SULADS’ Outreach Activities

During the 50th Anniversary Reunion

Editor’s Thoughts: ............................ SULADS’ Reports ............................... Ardys Joy Caballero-Gadia

Featured Items: Medical-Dental Outreach at Sto. Domingo ....................................................................... The Editor SULADS Orphanage ............................................................................................................ The Editor SULADS’ Corner: ............................ The Bible Is A Sword ........... Sulads Jammar & Barbette Almonte SULADS’ Corner: ................. The Unexpected & Unseen Visitor ....... Sulad Darlene Gersava Sabandal Patch of Weeds: .................................... Weddings ...................................................... Jesse Colegado LIFE of a Missionary: ....................................................................................................... Romy Halasan HilltopFlashes: ........................................................................................................ HilltopFlashes Staff

CLOSING: Announcements |From The Mail Bag| Prayer Requests | Acknowledgements

Meet The Editors |Closing Thoughts | Miscellaneous

Photo used for today’s banner: This scenery of rolling hills and forests is the lush backyard of the Sulads Comprehensive High School for the Lumads (SCHSL), the peaceful serenity captured on camera by one of my favorite photographers Sulad Larve Limbagan on Thursday June 29, 2018, during the SULADS 50th Anniversary Reunion. The trip up the mountain included having to cross rivers, enjoying vibrantly colored flowers, and a lot of reminiscing about the good ole’ days when the returning sulads were younger.

Editor’s Thoughts: “SULADS’ Reports” By Ardys Joy Caballero-Gadia

efore the SULADS 50th Anniversary Reunio began, CyberFlashes was already being flooded with requests for reports of the reunion to be featured in the newsletter. MVC alumni members who could not attend asked if CyberFlashes was going to send a team over to

MVC to cover the event. They wanted to know if there would be live streaming of the events and if they could expect a strong presence in social media during the event. During the reunion, MVC alumni members (many of them non-sulads) would approach me saying I should feature this activity or that activity in CyberFlashes because others need to know. People I had never heard of before left written messages for me at the guest house saying how much fun that day’s activities were, how meaningful it was to them, and to let them know if I needed photos or additional input for CyberFlashes! I was stunned and touched. I have been back in the States for a month now. The requests for reports continue to pour in. Questions about certain mission schools are being asked. Does this mission school still exist? Did you meet anyone from there? Questions have been asked about how many mission schools do the SULADS support now and where they are located at. Inquiries were made if I had met Sulad so and so, or Datu so and so. The yearning I hear in the voices and emails of these MVC alumni members have struck a chord in my heart. On the last issue of CF, we included stories about the sulads’ arrival activities at the reunion. We shared stories from the SULADS USA teens’ view points: the many new experiences they enjoyed. We also shared photos of the SULADS Parade. However, we were mindful not to include too many reports as as not to overwhelm. Sulads have long since learned the deep joys of serving. They learned that a life of significance is about serving those who need your gifts, your leadership, your purpose. It’s about our relationships with each other and with our God. So it was of no surprise that the SULADS’ reunion incorporated many outreach activities within their one week together. Today, we will hear about some of these. It is our hope that you will be blessed and be inspired by these reports.

Ardys Joy Caballero-Gadia

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Medical-Dental Outreach at Sto. Domingo By Ardys Joy Caballero-Gadia

unday, June 24, 2018, as the bright tropical sun chased the early morning fog away from the dew drenched grass, sulads rushed from the Florence Kern Auditorium where early morning worship was held. They quickly went to the cafeteria for breakfast before

leaving for Santo Domingo in Quezon, Bukidnon, where the group was going to provide a Medical-Dental outreach endeavor, or as the locals call it “free clinic”. SULADS Canada under the leadership of their Sulad President Ephraim Baragona and their two Directors of Community Health Sheila Diesto Palapar and Alta Bofetiado Ramada, took a quick inventory of the suitcases full of dental hygiene products and “Girls’ Pack1” before urging the group to quickly head for the cafeteria and breakfast. To maximize the impact of their team, SULADS Canada was going to split up for their outreach activity. Sulad Shiela and her husband Sulad Jeffrey Palapar (Equipment & Facilities Manager for SULADS Canada) were going to go with the group to Sto. Domingo and participate in the Medical-Dental outreach. In the morning, Sulad Ephraim was going to the SULADS School for the Deaf and in the afternoon he was going to go to the SULADS Orphanage. While Sulad Alta was going to go later to the SULADS High School with her husband Limwel Ramada (Vice President for SULADS Canada) and Sulad Lito Fronda (Public Relations Officer for SULADS Canada)

As soon as breakfast was over, the Sto. Domingo bound group headed for The Flagpole, a common meeting place at MVC. Boxes of medications, supplies, intruments, food stuff and sacks full of colorful rubber flip flops (slippers) were carefully loaded into the SULADS Blue Jeep. I honestly do not know how all that fit into the Blue Jeep, I expected to see two more vehicles pulling up to The Flagpole to help carry all the load. But for some reason, everything fit! Soon enough, the group heading for Sto. Domingo left MVC campus. On board the SULADS Blue Jeep were nurses from SULADS USA, SULADS CANADA and SULADS Philippines. On the road, they were joined by doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists and other healthcare professionals who volunteered to participate in the endeavor..

