Wednesday, September 30, 2009

A Challenge to Students on Vacation

Jeff


After the disaster that typhoon Ondoy brought, the education department Deped and CHED that there are no classes until Friday for elementary and high school students and until Saturday for college students. That means, no assignments, no arrangement and use of exam tables in school.

For a lot of students this means free time and time to go to the mall. But for those affected by the typhoon, there is no time to enjoy. A challenge to students out there: why not take this moment to live your life for others – take time to help out, volunteer or even initiate something that can assist those who are in need.



On POS and Other Related Stuff

Jeff
If you are the type who works on barcode scanners, POS and other stuff related to that, you can check out POSguys.com. This is a site that has everything related to POS, barcode scanners, barcode label software, mobile computing and other POS accessories.



They also offer other services like custom card printing, custom programming, credit card processing and barcode generation. Visit their site for more information on barcode scanners and related stuff.

Ketsana - Ondoy Typhoon: My First Hand Experience from Rizal

Jeff
Typhoon Ketsana, whose PAGASA name was Ondoy, formed early on September 23 2009 and left a trail of disaster in the areas of Marikina, Malabon, Muntinlupa, Quezon, Makati, Pasay, Pasig, Valenzuela and San Juan. Flooding also occured in nearby provinces of Bulacan, Rizal, Laguna and other Southern Tagalog areas. Major roads were rendered impassable because of huge flood currents and clogged cars. Our area, which is called Lower Antipolo was also hit.

This tropical typhoon, Ketsana and locally called Ondoy, has brought record rainfall to Metro Manila, not seen since the start of rainfall record keeping according to Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), producing only moderate winds but hours of extremely heavy rain, which led to the worst flooding in living memory. I read that the usual amount of rainfall received in one month was brought by Ondoy in six hours.

We were able to document our first hand experience of this disaster in our own neighborhood (Kingsville Subdivision, Lower Antipolo). Below are some pictures from September 26 to 29 as Ondoy ravaged Metro Manila.



September 26, 2009, Saturday at 10:20am: The flood hasn't reached our elevated garage but has filled the street.



At 1:05pm: the flood has reached our elevated garage and has entered the house of our in-laws. We were hoping it wouldn't rise and not reach our house.


At 5:45pm: the flood has reached our elevated garage and has entered our house. It has become waist-deep in the middle of the street.


At this point, we decided to evacuate and we were thankful that our next-door neighbor accommodated us and let us use one of the rooms on their second floor. As soon as we have evacuated our families, I, with my brother-in-law and their helper went back to salvage what we can. When we did what we could, we went to our neighbor's house and hoped the flood wouldn't continue to rise.

At 9:40pm: The flood waters continued to rise. It has become neck-deep in the middle of the street. In the lower part of the subdivision it has reached up to 15 feet deep.

Thank God we were able to evacuate our family and He provided a place of shelter for us. I feel deeply saddened for the other typhoon victims - for their greater loss. May God have mercy on us all.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Need Acne Treatments?

Jeff
Many teenagers and singles encounter problems with their skin especially during those times when they are waiting to meet a person from the opposite sex. Those who have problems with acne and pimples consult dermatologists and others try other acne products for cures. GetAcneTreatments.com is a web site that can provide information about acne and pimple products. Visit this site for more information.


Honda Adjusts City and Jazz Prices: Can We Catch Up?

Jeff
Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. announces plans to adjust the suggested retail prices of its mighty subcompacts, the Honda City and Jazz models. Effective October 1, 2009, all City and Jazz models will have minimal increase in price amounting to Php 5,000 and Php 10,000, respectively. The 1.3-liter A City variant with manual transmission will be priced at Php 681,000 while the 1.3-liter S Jazz variant with manual transmission will be priced at Php 732,000.

The announcement ends the introductory prices of the City in January 2009, when the 3rd generation model was officially launched in the local market.



