GGQ Apr-Jun 2013

G GQ GENERAL SANTOS CITY’S MAGAZINE TAKES ON GENSAN AND THE GLOBAL SCENE!

NIX THE NUKE

GENSAN GAZER QUARTERLY APRIL-JUNE 2013

GGQ IN HYDERABAD PARIS DOs & DON’Ts

KASALANG FILIPINO 2013 IN GENSAN SUMMER SHOOT BOOKS, CDs, GADGETS AND MORE!

GGQ, THE NEW GENSAN GAZER, PRESENTS Couples: Keeping the Flame Alive Y Communication in a Relationship Y How THE COUPLES Not to Lose Yourself in a Relationship Y After Infidelity: Make Up or Break Up Y Money Matters in Marriage Y Say it Often, Say it Less Y More!

ISSUE 2013!

Camella General Santos: First of its Kind in Boom City Gensan

C

amella General Santos is the first of its kind in the boom city of General Santos. This masterplanned community is a premier subdivision known for prestige and quality, the first Caribbean-themed residential development in Gensan, boasting of a wide range of house designs, land area, and price options.

The elegantly masterplanned Camella General

Santos residential enclave is the first gated community with 24-hour security monitoring and perimeter fence system designed to keep the area safe and secure at all times.

Camella’s Caribbean motif is complemented by its trademark tree-lined Grand Entrance and the Central Plaza, on open space with amenities such as the Grand Clubhouse, Children’s Playground, play courts, pocket gardens, and soon,

Prime location / Accessibility:

Within 3 km from SM City / Robinsons Place / KCC, very near to Quantum School

Comfort / Convenience Affordable / Value for Money Exclusive Lifestyle

swimming pool and children’s wading pool.

Camella General Santos, which also provides its homeowners and their families with shuttle service to select destinations in the city and back, is the only subdivision in Gensan with a dedicated property management company that oversees the community’s cleanliness, upkeep, and maintenance.

Over the course of its

growth, Camella General Santos has perfected its esteemed Home Collection, which showcases designs masterfully crafted to style and function with different homeowner types in mind, providing a wide range of house models to choose from, even offering lotonly packages for investors.

Its Camella Home Series (PHP 1.1-2.5 M) features elegant house models ideal for start-up families and young professionals. The Crown Jewels Series (PHP 2.6-3.5 M) suits the established individuals who seek maximum comfort and superlative elegance. The Luxuria Series (PHP 4-5 M) combines luster, luxury and lifestyle in one irresistible package.

Camella General Santos is a development of Camella, a subsidiary of Vista Land and Lifescapes, Inc., the country’s largest homebuilder.

It has 35 years of experience, built more than 200,000 homes through 87 projects, and maintains a strong presence in Mega Manila and 19 other key provincial destinations and 44 cities and municipalities, while expanding to other regions. For more information, call 083-553-3377 or log on to www.camella.com.ph.

From GG to GGQ: Turning a New Leaf in 2013

G GQ GENERAL SANTOS CITY’S MAGAZINE TAKES ON GENSAN AND THE GLOBAL SCENE!

NIX THE NUKE

Gensan Gazer™ Quarterly (GGQ) Magazine is published by Armanikolas Publishing ®™ and printed in General Santos City, Philippines.

GENSAN GAZER QUARTERLY APRIL-JUNE 2013

GGQ IN HYDERABAD PARIS DOs & DON’Ts

KASALANG FILIPINO 2013 IN GENSAN SUMMER SHOOT BOOKS, CDs, GADGETS AND MORE!

GGQ, THE NEW GENSAN GAZER, PRESENTS THE COUPLES ISSUE 2013!

2

GGQ • Q2 2013

Proud member of the General Santos City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Incorporated

GGQ Q2 (APRIL-JUNE) 2013 GGQ shall not, without the consent of the Publisher, be given, lent, resold, used as textbook, hired out or otherwise disposed of; or affixed to any part of any publication or advertising material in any way whatsoever. While all reasonable care is taken for contributed material, no responsibility will be assumed for its return or for corrections.

Opinions expressed or implied are solely those of the authors, and are not necessarily endorsed by the Publisher. Advertisers and/or their

issue. The most pronounced change is the shift from 8x10 inches to 8.25x11.65 inches (roughly A4 size), and thicker glossy paper for the inside pages. There’s a slight inclination toward breathier spaces and a markedly more laid-back layout, and a new direction altogether in typeface standards. The facelift and new overall look-and-feel are easy to notice, yet in a familiar kind of way. Enjoy reading!

Armando Nicolas P J Editor-in-Chief

What’sInside 3 4 6 10 12 14 15 18 20 21 22 24 25 26 27 28 30 34 36

representatives shall indemnify the Publisher in relation to any defamation, breach, royalties, intellectual property infringements, unfair trade practices, or privacy rights violations in their ad material. All contributions must be submitted to gensangazer@gmail.com and are subject to editorial review for possible inclusion in GGQ Magazine.

Armanikolas Publishing ®™ B34-L7 Doña Soledad II A, Espina Gen. Santos City 9500 Philippines Phone : +63-83-8269221 Phone : +63-83-5547055 Website : www.gensangazer.com Website : www.visitfilipinas.com

Gensan Gazer in Hyderabad Couples: Keeping the Flame Alive Communication in a Relationship How Not to Lose Yourself in a Relationship After Infidelity: Make Up or Break Up Money Matters in Marriage GadgetSpeak: Samsung Note II Gensan’s Kasalang Filipino 2013 Musix Mixx | Books Buzz Say it Often, Say it Less Paris Dos and Don’ts Cooking Corner Paris Snapshots Nixing Nuclear Energy Achievers Abroad Beauty Buzz Summer Shoot Fitness & Health Coordinated Chaos COVER STORY REGULAR FEATURES

W

e’ve succeeded in some small measure in institutionalizing an authentic Gensan publication with the early beginnings of Gensan Gazer, and very recently, by extension, with the launch of Magandang Gensan Magazine in 2012, courtesy of the General Santos City Mayor’s Office.

For GG, it’s time to officially move on to bigger pastures. Embracing the Gensan brand while at the same time catering to a more global audience, our small community magazine now has a loyal following in 379 cities across 63 nations (Google Analytics, 25 Apr 2013) -- proof that the brand has made its mark in the consciousness of Gensan locals and new arrivals, as well

as extended families here and elsewhere on the planet.

To veer away from the Gensan brand without actually abandoning it, GG now becomes GGQ. By name, this is to represent GG’s transformation to a quarterly, and eventually its destiny to stand alone as a three-letter name -- not unlike the transition of Union Bank of Switzerland to just UBS, the former name no longer used and the latter no longer an acronym.

Incidentally, GGQ was born in November 2012 in Paris (see travel feature on page 22), when a casual conversation with a local insinuated once again that a magazine need not carry the name of its birth city. Add to this our desire to solidify the publication’s global appeal, and GGQ rightfully grabbed its own spot.

Unlike UBS, however, GGQ will never lose its local color and affiliation. Regular content on goings-on in and around the city will remain a fixture on its pages, albeit not as a necessity, as well as the preference for local advertisers.

Naturally, we will expand our coverage of international points of interest and world themes in such avenues as arts and culture, health and fitness, lifestyle and travel, as well as technology, environment, and trades. All these concerns are mostly universal anyway, and depending on voice and perspective, geographical bounds in such terms are purely academic.

Enter GGQ, the maiden

ALL CONTENT SUBMITTED

BY FREELANCE WRITERS AND/OR PHOTOGRAPHERS FROM GENERAL SANTOS AND ELSEWHERE IN THE WORLD, AS WELL AS ADS/ CONTENT REUSED GRATIS ARE PUBLISHED SOLELY FOR THEIR MERIT AND BOTH PARTIES’ MUTUAL EXPOSURE AND BENEFIT. THE AUTHORS EXERCISE FULL OWNERSHIP OVER THEIR WORKS, AND ARE NOT EMPLOYED BY GGQ.

ggqwanderings

Gensan Gazer in Hyderabad Our good friend Avel Manansala commanded a captive audience as speaker at the Google Map Maker Asia Pacific Regional Conference in Hyderabad, India in November last year. He made GG some new friends, too.

Photos of conference attendees (top right cluster) by Avel Manansala

Hyderabad is the capital and largest city of the state of Andhra Pradesh in India.

The historic city founded by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah southern of the Musi River forms the Old City, while the New City (also called Hi-Tech City) comprises the urban area on the northern banks.

Both are connected by many bridges across the river. In the south there are many historical sites (Charminar, Mecca Masjid, Salar Jung Museum, Nizam Museum, Falaknuma Palace), and the traditional retail corridor (Laad Bazaar, Pearls Market, Madina Circle). North of the river are hospitals, colleges, major railway stations and business enclaves (Begum Bazaar, Koti, Abids, Sultan Bazaar, Moazzam Jahi Market), and administrative/recreational establishments (Reserve Bank of India, Andhra Pradesh Secretariat, Hyderabad Mint, Andhra Pradesh Legislature, Public Garden, Nizam Club, Ravindra Bharathi, State Museum, Birla Temple, Birla Planetarium).

On the right is Charminar, a monument and mosque that has enduringly become a global Hyderabad icon, listed among India’s most recognized structures. Below is Laad Bazaar, a 1-kilometerlong shopping strip, where most shops sell bangles, saris, wedding paraphernalia, and cheap jewelry. (GGQ)

GG meets new friends from Afghanistan, India, and Pakistan at the Google Map Maker Asia Pacific Conference.

o

F ALL THE PEOPLE IN THE WORLD who are able to shell out advice on love and romance, marriage, living together, intimacy, and relationships in general, I’d probably rank at the bottom heap of the least qualified.