1 “Girls Pack” is a packaged set of beautifully handcrafted washable sanitary pads and supplies that a group of mission-oriented women in Canada had worked on together for months to sew. By the end of the reunion the packs were distributed to more than 200 native women who also received health education from the sulad nurses.

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Top photo: Posing in front of the MVC Admin building before the group’s departure are long-time friends (L-R): Mike Halasan (the original sulad in our group of friends), Milady Dolar Sowa (SULADS USA), Shielah Diesto Palapar and Jeffrey Palapar (SULADS Canada), Lily Bell Cayamanda Durias (USA), Joy Caballero-Gadia (SULADS USA) & Lylibeth Palma Halasan. The Halasans coordinated the activity from the Philippines. Bottom photo: Stopping at the Adventist Medical Center Valencia to pick up the nurses, doctors, dentists, and other healthcare team members who graciously volunteered to participate in the Medical-Dental outreach endeavor.

Top photo: Some of the sulads and members of the healthcare team travel to Sto. Domingo on board the trusty SULADS Blue Jeep with their supplies and medicines. It was more off-roading than anything. For a more dramatic look on the Blue Jeep crosing this river, see the video posted in the Facebook Group site called Mountain View College. [Photo credit: Sulads Larve Limbagan] Bottom photo: Mike Halasan (left) is perched outside the SULADS Blue Jeep as it climbs up the steep path up the mountain pass. Inside the jeep are the brightly smiling sulads from various parts of the world, gathered together for the SULADS 50th Anniversary Reunion and this outreach endeavor. (Right) Sulads Myrna Alvarico, Ricky Serato and Bebing Sugdan chuckle at stories recounted. [Photo credit: Sulad Larve Limbagan and Sulad Darlene Gersava Sabandal]

Top photo: Sulads provide instructions to the excited group who were eager to receive slippers. Careful attention is given to make sure recipients receive the best fitting pair of rubber flip flops (known as slippers in the Philippines).

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Hat day, the group of sulads and healthcare providers who went to Sto. Domingo performed tooth extraction, treated wounds and sores, treated minor illnesses like upper respiratory infection, bladder infection. They gave away medications, dental hygiene

supplies, Girls’ Packs. They spoke with patients; listened to their concerns; provided health education, advice or referrals as needed. They prayed with patients and offered spiritual care. A simple hot meal was provided, the locals call it “feeding.” And more close to 500 rubber slippers were given out to the community of Sto. Domingo and the students of the mission school there. A big THANK YOU to the MVC alumni members who made this mission trip a success:

• To those who funded the medications, supplies, rubber flip flops (slippers), food stuff: The Prajes Family (Sulads Alger & Alma Jean with Baby Hannah), Ocelle Rabino, Marvin & Novie Literatus, and Jeffery & Sheilah Palapar. THANK YOU! Because of your sacrificial giving, about 500 indigenous people received free healthcare that day when they would otherwise have no access to care! They also received spiritual care (prayers, advise, encouragement) a compassionate listening ear, health education and a hot meal.

• To SULADS Canada and the group of Canadian women who worked together for months to sew and create the innovative “Girls Pack” which was distributed to more than 200 indigeous women during the reunion.

• To Ephraim Baragona and the Canadian dental team who sent dental hygiene kits.

• To the doctors, dentists, nurses and staff of Adventist Medical Center Valencia who donated their time and effort.

• And to Mike & Lylibeth Halasan and the Sulads Office for coordinating the event!

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“say Ahh” a doc doing a routine health screen

Dr. Elvin Mandalupa extracting a tooth

Registration table

Nurses ready to dispense meds

A doc explaining a disease process

Dr. Pep Caballero praying for a patient

Happy sulads pause to take a picture during the mission trip to Sto. Domingo. Especially glad are the nurese from SULADS USA and SULADS Canada who show off empty sacks that previously filled slippers, now distributed to more than 500 villagers (indigenous people)

Mountains of Quezon, Bukidnon, enroute to Sto. Domingo. Photo credit: Sulad Larve Limbagan

