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Simply the best: Rock queen Tina Turner has died at 83

Rock legend Tina Turner, the growling songstress who electrified audiences for decades, has died at the age of 83, a statement said Wednesday. "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tina Turner," read the statement on the official Instagram page of the eight-time Grammy winner. "With her music and her boundless passion for life, she enchanted millions of fans around the world and inspired the stars of tomorrow. "Today we say goodbye to a dear friend who leaves us all her greatest work: her music. All our heartfelt compassion goes out to her family. "Tina, we will miss you dearly." Turner, who had been living in Switzerland in her final years, first encountered fame with her husband Ike Turner. The pair recorded a number of hits together throughout the 1960s and 1970s, in a musical partnership in which she was clearly the more talented. After their troubled and violent marriage collapsed -- she fled in 1976 mid-tour -- Tina Turner forged a wildly successful solo career. The following decades gifted the world instantly recognizable hits like "What's Love Got to Do With It?", "Private Dancer" and the anthemic "The Best". Her "We Don't Need Another Hero" featured on the soundtrack to "Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome," the 1985 post-apocalyptic thriller starring Mel Gibson. A decade later she oozed her way through "Goldeneye," joining the select ranks of artists who have sung in the James Bond franchise. The post Simply the best: Rock queen Tina Turner has died at 83 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»

Category: newsSource: tribune tribuneMay 24th, 2023

Proud Tina: Tributes pour in for Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll

She clawed her way to superstardom from a poor farming town in Nutbush, Tennessee, and fought through an abusive marriage armed only with exceptional talent and a heart that refused to become a victim. Anna Mae Bullock, better known as Tina Turner — the name given her by discoverer and husband-abuser Ike Turner — passed on Wednesday at 83 in Switzerland where she had bought a $76 million waterfront villa. Throughout that remarkable journey, it’s only fair to assume that Turner didn’t really mean it when she questioned what love’s got to do with it. Because love is what’s she’s reaping, even more in death. Celebrities from show business, politics and even sports led the outpouring of affection for the woman who said: “We don’t need another hero,” because, after all, she already found the “hero” in herself. “She is our forever goddess of rock ‘n’ roll who contained a magnitude of inner strength that grew throughout her life. She was a role model not only for me but for the world. She encouraged a part of me I didn’t know existed... She was indeed simply the best,” said Oprah Winfrey on her Instagram. Beyoncé, whose electricity onstage harks to that of Turner during her heyday in the 1980s, offered these words: “My beloved Queen. I love you endlessly. I’m so grateful for your inspiration, and all the ways you have paved the way. You are strength and resilience. You are the epitome of power and passion.” Contemporaries like Dionne Warwick expressed both sadness and awe at Turner’s passing. “Another longtime friend has made her transition,” she wrote. “Not only will I miss that eternal ball of energy named Tina Turner but the entire world will also find this void in their lives. My condolences to her husband and other members of her family. Rest in Peace my friend.” “The words legendary, iconic, diva and superstar are often overused and yet Tina Turner embodies them all and so many more — an incredible performer, musician and trailblazer. To me, she will always be a survivor and an inspiration to women everywhere. Her music will continue to inspire generations to come. Rest in Peace, Queen,” wrote Mariah Carey on Twitter. Angela Bassett, who played Tina Turner in the 1993 film What’s Love Got to Do With It and earned an Oscar nomination for her performance, wrote on Instagram: “How do we say farewell to a woman who owned her pain and trauma and used it as a means to help change the world?... I am honored to have known Tina Turner. I am humbled to have helped show her to the world.“ Turner, whose massive hits included the 1984 number-one hit “What’s Love Got to Do With It?” as well as “Private Dancer,” “The Best” and “Proud Mary” (which she did with Ike), transcended the worlds of music and entertainment. Basketball great Earvin “Magic” Johnson’s tribute read: “Rest in peace to one of my favorite artists of all time, the legendary queen of rock ‘n’ roll Tina Turner. I’ve seen her many many times and hands down, she gave one of the best live shows I’ve ever seen. She always gave you your money‘s worth.” Three United States presidents also applauded the legend who will be remembered for her singular voice as well as her cropped jean jackets, mini skirts, stiletto heels and that shock of hair. “In addition to being a once-in-a-generation talent that changed American music forever, Tina’s personal strength was remarkable. Overcoming adversity, and even abuse, she built a career for the ages and a life and legacy that were entirely hers,” wrote President Joe Biden. Former president Bill Clinton wrote: “I love Tina Turner and will never forget meeting her when she came to Little Rock for a concert after releasing the Private Dancer in 1984. We met again on her 67th birthday in St. Petersburg… She still had it — talent, style, energy and authenticity — a priceless gift to music lovers everywhere.” And for former president Barack Obama: “Tina Turner was raw. She was powerful. She was unstoppable. And she was unapologetically herself — speaking and singing her truth through joy and pain; triumph and tragedy. Today we join fans around the world in honoring the Queen of Rock and Roll, and a star whose light will never fade.” The post Proud Tina: Tributes pour in for Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»

Category: newsSource:  tribuneRelated NewsMay 25th, 2023

Simply the best : Stars mourn passing of rock queen Tina Turner

Legendary singer Tina Turner passed away at the age of 83 earlier today......»»

