FO FYI: What to do if you get counterfeit money

By Yong Chavez
FilipinOnline.com

Do you carefully check the cash you receive from anyone? Especially if it's a big amount - you always should. An LA Times story recently exposed the frustrating experiences of a local man who said he got fake money when he cashed a money order at a US Post Office, of all places. Turns out, no place is safe when it comes to counterfeits.

So what do you do when you get counterfeit money? Contact the authorities IMMEDIATELY so it will be established that you are the victim (if you didn't know that the money you got was fake when you got it), not the one passing it off.

Here are the steps, per the US Secret Service, the government branch that deals with this issue.

1.) Do not return it to the passer.
2.) Delay the passer if possible.
3.) Observe the passer's description, as well as that of any companions, and the license plate numbers of any vehicles used.
4.) Contact your local police department or United States Secret Service field office. These numbers can be found on the inside front page of your local telephone directory.
5.) Write your initials and the date in the white border areas of the suspect note.
6.) Limit the handling of the note. Carefully place it in a protective covering, such as an envelope.
7.) Surrender the note or coin only to a properly identified police officer or a U.S. Secret Service special agent
 
Per Secret Service agent interviewed by the LA Times: "Anyone who receives questionable cash to stop by a bank and ask what the money pros have to say. If a bill is indeed counterfeit, contact the Secret Service and turn it in to authorities. Maybe they'll be able to find out where it came from, maybe not."

Using fake money is a felony - punishable by up to 20 years in prison - and you could be arrested if you get caught passing it off.

Yes, by surrendering the money you'll lose it but, hey, the alternative is prison so think carefully and do the right thing.

Free Medical, Dental & Vision Care Event in Los Angeles

If you don't have medical, dental or vision insurance, plan to go the Remote Area Medical (RAM) free clinic this coming April 27. It runs till May 3.

RAM's all-volunteer medical professionals will provide free medical, dental and vision care to thousands individuals in the Los Angeles area.

The free clinic will be held at the Los Angeles Sports Arena, 3939 North Figueroa Street, near USC.

Right now, they are expecting to treat about 1,200 people a day, but they could see more patients depending on the final number of volunteers and participating organizations. Fil-Am medical professionals/groups, sign up to volunteer at http://www.ramfreeclinic.org/

They need California licensed/certified specialists: ophthalmologists, optometrists, opticians, dentists, registered dental hygienists, certified dental hygienists, and triage RNs/LPNs.

Free care will be provided to anyone who needs it, without cost of any kind to the patient, the taxpayer or the government. No income test, no insurance requirement, and no restriction of any kind.

Medical and non-medical personnel will all be volunteers; supplies and equipment will be donated or provided by RAM. There will be at least 100 dental stations, 45 medical exam rooms, 25 eye exam stations.

The event is planned and operated by Remote Area Medical, a Volunteer 501(c)(3) charity providing free care to uninsured, underinsured, and indigent Individuals throughout the United States .

I read about someone who has insurance but went to a RAM event last time they were here because his dental insurance is the largely worthless kind: the HMO one. He has been postponing getting dental treatment because of the prohibitive cost so he was very grateful to finally get much-needed dental attention.

For more info, visit: http://www.ramusa.org/

PHILIPPINE TYPHOON Information for Fil-Ams: Where and How to Give Aid

By Yong B. Chavez
FilipinOnline.com

UPDATED INFO BELOW: 9/28/09 and 9/29/09

The worst flooding the Philippines ever experienced in 40 years occurred this past week.

Many of us abroad have a love/hate relationship with our native country. There's no question: we love the people and our family there, the food, the place we grew up in. But we are often exasperated by some government officials and a few of the negative attitude and lack of discipline among kababayans.

But at the end of the day, it is still our Philippines, our people, our family. We shouldn't - we can't - stand by while they suffer.

Here are the facts: There are almost 300 dead; 500 thousand Filipinos are left homeless. Lots of our kababayans were trapped on the roofs for hours: wet, sick, hungry, helpless. People are still missing. Many are still suffering. Rescue is slow. Food and clothing and monetary donations are desperately needed.

There's a sliver of light at the end of this tunnel: Our collective spirit of Bayanihan rose amidst the tragedy. Kababayans and other generous people all over the world are giving and pledging help.

Here are some info. I will try to update this list as often as I can:

List of people missing:

http://biturl.cc/qeq

Hotlines to check missing persons:

http://biturl.cc/mMu

How/where to give help:

Online donation

1.) Red Cross

American Red Cross 1800-435-7669

Philippine Red Cross http://www.redcross.org.ph/

2.) ABS-CBN Sagip Kapamilya

http://www.abs-cbnfoundation.com/donate.php

added info 9/28/09: The Foundation is encouraging monetary donations - it is a little difficult right now to receive and ship donated goods. We will be remitting received donations immediately to fund ongoing relief efforts in the Philippines.- Donations can be received online through: www.abscbnfoundation.org (the North American website - including Canada).

- Donations can be made here through credit card or through PayPal.

- Donations can also be received through mailed checks. Please make checks payable to ABS CBN Foundation - Sagip at 150 Shoreline Drive, Redwood City, California 94065

- Pledges can be made through the toll free number (800) 527-2820 Should you have any other queries, please do get in touch with the Foundation. For pledges and other inquiries, please call (800) 527-2820 [toll free] or email foundation@abs-cbni.com or abscbnfoundation.us@gmail.com.

3.) Ayala Foundation USA

http://www.af-usa.org/donate_now_form.asp

Select Philippine National Red Cross from drop down.

4.) TXTPower.org Inc

http://biturl.cc/BN8

added info 9/28/09:

5.) Gawad Kalinga

http://www.gk1world.com/

US-based organizations/companies/individuals mobilizing aid:

a. Alliance Philippines or AJLPP

SAGIP TULONG SA PILIPINAS (STP): Accepting donations cash or check. Send to People's CORE, 1610 Beverly Blvd. Suite No 2, Los Angeles, Ca 90026. Donations more than $50 is tax deductible. Material donations drop off ( donations; shoes, clothes, canned goods. medicines etc. ) at ANSWER LA office at 137 Virgil St. Room 203 , Los Angeles, CA 900042.

b. Fil-Am comic Jokoy is organizing help. "Planning a fundraiser and clothing drive for victims of the typhoon in the Philippines. Those of you in the Los Angeles area interested in donating time, clothes or money on Wednesday. E-mail: help@jokoy.com"

c. Shirt The Kids helping typhoon relief. Buy any Sammy tee & we'll donate another tee and $5 to Philippine National Red Cross! http://www.blogger.com/www.pnoyapparel.com

added info 9/28/09:

d. Island Pacific Supermarket is accepting donations at all branches. Goods will be shipped by Alas Cargo on Fridays. Goods will be shipped by Alas Cargo on Fridays.

