The Rock Summer 2014
Transcripción
The Rock Summer 2014
the ROCK Camp Rocks! The Official Publication of The Rockwell Club MAY 2014 Summer Campers on their fun, fulfilling activities NEW! Chef Jessie’s menu for a healthier you Plus: Check out what you can sign up for! Summer Lovin’ Rockwell Club members share their favorite vacation stories Summer! Let’s Toast to Enjoy fresh, fruity drinks at Chef Jessie’s RESORT PERK: Hotel Kamana sanctuary resort and spa What’s Inside: THE ROCKWELL CLUB BASKETBALL LEAGUE Summer Issue 2014 Play ball with fellow members by joining this annual tournament! Members aged 16 years old and above are welcome to participate. Registration fee is Php 1,300 per person, inclusive of jersey. You may sign-up in any of our gym receptions or call Sports & Recreation at 8978310 local 7434. 24 12 12 24 28 30 The Healthier Gourmet - Chef Jessie’s rolls out their new menu. The Summer Chronicles - Rockwell Club members share their favorite summer stories. An Easy Escape - Discover Hotel Kamana Sanctuary Resort & Spa Photoscapes - The Rockwell Photography Club showcases their travel snapshots. UPCOMING EVENTS SWIM . BIKE . RUN Our first fitness triathlon for the whole family! Create 30 a team of 3 members – parents, kids, aunts, uncles, grandpa and grandma - various combos are welcome. Swim at the Club lap pool, cycle using our stationary bikes and run around Power Plant Mall. Team with the best time wins! Division A: 2 adults and 1 child/dependent (18 years old & above) Division B: 2 adults and 1 child/dependent (13 to 17 years old) Division C: 2 adults and 1 child/dependent (8 to 12 years old) 28 November 21, 2014, Saturday 6:00AM to 11:00 AM Club poolside 23 | THE ROCK Registration fee is P 500 per head or P 1,500 per team, inclusive of a shirt. Winning teams will each receive a trophy and special prizes. For inquiries or registration, call our Sports & Recreation Team at 8978310 local 7434. ROCKWELL PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB Calling shutter bugs! Rockwell’s first and only club for photography enthusiasts is accepting new members. All active club members and Rockwell residents are welcome. The group meets once a month for a themed-photo contest, workshops with photography experts and shooting trips. Interested to join? Please get in touch with Sylveth Ong-iko through [email protected] or call 8978310 loc. 7403. EXHIBIT YELLOW DOOR GALLERY at Palm Grove Palm Grove comes alive with a display of authentic paintings by Carlos and other local artists. For interested art buyers, you may contact 0917-8225673 or email [email protected] 3RD QUARTER | THE ROCK 3 M E M B E R S HI P AD V I S ORY LETTER F ROM T H E F RONT Busy Club. Happy Members! A FRIENDLY REMINDER: KEEP YOUR CREDIT CARDS UPDATED Now that the first quarter and the cooler months are behind us, it’s time to look forward to summer and the sunshiny weather that accompanies it! We started this year with an array of traditions and a celebration of cultures. January was about the Japanese Shogatsu (New Year) Buffet and Sake Wine Tasting which were both such a big hit, that we’re planning another one within the year. February was extra memorable after that Great Gatsby-inspired Valentine Dinner held at The Loft @ Manansala. Overall, we are extremely happy that so many members were able to come and celebrate with us. The Club has implemented the Auto-Charge Policy for all members. In order to avoid inconvenience when you visit the Club, please remember to update your credit card details on record. Expired credit cards may result to the temporary suspension of your signing privilege as well as use of the Club’s services and facilities. If you haven’t joined us yet, it’s never too late as we start off the summer months with our family events and gatherings! Our Events and Sports & Recreation teams worked closely together to come up with fabulous summer activities for our members of all ages. We will definitely make your summer break a family affair! NO CARD, NO SERVICE POLICY For the interest of dues-paying members, we are strictly implementing the No Card, No Service Policy. As for the gastronomic side of the Club, we have temporarily relocated Rocky’s Café to Palm Grove as we make way for a fresher look in the second quarter of this year. In the meantime, try the new offerings at Rocky Cafe’s and enjoy the improved menu with the garden view as we continue to cook up a variety of cuisines for you. Also soon to open is Chef Jessie’s side entrance along Lopez Drive. We have a whole gamut of classes, activities, and events planned for you and your family to take advantage of. Make sure to spend your leisure time with us and I personally look forward to seeing and meeting all of you during the Club’s summer season! 