The entry of the 3rd generation City and 2nd generation Jazz in the market reinforced Honda’s claim on the passenger car segment. This year’s combined City and Jazz sales from January to August more than doubled as compared to the same period in 2008. Such favorable market acceptance enabled Honda to increase its total passenger car sales by 35%.

Bearing refined and class-leading features that are once reserved for luxury vehicles, the City neatly merges modernism with practicality for an ultimate driving pleasure. The launch of the 3rd generation City simply changes the rules on how subcompacts should be like.

The Honda Jazz also ups the ante for subcompacts. This multi-awarded model has been acclaimed for its remarkable use of space, thanks to its versatile ULTRA seats. Its innovative seat configurations can accommodate almost anything- be it tall, long or any utility items.

Just like any other Honda vehicle in the country, the City and the Jazz models are equipped with an advanced i-VTEC technology that makes the most out of every drop of fuel. By employing valve timing combination that pumps in fuel only as needed, the i-VTEC engine creates a perfect blend of remarkable fuel economy and optimum power output.

Apart from outstanding fuel efficiency, Honda vehicles are also engineered to pass the stringent European Emission Standards that regulate the amount of pollution that can be released into the atmosphere. Among local manufacturers, Honda is the only brand that has reached EURO 4 levels for all its model line-up.


Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Gym Set for Less Than Nine Thousand Pesos

Jeff
In our last visit to the mall, I came across a gym set for less than (PHP) 9,000 pesos. It is inclusive of 50 lbs of rubber covered weight plates (for safety). You can do bench press both standard and inclined, it has a detachable preacher curl for the biceps, and leg curls for lower body work out.

I am considering about investing money on this rather than enrolling in a gym. It will not necessarily keep me from getting the best diet pills but it would be a good opportunity to give muscles regular work out.


Friday, September 18, 2009

Red Ribbon Introduces the White Forest Cake: "Let There Be White"

Jeff
Let There Be White" was officially launched today and it is Red Ribbon's introduction of their new product, the White Forest cake. I joined with the mommies (because my wife was there, too, so we opted to be together) and had only less than twenty who got the first taste of this very delicious and unique cake.


Red Ribbon's White Forest: Let There Be White!



Red Ribbon presented, during the "Let There Be White" event, the three basic ingredients of the White Forest: creamy white chocolate and moist white chiffon, with cherry bits fillings in between layers, crowned with cream rosettes with long-stemmed, red maraschino cherries on top and finished with white chocolate shavings. The result is a real sweet tooth treat. This new product is priced at (PHP) P560 for the regular sized cake and (PHP) P335 for the junior size. The White Forest was inspired by the popular Black Forest cake which originated from Germany.



In the event, bloggers were treated with other new products from Red Ribbon. We tried their Spaghetti with Meatballs, Grilled Ensaimada with Farmer's Ham and other new meals. I so loved their Ube Mamon best!

After the event, it was my turn to treat my officemates. I let them have the chance to taste the White Forest before the official launch in stores, thanks to Red Ribbon's "Let There Be White".



Thursday, September 17, 2009

Staff Retreat at Doane Rest, Baguio City

Jeff
This weekend the members of the pastoral and administrative staff (and family) of our mother church and its daughter and extension ministries will be holding staff planning and retreat at Doane Rest Ministry Retreat and Conference Center in Baguio City. I am personally excited for the chance to plan with other pastors and for our families to fellowship with each other in this trip.


Doane Rest Accommodations
(Family Cottages, 2 bedroom cottages, 1 bedroom cottages, 1 bedroom apartments)



I visited the official site of Doane Rest in Baguio (www.doanerest.com) to get a glimpse of the place and felt more excited to see that the place is very green, with some patio furniture and areas for kids to run around. It's a great place for families. The rates range from $36 to $72 for multiple occupants.


Doane Rest has a soccer field and a play area for kids


We hope we get some time to go around Baguio City and perhaps meet other bloggers and friends. Our three-day-two-night planning and retreat with the SBC family will surely be exciting and we are excited to get settled in to our room in Doane Rest.