SULADS Orphanage By Ardys Joy Caballero-Gadia

ULADS Orphanage was the destination recommended for the junior teens of SULADS USA. I was startled; I knew much prayers were being sent Heavenward asking God to provide an orphanage for the Mangyan tribe in Mindoro but I did not realize there was

an existing SULADS Orphanage anywhere! And this orphanage is located inside MVC campus no less, right next door to the SULADS office. I certainly was intrigued. I was told we had a total of 7 orphans this year. The orphans came from the various tribes where SULADS is currently service, their cases so heart wrenching with nobody else there to take care of them. So the sulads had no choice but to take them in and care for them. [SULADS with all caps refers to the organization. Sulads with mixed letters refers to individuals serving as sulad missionaries.] Our junior sulads were not sure what to expect as they walked up to the orphanage, also called Heartland Home. They had earlier strategized how to handle the visit. They had many questions and were only planning on staying for two hours. So, they divided the questions amongst each other. Each junior sulad would dig deeper to find answers to their questions and when we returned to the Guest House, everyone will share their findings. I was impressed with the questions the young people had. Examples: What happened to their parents; how did they become orphans? How is the orphanage funded? Who pays for their education; and are they even in school? What do the orphans eat; what is their source of support? Do they have birthday parties; how do they celebrate their birthdays if they have no parents? What do they do for fun? Do they have toys? What happens to them after their 18th birthday? The orphans and their matron Paciencia “Mommy Paz” Arceo greeted us as we arrived. The orphans were polite and quiet; they eyed our junior sulads cautiously. Our junior sulads did the same initially before they decided to break the ice and get to know the orphans individually. We quickly found out that the orphans were not a shy group. They spoke flawless English, enjoyed the same interests as our junior sulads, and were exactly the same exact age as them! They had an infectious sense of humor, were very articulate, and were bursting with excitement. Very quickly, both groups bonded. They were no longer two separate groups. Instead, there were clusters here and there of kids by age group. I stood back and watched, amused. They would break into song with impromptu choreography before bursting out in laughter. They seemed to know the same songs and had the same ideas on how the make the songs more fun. They would interrupt each other as they excitedly talked about topics they were passionate about. They had

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Top: The ladies of Heartland Home and the junior sulads of SULADS USA listen as their peers talk & sing. Bottom: the orphans and the junior sulads take turns sharing their talents

a very wide range of topics which they delved into in rapid succession like popcorn popping in a pan! The energy was at near-combustion: so much excitement, jumping, laughing, happy screams and hugs. It was beautiful to see both groups meld into one. The orphans sang beautifully; our junior sulads applauded enthusiastically like the fans they were. The junior sulads shared their stories about what life is like in Navajo land, what some of the needs are and how they responded to the need. They shared that although they are only between the age of 10-17, they are currently the front line sulads in the United States reporting for “work” in Navajo land when school is out for the summer and Christmas break. All the sulads in the US are volunteers; no stipends are allotted. They leave their parents, family, friends and most of their gadgets at home. Navajo land is 10-12 hours’ drive away from home, two states away. Later, this distance was equated to having to drive from MVC to Ozamiz, one way. The junior sulads emphasized that age and life’s circumstances is not a deterrent when a person is willing to trust God and serve as a sulad. They also shared stories of the challenges they met while serving in Navajo land, some of the funny incidents and some of the heartache. The orphans listened with tears in their eyes and laughed when funny stories were included. Instead of spending two hours at the SULADS Orphanage, we ended up spending the rest of the afternoon. The junior sulads explained the Girls Packs which was brought along by Sulads Canada President Ephraim Baragona. The group planned follow-up activities together and synchronized their schedules.

(Left) SULADS Canada president Ephraim Baragona is surprised. (Right) 17 year old SULADS USA Junior Sulad leader Aiva Gallardo prepares to explain the “Girl Packs” from Canada while future Navajo chief Allen Fowler helps by unpacking the Packs

At the end of our visit, we recapped what we had learned about the SULADS’ Heartland Home.

1. What happened to their parents? The orphans’ parents had died of varying reasons. They have no other family. Some of the orphans do not even know which tribe they belong to.

2. Who funds the orphanage? The orphanage currently has no funding. They previously had a sponsor who sent them money for food, but that elderly lady had passed away. Now, the orphans enjoy “see food diet” from root crops, herbs, and mushrooms that they “see” (find) in the wild. They hunt early each morning. Each orphan has also started a vegetable garden.

3. What do they eat? The evening meal in the orphanage often consists of porridge (rice with

a lot of water and a bit of salt). Because they have no expected source for rice or money, this is their method of trying to make their food supply last longer.

4. Who pays for school? We did not learn who pays for the orphans’ education, but the kids

walk to MVC Academy each day where they get their education. Because the SULADS campus is a bit far from the Academy, the orphans pack lunch with them each day.

