How my career in the Kapamilya network began
I am among the thousands of employees who received their notice of termination last week after the ABS-CBN franchise wasn’t renewed......»»
Anne Curtis, Ogie Alcasid, Karylle return to GMA via It s Showtime
Kapamilya stars Anne Curtis, Ogie Alcasid and Karylle have returned to media network GMA via "It's Showtime.".....»»
Delightful discovery: Wilbert Rossas a sensitive singer-songwriter
If you need (or want) to balance off JK Labajo’s roaring, moaning, shrieking, cussing singing in his latest blockbuster single “Ere”, go for Wilbert Ross’ EP album Lampara, recently released by Viva Music on major music platforms. An actor just like Labajo, Ross emotes pain, loss and acceptance of one’s dire straits with restrained anger and without cursing. Ross wrote four of the six songs in the album — none of which, by the way, is titled Lampara. The album’s title is really an announcement of Ross’ intention for his music and lyrics to be a guiding light for the multitude, so to speak. The album’s lead song is “Handa Ako,” which he performs serenely with indie singer Mika Salamanca. “Byahe Ng Buhay”, meanwhile, takes listeners on a lyrical journey through life’s ups and downs. “Dramatic Actor” combines melodious vocals with a touch of drama. “Benteng Ukit” could have been rendered in a frenetic, howling style, but, sorry, that’s not Ross’ style of singing. The song is about self-inflicted wounds, and Ross wrote it during a bout with clinical depression at the height of the pandemic. The two other cuts in the album are “Nakangiti” and “Andito Lang Ako.” It was as a contestant at ABS-CBN’s singing contests Tawag ng Tanghalan of It’s Showtime and Pinoy Boyband Superstar that Ross took his first steps into showbiz. He was in his teens, fresh from Davao, and still using the surname “Rosalyn,” which seems to be the surname of his stepfather. Ups and downs At the recent media launch for Lampara, Ross shared that his Chinese biological dad left the family during Ross’ childhood. His mom is Indonesian. His biological dad passed on two years ago, but Ross got to meet him as a grown-up once or twice. The tall, soft-spoken, very articulate (in Tagalog) Wilbert began to use “Ross” as a showbiz surname when he was recruited to join the second batch of the singing and dancing boy group Hashtags for It’s Showtime. Ross said he has been writing songs for years now and recording them as a soundtrack for some of his acting assignments, such as the Puregold supermarket chain’s web series Ang Lalake sa Likod ng Profile which ended last July. He has no love life at this point, he said, which seems to be a requirement in Pinoy showbiz to sustain interest in an actor’s career. And the stars have to write about the ups and downs of their romances on their social media accounts. Labajo’s shrieking songs of pain would have sounded senseless if he and ex-girlfriend beauty queen Maureen Wroblewitz did not publicly hint about the agonies wrought by their soured relationship on their social media accounts. Ross the actor also wants to be known as a singer-songwriter. He has a marked supporting role in Viva Films’ Nokturno, topbilled by Nadine Lustre. Viva submitted the movie for this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival but it failed to make the cut. There’s another singer-songwriter who roars and howls about her angst: Cool Cat Ash, whose real name is Ashley Aunor. She’s the daughter of Lala Aunor, a member of the “Apat na Sikat” group of teen idols in the ‘70s. Perfect timing It’s perfect timing that the QCinema International Film Festival is being held in November. The festival screens a good number of foreign films that were released to critical acclaim sometime this year or last year. The next big showbiz event that comes after it is the Metro Manila Film Festival, during which only Filipino movies are shown all over the country. The MMFF usually presents only eight films, but this year there are 10 official entries. Those who love foreign films can have their fill of world cinema (60 films this year!) before the MMFF fills the theaters with all-Filipino fare for 10 days during the holiday season. The QCinema International Film Festival, now on its 11th year, runs 17-29 November. The opening film is the Golden Lion winner in this year’s Venice Film Festival, Poor Things. The post Delightful discovery: Wilbert Rossas a sensitive singer-songwriter appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Toxic? Britney tells of troubles in new memoir
Britney Spears, the dewy-eyed child star who became a global pop phenomenon and then melted down in full view of the world, tells her story Tuesday with the release of her already bestselling memoir. "The Woman In Me" is the pop princess in her own, unvarnished words, shot through with the anguish of a family she believes has failed her at every step of the way, in an industry that mercilessly devours its talent. From sharing daiquiris with her mother as a young teenager -- two years after she became a regular on "The Mickey Mouse Club" -- to the 13 years she spent as an adult in a conservatorship, the memoir details how she struggled to escape the influence of her controlling father. Until two years ago, when she got out from under the conservatorship legal relationship that she says dictated everything from her birth control choices to the set list at lucrative Las Vegas gigs. In the intervening months, Spears has married a former dancer, announced then lost a pregnancy, and is now on the road to her third divorce. The book, whose pre-orders catapulted it to the top of the Amazon best-seller list, was produced too early to include that coda with husband Sam Asghari. But readers will still have plenty to chew on. 'Harlot' Tidbits that have leaked ahead of publication include news of an abortion Spears says fellow Mickey Mouse Club alum Justin Timberlake urged her to have after she became pregnant while the couple was together. When the pair split, and his hit "Cry Me A River" appeared to be about the way he felt she had betrayed him, Spears was painted as the "harlot who'd broken the heart of America's golden boy," she writes. In reality, he was "happily running around Hollywood" while she was "comatose in Louisiana." Readers have also learned of a brief but intense affair with Irish actor and Oscar nominee Colin Farrell, what she calls "a two-week brawl." "Brawl is the only word for it -- we were all over each other, grappling so passionately it was like we were in a street fight." The noughties brought fame and notoriety to Spears in equal measure, with a passionate fan base eager for every last scrap of news about her. That collided with an aggressive paparazzi culture that delighted in capturing her partying alongside hell-raisers like Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan. Spears insists there were never hard drugs and that she did not have a drinking problem, but admits that she was taking Adderall, the ADHD medication. A publicly played-out bust-up with second husband Kevin Federline, and an ensuing custody fight over their two children, presaged the emotional low watermark: shaving her head and attacking a photographer's car. "Flailing those weeks without my children, I lost it, over and over again," she writes. "I didn't even really know how to take care of myself. "I'd begin to think in some ways like a child." A year later, the courts appointed her father Jamie Spears to control her money and her personal life. Over the next 13 years, she was told who she could see, and how much she could spend, and even ordered not to have more children. Yet under Jamie Spears, she would still perform as a pop icon. "Too sick to choose my own boyfriend and yet somehow healthy enough to appear on sitcoms and morning shows, and to perform for thousands of people in a different part of the world every week." "From that point on, I began to think that (my father) saw me as put on the earth for no other reason than to help their cash flow." Jamie Spears has always insisted that he had the best interests of his daughter at heart and was seeking to protect her from exploitation. The conservatorship was dissolved in 2021, but -- aside from collaborations with Elton John and will.i.am -- it has not heralded a return to creativity for Spears. "Pushing forward in my music career is not my focus at the moment," the now-41-year-old Britney writes. "It's time for me not to be someone who other people want; it's time to actually find myself.".....»»
