhaps intimidating) women. Bong worked at the Food & Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI), Cherrie at the Philippine Psychological Corporation (PPC) and I at the Manila Yatch Club. This intro is about Bong and Cherrie.
PATRICIA ARROYO (H.S. 1960)
First Bong - she has a BS in Chemistry at PWU, an MS and a Ph D degrees in Food Technology at Iowa State U. and Food Science at Purdue U, respectively. Bong worked as a Scientist at FNRI and later as a professor at the UP College of Fisheries. Ms. Time efficient Bong wrote a reference book, The Science of Philippine Foods that was published in 1974, revised in 1982, and updated with an addendum in 1996. This book is still in use. Bong developed the best local dried fruit mix (best selling esp at X'mas) and sweetened sampalok. Bong went to Germany on a fellowship and came home with an MD - marriage degree - to Heinz Staub of Karlsruhe (hence Lonely Heart no more). Bong & Heinz returned & resided in Karlsruhe after Bong fulfilled her service obligation at UP.Bong wrote kitchen tested recipes for use by Filipinos in Germany utilizing ingredients available in local groceries (written in English & German); this book has had 2 revisions. Bong took up a 2nd career in Germany, finished nursing and worked as a nurse at a nursing home in Karlsruhe until she retired in 2007. Bong & Heinz split (no "s") their time between Germany & Philippines .





CHARITO SILVA (H.S. 1960)
Upon completion of a BA degree in Psychology at PWU, Cherrie taught at PWU and joined PPC. Cherrie worked her way up and became director of Testing and Research. Cherrie received a UNESCO grant to study at U Michigan in 1970 and returned to PPC. She left again (and never came back) in 1973 to pursue an MS in Consumer Psych at Purdue U. It was there where Cherrie met and married (kaya di na Lonely Heart) her lifetime partner, Robert (Bob) McSorley, who was pursuing a Ph D in Nematology. Bob is a sought after professor and researcher in Tropical Nematodes. Cherrie settled as a homemaker and raised daughter, Tessa. Cherrie is the best partner & manager the McSorley family ever had; and also most doting mother. When Tessa started schooling, Cherrie could not be kept away from Tessa's school and decided to be a Teacher's Aide. She worked mostly with fifth grade students. Cherrie kept this job till she retired in 2008. Cherrie and her family have been living in Florida (Homestead and Gainesville) for 31 years.
This genuine and lasting friendship and camaraderie with Cherrie and Bong was established at PWU, but not inside the classrooms. The extra-curricular activities such as Acquaintance Party, Lantern Parade, Choral Contest, Intramural, to name a few, were instrumental in drawing us (students) together. Students, without teacher involvement, planned and implemented /executed all of these activities that became venues for expressing one's organizational skills, leadership, ingenuity, artistry, literary skills, etc. PWU had an exceptional way of wringing hidden talents out of its students – this is what makes our Alma Mater so unique and distinctive.

AND NOW PRESENTING OUR U.S. REUNION COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF: SARI AND MISS JULIA CALIXTO (PRINCIPAL)
PERSPECTIVE FROM PURI: DEAR CLASSMATES, WE WILL ALL SAIL TO BALI HAI IN A VINTA. OUR BOAT WILL BE BAMBOO POLES BOURNE BY NATIVES ON THEIR SHOULDERS WITH PRINCESS CARMELITA PERCHED ON TOP. THE SAILS WILL BE OUR SCARVES TIED IN KNOTS. IT WILL DRAPE BY THE BAMBOOS TO REPRESENT WAVES AS WE SAIL. PLEASE OPEN YOUR DRAWERS AND MAIL ME 2 OR 3 COLORFUL SCARVES THAT YOU OWN. SIGN YOUR NAME IN GOLD INK. EXAMPLE: ROSARIO VALENZUELA , PWU HS1960. I WILL TIE THEM TOGETHER IN KNOTS ( PARANG KASALAN,ANO)?THE VINTA WILL DOCK IN BALI HAI AGAINST A BACK-DROP OF AN ERUPTING MAYON VOLCANO WITH SIGHTS AND SOUND EFFECTS. WE THE GOLDEN JUBILEE NATIVES WILL ENTER BEHIND THE VINTA IN LANGUOROUS SENSUAL MOVEMENTS WITH A SCARF OF GOLD TIED TO OUR RIGHT MIDDLE FINGER AND ENTER TO THE TUNE OF THE BALI HAI SONG (USING KATZUDARATAN STEPS). THEN PRINCESS CARMELITA WILL DISEMBARK FROM THE VINTA AND DO SOME SINGKIL MOVEMENTS, HER FANS REPRESENTING WAVES FROM THE SEA. THIS IS OUR DRAMATIC ENTRANCE . THEN WE WILL USE THE KNOTTED SCARVES FROM THE VINTA AS A ROYAL ROBE TO WRAP AROUND QUEEN HELENA HZB AND PUT A HAKULEI ON HER HEAD. WE WILL PRACTISE THE DAY BEFORE. I'M TRYING TO FILIPINIZE BALI HAI AND DO SOME KIND OF FUSION FOR A FILIPINO- HAWAIIAN PRESENTATION. I'M STILL PIECING TOGETHER OUR REPERTOIRE. STAY TUNED. TO BE CONTINUED.