Trying the Crispy Dinuguan at Kanin Club

Jeff
Kanin Club in Techno Hub, Commonwealth, Quezon City


We had the opportunity of trying out the food at Kanin Club last week. We were supposed to to try it on my birthday but when we drove to the Techno Hub along Commonwealth, Quezon City we were greeted with men in blue uniform directing traffic. The side Commonwealth where the entrance to Techno Hub was located was closed to traffic so we ended up at another restaurant somewhere in Tomas Morato.


Crispy Dinuguan


We have been hearing about Kanin Club's Crispy Dinuguan so we tried that out. It was something new and it tasted real good. But with only three of us eating, me, my wife and my son, the meat was too much for us. I think we would have appreciated eating at the restaurant better if we were with a bigger group so we could share viands.

Having early lunch at Kanin Club

The place was nice, with a Filipino touch. The music played was also Filipino band (drum and lire type) music. It was funny because our son danced to the music while eating early dinner at Kanin Club. I wondered why he enjoyed the music so much.

The counter


Kanin Club has a Filipino ambience

The price was reasonable, we got the Crispy Dinuguan for (PHP) P261 and it was more than enough for the three of us. We had the leftover packed and shared it with our in-laws. Over all, we liked our visit their and we look forward to trying the other specialties of Kanin Club.


Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Join the Krispy Kreme Fave Fan Search Contest!

Jeff

When I heard and read about the Krispy Kreme Fave Fan Search Contest I thought to myself that I really have to know how it works and blog about it. So I visited the site of Krispy Kreme contest’s official site at krispykremefavefan.com and read about how a Krispy Kreme fan like me or my four-year-old son can participate in the contest.






First of all, the Krispy Kreme FaveFan Promo is part of the celebration of their 72nd year in business. They are in search of their number one fan and it is ongoing in nine countries, namely, Australia, Canada, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, United Kingdom and our very own country the Philippines. It is required in the contest for a fan to submit a with a not-longer-than-72-word caption. In the caption, the fan must answer the question, “How has Krispy Kreme made your life special?"




The photos above are samples of what you can submit as entry in this contest of Krispy Kreme. It must be noted, though, that only fans aged 18 and older can join this contest and must have a passport and US visa (or are willing to apply for one at their own expense). But, any fan can get the opportunity of being called Krispy Kreme’s number one fave fan for the country they represent. The country winner will get 12 dozen doughnuts for a year and will be flown to Krispy Kreme’s home in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA where country winners will be introduced to each other. These country winners will compete against each other where they will have to design their own Krispy Kreme doughnut. These doughnuts that were designed will be uploaded unto the official Krispy Kreme Fave Fan website KIRSPYKREMEFAVEFAN.COM, where it will be subject to online voting. You can also
Join the Krispy Kreme FaveFan Promo Facebook page.

So start taking pictures or looking for those shots with you eating a Krispy Kreme donut and join the “Krispy Kreme Fave Fan Search” Contest now!

Monday, September 14, 2009

Canon Future Nation Event Pushes Through Despite Rains

Jeff
It was the perfect date, 09/09/09, but not exactly the perfect weather, but still the Canon Future Nation Event saw the gathering of media and Canon's team and their new products that were launched. My wife and I left our house in Antipolo as early as 9:00 AM and braved the heavy rains and floods to get to Whitespace, Pasong Tamo Extension.



We were the first ones who arrived to the Canon Future Nation and had the luxury of going around the booths in the event area to get a glimpse of the new products that Canon Philippines launched: the prosumer Canon PowerShot G11 and S90, the telephoto PowerShot SX20 IS and SX120 IS, the slim and stylish Digital IXUS 120 IS and 200 IS, and the much-anticipated EOS 7D DSLR. Brief descriptions and photos of the products can be viewed below.