I do not have years of specialized behavioral and psycho-social education and training, and the bulk of the relationships I made and broke (until recently, thank God) were all destined to fail for one reason or another, to say the least.

So -- you’re probably thinking -- exactly what

am I doing here introducing a major cover story about couples and what makes them tick and stick?

To do just that, I suppose, confident that whatever my experience (or lack thereof) can’t even begin to scratch the surface of the subject at hand, the roster of meticulously hand-picked contributions here will have addressed expertly the notion and nuances of being and staying a couple.

For starters, Michael Brady’s Communication in a Relationship (page 6) informs on the merits of listening over lashing. Here, feelings and feedback are

given their due credit, and control and conflict are cast in their truest light.

In Gort and Gertie Guide’s How Not to Lose Yourself in Your Relationship (page 10), we get specific tips on how to keep balance and maintain your footing and self-worth as your own person while immersing in a partnership with your significant other.

On the practical side, Hesbon Kerongo guides us in How to Handle Money Matters in Marriage (page 14). Similarly, Dr Richard Nicastro offers a straightforward insight to a reallife case in Why Do I Get So Upset with My Partner?

Couples

by Armando Nicolas PJ

And at the end, if all else fails, Ruth Martin gives us the ultimatum in After Infidelity: Make Up or Break Up (page 12). You get the picture.

Taking heed of and taking to heart these tips and tricks just might spruce up your life as a couple and as an individual member of a pair. Even singles can learn a thing or two here, as the guide focuses on the singular person first and foremost.

The core unit of any and all relationships, after all, is the self.

Before we take the plunge and immerse further in the stories, why not lend an ear first to what 4

GGQ • Q2 2013

other more distinguished people have to say about relationships? Here are just a few...

All married couples should learn the art of battle as they should learn the art of making love. Good battle is objective and honest -- never vicious or cruel. Good battle is healthy and constructive, and brings to a marriage the principle of equal partnership. (Ann Landers, columnist) Married couples resemble a pair of scissors, often moving in opposite directions, yet punishing anyone who gets in between them.

(Sydney Smith, cleric) This would be a much better world if more married couples were as deeply

in love as they are in debt.

(Earl Wilson, journalist) If we are a metaphor of the universe, the human couple is the metaphor par excellence, the point of intersection of all forces and the seed of all forms. The couple is time recaptured, the return to the time before time. (Octavio Paz, poet) That married couples can live together day after day is a miracle the Vatican has overlooked. (Bill Cosby, comedian) One fool at least in every married couple. (Henry Fielding, novelist) Chances are, you have your own remarks about the subject, but are they witty and short enough for a bumper sticker?

couplesissue

Photo by Taylor Schlades

Keeping the F lame Alive GGQ • Q2 2013

5

couplesissue

com mun icat ion

in a relationship

by Michael Brady

6

GGQ • Q2 2013

c

ommunication is a vital part of our lives: a typical day involves many interactions between ourselves, our work colleagues and clients, our children, our friends, our exes, future relationships, etc.

This interaction takes place where we live, work, relax, socialize, and wherever we perform routine tasks.

Communication skills are critical for building healthy relationships, especially when one realizes that one of the most common causes of relational breakdown is a lack of communication. Just as communication can be the most important part of a relationship, arguments can be the most destructive aspect -- the closer we are to someone, the more easily we can bruise or be bruised. There is very little truth in the saying, Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never harm me. It’s not what we say, but rather how we say it, that most often hurts another person.

Do you identify with any of these statements? He never listens to me when I talk! / She talks and talks, but never actually says anything! / It’s like talking to a brick wall. / I can’t

get through to you. / We can’t talk about anything important without getting into a fight. / She’s too emotional -- she’s either crying or shouting or complaining. It’s easier to avoid her. / He always gets defensive when I try to talk about issues.

Communication is a complex process, of which speaking only makes up for 10-20%.

The other 80-90% is made up by facial expressions, body language, tone of voice, etc.

Communication is the art/science of transferring a thought/idea/information from the mind of one complex human being to the mind of one or more complex human being(s). For communication to be effective, it must be a two-way process.

Dynamics of Interpersonal Communication 1. Facts: Are both people communicating about the same set of facts? Try to separate the facts from thoughts or feelings.

2. Interpretations, Thoughts or Perceptions: Each person interprets a fact differently based on their belief system, personality, values, and experience.

3. Feelings: How we are feeling, our current mood and frame of mind, etc .can subconsciously affect decisions and thoughts.

4. Intentions, Needs or Wants: Are we looking for comfort, clarification, information or simply a chance to interact? We judge ourselves on our intentions.

5. Actions: Is the intent to create harm? Choice of words + tone of voice + non-verbal speech = body language, posture, eye contact, facial expressions, etc. The medium is the message. (The way the message is delivered is the message itself.)

6. Self: The communication center, which includes the issue, topic or conflict at hand, has been filtered by the facts, interpretations, thoughts, feelings, intentions, and choices of behavior/actions.

Listening and Feedback Did I say what I meant to say?

Invite feedback to clarify communication.

Someone who’s not listening lets their mind drift (limited eye contact) and is already preparing the next argument

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or opposing thought (inaccurate feedback).

Listening is an active (not passive) process. When two people argue, they only hear what they want to hear, not what’s actually said. This equates to the accusation of not listening. Most couples start arguing and within 5 minutes are arguing about the way they are arguing.

Don’t argue when you’re angry -- you won’t be able to listen objectively. Give yourself time to cool down and then broach the subject when you’re in a more reasonable frame of mind.

It’s important to give feedback -- to check and confirm. Did I understand you correctly? Is this what you mean? I heard you say this...

Am I right? Feedback can be verbal/non-verbal, e.g., a nod, smile, silence or a cold shoulder. No feedback is in itself a form of feedback.

If the words and actions contradict each other, it is better to believe the actions.

Conflict Resolution Conflict resolution can either be Constructive or Destruc-

re ’ u o Y ted! invi

tive. Destructive Style hinders or inhibits conflict resolution: • Confrontational (win or lose, blaming) • Sabotage (focus on weak points, shaming) • Manipulation (blackmail, withdrawal) • Giving in (passive, submissive) • Avoidance (denial, withdrawal) Constructive Style is trying to minimize the issues and avoiding the difficulties in resolving the problems: • Compromise (meet halfway, understanding) • Accommodate (open discussion, communication without confrontation) • Partnership (solutions, forgiveness, honesty) When trying to resolve conflicts, clarify your goals, as you will probably share many of the same goals despite of your differences.

Avoid bargaining, as this may lead to each party taking a rigid position which in turn can flare tempers.

When resolving conflicts, remember that their causes may run deep. Sweeping issues under the carpet isn’t going to work in the long term, as old baggage will be brought up each time an argument starts. Try to fully resolve each issue as it comes along. You may find the following method useful: 1. Ask about the other person’s feelings. Your conflict probably isn’t about the issue that caused it to start in the first place. Don’t forget that your goal is to sort out the problem, not win an argument.

2. Ask the other person to define the problem. Stick to solving one problem at a time, that way you can understand each problem as the other person sees it.

3. Express your own feelings.

Be careful to word them carefully, e.g., use phrases such as I feel rather than I think you...

4. Define the problem as you see it. As your feelings come out, the solution may become clearer. Remember that by listening to the other person, you’ll have set the

tone to be listened to also.

5. Create multiple solutions.

Don’t go back to your original agenda. Aim to find alternative or creative solutions that reduce emotions and tension.

6. Rate the possible solutions.

Remember that no one can force an unacceptable solution on the other.

7. Combine and create a mutually acceptable solution.

Create something acceptable to both parties; if this doesn’t work go back to step 1 and ensure both parties are being totally honest.

8. Be sure both parties agree to work towards resolving the issue.

Troubleshooting Problems in Communication Control or Power Issues: Effective communication cannot take place if one person has control over the other or where there is no mutual respect and equality of relationship. To stay in control leads to relational isolation as the underdog reacts in anger at being manipulated or belittled.

Triangulation: Don’t

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19 Steps to Effective Communication 1. See communication as an opportunity to praise, build up, affirm, heal, support and give positive reinforcement, rather than to correct, criticise, tear down, hurt, wound, lash out at. Praise opens doors to further communication, while criticism shuts them down.

2. Remember that actions speak louder than words; non-verbal communication usually is more powerful than verbal communication.

Avoid double messages in which the verbal and the non-verbal messages convey something contradictory. (Credibility gap)

3. Define what is important and stress it; define what is unimportant and ignore it.

Avoid fault-finding.

4. Communicate in ways that show respect for the other person’s worth as a human being. Avoid statements that begin with the words You never or I think you...

5. Be clear and specific. Avoid vagueness.

6. Be realistic and reasonable in your statements. Avoid exaggeration and sentences that begin with You always...

7. Test all your assumptions verbally by asking if they are accurate. Avoid acting until this is done.

8. Recognize that each event can be seen from different points of view. Avoid assuming that other people see things like you do.

9. Recognize that your family members and close friends are experts on you and your behavior. Avoid the tendency to deny their observations about you especially if you are not sure.

10. Know that disagreement can be a meaningful form of communication. Avoid

destructive arguments.

11. Be honest and open about your feelings and viewpoints. Bring up all significant problems even if you are afraid that doing so will disturb another person.

Speak the truth in love.

Avoid sullen silences.

12. Do not put down and/ or manipulate the other person with tactics such as ridicule, interrupting, name-calling, changing the subject, blaming, bugging, sarcasm, criticism, pouting, guilt-inducing, etc. Avoid the one-upmanship game.

13. Be more concerned about how your communication affects others than about what you intended. Avoid getting bitter if you are misunderstood.

14. Accept all feelings and try to understand why others feel and act as they do.

Avoid the tendency to say, You shouldn’t feel like that.

