'Happy, happy holidays!'

A very Merry Christmas to one and all! This holiday season has been one of joyful family reunions, parties galore, birthdays and intimate get-togethers among friends who haven't seen each other for a long time.

A grand dame who celebrated her 84th birthday recently was the inimitable Meding Orola, still saucy and witty as ever (yes, she can still dance a passionate tango!). This year's birthday celebration was held at George Restaurant with her children on hand to help their Mama welcome her numerous friends and relatives. The beloved matriarch was given tributes by her kids, led by former Bacolod Rep. John Orola, and adoring grandchildren. One of the most applauded numbers were the songs by Joe Leonardia and Pancho Uytiepo. These two fantastic entertainers brought the house down! Happy Birthday, Tita Meding!

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A most elegant dinner was given by Lyn Gamboa, president of the Negros Museum, to welcome Balikbayan Yolanda Ballesteros, who now lives in Las Vegas, USA. Lyn's lovely home in Silay was all aglow with glittering lights and lanterns on the trees in her terrace. The intimate group composed of Yoly Ballesteros, Vicky Ledesma, Merle Severino, Lanibelle Javelosa, Robert Harland and yours truly, enjoyed delicious hor d'oeuvres served with wine while a cool breeze blew gently, creating ripples on the swimming pool. Sounds of laughter filled the air as Yoly's happy group of old friends recalled the good old days, days of wine and roses, bygone days which are now only memories. Yoly regaled the group with stories about her life in the States and how wonderful it was to be back home.

We then moved to the dining room where the table was exquisitely laid out with the best crystal, china and silver complete with name plates and menu. The formal sit-down dinner was typically Lyn, who outdid herself with the excellent Filipino dinner. Everyone extolled the superb meal served with flair and style. Welcome home Yoly!

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I would also like to welcome home my family from Davao City: Pastor Gary Visitacion (of Phil Challenge, Inc), his lovely wife Grace, kids Brian, Jayjay and Stephen who are here for the holidays, making our Christmas celebration complete. They are also bringing in today, 26 Australian Sports Ambassadors from Perth Australia, who will be holding exhibition basketball games (men and women), against the local basketball teams in Negros. Welcome to Bacolod!*