A positive difference
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,” Mahatma Gandhi once said. Marian Wright Edelman states, “Service is the rent we pay for being. It is the very purpose of life, and not something you do in your spare time.” Two memorable statements capture the essence of Attorney Kelvin Lester Lee, hailed by Dean Antonio La Viña of Ateneo School of Government as “one of the finest and most visionary individuals to have emerged from Ateneo Law School.” It’s no surprise that Atty. Lee became a Commissioner at the Securities and Exchange Commission in 2019. While his position may be formidable, those who have met him in person can attest to his kind-hearted nature and willingness to devote his time generously. When expressing his views, he displays a remarkable level of candor, always taking the time to carefully consider his words before speaking. Aside from his sense of humor, Lee possesses a remarkable ability to engage in meaningful conversations. When he speaks, he has a way of looking directly into your eyes, underscoring the significance of his words. Even in intense situations, he maintains a calm demeanor and is known to offer a comforting smile, lightening the atmosphere. In his role as Commissioner at the SEC, Atty. Lee assumes the responsibility of overseeing various crucial departments and divisions. These include the markets and securities regulation department, the information and communications technology department, the PhiliFintech innovation office dedicated to Philippine financial technology, and the international affairs and protocol division. Moreover, he holds authority over capital markets, sustainable finance, Fintech and information technology, and international affairs, ensuring their effective management and implementation. While the enormity of those tasks might induce vertigo in most individuals, Atty. Lee remains unfazed. “It is perhaps the best job I have ever had,” he admitted. “I enjoy making a positive change in the sector I am handling. I enjoy pushing innovations and encouraging improvements in the financial sector and capital markets.” With great responsibility, Lee adopts a heightened level of caution. Recognizing the potential impact of his words, he expressed the need to exercise carefulness in his public statements, as any statement he makes can influence the stock market. This awareness underscores his commitment to acting with prudence and considering the far-reaching implications of his words. Let’s delve into the life of Lee, who began his journey in the humble city of Davao, his birthplace. He embarked on his educational path at the Ateneo de Davao University for his grade school education, followed by his enrollment at Davao Central High School, then called Davao Chinese High School. After completing his schooling in Davao, he ventured to Beijing, China, where he pursued studies in the Chinese language and gained work experience with a foreign company. However, after two years, he returned to the Philippines and enrolled in Ateneo de Manila University to pursue a law degree. This journey showcases his diverse experiences and the foundation of his educational and cultural background. “The Ateneo de Manila entrance exam was the only one I could take that year when I came back from China,” he said, adding that he never dreamed of becoming a lawyer. “I just wanted to give it a try. And found I was a surprisingly good fit for it.” As a lawyer, he has five ideal lawyers. Only one is a foreigner: Sir Thomas Moore, an English lawyer, social philosopher, author, and statesman whom Roman Catholics venerated as Saint Thomas More. “He stood by his faith and principles,” he said. Fresh from hurdling the Bar exam, he worked at the Siguion-Reyna Montecillo and Ongsiako law firm, where he learned the importance of being enterprising and putting in a diligent effort to succeed. However, despite his professional growth, he decided to quit and return to his hometown of Davao, placing the deeply rooted value on family and prioritizing personal and familial responsibilities above career pursuits. As a father to two daughters, Atty. Lee expressed that fatherhood has had a profound impact on him, bringing about significant changes. He considers it one of the greatest blessings he could ever receive. According to him, the love that his children show him is genuine and unmatched. He believes that the love of young children is unparalleled. Experiencing this level of love is indescribable, knowing someone loves you unconditionally. This extraordinary bond makes fatherhood one of the most precious and fulfilling aspects of his life. “The love your kids show you is real,” he said. “You will never be as loved as you are by your young children. There is no feeling quite like it to know that someone loves you as much as that. That’s what makes it one of the best things.” Working in government “It is an honor to serve. Very few people get an opportunity to help the country and serve the president and the people,” said Lee, who is a former assistant secretary at the Office of the Executive Secretary in Malacañang, where he was also designated to sit on the Board of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority. Atty. Lee’s dedication to public service earned him well-deserved recognition in his field. In March this year, he received two international accolades for his role in driving the advancement of financial technology in the Philippine business sector, highlighting his visionary thinking and influential impact solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in the field. In the 10th annual Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, Lee was bestowed the Gold Stevie award for his outstanding contributions as a Thought Leader of the Year. These awards celebrate workplace innovation across all 29 countries in the Asia-Pacific region. From a vast pool of over 800 regional nominations, winners were selected in various categories, including the Award for Excellence in Innovation in Products & Services, the Award for Innovative Management, and the Award for Innovation in Corporate Websites, among others. “It feels great. It’s always wonderful to be recognized for all the hard work and changes you pursue at a government agency. And I was quite surprised to get the Gold Stevie Award, the highest level of the award for thought leadership. I feel so honored!” In the next decade, Atty. Lee, now 44, envisions continuing his career in law, possibly incorporating elements of technology, and hopes to stay actively involved in government work and make a significant impact by fostering meaningful transformation. “Working in government can be quite fulfilling. I encourage young lawyers and professionals to enter the arena and work in government to try and make a positive difference.” The post A positive difference appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Why being slapped by Maricel Soriano is a dream for Pinoy actors
Maricel Soriano inevitably became the recipient of tribute-like statements from her costars at the recent media conference for the psychological drama series Linlang, which premiered last Thursday, 5 October, on Prime Video. [caption id="attachment_194585" align="aligncenter" width="788"] MARICEL Soriano[/caption] The 58-year-old actress, called the Diamond Star in recognition of her illustrious career in Philippine movies that began in her childhood, made lasting impressions on younger colleagues Kim Chiu, Paulo Avelino, JM de Guzman and Kaila Estrada, as well as on an older castmate, Ruby Ruiz, while shooting the series. “She’s the Diamond Star for a reason,” Estrada exclaimed. Nodding, De Guzman said, “Naging challenge sa ’kin pagka magka-eksena kami. Nanonood ako sa kanya kasi sobrang galing. Nadadala ako sa scene (It became a challenge to be in a scene with her. She’s so good. I get carried away).” Avelino summed up his feelings for his senior co-star with “napakaraming respeto at paghanga (So much respect and admiration).” Soriano, who’s also called Inay by people close to her, just played it cool, even cracking jokes. “Wala bang cash?’ Puro na lang salita ang natatanggap ko (No cash? I only get good words),” she quipped. Accolades But the accolades kept pouring in, this time about how she can make a slapping scene so realistic that a fellow award-winning actress once said she literally saw stars after being slapped by Soriano. Chiu revealed that she has at least one slapping scene with Soriano in Linlang, which tackles marital infidelity and other forms of deception. “Sobra po akong natigalgal. Siyempre, di ba, pangarap ’yun ng isang artista na masampal ni Inay. Bucket list naming lahat ’yun. Bucket list, check! Ang lala! Baseball! (I was stunned. It’s every actor’s dream to get slapped by Inay. It’s in our bucket list. Mine is so strong, like being hit by a baseball).” Soriano then explained, “Mahirap kasing i-fake ’yun. Kailangang maramdaman ’yung galit ng nanay (It’s difficult to fake the emotions. I have to let out a mother’s anger).” In the story, she’s the mother of both De Guzman and Avelino’s characters. Chiu, on the other hand, plays the woman who comes between the two brothers. Ruiz, who takes on the role of Chiu’s grandmother, noted that Soriano gave “sobrang totoo n’yang emosyon (all-too-real emotions) in that slapping scene. Napakahusay ng pag-arte. Parang hindi umaarte (excellent acting, like not acting at all).” She expressed her fervent wish to work with Soriano again. “Hindi lang sampal ang gusto ko sa kanya. Umaatikabong acting (It’s not just a slap I want to get from her, but also the highest level of acting). Kung meron akong hindi malilimutan, ’yung friendship na nabuo namin ni Miss Maricel Soriano (If there’s one thing I won’t forget, it’s the friendship I’ve made with Miss Maricel Soriano).” Beyond the Diamond Star tag and image, Soriano is loved for her maternally caring ways, hence the pet name Inay. As De Guzman put it, “Parang nanay s’ya po talaga sa set. Inaalagaan n’ya po kami (She’s really like a mom on the set. She takes care of us).” Soriano herself gave examples of how she takes care of her wards, such as putting on baby powder and towel on their backs to avoid getting soaked by sweat. “Masaya ako, kaya looking forward ako na pumunta sa set nang maaga. Inaantay ko sila, ‘Anong latest? Naghahanap ako ng latest (I’m happy, that’s why I look forward to coming to set early. I wait for them, and then ask, ‘What’s the latest news?’).” Generous According to Chiu, “Very generous si Inay. Ang dami n’yang binibigay sa ’min, lalo na ’ko kasi magka-paa kami. So ang dami-dami ko nang sapatos na mamahalin galing kay Inay (She gives us a lot of stuff. I now have so many expensive shoes that were given by Inay).” Also, “Ang dami n’ya parating pagkain sa kuwarto n’ya, so pupunta lang kami do’n, tapos magkukuwentuhan kami and chikahan, gano’n (She has so much food in her room. We just go there and chat).” “Ang galing lang na makatrabaho ang isang (It’s great to work with) Maricel Soriano na ang tagal-tagal na sa industriya pero (who’s been in the business for so long, yet is so) down-to-earth and very accommodating to help ’yung mga artista na katulad namin (other actors like us),” Chiu added. For his part, Avelino said he takes the initiative to remind new actors, when they get the chance to work with Soriano, to a least introduce themselves, say hi and show respect to a much-esteemed pillar of the industry. The post Why being slapped by Maricel Soriano is a dream for Pinoy actors appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Museo ng Makati celebrates Patis Tesoro creations
In the vibrant tapestry of Filipino arts and heritage, few threads are as intricate and captivating as fashion. Much like traditions and customs, fashion as a form of artistic and cultural expression has played a pivotal role in shaping the Filipino identity and has evolved alongside the nation’s rich history. It is not just about clothes, it is the tales they share, the craftsmanship they embody, the heritage they preserve, and the patrimony they carry on through generations. The Museo ng Makati, housed in the old Presidencia, which served as the town hall until 1961 and has since been declared as an Important Cultural Property of our islands, proudly presented the Grand Dame of Filipino Fashion herself, Patis Tesoro. Entitled Kasuotang Filipino: Mga Likha ni Patis Tesoro, this exhibition was a testament to the enduring legacy of our people’s artistic expression. Although celebrated for its romantic allure, these also carry expressions of love for our country. The exhibit highlighted the enduring 50-year lifelong friendship between Patis and Mita Rufino, who loaned a part of her personal Tesoro-designed Filipiniana. Rufino’s impeccable taste in fashion mirrors her support for the finest designers and creators in the field, with Tesoro as a favorite due to their numerous collaborations. Maria Beatriz Pamintuan Tesoro, lovingly known as Patis, is the force behind this remarkable assemblage. Her journey began in Iloilo, where she drew inspiration from her mother’s dressmaking skills and honed her own dexterity in embroidery during her time at the Assumption Iloilo. [gallery columns="5" size="full" ids="194543,194542,194541,194540,194539"] Her pursuit of artistic excellence brought her to Marygrove College in Michigan, United States, where she studied Art Education. The visionary’s passion in everything Filipino deepened when she married the late Tito Tesoro, whose family owns the iconic Filipino handicrafts store Tesoros. Together with former Philippine First Lady Amelita “Ming” Ramos, Patis worked tirelessly to protect, preserve and promote the use of pineapple or piña fabric, collaborating closely with local farmers to bolster their production. Even today, she continues to champion Filipino textiles and embroidery traditions, while infusing bohemian styles and practical, everyday clothing into her creations. While Tesoro’s genius was on the spotlight, it was equally dedicated to the exquisite beauty and exceptional craftsmanship of Filipino weavers and artisans, burdareras and costureras. The creations on display were nothing short of breathtaking. The venue showcased 23 long gowns that spanned fashion influences from various regions of the archipelago, which offered glimpses into her sensibilities throughout her illustrious career. These reflected her vision of the elegant Filipino attires. [caption id="attachment_194537" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Fashion innovator Patis Tesoro, curator Albert Figueras and Filipino Heritage Festival Foundation Inc. president Mita Rufino. | PHOTOGRAPHS by Edu Jarque[/caption] Hand in hand, fashion designer Albert Figueras had contributed his private treasure trove of fabrics from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, offering visitors a valuable opportunity to acquaint themselves on native textiles and weaving traditions — a critical endeavor in an era dominated by fast fashion and synthetic fabrics. Figueras played a crucial role in curating the whole affair. In attendance were civic servants such as Makati City Vice Mayor Monique Lagdameo and notable diplomats, business leaders, fashion afficionados, textile artists and modern trendsetters. The event was made possible by the Filipino Heritage Festival Inc. spearheaded by its president, Mita Rufino. SM Makati manager Kathleen Anne Cruz and SM Retail president Cielo Monasterio generously supported the show. The exhibit also saw a romantic performance of a string of kundimans from the Choral Society of Makati, joined by the city’s 2018 champion and a member of the University of Makati Chorale Kristina Maniling. The post Museo ng Makati celebrates Patis Tesoro creations appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Trial of disgraced crypto star Bankman-Fried begins
The trial of Sam Bankman-Fried, former CEO of one of cryptocurrency's biggest exchanges, began Tuesday with a jury set to determine if he committed massive fraud by stealing billions of dollars from clients. The 31-year-old -- once one of the most respected figures in crypto -- now faces decades in prison and could see his name stand alongside Bernie Madoff and Elizabeth Holmes as the era's most prominent fraudsters. The first day of the trial was devoted to jury selection for a case that is set to last about six weeks. Bankman-Fried faces seven counts including wire fraud, securities and commodities fraud, and money laundering. He risks more than 100 years behind bars if he is found guilty on all charges. Bankman-Fried entered the courtroom alone -- without being escorted by security guards -- uncuffed, and took his place alongside his lawyers, an AFP journalist observed. Dressed in a dark suit and striped tie, his usually long curly hair was cut short, reportedly by a fellow inmate at the Brooklyn jail where he is being detained. "You have the right to testify in your defense in this case. The decision is up to you," US District Judge Lewis Kaplan told Bankman Fried. In just a few years, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduate turned his FTX platform into the world's second-biggest crypto exchange, making him a tech world billionaire wunderkind. FTX became a global name through a marketing campaign that included celebrity partnerships with stars such as supermodel Gisele Bundchen and basketball legend Stephen Curry, and buying the naming rights for the home arena of the Miami Heat basketball club. Bankman-Fried also stepped in as a kind of savior of the industry when other crypto companies faced difficulties, with FTX swooping in to offer a financial lifeline. At the height of his career, Bankman-Fried was thought to be worth $26 billion as he attracted droves of small investors to invest in cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin or Ethereum. But his steep rise was matched by his ignominious downfall, which saw him escorted last year by police from his luxury apartment in the Bahamas and extradited to face charges in the United States. 