Shouldering the share of cost

WHEN it comes to Medi-Cal , one of the concepts that our office gets the most questions about is something called Share of Cost.  Share of Cost seems simple: it functions like an insurance deductible, the amount that a Medi-Cal beneficiary must pay to healthcare providers before receiving benefits from the state.  Although it sounds…

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Wi Spa: An urban sanctuary in the heart of LA

THINK of a spa and the immediate perception is an air of pretense and privilege that only a select few can indulge in, given the exorbitant prices. However, if you live in Los Angeles, Korean spas have sprouted up, contributing to the idea that pampering oneself and affordability are not mutually exclusive. Though the options…

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Hmart opens newest branch in Torrance

While Hmart has made a name for themselves as America’s number one Asian supermarket chain, the South Bay region of Los Angeles county welcomed Hmart to Torrance for the first time on Wednesday, June 22 in Torrance, California. Shoppers packed the aisles at the grand opening, both inquisitive, yet excited to experience what the supermarket…

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Monet Salon moves to a new location

Monet Salon is excited to announce its new location at 20113 Vanowen St. Canoga Park, CA (across Canoga Bowling). Spreading its hair care and makeover expertise, Monet Salon is thrilled to add another beauty haven for the San Fernando Valley locals. As it celebrates 30 years of making beautiful beginnings, they are proud to offer updated hairstyles…

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A gathering of courage and determination

The Southern California Filipino Dental Society (SCFDC) is a world unto itself. As the energy level started going up and up, the dentists moved, talked, laughed and think — and the brain power within the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library patio/garden became formidable, cell phones ringing as the sun went down dramatically into the evening.  This…

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A little knowledge can be dangerous

DESPITE having only limited knowledge or understanding of immigration laws, some people attempt to strategize and handle their immigration case on their own. They follow the advice of friends or relatives or listen to gossip or rumors they hear on the streets or at parties. Partial or incomplete information about immigration law and benefits can…

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Crimes that may affect your citizenship application

WHEN a legal permanent resident files for citizenship, one of the questions being asked of the applicant is whether the applicant has ever been convicted or charged with a crime.  Depending on the nature of the crime committed, a criminal conviction may result in a permanent bar to an applicant for citizenship. If an applicant…

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Glutathione update

THE glutathione craze seems to have spread to various countries, including the Philippines, inspired mostly by women’s desire for a fairer complexion and people’s quest for the fountain of health and youth. Knowing that any substance or drug we use, including “simple” aspirin, is associated with possible adverse side-effects, the concern about the safety of…

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Dodger's Night

FILIPINO HERITAGE NIGHT. The Los Angeles Dodgers held its seventh annual Filipino Heritage Night on Friday, June 17 at Dodger Stadium. Apl.de.ap of the Black Eyed Peas threw the ceremonial first pitch, while Broadway star Joan Almedilla sang the national anthem.  U.S. Navy Petty Officer Second Class Keith Guiang was honored as a Military Hero of the Game. Dodger Stadium also offered a Filipino Night t-shirt and a special Pinoy Dog — a quarter-pound all-beef hot dog with diced Spam, pineapple, onions and chicharrones. The Dodgers went up against the Milwaukee Brewers, winning 3-2.  Photos by Andy Tecson

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Tax consequences of debt discharge

DURING and after the recession, many borrowers who were financially distressed lost their homes and had their loans cancelled. It was a relief to have their debts reduced or forgiven, but the same debt relief also triggered tax consequences that they were not aware of. Some homeowners were in disbelief when they learn that they…

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Shootout

THERE has seemingly been a string of criminal incidents where police officers have instantly shot suspected drug peddlers and pushers upon encounter. Is change really coming to address criminality and the growing illegal drug trade in the Philippines? Or is this a ploy to clean up their ranks? It is unpleasant to see officers you…

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Jessica Sanchez makes waves for Clinton campaign

Jessica Sanchez’s latest single “Stronger Together” was a hit at this year’s Democratic National Convention, so much so that the song has become the unofficial anthem of Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton’s campaign. Legendary songwriters Carole Bayer Sager, Bruce Roberts and Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds wrote the song and asked the half-Filipina, half-Mexican popstar to record…

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The right protection for women

At the level of daily life, we learn by experience, how to protect ourselves by learning many strategies. Perla Santos, the mother of MOTHER, or the Movement to Help End Rape and Other Child Abuses, inimitably took the center stage  and received the support and partnership of arnis aficionado Master Allan Fami, founder of Kalahi…

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Book On Paranaque City To Be Launched At Solaire On June 28

On 28 June 2016 at the Grand Ballroom of the Solaire Resort and Casino along Aseana Avenue, Parañaque City with incoming Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III as guest of honor and speaker. This was announced by Paranaque City Mayor Edwin L. Olivarez who describes the landmark book published by Media Touchstone Ventures, Inc. as “a fitting celebration of our rich…

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Prayer as an act of surrender

“THUS says the Lord: I will pour out on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and petition…”  Zechariah 12:10 Have you ever prayed hard to God, asking him to listen to your petition? Have you asked people to pray for you? I’m sure that you made these…

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Travel Diaries : Exploring Taipei

Traveling on an air- line you haven’t been on before is an adventure in itself. During an overseas flight that spans more than 10 hours, you desire that level of comfort where you can extend your limbs and catch some sleep. in the hours you find yourself awake staring at the in-flight map and wondering ‘are…

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Do you need to be living in separate residences to be considered ‘Separated’ from your Spouse under the California family law?

FAMILY Code 760 provides that all property acquired by the spouse during the marriage is community property.  That means each spouse has a half interest on any assets that are acquired during the marriage, with certain exceptions, since it is generally characterized as community property. On the same token, Family Code 771(a) provides that earnings…

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10 tips on dependents and exemptions

• YOU may claim exemptions for yourself, your spouse and your dependents. • Dependents must have a Social Security number (TIN is not good enough). • Exemption amount is $4,000 for 2015 for each exemption. • Exemptions reduce your taxable income and your income tax. • It could also produce credits such as child care…

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Is bankruptcy my only option to get out of debt?

ARE you being harassed by your creditors day and night due to unpaid bills? If you are, you know that this is a pretty unpleasant experience. You may feel scared, angry or embarrassed about your situation. The prospect of debt relief through bankruptcy may sound appealing to you but you are not quite sure if…

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