15. Be tactful, considerate, and courteous. Avoid taking advantage of the other person’s feelings.

16. Ask questions and listen carefully. Avoid preaching or lecturing.

17. Do n’t use excuses. Don’t

O

Do not underestimatE Gensan Gazer

It’s More Fun in Kalilangan!

Wonders of the Wild: General Santos City’s Last Frontier The Swedish Family Pettersson Marrakech on My Mind From Settlement District to Metropolis ... And many more stories!

ADS ROCK.

As you look ahead to new relationships, you need to be able to break old and faulty communication patterns to allow for healthier interaction. The use of praise and positive reinforcement will reconstruct wounded and broken self-images and will build self-esteem, particularly in children. By becoming an effective communicator, you will also grow and become a better person which will positively enhance all your relationships.

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Arts & Culture ● Health & Environment ● Lifestyle & Entertainment ● People & Places ● Travel & Leisure

GENERAL SANTOS CITY’S MAGAZINE VOLUME III NUMBER 1

fall for the excuses of others.

18. Speak kindly, politely, and softly. Avoid nagging, yelling or whining.

19. Recognize the value of humor and seriousness.

Avoid destructive teasing.

Arts & Culture ● Health & Environment ● Lifestyle & Entertainment ● People & Places ● Travel & Leisure

REACH 63 NATIONS WITH US.

G GQ GENERAL SANTOS CITY’S MAGAZINE TAKES ON GENSAN AND THE GLOBAL SCENE!

NIX THE NUKE

GENSAN GAZER QUARTERLY APRIL-JUNE 2013

GGQ IN HYDERABAD PARIS DOs & DON’Ts

KASALANG FILIPINO 2013 IN GENSAN SUMMER SHOOT BOOKS, CDs, GADGETS AND MORE!

GGQ, THE NEW GENSAN GAZER, PRESENTS Couples: Keeping the Flame Alive Y Communication in a Relationship Y How THE COUPLES Not to Lose Yourself in a Relationship Y After Infidelity: Make Up or Break Up Y Money Matters in Marriage Y Say it Often, Say it Less Y More!

ISSUE 2013!

Arts & Culture ● Health & Environment ● Lifestyle & Entertainment ● People & Places ● Travel & Leisure

GG er Summ ial Spec12 20

GG Travel The Tales & Travel Trivia Special

GENERAL SANTOS CITY’S MAGAZINE WWW.GENSANGAZER.COM VOLUME III NUMBER 2

Photography by Apple Greatson Francisco

bring in a third party to avoid direct confrontation.

If you have a problem with someone, go directly to that person. Don’t dump your accusations on mutual friends or your children in the hope of winning support in your favor; it leads to more substantial and long-lasting damage, especially when a child is used as a weapon between parents.

GENERAL SANTOS CITY’S MAGAZINE WWW.GENSANGAZER.COM VOLUME III NUMBER 3

MOVIE ADDICTS, RAISE YOUR HAND!

BORACAY/GENSAN/GLAN/ MAASIM (PHILIPPINES) MEKNÈS (MOROCCO) RIO DE JANEIRO (BRAZIL)

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SAKURA IN MY EYES (JAPAN SPECIAL)

SUMMER PART TWO

TOOTING YOUR OWN HORN

MORE STORIES!

A NOISY WORLD LEVI’S ETC.

Kalilangan 2012 does it again!

Tribal Warfare: The Colors of Summer Summer Hues across the Oceans: Boracay, Copacabana, Jardim Botanico Gourmet Chef premieres Sahara Forest Project and many more stories!

Marc Nelson and GG in Boracay

Horse Carriage in Meknès, Morocco

Ana Marie for Summer Part Two

ADS RULE. GGQ • Q2 2013

9

If you feel like you’ve lost touch with the woman you once were, then you need to step back and take a look at what’s really going on in your relationship.

Ironically, the very act of falling in love in the first place feels like one is losing oneself in the romance. At the best of times, this feeling is experienced by both partners. But generally speaking, it tends to be sustained throughout the relationship to a greater extent with women.

Pleasing Too Much Women are taught to value cooperation over confrontation and may find themselves pretending to agree with something rather than challenge it. Part of it may be due to our tendencies toward giving our hearts completely and forgetting about our own needs along the way.

Many of us have learned our peace keeping skills from very early on. These may become so ingrained over time, that it becomes difficult to put ourselves first.

So, if you find yourself suppressing your own dreams and visions for the the sake of wanting to please, you are creating a co-dependency, where your inner happiness depends on successfully pleasing your partner.

As a result, you keep are keeping a vital part of yourself hidden from view.

If your partner doesn’t have the chance to experience the real you, there is no longer a healthy give and take in the relationship. There is an emotional inequity. If this continues, it can lead to hidden resentments and crushed dreams.

bubble bath, dreaming new dreams, etc..

• Develop new friendships and interests to energize yourself and enjoy a new sense of creativity.

Most of all, commit to having more fun in your relationship. Support each other in your individual strengths and encourage each others growth.

Respect each others differences but most of all, be authentic.

When you make your needs a priority in your own life, your relationship will indeed reap the rewards in the healthiest way possible.

• Learn to be more assertive in the moment and state your needs without hurting others.

Grandpa Gord and Grandma Gertie put a sensible spin on expert advice, with a little humor thrown into the mix. They

• Go shopping or spending time with good friends, just goofing around without any worries.

cover topics ranging from pets to parenting, careers to hobbies, relationships to lifestyle, finances to food, and everything in between.

Visit them at www.sensibleguides.com for some simple and straight-from-the-hip advice from people who’ve been around the block a few times.

• Set new boundaries so you can garner more respect and appreciation from your partner. Don’t forget you trained your partner to treat you the way he does now, you just need to notch it up to a new and healthier level.

How Not to Lose Yourself in Your Relationship

by Gord and Gertie Guide

To get back into a healthy balance, give yourself some space. Take some “me” time to be alone and happy. This can be as simple as finding a quiet corner to do something on your own and recharge your sense of self. Here are a few suggestions: • Spend an evening with no interruptions, rejuvenating in your own special way: like reading a special book; luxuriating in a 10

GGQ • Q2 2013

Photo by Clara Natoli

Back into Balance

couplesissue

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After Infidelity:

Make Up or Break Up

couplesissue

by Ruth Martin

Relevance Info Services, an international publisher of quality information, approached me as an expert in relationship issues with regard to evaluating a number of websites that offer methods and tips for saving relationships and preventing a divorce. The fact is that, with respect for all the well-meant information, there are many offerings on the Internet that are not based upon psychological principles. A lot of the presented material cause more harm than any good. They are not composed by experts and that’s certainly not what you want. If you are in serious trouble the situation demands a professional approach by people who are very experienced in solving relationship issues.

This article is about what to do after infidelity.

An infidelity is a betrayal, a loss of trust. It is lying or disloyalty to one’s partner or lover. Infidelity may be sexual or emotional in nature, and typically involves a third person. Infidelity does not necessarily involve physical separation, but can be characterized by emotional detachment as well. Emotional detachment can happen when you lose your partner’s trust, or if you lie to your partner or tell them half-truths. Betraying your partner may inflict a deep pain that is difficult to repair, and sometimes causes irrevocable damage to the relationship that hastens its end. There are many things that can occur in the wake of an infidelity. If you are married, an infidelity could lead to divorce. If you are in a committed relationship, it could lead to a break up.

So what happens after infidelity occurs in your relationship?

There are distinct stages a relationship goes through in the wake of an infidelity.

1. Roller Coaster Stage. This is the stage where strong emotions arise - emotions such as anger and selfblame followed by a period of introspection and appreciation of the relationship.

Just like it says, your emotions go for a roller coaster ride, up and down, round and round and it?s a bit hard to figure out exactly where you are.

2. Moratorium Stage. This stage is a less emotional stage, at least for the person who was cheated upon.

In this stage, the person affected tries to make sense of the betrayal. They may ask for more detail about the affair or retreat into themselves or quietly seek help from others regarding the issue.

3. Trust Building Stage. This stage takes place when the couple has decided to stay together. During this stage, the couple really tries to make their marriage work.

They decide that a continued commitment to their relationship is important and with time, eventually forgiveness and trust can be achieved.

After an infidelity occurs, you may still find yourself often doubting your partner. Don?t lose heart, there is hope. Here are some signs that may indicate if a person is still worthy of your love.

• Expresses sincere remorse and regret for cheating on you • Heartfelt apologies feel true when you hear them • Accepts total blame for his or her betrayal • Cuts off all contact with the third party • Shows a renewed appreciation, admiration, respect and devotion to only you • Displays a willingness and

openness to talk about what happened • Is willing and eager to go into marriage counseling with you If both of you are willing to participate in a deep, open, and honest conversation regarding your relationship and how you would like it to progress, there is a good chance you will be able to work through your issues.

If, on the other hand, your partner is not open to discussing these things with you and not demonstrating any of the possible reconcilement signs listed above, it may be time to cut your losses and get out.

Additional signs that it might be time to end the relationship are: your partner seems to be more agitated than usual and seems to emotionally and physically withdraw from you. They may go out alone more often and may be making clandestine phone calls or working late hours. You might even receive anonymous phone calls at the house.

If several of these things are occurring, then most probably your partner is cheating on you. If you can find concrete evidence of this infidelity, then it?s probably a good idea to break up. A relationship that is based on lies, lacks trust and lack of commitment is doomed to fail.

After an infidelity occurs, be aware of any signs that may indicate your partner?s willingness to stay and work it out or clear intention to follow along the path of continued betrayal. Just be careful and pay attention. Make the best decision for you.

Ruth Martin, who wrote this article for Relevance Info Services, would be pleased to guide you should you deal with the process after infidelity. She invites you to visit Stop-A-Divorce-Info.com.