'Gambling at own casino' His empire began to crumble last November when a news report pointed to unhealthy ties between the FTX platform and Alameda Research, Bankman-Fried's personally owned-trading company. The revelations kept growing and major investors pulled their money out of FTX, sinking it swiftly into bankruptcy. Once the dust had settled, some $8.7 billion in client funds was still unaccounted for and Bankman-Fried was accused of using FTX deposits to buy luxury real estate or donate more than $100 million to US politicians through Alameda. "He was gambling in his own casino and it created conflicts of interest," Michael Lewis, an author who followed Bankman-Fried closely during the period, told CBS. Everything "unravels because the depositors at FTX want their money back and it's not all there," the author of "Liar's Poker" and other titles added. The climax of the trial is expected to be when his former friends and colleagues take the stand, including Carlonie Ellison, his one-time romantic partner and Alameda executive, and Gary Wang, his closest associate. Ellison and Wang have also been indicted in the case and agreed to cooperate with US authorities, which may prove Bankman-Fried's undoing. After his spectacular arrest in the Bahamas, Bankman-Fried was initially held under house arrest but was ordered behind bars in August over alleged attempts at witness intimidation. According to prosecutors, while holed up at his parents' home in California, Bankman-Fried spoke regularly to journalists and passed documents to The New York Times in an effort to influence the testimony of Ellison. The post Trial of disgraced crypto star Bankman-Fried begins appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Former gang leader charged with rapper Tupac Shakur’s 1996 murder
A quarter of a century after Tupac Shakur was gunned down in a gang feud in Las Vegas, a man was charged Friday with his murder, a killing that came to symbolize the violence of gangsta rap as it surged into the mainstream. Duane "Keffe D" Davis, 60, had long acknowledged his involvement in the slaying, boasting he was the "on-site commander" in the effort to kill Shakur and Death Row Records boss Marion "Suge" Knight in revenge for his nephew's assault. Davis' early morning arrest Friday followed 27 years of investigations by police, who had been frustrated by an apparent lack of useable evidence, and came two months after they raided his home in Henderson, just outside Las Vegas. "The presumption is great that he is responsible for the murder of Tupac Shakur, and he will be found guilty of murder with the use of a deadly weapon," prosecutor Marc DiGiacomo told a court in Nevada. Shakur, the best-selling hip-hop artist behind hits such as "California Love," "Changes," and "Dear Mama," was already a huge star in the world of rap when he was gunned down in Las Vegas on 7 September 1996. He was just 25. He was signed to Death Row Records, an outfit associated at the time with Los Angeles street gang Mob Piru, which had a long-standing beef with the Southside Compton Crips. DiGiacomo said on the day of the murder, Shakur and Death Row Records co-founder Knight were in Las Vegas to watch Mike Tyson fight. In a hotel elevator lobby, they set upon Crips member Orlando Anderson, the nephew of Davis. "(Davis) formulated a plan to exact revenge upon Mr Knight and Mr Shakur" for this beating, DiGiacomo said. "He acquired a 40-caliber Glock firearm from a drug associate. "He gets into (a light-colored) Cadillac and he provides the 40-caliber Glock firearm to one of the two individuals in the back seat," and the group set off to find their intended victims. The two rap moguls were spotted in a car on a Las Vegas street. "They pulled up next to the vehicle and the rear passenger fired a number of rounds out of that vehicle striking Mr Knight in the head and Mr Shakur several times," DiGiacomo said. Shakur died in a hospital several days later. Knight survived. The prosecutor said what happened that night had been largely understood by investigators for many years, but they had not had sufficient admissible evidence to advance the case. That began to change when Davis, reportedly the only person in the car that night still alive, published an autobiography and spoke about the crime for a TV show. "He admitted to being the front right passenger in the light Cadillac and that he was the on-ground, on-site commander of the effort to kill Tupac Shakur and Suge Knight." A court hearing in the case was scheduled for next week. Rivalry Shakur had a brief but stratospheric career, rapidly rising from backup dancer to self-styled gangsta rapper and one of the most influential figures in hip-hop, selling 75 million records. He became a key figure in a vaunted rivalry, egged on by promoters, between East Coast and West Coast hip-hop. Though born in New York, Shakur moved as a teenager with his family to California, becoming one of the most identifiable figures in the West Coast scene. Shakur's murder was followed six months later by the shooting death in Los Angeles of his rival, East Coast rapper Christopher "The Notorious BIG" Wallace. The investigation's slow progress led to accusations police were not trying hard enough to find the killers of young Black men. Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Sheriff Kevin McMahill on Friday said that was not true. "I know there have been many people who did not believe that the murder of Tupac Shakur was important to this police department," he told reporters. "I'm here to tell you, that was simply not the case. It was not the case back then. And it is not the case today. "Our goal... has always been to hold those accountable and responsible for Tupac's violent murder accountable." The post Former gang leader charged with rapper Tupac Shakur’s 1996 murder appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Senate titan Dianne Feinstein dead at 90
Veteran Senator Dianne Feinstein, a titan of US political history who notched a string of legislative achievements during a trailblazing three-decade career in the Senate, has died at 90 years old, US media said Friday. Feinstein, the Senate's oldest member, was celebrated as a pioneer for women in politics and a hugely effective legislator. During a career that began in local California government, she grew to be a tough check on administrations from both parties. She had already announced her retirement this February as her health worsened and following a number of missteps that threatened her legacy. The Californian, who was widowed last year, became San Francisco's first female mayor after the fatal shooting in 1978 of Harvey Milk, the country's only openly gay politician, and mayor George Moscone by a disgruntled former colleague. Other dramatic moments including surviving an attempted bombing of her home. She was also near the scene of an infamous double murder in San Francisco. Her death is not expected to shift the tight balance of power in the Senate, with the Democratic governor of California appointing her temporary replacement. Summing up her dedication to public service, Feinstein once said that "even with a divided Congress, we can still pass bills that will improve lives. Each of us was sent here to solve problems." "That's what I've done for the last 30 years, and that's what I plan to do for the next two years." Democrats in her home state led tributes as news of the senator's death cast a pall over proceedings in Congress, with staff placing flowers on Feinstein's desk in the Senate chamber, according to Fox News. "She was a trailblazer and dedicated her life to public service," said David Valadao, a member of California's delegation in the House of Representatives. An icon in Senate politics who took the lead on hundreds of bills, Feinstein rose to the chairmanship of the powerful intelligence committee -- another first for a woman. Her achievements include writing the 1994 assault rifle ban and producing a 6,700-page report on the CIA torture program during the US "war on terror." But it was in her home state of California where she first made her mark. As the first female Board of Supervisors president in San Francisco, Feinstein led the city through the tumult that followed the fatal shootings in 1978 of Milk. She replaced the mayor and served for 10 years as a no-nonsense pragmatist, willing to work across the aisle, balancing nine budgets in a row and being declared the nation's "Most Effective Mayor" by local government bible City and State Magazine. Latterly, the pandemic and her husband's declining health curtailed her public appearances outside of Congress and she faced growing misgivings about her declining cognitive abilities, raised by figures in her own party. The youngest member of Congress, 26-year-old Maxwell Frost, described Feinstein as a "champion for Gun Violence Prevention that broke barriers at all levels of government." "We wouldn't have had an assault weapons ban if it wasn't for Senator Feinstein and due to her tireless work, we will win it back," he posted on social media. The post Senate titan Dianne Feinstein dead at 90 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Harry Potter’ actor Michael Gambon dies aged 82