added info 9/28/09:

e. LA-based performing artists, civic-minded individuals, corporate sponsors, members of the media, who are interested in supporting an emergency fundraising project to raise funds and collect in-kind donations to aid the victims of typhoon Ondoy. Please email CreativeConceptsIntl@gmail.com, or text 323-788-8911.

added info 9/28/09:

f.) Philippine Consulate General, Los Angeles, CA

Vice Consul John G. Reyes

Attn: Mr. Edwin Caraos

Tel: 1(213) 637-3010Cell: 1(213) 268-9990 (Duty Officer)

Email: losangelespcg@earthlink.net

DONATIONS FOR TYPHOON ONDOY VICTIMS:

http://www.philippineconsulatela.org/PRs%202009/105PR-Donations%20for%20Typhoon%20Ondoy%20Victims.pdf

added info 9/28/09:

g.) Bayan-USA's "BALSA" (Bayanihan para sa Sambayanan, or "People's Cooperation for the People") fundraising effort. "Aid will directly go towards the basic sectors of society – the workers, peasants and the the urban poor who make up the majority of the victims (despite media attention that 'the poor and rich are equally impacted')," said Rhonda Ramiro, Secretary General of BAYAN-USA.

Bank: Chase
Account Name: BAYAN-USA
Account Number: 340-209749-3
If you have any question, contact Ramiro at secgen@bayanusa.org

added info 9/28/09:

h.) Xoom offers Fee-Free Money Transfer to Help the Typhoon Ondoy Relief Efforts. Money is transfered to the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC). You can donate to the relief efforts by visiting Xoom.com and entering the coupon code“HELPONDOY” to make a fee-free money transfer donation to the Philippine National Red Cross. This special coupon code is valid until Friday October 9, 2009.

How to Use Xoom to Help the Typhoon Ondoy Relief Efforts

Use the following steps to make a donation to the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC):

Step 1 – Sign up for a Xoom.com account, or sign in to your existing Xoom.com account.

Step 2 – Select Bank Deposit as a disbursement option.

Step 3 – Enter the following Recipient Name and Bank Account details:

Recipient Name: Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC)

Bank Account Details:

The following Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) bankaccount details will be needed at the time of the transaction.

You can enter any one of the following bank accounts to make their donation:

PNRC Peso Accounts:

• Banco de Oro – Peso Account: 453-0018647

• Bank of the Philippine Islands - Peso Account: 4991-0010-99

• Metrobank – Peso Account: 151-3-04163122-8

• Philippine National Bank – Peso Account: 3623-3680-0011

• Banco de Oro - Dollar Account: 453-0039482

• Bank of the Philippine Islands - Dollar Account: 8114-0030-94

• Metrobank - Dollar Account: 151-2-151002182

• Philippine National Bank - Dollar Account: 375-283500026

Enter Recipient Address and Phone Number:

Philippines National Red Cross National Headquarters

Bonifacio Drive, Port Area Manila 2803, Philippines, Phone Number: 632 527 0000

Step 4 - Enter the coupon code "HELPONDOY" at the bottom of the Payments page.

added info 9/28/09:

h) GMA Kapuso Foundation

http://www.kapusofoundation.com/help

added info 9/29/09

i) UN World Food Programme has identified at least 178 000 families in need of immediate food aid. Go to https://www.wfp.org/donate/ondoy to donate.

added info 9/29/09

j) Enderun Culinary College in the Philippines is accepting raw food or canned goods to be brought to Enderun College, 1100 Campus ave formerly Park Ave. Mckinley Hill, Fort Bonifacio. They will cook it and package it up. 700 people fed and counting. Red Cross is picking up and distributing the food. Volunteers to cook and or pack the food are welcome as well. They need more bottled water and milk tetra packs. (Info care of: http://ondoy-assistance-info.blogspot.com/)

added info 9/29/09

k) GABNetLA - Saturday Oct 3, collection @ SIPA 3200 W. Temple St, LA 10 am-7 pm. Please bring diapers, formula, blankets, baby clothes.

I WILL UPDATE THIS LIST AS INFORMATION BECOMES AVAILABLE. PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF YOU HAVE OR NEED MORE INFORMATION. -Yong

Ask A Kababayan: Healthcare Reform Basic Info

This is an issue that will affect most if not all of us, and so we should take the time to learn the facts. Dito na po tayo nakatira sa Amerika kaya dapat lang na sumali tayo at pag-aralan ang anumang bagay na makakaapekto sa buhay natin dito.

As you (should) know, President Barack Obama’s endorsed healthcare reform bill include extending insurance to all Americans - but there will be no health insurance Federal aid to undocumented immigrants. ERs will still be obligated to treat all patients, including TNTs - this is not a new procedure. That system has been in place in previous administrations. It's a legal (and moral) obligation of U.S. hospitals and their staff.

Here are some basic info about the healthcare issue from Newsday.

Question: Where do most people in America get their insurance now?

Answer: An estimated 253.4 million people had coverage in 2007, according to the most recent analysis by the U.S. Census Bureau. The majority of those had private insurance, most of it obtained through an employer. Eighty-three million people got health insurance from the government through Medicare, Medicaid or some other program such as the Veterans Health Administration.

Q: How many people don’t have coverage?

A: The Census Bureau estimated that 45.7 million people in the country under age 65 did not have insurance in 2007. (Most discussions focus on those under 65 because senior citizens have access to Medicare.)

Many experts believe that the number of uninsured is higher now, perhaps more than 47 million, because so many people have lost coverage in the economic downtown. Even more people may go without coverage for a time as a result of changing jobs, leaving school or some other event. An analysis by the consumer group Families USA estimated that about 64.5 million people were uninsured for at least six months in 2007 and 2008. The majority of the uninsured, more than eight in 10, are in working families.

Q: Can any of the uninsured afford coverage?

A: Probably. Many younger people and healthy people choose not to get coverage. Some 4.5 million of the uninsured make at least four times the federal poverty level — or $43,320 a year for an individual and $88,200 for a family of four — according to an analysis by the Kaiser Commission on Medicaid and the Uninsured and the Urban Institute. The analysis estimated that 15 million of the uninsured are below the federal poverty line of $10,830 for an individual and $22,050 for a family of four.

Q: Couldn’t those people qualify for government assistance?

A: Many probably could. One of the challenges that has confounded policymakers is how to get more poor people to sign up for aid. Congressional Democrats pushing health care legislation want to expand eligibility for Medicaid — the federal-state health insurance program for the poor — and ramp up outreach efforts.

Q: How many of the uninsured are undocumented immigrants?

A: As many as 7 million. An additional 3 million are legal immigrants, according to the U.S. Census.

Q: Will all of the people without insurance be covered under plans being developed in Congress?

A: Not all of them. The bills written by senior House Democrats and by the Senate health committee would explicitly prohibit undocumented immigrants from getting federal aid for health insurance. Although all the major proposals would require everyone to get health insurance, millions of people are expected to not sign up.