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How to Handle Money Matters in Marriage

by Hesbon Kerongo

It is good to know what your spouse does with all his or her money but it is not necessary.

Make life easier in your marriage and avoid quarrels by understanding what value your partner puts to money.

Financial issues are extremely sensitive in most relationships, even more so than sexual matters.

The secret to avoiding financial conflicts, especially for married couples and any other couple staying together, is to plan for it well.

This is how to do it: 1. Know how much is needed for basic needs in the house and how much to save in your joint account monthly.

2. Any other needs or wants to take care of together should be added up too.

3. Once you’ve added up all your needs, wants, and savings that you need to take care of together, then share the costs depending on how much each one earns. Make 14

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sure that the one who earns more contributes a higher percentage of the cost.

4. Whatever is left after the cost is shared is for the individual to know how or what to spend on. One should not nag their partner concerning what is left because apart from the normal basic needs we have our own individual needs that are separate from the general needs and which we need to appreciate.

5. Allow your partner to be who they want to be or do what they need to do with the rest of their money and you will definitely have some peace in the house.

Try this short recipe and see how it works wonders in you relationship. It has worked wonders in mine.

Hesbon Kerongo is a widely recognized personal growth bloggers on the Internet. He invites you to visit www.personal-growthtowards-success.com.

Why Do I Get So Upset with My Partner?

I need some relationship help. While I love my husband with all my heart, sometimes it’s just so frustrating being married to him. When I feel that he’s ignoring me, I get so upset, and he’s usually surprised by the intensity of my reaction. Why do I get so upset with him? (Lynn, Carlsbad CA) Dr. Rich Nicastro: It’s extremely distressing to feel as if your words and actions have no impact (or no longer matter) to your spouse/ partner. To think that someone you love deeply is no longer engaged fully in the relationship or interested in what’s important to you can be extremely painful.

When you feel like your partner is not being responsive to you and your needs, two results are likely: 1. Initially, to have some kind of impact on your partner you may up the ante -- yelling, becoming more provocative, elevating your emotional responses, acting in ways that are uncharacteristic of you.

In attachment literature these reactions are called protest behaviors.

2. When you feel ignored for extended periods, your sense of despair can turn into feelings of hopelessness. You give up on trying to engage your partner and begin to retreat -- a form of self-protective behavior (in essence, you’re cutting your loses) -- showing indifference,

withdrawal behaviors, and disengaging from the relationship in general (and the responsibilities that are part of it).

Typically a protest reaction isn’t random. Protest behaviors (getting really upset when your partner isn’t responding in predictable ways that make you feel secure in the relationship) occur in a particular context, and the trigger is usually feeling anxious about losing the security of your relationship.

Let’s break down this reaction: An unresponsive/disengaged/uninterested partner >> triggers increased anxiety and worry in the other, who then >> attempts to reengage the unresponsive partner (e.g., We need to talk or What’s wrong?) >> and if the other is still not responsive, protest behaviors are triggered. Your protest behaviors (perceived as nagging, pestering, yelling, or some kind of increased emotionality like anger) are in effect attempts to try and correct the problem.

Marital/relationship problems arise when these temporary reactions are not addressed and become ingrained.

Whenever we allow a loved one special access to our hearts, feeling ignored by this person will feel like a major deal.

Richard Nicastro, PhD, psychologist and relationship coach, has over 15 years experience helping individuals/couples live more fulfilling lives. His relationship advice has appeared on TV/radio and in magazines. He invites you to visit relationship-advice-expert.com.

GADGET SPEAK uuu

Notable Note II Samsung’s Galaxy Note 2 -- an Android phone-tablet hybrid and Galaxy S3-look-alike -- simply begs the question: is bigger actually better?

Having already served up the improved S-Pen technology with the bigger screen surroundings of the Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1, the Samsung Galaxy Note 2 ‘phablet’ brings more inches, power and multi-tasking prowess to the party with a device that fits snug in the pocket.

Build: Taking clear design cues from the Samsung Galaxy S3 smartphone, think of the Note 2 as a kind of super-sized version of the flagship handset, swapping straight lines for sleeker curves and a white paint job “inspired by ‘nature”, so the marketing blurb tells us.

At 9.4mm thick, it’s slimmer than the original Note (9.65mm) but not as slender as the Samsung Galaxy S3 (8.6mm), but at 182.5g heavier than the original Galaxy Note (178g).

In terms of the key physical features, you’ll find the rounder home button at the bottom of the screen flanked by two capacitive buttons. The power button is situated on the right edge of the device with the volume rocker on the opposite side while the charging micro HDMI cable port sits at the bottom of the handset.

The 3.5mm headphone jack sits at the top and hiding at the bottom right hand corner is the new, more accurate S-Pen. At the back sits the 8-Megapixel camera with flash alongside it and the loud speaker at the other end.

Behind the replaceable cover you’ll find the microSD card slot which can expand storage to 64GB and the microSIM slot which will give you phone functionality.

Putting this to your ear to make a call is still likely to draw strange looks, but the more curved design actually makes it feel not so abnormally large in the hand. It does seem

more suited to a handbag, manbag or inside jacket pocket than a pair of jeans though.

Features: Android 2.3 Gingerbread out of the box, the first Galaxy Note is now Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich friendly but the Note 2 actually has Android 4.1 Jelly Bean update out of the box.

Samsung’s TouchWiz UI is overlaid on top bringing seven homescreens instead of the Android standard of five, its own web browser, app drawer and branded apps like S-Suggest and S-Planner scattered all over the place.

You can also reap the benefits of new Jelly Bean features including Google Now and expect a speedier UI performance and reduced lag thanks to Project Butter.

Following on from the Note 10.1 the advanced smart pen is based around the same tech found in the Wacom digitizer which means you can expect improved pressure sensitivity while you are being creative.

When you pull the S-Pen out from its compartment, it will instantly launch a selection of optimized apps and it is likely that S-Note will be your first port of call.

Previously just a place to doodle and take notes, the application feels more useful in its latest guise adding the ability to add videos and pictures to documents, support handwriting recognition and Wolfram Alpha integration for working out formulas.

Other S-Pen apps include S Planner (calendar) and integration with the email client, but it is likely that S-Note is where you’ll appreciate how handy it is as a brainstorming tool.

Multi-tasking is another feather in the Note 2’s impressive bow for those who are so busy they need to have two applications running at once on the same screen that can interact with each other.

the original Note. You can expect all picture editing modes and features seen on the S3 including Face Detection and Best Photo.

The flash is pretty bright on first use as unsuspecting pictorial targets found out but does manage to pick out colours impressively. Things can get a little blurry the more you zoom in, but it is up there with some of the best smartphone snappers on the market.

The f/2.6 aperture aids low lit photography and while it is not quite as impressive as the f/2.4 aperture found on the iPhone 5, it still does an admirable job of picking out objects in the night. It’s perhaps worth noting the HDR mode which aims to pick out more detail in images is also included but we didn’t notice a substantial difference from pictures taken in normal camera mode.

At a maximum 1080p for video recording, Note 2 certainly fares better than Note 10.1, and is more on par with the shooting performance of the S3, while being able to take pictures while filming.

On the connectivity front, it is much of the same with new

additions including Bluetooth 4.0 up from Bluetooth 3.0 and Samsung’s take on NFC, S Beam which means you can ‘bump’ phones with another S-Beam packing handset to transfer files like music and videos. However it wasn’t quite as easy as it sounds when we tried it out.

Screen: The screen has gone from 5.3 to 5.5-inches, still with HD Super AMOLED quality, so you can expect deep blacks and brilliantcolors on 16:9 ratio -- great for watching movies.

The resolution may have dropped from 1,280x800 to 1,280x720 and spread across a bigger screen, but it still delivers excellent levels of clarity particularly for video. With a screen that big, it’s good to have some added protection and its Corning Gorilla Glass 2 should help protect against everyday bumps and bruises.

Performance: Swapping a dualcore processor for more power-hungry 1.6GHz quadcore innards plus 2GB RAM, Galaxy Note 2 is significantly zippier than its predecessor, making it ideal for the new multitasking features, and

Camera: In the camera department, there’s a respectable 8-Megapixel rear-facing snapper with auto focus that can be adjusted on the screen and an LED Flash.

Interestingly, the frontfacing camera that’s capable of HD recording is now just 1.9-Megapixels down slightly from the 2-Megapixel one on GGQ • Q2 2013

15

is lightning-quick in loading up web pages and flicking through home screens.

With 4G capability, things can only get speedier as well, so hopefully it’ll be added to the 4G-ready smartphones list.

In terms of call quality, Note 2 puts in a decent performance, and with noise cancelling tech and dual mics on board, delivers clarity that ensures everything comes through loud and clear on both ends of the phone.

With the extra screen estate and array of new power-sapping features, it’s perhaps no surprise that the Note 2 hosts a bigger 3,100mAh battery (up from 2,500mAh) to cope with the extra demand.

There’s not really many places you can fault the Samsung Galaxy Note 2. It’s made a significant improvement in most departments and does more with the design to hide some of its hulking size. We loved the S3-inspired design, the improved S-Pen integration and overall speedier performance thanks to the quadcore processor and addition of Android 4.1 Jelly Bean.

It really does come down to the issue of size. It’s a great performing smartphone but you are going to have to accept looking a bit silly putting this against your ear in public.

We still feel that the S-Pen technology is more suited and beneficial to a larger device like the Galaxy Note 10.1 tablet, but if you’re sold on the super-powered stylus and can deal with the inevitable stares, this is a great smartphone.

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GGQ • Q2 2013

If you think making newsletters and brochures that make a lasting impression is easy, think again.