2014 CAR STICKERS. NOW AVAILABLE! Geng Brillantes Starting on April 01, only cars with 2014 car stickers will be allowed entry to the Club’s parking area. ON THE COVER Beetroot Grape Shake with a splash of lemon, Strawberry Lemonade with Ginger Shake and Kale Mango Shake are all available at Chef Jessie’s. Photography by Patrick Martires Styled by Tata Mapa AVP - General Manager The Rockwell Club Directory THE ROCK Editorial Consultants: Geng Brillantes, Annabelle Ong-T. Editor in Chief I Tata Mapa Managing Editor I Sylveth Ong-iko ART DIRECTOR I Tracy Santuyo Contributors Loren Evangelista, Chloe Lopez-Tan, Ria Tinio Photographers I Ocs Alvarez, Patrick Martires, Jun Pinzon, Sundee Guevara, Crissy Castillo 4 THE ROCK This privilege is non-transferable. Same policies apply in the issuance of car stickers. Our Membership Relations Associates will gladly issue a temporary card for you. Lost your membership card? Ask any of our Membership Relations Associates for a replacement card. GM’s Office Membership Services 756-1533/ 897-8310 loc. 7444 / 7445 Membership Administration 450-2984 Billing & Collection 450-2991 Sports & Recreation 897-8310 loc. 7431 or 7434 Spa Banquet Services Join our Facebook pages: The Rockwell Club Rockwell Leisure You can also follow us on twitter @TheRockwellClub For each membership, the first two (2) car stickers are free. A third car sticker may be bought at P600.00. FORGOT TO BRING YOUR MEMBERSHIP CARD? 756-1516 450-2994 For news and updates, visit www.therockwellclub.com Get your stickers now to avoid inconvenience when using the Club’s parking area. We ask for our members understanding and cooperation as this is to ensure that only bonafide active members are able to enjoy the Club’s services and facilities. 756-1561/ 450-2989 Food & Beverage Chef Jessie at Rockwell 450-2993/ 450-2995 Rocky’s Cafe & Bar 756-1534 Juice Bar by Fruit Magic 897-8310 loc.7432 IN THE INTEREST OF OUR KIDS Club Kiddos, the Club’s kiddie center, has implemented the No Socks, No Entry Policy. We have recently replaced the rubber matting of Club Kiddos and would like to ensure that we keep this clean for our Rockwell kids. THE ROCK 5 U.P. Tugma Ensemble performed duet pieces using the koto instrument. R E C E NT E V E NT S R E C E NT E V E NT S Japanese FESTIVAL 2014 Rockwell residents bonded and made a toast with sake. We welcomed the new year with an O-Shogatsu Festival, a series of events featuring a free Sake Tasting , a trade fair at the Club Walkway that showcased popular snacks, cosmetics and products from Japan. The main event was held at the Palm Grove which featured a lunch buffet spread with over 25 dishes prepared by Yurakuen Restaurant of Diamond Hotel Philippines. Membership Relations Associate Anne delos Santos welcomed guests in a Kimono. Hiro, a Japanese calligraphy artist gave away personalized name art during the trade fair. More than a dozen kinds of sake were featured during the exclusive tasting event. Linda Qian, Mika Bautista, Yasuko and Koji Onozawa A traditional geisha dance was performed during the lunch buffet. 6 THE ROCK Andrea, Sophie and Gio Co with the Diamond Hotel officers. Guests feasted on a sashimi spread. 3RD QUARTER | THE ROCK 7 R E C E NT E V E NT S R E C E NT E V E NT S Sparkling wines by Forth and Tay. Radha and Gian Magdangal Stardust and All That Jazz The Rockwell Club celebrated Valentines with a Gatsby-inspired dinner at The Loft @ Manansala. We were thrilled to see our members all glammed up—sipping free-flowing sparkling wines by Forth & Tay, and dazzling in their roaring 1920s fashion. The highlight of the night was a special concert featuring the 9works Philharmonic Orchestra and the country’s Soul Diva and R&B goddess, Radha, who gave a powerhouse performance of classic love ballads, medleys of songs by the Heart and The Beatles and some of the most memorable pop tunes from the ‘80s. Special guests were recording artists and theater veterans Gian Magdangal and OJ Mariano. It was a dazzling night indeed. Romantic and intimate, with just the right dose of fierce and fun. Radha with Rockwell Club officers Annabelle Ong-T., Geng Brillantes, Sylveth Ong-iko and Club President Boy Granados. 