"LUCKY 13" BY PURI LACONICO

PURI CAPISTRANO (HIGH SCHOOL 1960)

Gender: Female
Astrological Sign: Sagittarius
Location: Willow Glen, San Jose : California : United States
About Me
I am married to Ramon for 44 years. We have 4 children,Yvonne,Ramon III,Dominique & Samantha- all professionals and 5 granddaughters,Sophia & Lisa Zivanic, Vanessa,Tara & Loren Laconico. We live in Willow Glen, San Jose, California. Now retired. Served as First woman President of the Filipino-American Chamber Of Commerce of Santa Clara County; Past Commissioner-City Of San Jose, Committee on Minority, Women,& Disadvantaged Business Development;Past Rotarian;Chairman San Francisco Bay Area Philippine Tourism Advisory Council, Bayanihan Dance Company member; Founder-Choreographer of Kaisahan Dance Co.of Chicago;Magazine Columnist-Philippine Herald;VP Aarone Corp, a Silicon Valley Electronics Company.
Interests
Gardening,Travel ,Reading ,Dancing
Favorite Movies
An affair To Remember ,Gone With the Wind
Favorite Music
Classics and Old Time Favorites ,Send In the Clowns from Little Night Music
Favorite Books
Leon Uris and Cummings books

PURI'S PERSPECTIVE

Sari and her search team rounded up all 31 of us now in our group email. A good number we should bet on Keno or Lotto. We are now the Lucky 31 opposite of 13.
Therefore we should have a winning team project that is within our grasp and means. A gesture we can leave behind to commemorate our arrival to the golden jubilarian status. We cannot solve poverty, corruption, hunger, crime, and all other ills that beset our nation with the blink of an eye.
But there are ways to help make a difference by expressing a sense of caring to the less fortunate. By accident of birth many children inherited a tough and pathetic life. To help them we should help their parents’ ability to support them. You may have many other suggestions which you should share. Let me share mine as well.
SSS….. START WITH SEEDS AND SEEDLINGS.
In Trece Martires, Cavite there is a new village called Munting Paraiso sponsored jointly by PWU Bayanihan and Gawad Kalinga. It is spearheaded by Bebet Benitez Mclellan and Inda Gage. Last February I attended the turnover of 40 newly built homes. The recipients had tears in their eyes when they got the key to the house of their dreams. They used to live in carts and makeshift tents. Bebet’s son Brian took a leave from the East coast to help in the carpentry building team. Tita Helen said that her American apo has a Filipino heart. A couple of weeks ago just days before her 95th birthday the Helena Benitez Social Hall was inaugurated.
I saw that there is more land available. What I’m thinking is if we can donate seeds, seedlings and or trees to the village paradise. There is manpower at hand. It will provide them a source of livelihood. They can have a plant nursery where people can buy seedlings or cut flowers. In the meantime trees can be planted in the periphery. It will provide shade in a green environment and in due time the growth will provide timber. Gemelina takes 5 years and Mahogany takes 10 years to yield lumber. Grafted fruit trees can also be planted .Seedlings are available in Los Banos. I was thinking that for any amount of donation, they don’t cost much, maybe $10 is already a lot but more is always better, we can buy trees or plants of our choice and names of donors can be tagged there just as a token symbol of giving.
We can arrange for a day trip there to present and help them plant. Then we can motor to the Mango Orchard and Country Club nearby for lunch at the clubhouse and merienda at Tita Helen’s ancestral home inside the mango Orchard compound.
SUNFLOWER ASALTO AT MIRANILA
Let us greet Tita Helen with sunflowers at Miranila to symbolize our HS1960 Class Brand Logo. Let is plant sunflower seedlings in her Friendship Garden spot there. Usually she serves merienda but if not we can always bring what we crave for.

EBB'S E-TALK : Lately I have been very busy with my grandkids, that blogging took a lesser priority. My "grands" are staying with us for the whole summer. I like it because we don't see them all the time since they live up North. We only see them during holidays. Last Wednesday, my husband took an unused sick leave and out of the blue we headed to the charming Carpinteria Beach at Santa Barbara. We have been struggling with three digits temperature for two weeks and we wanted to seek relief from the scorching heat. The beach was crowded when we arrived by 11:00 a.m. We put on our tent to shield me from the heat. My companions are fairly light in complexions. While they basked & played on the beach, I stayed under the tent to keep me from getting more dark. I have always been on the "kayumanggi" side and happy with it.

I enjoyed watching my grands building sand castles w/ out a care in the world. My husband & I did nothing but just watched the grands, talked, ate our fried chicken picnic lunch, gazed at the blue skies and the world passed by.What a carefree day! We came home tired and exhausted but our bond with our grandkids became stronger. We also felt younger again.

This week blog features Puri and Wena. I am happy to take a back seat and let them shine. This is the kind of thing we plan to do in our future blog. Post the "before" and "after" photos. Honestly, I had a difficult time doing it w/ Puri's photo, side by side. But I am willing to spend lots of time learning how to do this.We are happy to welcome Wena on board. Here's her latest corner.