If you want to leave it to the experts and stick to your job description, contact us without delay.

gensangazer@gmail.com +63-83-554-7055

GENSAN SCENE uuu

Gensan’s Kasalang Filipino 2013 a Success Kasalang Filipino 2013 was on to a great start with the ceremonial setting free of butterflies at the finely primped up atrium of Gaisano Mall General Santos City in February this year.

Photos by Omar Gallinero Photography Text by O. M. Desto

Just like letting go of a pair of doves at the altar after the wedding vows, releasing these winged creatures signify the passing on to the skies and the heavens beyond of the prayers and best intentions of the newly joined, as well as their families and well-wishers.

Such symbolism was used to open the three-day bridal event, Gensan’s Kasalang Filipino 2013, extending the concerted hope for prosperity and growth to each and every one of the wedding industry players in attendance.

The Kasalang Filipino showcase this year once again put to the forefront and in the limelight the drive, ingenuity and talents of Gensan’s very own wedding event specialists and suppliers.

Orman Ortega Manansala, head and founder of Project O! Consultants, said, “This is the most awaited event in the SocSKSarGen area as this has become a rich source of information and contacts for anybody who is planning to get married. Suffice it to say, it’s every wedding planner’s one-stop-shop fantasy.”

Kasalang Filipino not only featured a pre-nuptial and

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wedding-related trade fair, but also a competition and a couple of beauty and styling presentations. Ever Bilena stirred the competitive spirit of participating local stylists with its bridal makeup contest.

Jacque Kate Duguil of D’ Hue Bliss Beauty Bar in Gensan also demonstrated airbrush makeup techniques to a captive audience of makeup artists and advocates.

Kasalang Filipino sa Gensan came to a close on its third and final day with a bridal fashion show staged by Crislene Plus Dress Shop of Davao City.

Kasalang Filipino sa Gensan is the opening leg of Kasalang Filipino 2013, a nationwide wedding and tourism fair roadshow that link key cities in the Philippines with the aim of promoting the local wedding industry.

Apart from Gensan, the following are the participating cities of the Kasalang Filipino 2013 roadshow: Angeles (Pampanga), Subic, Dumaguete, Davao City, Cagayan de Oro, San Pablo (Laguna), and Cebu.

Kasalang Filipino sa GenSan is presented by Kasal.com, ABS-CBN Regional Network Group, and Project O! Consultants.

The event is made possible

by Ever Bilena Cosmetics, Goldilocks Bakeshop, Ariel Javelosa Photography, and the following media partners: Lifestyle Network, Sky Cable, DWRR 101.9, My Only Radio, Metro Weddings, Metro Home and Entertaining, Food Magazine, The Manila Times, Business Mirror, LocalDirect.com.ph and ByahengPinas.com.

It is supported by Gaisano Mall of Gensan, Rep. Emmanuel Manny Pacquiao, Sun City Suites, Family Country Hotel & Convention Center, Ellis Suites, Jemaca, Mount Sabrina Resort, Aunt Ludi’s Bakeshoppe, Sushimoto, and Asia United Bank, with GGQ as print media partner in General Santos.

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MUSIC MIXX uuu FADE by YO LA TENGO

album is more sentimental than punchy – Before We Run (horns) and Is That Enough (strings) tug more markedly on the heart strings, and in album highlight Cornelia And Jane, Georgia Hubley’s vocals are stunning, evoking that cool after-hours feeling.

Save for Well You Better, however, the album rarely strays away from its almost lazy, slo-mo dusky tempo.

If you’re not in that zone, chances are it’s going to be a bit annoying. On the whole this recording offers much to be pleased about, much like a comfortable pair of slippers -- no more, no less.

Music lovers are fickle and easy to bore, but Yo La Tengo (“I Have It” in Spanish) can carry on with the attention span with understated lullabies that dwell on the edgy and the bittersweet. Their new

Tracks: 01 Ohm / 02 Is That Enough / 03 Well You Better / 04 Paddle Forward / 05 Stupid Things / 06 I’ll Be Around / 07 Cornelia And Jane / 08 Two Trains / 09 The Point Of It / 10 Before We Run

MAKING MIRRORS

by GOTYE

reggae beats thrown in.

Contradictions, too. While title track Making Mirrors is cut far too short (just 60 seconds), the tribal drums at the end of Smoke And Mirrors continues for far too long--the first one leaving you hanging, the latter outstaying the welcome.

Easily our other favorite tracks here are Save Me (remarkable drums), and Bronte, with its Bon Iver-esque vocals hushing on and on, “We will be with you.”

With two albums released in Australia, Wouter Wally De Backer is finally breaking into the mainstream with this third, this time under his stage name Gotye, pronounced go-tee-yay.

Making Mirrors features the exceptionally outstanding star single Somebody That I Used To Know, an infectiously break-up ditty featuring New Zealand singer-songwriter Kimbra on vocals. The beats and xylophone are sublime, the vocals sounding like Sting & The Police, incidentally not its only influences. A bit of Eels can be heard in Easy Way Out, while hints of James Morrison and Stevie Wonder reverberate in In Your Light and I Feel Better, respectively. State Of The Art has odd, low-sounding vocal effects, much like OK Computer’s Fitter Happier but with 20

GGQ • Q2 2013

Tracks: 01 Making Mirrors / 02 Easy Way Out / 03 Somebody That I Used to Know / 04 Eyes Wide Open / 05 Smoke And Mirrors / 06 I Feel Better / 07 In Your Light / 08 State Of The Art / 09 Don’t Worry, We’ll Be Watching You / 10 Giving Me A Chance / 11 Save Me / 12 Bronte

GGQ’s Top Five Summer Sounds 1. Holy Fire by Foals 2. Amok by Atoms For Peace 3. Delta Machine

by Depeche Mode 4. The 20/20 Experience by Justin Timberlake 5. Native by OneRepublic

The World Until Yesterday: What Can We Learn from Traditional Societies?

by Jared Diamond

BOOKS ttt BUZZ

Most of us take for granted the features of our modern society, from air travel and telecommunications to literacy and obesity. Yet for nearly all of its six million years, human society had none of these things.

While the gulf that divides us from our primitive ancestors may seem unbridgeably wide, we can glimpse much of our former lifestyle in those largely traditional societies...

The World Until Yesterday provides a mesmerizing firsthand picture of the human past as it had been for millions of years—a past that has mostly vanished—and considers what the differences between that past and our present mean for our lives today.

Diamond doesn’t romanticize traditional societies—after all, we are shocked by some of their practices—but he finds that their solutions to universal human problems have much to teach us. A characteristically provocative, enlightening, and entertaining book... essential and delightful reading.

layered, and elegiac novel is a powerful evocation of our contemporary moment... a moving story of how we got here.

A Hologram for the King

by Dave Eggers In a rising Saudi Arabian city, far from weary, recessionscarred America, a struggling businessman pursues a last-ditch attempt to stave off foreclosure, pay his daughter’s college tuition, and finally do something great. In A Hologram for the King, Eggers takes us around the world to show how one man fights to hold himself and his splintering family together in the face of the global economy’s galeforce winds. This taut, richly

Inferno

by Dan Brown

In The Da Vinci Code, Angels & Demons, and The Lost Symbol, Dan Brown masterfully fused history, art, codes, and symbols. In this riveting new thriller, Brown returns to his element and has crafted his highest-stakes novel to date.

In the heart of Italy, Harvard symbology professor Robert Langdon is drawn into a harrowing world centered on one of history’s most enduring and mysterious literary masterpieces: Dante’s Inferno. Against this backdrop, Langdon battles a chilling adversary and grapples with an ingenious riddle that pulls him into a landscape of classic art, secret passageways, and futuristic science. Drawing from Dante’s dark epic poem, Langdon races to find answers and decide whom to trust... before the world is irrevocably altered.

Say it Often Or Say it Less here are only two arguments to whether or not one should say the phrase “I love you” often.

T

One: You can say it sparingly, saving it only for those intimate occasions or special moments when you truly want to tell another person the depth of your love and affection. You choose this argument because you believe that when you say these words all the time and for al-

most all situations, the phrase tends to become very routinary and commonplace, in the end losing its special and profound meaning altogether.

Or, two: You can say it as often as you feel like it -on the phone, by email or Web chat, after meeting in person, while saying hello or goodbye, and in countless other venues and situations you can imagine. You choose

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Iyou. love

Uhm...

this because if you believe that you feel it, no number of repetitions could possibly depreciate the sentiment or render it cheap, stale, or ordinary.

equally meritorius; both schools of thought hold the same intention to heart, and approach the idea not on an entirely dissimilar premise.

The two arguments are

The problem, however, is when you and your partner don’t think the same way on the matter, and one expects the other to reciprocate the other’s wishes -- to no avail.

Congratulations on the 14th Tuna Festival and 44th General Santos City Charter Anniversary!

It’s simple yet tricky, but these pointers may come in handy: • Find a middle ground, and be open and honest in meeting half-way.

• When you have to say the words on a whim, do not expect the other to say it automatically back to you and then begrudge the non-reciprocation.

• Similarly, say it to express yourself, not to get affirmation or reassurance.

(A smile or hug, even a “thank you” is a fair response.)

• Let the other find the moment to express himself/ herself, and don’t fish for the statement just because you want to hear it yourself.

2nd Floor, Meetrovi Building, South Osmeña Street, General Santos City, Philippines 9500 +63-83-553 3377 | www.camella.com.ph | camellageneralsantos@gmail.com | facebook.com/camellageneralsantos

• You can always tell if your partner loves you. You really don’t have to hear him/her say it as often as you expect or demand. omance in relationships feeds on these verbal expressions of affection, but too much routine and repetition may not always be good in the long run. (WM)

R

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TRAVEL TALES & TRIVIA uuu

Paris Dos & Don’ts

The allure of Paris, the City of Light, can be overpowering.

