By Johnson Lazaro Controlled chaos Courtrooms are made to reflect the power of the law and of the state – the stern guy in a long dark robe sitting behind a high desk, the flags floating behind him, the secretaries flanking him, the big police officers lurking everywhere. Courtrooms are often controlled chaos – the lawyers flitting around talking to clients, the clerks milling in and out of side doors, the public flowing in from the back to fill the gallery, the underl...

With limited exceptions, USCIS no longer accepts Power of Attorney signatures. WASHINGTON —U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that petitioners and applicants who seek immigration benefits must provide a valid signature on forms submitted to the agency. In an effort to protect and safeguard the nation’s immigration system and those who benefit from it, power of attorney signatures will no longer be accepted. If forms are filed by a corporat...

SANTA CLARA COUNTY – The County of Santa Clara’s Office of the County Counsel recently filed a formal request under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) for information regarding the U.S. Census Bureau’s possible inclusion of a question regarding citizenship on the 2020 Census. The request also seeks information on how the Bureau plans to protect the privacy of individuals who respond to the Census. “It’s our responsibility as a County to educate residents about the Ce...

In its 36th Anniversary Celebration, the 7 Lakes of Northern California will be celebrated in style as the officers and members will take their oath of office to serve the two year term. “I am so proud and gladly will relinquish my duties, responsibilities and obligation as the current president of this prestigious organization, the 7 Lakes of Northern California”, to the abled, dedicated and lovely officer, Charito B. Ticzon,”, said Maricris Benitez, the outgoing presiden...

Lucky Chances Casino in Colma City barked into the Year of the Dog with the traditional Dragon Dance and fireworks spreading good cheers and prosperity to its patrons last Feb. 20. The annual Chinese culture awakened the spirit of fortune as the five dragons of great power, dignity, fertility, wisdom, and auspiciousness danced around the property ending the festivities at the parking lot with the lighting of the fireworks to wave off bad spirits and misfortunes. Managem...

Recently appointed Superior Court judge Benjamin T. Reyes II of the Superior Court of California, Contra Costa County was the guest of honor of the Batangas City Sto. Nino Devotees Association during its 39th annual Sto. Nino fiesta held January 16, 2018 at the Holy Spirit Parish Center in Fremont, California. Judge Reyes delivered a very inspirational speech regarding his experience as a lawyer and is looking forward to serve the Superior court of the State of California. ...

The Pilipino Bayanihan Resource Center (PBRC) recently elected the Officers & Board of Directors with Planning Commissioner Ray Satorre as the President. Also elected are: Helen Casaclang as Vice President, Rebecca Ayson as Secretary and Arsenio del Rosario as Treasurer. Board of Directors: Perla Ibarrientos, Monica Abello, Walter Batara, Marico Enriquez, Michael Pangilinan, Dorie Paniza, Ed Rosete and Program Coordinator, Liza Rebortura. On-going general projects o...

SAN FRANCISCO – Mayoral candidate Jane Kim recently announced her plan to address the rising public health crisis caused by the deteriorating cleanliness of San Francisco’s streets – San Francisco Loves Clean Streets. “As the Supervisor for District 6, I am very aware of this growing problem and I’ve pushed hard for more resources to help clean up our streets. As your Mayor, I will make cleaning up our streets a top priority for San Francisco,” said Kim. “Through increased...

Catching the Pan prequel By Harvey I. Barkin FOSTER CITY – Peter Pan is one of the most enduring characters of fantasy. Ever since his character appeared in J.M. Barrie’s novel at the turn of the 20th century, Pan has been featured in plays, silent film, Disney animated films, live action films (including one directed by Steven Spielberg and starring the late Robin Williams) and not just one TV series. In fact, in 1928 Peter Pan became a peanut butter brand and, in t...

By Lara Climaco | FilAm Star Correspondent Years of aggressively marketing Boracay Island as the ultimate happening place for all sorts of travelers has come to a head with President Rodrigo Duterte describing the famous tourist destination a “cesspool”. He meant it literally, because some establishments have reportedly been dumping untreated wastewater into the island’s tranquil waters. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has so far issued notice...