The RAW-capable G11 and S90 take the prosumer spotlight with two key innovations: the Dual Anti-Noise System, which builds on the power of DIGIC 4 to significantly improve low-light performance, and a 10-Megapixel High-Sensitivity CCD sensor that features bigger photodiodes, effectively optimizing per-pixel sensitivity. The result? Images that are “cleaner” and more brilliant than ever. The G11 stands out with an all-new Vari-angle LCD screen and a classic DSLR-like body, while the S90 impresses with its bright, F/2.0 lens packed in a slim and solid form.

Canon Powershot G11



Canon Powershot S90


The PowerShot SX20 IS and SX120 IS are versatile models that can capture macro shots at 0cm to super zoom shots at 20x and 10x Optical Zoom, respectively. Both models are also armed with DIGIC 4 Imaging Processor and 720p HD Movie Recording.

Canon PowerShot SX20 IS


Caon PowerShot SX120 IS

From the Digital IXUS line are two groundbreaking slim cameras: the IXUS 120 IS, Canon’s slimmest 28mm camera to date, and the IXUS 200 IS, the brand’s first-ever touch panel model. Equipped with 12.1-Megapixel sensors, both these cameras can take 720p HD stills and movies and come in a wide range of classic colors.

Canon Digital IXUS 120 IS


Canon Digital IXUS 200 IS


Canon EOS 7D is built for the demanding advanced amateur photographer who would invest in the right equipment to achieve the desired results. Powered by two DIGIC 4 processors, the EOS 7D offers the highest quality images in its class with an 18-megapixel CMOS sensor (APS-C size) and user-selectable sensitivity range from ISO 100-6400 (expandable to ISO 12,800). It also features a high continuous shooting rate of 8fps to capture fast-moving action sequences at a maximum burst of approximately 94 shots for large/fine jpeg images, and 15 shots in RAW. For more information about the new products launched in the Canon Future Nation event, visit www.canon.com.ph.


Monday, September 7, 2009

Visit This Site for Major Injury Claims

Jeff
WashingtonInjury.com is an online source for Seattle personal injury attorneys. Whatever the case, whether it is about auto, construction, boating, pedestrian or motorcycle accidents, this web site can be of great help. There are tips about how to handle insurance claims in their site that are very helpful and informational. Please feel free to check out their web site for more details.

God Has Been a Faithful Provider

Jeff
It has been more than two years since we have moved to our own house and as I look back I can’t help but be thankful to God for how he worked everything out for us. Since my wife and I got married in December of 2001and before moving in to where we live now, we have rented four times. The first one was an apartment near the Masinag area, the second one was a house in the same area, the third was in Pembo, Makati (September 2004) – that was when we got pregnant with our son, Jed – and the fourth one was also in Makati, in Comembo.



When I think about the times we moved, which also entailed packing our stuff (which was a lot because we inherited a library from my wife’s uncle) and carrying inside the house when we unpacked and re-arranged each time we moved to a new home, I can’t help but remember my conversation with my wife when we moved to the fourth house (2006). That apartment was on the third floor and we had to pass through a small and dark passage way and two flights up a narrow, wooden staircase. Just imagine how difficult it is to move stuff. We hired a moving company but I had to start moving little stuff and appliances using our car because we indeed had a lot of stuff in our house. That was so very tiring that out of exhaustion I told my wife that the next time we moved, it will be to our own house.

Since then, we have started praying to God about getting our own house. I testify today that He has been so faithful to provide our needs. The Lord has answered our prayers! In April of 2007 we moved in to our house. We didn’t have to think about house loan rates or mortgage insurance rates. Right now, we are paying a fixed amount every month and we will be doing this for less than twelve years more before the house is fully paid. At thirty-four, I just praise God that He has allowed our family to be settled this way. I give all the glory to Him!

Learning About Honda's Engine Development: i-VTEC

Jeff
Since the Honda Challenge Cup 2009, I have fallen in love with Honda cars. In fact, my wife and I will soon venture into what we call our "City Project". We plan to pay off all our debts soon and then save up for a down payment for a new Honda City.