British-Irish actor Michael Gambon, best known for playing Albus Dumbledore in six of the eight "Harry Potter" films, has died in hospital aged 82, his family announced Thursday. Gambon won four television BAFTAs and an Olivier award during a decades-spanning acting career across television, film, radio, and theatre, which was capped by his beloved role as the headmaster of the wizarding school Hogwarts in the Potter series. "We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon," a statement issued on behalf of his family said. "Beloved husband and father, Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus at his bedside, following a bout of pneumonia." Gambon, born in Ireland, began his illustrious acting career in theatre, making his first appearance on stage in a production of "Othello" at the Gates Theatre in the Irish capital Dublin in 1962. He became well known in Britain for playing a French detective in the ITV series "Maigret", and for his 1986 role as Philip Marlow in screenwriter Dennis Potter's "The Singing Detective". He put in a memorable performance in the BBC's 2015 adaptation of JK Rowling's "The Casual Vacancy", while his theatre credentials include appearances in Alan Ayckbourn's "The Norman Conquests", "The Life Of Galileo" and Nicholas Hytner's National Theatre productions of "Henry IV". Film roles included in period dramas such as 2010's "The King's Speech" and 2001's "Gosford Park". But he won global acclaim for his performances as Dumbledore in the wildly popular "Harry Potter" films, beginning with 1997's "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone". Gambon was knighted for his contribution to the entertainment industry in 1998. Tributes began to pour in following news of his death. "I'm so sad to hear that Michael Gambon has died," former Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson said on social media, recalling that the actor was such a "tremendous guest" he had a corner named after him on the BBC show's race track. "He was hugely amusing, and such a tremendous guest, we even named a corner after him." The post ‘Harry Potter’ actor Michael Gambon dies aged 82 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
UK media investigate sex assault claims against comedian Brand
The BBC and Channel 4, former employers of British actor and comedian Russell Brand, said Sunday they were investigating claims of rape, sexual assaults and emotional abuse over a seven-year period, which the 48-year-old has denied. Four women have alleged sexual assaults between 2006 and 2013 when Brand was at the height of his fame working as a presenter for BBC Radio 2, Channel 4 and acting in Hollywood movies, a joint media investigation said Saturday. The broadcasters BBC and Channel 4, along with the production company Banijay UK, said Sunday that they would open internal inquiries into the claims. "We are urgently looking into the issues raised," a BBC spokesperson told AFP. The allegations were made in a joint investigation by The Sunday Times, the Times, and Channel 4 Dispatches. "Banijay UK has launched an urgent internal investigation and will cooperate with any requests for information from broadcast partners and external agencies," the production firm said. According to the Times investigation, several women have made a range of accusations about Brand's alleged controlling, abusive and predatory behavior. In a video released Friday, Brand denied the "very serious criminal allegations". He said he had received letters from a TV company and a newspaper listing "a litany of extremely egregious and aggressive attacks". "Amidst this litany of astonishing rather baroque attacks are some very serious allegations that I absolutely refute," he said in the video clip posted online. According to the media reports, one woman alleged that Brand raped her in his Los Angeles home, while another claims he assaulted her during a three-month relationship while she was 16 and still at school. Known internationally as the former husband of pop star Katy Perry, Brand began his career as a stand-up comedian in the early 2000s. He was the host of the chat show Big Brother's Big Mouth, a spin-off of the popular reality series, for three years from 2004. He also played rock star Aldous Snow in the 2008 film "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" and its 2010 sequel "Get Him To The Greek". London's Metropolitan Police told AFP that while it was aware of the allegations, "At this time, we have not received any reports in relation to this". "If anyone believes they have been the victim of a sexual assault, no matter how long ago it happened, we would encourage them to contact police," it said. The post UK media investigate sex assault claims against comedian Brand appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Meet the expanded ‘univerkada’ in ‘Safe Skies, Archer’
After the success of The Rain in España, which started streaming in 10 episodes last May on Viva One, the next installment in the hit “University” book series by young author Gwy Saludes on the Wattpad social storytelling platform is coming out this October. In the upcoming Safe Skies, Archer book-to-screen adaptation, the story’s focus shifts from the TRIE couple Luna (Heaven Peralejo) and Kalix (Marco Gallo) to one of Luna’s closest friends Yanna (Krissha Viaje). There are subplots involving Luna and Yanna’s other kabarkada Via (Bea Binene), Kierra (Nicole Omillo) and Sam (Aubrey Caraan), along with Luna’s best friend Sevi (Gab Lagman) and Kalix’s katropa Adonis (Andre Yllana) and Leo (Frost Sandoval). New characters are introduced in the story, notably Yanna’s love interest Hiro (Jerome Ponce) and Kierra’s new man Shan (Jairus Aquino), as well as Shan’s sister Elyse (Hyacinth Callado). The expanding TRIEkada is now referred to as a ‘Univerkada.’ [caption id="attachment_183381" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOCELYN VALLE FOR THE DAILY TRIBUNEKrissha Viaje and Jerome Ponce.[/caption] Viaje admitted in a recent press conference that she feels most pressured among the cast members. “This is the very first series na pagbibidahan ko, (where I will be the lead),” said the 30-year-old actress, who started in showbiz as a member of the song-and-dance GirlTrends group on It’s Showtime. Ponce agreed with his leading lady in the series. The former teen actor in the hit daytime drama Be Careful with My Heart explained, “Iniisip ko how I’m gonna gel with the series itself… Ang character ko, kung paano ko siya magagampanan nang maayos, lalo na ’yung intensity at gaano kaganda ang ginawa nila no’ng una.” (I think of how to portray my character in the best way, given how great they did the first series.) Aquino, who began his acting career in the kiddie gag show Goin’ Bulilit, vowed, “We’re gonna do our best, siyempre to hit all their expectations. We’re just gonna blend with them.” Callado, on the other hand, feels “very lucky and grateful” to be given her first acting break. “I’ve been a singer my whole life,” she said. “But there’s always a part of me that dreams of becoming an actress. Being with Viva gave me that opportunity to explore that part of me.” Peralejo and Gallo, who gave stellar performances in TRIE, expressed excitement and support for Viaje and their three new castmates. “Habang tumatagal kami, lalong dumadami ang cast,” she said. “Nagiging part din ng family namin. Sabi ko nga kay Krissha, susuportahan ko talaga siya the way na sinuportahan n’ya ‘ko. And I think it speaks for the whole cast kung paano kami magsuportahan, as in 100 percent (Our cast keeps expanding, and they become part of the family. I told Krissha I will support her the way she supported me. That’s how the whole cast supports each other – 100 percent)." Gallo concurred with his love-team partner: “I had a good experience with The Rain in España, so I’m excited for Jai and Jerome and Hyacinth to be on the group now… You’re gonna be working a lot, traveling a lot. I’m excited for you, guys. It’s gonna be months of fun, hard work and something to remember forever.” Aside from new cast members, Safe Skies, Archer has a new director in Gino M. Santos, who takes over the reins from Theodore Boborol. Santos said he’s hands-on with the project, revealing that “I was there during the chemistry test, all the auditions.” He added, “We were looking for someone who would fit the characters, not just the physical but also the inner. When we casted these characters, these actors, one thing is mata talaga ang importante sa akin (the eyes were the most important factor). Jerome stood out for how he looked at the character Yanna. Hyacinth and Jairus also together as brother and sister, as siblings, importante rin ’yun. I’m happy with the outcome, the selection.” The post Meet the expanded ‘univerkada’ in ‘Safe Skies, Archer’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Taylor Swift, Shakira shine at MTV Video Music Awards