5. Birthdays? Yes, birthdays are celebrated in the orphanage. Often root crops and banana is

what is served but they don’t mind as long as they are all together.

6. What do they do for fun? Play? There really is not much time for play. The orphans get up before 4AM to do their chores before going to school. This includes hunting for food (especially mushrooms after the rain) working in the garden, cleaning their house and preparing their meals. They are expected to have done their homework and be prepared for class.

7. What happens to them after their 18th birthday? They leave the orphanage and be on

their own. They have a choice of continuing their education as working students or going back to whichever village they choose and starting a family.

8. No boys? The orphans in the orphanage are all females. There were male orphans at one

time but they were distributed back among the villages because of the lack of facilities at MVC to care for them.

9. Toiletries, clothes, shoes, school supplies? Like with food, there is no funding. Sometimes

they are lucky when classmates, friends or teachers give them something. Otherwise, they have nothing.

10. The matron or home dean of the Heartland Home in Mountain View College is actually a midwife who previously supervised nurses and midwives when she was employed in the Middle East. She is currently taking time off and serving as a volunteer at the SULADS Orphanage.

SULADS’ Corner: “The Bible Is A Sword” Jammar & Barbette Almonte, Teachers. SULADS School for the Deaf

fter one year of experiencing the most difficult and dangerous situations, and yet enjoying my life in Dapiloan Mission School, God gave our family the opportunity to serve at the SULADS School for the Deaf. At first, we found it difficult to learn sign language but we

had to learn it to communicate with the deaf students. The school year had not yet started, but we came early so that we could start a garden. Some of the deaf students arrived too but the other teachers had not yet come. One night, in the middle of the night, two deaf girls came rushing to our house frightened to death. They said, “There is a ghost in our room!” They claimed it came into their room and that they saw it. They all moved to our quarters and slept with us as they were so afraid. My husband and one of the deaf boys hurried to the Girl’s Dormitory to see if anyone was there. They found no one. Meanwhile, I went to the girls and helped them settle down as they were so frightened. I told them to pray for the girls who saw the “ghost.” They prayed. After they had prayed, I was the one who prayed last. Because I did not know how to sign yet, they did not understand my verbal prayers but I was confident that God heard and understood my prayer.

I prayed that the demons would leave our School and that by God’s power, the girls would be able to sleep in their dorm rooms again without fear. Each night, I instructed them to open their Bibles and read Psalm 91 especially the part that promised God’s protection from terror by night and from evil beings. The Bible is our only armor to shield us and to help give us stronger faith in God. It’s a sword which is the Spirit and the Word of God. I told them not to be afraid and they felt better. The next morning, one of the students said to me, “Ma’am, there’s no more ghost. We opened our Bibles always during the night to praise the Lord.” I praise the Lord that they understood that the Bible is real and it can truly protect and comfort them. © SULADS International, Inc.

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“The Unexpected and Unseen Visitor” Sulad Darlene Gersava Sabandal

ne morning I woke up early to cook our breakfast, but when I opened our rice container it was empty. I called my fellow sulad and told her that we had no more rice. We decided to cancel our class that day. When our students arrived for class, we invited them to

accompany us as we hunted for sweet potatoes in the mountain side. At the end of the day, we returned to our cottage, tired and hungry for we hadn’t found much sweet potatoes. That night, we slept with empty stomachs. In the middle of the night, I heard a voice calling my name, “Maám Bebing. Maám Bebing. Open the door.” I did not recognize the voice. I lay there terrified knowing that there were many bad people in that place. I turned to my fellow sulad and saw that she was fast asleep. Again, the man called my name asking me to open the door. Still terrified, I prayed, “Lord, if that person outside is a bad man please drive him away.” But the man kept on calling so I changed my prayer. “Lord, I will open the door. If this person has a bad intention for us, please protect us. I will lay my life before You.”

I opened the door slowly. I saw a man standing outside the door but it was too dark to see his face. I asked who he was and he replied, “Take the food first. My hands are shaking from holding this bowl and platter too long. Take the food. You and your fellow sulad need to eat.” I now recognized him as one of the villagers. He had brought us a bowl of chicken tinola soup and a platter of freshly cooked dinorado rice. Both the rice and the soup smelled so good but I was more curious about why he was bringing us food and at the middle of the night, no less. “How come you brought us food in the middle of the night?” I asked hime

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He replied, “I was already sleeping when I was awakened by a Voice that said, “Cook some food and take it to the missionaries because they have no food. They have not eaten the whole day.” So I woke up, got the chicken that was kept under our house, butchered it and cooked it. I cooked some rice. And here they are.” The man continued, “Call your fellow sulad now and eat. I will just return tomorrow morning.” I woke my fellow sulad up and we ate together. We finished the whole platter full of dinorado rice and the big bowl of chicken tinola. Tears flowed down our face as we ate because we felt God’s love so keenly at that moment. He loved us so much that He wouldn’t allow us to go hungry for too long. He provided as He promised He would. When morning came, we still had no rice but for some reason we had a lot of sweet potatoes! Three days later early in the morning, a group of Datus came to our cottage. Some came up to our door while some went around our cottage, silently looking here and there as if looking for something. I asked them, “Datu, what are you looking for?”