Charming cafés, posh boutiques, and top-caliber museums make Paris the Gisele Bündchen of metropolises -- gorgeous, elegant, brave and bold.

Your choices, however, can make or break your Parisian visit.

By Armando Nicolas P J Clockwise from below: Seafood fare at the Latin Quarter, Louvre’s glass pyramid, the writer surrounded by artworks, Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, the elegant Angelina cafe at Versailles, Louis XIV’s opulent gardens, after the rain in Paris, and Le Louvre’s great halls of art.

Whether a repeat visitor or a first-timer, you can learn from these short list of basic musts and must-nots:

1. Travel on foot and/or take a train, not a taxi.

Just like in Gensan, taxis in Paris are hard to come by and can’t be hailed on the street on a whim: you need to book in advance or find a taxi stand. And unlike in Gensan, Parisian taxi fare can cause a serious dent on your wallet.

The way is flâner, to stroll, or more like to go around the city on foot in order to experience it. The city center is just a few kilometers wide, and the perks of walking around include witnessing drama and romance transpiring in sidewalk cafés, haute window shopping, and burning off that second helping of crème brûlée.

Take the Métro if you’re going farther or in a hurry. You’re never over 500 meters from the closest station, and it’s way cheaper than a taxi.

2. Dress up like the locals.

Whatever you do and however hot the weather is, never wear shorts in Paris unless

you really want to be looked down upon as a clueless tourist. Leave behind those white trainers as well. Generally, locals do not dress like they’re going to run a marathon (unless they are in a marathon).

Go for the uncluttered, coordinated look. You can never go wrong with black. Accessorize with a contrasting scarf, hat, or jewel, but never all three. Most importantly, see to it that all fits well, and nothing sags out of place or squeezes a body part out of shape. Finish it off with a jacket and your best pair of shoes.

3. Love the Louvre, but not too much.

The ticket lines to Musée d’Orsay and the Louvre, the most sought-after museums in Paris, can be painfully kilometric, so a good part of your day just may be laid to wasteful waiting, so make sure to come early. Or if the weather is great, why not check out the immediate vicinity instead (Jardin des Tuileries and Place de la Concorde immediately come to mind)? Or if you’re really dead set on a museum hunt, then check out the city’s

smaller museums: Musée de l’Orangerie, Musée Marmottan, and Musée Rodin, as well as museums that focus on and currency, fashion, and wine.

Musée Carnavalet, for one, offers you an experience of Paris’ history, from its ancient origins to the fashion-forward capital of sophistication it is today. Its permanent collection is free, allowing you to saunter through fin-de-siècle drawing rooms and delicately reconstructed baroque interiors without spending a single euro. It’s also free to enter the classic museums of Paris on the first Sunday of the month, but do brace yourself for the stampede!

4. See a private fashion show at Galeries Lafayette.

Just book seats by visiting www.galerieslafayette.com. The Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann hosts the private fashion show in a private lounge on the 7th floor of its grandiose building every Friday at 3 pm.

It’s one intimate runway showcase right in the heart of the fashion capital of the world, and your seat is completely free! Make sure to

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reserve early, and do come in your fashionable best.

5. Admire Eiffel Tower, near or far.

Millions flock to visit Tour Eiffel -- forming a tiresome bee line to get tickets, and ride the lift to reach the top and again much later to return to the ground -- only to find out that the Paris skyline from up there looks a bit weird without the Eiffel landmark, and then they realize, oh, it’s because you’re on top of the tower itself!

Enjoy dinner with an Eiffel view instead, but know that places featuring such a view will charge more than those that do not. A daytime picnic by Champs de Mars below Eiffel is nice, too. You can bring your own bites and bubbles (say, brie and champagne), place a blanket on the green lawn among the flower beds, wait for the Eiffel light show at dusk, and enjoy the view with some company. Beware of touts and pickpockets, however -- and as in everywhere, never flaunt your jewelry and gadgets.

6. Visit Versailles.

Pick a nice weather and take the RER C train to Versailles-Rive Gauche station; from there it’s a only a few minutes walk to the fabled Château de Versailles, where you can admire Louis XIV’s opulence. Don’t miss to meander around the gardens; in the spring and summer they are a sight to behold (and smell).

Again, beware of pickpockets. They love packed places and tight queues, and whatever you do, do not squeeze through a crowd to take a picture. You’ll never know what you’ll lose when both your hands are busy with the camera.

7. Walk in the rain.

It’s not everyday you get caught in the rain in Paris, so when one raincloud tries to spoil your day in town, walk in the rain and enjoy it.

But don’t do it without making sure your cellphone and camera are secure somewhere on you, and see to it that when you walk into the train car or your hotel lobby you’re not dripping wet all over the place.

Once a year , La Nuit Blanche opens Paris’ doors for a night-time cultural feast -with galleries, monuments and swimming pools open to the public for free all night long.

8. Enjoy Notre Dame and the Latin Quarter.

The famous arch is located at the end of Champs-Elysées, at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle, a large circular square in the heart of Paris.

The top of the arch features a viewing platform from where you can admire La Defense, Champs-Elysées, and Sacré-Coeur. Do take one of the underpasses to the arch as it is too dangerous to cross the street. There is no elevator so be prepared to walk up 234 steps to the top. The way down should be easier.

No first trip to Paris is ever complete without a visit to this marvel of gothic architecture. One of the most singular and beautiful cathedrals of Europe, Notre Dame Cathedral’s dramatic towers, spire, stained glass and statuary are guaranteed to take your breath away. Witness firsthand the spot that was once the pulse of medieval Paris, and that took over 100 years of hard labor to complete. Climbing the north tower to see Paris from the hunchback Quasimodo’s vantage is a must, too.

Nearby is the Sorbonne University in the Latin Quarter. Sorbonne has hosted countless great thinkers, including philosophers René Descartes, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Simone de Beauvoir. Enjoy a drink on the café terrace in front of the college before exploring the winding little streets of the Latin Quarter behind it.

9. Enjoy the summer’s free Paris attractions.

La Fête de la Musique is a free musical extravaganza where amateur and professional musicians perform and party in free concerts every June 21st. Beats from rock to jazz to pop (and everything else in between) blares on all day (and night) long.

Parts of Paris transform into a city beach during the summer months as the banks of the River Seine are covered with white sand and decked with sun chairs, portable wading pools, and beer coolers.

Add rastah music and bikinis, and the tropical summer mood is complete.

10. Climb the Arc de Triomphe.

Top, from right: Latin Quarter street; Notre Dame candles, gothic arch and hall; Lafayette models, my partner in crime at Galeries Lafayette, Canal-St. Martin, and a subway interchange.

Bottom, from top: the River Seine and Tour Eiffel in the background, Lady Liberty by the river, Parisian sunset, and French-style macarons.

11. See /do/feel more.

Hike up to Parc des ButtesChaumont, Paris’ steepest park.

With abundant birdlife, rocky reliefs, and a landscaped waterfall, it’s easy to forget you’re in the busy French capital.

Feast your eyes on the finest local produce at Marché d’Aligre. Mountains of cheese, artisan butchers and a field of flower stalls can send you into sensory overload after wandering through a few aisles.

Have a glass of Bordeaux and get your hands floury on some crusty baguette.

Rub shoulders with literary greats like Proust, Balzac, and Wilde at Père Lachaise Cemetery. Jim Morrison also lies here, his grave strewn with cigarettes, flower garlands and other offerings from rock fans. Montparnasse Cemetery, final resting place of numerous intellectual and glamorous Parisians, is less ostentatious than Père Lachaise but perfect for a serene stroll. Get closer than you ever thought possible to Sartre, Beauvoir, and Beckett.

Other notable excursions: Canal St-Martin, Arènes de Lutèce, La Promenade Plantée, and Le Marais. Explore, enjoy!

GGQ • Q2 2013

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COOKING CORNER uuu

Making a Perfect Grilled Chicken Grilling can be a fun, family activity during weekends. Spend your lazy afternoons in your backyard, and take out those grillers for a grilled chicken for your dinner.

By Angelica Florin

Learning how to grill is not as hard as you would see on television. All you need is the proper temperature for your griller especially if you are using an electric grill. Nevertheless, if you have the conventional griller, try to find some dried wood or charcoal. Ignite the coals or wood by placing crumpled papers below each coal and then set the papers on fire. Do not pour gasoline on the coals or dried wood. The smoke coming from the coals will give a gasoline-like aroma to your grilled meat. These are your best weapons in grilling.

Choose the best part of the chicken. I usually use chicken thighs and legs since they are the fattiest parts of the chicken.

These parts will yield a juicy, barbecued chicken. Although these may sound unhealthy, the taste is incredibly delicious. Some would still prefer grilling chicken breasts with the skins on.

Before you start grilling your chicken, do not forget to marinate them at least overnight.

Yes, overnight. This is because the longer you marinade your meat, the better absorption of flavors happens. I prefer to use store-bought marinades as these save much preparation time in the kitchen. The downside of most readymade marinades is their high sodium content. But if you have time, you can make your own marinade from scratch. In the recipe below, the marinade and the chicken were

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GGQ • Q2 2013

simmered together to speed up the process of grilling and also to let the flavors marry together. I like Asian-style marinades such as this: For every kilo of chicken: • 1 cup light soy sauce (available in the Asian section of grocery stores) • 2-3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice • 4 tablespoons brown sugar • 1 medium stalk of lemon grass (pounded) • 3 cloves crushed garlic • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional) Combine all the above ingredients in a heavy skillet and let it boil for two minutes. Add in the chicken and simmer for another five minutes. Drain the chicken in a colander and reserve the marinade for basting during grilling. Basting is necessary so that the chicken won’t dry out. The marinade can also be made as a sauce by making a basic roux. This is simply done by placing a tablespoon of butter on a non-stick pan and let it cook for minutes. Pour over the marinade and whisk until the sauce thickens. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings accordingly.