FIRST PHOTO: WENA NOBLE (HIGH SCHOOL 1960) SECOND PHOTO (BARYO FAMILY)

EBB, HERE'S A PICTURE OF MY FAMILY : MY SON -TONY, HUSBAND - PHIL, DAUGHTERS- MARIE AND ANNE. THANKS , WENA
WENA NOBLE BAYRO'S CORNER
HI EVERYONE TRIED TO GET IN OUR BLOG. KIND OF FUN TO EXPERIMENT ON SOMETHING I AM NOT SURE I AM DOING RIGHT , ANYHOW IT IS INERESTING TOTRY AND SEE IF I CAN CAN DO IT RIGHT. THIS WEEK IS KIND OF A DEPRESSING WEEK FOR ME. I HEARD SO MUCH COMPLAINT FROM PTS ABOUT MISTAKES IN TRAY LINE, LOTS OF MISSING ITEMS AND MISSING MENUS. I DON'T HAVE A DIET CLERK. ANYHOWI DECIDED TO QUIT THAT JOB IN NOV. WHEN I TURN 65. I HAVE BEEN GETTING INTERESTING EMAIL FROM ALL YOU GUYS, IT IS AMAZING HOW WONDERFUL IT ISTO HEAR FROM CLASSMATES AFTER ALMOST 50 YRS. I HEARD FROM MY OLD ROOMATE IN NEW YORK , OLIVE ABELLA . IT WAS NICE TO KNOW THAT SHE HAS NOT FORGOTTEN THOSE DAYS , SOME GOOD AND SOME NOT SO GOOD ( THAT'S OUR SECRET). WE PLAN TO VISIT SAN DIEGO AREA ON LABOR DAY WEEKEND, I AM HOPING I CAN MEET WITH EVELYN NAZARETH, PURI SAYS SHE WILL PROBABLY BE IN MANILA SO MAYBE I CAN MEET WITH HER ANOTHER TIME. MY SISTER FREDES USUALLY CELEBRATES HER BDAY IN LAS VEGAS , SO WE PLAN TO BE IN VEGAS WEEKEND OFOCT 17. ANYONE INTERESTED IN GOING TO VEGAS FOR FUN. MY HUSBAND LIKESLAS VEGAS HILTON SO WE ARE BOOKED THERE FOR THAT WEEKEND. WELL , LOOKS LIKE I HAVE TO HEAD BACK TO WORK, TODAY IS SAT AND I HAVE TONS OF ASSESSMENT TO DO SO I'LL SAY FAREWELL, SO LONG FOR NOW. STAY WELL EVERYONE.
TILL NEXT BLOG!!!!

NEW COMMENTS:

From: Bong Arroyo Staub Nice hearing from all! Thanks also for the b-day greetings. Wonderful to know that you are all up and energized. keep it up! Love, Bong Arroyo Staub (Patricia)
PS Said prayers for Au Camacho, Ms. Saguisag, Perla, Louie Reyes and Nina Arellano. Joselita and Ampy. May they rest in peace.

From Cora: I have not welcomed our new entry- WENA NOBLE I have been inactive for a few days due to my mother's ilness- and did not get to welcome you properly.WELCOME, WENEFRIDA NOBLE!!!WELCOME, WENA!!!!I can still vividly recall your figure, how you would stand and recite in class, and how you write and sign your name.

From Eloi Dizon: Hi Evelyne, I am glad that you know where Atascadero is, few people do.The place where I work, Atascadero State Hospital is a forensic hospital, I am a psychiatrist on a temporary basis because I am not sure if I like to work longer. I have just been here 8 months so I am still exploring the area but I work every day so I only have weekends free. I will be in Chicago from August 14 to Sept.8 , so we probably may meet the next time you visit. I am still in the process of moving . I lived in Chicago for the past 30 years and ready for a warmer climate. It is nice that you have settled in California, it is a pretty state.I really enjoy reading the blog.It makes a big difference in pulling us together , helps to build momentum for the reunion. Regards,
FRom Linda Baisa: Congratulations for this beautiful update! Puri & Wena are certainly lovelies. July 27, 2009 10:56 PM

FRESHMEN YEAR -1957

BY EBB,CHERRIE,CORA,PURI & SARI

"ONCE IN A WHILE"
Once in a while will you try to give one little thought to me
Though someone else maybe nearer your heart

Once in a while will you dream of themoments i shared with you.

Moments before we two drifted apart.

I know that I'll be contented with yesterdays memory

Knowing you think of me once in a while.......................

CONGRATULATIONS AND THANKS TO ROSELANI FOR THESE NAMES: Freshmen year picture came out clearly for me, and will name our classmates by rows. I apologize that I could not remember the names of our other classmates. I remember the faces of some of them but cannot recall their names. The others are really blank to me. Ebb (Evelyne D.) where are you in the picture? I am kind of hesitant to point you out as I am not sure.. The "X" are the ones I could not name. I am also missing Sonia Alvarez. I guess she was absent when the class picture was taken.

Here's the updated names from Sari:
FRESHMEN:
First row from left: Mary Felix, Baby O'Brien, Tita Ang, Hana Gomez, Sylvia Estrella, Vicky Saldana, Celia Espiritu, X , Mrs Vergara, Mrs. Concepcion, Lita Ramos, Aurora Castro, Linda Chacon, Corazon Herrera , Susan Vergara, X, Ma. Teresita Castro, Charito Silva.