Under the House bill, the percentage of people with coverage (excluding undocumented immigrants) is expected to go from about 83 percent in 2010 to 97 percent in 2019, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, which is charged with analyzing the cost and impact of proposed legislation. The Senate health bill would boost the coverage rate to 90 percent.

Q: Where will people be getting their health insurance if the bill succeeds?

A: The CBO estimated that in 10 years, most Americans under 65 will get private insurance though their employers. In fact, the number of people with employer-based coverage is expected to grow.

As many as 30 million people would get their insurance through exchanges created by the legislation. These new, highly regulated marketplaces would offer people a choice of health plans provided by private insurers and the government. Of those in the exchanges, fewer than 11 million are expected to get their insurance from the government plan, according to CBO.

[photo: baltimoresun.com]

UPDATES

I feel awful for neglecting my own site due to my crazy schedule. I wish I have 48 hours a day. For those who drop in here and don't see anything new everyday, I'm sorry - but please leave me a note on Twitter - story requests, news tips, comments, what-have-you.

@yongchavezLA

I update it daily (as of now) and I often mention the stories I'm currently working on.

This week, I'm doing a story on Sharon Anne Santos' case. It's become a cold case, unfortunately, and her family is still seeking justice for her death 5 years after. Watch for my story on Balitang America.

Next week, I will cover the Joseph Ileto 10th year memorial service.

After my run of fun features, it's a bit jarring to jump into serious stories again but it's important to tell these stories. As a community reporter, that's my primary responsibility.

But, I hope to do more features again soon. I'm going to pitch a number of fun interviews again and hopefully they'll get approved.

I might also be doing a regular series dealing with consumer advocacy. It's a project close to my heart. I hate scammers and wish to be able to warn and help our kababayans deal with them. More on that later this week.

Filipina Girl Needs Liver Transplant

By Yong B. Chavez

Two years ago, I wrote a story about Meraly, the brave, funny and adorable girl who needed a heart surgery to save her life. Many responded with help and Meraly got her operation and a new life.

Now, another girl is fighting for her life. I'm hoping that good-hearted individuals and organizations would also help Janine Victoria.

Here's her mother's letter:

My name is Johanna Tejada-Medalla and I am a mother of two young boys and daughter named Jorge Rafael, Julian Hanns and Janine Marie Victoria. We are living in my parent’s house at 40 Kennedy Drive Tandang Sora Quezon City 1116, Philippines.

I wrote this letter to ask for your support to our only daughter Janine Marie Victoria. My daughter Janine was born with a life threatening disease called “Biliary Atresia” . It is a congenital condition characterized by the absence or closure of the bile ducts that drain bile from the liver. Biliary Atresia is a progressive inflammatory process that begins very soon after birth. In Janine’s case, she was diagnosed initially with Neonatal Hepatitis at 2 1/2 months and after two weeks of medication nothing changes with her color and stool that make her paediatrician decided to have another biopsy, eventually it turned out to be Biliary Atresia. During that time, there was already a significant amount of damage to her liver. White blood cells invaded the ducts, which became damaged or closed completely, bile was then trapped inside the liver and rapidly caused liver cirrhosis.

An operation called “KASAI Method” was done on Janine by Dra. Esther Saguil at the Philippine General Hospital last April 14, 2009. It is an operation that removes the damaged biliary ducts ouside the liver. Then, the small intestine is directly attached to the liver at the spot where bile is found or expected to drain. This procedure is not a cure but rather a temporary solution to be able to give Janine more time to find the necessary funding for her operation and the matching liver type. Unfortunately, although the operation was done, her liver continued to fail. Our doctors told us that there is no other course but to have a liver transplant.

Unfortunately, liver transplant is not yet available locally but it can be done in Taiwan for P3 Million pesos (approx. $60,000 USD). This amount is simply beyond the means of our family. If my daughter will not be able to have a liver transplant soon, she will die. All we want is to see our daughter live that’s why we are appealing for you charity and compassion.

We are entrusting Janine to God’s hand and we believe that He will deliver Janine from this ordeal, through your help and prayers. Thank you for your time in reading my letter and we are hoping for your kind help. God Bless.

Contact Info:
Phone: (02)9368516
Cell: 09228291299/09177943673
Website:
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/janine...
Location:
40 Kennedy Drive Tandang Sora
Quezon City, Philippines

EXCHANGE LEAD FOR CASH

Parents, you can get your children's toys, jewelry, backpacks, lunch boxes, costumes, pajamas, etc. tested for lead contamination.

On Saturday, February 21, the Los Angeles City Attorney's Office (will hold a Lead Toy exchange at four locations throughout the city. From 12:00 to 4:00 pm, testers will be in four locations to test toys for lead content.

If a toy is found to contain lead, the toy can then be exchanged for a $25.00 American Express gift card. RSVP is preferred but not essential. Go to this website for more info and to RSVP.
A second toy testing positive may be exchanged for another American Express gift card. There is a limit of two gift cards/exchanges per household and this offer will only be good while supplies last. Gift cards will only be handed out in exchange for lead contaminated toys.

The City Attorney's Office will ensure the proper and safe disposal of the collected toys. Parents may be asked to limit the number of toys depending on the popularity of the event. Please visit HealthyToys.org for a list of more than 1,500 toys and children's products which have recently been tested for lead levels.

LEAD TESTING LOCATIONS:
- Harmony Elementary School899 East 42nd StreetLos Angeles, CA 90011
- Grand View Elementary School3951 Grand View BoulevardLos Angeles, CA 90066
- Pacoima Elementary School11016 Norris Ave.Pacoima, CA 91331
- Huntington Drive Elementary School4435 Huntington Dr NLos Angeles, CA 90032

LA City Attorney Rocky Delgadillo will be at the Grand View location at 1:30pm.

Since 1987, lead has been listed on the Governor's list of chemicals that can cause reproductive harm and birth defects, and since 1992 has been on the list of chemicals known to cause cancer. Exposure to lead occurs chiefly from ingestion, such as eating or putting objects into the mouth, putting young children particularly at risk.

There are no safe levels of lead. Impacts include birth defects, learning disabilities, hearing loss, reduced attention span, and behavioral abnormalities. Teenagers also can suffer adverse effects, which include brain damage, kidney damage, hearing loss, and impaired growth.

To get more info on recalled items with lead, go to the Department of Health website: http://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/Recalls/allhazards.htm

Ingat Po Tayo: FRAUD CASES ON THE RISE IN THE FILIPINO AMERICAN COMMUNITY

I recently interviewed a group of Pinay friends from Long Beach who lost more than $22,000 to alleged con artists. Being generous and trustful of kababayans, they realized that sometimes, no good deed goes unpunished: After opening up their homes and hearts to a couple who asked for their help, they ran off with their money. The case is now being investigated by the Long Beach police department.

The story came out on Balitang America last week but I plan to post an article later this week about it with more details and additional information on what to do to avoid - and how to deal with - scams.