Taylor Swift cleaned up at Tuesday's MTV Video Music Awards and won the evening's top trophy, as Shakira accepted the night's prestigious Video Vanguard honor with a hip-shaking, career-spanning performance. Swift continued her global reign by scooping awards including Best Song, Best Pop and Best Direction, as well as the top competitive award for Video of the Year, which she won for her hit "Anti-Hero." Turn-of-the-millennium teen heartthrobs NSYNC reunited onstage for the first time in a decade to present her with the Best Pop award, leaving Swift, who is poised to post the first billion-dollar tour, fanning her cheeks. "This is unbelievable," Swift said as she accepted the night's top prize, which she also took home in 2022. "I just want to say that the fact that this is a fan-voted award means so much to me." But she didn't perform on the night known far more for its spectacle than its awards, instead sipping her drink as artists including Olivia Rodrigo, Anitta and Doja Cat took the stage. The made-for-broadcast show, held this year in Newark's Prudential Center, frequently panned to Swift who was seated near the main stage next to Ice Spice, the viral Bronx rapper who has collaborated with the pop phenom and who won the evening's prize for Best New Artist. A camera operator was reportedly tasked with filming Swift for the show's entire duration. The nearly four-hour show that included some 20 performances ended without handing out awards in a number of categories, however, including for Artist of the Year, which for the first time was an all-women slate including Swift, Shakira and Beyonce. Lil Wayne opened the show in a nod to this year's 50th anniversary of hip hop, and Sean Combs -- known by his stage names Puff Daddy, Puffy, P. Diddy and Diddy -- delivered a career-spanning performance as he accepted the night's Global Icon lifetime achievement award. "This is so surreal," said the 53-year-old from Harlem. "I started out as a paper boy." [caption id="attachment_183305" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] Colombian singer Shakira performs onstage during the MTV Video Music Awards at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, on 12 September 2023. (Photo by Timothy A. CLARY / AFP)[/caption] And it was Shakira who scored the night's most prestigious honor for lifetime achievement, the Video Vanguard award that celebrates music video innovations. The Colombian performer, 46, stole the show as she performed her signature hip swings and pops, singing a bilingual medley including "She Wolf," "Te Felicito," "Objection (Tango)," "Whenever, Wherever" and "Hips Don't Lie." Wearing a glittering, nude ensemble, the artist finished her set by crowd-surfing to a platform that then elevated her high above a screaming crowd of fans and peers. "Thank you MTV. Thank you for being such a big part of my career since I was only 18 years old," she said. Afrobeats and Bongos Rapper Nicki Minaj hosted the event for the second consecutive year, also debuting live her newest single, "Last Time I Saw You," which is slated for release on her album "Pink Friday 2" in November. She won the night's award for Best Hip Hop, for "Super Freaky Girl." [caption id="attachment_183306" align="aligncenter" width="1707"] US rapper and singer Nicki Minaj arrives for the MTV Video Music Awards at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, on 12 September 2023. (Photo by ANGELA WEISS / AFP)[/caption] Minaj also participated in the evening's tribute to five decades of hip hop, which also saw Lil Wayne return to the stage for a medley performance that included pioneers Doug E. Fresh and Slick Rick, LL Cool J, DMC of Run-DMC, and Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five. Earlier Doja Cat ignited the crowd as she performed a medley of "Attention," "Paint The Town Red" and "Demons," donning a sexy skirtsuit situation she slowly loosened as she danced, meanwhile unfurling a long blonde mane. Best R&B went to SZA, who did not attend, while South Korea's Stray Kids won the award for Best K-pop and later performed. Nigeria's Rema won the prize for Best Afrobeats, a new category, for his remixed single "Calm Down" featuring Selena Gomez. The song surpassed a billion streams on Spotify over the weekend. "This means so much seeing Afrobeats grow this big," Rema said while accepting the trophy. Brazil's Anitta dropped a booty-shaking dance party of a show with hits including "Funk Rave," which earned the evening's prize for Best Latin. Colombian Karol G was also among the evening's top performers, and she scored a prize with Shakira for Best Collaboration. Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion debuted their live performance of "Bongos," their latest collaboration that follows the resounding success of "WAP." Cardi entered the stage from the ceiling on a disco ball, her hair in loose waves a la Donna Summer. Megan joined her from another stage, and after their respective verses the pair led the audience through a high-energy, twerkified dance breakdown. Pop-punk band Fallout Boy rounded out the millennial nostalgia tour that began the night with NSYNC. The emo rockers performed their updated version of Billy Joel's "We Didn't Start The Fire," hitting major moments of the past three decades in a revamp that includes the line: "YouTube killed MTV." The post Taylor Swift, Shakira shine at MTV Video Music Awards appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gauff defeats Sabalenka to win US Open crown
American teenager Coco Gauff came from behind to win the US Open on Saturday, clinching her first Grand Slam title with a battling win over Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus. Gauff, 19, produced a gutsy performance on the Arthur Ashe Stadium court to win 2-6, 6-3, 6-2 in 2hr 6min to complete a fairytale transformation in her season's fortunes. The sixth seed from Florida had gone into the final as the underdog against the hard-hitting second seed Sabalenka, who will become world number one in next week's rankings. But with both players making a slew of mistakes throughout an error-strewn final watched by a record crowd of 28,143 it was Gauff who held her nerve when it mattered to seal a deserved victory. The win completed a remarkable turnaround for Gauff, who was left distraught after a first round exit at Wimbledon in July. However she bounced back to win titles in Washington and Cincinnati and has now landed the biggest win of her career, after a shattering loss at the French Open last year. "It means so much to me," an elated Gauff said afterwards. "I feel like I'm a little bit in shock in this moment. "That French Open loss (last year) was a heartbreak for me. That makes this moment even sweeter than I could imagine." Gauff, the third American teenager to win the US Open after Tracy Austin and Serena Williams, also used her victory speech to thank those who doubted her talent. "Honestly thank you to the people who didn't believe in me," she joked. "To those who thought they were putting water on my fire, they were putting gas on my fire and I'm burning so bright right now." - First set struggle - Gauff was in trouble in the opening game, Sabalenka breaking her straight away with a rasping backhand that drew a roar of "Come On!" from the Belarusian. She held easily to take a 2-0 lead but Gauff then took advantage of a shaky service game from Sabalenka to break at 2-2 in the fourth. The Belarusian double-faulted twice to allow Gauff to get back on level terms. But that hard-won parity was surrendered in the next game as Sabalenka broke back to go 3-2 ahead. Sabalenka then wobbled on her own serve once more as Gauff eked out two break points in the sixth game. But Sabalenka got it back to deuce with an ace and then took a 4-2 lead with an emphatic smash. Gauff's problems on serve continued and Sabalenka broke for the third time to race 5-2 ahead, and she duly wrapped up the set by holding in the next game. Yet with the match threatening to become a rout, Gauff finally clicked into gear in the second set, making fewer unforced errors and ironing out the kinks in her serve. Instead it was Sabalenka who began to show signs of brittleness as the tension mounted. She double-faulted to hand Gauff the only break of the set and a 3-1 lead. Gauff fended off a break point in the next game to hold for 4-1 and went on to hold for the remainder of the set to level the match when Sabalenka smacked a forehand long. The momentum remained firmly with Gauff in the final set and she secured another crucial break in the opening game when she put away an underhit Sabalenka lob with a smash. Gauff then held easily for a 2-0 lead as Sabalenka struggled to regain any semblance of composure. She coughed up four unforced errors to gift Gauff a break and a 3-0 lead, and the American then held with ease to go 4-0 up. Sabalenka stopped the rot by holding serve in the fifth game, before taking a medical timeout to receive treatment on her left thigh. Gauff was in no mood to let her grip on the match slip though. Although Sabalenka held and broke Gauff to cut the lead to 4-2, Gauff hit back when Sabalenka double-faulted to present a break point. Gauff cashed in to break and grab a 5-2 lead and then swept to victory in the next game, holding to love with a backhand winner. rcw/mw © Agence France-Presse The post Gauff defeats Sabalenka to win US Open crown appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Harvard welcomes Cavite teacher as first Phl language instructor