8 THE ROCK Text by Sylveth Ong-iko Photos by Sundee Guevara OJ Mariano Gian Magdangal, CJ Javarata, Garlic Garcia and Rafa Siguion-Reyna Jinky and Blair Duncan Peachy Atilano and Robbie Guevara Akiko Thompson, Chips Guevara, Tricia Canapi and Ian Monsod 3RD QUARTER | THE ROCK 9 Tri-color Fusili with Zucchini and Micro Arugula makes for a light yet hearty vegetarian dish. Smoked Milkfish and Brown Rice comes with a generous drizzling of healthy olive oil and is served with homemade pickled raw papaya. except for calcium, but because I’m mindful about what I eat, I have enough energy to work from morning until midnight. “ Gourmet the healthier The Rockwell Club’s beloved Chef Jessie creates a new menu with your good health in mind. Photos by Patrick Martires 12 THE ROCK | Text by Tata Mapa That being said, Chef Jessie adds that the new additions to her menu were also inspired by and specially created with her clientele in mind—particularly those who now have to watch what they Whether it’s for a business lunch, a romantic dinner, or a special celebration with the whole family, Rockwell Club members know that it’s always such a treat to dine at Chef Jessie’s. And this summer, our resident esteemed chef takes the notion of good eats to a whole new level. eat. “I want to take care of the people who come and dine with us. I also want to help even our young patrons develop a healthy lifestyle as far as food is concerned.” Healthier Selections The move towards healthier choices starts off with the selection of ingredients. “I make sure to go to the Fettuccini a la Creme with seared jumbo scallops in moringa cream is still extra rich and indulgent but it gets a dash of goodness with some seafood and moringa leaves. “I’ve been wanting to add new, healthier dishes to the menu for some time now,” Chef Jessie confesses. “I’ve always been a healthy eater, and I really choose what I put in my mouth. They say we are what we eat. So if we want to look good, we have to be very selective about the food we take in. I personally don’t take any medication, and I don’t even take any vitamins 3RD QUARTER | THE ROCK 13 outlook that guides Chef Jessie in her choices. It also results in a fruity feast of a salad that is sure to be crisp and scrumptious. In the future, diners can also look forward to delicious dessert creations made with fresh fruit, yoghurt, and a lot of dark chocolate. Taste Comes First “When I concoct something for the first time,” Chef Jessie qualifies, “I have to make sure it’s full-flavored and full-bodied with a complete texture. You have to experience true satisfaction with every bite, and every dish should give the guest a complete experience that is gratifying.” Chicken Supreme with Mushroom Duxelles and Pan-fried Goose Liver is a lighter spin on a Chef Jessie signature dish that is usually paired with the richer duck or beef instead of the leaner chicken breast. “Of course not everything is lean,” Chef Jessie admits with a laugh, “There will still be those who want to indulge in a traditional gourmet meal from start to finish. But we felt that it was important to come up with healthier choices.” And now, with a more varied menu, those who are considering a lifestyle shift can take that step while still enjoying flavorful and succulent dishes that will more than satisfy any craving. Stretch, pose, and breathe your way to both inner and outer wellbeing. We now offer three types of yoga classes, so you can decide on which one suits you best. Or better yet, reach out and discover the benefits that each of the three has to offer! i-YOGA Fat Burning & Anti-Aging Saturdays 6:30PM - 7:30PM Fitness Studio 2, Main Gym (Amorsolo) Detox & RejuvEnation Sundays 6:30PM - 7:30PM Fitness Studio 1, Main Gym (Amorsolo) Chef Jessie’s new dishes will be on the menu starting this April, making for the perfect meal choices during the warmer summer months. weekend markets because I know I will be able to find some fresh, local produce I can use,” explains Chef Jessie. “Take our Zucchini Pasta, for example. It has yellow zucchini, and kale, which is widely known as a superfood because it’s packed with nutrients. I visit the organic farms in Pampanga and Nueva Ecija, and I’m always