'Casa Orola unveiled'

Guests who came to the newly-renovated structure, now called Casa Orola, were tickled pink as they passed by the line of NROTC cadets of Visayan Maritime Academy Global College, who saluted them at the entrance, clad in their gala uniforms. Some of the ladies giggled as they returned the salutes. The building has retained its old world charm bringing back memories of yesteryears when the old families of Negros would gather in this stately residence for special occasions.

On this sunny afternoon, Casa Orola bustled with activity and excitement during the launching of the Skills Training and Tutorial Program of the Johnny Orola, Sr. Memorial Foundation Inc.

Former Bacolod Rep. and JJO Foundation chairman, lawyer John Orola was all over the place to welcome the guests. Gracing the affair was the guest of honor, Dr. Angelo Macatangay, Honorary Consul-General, State of Florida, USA, who came with his lovely wife, Madam Luisa Matti Macatangay. Other VIPs were the Technical Education Skills Development Authority officials headed by Tess Campantero, Department of Trade and Industry representative Igmar Tupaz and Department of Science and Technology officials headed by Emily Flores. Tall and good-looking Patrick Gregorio, former president of Waterfront Hotel in Cebu, was the cynosure of all eyes (especially the ladies!) as he mingled among the guests. Also seen enjoying the delicious food and festive ambiance were some Japanese guests and even Balikbayans from Australia.

During the program, JNO (as John is fondly called), spoke of the JJO Foundation which was borne out of a desire for service to others and was a gift of the Orola siblings to their hardworking parents, Remedios Orola and the late Johnny Orola Sr.

Kudos to the Orola family for this worthwhile and exciting project that would help those aspiring for overseas jobs!

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I'm still stunned! I couldn't believe that my favorite movie, "Brokeback Mountain", didn't win an Oscar award as best picture. It has been called the biggest upset of the year since everyone thought the movie would win hands down, but the movie, "Crash" won. Fortunately, Ang Lee won as best director, the first Asian to win this award. He is now the toast of Hollywood after his two great films, "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" and now, "Brokeback Mountain".

Did you like the host of the show, Jon Stewart? Personally I found him wanting. Give me Billy Crystal or Whoopi Goldberg anytime!*