Meanwhile, here's a release from the Philippine Consulate advising people against Internet and text messaging scams. Read and beware!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Los Angeles, 12 February 2009 - The Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles cautions the public to beware of internet fraud schemes and text scams, especially those purported to be involving cash inheritances from persons unrelated to email recipients.

One such modus operandi specifically involves the supposed multi-million dollar inheritance from a certain Engr. Jurgen Krugger being offered to email recipients and allegedly being managed by one of the following:

. Barrister David Smith, Esq. of David Smith and Associates with email address at davidsmith.esqunit@live.com;

. Barrister Jerry Morgan, Esq., of Jerry Morgan and Associates, with email address at jerry-morganesq@hotmail.com, Tel. No. +44 704 570 8111, and mailing address at 33 Bedford Row, London WC1R 4JH, England; or

. Mr. James Peters of the Royal Courts of Justice Probate Registry Department in London, with email address at royalcourtsofjustice_probatedept@live.co.uk. and Tel. No. +44 703 192 8723.

The said contact numbers are either numbers of dubious legitimacy or not recognized numbers. The email addresses concerned also tend to vary in some email messages.

Various internet websites dedicated to alerting the public to internet fraud, such as the Anti-Fraud International, have issued a warning to internet users not to answer email messages from David Smith and Associates.

REGISTRATION TO VOTE IN THE PHILIPPINE 2010 ELECTIONS MOVED TO FEB '09

Filipino citizens residing abroad, mark your calendars:

The Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles wishes to inform the public that pursuant to the Minute Resolution of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), the registration/ certification for overseas absentee voters has been moved from 1 December 2008 to 1 February 2009.

All citizens of the Philippines abroad not otherwise disqualified by law, at least eighteen (18) years of age on the day of the election and who wish to vote for President, vice-President, Senators and Party List Representatives for purposes of the 10 May 2010 National Elections must file applications for registration/ certification as overseas absentee voters from 1 February 2009 to 31 August 2009.

The voting period will be from 10 April 2010 until 3:00 p.m. Philippine time 10 May 2010.

For details, please contact the embassy/ consulate nearest your residence or the following websites:

Department of Foreign Affairs (Manila): http://www.dfa.gov.ph/

Commission on Elections (Manila): coav@comelec.gov.ph

Filipino residents of SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, NEW MEXICO, TEXAS, ARIZONA and SOUTHERN NEVADA may wish to contact the following:

PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL

3600 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 500Los Angeles, CA 90010

Attn: Vice Consul John Reyes

Tel. No. (213) 637-3003

Fax No.: (213) 639-0990

Jobs! Jobs! Jobs!

You know the grim statistics: unemployment is rising. Well, here are some job leads for you, courtesy of the Calif. Governor Arnold S.'s office:

Fernandez Government Solutions, Legislative/Executive Assistant for lobbying firm. Must be motivated, organized, have excellent communication skills. Knowledge of Legislative process a plus. Competitive salary, benefits. Please e-mail cover letter, resume: sfernandez@fernandezgov.com or contact: 916 448 7567 (12/3)

American Lung Association, Policy Analyst on air quality and global warming regulatory issues, write position letters, statements, assist with advocacy and outreach. 3 plus years experience, excellent oral/written communication skills. $45,000-55,000. Resume, cover letter: jobs@alac.org (11/21)

California Association of Health Plans seeks a full-time Administrative Assistant to provide support to our Legislative Affairs department. Familiarity with legislative process preferred. Competitive salary/benefits. Visit http://www.calhealthplans.org/ for more information. (12/2)
Associate Lobbyist, California Catholic Conference. Public policy advocacy, focus on Hispanic legislators/community leaders. Legislative advocacy experience, college degree, familiar with Catholic teachings, bi-lingual (oral/written) Spanish/English. Some travel required. $38,000-45,000. Cover letter, resume: bcaselli@cacatholic.org. (11/20)

Assemblymember-elect Bob Blumenfield seeks experienced scheduler for Capitol office. Resumes to Colleen Beamish, cbeamish@cal.net, or call 530 758 5470. Also seeks Field Representative for Los Angeles District Office. Resumes to Samantha Stevens, samstevens1@msn.com, 818 731 7336. Salaries based on experience. (11/20)

March of Dimes seeks State Director of Public Affairs, who manages Government Relations in California. Coordinate policy agenda, lobbying and grassroots activities within the state. Salary commensurate with experience. More information: Associate State Director at californiajobs@marchofdimes.com. (12/11).

Support the Senate Fellowship Program and LegiSchool. Administrative Support Assistant II. Job No. 100197. Full-time. Support the Senate Fellowship Program and LegiSchool. Position, renewable annually contingent upon funding, work performance and the recommendation of the supervisor. $2,505-$3,758/mo. Duties will include, but are not limited, to travel arrangements, web research, and database entry. Required: Intermediate computer skills; MS Office, especially Access. Knowledge of university and state policies and procedures, especially travel related; knowledge of state government through experience useful. Great benefits! View full description online at: http://www.csus.edu/webpages/employment.stm; Open until filled. ADA/EEO. For more information, contact David Pacheco at david.pacheco@sen.ca.gov or at Ext. 4160. (11/3).

The San Diego Unified School District is looking for a Legislative Affairs Manager in Sacramento. This person will serve as the primary contact for the San Diego Unified School District with members of the California State Legislature, Department of Education, and education interest groups. The link to the application and requirements is here: https://sdcsjob1.sandi.net/sdusdjobs1/. (10/30).

The Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC) has active job listings for research positions based in PPIC’s Sacramento Center. In particular we are recruiting for Research Fellow and Visiting Fellow positions. Full position descriptions are available on the PPIC website, www.ppic.org/main/opportunities.asp. As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer, PPIC is committed to excellence through diversity. We encourage women and members of minority groups to apply. (10/30).

Senior Legislative Consultant, Office of Senator Oropeza. Ideal candidate must be motivated, organized, have good written and verbal communication skills to develop, analyze, & manage legislation. Minimum 2+ years Capitol experience with BA degree. Salary based on experience. Please submit resume plus cover letter to: Sean.Henschel@sen.ca.gov. (10/21).

Health Affairs Legislative Director, University of California – The State Governmental Relations of the University of California is seeking a person to advance the legislative interests of the University’s health sciences and services enterprise, which includes the health professions schools, research units, and UC’s five academic medical centers. The person selected will be responsible for working with and maintaining regular communication with the UC Office of the President and campus representatives, including health sciences and services issue experts, to assess and advance the University’s interests with the State Legislature and with representatives of State government on health care matters of interest to UC. Prior experience in the health care field as a consultant, lobbyist or analyst is a plus. Please contact Steve Juarez, Director of UC State Governmental Relations @ 916-445-9924 for more information or go directly to https://jobs.ucop.edu/ , click on Search Postings, and type in 20080366 in the Requisition No. box, and file your application electronically. (10/16).