on the lookout for fresh, new ingredients.” New on the Menu Luckily, Chef Jessie assures us that she still uses the same cooking techniques when she whips up her healthier dishes—so there’s no need to bid adieu to her signature flavors, textures, and spices. The new menu will also be made available in batches. “All in all I want to come up with at least 20 new dishes that will include everything from appetizers to desserts, which we will introduce over the coming months,” she says. This summer, patrons can look forward to refreshing fruit and vegetable shakes, as well as a lot more salads filled with fresh fruits. “But we won’t include as many leafy greens,” Chef Jessie expounds. “They tend to wilt in the heat.” Going with what’s in season is a mindset and 14 THE ROCK POWER YOGA Instructor: Ines Celdran Garcia VINYASA YOGA Fruity Kale Salad with orange turmeric vinaigrette spells summer’s bounty. Schedule: Mondays 8:00PM - 9:00PM Mondays 5:30PM - 6:30PM Fitness Studio 1, Main Gym (Amorsolo) Wednesdays 7:00PM - 8:00PM *New Class! Starts on April 21, 2014 Sundays 4:30PM - 5:30PM Fitness Studio 2, Main Gym (Amorsolo) Fitness Studio 2, Main Gym (Amorsolo) On Guard! she lives just across the Club in the Rizal Tower, Meera can easily join her ballet classes even if she takes part in other after-school activities. Loving Ballet: Meera loves her tutus, costumes and ballet shoes—but claims she likes her teacher Jan Manlapig just as much. The Rockwell Club’s skilled ballet teachers are registered under the Australia Conservatoire of Ballet (using the Vaganova Syllabus), but Meera says she really looks forward to attending class because her teacher Jan is always warm, and makes learning much more fun. Summer Camp Champs One can easily tell Justin is a serious athlete even with one look. And when he starts to talk about fencing, your suspicions are confirmed—he is passionate about his sport! With several competitions and medals under his belt, this guy has definitely got game. The Champ: Justin Mariano, 23, aspiring pilot Destined for Fencing: As luck would have it, Justin ran out of a slot for a swimming elective during his freshman year at the Ateneo de Manila University. He took this as a At The Rockwell Club: Aside from at the ballet studios, you can also find Meera having play dates with other neighbors and fellow club members—swimming and enjoying themselves while their parents look on. Meet just some of the happy campers behind the Rockwell Club’s summer programs and workshops. Photos by JUN PINZON Interviews by Chloe Lopez-Tan SHOOT PRODUCED by LOREN EVANGELISTA Ballerina Girl Beautiful little Meera is a budding ballerina. Dancing in pointe shoes is something she would like to do one day, but at the moment, she enjoys her fairy costume while doing her plié’s. The Champ: Meera Cawrse, 7 years old, 2nd Grade Student at British School Manila Ballet Beginnings: Meera started dancing ballet when she was just 2 years old when her family still lived in Australia. Mom, Pritha, a former ballet dancer, enrolled her little girl in the Rockwell Club’s ballet classes when they moved to the Philippines. As 16 THE ROCK sign to go ahead and try fencing. Before he knew it, he was training as a member of the school’s fencing varsity team and later, in international competitions representing the country. Light Bulb Moment: It was Justin who suggested to his mom that fencing be included in the summer camp this year. As his mom started making arrangements, Justin proved himself valuable by giving his ideas and referrals. At the Rockwell Club: It’s not difficult to find Justin when you need to. Every day he can be seen working out at the Club’s gym without fail. If not, you can spot him at Rocky’s Cafe eating with his friends, and if it’s a Sunday, doing some laps at the pool. THE ROCK 17 CENTER STAGE Joseph’s talent is undeniable. Having worked with professional theater actors early on, he challenges himself to always be at his best. Last year, Joseph played the role of Cole, the lead role for 9Works Theatrical play entitled Baby Love. The Champ: Joseph Perez, 15 3rd Year Student, National High School Rising Star: Joseph started watching theatrical plays at 7 years old and has been in love with the stage ever since. When he was 11 years old—and only a newbie—he was cast in the CCP production of Noli Me Tangere directed by Audie Gemora and Ryan Cayabyab. After