“We saw a man last night, about 3:00 in the morning carrying a big sack and entered your cottage. Who was that man? Why did he enter your house that early? What was that big sack he was carrying?”

“I don't know,” I replied. “We don’t know of any man coming to our cottage.” “We don’t know of any man coming to our cottage last night,” confirmed my fellow sulad her face looking as puzzled as mine. “Perhaps you are referring to Kuya Dondoy? He came the other night and brought us food” she offered. “No, that certainly was not Dondoy,” replied the Datus. “We know Dondoy. That man was much bigger than Dondoy. It happened last night. He came from the opposite direction from Dondoy’s house.” Suddenly I realized that they had seen an angel. We explained to the Datus that what they saw was an angel because God knew that we had no food, so He sent us an angel to bring us a sack of food. Since that day until our year of service was completed, our rice bin never went empty. God always provided for all our needs as He promised. © SULADS International, Inc.

If you would like to support this mission program dedicated to taking the Gospel to the people of Mindanao, please write a check to Gospel Outreach. Mark it for the SULADS and send it to: Gospel Outreach P.O. Box 8 College Place, WA 99324 You may also donate to the SULADS using your credit card by logging on to Gospel Outreach's donation site (http://www.goaim.org/) and follow the directions. Again, mark it for SULADS. If you would prefer, you may write your check to the General Conference of SDA and mark the donation for SULADS and send it to: General Conference of SDA Donations 12501 Old Columbia Pike Silver Spring, MD 20904 Thank you for your support of this very important project. If you do not want to receive any more newsletters, Unsubscribe To update your preferences and to unsubscribe visit this link Forward a Message to Someone this

Wedding Ring

Soon after marriage, a lady's husband stopped wearing his wedding ring. She asked, "Why don't you ever wear your wedding band?" He replied, "It cuts off my circulation." She answered back, "It's supposed to!" (from Big Mac Clean Joke Attack)

Wedding

My grandson Davy, age 5, was asked to be the ring bearer at my niece's wedding. But he just plain wasn't interested. We coaxed, "You get to wear a tux." Again, no -- he wasn't interested. "But, you get to walk a cute little blonde girl down the aisle." Again, no. "Why?" we asked. His response: "’Cause I don't want to get married. Can't I just stay with you, mommy?" (by Dianne Stark via Laugh & Lift)

Wedding Speech

Our nephew was getting married to a doctor's daughter. At the wedding reception, the father of the bride stood to read his toast, which he had scribbled on a piece of scrap paper. Several times during his speech, he halted, overcome with what I assumed was a moment of deep emotion. But after a particularly long pause, he explained, "I'm sorry. I can't seem to make out what I've written down." Looking out into the audience, he asked, "Is there a pharmacist in the house?" (from Cybersalt Digest)

BRIDEZILLA By Rachel Olsen

"The king is enthralled by your beauty; honor him, for he is your lord." Psalm 45:11. Having been a flower girl, a bridesmaid, and a bride, I know weddings can be stressful. No other day in a gal's life is more romanticized in her mind than her wedding day. That is, until her wedding day arrives and the cake looks lopsided, a ring gets lost, a family member steps on the hem of her gown, and the soloist hits a sour note. For my wedding reception we rented a grand piano and hired an accomplished Christian pianist. The piano arrived but the musician never did. How would I have a father-daughter dance without music? I'd have to skip the tradition of the bride-and-groom's first dance too. Though some disappointment lingered, we piped in hotel music over the ballroom speakers and made the best of things. Imagine my horror when I later learned the pianist had died the week before my wedding. You may have seen the television show Bridezillas. This reality series takes viewers inside the wedding preparations of brides-to-be who are determined to have the perfect wedding -- no matter how many tantrums they must throw with their families, friends, and future husband to achieve that dream. I've watched a little of the show, gawking at how self-centered, rude, and controlling these brides behave. They take the notion "a wedding is the bride's special day" and run marathon distances with it! A bridezilla can wear a gorgeous gown in a grand cathedral, receive a large, sparkly diamond ring, toss an exquisite bouquet of flowers, and still be an unbecoming bride because her attitude is demanding and self-focused. The Gospel of John says the church is to be the bride of Christ collectively, and that we are each His bride individually. I wonder, does Christ look at my life and see a bridezilla?