From left to right...2nd row: X, Dolores Luz Bacaltos, Lydia Zulueta, Preciosa Conde, Lourdes Reyes, Evelyn Nazareth, X, Perla Barretto, Puri Capistrano, Wenefrida Noble, Erlinda Mantes,Victoria Madina, Sonia Realesa, X, X, X, X, Elizabeth Amith(?), Segundina (?), Elouisa Dizon

3rd row: Norma Reyes, Evelyne Dirige, Cirila Vito, Mae Retino, Olive Abella, X (Rory you shd know her; you have her picture), Leonides Lucas, Carmen Parraga, Teresita Deboma, X, Didi Alejo, Manon Baranda, Georgina Hernandez, Carina Gregorio, Myrna Mendoza(?), Teresita Lonzame, Cecilia Chua,, X, X, X

4th row: Elsie Baban, X, Aurora Villanueva, Natividad Sanchez, Flordeliza Alcantara, Polita Uy, Neria Conate, X, Nancy (?), Belinda Carino, Zenaida Matanguihan, Sari, X, Adoracion Custodio, Rose Lani, X, X, Corazon Fausto, Catalina (Patsy) Sillona, Lillia Villa

5th row: Celina Cruz, X, X, X, X, X, Carmen Exconde Teresita Platon, Cynthia Ugalde, Teresita Rivera, Lolita Agustin, Raquel Tadena, Joselita Agustin, Milagros Caballes, Maria Luisa Recacho,, X, Amparo Lejano, Araceli Miranda, Patricia (Bong) Arroyo.
Let me know if you anyone of you can recognize those that I missed.

EBB'S E-TALK: The above lyrics are taken from the famous sentimental song by Nat King Cole "Once In A while." This is also the favorite song of Cora.Why? I have no idea? Cora, it's up to you to tell us why? I know we all have many secrets in life. At this age, I think it's time to spill the beans or get out of our shell and share our secrets. Those classmates who have not utter a word, please speak up. Kahit once in a while only, let's think of each other and say something.

It just seemed yesterday when I was in our freshman year. Parang "kahapon lamang," noon pala lagpas na nang 50 years. Long before I became a freshman, I was already familiar with the PWU campus. Two of my eldest sisters graduated from PWU high school. I was the third daughter from our family who attended PWU. I was there w/ my parents and sisters whenever they had Christmas programs and other special events. I saw them graduated from PWU. So I was inspired to follow their footsteps.

Then came first day of freshman year and I was very disappointed. Our classroom was in an old quonset hut. I attended a public school during elementary and our building was even nicer and better. And it was free. PWU is a private school and the tuition was not cheap. Our classroom was a quonset hut. Anyway, the new classmates and freinds I had made there made up for my early dissapoinment. The freshman year went by so fast and the next year in sophomore, we were in a nice building. Hurray! And rah! Rah! Rah!

ACQUAINTANCE PARTY- This yearly event was one of my favorite one during high school days.

Description: Courtesy of Sari: Acquaintance Party (di lahat yon lang infront at visible) Cherrie, di ko kilala yong partial face at nakatalikod, Ikaw, Wena (behind you), Deboma (her first name escapes me at the moment), Roberta San Agustin, Gergie H (yong prisoner ng cannibals), Sonia A. standing sa backgrd,; 3 with spears - cannot identify yong partially hidden sa likod - Piping Itlog (Ma. Paz Uychuico, Celia Cruz in frnt)

WELCOME HATS TO YOU ALL!!!!! We'd like to welcome classmates added to our e-grp list - Bobby, Wena & Teresita. Thanks to Cora for contacting Bobby and of course to Agent Sari for dicovering the whereabout of Wena & Teresita. Will post more about them later.