this, he acted in a play by Carlitos Siguion-Reyna called Walang Sugat also by CCP. STEP IT UP! Joseph the Dreamer: Asked how he envisions his future, Joseph says he would like to be professional actor. Although he is most comfortable singing Kundiman, he is aiming to do Broadway one day. In the meantime, he trains with Rockwell Club’s summer camp every year. Joseph wishes he could join the adult classes, saying ,“that would be exciting and challenging.” The Champ: Arnold Trinidad, fitness instructor for the Rockwell Club’s Wenga and Modern-Jazz-Latin classes At the Rockwell Club: You will mostly likely find Joseph at the Manansala Tower rehearsing! Trini is a brilliant choreographer. It’s no wonder celebrities like Solenn Heussaff, as well as the Rockwell Club members trust him to create their routines. And though he has his hands full with dancing, he also dabbles in event organizing and fashion directing. Talented Mr. Trini: Trini has an impressive background. He first started appearing on television dancing for Kuh Ledesma, Zsa-Zsa Padilla and Sharon Cuneta. He then became part of the Philippine production of Miss Saigon (with Lea Salonga) and toured Asia and the United Kingdom. He also became the resident choreographer and the only Filipino in the Korean cast of Miss Saigon. Let’s Dance: Wenga fitness is exclusive to Rockwell Club’s members. Conceptualized by Trini as a form of dance that incorporates different styles, this dance form is simply “something you will enjoy and groove to the sound of, no matter what age”. Wenga is so unique because every month there’s a new theme with different music, props, and movements to look forward to. At The Rockwell Club: Where else, but the dance studios! 18 THE ROCK THE ROCK 19 M E M B E R S P ROFIL E S AWriter’s Life When novelist Roy L. Santos first moved to Rockwell from the US four years ago, he knew he’d found the ideal place to live. It soon proved to be the ideal place to work as well. INTERVIEW BY TATA MAPA Photo by crissy castillo of the rockwell PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB The Rock: Did your move to Rockwell spell a change in lifestyle? Roy L. Santos: It meant I had more time to concentrate on my writing because I didn’t need to drive everywhere. Practically everything is within reach. The easy access to the gyms also meant I had little excuse not to take advantage of the spaces, hence it has contributed to a rather healthy lifestyle and a routine where exercise is an integral part. TR: Tell us a little about your book—what does it focus on and how did you come up with the idea for it? Get rid of your reading glasses with Supracor MEDICAL PERK By Audrey Trinidad Are you between 40-60 years old? Do you usually complain about difficulty reading text messages on your mobile phone or reading the newspaper? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. This is because as we age, the natural lens of the eye loses its ability to focus up close. This condition is called presbyopia and it makes it necessary to wear progressive reading glasses or contact lenses. For most people not accustomed to wearing glasses or contact lenses, it can be difficult to adjust. Reading glasses are either littered around the house, in your car and in your bag, or somehow they can never be found just when you need them. Fortunately, Asian Eye offers a quick and painless procedure that restores your ability to see at near distances. Aside from treating presbyopia, Supracor can be combined with customized Lasik to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. It can also be recommended for patients who have had other laser procedures done before but are looking for treatment to lessen or eliminate their dependence on reading glasses. Call Asian Eye today and find out if Supracor is right for you. Asian Eye Institute is located at Phinma Plaza Rockwell Center, Makati with satellite clinics in Trinoma, Quezon City and Mall of Asia, Pasay City. For further inquiries, you may call 898-2020, 09188982020 or email at [email protected] RLS: I was thinking of a story that would combine the immigrant experience with the folklore of my childhood in a contemporary setting. The result is The Acacia City Chronicle, which is available on Amazon.com as a paperback and e-book. (For now, it’s available as a special-order paperback at National Bookstore.) Acacia City is a