Category: entertainmentSource:  philstarRelated NewsMay 25th, 2023

Tina Turner pumanaw na sa edad 83, mga pakikiramay bumuhos sa socmed

PUMANAW na ang binansagang “Queen of Rock ‘n Roll” na si Tina Turner sa edad 83. Ayon sa kanyang representative, mapayapang pumanaw ang iconic singer sa kanyang bahay sa Zurich, Switzerland nitong May 24. Para sa mga hindi pa masyadong aware, nagsimula si Tina sa kanyang karera noong 1950s. Ito ‘yung mga panahon na nag-uumpisa […] The post Tina Turner pumanaw na sa edad 83, mga pakikiramay bumuhos sa socmed appeared first on Bandera......»»

Category: newsSource:  inquirerRelated NewsMay 25th, 2023

Sweden throws royal bash for king’s golden jubilee

Sweden celebrates the 50th anniversary of King Carl XVI Gustaf's reign with pomp and circumstance on Friday and Saturday, with a gala banquet, street parties and a procession through central Stockholm. The 77-year-old king was the world's youngest monarch when he came to the throne aged 27 in 1973 after the death of his grandfather Gustaf VI Adolf. The two days of festivities will be attended by foreign dignitaries as well as hundreds of thousands of people who are expected to line the capital's streets to catch a glimpse of the king and Queen Silvia in a cortege on Saturday. Several of the festivities will be broadcast live on television to Sweden's 10 million inhabitants. "It's an intense week," palace spokeswoman Margareta Thorgren told AFP, adding that preparations have been underway for several years. On Friday, a Te Deum church service will be held at the Royal Chapel attended by the royal family, other Nordic royals and heads of state, as well as Swedish political leaders, followed by a gala banquet hosted by the king at the palace. The highlight of the celebrations will be Saturday's afternoon cortege, when the royal couple will wave to the public from a horse-drawn carriage escorted by 3,000 troops from the army, navy and air force and military bands. The final leg of the procession will see the royal couple being rowed across the water in the royal barge to the steps below the palace in the Old Town. That will be followed by an outdoor concert nearby featuring several popular Swedish acts. Dancing in the streets As afternoon heads into evening, the city center will transform into a giant public dance floor, with DJs playing everything from boogie woogie to Cuban salsa, rock 'n' roll, disco and Swedish hits, and food trucks serving food and drinks. Several hundred thousand people are expected to turn out for Saturday's festivities, police spokeswoman Rebecca Landberg told AFP, comparing the event to the massive crowds that lined the streets for Crown Princess Victoria's 2010 wedding. "It feels really exciting," said Jenny Schannong, a 53-year-old medical secretary who plans to be in place early Saturday to get a good viewing spot for the cortege. "It'll be cool to experience this in my lifetime... I was just a little baby when he became king, I was three years old so I don't really remember that," she said. However, the celebrations are taking place under heightened security, after Sweden last month raised its terror alert level following a spate of Koran burnings that have angered the Muslim world. Carl Gustaf XVI is the longest reigning monarch in Sweden's history. Born on April 30, 1946, Carl Gustaf Folke Hubertus Bernadotte was only nine months old when his father, Prince Gustaf Adolf, died in a plane crash in Denmark. He grew up with four older sisters and an often-absent mother -- Princess Sibylla of Sachsen-Coburg-Gotha -- before becoming king in 1973. He is the European monarch with the second-longest reign, behind his cousin Queen Margrethe of Denmark who took the throne in 1972. Popular despite sex scandals Despite occasional scandals -- the biggest when a 2010 book alleged he frequented sex clubs and had numerous affairs -- the king still enjoys broad support. A poll this month in Swedish newspaper Dagens Nyheter said 62 percent of Swedes were in favor of the monarchy, a level that has remained stable over two decades. The king's role has been purely ceremonial since constitutional reform in 1974. The palace has remained tightlipped on the cost of the weekend festivities. "It's a public celebration and the costs will be detailed in a report to be published in April," palace spokeswoman Margareta Thorgren said. This year also marks the 500th anniversary of the reign of Gustav Vasa, Sweden's first king elected in 1523, ending the Kalmar Union that joined the three Scandinavian kingdoms under a single monarchy from 1397. The post Sweden throws royal bash for king’s golden jubilee appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»