You can also opt to make a dry, rub marinade. This dry rub is comprised of herbs and spices and a little oil. For chicken, dried or fresh tarragon and rosemary blends

together very well. If you want a spicier, grilled chicken, add a pinch of chili powder and cayenne pepper. There are limitless marinades for grilled chicken. A little imagination and creativity are the keys.

Make sure that when grilling the chicken, never let the flame flare up. This will result in burnt chicken. This does not appeal both to the eyes and to the palate. If this occurs, sprinkle a little water over the flame. Some also like their grillers to be covered during the grilling process.

Personally, I like mine uncovered. There is just something about the smoke which is, for me, the essence of grilling.

Grilled foods are best served warm, right off the grill with some salads or other vegetables of your choice.

The author invites you to visit www.feelhungry.com for more cooking tips.

Low-Sodium Soy Sauce There are plenty of options to be had if you prefer to use low-sodium soy sauce in your cooking or on the dining table. They may be pricier than regular ones, but what’s a few more for the healthier alternative?

couplesissue

Bassin Octogonal at the Jardin des Tuileries

Gimma, at the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel Galeries Lafayette

Hudson Taylor at a video shoot, La Basilique du Sacré Coeur de Montmartre The editor, a day after GGQ was born

Decorative Arts Museum

PariS

Snapshots

by Gimma Samalca

Quai Saint-Michel GGQ • Q2 2013

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ENVIRONMENT DEBATE uuu

Nixing Nuclear Energy Japan backtracked on an ambitious plan to shut all of its nuclear reactors but Germany is blasting forward with an effort to do just that by 2022.

By William A. Collins Atoms make Those turbines fly; Just not safe For you or I. You’ll be pleased to hear that after decades of diligent negotiations, nuclear weapons are no longer the greatest danger to the world today.

You’ll be less pleased to hear that the top danger now

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GGQ • Q2 2013

is nuclear power. Yes, weapons still make a great excuse to invade nations allegedly on the cusp of acquiring them, especially if they’ve got large oil deposits, but no one is really much concerned anymore about owners actually using them. Even “crazy” nations aren’t into suicide.

Atomic safety is now less the province of government and more of corporations.

That’s why atoms have become more worrisome when used to generate electric rather than political power.

Pin-striped moguls don’t fret about social consequences.

Their medium-term outlook only extends as far as the next quarterly dividend, and there’s no future that registers beyond their own golden-parachuted retirement.

In an industry where consequences can be very long-lasting indeed, and hard to measure, this attitude isn’t healthy for people or any living thing requiring clean air and water.

Take Japan. Responding intelligently to the Fukushima nuclear disaster, the government concluded that “nuclear safety” is an oxymoron and announced a goal of going nuke-free by 2040. That plan, which unleashed powerful

opposition from Japanese business leaders, lasted about a week.

No such nobility has emerged, even for a moment, in this country. Not only has the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) plodded sturdily along its assigned track of whitewashing the industry, but during the Obama administration’s first term it approved construction of two new reactors, the first in 30 years. To make matters worse, the White House backs nuclear loan guarantees, without which no company would ever attempt to build a reactor.

But even without a Fukushima of our own — yet — nukes still cause plenty of problems. The biggest continues to be where to put the waste. The proposed dump site at Yucca Mountain in Nevada got scratched, but towns with atomic plants still need to put that radioactive stuff somewhere.

The traditional repository for toxins has been Indian reservations and poverty-ridden lands in Africa and Asia. But each of these victims is becoming more testy, especially the Indians, who in many cases also have to put up with the deadly mining of uranium.

Meanwhile, further trou-

bling evidence mounts. French scientists have announced that childhood leukemia is much higher in the neighborhood of nuclear reactors. Further, radioactive tuna from Japan’s shores are now carrying radiation across the Pacific, and Japan itself is still struggling to identify which foods are safe to eat and which are not.

Now you would think that a sane country, as we often pretend to be, might take these lessons to heart and begin winding down its nuclear industry in favor of wind and solar. But greed never rests or dies. Global warming is now the corporate rallying cry since nukes don’t emit so much CO2, as if that offsets all the other environmental risks.

And our government and the media solemnly nod their heads at this new argument.

But nixing our nukes isn’t an outlandish idea. Germany responded to the Fukushima disaster by jumping forward with plans to ditch all nuclear energy by 2022. And it’s still got the most reliable grid in Europe, with fewer blackouts than we get here in the United States.

OtherWords.org columnist William A. Collins is a former US state representative and past mayor of Norwalk, Connecticut.

ACHIEVERS ABROAD uuu

SoCot Native Honored as Special Educator in New Jersey Armand Jess Arana, a graduate of Dole Philippines School (Polomolok, South Cotabato) and St. Joseph’s College (Quezon City), with a Master’s Degree in Special Education, Major in Autism, was awarded by Universal Progressive Therapy (UPT) based in New Jersey the Certificate of Excellence for his exceptional contribution to the special education of children with special needs and his

Leftmost photo: Armand Jesse Arana in a lighter moment with Frederick Steven “Freddie” Roach, American boxing trainer, in Las Vegas. Left: Armand, with wife Eleanor and daughter Carmela.

outstanding performance as a special educator.

UPT is a private institution that provides communication, behavioral, and socialization training to children with autism and related conditions throughout New Jersey. The organization provides private treatments and services to the New Jersey Early Intervention Systems (NJEIS), New Jersey Department of Education (NJ DOE), New Jersey Division of Child Behavioral Health Systems, and the Department of Defense Demo Program.

“When Mr. Arana was working for us as a special educator, he demonstrated his expertise in the field in each

child he was assigned to. He has shown extraordinary abilities with the effectiveness of his holistic approach in teaching strategies, combining creative play, Applied Behavioral Analyis (ABA), and Sensory Integration Techniques (SIT) in every child he instructs,” a spokesperson for UPT said.

“In addition, Mr. Arana helped developed our training methods. He brought with him his expertise and shared his successful training program. We tried Mr. Arana’s program with the the students that were placed under his care,and the parents and evaluators reported stunning improvement.

“As such, we had Mr. Arana train our special educators in the training methods he devised. We merged our tried and tested methods with his, and we have found unprecedented success. Mr. Arana definitely made a major contribution to our organization.

He not only developed our program to the benefit of our students but he also helped enlighten us as educators on how to be better in our field.

“As an organization, we encourage our educators to excel at their jobs in every way they can. Hence, we give due recognition to our special educators whose performance have been extraordinary.”

NOEW !

N P O GGQ • Q2 2013

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BEAUTY BUZZ uuu

by Romarie Ivy Cunanan

What Women Want: Fashion Show

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In celebration of Women’s Month last March, SM City General Santos invited me to their What Women Want: Fashion Show, and to host the said activity no less. March is Women’s Month, a time to salute all women in the world, and in SM’s small way, through SM City’s beauty and fashion campaigns. I was very happy to receive the invitation, and excited at the same time.

Women’s Month aims to empower today’s women, and widen the area for their participation. The celebratory fashion show was attended by fabulous women in the locality--all stunning ang prepped up for the show.

For a change I straigntened my hair, wore my hot pink ruffles detail dress and black heels.

Here are some tips for fashion show appearance: 1. Choose the right heels and make sure you’re comfortable to walk in them.

2. Apply loose shimmer powder to your legs, so that it’ll look more toned and glowy on the catwalk.

3. While waiting for the show, just relax backstage.

4. You have to know where your points are. If you stop an the midpoint of the runway, the photographers will get a pleasing head-totoe shot. At runway’s end,

it’s a bodice shot, so you must give them a beautiful face. Going back, pause at the midpoint because the back of your dress is stunning. Turn your head slightly so they get a little bit of your profile. A model must know these things.

5. Enjoy the show and feed on the energy of the live audience.

The show had three main segments: casual, semi-formal,

and summer wear. My favorite was the summer wear collection -- bright, fresh prints and jewel tones, perfect to style up this summer! I really love the SM Ladies Fashion Collection, as well ad the Parisian Iconic Shoes, GTW, and SM Accessories.

I hope all the women in attendance enjoyed the show and learned some fashion tips.

I most definitely did!

g n i S SettinetgtiSnettinSgett g uitayQliutya y t lity i uQ al QuPalQ Print t n d r i r i r n a P t d t S PrinnSdtaarndSdtaarndytandard SGtalobalGlylobaGlllobally y l l a b Glo

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uuu

Tandem pictorial by Johann Abiabi and Jed Reyes

1

Emman Aquino & Kate Durano

B

each wear should be easy and breezy, and stylish modesty always earns brownie points. Take a cue: 1 - Kate wears a a multi-color twopiece with a bandeau top, Emman a basic black-white-gray floral boardshorts. | 2 - Roxanne wears a basic black two-piece swimsuit, with green off-shoulder cover-up, and 3 - a basic black triangle top and matching black boyshorts, with sheer white coverup. | 4/6 - Elaiza wears a bejewelled black halter top and matching black cut-out shorts under loose and light tie-dye pants. | 5 - Jenny wears a classic black-purple patterned bikini. | 6 - John Ray wears a pair of off-white boardshorts. | 7 - Pauline wears floral-print bikinis and loose string pants in matching fuschia. Now head for the beach, be safe, and have a good time! (Gimma Samalca)

4

Elaiza Caoleng

2/3

Roxanne Go Francisco

5

Jenny MuĂąasque

6

Elaiza and John Ray Bass

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GGQ • Q2 2013

7

Pauline Pelgone

A DOZEN TIPS TO BEST ENJOY THE BEACH

A

beach holiday, even for just a day or a weekend at the beach, should be all about safe and good fun in the sand, sea, and sun. Take to heart the following tips to make sure that your visit to the beach, however short, is a happy and memorable one.