I finally received the CD yearbook from Esther last week. I just finished looking at the photos. Esther told me that when I get the CD of our year book photos.....
"hahagulgol ako." In fact I had the opposite reaction. "Nakakatuwa" to see my past classmates even in photos only. The other night (hindipa dumating yun year book) I saw many classmates in my dream. I never dreamed about h.s. classmates before. Since I started doing the PWU blog, everyone is getting closer to me.
CHERRIE'S CORNER: Finally Cherrie is back. I'd like to share her personal e-mail to me. Hi Evelyne, I feel so bad that it has taken me a long time to email you (you personally), but aside from all the everyday tasks on hand, emailing is a little difficult for me. In analyzing (or giving excuses) for this "odd" behavior, I think it is because there is so much I want to say and I get overwhelmed - also - I tend to censor my thoughts and sentences so much that in the end I don't write down anything. Believe it or not I'll think about what to say, and then I'll rephrase it in my mind and I'll keep rephrasing it and never get around to actually sitting down and typing it. How is that for an excuse? Anyway, if you feel you want to include that excuse in my contribution to the blog, please fell free to do so.
Speaking of the blog, I think (I know!) I did not finish putting in all the info I needed to as a contributor. I think the phone rang while I was in the middle of doing it and somehow I never got back to it. How do I finish that task? What do I do to get back in? As you can tell, I am not savvy with the computer.
By the way, I am TRULY impressed by the blog you have started and created. It is AWESOME and I am positive it has definitely brought us all closer emotionally. What an accomplishment! Congratulations and thank you for giving us this opportunity to "come" together 50 years later and feel a bond with each other that is unbelievable and rare. I was talking to Girlie and Esther one night (Esther initiated the conference call) and Girlie said she believes the Philwomenians have a bond with each other that is very strong. I agree and as Sari very efficiently brings the class back together, it really feels good.... very good in fact. I know some of you are wondering why not everybody has joined in this emailing but rest assured, whatever their reason is, they are enjoying it. I know I am! So - let us (or you the regulars) keep it going.
Last night I started to read a book entitled The Girls from Ames by Jeffrey Zaslow. It is a story about 11 women and their forty year friendship. Gosh - ours has been more than fifty years! What is important though is it tells about the unique bond between women as they go through the different phases of life. I still have a long way to go in the book but it might be interesting for some of you to pick up the book and see the parallel situations in our lives and we can exchange thoughts later.
On an aside Evelyne, I went to your website and was of course very impressed. It is amazing how you have ventured into the art world late in life and have been truly successful. Kudos to you! I especially like seeing the pictures of your daughters graduation. My daughter is in art too and when you have time, you may visit her website. Gosh, I can't remember the name but I guess if you google her name Tessa McSorley, it will lead you to the website.
This has been Long (way too LONG) for me so I 'll just click on send to get it on its way. As I said I have addressed this to just a few people but feel free to use parts of it as my contribution to the blog. I hope we see each other soon.
CHEER'S FROM CORA'S: Hi Classmates, I just visited our blogspot - which I have not visited after quite sometime.Very interesting and is really fun. I hope we can hav more names and more people giving in their comments.Please remember- this is not for just a small group. This is for everybody. One reason why you probably see much of our names there- is because we want to keep it going. BUT - this is FOR THE WHOLE CLASS. So - we enjoin everyone to write in and contribute.I like the photos that evelyne has posted. Although- I admit - I am not sure kung makikilala ko si Evelyne right away- as Sari was able to do. Good looking talaga yang si Sari. Isang LOOK lang- alam na niya. Amd so is Evelyne who recognized Sari right away. But then again - Sari's features did not change much. I think Evelyne's did (of course I have to see you in person before making that final judgment). I hope our new recruit- BOBBY DE LOS SANTOS will enjoy the blogspot and will also contribute. CHERRY: read your email to Evelyne. That pocketbook you were reading sounds interesting!!!. Sari- I am glad you can now do email in your apartment.At di lang yun- nagtatawag ka pa sa PIlipinas. I suggest you link up with NBI, CIA and Interpol - to locate our missing classmates.Hinahanap ko pa din si Maria Pilar Victoria Medina and a lot of them . Where is Muriel hagos?
PURI'S PERSPECTIVE:

Ebb, thank you again for the new blog postings. Parang kwentohan outside the campus.katakot-takot na mini reunions,parang walang katapusan na halakhakan. Sana nga walang katapusan habang may hininga pa tayo.Isa isa na tayong namamaalam. I'm in San Diego now and in LA tomorw sayang di tayo magkikita. But we come here often. So tayong tatlo ni Evelyn N ang 3 musketeers dito.
Many of us just want to communicate on a one on one basis which is also good. An open line of communication that is not for public consumption. Personal messages oftentimes.I get those too. But its best for them to participate in our class chitchat.To feel like we are around a bonfire, by the beach, or a fireside chat, or tsismis over the fence or a tea party. Like you said it should be like a Cafe where we can let down our hair and just be ourselves. No teachers to grade or censor out thoughts. Just let our fingers do the typing without planning what to say. Doing this is the fastest way to be in touch.
SARI SPEAKS:
Evelyne is now in possession of our year book pictures that Esther painstakingly took time to scan - individually. Evelyne is excited to receive them from Esther. Evelyne plans to post the "active" members of our class in the Blog. It would be nice if each of us would send by e-mail a copy of our current pictureto Evelyne so she can post the "then and now" pictures side by side. Please try your best to e-mail your picture. (Just a reminder from Ebb: Please send you "NOW" photos in JPEG only. Her computer will not accept other format).

SARI'S SPECTACULAR SERIES:

Last Saturday, I ventured to call Preciosa (Precy) Conde Ramos. Although I could not reach her, Precy called back not knowing who tried calling her. We had a good chat and got an update on each other. She was responsible for helping me find Lillia's whereabouts. Before I go on though, let's keep Precy in our prayers. It seems her breast CA has recurred and she is currently getting chemo treatment. Precy has 3 grown up sons and they are all living in Ontario area. Lillia Villa Javier finished medicine in FEU and set up her practice at her Mom's hometown in Malinao, Albay. Here is Lillia's contact info: Payahan, Malinao, Albay. Tel 0927-414-5433; (son's cellphone - 0917-862-9483). I had a good chat with Lillia's half-sister who lives in Chicago area. - My finding Lillia is not at a good time - in the sense that her husband died last week and would be buried on Tue. July 14. I did not call Lillia cause I did not know what to say at a time like this - esp. after 49 years of having no contact with her. I'll call her after Tuesday. Let's pray for the repose of Lillia's husband (forgot to ask his name). He was a doctor and a collegue /classmate of hers. I tried calling Gerry & Lani last night, but could not reach either one. - Lani, I called to tell you that Bobby (Corazon) de los Santos might try calling you. I was in a calling mood last night and called everyone who lives in the Philippines, but have not yet been contacted. All the phone numbers (for Precy Cervantes and Lulu Pagulayan) are non-working phone numbers. The only correct one is that of Bobby's. I spoke with someone at her house and told her about the upcoming reunion and gave Lani's phone number for more details. Lani - that's the reason why I called. Wrong timing pa kasi you were taking your once a month bath (oops - sorry I revealed your secret to our classmates - [friends/classmates don't believe my statement about once a month bath; twice a month naman he he he]) Lani (or Cora), please follow up my call to Bobby - her phone no. is 921-5620. Thanks.Sari Windows Live™: Keep your life in sync. Check it out.
AN OLD E-MAIL FROM TESS CASTRO (Puri)

Dear Ladies.... I have decided to say something finally (but note that I have been a fan of your e-mail exchanges). I belong to another category (No. 4)... which is that I missed out on most of the fun and camaraderie in high school, thus I am unable to contribute much to our "golden memories". You see, on our sophomore year we were lectured in class about overstaying in the campus after school hours (by Ms. Tolentino), so I quit on my lakwatsa after school hours. But in our freshman year, I remember being around with Roselani, Girlie, Corazon Herrera, and Girlie's younger sister. Have we any news on Aurora Castro and Lilia Villa? I sent a note to Preciosa Conde (cousin of Lilia) in Canada (per Cirila's/Sari's directory) because no one answers the phone. Hope she is okay....any news about Precy? Thanks also to the existence of this directory, I was able to telephone Evelyn Nazareth, Renita Abary, and Eloisa Dizon. Is Carina Gregorio (Atty. Dedo) around? Haven't seen/noticed any "movement" from her side. Is Celia back from her trip abroad? Re reunion, I plan to come and a week before and a week after Feb. 20. and am willing to go along with whatever plans you decide. Am looking foward to seeing you all again. For now, my regards to all... Tessie
REPLY FROM ROSELANI: Yes, you're right Chola. We were close when we were in Freshmen year along with Girlie, Belinda, Sonia, and Joselita. Celia was our classmate during the first month, and she was transferred to Sari's class. Am I right Celia?
During the early part of our Freshmen year, our topic of discussion was "how we felt" with our monthly visitor. For most of us, it was a new uncomfortable experience. I remember Belinda's story that she screamed when it happened to her. Madrama siya. And I remember Mrs.. Concepcion teaching us how to take care of our hygiene. How did we manage then, hindi pa uso yong "napkin" ng 1955-1956 di ba? And wearing white pa tayo. Amazing that we went through that without experiencing too many accidents.
FROM EBB: HAVE TO SIGN OFF, AT NOVEL NA ITONG BLOG NATIN. TILL NEXT BLOG!!!!!!!!

SOPHOMORE YEAR-1958

BY EBB, CHERRIE, CORA, PURI & SARI " CLOSE TO YOU" - by Frank Sinatra
Close to you - I will always stay
Close to you - though you're far away
You'll always be near- as though you were here, by my side
No matter where in my dreams, I'll find you there
Close to me-sharing your caress
Can't you see - you're my happiness
Wherever you go - my heart will go too, what can I do?
It only wants to be - close to you
SOPHOMORES CLASS NAMES-COUTESY OF AGENT SARI:
1ST ROW: Georgina H; X, Sonia A., X, Carmen Exconde, Susan V., Linda C., Celia A., Mrs. Vergara, Mrs. Runez, Mrs. X, Vicky S, Tita A, Lita R, Charitao S, Azon H, Hana G, Baby O’Brien
2nd row: X, X, Zenaida Maniago, Lydia Z, Wena N, D. Luz Bacaltos, Precy C, Azucena V, Lourdes R, Teresita L, Erlinda M, X, Mae R, Flor A, Segundina(?), Elouisa D, Lillia V, Teresita O, Puri C
3rd row: X, X, X, Polita U, Joselita A, Zenaida M, Ester de Leon, Mila Lapuz, Aurora V, Elisa Solis, Yolly Bello, X, Sonia Realesa, Elsie Baban, Rosario V, Araceli Miranda, Patsy S, X, Evelyn N, Teresita C, Cirila V, Estela A.
4th row: X, Norma R, Cecilia C, Neria Conate, X, X, Rose B, Teresita R, Belinda C, X, Adoracion C, Natividad S, Leonides L, Cora F, Lolita A, X
5th row: Elena Achacoso, Maria Luisa Recacho, X, Raquel T, Naty O, Carmencita P, X, Renita Abary, Elizabeth F, Teresita D, Ampy L, X, Nieves Manotok (was w/ us in 2nd yr only, good in math), Lulu Fuentes, Olive A, Perla B(?), Angelita Castillo(?), Aurora Castro, Bong A, Chita J, Lenore Sunio(?)
Enjoy guessing and let us know you'ver identified that I did not.
EBB'S E-TALK: I am back home with my husband from our trip to New York City & cruise to New England. As always a change of scenery re-energized me and had given me new perspective in life. How I wish life is always a vacation but I think too much relaxation gets boring too. I believe that too much work makes "Golden Girl" dull also. So aiming for a balance life is good. Right now I am slowly getting back to my routine. Also, getting back to our PWU blog. It is like facing a fog. My mind is blank but I will try to write something.