Forward Observer, Office Manager. Seeking experienced administrative professional with excellent communications, organization and management skills for a high energy, boutique consulting firm. Competitive salary. Contact Andrew Chang at 916 444 0088 or submit resumes to Andrew@fwdobserver.com. (12/8)

California Grocers Association, VP/Government Affairs. Lobbying and representation before Legislature and regulatory agencies, grassroots and political programs. 10+ years experience required. Competitive salary. Details here. Fax/email resume/cover letter: 916 448 2793, sswett@cagrocers.com. (12/5)

Program Representative II ($36,108-$61,380/year) VL#11552, FFD 11/10/08. UC Davis Extension seeks employee to manage, market and implement continuing education programs in education, health sciences and public policy. See listing here. (11/10)
Legislative Consultant, JEA & Associates. Motivated, organized individual with excellent written/verbal communication skills; analyze, manage legislation; write position letters/reports. Minimum 2yrs Capitol experience, local government experience a plus. Salary commensurate with experience. Resume, cover letter: ericajea@aol.com. (12/5)

Planned Parenthood Los Angeles seeks Public Affairs Manager. Five years experience in public affairs/community organizing. Excellent communication skills. Familiarity with community leaders and organizations. Strong organizational skills. Salary DOE. E-mail/fax resumes: hr@pp-la.org, 323 225 0613. (12/4)

McNally Temple Associates, Inc. Senior Account Executive. Responsible for managing public relations and media programs for diverse array of corporate, government, association, non-profit and political clients. Legislative/political experience strongly recommended. Competitive salary, benefits. Resume: kreid@mcnallytemple.com. (12/1)

Department of Conservation seeks two Legislative Analysts at the Associate Governmental Program Analyst ($4,400-5,348) level. Staff Service Analyst ($2,817-4,446) may be considered. Legislative experience desired. For more information, please see http://www.spb.ca.gov/ or contact Vincent Keene at (916) 445-8733. (11/14)

The California Department of Conservation is seeking highly qualified applicants for the position of Chief Counsel. The Chief Counsel advises management on issues affecting all of the department's diverse programs. $9215 - $13,381/month. For details, click here. (11/14)
The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers - Director of Policy and Government Affairs. Responsible for formulating policy-based strategies and representing the industry before policymakers in the California legislature and executive office. Competitive salary. Details www.autoalliance.org/employment. (11/10).

Internet TV Freelancer LA preferred
Seeking a freelancer to handle a fast-growing, innovative internet television channel featuring fun and entertaining lifestyle shows. Think “CNBC meets MTV.” Must have strong online and offline media skills and experience working with interactive clients. Must also have good relationships with advertising industry trades and related media (AdWeek, BrandWeek, AdAge, NY Times, etc). Will develop and execute strategic PR campaign targeting existing and potential viewers, advertisers, investors, content producers and other key audiences.

Luxury Real Estate / Luxury Resort Pros West LA
Sr. AE to VP
Seeking travel and tourism pros with luxury real estate or luxury resort experience to work at a large and growing travel and tour specialty firm. Candidates must have solid industry contacts and be top-notch pitch artists who can handle major business media as well as tour & travel and lifestyle outlets. Of course solid writing is a must. Travel tour pros who also love golf would be ideal! Qualified candidates must contact Jim Delulio at jdelulio@prtalent.com

Social Marketing Opportunity West LA
Sr. AE or Supe
Seeking candidates who are strong strategic thinkers and would enjoy working on a social marketing account with a consumer flair. The ability to understand complex issues and handle a fast-paced environment is required. This person must have the ability to multi-task and work independently as well as in a team environment. Strong writing and media relations skills a must. Any experience with environmental or other social issues a plus. Qualified candidates must contact Jim Delulio at jdelulio@prtalent.com

USC Adjunct Instructor for PR/Com Law course LA NEW!!
Will teach undergrad PR/Com Law course on Tuesday nights in the spring 2009 semester. The ideal candidate would be an attorney (past or present) with some understanding of PR. A PR pro who has worked closely with attorneys and has some understanding of PR-related legal issues would also be appropriate. If interested, please contact Jerry Swerling at swerling@usc.edu

Senior Consumer Packaged Goods Talent Orange County [CA] Director
Position will lead PR campaigns for a major Fortune 250 packaged goods client at one of the rock solid, hot consumer agencies in the country. Candidates must have strong consumer branding experience; social media expertise and excellent writing and presentation skills. A record of leading major brand campaigns is essential. A great opportunity for a superstar Supervisor or Sr. Supe who's ready to move up!! Qualified candidates must contact Jim Delulio at jdelulio@prtalent.com

New York, Chicago & Washington D.C.
Healthcare PR Washington, DC
Account Supervisor, Account Director, Senior VP
Great healthcare communications firm based in Washington, D.C. is looking for pharmaceutical PR pros at various levels. Responsibilities include account management, strategic media relations, FDA drug approval activities and planning events/meetings. Candidates must have healthcare/pharmaceutical PR experience. Submit resumes to jsecchi@prtalent.com.

Consumer/General PR New York
Account Director
Boutique PR agency is looking for an Account Director to run accounts and manage a team, reporting directly into the President/Owner of the agency. Accounts include a luxury real estate developer, a not-for-profit devoted to adult literacy and a world-class science research institution. Responsibilities include strategic planning, client relations, team management and account management. Candidates must have 7-10 years of agency PR experience. Please submit resume and salary requirements to jsecchi@prtalent.com.

Men's Consumer PR New York
Director
Leading consumer PR agency is looking for a Director to work on a leading men's consumer account. Responsibilities include strategic planning, client relations, team management and account management. Candidates must have 10-15 years of consumer PR experience within an agency environment and MUST have experience working on PR campaigns targeting men. Please submit resume and salary requirements to jsecchi@prtalent.com.

Financial Services/PR New York
Account Supervisor
Boutique PR Firm is looking for an account supervisor to join their asset management team. Clients include billion-dollar hedge funds and a variety of "superstar" economists and asset managers-regularly appear in all of the industry's top media outlets. Responsibilities include: Managing agency-client relationship, Developing proactive and reactive strategies, Counseling client, managing staff, conducting media relations, writing, reporting, etc. Candidates must have 3-4 years of agency PR experience. Please submit resume and salary requirements to dzweig@prtalent.com.

Team Leader for New Digital PR Business New York
Seeking a technology and marketing professional with experience in performing digital/interactive campaigns. Candidate should have 3-5 years web experience and understand how to implement SEM and SEO campaigns (including Relationship Management campaigns) as well as have an idea how to effectively utilize blogs, podcasts, social networks, etc. as part of full service marketing and public relations campaigns. The ideal candidate will have a track record of creating and executing web based initiatives. The candidate should also be able to educate the company on all things Digital -- i.e., effective strategies for building online initiatives, media lists, targeting bloggers, using services such as Digg and Twitter to the firm's advantage. Please contact dzweig@prtalent.com

Professional Services Marketing Chicago
Business Development Manager
Prestigious global law firm, is looking for a Business Development Manager to support the Global BD team, Office Administrator, Office Managing Partner, and Chicago department and practice chairs to develop and implement marketing strategies and local business development programs for the Chicago office. This candidate should have 5- 7 years of professional services marketing experience. The Business Development Manager is responsible for creating practice level strategy to develop business with current, prospective and targeted clients by working closely with the entire BD Team. The position is also responsible for the development and implementation of marketing initiatives that support the practice strategy as well as providing assistance to the Director of Marketing. Please submit resume and salary requirements to dzweig@prtalent.com .