Category: lifestyleSource:  abscbnRelated NewsSep 15th, 2023

London Fashion Week throws spotlight on young designers

After New York, the fashion world descends on London from Friday, showcasing big names such as Burberry but also the work of young designers who could become household names of the future. Last year's event, billed as a comeback after disruption due to the Covid pandemic, was overshadowed by the death of Queen Elizabeth II and 10 days of national mourning. This year, more than 80 designers are set to present their spring/summer 2024 collections, with around 50 catwalk shows and other presentations. "It's going to be five really exciting days full of creativity," said Caroline Rush, chief executive of organizers the British Fashion Council (BFC). Fashion bible Vogue rolled out the red carpet on Thursday night for a gala launch event. But in the world of fashion, London is enduring a post-Covid slump, with inflation -- the highest in the G7 at 6.8 percent in July -- and Brexit combining to create a depressed economic backdrop. That has left the British capital trailing Paris, Milan, and New York in the fashion week stakes. In a sign of its loss of influence, even British former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham has crossed the Channel to present her designs in Paris since last year. Fresh UK funding On Wednesday, the UK government announced £2 million ($2.5 million) to support young designers, which will go to the BFC's existing NewGen program. The scheme, which over the last 30 years has supported the best young fashion designers, aims to launch the high-end global brands of tomorrow. The UK government funding will go towards the staging of five fashion weeks over two years, said the BFC. Previous recipients include the legendary Alexander McQueen, who died in 2010. On Saturday, the Design Museum in London is presenting an exhibition celebrating young NewGen talents, and the energy they have brought to the industry. "REBEL: 30 Years of London Fashion" showcases about 100 designs, some of which have gone down in pop culture history. This year, about 20 designers are benefiting from the NewGen program. Most are recent graduates, but who have already managed to dress some of the biggest stars. Outfits by Ukrainian designer Masha Popova have been worn by singer Dua Lipa. Di Petsa has dressed actress Zendaya. Among the more established names are 16Arlington, JW Anderson, Molly Goddard, Richard Quinn, Roksanda, and Simone Rocha. But Burberry, the London fashion house founded in 1856, remains the most eagerly awaited show. It takes place on Monday afternoon and will be only the second collection for British creative director Daniel Lee, following on from his February show. The ex-Bottega Veneta designer replaced Riccardo Tisci a year ago. Sales have soared in China for the brand with the distinctive check print. On the final day, Tuesday, Ukrainian designers will present their collections, with London once again hosting Ukrainian Fashion Week due to Russia's invasion. The BFC is also trying to make London an increasingly inclusive venue for catwalk shows. It has launched a survey aimed at all those working in the sector, with questions on their gender, sexual orientation, religion, and social background. "The audit is long overdue and marks the first step towards the vital measurement of the UK fashion industry's collective progress towards the goal of fair representation," the BFC said. The results will be announced later this year. Another must-see fashion event in London is the exhibition "Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto", which opens on Saturday at the V&A museum. It retraces the 60-year career of "Coco" Chanel, featuring some of her greatest creations that revolutionized women's wardrobes. (AFP Photos) [caption id="attachment_184160" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Canadian model Winnie Harlow poses upon arrival to attend the "Vogue World: London" event at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in central London on the eve of London Fashion Week on 14 September 2023. (Photo by HENRY NICHOLLS / AFP)[/caption] [caption id="attachment_184161" align="aligncenter" width="525"] British model Jodie Turner-Smith poses upon arrival to attend the "Vogue World: London" event at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in central London on the eve of London Fashion Week on 14 September 2023. (Photo by HENRY NICHOLLS / AFP)[/caption] [caption id="attachment_184162" align="aligncenter" width="525"] British model Georgia May Jagger poses upon arrival to attend the "Vogue World: London" event at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in central London on the eve of London Fashion Week on 14 September 2023. (Photo by HENRY NICHOLLS / AFP)[/caption] [caption id="attachment_184163" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Irish writer Sinead Burke poses upon arrival to attend the "Vogue World: London" event at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in central London on the eve of London Fashion Week on 14 September 2023. (Photo by HENRY NICHOLLS / AFP)[/caption] [caption id="attachment_184164" align="aligncenter" width="525"] British actress Simone Ashley poses upon arrival to attend the "Vogue World: London" event at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in central London on the eve of London Fashion Week on 14 September 2023. (Photo by HENRY NICHOLLS / AFP)[/caption] The post London Fashion Week throws spotlight on young designers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»