Am I self-centered? Am I rude or demanding of my family or friends? Am I trying to control every aspect of my life to make it flatter me or conform to my view of perfect? Yes, at times, I act just like a bridezilla. If anyone deserves to garner everyone's attention, it is Christ. If anyone is in a position to demand perfection, it is Christ. But He doesn't demand; instead, He serves. Every battle Christ has fought, every pain He has endured, every enemy He has laid low, every obstacle He has overcome, and every ounce of mercy He has offered has been in service of you -- His bride. "He rides in majesty on behalf of truth, humility, and righteousness" (Psalm 45:4). He's defeated Satan and death, and He is blessed by God forever. Who really cares about wilted flowers, a wrinkled veil, or a missing-in-action musician when they're marrying someone like that? He should be our focus, and our desire should be to honor Him. Realize that today is a gift -- a wedding gift from our amazing Bridegroom who is enthralled with us. Let's see how far we can run with that notion and honor Him today. Dear Lord, I am grateful You have chosen me to be Your bride! You are so praiseworthy -- I want to honor You today. Please show me how. In Jesus' name. Amen. Application Steps: Read Psalm 45. It tells an allegorical story of King Jesus and us, His bride. (as seen in God's Purpose For Every Woman)

Three Important Words

At my granddaughter's wedding reception, the DJ polled the guests to see who had been married longest. It turned out to be my husband and me. The DJ asked us, "What advice would you give to the newly married couple?" I said, "The three most important words in a marriage are, 'You're probably right.'" Everyone then looked at my husband. He said, "She's probably right." (from GCFL)

40th Wedding Anniversary

A married couple, in their early 60s, was celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary at a quiet, romantic little restaurant. Suddenly, a tiny beautiful Fairy appeared on their table. She said, "For being such an exemplary married couple and especially for being so thoughtful and loving to each other for all this time, I will grant you each a wish." "Oh," said the wife, "I want to travel around the world with my darling husband." The fairy waved her magic wand and -- poof! -- two tickets for the Queen Mary II luxury liner and Ten Thousand Dollars appeared in her hands. Then it was the husband's turn. He thought for a minute and said, "Well, this is all very romantic, but an opportunity like this will never come again. So I'm going with my mind and not my heart. I'm sorry, my love, but my wish is to have a wife 30 years younger than me." The wife and the Fairy were shocked and disappointed. But a wish is a wish. So, the Fairy waved her magic wand, and -- poof! -- the husband became 92 years old. The moral of the story: Men who are ungrateful husbands should remember: Fairies are female. (from WestiMom)

Honeymoon Toast

One of my daughter's wedding presents was a toaster oven. Soon after the honeymoon, she and her husband tried it out. Almost immediately, smoke billowed out of the toaster. "Get the owner's manual!" my daughter's husband shouted. "I can't find it anywhere!" cried my daughter a short time later. "Oops!" came a voice from the kitchen. "Well, the toast is fine, but the owner's manual's burned to a crisp." (from Pastor Tim)

Wedding Car

After our friends were married, they left the church and were disappointed to see that their car looked completely normal. No one had decorated it with "Just Married" signs or tin cans or balloons or anything at all. "Disappointed" was not, however, the word used by the priest who married them. His car was very similar in make, model, and color as the groom's vehicle. (from Doc's Daily Chuckle)

Practical Marriage

A pastor was called to a local nursing home to perform a wedding. An anxious old man met him at the door. The pastor sat down to counsel him. The pastor asked several questions. "Do you love her?" The old man replied, "I guess." "Is she a good Christian woman?" "I don't know for sure," the old man answered. "Does she have lots of money?" asked the pastor. "I doubt it." "Then why are you marrying her?" the preacher asked. "She is allowed to drive at night," the old man said. (from PearlyGates)

Bridal Registry

My sister, went to the department store to check out the bridal registry of our niece whose wedding was coming up soon. When my sister returned from the store, she tossed the gift list on a table and declared, "I think she's too young to get married." "Why do you say that?" I asked. "Because," she said, "they registered for Wii games."

Reality TV

I realized that my five-year-old grandson had been watching too many reality TV shows the day we attended a relative's wedding. As the four bridesmaids walked down the aisle toward the front of the church, he turned to me and asked, "Is this where the groom decides which one he wants to marry?" (from GCFL)

Surprise Verse

A groom wanted to surprise his bride on their wedding day so he arranged with the bakery to have a Bible verse inscribed on the cake. He chose 1 John 4:18, which reads: "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love." But the baker, not being familiar with the Bible, got the verse wrong and on the day of his wedding the groom was surprised to find the cake inscribed with John 4:18, which reads: "The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true." (from Mikey's Funnies)