GET INTO "SHAKEOUT"

This Thursday, November 13, at 10 a.m., you can join millions of people throughout Southern California in the ShakeOut Drill, the largest earthquake preparedness activity in U.S. history.

Simulating a 7.8 quake, participants throughout SoCal will duck, cover and hold simultaneously to do the nation's biggest earthquake drill.

The Great Southern California Shake Out is meant to teach each resident what to do in case of an earthquake, a much-needed exercise, considering how the area has always been known as a likely site of a big earthquake. The last jolt epicentered in Chino Hills, a city in the Inland Empire where about 51,000 Fil-Ams live, was a shaky reminder of why we all need to be prepared.

Please register today to join the drill.

EARLY VOTING SCHEDULEFOR MONDAY, NOV 3

The Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County (RR/CC) headquarters is open Monday for voters wishing to vote early. Due to the tremendous turnout, they extended the office hours over the weekend but the lines were still long.

RR/CC Clerk Dean Logan said, “Early voting activity in L.A. County reflects high interest by voters wishing to cast their ballots prior to Election Day. They are flocking to the RR/CC in record breaking numbers. The weekend of October 25-26, we began a ‘seven day a week cycle’ open to the public for early voting. During that weekend alone over 2,600 voters came into the office, with another 1,300+ the following Monday.”

November 3rd office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The office is located at 12400 Imperial Hwy., Norwalk, CA 90650.

To date, over 977,000 voters have requested vote by mail ballots, and more than 329,500 have returned their voted ballot by mail or in-person to the RR/CC.
“The number of vote by mail ballots requested has surpassed the prior record from the November 2004 General Election, where with the same number of days remaining before the election, 740,000 requests had been made. The total vote by mail ballots cast in that election was 701,693 representing approximately 22 percent of the total votes cast”, Logan said.

COOKIE MONSTER?Popular Creme-filled Cookies Recalled Due to Melamine

As one mom blogger said: Lead is so 2007. It's all bout melamine-tainted product recalls nowadays.

In late September, it was the White Rabbit candy; now it's Koala's March creme-filled cookies.

The cookies are being recalled from U.S. store shelves because "they were made in China and may be contaminated with melamine," a newspaper report say.

Michigan-based Lotte USA Inc. said to the New York Times that it initiated the recall on Sept. 29.

It recalled king-size chocolate, white chocolate and strawberry flavors, family pack-size chocolate, white chocolate, strawberry, chestnut, Hawaii chocolate and Hawaii pineapple flavors.

Melamine is the industrial chemical blamed for killing four infants and sickening thousands of children in China. It's used to make plastics and fertilizers. Melamine is an organic compound that is often combined with formaldehyde to produce melamine resin, a synthetic polymer which is fire resistant and heat tolerant. Melamine resin is a very versatile material with a highly stable structure. Uses for melamine include whiteboards, floor tiles, kitchenware, fire retardant fabrics, and commercial filters.

In the Philippines and in many other countries, it is also widely used in plates and other household items. I even remember the blue set I bought from SM more than two decades ago. Oh, those were the days when we were blissfully unaware that the products we use everyday can actually harm us.

So to be safe, here are some tips from SafeMama:

- Don’t microwave, boil or otherwise heat melamine dishware or utensils, ever.
- Hand wash all melamine in warm water with mild soap.
- Use safer materials like bamboo, stainless steel, or BPA-free plastic (same heat rules apply here though, no microwave, hand wash).

[photo from Wikipedia]

FREE HEALTH SERVICES

A lot of people who lost their jobs due to the present economy are hurting from losing their health insurance coverage. Many people don't have health insurance in the first place.

Luckily, there are people in the community who are always there to help those in need.

If you live in or near Los Angeles, here's an opportunity for you to get health screenings for free. At this health fair, you will also get information about eligibility for public health care programs including Medi-Cal, Medicare, Healthy Families, and California Kids.

Here are the details:

Asian Pacific Health Care Venture and The Philippine Consulate General, Los Angeles - 5th Annual Pagpahalaga Sa Kalusugan Ng Pamilya Health Fair
Where: Philippine Consulate, Community Hall, Ste.500
3600 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 500, Los Angeles, CA 90010

When: October 22/2008 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
October 23/2008 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
October 24/2008 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Schedule of Activities & Free Services:
· Blood pressure screening * Glucose screening * BMI screening
· Information about eligibility for public health care programs including Medi-Cal, Medicare, Healthy Families, and California Kids
· Information about available services in the community such as:
o Pregnancy testing & counseling, HIV screening, prevention & counseling
o Family planning; Parenting classes, CPR Training; Nutrition Education for Diabetics
o Healthy Women screenings (mammograms & pap smears),
o Enrollment to WIC, Food Stamps, Medi-Cal, Healthy Families, other health programs
· On-site Osteoporosis scanning services
· Bone Marrow Donor Registration undertaken by the National Marrow Donor Program

REGISTER TODAY!

Mga kababayan, did you register already?

Today, October 6, is the deadline for new voters to register in many states (including Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Florida, Indiana and Colorado). California allows registration till October 20.

I don't have to tell you how important this election is not just for us U.S. residents and citizens. Our economic woes are affecting the rest of the world, including our native land, the Philippines.

This election year, an unprecedented number of new voters have registered. Last year, 660,477 people were naturalized, 38,830 of whom were Filipinos. We can be a strong force this election.

Recently, at a party, I spoke with a very nice elderly Pinay and while watching a noontime show on TFC, we got to talking about politics. She asked me who I was voting for, and after answering and explaining my choice, I asked her back. She said she was not voting for my choice even though she feels that he will do a better job because someone told her that my candidate was "going to raise taxes." I asked her where did she hear that. "I don't remember," she said, "I just read about it sa e-mail."

I told her it might be better if she doesn't take at face value the lousy smear tactics that some people have resorted to and instead read up on well-documented reports and fact-checked accounts to get some real information.

I told her that even if she's not a news junkie, she can get valuable knowledge by widening her circle of information.

Earlier she had shared that her family lost a big amount of money because when their bank imploded, their deposit exceeded the FDIC insurance limit. I asked her if she knew why this economic crisis is happening, and she sighed before saying, "kaya nga parang ayokong bumoto ngayong eleksyon eh." A lot of things don't make sense anymore in her political party, she said.

I told her that would be a huge mistake, to waste her opportunity and to abandon her duty when many remain voiceless at a time when too much is at stake. After a while, she nodded.