After nearly 400 years since its founding, the prestigious Harvard University has named its first-ever Filipino language instructor. [caption id="attachment_181411" align="aligncenter" width="1588"] LADY Aileen Orsal | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF FB.COM/LADY AILEEN ORSAL[/caption] Lady Aileen Orsal, who used to teach at Cavite State University, is now the university’s first preceptor for its Filipino language course. She will be teaching elementary and intermediate Filipino (Tagalog) beginning of Fall 2023. “Gayunpaman, naniniwala akong maliit na bahagi lamang ako ng istorya at ang pagkakataong maituro ito ay bunga ng pagsisikap ng mga taong patuloy na inadhika na magkaroon ng mayaman at makabuluhang programa ng Filipino sa pamantasan. Ang pagpupunyagi nila ang tunay na nais kong ibida. Kasama na rito ang pagsaludo sa lahat ng mga gurong Pilipino at guro ng/sa Filipino sa loob at labas ng bansa partikular na ang mga guro ko sa CvSU at DLSU at sa mga kaibigan at mentor ko na guro sa NIU at iba pang pamantasan sa Estados Unidos na dahilan kung bakit patuloy akong natututo sa mga istratehiya sa pagtuturo ng ating wika at kultura (However, I believe that I am only a small part of the story, the opportunity to teach the result of the effort of people who have continuously strived to have a rich and meaningful Filipino program in the university. Their efforts are what I really want to highlight. This includes saluting all Filipino teachers inside and outside the country, especially my teachers at CvSU and DLSU and my friends and mentors who are teachers at NIU and other universities in the United States — the reason why I continue to learn from strategies in teaching our language and culture),” she wrote on Facebook. Orsal said she’s currently preparing for the classes, saying that “mas marami tayong maibabahaging kwento sa hinaharap kapag handa na ako at may mga magagandang bunga na ang programa na nais nating payabungin (we’ll have more stories to share in the future when I’m ready, hoping for the program will yield good results).” She dedicates this milestone “#parasabayan” while hoping that Filipinos “will continue to honor being Filipino in every corner of the world.” Orsal demonstrates an impressive background in Philippine Studies, and has conducted research and published several works on traditional tattoo art, the country’s coffee culture, and the use of music in political campaign jingles. “Lady Aileen is a dedicated, creative and effective teacher who is committed to being a leader in Filipino language pedagogy. We also look forward to working with her to develop, highlight and showcase the richness and variety of the history and cultures of the Philippines through events on the Harvard campus,” said James Robson, Victor and William Fung director at Harvard University Asia Center. Orsal’s teaching career began as a Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant at the Center of Southeast Asian Studies at Northern Illinois University in 2018. She is currently completing two degrees: an MA in Communication from Northern Illinois University and a PhD in Philippine Studies from De La Salle University in the Philippines, both expected to be completed next year. Apart from Orsal, Harvard also welcomed Sakti Suryani as a preceptor from Indonesia. Harvard will also offer elementary, intermediate and advanced Indonesian courses at the beginning of its fall term. According to the Harvard University Asia Center, Filipino (or Tagalog) is the fourth most-spoken language in the United States, after English, Spanish and Chinese. The post Harvard welcomes Cavite teacher as first Phl language instructor appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘All Star’ Smash Mouth frontman Steve Harwell dies at 56
Steve Harwell, the former lead vocalist of the American rock band Smash Mouth, has passed away at age 56. His manager, Robert Hayes, announced in a statement that Harwell died “peacefully and comfortably” at his home in Boise, Idaho, surrounded by his family and friends. He died of acute liver failure on 4 September. A day before his death, it was announced that Harwell was receiving hospice care for final-stage chronic liver failure and only had a few days to live. Harwell’s musical career began when he played in a rap group called F.O.S (Freedom of Speech). Later on, Smash Mouth was formed along with drummer Kevin Coleman, whom he met in 1990, guitarist Greg Camp and bassist Paul De Lisle. Rock music While largely performing rock music during their earlier years, record labels saw the group’s potential after a demo of their song “Nervous in the Alley” was played at a local radio station. After signing with Interscope Records, they released their debut album, Fush Yu Mang, in 1997. A ska, reggae, pup-punk album that includes their first major hit, “Walkin’ on the Sun,” which has a distinctive, psychedelic soul and soul-funk music style. Their sophomore album, Astro Lounge, became a global success and one of their most critically acclaimed albums. It included the band’s biggest single, “All Star,” which was frequently featured in films like Inspector Gadget (1999), Mystery Men (1999), Digimon: The Movie (200), Rat Race (2001) and Shrek (2001). “All Star” also earned its first Grammy nomination for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. The Grammy-nominated rock band released five more studio albums in the following years: Smash Mouth (2001), Get the Picture? (2003), The Gift of Rock (2005), Summer Girl (2006) and Magic (2012). Amid his band’s skyrocketing popularity, Harwell’s son, Presley, died in 2001 from acute lymphocytic leukemia. His son was only six months old. Health issues The former rock singer had been battling numerous health issues. In 2013, he was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, a heart condition that can lead to heart failure; and acute Wernicke encephalopathy, a neurological disease that impairs speech, memory and muscle coordination. The “All Star” singer also struggled with alcoholism throughout his adult life. Harwell announced his retirement from the band in 2021 over ongoing physical and mental health issues. With the band’s iconic ‘90s legacy and Harwell’s unique music influence, the rock singer lived a “100-percent full-throttle life. Burning brightly across the universe before burning out,” said Hayes. Smash Mouth’s official Instagram account paid tribute to Harwell: “Steve Harwell was a true American Original. A larger-than-life character who shot up into the sky like a Roman candle. Steve should be remembered for his unwavering focus and impassioned determination to reach the heights of pop stardom.” The post ‘All Star’ Smash Mouth frontman Steve Harwell dies at 56 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Jaime Gubaton diverts from usual style to relay urgent message
In this era of constant waste and ruin, “Foiled” serves as a reminder of the dangers of mindless consumerism and its deadly consequences on the environment. Presented by Arte Bettina, the solo exhibition of Filipino visual artist Jaime Gubaton is on view from 30 August to 12 September at the ArtistSpace, located at the ground level of Ayala Museum Annex, Makati Avenue corner Dela Rosa Street, Greenbelt Park, Makati City. Gubaton, a veteran artist with the burning enthusiasm of a student, considers artmaking a continuous process — a cycle of retaining, changing and revisiting. Born in 1981, he is an artist who mainly works with oil painting and contemporary figures and portraits juxtaposed with various elements, some linear and graphic representations, with the use of appropriated materials that are borrowed from a day-to-day context. Gubaton considers making art a craft that is executed using clear formal rules and that always refers to social reality. His works are notable for their perfect finish and tactile nature. This is of great importance and bears witness to great craftsmanship. The style and the corresponding vision of the artist naturally evolve and mature, but there is something in the initial creative impulse that continues to be sustained through their works, whether it is a preferential treatment of color, a recurring image or a conspicuously revisited subject matter. In the case of Gubaton, now considered one of the most sought-after artists working today, an emphasis on certain qualities of the Filipino identity can be discerned, even if he has fully ventured into photorealistic depictions of portraits. His formal arts education