It was just three weeks ago when many of us, in our revelry to usher 2007, partied and sang, Auld Lang Syne (a tribute to "the times gone past; the good old days"). This week, this song will reverberate across Scotland and many parts of the globe in honor of Robert Burns, the greatest Scottish poet, whose birth anniversary will be celebrated on Thursday. Auld Lang Syne is the most popular poem of Burns which was later composed as a song, whose appeal cuts across the globe.

In our op-ed calendar-feature for the week, we focus on two countries - Australia and India, which are celebrating their national days - in fanfare and pageantry as well as state functions. Another country, Vietnam, commemorates a historic event - signing of the Paris accord 34 years ago which eventually brought peace to its people.

Our cover story focuses on an orphanage which a man's dream built. The orphanage, the Señor Sto. Niño Homes, now with 28 young children-clients, marks this week its third anniversary with another testimonial of the Negrense's generosity of spirit - the inauguration of the chapel which was constructed out of the care and love of another family. The Sisters of the Blessed Virgin Missionaries of Carmel invite the faithful to visit the place.

We conclude in our issue the two-part contribution of an Alberta, Canada-based Negrense, who writes about the challenges faced by Filipinos in that country and the fast-tracking effort in the northern province for foreign employment due to the boom it has been experiencing.

Columnist Ian Casocot looks into the works of the late scriptwriter Amado Lacuesta Jr. and how they have depicted the evolution of the Filipino woman.

On the lighter side, we focus on the winners of the Teen Calendar competition sponsored by a city mall as well as the aspirants for the regional school-based personality competition which will be held in Roxas City early next month.

For those who want to take a break today, enjoy the Sinulog rhythm and movements in Kabankalan City. Old, recent or new, let's cherish the restful and relaxing Sundays we have.