She said she will research more. I added that, to spike her interest, she should also find out the positions of both candidates on Filipino issues that she can identify with such as the WWII veterans' rights, immigration, and of course, where they stand on things that affect middle class Americans like most of us.

Her earlier hesitation is understandable. Many of us who grew up in the Philippines were not taught how our votes matter. Unfortunately, it was a place where many votes were for sale and/or stolen so voting might not necessarily be a passion. The mantra for some voters there was, "kahit sinong nasa pwesto, walang mangyayari."

I don't know enough about the current political climate back home to say that that has completely changed but this much I know is true: We're in America now, in this place that has been good to us, where we and our children can aspire to greatness no matter the circumstances of our births or gender or race or current station in life. Whether we're Democrats or Republicans or Independents, this is the place where we can be assured our votes matter. And barring any chad-related gaffes, they won't be stolen.

So be a part of history. Claim your space in this country you now call home. Register, and on November 4, let's vote.

Here's the list of State Voter Registration Deadlines:
Alabama Fri, Oct. 24
Alaska Sun, Oct. 5 (postmark by Sat, Oct. 4)
Arizona Mon, Oct. 6
Arkansas Mon, Oct. 6
California Mon, Oct. 20
Colorado Mon, Oct. 6
Connecticut Tues, Oct. 21
Delaware Sat, Oct. 11
District of Columbia Mon, Oct. 6
Florida Mon, Oct. 6
Georgia Mon, Oct. 6
Hawaii Mon, Oct. 6
Idaho Register at Polls
Illinois Tues, Oct. 7
Indiana Mon, Oct. 6
Iowa Fri, Oct. 24 (or on Election Day at polling place)
Kansas Mon, Oct. 20
Kentucky Mon, Oct. 6
Louisiana Mon, Oct. 6
Maine Tue, Oct. 21 (or on Election Day at polling place)
Maryland Tue, Oct. 14
Massachusetts Wed, Oct. 15
Michigan Mon, Oct. 6
Minnesota Same Day Registration at polling place
Mississippi Mon, Oct. 6
Missouri Wed, Oct. 8
Montana Mon, Oct. 6 (or same day at elections office)
Nebraska Fri, Oct. 24 (mail by Fri, Oct. 17)
Nevada Tue, Oct. 4 (or in person until Oct. 14)
New Hampshire Same Day
New Jersey Tues, Oct. 14
New Mexico Tues, Oct. 7
New York Fri, Oct. 10
North Carolina Fri, Oct. 10
North Dakota N/A
Ohio Mon, Oct. 6
Oklahoma Fri, Oct. 10
Oregon Tue, Oct. 14
Pennsylvania Mon, Oct. 6
Rhode Island Sat, Oct. 4
South Carolina Sat, Oct. 4
South Dakota Mon, Oct. 20
Tennessee Mon, Oct. 6
Texas Mon, Oct. 6
Utah Mon, Oct. 6 or in person Tue, Oct. 28
Vermont Wed, Oct. 29
Virginia Mon, Oct. 6
Washington Sat, Oct. 4 (or until Mon, Oct. 20 in person)
West Virginia Wed, Oct. 15
Wisconsin Wed, Oct. 15 (or on Election Day at polling place)
Wyoming Can register at polls

If you are, or someone you know is, a US citizen living abroad, you can get information about overseas voting.

Here's an interesting way to express why you are voting: Go to http://www.amillionreasonstovote.com/ and tell America why you’re voting. Through pictures, words and your voice, you can participate in "A Million Reasons to Vote". All you need to do is go to their website, upload your picture, record your reason to both (written, spoken or both), then share your "patch" in the Virtual Quilt, "made by the people who will be most effected by the outcome of this election, the voting public."

[photo:wisconsinpolitics.tv]

ADVICE & TOOLS TO SAVE YOUR HOME FROM FORECLOSURE

Homeowners can get tools and important information to prevent foreclosure at a free and comprehensive homeowners preservation fair scheduled for TODAY.

The fair will take place in the Long Beach Convention Center Grand Ballroom, on Pine Avenue, between Ocean Boulevard and Shoreline Drive from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m.

Participants must bring a copy of a recent mortgage statement. Counselors and housing experts will offer on-site assistance and information on viable options regarding foreclosure prevention assistance. Presentations will also be conducted on topics which include the foreclosure process and fraud prevention. All information will be kept confidential.

Free parking is available off Pine Avenue at the Convention Center.

The fair will be facilitated by Los Angeles Neighborhood Housing Services (LANHS), a US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)-approved housing counseling agency. For more information, please contact LANHS at 888-895-2647 or via e-mail at counseling@lanhs.org or visit the agency’s website at www.lanhs.org or the City of Carson’s Housing Development Division at (310) 233-4800.

BUHAY AMERICA TIPS:New Mailing Address for N-400 (US Citizenship) Applications

Beginning October 14, 2008, if you are planning to submit an N-400 (US citizenship) application, there's a new Lockbox address to send it to. (Military N-400 cases are still to be submitted at the Nebraska Service Center.)

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigrations Services (USCIS) will forward to the appropriate Lockbox any N-400 applications received at their facilities during the 30-day transition period.

The N-400 form instructions have been updated to reflect the new filing procedures. OTHER UPDATES to be found on the new form: Applicants are required to submit two passport-style photographs and a copy of the Permanent Resident Card for applicants who are lawful permanent residents.

Starting on October 14, applicants must submit Form N-400 and related supplements to one of two new USCIS Lockbox facilities for initial processing, using the following addresses:

Per USCIS: "Since 1998, Form N-400, Applications for Naturalization, have been filed at the four Service Centers. The Service Centers completed initial processing on the cases before the cases were forwarded to the local USCIS Field Offices for interviews. During 2008, the processing of N-400s is undergoing change through a two-step process. First, N-400 cases were transferred internally, by the Service Centers to the National Benefits Center (NBC). The NBC, located in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, began to accept N-400 cases from the Service Centers in June 2008. During the time that the first step was taken, there was no change to where the applicants filed their applications.

The Federal Register Notice begins the second step of the process, requiring the public to file their applications directly with a Lockbox facility beginning October 14, 2008. Each Lockbox facility will scan the documents submitted and complete the data entry and fee processing steps before forwarding accepted applications on to the NBC for further processing. The NBC will not accept any N-400 filings mailed directly from the public."

Helpful Info:
Click on Application for Naturalization (N-400) if you need a form. Application Fees: $595 plus a biometrics fee of $80; the fee total is $675. Applicants 75 years of age or older are not charged a biometric fee; their fee total is $595. No fee is required for military applicants filing under Section 328 and 329 of the INA. Forms dated 10/15/07, 07/30/07, 11/01/06, 05/31/01 can be used. No other editions accepted.

How You Can Help the Victims of the Metrolink Crash

On Friday, as soon as the Los Angeles train crash news came out, I immediately called my best friend. Like many trying to avoid the cost of high fuel prices, she likes riding the train every working day to Los Angeles. I was so relieved when I found out she was okay. Her train line ran the opposite way. Many people were not as lucky.