fictional place loosely based on Daly City, a city south of San Francisco, where a large community of Filipinos resides. Fantastic things happen in Acacia City and it’s up to Filipinos (or FilAmericans) to save the day. The city itself is famous for its fog, and it plays a big role in the novel. It usually appears without warning, no matter the season. There’s a joke in the Filipino-American community about it. It’s been said that the presence of the fog is due to Filipino households turning on their rice cookers at the same time, which I think is hilarious. In fact, it formed the basis for one of the more climactic episodes in the novel. I’d been thinking of a novel involving a grandmother character who’s spunky and unorthodox, successful but with a secret from her past. The grandson with the same special traits comes later. The novel is affectionately satirical of Filipino ways, but it’s also about the search for heritage and how to pass on traditions to future generations who grow up in different countries and cultures. TR: What about your writing process? We’re curious to know how you were able to turn something many dream of into a reality. RLS: I write every day during the week on a notebook then transcribe on the weekends on my laptop. I wish I could tell you where the burst of inspiration for the book came from, but it all came down to the very ordinary act of putting pencil to paper and writing, just scribbling scenes and dialogue until I had one or two pages. Then I repeated it every day for about nine months. The initial framework of the story had been brewing in my mind for many years. It was just a matter of putting it down. It sounds simple, but it took discipline and a willingness to subject oneself to a routine, much like a job. I wrote most of it in several coffee shops and restaurants in the area, including Rocky’s. I’m easily distracted by random stuff at home, so I needed to be out in order to be productive. What also kept me going every day was the dream of writing what is essentially a tribute to my late grandmother, who inspires me to this day, and the dream of becoming a writer. I wrote for a magazine, a TV show, and several Websites in the US, but becoming a novelist was always something I secretly aspired to, though it seemed out of reach. But today’s technology allows me to publish and realize my dream. I hope it reaches a lot of people. TR: What are your plans now in terms of work, writing, and life in general? RLS: I’m working on the second book of the Acacia City Trilogy. It should be out in a few months. Long-term, I also want to make the book available in more channels and finish the trilogy by 2015. For now, you can find the first book by doing a Google or Amazon search for The Acacia City Chronicle. THE ROCK 23 The Summer Chronicles Itong, Richie, and their daughters Olivia, 7, and Luccia, 5. Quality time We sit down with these Rockwell Club members as they share what they love doing during the sunniest months of the year. | Photos by ocs alvarez (torres family & mAIKA Tanpoco) Maika Jae Rivera Tanpoco, 18, Professional International Women’s Tennis Player Former Ranked 160 in the world International Tennis Federation Junior Girls The Pro Professional tennis player Maika Tanpoco started hitting the courts when she was just two years old. She began training seriously by the age of seven, and now dedicates most of her time to her sport. Here’s her formula for a grand slam summer. “Summer means a chance to relax, unwind, and explore with family and friends. I actually travel around twice a month for tennis—often overseas. I like how my family gets to join me during the summer break. They also have more time to just meet up for dinner in the mall after my training.” “If I’m lucky to be in the Philippines, I usually go with my family to Baguio, which is my favorite place to be. Or we stay in Rockwell where I spend quiet time swimming, doing some outdoor cardio workouts, getting massages, and treating myself to nail and foot spa treatments. It’s these simple things that make me happy.” “I participate in a lot of tennis tournaments outside the country, which is great since I love to travel and meet different people. After each tennis tournament, I have the privilege of exploring each country I visit. I love discovering things about the culture and history. It helps me better understand and appreciate the country