Tarot Cards

A woman visited a psychic of some local repute. In a dark and gloomy room, gazing at the Tarot cards laid out before her, the Tarot reader delivered the bad news: "There is no easy way to say this so I'll just be blunt: Prepare yourself to be a widow. Your husband will die a violent death this year." Visibly shaken, the woman stared at the psychic's lined face, then at the single flickering candle, then down at her hands. She took a few deep breaths to compose herself. She simply had to know. She met the Tarot reader's gaze, steadied her voice and asked, "Will I get away with it?" (from GCFL)

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None this week

Espenido Speaks at Vespers Program July 22, 2018 | Jesnel Kharl B. Apugan

espers program on the evening of Friday, July 13, 2018, at the MVC Alumni Church, was no ordinary service. Coordinated by the Guidance Office of the college, the worship began melodiously with various musical renditions by musical groups and choirs here at

MVC. The Mountain View College Academy, directed by Jordan Bapts Tabenas, played their angklungs accompanied by other instruments. Various instruments were played that evening - from angklungs, violings, to bells and saxophones. There were solo, duet, and group renditions by both students and faculty members. The Hilltop Chamber Orchestra, directed by Jay Ligsay, then played their choir of instruments to end the mini concert. Then came the main part. With the church filled with students, faculty, and visitors, the college president, Dr. Gladden O. Flores, introduced the much-awaited Police/Chief Inspector Jovie R. Espenido, one of the country’s most renowned figures in the war against drugs. His message was certainly one many anticipated. Espenido began his message with the importance of living a principled life. He reminded the parents, in particular, who are the first influencers of society, to be deeply rooted in right principles so as to influence and teach their children those same principles. “Walk the talk,” “live what you say,” he further added. And to the students, he encouraged them to adapt a principled life. As the audience was predominantly student attendees, Espenido had much warnings, reminders, and exhortations for them to seriously consider as students and as young adults of this generation. Firstly, he warned against curiosity and what he calls “testing.” He says that experimenting or “testing” in forbidden “perimeters of life” to satisfy one’s curiosity will lead to adverse consequences of the mind, body, and spiritual life. Such consequences and shame is not worth it. He shared stories and cases of other people’s mistakes to support his point and in his attempt to greatly warn students of the dangers of drugs. He asserts that one should never try, “not even once, for every addiction begins with a ‘first time.’” Following were some crucial and serious reminders. He states, “be reminded of your purpose here at MVC – to study and to finish your studies.” He adds, “You still have higher heights to reach.” One should not waste it all because of drugs. What a tragedy it is to enter into substance addiction at the expense of one’s educational pursuit and aspirations. He then directed the students’ thoughts to consider their parents. The sacrifices parents make. Their financial and

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prayerful support for the sake of their son or daughter’s success. He reiterates, “Do not waste all of these.” Moreover, it’s not just drugs that one should be aware of. Alcohol, cigarette, and unwise relationships – these may be hindrances to students. In ending, Espenido expressed some gracious wishes for the students of MVC. “I wish that my God is the same as your God. I hope that your stay here will not be a waste. I hope your parents’ support do not end.” And lastly, an emphasis of his message and his prayer for students of MVC is that they “may be principled in the Lord.” The evening excitingly ended with people in attendance flocking their way to the front to take a picture with Chief Inspector Jovie R. Espenido.

To Lands Far Away July 22, 2018 | Charles Dave Negre

e may all have that fantasy or daydream about going abroad. To be able to go there to work, to travel, to meet people and get to know other culture. But as clear as daylight, fantasies and dreams do not come that easy. It may come, but in the far future. The

dream of highly imagined laughter and chatter, the equally longed for joy of visiting lands far away have to wait... Or does it? Luckily we can erase the words “far future” and replace it with “now.” For years, MVC has been offering the work and travel program as an internship for the students of the School of Business and Accountancy, although it is also open to all who are interested to join. They have collaborated with two agencies to make our dreams come true. Last Thursday, July 12 2018, the first agency, HR International Manila (HRI) had their orientation about the program and how students can avail of it. With the leadership of their marketing manager, they presented the advantages, the fun, and other things you have to know if you join this WORK AND TRAVEL program (WAT). They did not have only college student as attendees, but