The nation’s worst train crash in 15 years - and the deadliest in Metrolink's history - occurred when a Metrolink train collided head-on with a Union Pacific freight train in Chatsworth.

This tragedy has claimed 25 lives and left 150 injured. The death toll, per news reports, could still rise owing to the large number of victims still in critical condition.

The Los Angeles County Democratic Party released a notice over the weekend to inform the public on how they can help the victims by donating blood:

"Both the American Red Cross and the UCLA Blood and Platelet Center have called on people to come out and donate blood for victims of this deadly accident. Any person 17 years or older - 16 if accompanied by a parent - and weighing at least 110 pounds is eligible to donate blood.

The UCLA Blood and Platelet Center will be open Monday through Friday to accept blood donations. Healthy donors of all blood types are needed to donate blood. Appointments can be made by calling 310-794-7217, extension 2.

The Red Cross is in need of donations of all blood types. Eligible donors are asked to schedule an appointment to donate by calling 1-800-GIVE LIFE or by visiting www.GiveLife.org. Your donation can save lives."

Those wanting more information on blood donation can visit the UCLA Blood and Platelet Center website.

[photo: LAtimes.com]

More About Philippine Passport: Reader Questions, False Information, and Outreach Dates

I got a lot of responses (and new information) relating to FilipinOnline's new Philippine passport article (July 23 post) that I thought it would be best to address some questions and give out a fresh batch of hopefully helpful info today. At the bottom, you will see the upcoming Philippine Consulate-LA outreach schedule - they will be in Arizona, San Diego & Las Vegas in the coming weeks so you don't have to travel all the way to L.A. Just apply for your passport when they're in your neck of the woods. (Before that, read also a disclaimer to a forwarded e-mail that you might've received from your friends & family that has wrong information on passport validity - mga kababayan, it doesn't automatically expire in 2010!)

Reader Question: I just missed the outreach here in Houston, Texas, just wondering if they will be going to have another one soon. If not then I guess I have to fly to LA to renew my passport... I'm planning to go on thursday Oct 2, 2008 (I hope they're open...trying to call the office, no one's answering) & fly back the next day, just to renew my passport.

Answer: No new Texas schedule yet, sorry. The consulate is open on October 2. They will be closed on October 13 (Columbus Day). The holiday notices could be viewed at their "Contact Us" page on their website - http://www.philippineconsulatela.org/. All other announcements are posted regularly on the site.

Q: very resourceful blog! thank you very much! i'm getting my passport renewed in Texas on the 9th, which part of the recent passport must i photocopy?
A: Here's what the consulate said: "...from green passport to MRP, the applicant should submit photocopy each of the following data pages (the page with photo and name), the page with entry visa (or the green card) and the last page (with the signature of the approving officer).

Q: I live in Dallas and I recently went to that outreach passport program here. 3 weeks after having submitted my application, I got a call from the consulate that my picture was rejected by Manila and that I need to mail a new set of pictures... Can anyone suggest a place/shop in Dallas where I can get royal blue background photos that will have a greater chance of being accepted by DFA?

A: I'm asking around for any suggestions as to where to get the fotos in your area but so far, no one has given me a lead.The initial response that I got from the consulate about your situation is that you should contact the PNB remittance center who contracted the photo service, but I could tell from your comment that you've already done that. The consulate is not affiliated with nor can they promote any photo company. But I understand your frustration - that blue background thing & the other requirements can really be a headache for applicants. And I hope a Texas reader can help you. I will post here any response I get.

ALSO:

Recently, I received an e-mail that has this subject: "GREEN PASSPORT - No Longer Valid Effective January 2010." The rest of the e-mail with the photo requirement list is correct but that subject line is INACCURATE. If you get that e-mail, respond with a link to this article so you can properly inform your friends and family.

Per consulate: "The green passports remain valid until its expiration date."

Finally, here is the latest OUTREACH SCHEDULE:

1.) SAN DIEGO - Sept 20 - 9:00 am until 4:00 pm at the Council of the Philippine American Organizations of San Diego County, Inc. (COPAO) Center, 832 “E” Avenue, National City, CA 91950

2.) CHANDLER, ARIZONA - Sept 27 - 9:00 am until 4:30 pm at the Barrio Fiesta, 941 West Elliot Road, Chandler, AZ 85224 (Tel: 480-855-4646).

3.) LAS VEGAS - Oct 4, 9:00 am-4:00 pm/Oct 5, 9:00 am until 2:00 pm at Seafood City, 3890 S. Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89119 (Tel: 1-702-851-0021).

Some reminders when you go:

1. All Applicants for any of the above consular services are requested to set up an appointment with the Consulate either through fax (213) 639-0990 or through email at losangelespcg@earthlink.net or at telephone no. (213) 637-3010.

2. Passport Applicants should send an advance copy of their passport application forms and data page (bearing the name and photo) of their passports to the Consulate either by fax or by email. Incomplete forms will not be processed.

3. Dual Citizenship Applicants should also send an advance copy of their application forms and supporting documents. Incomplete forms will not be processed.

4. Confirmed appointments of all applicants will be posted at the Consulate’s website (http://www.philippineconsulatela.org/).5. While walk-in applicants will also be entertained, priority will be given to those with confirmed appointments.

5. The Consulate will only accept payments in cash, postal money order or cashier’s check. Personal checks will not be accepted.

[Sources: Eric Sierra, PIO of Philippine Consulate-LA/press releases/ http://www.philippineconsulatela.org/.]

USCIS ESTABLISHES GENEALOGY PROGRAM

Fee-for-Service Program Replaces FOIA Process

Customers can now turn to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for help in researching their family’s immigration history through the agency’s new Genealogy Program.

USCIS maintains historical records documenting the arrival and naturalization of millions of immigrants who arrived in the United States since the late 1800s or and naturalized between 1906 and 1956. Until today, the process to request these records was handled through a Freedom of Information Act / Privacy Act (FOIA) request.

“In many cases USCIS is the only government agency that has certain historical records that provide the missing link which genealogists or family historians need,” said Jonathan “Jock” Scharfen, USCIS’ Acting Director.

The agency expects interest in genealogy to continue to grow. In the past four years alone, USCIS received more than 40,000 FOIA requests for historical records. The new genealogy program will create a dedicated queue for genealogists, historians and others seeking genealogical and historical records and reference services that generally require no FOIA expertise. As a result, USCIS will provide more timely responses to requests for records of deceased individuals.

Individuals may submit genealogy records requests by using the new forms, G-1041 -Genealogy Index Search Request, and G-1041A - Genealogy Records Request. Both forms are available on the new USCIS Genealogy Program page at: http://www.uscis.gov/genealogy. The fees include:

Genealogy Index Search - $20
Copy of a File on Microfilm - $20
Copy of a Textual File Copy - $35.

To read their Frequently Asked Questions page, here's the link.

[text and pic from USCIS]