Well, the above song is a favorite of mine and was popularized by Frank Sinatra during our high school days. I know this sentimental song is also a favorite of Sari. I no longer wonder why? I am really amazed at how well she connected with classmates from high school. Despite of many years apart, she is so dedicated in finding many lost classmates. Truly, she kept "close" to many high school classmates. I, on the hand, had not been faithful to this song. When I went to U.P. (a co-ed university) I pursued and nourished new friendships. In high school, I was more like a cocoon that didn't like to emerge. But while in college I was transformed into a sociable butterfly. I was into forming more new friendships than keeping the old ones. But now, I wish I had connected more with high school classmates. Anyway, it's not too late to be "CLOSED" to past classmates and friends.

Our blog's main feature is our sophomore class photo above. During our second year, many of us started to shed our angelic wings and dared sprouting devil's horns on our head. Looking back, that's seemed okay. High school days were fun days and despite of hiding our wings in the closest, many of us turned all right. This week-end blog is about about the many mini-reunions that happened from coast to coast these past weeks. These mini-reunions were wonderful prelude to our coming golden reunion on February 20, 2010. When our golden reunion comes around, I am sure we will no longer be strangers to one other but more "CLOSER" than our high school days. Our golden years have given us more freedom and time to connect, if we set our priorities right. We also remember those classmates who passed away. We will miss them come reunion time. Some are meant to live short lives. Some are meant to live longer. So let's keep in touch and stay close while our time on earth diminish. Life is short.Let me share with you my recent trip to NYC. The best thing that happened during this short trip was seeing Sari again after 49 years. I could hardly believe that I was finally reunited with a historical classmate known as the clone of "Alexander The Great." Now our present overseas "reunion-commander-in-chief." I recognized Sari right away when she met us at the hotel lobby. Ganoon din siya. Kilala niya ako kaagad. We smiled at each other and kissed (cheek to ckeek lang....ha! ha!). Pero walang malakas na halak-hakan. The above photo was taken at the lobby of Grand Hyatt New York.This photo was taken at the Grand Central Station. Sari was our tour guide. She knows NYC in and out. Kaya sunod lang kami kay Commander Sari.
SABI NI SARI SA E-MAIL: "Had a great time with Evelyne Dirige and her husband last Monday. We went to the Oyster Bar restaurant in Grand Central; very convenient because Evelyne and Rhod (her husband) were staying in Hyatt Hotel, which is right next to Grand Central Station. SALO-SALO WITH SARI: First we walked into the Grand Central Station. Then stopped at an Italian restaurant but we wanted sushi or Japanese food. So we kept on walking but didn't find one. Later my husband suggested the"Oyster Bar" which he read about at the American Airline magazine. So that's where we ended and had our dinner. The restaurant served mostly seafood. My husband ordered the grilled sea bass, while Sari and I shared a bowlful of bouillabaisse. I am not a big eater, so it's okay to share. The dish wasn't soupy but thick. The color was quite pale compared to the reddish one I always had. Anyway, the dish tasted good and we finished it. We had a wonderful dinner and chit-chat. Some were personal but I don't like to print them on this blog. Madulas ang dila namin dito dahil Oyster Bar. We were smiling while this photo was taken. Napatawa kami because Sari & I were wearing bibs (parang mga bata) as a protector from the messy dish. We had fun but we were not as noisy as the mini-reunion Sari had with the other golden girls at Toronto. We behaved very well in front of my husband (chaperon). After dinner, Sari took us around for a little sight seeing. New York City is so alive and bright at night. No wonder this city made us feel young again. Then we stopped at a Starbuck cafe for another chitchat. My husband wanted a cup of coffee but Sari & I didn't have coffee. Our dinner date ended so fast. Before we knew it was time to say good-bye. My husband & I had been up since 3:30 a.m (L.A. time) and we were .....too tired to stay late. Besides Sari had to work next day. While we had this mini reunion in the east coast Puri and the other Evelyn also had a mini-reunion at the west coast.
PURI'S PERSPECTIVE: Here's Puri's story as she e-mailed to Bong. Bong! Good to know you're still breathing and also kicking. Pinahanap na kita sa CIA. Sabi ni Agent Sari, you're busy taking care of your elderly neighbors there. Dito ka naman sa San Jose and take care of your aging kumare. Masyado kang popular, your bday perked us all up, another wake up call na matanda na tayo.
"I had wonderful get together with Evelyn Nazareth last night.First time we saw each other since school days.We looked at our HS school photos together and reminisced.She said she lost touch with you since college so I filled her up with your escapades in Karlsruhe with Heinz. I still rememeber our last visit there, what a nice place. We capped the evening by going to Japan town for Sushi, tempura, etc. Yum yum, a change from Via Mare. Walang dinuguaan. Then Agent Sari called to let us know she too also had dinner with the other Evelyne, so it was a coast to coast rendezvous with 2 Evelyns in one night. This is fun!
Finally, Evelyn Nazareth Zabala & Puri Capistrano Laconoco together again. Here's our photo taken at the BROKEN YOLK RESTAURANT at Pacific Beach in San Diego, by Evelyn's house (taken June 7, 2009 Sunday). We had an early breakfast because we had to be in LA by noon to have lunch with our son Ramon III.
Evelyn and I with our waiter Nick who squeezed himself in while Mon was taking our Photo.
CORA'S CHITCHAT: JUST A SHORT ANNOUNCEMENT- kasi baka akala niyo I am not replying o nakatulog na ako.I will be going to Korea on July 8 to 13 for a conference. So- pass muna ako. Not sure if I can have email access there- or time for email- Hwag kayong magtaka if you will not hear from me.