I’m visiting.” “I trained in Thailand for half a year, and had a really nice time when I took a short vacation with my family.” THE ROCK “Since the kids are on break and the sun is out, we spend a lot of time playing in the garden. Sometimes we even hang out there in the evenings, just looking at the stars. Of course there’s swimming in the club pool or in our building’s pool, and swimming class with Teacher Ria. Olivia and Luccia also take part in the different Summer Camp activities.” Diaries “China was amazing because of my close encounters with my favorite tennis stars like Serena Williams, Sabine Lisicki, and Li Na!” 24 “For us, summer means traveling as a family. It means going to the beach or getting close to nature. We love bringing our kids to museums and zoos. They also love rock climbing at ROX and taking art classes at Be Me with their cousins. When they were younger, they would hang out at Club Kiddos.” “I adore Japan because of the discipline of its people— everything is organized and I really love their food and their culture.” “When I visited Australia, I was able to have a first-hand experience with a dolphin at SeaWorld in Queensland Gold Coast. Richie’s hair by Norlie Davila of Basement Salon Maik a’s Summer Itong and Richie Torres love creating summer memories with their daughters Olivia and Luccia. They head out of town whenever possible, but also love how they don’t need to wander far to have a great time. maika’s Hair by Gigi de la Cruz of Basement Salon, Makeup by Cherrie Baawa of Basement Salon Interviews by TATA MAPA “We choose to stay in town during Holy Week since it’s quiet and peaceful— and there’s a really good retreat in the Ateneo Law School right across our building. Itong and I go to the services and last year, the kids joined the grown-ups during our Visita Iglesia to some nearby churches. Afterwards we went out to eat. The kids were so excited to be with their cousins and to have ice cream late at night!” “Some of our favorite activities include going to the beach, usually in Nasugbu, Batangas. Itong has been sailing recently, and now joins regattas. We love how beautiful and relaxing it is out there. In fact, we would love to spend an entire summer by the beach! That goal is a work in progress.” Their Summer Scrapbook Last year we went to Dedon Island in Siargao. It was a truly memorable trip for our whole family. “There’s so much to do in town during the summer. The kids take art lessons and we visit museums.” THE ROCK 25 S UMM E R C HRONI C L E S The Farley Family Album Matt, Tia, and Kalani, 9, and Mason, 4, have already embraced life in their new home. “From the rice terraces in Banaue to the beaches in Bohol, it feels like we’ve accomplished ten years worth of vacations in a very short time.” “Since our fateful trip to Siquijor, we’ve met more than 30 new cousins from all over the Philippines. We’ve now spent the past two Christmas holidays there with our family, and plan to attend their town fiesta this May. “ Loving La Vida Local Matt and Tia Farley just moved to the country the other year but they, along with kids Kalani and Mason, have already come to embrace the saying “It’s More Fun in the Philippines!” “For our family, summer means that it’s time to go on vacation! We consider ourselves lucky to live in the Philippines where domestic and international tourist opportunities are plentiful. Traveling is by far our favorite activity. And while we do take trips to other countries, we’re proud to say that in just one year of living in the Philippines, we have visited Baguio, Banaue, Corregidor, Isabela, Batangas, Anilao, Laguna, Quezon, Negros Oriental, Bohol, Cebu, Sorsogon and Siquijor.” “Each summer when relatives visit, we take them on a tour of our favorite activities: weekend fireworks along Manila Bay, the Intramuros Walking Tour, bargain shopping at Greenhills, the Ayala Museum, and of course, shopping in Power Plant Mall. We really enjoy these attractions because they offer us a great opportunity to enjoy making lasting memories as a family.” 