Honda Cars Philippines has been sending me information about their technology and I am loving what I have been learning about them. I would like to share with you about Honda's engines which started from CVCC (Compound Vortex Controlled Combustion) engine in 1974 (I wasn't born then) to the VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) engine which developed into the VTEC 3 engine in the 90's, to this century's i-VTEC engine which is Honda's latest breakthrough in Variable Timing Control (VTC).

Honda's i-VTEC engine


Below is an article from Honda Cars Philippines about the developments in their engine technology:




Honda’s DNA: The i-VTEC Engine

In the same way two long chains of nucleotides determine who we are, each Honda car is created out of two principles embedded in its long and colorful tradition, “fun in driving” and “care for the environment”. Much like our DNA, the combination of these two principles governs how each Honda car should be built.

For years, however, US car manufacturers were challenged to create the car that could deliver the power consumers demanded and at the same time do what was then deemed impossible: pass the U.S. Clean Air Act. But this predicament was before 1972. Before Honda shocked the world by doing the impossible.

The CVCC or Compound Vortex Controlled Combustion engine characterized Honda’s relentless pursuit in finding the perfect balance between “fun driving” and “care for the environment.” Before the CVCC, car manufacturers had to install catalytic converters to reduce the toxicity of the emissions. Honda redesigned the engine to optimize the amount of fuel burned thereby producing cleaner emissions and better fuel mileage. The U.S. came to know the CVCC engine through the 1974 Civic, which was also the first model to pass the U.S. Clean Air Act. The CVCC engine cemented Honda’s reputation, especially in the U.S., as a manufacturer of well-built economy cars. And as prices of gases went up during the oil crisis of 1973, Honda left many competitors in the dust with its reliable, economical models.

Then, in the 1980’s, as consumers demanded for even more powerful cars with more economy, Honda once again accepted the challenge. Honda realized that the new demand called for a new breed of engine. Increasing the power output may have been easy; but Honda’s goal of producing 100 hp per liter was no mean feat considering that most 4-cylinder engines of that time were averaging only 50-60 hp per liter. But Honda was used to redefining the car industry. And it did so in style when it shattered all engine myths and, for the first time, put driving performance and fuel efficiency in one specs sheet.

The Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control or VTEC engine revolutionized the car industry with its two differently shaped cam lobes and two rocker arms per cylinder for two different combustion settings. This allowed the engine to regulate valve operation and optimize performance at all engine speeds. During low engine speeds, the valves are made to open a relatively small amount for better economy. As the car kicks in to higher engine speeds, the valves are made to open wide for higher air and fuel intake thereby delivering more power. This way, the VTEC technology was able to combine spirited, powerful performance, fuel efficiency, and cleaner emissions in one engine.

In the next few years, Honda devoted more time and research to further develop this DNA and meet the needs of society for fun-to-drive but environment-friendly cars. By the late 1990’s Honda came up with the 3-stage VTEC engine or VTEC 3, so called because of the three stages the engine goes through to boost engine power and fuel efficiency. At less than 2500 rpm, it turns off one intake valve per cylinder in the 16-valve engine to save fuel. From 2500–6000 rpm, all the valves are used and it functions like a normal VTEC engine. As the rpm rises to 6000, a wild cam lobe is engaged to increase the engine’s performance.

Then, the 21st century came and Honda welcomed it with its latest breakthrough in Variable Timing Control or VTC. This new innovation gave birth to an even more powerful incarnation of the VTEC engine—the i-VTEC. Whereas the previous VTEC engines are only capable of controlling valve lift and duration during distinct low and high rpms, the i-VTEC engine had continuous phase control of the intake valve depending on engine load rotation. This allowed for better balance between high power and fuel economy and resulted to even cleaner emissions.