began at the University of the East in Caloocan, where he majored in advertising. He was already winning major art competitions while still in college. In 2002, he won the grand prize for both the PLDT-DPC Directory Cover National Competition and Art Petron, which influenced him to pursue a career as a painter. Art competitions served as his early training ground for painting until he was invited to participate in several art exhibits by various galleries both locally and internationally. [gallery columns="2" size="full" ids="179672,179671"] [gallery size="full" columns="2" ids="179670,179669"] “My artistic journey is a learning process that enables me to improve my skills and techniques. It opens opportunities for me to better appreciate the history and culture of the world. Allow yourself to grow at your own pace. Don’t rush the process,” Gubaton said. Despite being a firm believer in the foundational skills of art, he centers his practice on experimentation and polishes his skills by regularly stepping away from routine — a feat many shy away from due to human nature’s fear of the uncertain. “Foiled” showcases this as he deviates from human portraiture and instead breathes nature and its pollutants onto a dark canvas. As much as “Foiled” has prevention at its core, Gubaton weaves the multiplicity of his concept into the composition of his works. His paintings take inspiration from a foiling technique seen in jewelry making and mimics its principle of using foil to further emphasize its symbolism, spotlighting his subjects onto an almost black base. There is no mistaking the message of his show, and that is intentional. He is blunt in his execution and his intentions could easily be received at a glance. Nature is in danger, and its stewards have become its executioners. Gubaton takes this opportunity to champion what he has always implemented in his act of creation, a willingness to change. ArtistSpace, an art gallery established in 2004, is dedicated to the promotion of contemporary visual arts featuring a wide range of styles and media from local and foreign artists in two-week exhibitions. The gallery is open daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Admission is free. For queries on the exhibition, contact Arte Bettina at 905-2696095, 27004-3209 or artebettinagallery@gmail.com. For more information on ArtistSpace, contact Jane Salvador at 917-8264425 or hello@artistspace.org.ph. The post Jaime Gubaton diverts from usual style to relay urgent message appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Serve with dedication, integrity, gov’t workers told
Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo strongly reminded those in government that “public service is demanding but it is rewarding when done with utmost dedication and integrity.” “It is only through this that we will realize that all the long hours we put in, all the sacrifices that we and our family have endured, have all been for a higher meaning and purpose,” Gesmundo said. “No matter what our position, when we do our work well, we do something good for the public,” he added. Gesmundo and the other justices of the SC lauded CA Presiding Justice Remedios Salazar-Fernando for exemplary work during her 70th birthday on 1 September, her retirement age. Gesmundo hailed Salazar-Fernando for her exemplary work in the various institutions she had served in her long and storied career in government. Joining Gesmundo on the occasion are Supreme Court Associate Justices Ramon Paul L. Hernando, Amy C. Lazaro-Javier, Henri Jean Paul B. Inting, Samuel H. Gaerlan, Jhosep Y. Lopez, Japar B. Dimaampao, Jose Midas P. Marquez and Antonio T. Kho Jr. PJ Salazar-Fernando, or “PJ Mids” as she is fondly called, began her 50-year service to the public as a law clerk in the Supreme Court. She went on to serve as a supervising presidential staff in the Presidential Management Staff of the Office of the President. She then returned to the Judiciary with her appointment as Municipal Trial Court Judge of Sta. Rita, Pampanga in 1983 and served as Acting MTC Judge of Lubao the following year. President Corazon C. Aquino appointed her Chairperson of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board in 1987 and served as an Assistant Secretary of the Land Transportation Office in a concurrent capacity in 1991. PJ Mids was appointed Commissioner of the Commission on Elections in 1992. She returned to the Judiciary again with her appointment as an Associate Justice of the CA on 25 May 1999. On 25 November 2020, she was appointed Presiding Justice by President Rodrigo R. Duterte. The post Serve with dedication, integrity, gov’t workers told appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Margaritaville’ singer Jimmy Buffett dies at 76
American singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett, best known for his 1977 hit "Margaritaville," has died at age 76, according to a statement on his website. "Jimmy passed away peacefully on the night of September 1st surrounded by his family, friends, music and dogs," the statement said. "He lived his life like a song till the very last breath and will be missed beyond measure by so many." The statement did not include a cause of death. Buffett's classic chill-out anthem "Margaritaville," about beachfront living with a drink in hand, spent 22 weeks on the Billboard chart, and helped launch his decades-long music career and a business empire. Known as the "Mayor of Margaritaville," he released nearly 30 studio albums of country, folk and tropical tunes, and also launched a line of resorts, restaurants and retail stores that capitalized on his laid-back, escapist image. Born December 25, 1946, in the US state of Mississippi and raised in Alabama, Buffett began playing guitar in college and later started performing on the streets and in the clubs of New Orleans, according to his website. He released his first record "Down to Earth" in 1970, and a year later traveled to Key West, Florida, a place that became synonymous with Buffett's paradise-themed music and lifestyle brands. Buffett also penned bestselling books, appeared in movies and on television, and had a brief Broadway run with his musical "Escape to Margaritaville." But his signature song -- and its refrain: "Wastin' away again in Margaritaville, searchin' for my lost shaker of salt" -- is what his legions of fans and beach holidaymakers remember most. "There are people out there looking for a good time for a few days a year," Buffett told Rolling Stone magazine in 1996, referring to his fans, known as "Parrotheads." "We come to town and we're the carnival or the Mardi Gras. People blow off steam and then go back and become basically law-abiding citizens," he said. "But to see them on those two days, you'd go, 'My God, this is the most drunk and boisterous maniac crowd you ever saw!'" "Rest in power @jimmybuffett," rapper LL Cool J wrote Saturday on social media platform X. "I'm glad we had time to vibe. You were and always will be a Truly inspiring human." Former US senator from Alabama Doug Jones said he was sad to hear of Buffet's death. "Following the election in 2017 he serenaded us in Key West with 'Stars Fell on Alabama,'" Jones posted on social media platform X, referring to Buffet's 1981 song. "He lived life to the fullest and the world will miss him." Buffett was preparing to release a new record this year, according to his website. sco/leg © Agence France-Presse The post ‘Margaritaville’ singer Jimmy Buffett dies at 76 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
TXT confirms October comeback
Tomorrow X Together or TXT recently has revealed their anticipated comeback, which is scheduled for October 2023. The K-pop group will unveil their third full-length album, The Name Chapter: FREEFALL, on 13 October at 1 p.m. KST. This announcement came alongside the release of a teaser video showcasing the album. Pre-orders for the album began on 30 August. TXT is a five-piece band that is a part of Bighit Music under HYBE. After a nine-month hiatus following the release of their fifth mini album, The Name Chapter: Temptation, in January 2023, they will be making a comeback with this upcoming album. During this period, TXT remained active. They released a song called “Goodbye Now” for the webcomic Love Revolution, and they were the first K-pop group to perform as the headliners at Lollapalooza. Additionally, they started their second global tour, Act: Sweet Mirage, in March 2023. They released their second Japanese album, Sweet, in July and were awarded Gold certification in the United States for their album The Name Chapter: TEMPTATION. More success came their way in August when they were named Dior brand ambassadors. Additionally, Disney+ hosted the world premiere of their documentary, Tomorrow X Together: Our Lost Summer, which affords viewers a look inside TXT’s career by presenting their Lollapalooza performances, US concerts and member interviews. The post TXT confirms October comeback appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»