26 THE ROCK “The Rockwell Club is also a great place to relax and rejuvenate. The kids enjoy the swimming pools and playgrounds, while the adults take advantage of the gyms and spa. Everyone enjoys the restaurants such as Chef Jessie’s, and the Power Plant Cinemas.” “Tia’s father was born and raised in Hawaii, and her mother is from California. However, her late grandfather had moved from Siquijor to Hawaii as a young man. Tia and her father never had any connections to the Philippines, but we decided to visit Siquijor in the summer of 2012 to look for ancestry records. After reviewing records at a town hall and Catholic Church, we were led to a village on the east side of the island. To our complete shock and amazement, we ended up face to face with relatives who were first cousins!” THREE TO TRY Easy breezy tips that will help you relish your vacation time. Play and Display Instead of just snapping hundreds of amazing photos on your phone or camera, go old school and make sure to print out even just a few of your favorite shots. Display them in frames, in an album, or in your wallet. Better yet, give your kids some art paper and glue, and let them create a collage filled with your summer memories. “Summer means that school is out and it’s time for us to have some fun in the sun!” Start Traditions There’s something about doing the same thing every year. Whether it’s heading to the same beach for Holy Week, going on a picnic, or even shopping for sunny weather clothes, these little traditions help us mark our progression, and help us remember—and appreciate—where we were same time last year. Do this on your own, or with your family. It can be a big to-do, like a family trip abroad, or a personal moment like relaxing by the pool with your favorite fruit shake. The important thing is that it’s something you can enjoy over and over again. Explore Your World While it’s good to build traditions and return to old favorites, don’t forget to leave some room for new experiences. Every month, make it a point to go someplace that you’ve never been. It can be a new museum, another country, or even a different restaurant. There are lots of places that are perfect for summertime visits so make hay while the sun shines! THE ROCK 27 M E M B E R S HI P P E RK S Escape An Easy Relax and unwind in a peaceful hideaway that’s just a drive away from home. By Ria Tinio Nature’s Haven Nestled amongst lush rainforests, the azure waters of Nabasan Bay, and majestic sloping mountains, the resort offers one sweeping views, the chance to fill one’s lungs with crisp, fresh air, and a tranquil refuge where one can enjoy the gentle sea world’s away from the hustle and bustle of the frantic city. And whether you choose to enjoy your stay in a well-appointed suite, or a private casita perched right atop the water, you’re sure to sense the quiet embrace of Mother Nature. Vacay Your Way The airy feel of Kamana’s fresh, inviting spaces sets the stage for the getaway you need. Soak up some sun, take a dip in the sea, or try your hand at a water sport. Relish delicious dishes passionately prepared by their executive chef, and sip and savor your favorite cocktail over a glorious sunset. Indulge in a pampering session at the spa and drift off as all your cares are lifted away, or secure a private spot and chill as you will in a place that takes the art of the mini break to the next level. Rest assured, you’ll find yourself leaving relaxed and rejuvenated, no matter how you choose to spend your time away. Home will always be where the heart is. But there will also be those times when we simply long to get away from it all. So why not strive to have the best of both worlds? Rockwell Club members will be happy to discover that the Hotel Kamana Sanctuary Resort and Spa, which is conveniently located in the Subic Freeport Zone, is fully equipped with every modern luxury, making it the perfect fit for city folk who can’t stray far from their creature comforts. 28 THE ROCK Hotel Kamana Sanctuary Resort & Spa is one of our vacation perks partners. Rockwell Club members may enjoy as much as 30% discount on room rates. For bookings, please contact Membership services at 897-8310 loc. 7444 or 0917-8071739 or email [email protected] THE ROCK 29 Photoscapes ROCKWELL PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB MEMBERS share their favorite snapshots from around the world Igorot of Benguet by Alex FIguracion Halong Bay, Vietnam by George Apalisok Eiffel Dream Come True, Paris by Howard Felipe Hotel Lobby Marina Bay Sands by Crissy Castillo I See You Along Mekong River by Bong Casis Hidden Treasure by Mark Marcelino New York Skyline by Boy Granados Mayon Volcano, Bicol by Howard Felipe 30 THE ROCK THE ROCK 00