Honda’s desire to perfect the balance between driving performance and eco-friendliness would push it to even greater heights. In mid-2000’s Honda unveiled the new lighter, shorter, and quieter i-VTEC engine. This new engine, which now serves as the base for all new Honda car models, makes the most of every drop of fuel by delaying intake valve closure timing during low-load conditions, thereby improving Honda’s already impressive fuel economy.

Knowing Honda, this latest i-VTEC engine wouldn’t be the last in a line of breakthroughs that have reshaped the car industry. Honda’s quest to create sporty, fun-to-drive vehicles that have the least impact on the environment is, to say the least, truly ingrained on its DNA. And as Honda explores other ways to make greener and spirited engines, the car buying public can rest assured that the future generation of cars will come from a very good family.

To know more about Honda’s latest products and technologies, log on to www.hondaphil.com.

Saturday, September 5, 2009

One More Day and I'm Thirty-Four

Jeff
As I will be turning thirty-four tomorrow I can actually observe my pictures and see that I am indeed getting old. The gray hair on the sides of my head are starting to become so obvious and wrinkles around my eyes are becoming more prominent that maybe even the best eye cream for wrinkles would not be effective on them.

But even as another year adds on to my life I am reminded by a passage that says,


“Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. “ (Psalm 90:12)

Externally, as one gets older, a lot of things may be moving towards failing as the natural tendency of the corrupted body manifests, internally, wisdom is gained through many learning experiences. And I celebrate God’s faithfulness through all the years of my life especially this past seven years with my family because life has become more exciting with them. Thank You, Lord!


Friday, September 4, 2009

Globe Tattoo Youniverse and IMMORTALTXT Launched!

Jeff
Last August 29 Globe Telecom organized a bloggers' event to launch Globe Tattoo Youniverse and the new IMMORTALTXT. The event started light when almost all bloggers met at M Cafe at the Ayala Museum. We, bloggers, were all curious about the event's purpose and objectives especially because we were all invited to "dress to impress" and dared to do the unknown.

Bloggers met at M Cafe for the Globe Tattoo Youniverse launch



Harley motorbikers

We eventually learned that it was about Globe Tattoo Youniverse, Globe Telecom's new look online (tattoo.globe.com.ph) and IMMORTALTXT, their new promo. But it was after seeing Harley motorbikers arrive at the vicinity and we followed them to Handle Bar, where the main part of the event was held. We were greeted with loud band music playing and treated to a buffet lunch.

While some bloggers chit chatted with other bloggers, others enjoyed the bar's drinks and other amenities. We played billiards before the launch and while others ate lunch. Other bloggers sent their messages to Globe so they could see them on a big LCD screen where the Globe Tattoo Youniverse message senders text messages were viewed. Then after a few minutes, Pao Peña from Globe started to introduce the new image of their company online - Globe Tattoo Youniverse, a widget-based, interactive site for the new breed of Globe users. He also introduced the IMMORTALTXT, the first and only text offer with no expiry. Globe says that for just ten pesos (P10), subscribers can enjoy 50 texts to Globe/TM and 10 texts to other networks that will never expire. (To register, simply text IMMORTAL10 to 8888).

The Globe Tattoo Youniverse and IMMORTALTXT Launching


The main feature of the event was one blogger, among many bloggers who were dared to get a tattoo, was chosen to win a netbook. After the main band played (UP Dharma Down), the awarding and a short message from Globe Telecom's CEO, we were brought back to the Ayala Museum where everything began. It was a long event but it was great to be part of the first few to know about IMMORTALTXT and the Globe Tattoo Youniverse.



Tuesday, September 1, 2009

A Tip on How You Can Start Spending Smart

Jeff
In these times when gas prices are unpredictable it is wise to start thinking How You Can Start Spending Smart. Yes, and it's not necessarily spending on cheaper products but being able find what can best maximize your money.









Zenni Optical ofers $ 8 Rx eyeglasses. They are cheap but they are worth more than the amount one pays for their product. Above are just a few of My favorite high fashion eyeglasses from their site.