CHERRIE'S CORNER: Sorry gals! No word from Cherrie yet. Where are you? Why so quiet? Maybe I should ask Agent Sari to look for you.

SARI SPEAKS: Everyone will enjoy the Ontario, Canada classmates. Mahilig ding humagikgik tulad ng marami sa atin. We behaved like young HS students at the Food Court. Some people were looking at us. Buti naman walang may naka-kilala sa amin. - Baka ma-shock yong friends ng mga anak ni Rory & Tessie kung makita nila ang behavior ng parents and their friends na halakhak pa ng halakhak. At saka pwede palang ma out-number ng mga matandang dalaga yong may mga asawa; 3 vs 2 ang ratio kahapon.
We really had a great time. Ang ingay namin. After Esther and Tessie left, Esther, Rory & I continued our bonding. We went to Marriott Hotel where Girlie's sister works. We had dessert - treat ulit ni Girlie, who also treated us for lunch. - Picture #011 Sitting - Sari Valenzuela; Standing L to R: Rory Villanueva Agellon, Esther Lejano, & Tessie Ocampo Guerra.
Picture #012 - Girlie Rivera, Sari Valenzuela, Esther Lejano & Tessie Ocampo Guerra.
From Esther: Hi guys here are the pictures of our mini-reunion. That was really fun. We were like kids again, We should do it more often. Enjoy viewing our beautiful pictures. I have to email the photos in parts at baka hindi madala ng isang bitbitan.....he he he. See you all again pretty soon,
From Cora: Thanks for sending, Sari.I can see you really had so much fun. You were not only smiling - Kita lahat ng ngipin niyo- pati molars. As I said earlier- siguro busog kayo at masarap ang kinain niyo. I can recognize Tessie ocampo but where is Naty? Where in Toronto did you meet?
************************************************************************************* Here are comments about Aurora, a classmate who recently passed away:
From Sari: Please pray for the repose of the soul of our classmate, Aurora Fe Camacho. She died this early this week (Am not sure when exactly; Lani who informed me did not know either). Au (as she preferred to be called by friends) had been ill for sometime now and like Josie Agustin Viesca & Ampy Lejano Jonson, Au was in so much pain. All the 3 of them died from cancer; Perla Barretto Menguito also had cancer. May the souls of our departed classmates rest in peace; eternal rest and happiness grant unto them o Lord! Sari PS I attached Au's HS yearbook picture so you'll remember who she was.

From Tessie Castro-P: Am very sad to hear this news. Last time I saw Aurora was in October 2008 at her home, after her brief stay at the hospital. Perhaps I did not mention this to you (Celia, Gerri) at our last meeting because my impression was that she wanted to be quiet about her sickness. Every now and then, I called her long distance to say hello. She will surely be missed (especially at our next reunion). Any more details about her demise would be appreciated.

From Gerry: Au , we were told by her brother was an idealist, and was bitter about certain incidents in her life, some of which she shared with some of us. However, towards the end, she began to soften, accepted her fate which made things easier for her spiritually.
Strangely enough, even though her condition grew worst, towards the end, - according to her brother- she did not yet want to die.
Perhaps, according to a close friend, if she only took things seriously when she discovered something was not right with her health, it would not have gone this far. Perhaps, only perhaps, she would not have suffered for sooo long and her condition would have reversed.. But then, who are we to question God's plan for each one of us? Important thing is that towards the end, we look up to God as our Maker and be ready when He calls.
Au was very thoughtful. Despite her condition, she worried about her friends, making sure they received presents from her every Christmas . She would always send us uraro, tinapa and whatnots wrapped up neatly in a package. Before her condition grew worst, she would invite us to the Manila Yacht Club from time to time.
"Grant Au rest in Your bosom oh Lord, and provide for her a seat in your banquet table, amen"
A reflection to share - Excerpts from Psalm 90: A prayer of Moses, the man of God
Lord, Thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations
Before the mountains were brought forth,
or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world,
from everlasting to everlasting though art God.

Thou turnest man back to the dust, and sayeth: "Turn back, O children of men!"
For a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past, or as a watch in the night.

Thou dost sweep men away; they are like a dream,
like grass which is renewed in the morning;
in the morning it flourishes and is renewed;
in the evening it fades and withers....