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also some from the senior high school for early awareness. This was done so that when these students are already in college and they want to join the WAT program, then it would be easier for them to do so. The following day, 13th of July, a Friday, the second agency, UTP Beyond Borders came. With the leadership of their area manager, Ms. Djonnabelle Veloso; and program adviser, Clark Patulombon,

they conducted their own orientation on the procedures and requirements for the WAT program. They also have offered the internship program for graduating students. This way, instead of only staying in the United States for 2 months, they have the option to lengthen their stay from 6 months to one year. Offers such as discounts and other promos were also discussed. Positive feedbacks from participants of the WAT program could be heard. Mr. Serps Jay L. Bruce said, “Being there was a great experience.” He worked as a life guard in the wilderness resort in Wisconsin Dells. He further shared, “Though working on days can be tiring and draining, but seeing the little kids there makes the stress go away. They have the cutest way of showing their innocence; and (I like) the fact that I was there to save lives.” He also stated that the Adventist brethren from Portage Wisconsin SDA Church were kind and fun to be with. They have visited many places while they were there. As I was personally interviewing him, I can see the joy imbedded in his words. I am sure that the others who also went there have the same joy in their hearts. So if you also have that dream of seeing the world and actually work there, then join the WAT program and experience the lasting memories of the day you first touched snow, to eat American food in America, and to actually interact with the people across the sea. Be there and journey to the lands far away. Special thanks to following students for sharing their experiences and further information about the program: Ms. Loughreen Campañero, Ms. Clarice Salavaria, Ms. Shanie Lou Dona, and Mr. Serps Jay Bruce.

In Closing … Announcements | From The Mail Bag | Prayer Requests | Acknowledgment

Meet The Editors |Closing Thoughts

Alumni Announcements

MVCSNAA Announcement

We hope to see all alumni, family, and friends attend our MVCSNAA 2018 Reunion from August 31st to September 2nd at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Those who are staying at the Park Inn Radisson Hotel will receive a 50% discount towards MVCSNAA membership fee at registration. The main event on Saturday includes a breakfast, lunch, and banquet package for $120; for those who are not staying at the resort but want to attend the banquet dinner, a $90 package is available. Don't forget to pack your Disney character costume for the Gala for a chance to win some fun prizes. When you attend this reunion, you will be helping the MVCSNAA project for a state-of-the-art nutrition kitchen laboratory valued at $5,000. Also, eligible expenses may be Tax Deductible through the CEU program. Sunday morning also offers awards for the 5K race, the 3K walk, and the Limping Competition. We are encouraging everyone to join us. We are looking forward to seeing you there! Connie Calumia Calica, PIO MVCSNAA

Alumni Calendar

When What Where For More Info

2018. Aug31, Sept 1-2

Reunion MVC School of Nursing Alumni in North America

Florida, USA Raylene Baumgart

2018. Dec28-Jan1 GYC 2018 Houston, TX https://gycweb.org/conference/information/

2019. Jul 15-19 Reunion School of Nursing 50th Anniversary Reunion

MVC Campus

Dr. Gladden Flores Davaney Bayeta

2019 Aug 12-17 Int’l Pathfinder Camporee Oshkosh, WI www.camporee.org 2020? TBD Reunion MVC Alumni NEW MVC

Campus

Dr. Gladden Flores

Prayer Requests

FOR THE CONTINUED HEALING OF: Ching Rivera, Virgie Osita, Pastor Oseas Zamora, Pastor Remelito Tabingo and members of the MVC Alumni & Friends who are sick.

Meet The Editors

This week’s issue of Cyberflashes was by Joy Caballero-Gadia. Next issue will be in two weeks and will be

by Joy Caballero-Gadia in lieu of Evelyn Tabingo. Please direct all entries to her or to any of the editors.

NAME: EMAIL ADDRESS:

Eddie Zamora ezamora594 at aol dot com Evelyn Porteza-Tabingo etabingo at gmail dot com Jessie Colegado Cyberflashes at gmail dot com Joy Caballero-Gadia watermankids at yahoo dot com Lily EscaraLare LyLare at Hotmail dot com Melodie Mae Karaan-Inapan melodieinapan at yahoo dot com Raylene Rodrigo-Baumgart raylene.baumgart at gmail dot com Romulo ‘Romy’ Halasan romsnake at gmail dot com

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Acknowledgement A special thank you to the following who helped make this week’s issue of CyberFlashes:

• Sulad Larve Limbagan, Darlene Gersava Sabandal & Mike Halasan for their photos

• Jessie Colegado for chuckles in “Jessie’s Patch of Weeds”,

• The SULADS and Gospel Outreach for the Sulads updates.

• Eddie Zamora for patiently waiting for the CF to be done so he could mail it out.

• HilltopFlashes staff for sharing 2 news items

Closing Thoughts

The Editor

There is much beauty around us: the smile of a friend, the experiences gained from serving, and the assurance that God is faithful. When we pause to truly look around us, we also see many beautiful scenes. It is our prayer that this week you find much for which to be thankful!

Until then, SHINE ON! Till Jesus Comes!

Photographer Larve Limbagan says of this photo, “I am inviting everyone to come and visit Bukidnon to see this for yourself! This is a view of Sulads Comprehensive High School for the Lumads (SCHSL). Sto Domingo, Kipaypayon, Quezon, Bukidnon.”

Happy Sabbath