1. Pick the right time and location for the kind of beach holiday you want. If you’re a wader, pick a sandy beach. If you like to snorkel, pick one where there are

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

rocks and corals. Weekends on the beach are apt, but weekdays can be less crowded and quieter.

Bring portable chairs and a light but sturdy mat to sit, rest or sunbathe on.

Wear the correct sunscreen lotion to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

Be wary of touts and pickpockets.

Secure your valuables at all times, and do not flaunt your expensive cameras and other gadgets.

Always be on the safe side, yet be prepared for any emergency.

As in everywhere, drink moderately. (This will significantly help you with point 5.)

Bring beach bags, plastic bags for your wet stuff, and trash bags for your discards.

8. Don’t rely on good weather alone; have a contigency plan for when it gets too windy or it rains.

9. Stay cool and drink lots of fluids, especially when engaging in sports or basking in the sun.

10. Bring sandwiches and fruit juice, and plenty of drinking water, too.

Some sweets, soda and chips are great, but just because you’re on the beach doesn’t mean you can ditch healthy.

11. Take photos of the landscape, the scenery, and what’s going on generally, not just yourselves in endlessly repetitive poses.

12. Keep a happy outlook and an open mind. A positive attitude will help you deal with holiday glitches, and will make you enjoy the simple pleasures even more.

GGQ • Q2 2013

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33

FITNESS & HEALTHuuu

Yoga for Mom, Yoga for Dad

By Eric Mayars

P

racticing yoga at an early age is a good habit and will keep you

away from any health problem at a later stage in your life. It helps you to overcome many health problems, makes you fit, and helps you stay younger by controlling cell deterioration in your body.

However, if you could not do it then and now in your late 30’s parenting your children and want to practice Yoga, let me tell you it is never too late.

Mothers can start practicing yoga after 6 weeks of delivering a baby. However, before starting yoga you need to consult your doctor, get a physical check, and seek advice on what kind of exercises are suitable. Your doctor will let you know what kind of yoga you can practice and if you should opt for this exercise mainly.

Once your doctor permits you, locate yoga retreats, meditation retreats, yoga classes, yoga studios, or a personal yoga instructor if you need personalized training.

Your yoga instructor will let you know about your routine, exercises, and diet as well.

The yoga instructor is like a doctor. He/she should know about your habits and lifestyle completely as it will help him/her plan your routine.

The main reason for using a yoga mat is to help you work on your coordination and balance. Many positions require

Ovations to Oats Here are just a few kudos we warmly give to the many nutritional benefits of oats, the wonder meal: OATS IMPROVE IMMUNITY -- Italian researchers reviewed existing data on the effects of oat beta glucans and they found that, on top of reducing cholesterol and blunting glycemic and insulin response, beta glucans boost the immune system’s defenses agains bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Minerva Medica, Jun 2009 OATS LOWER BAD CHOLESTEROL -- Colorado State University researchers randomly assigned 36 overweight middle-aged men to eat either an oat or wheat cereal daily

balancing, without which you will not be able to practice the various poses. The balance and posture regimen will benefit your health. For this, it is necessary to maintain coordination and meditation.

After entering the parenting phase in your life, this exercise becomes all the more important for you because it helps you deal with different situations every day while raising your child.

Parenting can bring a lot of stress. You need to be patient and calm to assure a stress-free

GGQ • Q2 2013

Eric Mayars is an expert in providing information related to yoga travel and other services like Seva and meditation retreats. He invites you to visit www.featheredpipe.com.

Yoga Asana & Vinyasa It would require more than this small space to introduce even the basics of the system of Yoga positions (Asana) and dynamic movement (Vinyasa) from the Ashtanga Yoga discipline. To learn them on your own, visit www.ashtangayoga.info/practice/ where you will also find detailed illustrations of all poses, as well as helpful descriptions.

for12 weeks. At the end, those eating oats had lower concentrations of small, dense LDL cholesterol (“dangerous”) and lower LDL overall, compared to those on wheat, while their HDL (“good”) cholesterol was unchanged.

American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Aug 2002

OATS HELP CONTROL BLOOD PRESSURE -- Using a randomized, controlled parallel-group pilot study, researchers followed 18 hypertensive and hyperinsulemic men and women for 6 weeks, while half of them ate oat cereal and the others ate a lower-fiber cereal. The oat group enjoyed a 7.5mm Hg reduction in systolic blood pressure and a 5.5 mm Hg reduction in diastolic blood pressure, while the wheat group was unchanged.

Journal of Family Practice, Apr 2002

OATS MAY REDUCE ASTHMA RISK IN CHILDREN -While it is believed that introducing solid foods to children too early may cause later health problems, a Finnish study of 1293 children found that those introduced earlier to oats were in fact less likely to develop persistent asthma. British Journal of Nutrition, Jan 2010 OATS MAY BOOST GLUTEN-FREE DIETS -- Two Scandinavian studies show that adding oats to a gluten-free diet may enhance its value. Researchers asked 13 men and 18 women with Celiac disease to follow a glutenfree diet plus kilned (stabilized) or unkilned oats. After

34

environment for your child.

Sleepless nights, caring for the child day in, day out; feeding challenges; playing with the child, etc. -- everything adds to the daily activities of your life, and you need to keep your mind and body fit and prepared for all of that.

Start today and enjoy being a parent by staying calm and healthy with yoga.

6 months, adding stabilized oats resulted in increased vitamin B1 and magnesium intake, while unkilned oats increased magnesium and zinc intakes. In the second study, adding gluten-free oats aided in achieving recommended daily fiber intakes, also increasing levels of bilirubin, which helps the body eliminate free radicals and protect the brain from oxidative damage. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Jan 2010; The European e-Journal of Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism, Dec 2009

OATS CONTROL APPETITE -- Australian researchers studied 14 people who ate a control meal and 3 different cereals with varying levels of oat beta glucan. They then collected blood samples for 4 hours after each meal, and found a significant dose response between higher levels of oat beta glucan and higher levels of Peptide Y-Y, a hormone linked to appetite control. Nutrition Research, Oct 2009 OATS MAY HELP REDUCE TYPE 2 DIABETES RISKS -- Mannheim researchers conducted a dietary intervention with 14 patients who had uncontrolled type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance. They were introduced to a diabetes-appropriate diet with oatmeal during a short hospital stay, then re-examined 4 weeks later. On average, patients achieved a 40% reduction in insulin dosage – and maintained the reduction even after 4 weeks on their own at home. Experimental and Clinical Endocrinology & Diabetes, Feb 2008

GGQ • Q2 2013

25

COORDINATED CHAOS uuu

by Mandi Nicolas

The Pretty Pronoun

Any alarm set off by this column’s new title is uncalled for and plain unintentional.

This writer, as most of his peers would attest, is exclusively apolitical, anti-violence, and a raging pacifist. Whatever notion of organized mayhem the new name conjures remains purely in the realm of words and letters.

Perhaps the photo on the left needs some enlightenment as well. Whatever animosity seemingly transpiring between ape and man is for theatrical purposes only. What, after all, can a two-dimensional image on a wall do to an unsuspecting human passer-by? The other way might be a different story, but no, this writer is not a vandal either.

So, it’s been almost five months since this magazine’s last appearance, and believe me, the thought of folding up -- the way countless other local magazines did, and after so much noise and pomp, too -- actually crossed our minds.

Well, no, not really. All that time I was in and out of the country -- scouring four cities in two countries in Europe late last year, and at least seven cities in six states across the United States by early 2013, blizzards and all -- so really, who would have the energy, let alone time to put out a magazine? We were just late; let’s leave it at that.

The perks of being your own

boss! Sure, you don’t get regular pay and benefits, but running your own gig allows you to have total control over your time, energy, and output.

Plus, you reap all the benefits.

The risks and losses as well, of course. Which makes every little decision you make more urgent and relevant in your day-to-day affairs.

Like, should we feature this particular festival this year for the umpteenth time, and if so, how do we treat it so it comes off still fresh and original?

Or, should we reprint the Kahlil Bendib illustration below for emphasis and effect?

You -- our love-hate favorite double-edged sword of a word of late.

ing off in the air against a red background, or do we turn that photograph upside down, you know, just for kicks?

And there’s the issue of operational cost. How much content can a certain (paid) advertising space accommodate, and if not enough ads are in, do we cover the full amount for printing from our own pockets, never mind that this, first and foremost, is a business?

Decisions and more decisions, indeed. And ones you have to make yourself, not a boss at the head office or a partner in Malta or a shareholder in Gibraltar -- but you.

You -- our love-hate favorite double-edged sword of a word of late. The privilege it holds is not without peril; its prestige, not without poison.

Pretty much like the one spread by an acquaintance that our editor cannot properly capitalize his headlines to save his life.

Or, should we refuse a political propaganda being underhandedly offered as a cover story material (and just right before the elections, too) despite the magazine’s nonpolitical leanings?

Or the intelligence people claim they possess but never really had to begin with. Or, more literally, the poisons to which we’ve subjected our planet. We’re still doing it -there’s no denying that -- and we’re running out of time.

Or, should we go for an unoriginal take of a couple jump-

Or, you can always vie for that one-way ticket to Mars.

Illustration by Kahlil Bendib, OtherWrods.org 36

GGQ • Q2 2013

GLIMPSE of GREATSON

by Apple Greatson Francisco

The COCOA shot

Muse: Nicole San Mateo Hair/Makeup/Cocoa: Nicole Lighting/Photography: Apple

A touch of New York glamour.

A twist of Gensan colors.

A taste of international flavors.

.. Only at C Bistro bar & restaurant

Now open at the Microtel Arcade, Valley High, National Highway, General Santos City | tel. no. +63-83-552-3780