Category: newsSource:  tribuneRelated NewsSep 15th, 2023

Thousands of Freddie Mercury’s personal items go on sale

A sale of thousands of items belonging to the charismatic Queen frontman Freddie Mercury got under way Wednesday in London, with the graffiti-covered green door of Mercury's home first to go under the hammer. The door of his Garden Lodge home in west London sold for £412,750 ($516,000) including buyer's premium and fees -- far in excess of the £15,000-25,000 estimate. Other items up for grabs at the Sotheby's auction range from manuscripts of Queen's biggest hits to furniture, paintings and knick-knacks. Among the highlights of Wednesday's "evening sale", which will be followed by two other live auctions and three online sales over the next week, is Mercury's piano. The Yamaha quarter-tail piano was bought by Mercury in 1975 and was used to create almost all of his greatest songs. It is expected to sell for £2 million-£3 million ($2.5 million-$3.75 million). Also on sale is the original manuscript for epic hit "Bohemian Rhapsody", whose 15 pages of pencil and ballpoint pen remarks reveal the different directions Mercury envisaged for the track. It also reveals that it was originally going to be called "Mongolian Rhapsody". Part of the proceeds will be donated to the Mercury Phoenix Trust and the Elton John Aids Foundation, two organisations involved in the fight against AIDS. In a message read out before the auction began by auctioneer Oliver Barker, John paid tribute to his friend. "I miss Freddie to this day. He was a wonderful friend more full of love and life than anyone I've ever met, as well as a brilliant performer whose music has inspired and thrilled millions," he said. "He was kind, generous and funny and it is a tragedy that AIDS took him from the world much too soon," he added. Auction fan  Paintings by Chagall, Dali and Picasso that adorned Mercury's home, as well as the last painting he bought a month before his death from AIDS in 1991  -- an oil on canvas by James Jacques Joseph Tissot -- are also going under the hammer. The entire collection is being offered for sale by Mary Austin, a close friend and one-time fiancee of Mercury's. "Mary Austin has lived with the collection and has cared for the collection for more than three decades," Gabriel Heaton, a books and manuscripts specialist at Sotheby's, told AFP. Mercury "was not interested in having a museum of his life but he loved auctions", to the point of being a regular at Sotheby's sales, said Heaton. Austin believes the artist -- who was 45 when he died -- would have "loved" this sale, he added. Some 1,469 lots are going under the hammer at the famous London auction house, whose facade has been decorated with a huge moustache for the occasion. Many reveal another side of Mercury, including his passion for cats and for Japan -- as evidenced by his collection of kimonos and prints. Moustache comb  Mercury's most flamboyant stage costumes, Hawaiian shirt and Superman tank top will also find new homes along with his personal polaroids and legendary snapper Mick Rock's shots. The finest bottles from his cellar, such as Dom Perignon champagne, are up for grabs alongside more intimate items, such as a book of personally annotated poetry and a moustache comb. Among the more playful items are a set of games including travel Scrabble, at which Mercury excelled. Before the sale, the auction house hosted the collection at a month-long exhibition, open to the public free of charge. Sotheby's estimated when the auction was announced in April that the lots would fetch at least £6 million. The auction house says it is the largest collection, by volume, of a cultural icon to go to auction since the Elton John sale in 1988, when 2,000 lots sold for a total of £4.8 million. The post Thousands of Freddie Mercury’s personal items go on sale appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»

Category: newsSource:  tribuneRelated NewsSep 6th, 2023

Love story

Dishonest love is the darkness deeply rooted in the outrage over the promotional video of Tourism’s troubled new slogan. Dishonest love fuels everyone’s raving anger spasms over the two-minute-long tepid — as in like a senior Tourism student’s thesis project — though still dreamy love video featuring the country’s popular travel sights completely ruined by footage of four tourist sites found in other countries. Lies then shape the promo video in a clear case of, “Darling, I’m a nightmare dressed like a daydream,” as one of the most-Taylor-Swift-sounding lyrics goes. By the way, there’s nothing frivolous about referencing Ms. Swift and the tourism fiasco. “Love” is the cheeky theme of the latest slogan and there’s no other 21st-century personality other than pop superstar Ms. Swift and her hugely influential songs of doomed love and heartaches (or at least that’s what my daughters tell me since I’m not a “Swiftie”) to access notions of nervy postmodernist love. Anyway, information is scanty about who in the ad agency DDB Philippines or its contractor sneaked into the lies. What we only know is that the video, exposed by a blogger and subsequently fact-checked by an international news agency, brought Tourism bureaucrats frequent migraine flashes. Still, as things stand, the besotted affair insinuates its makers’ cynical feelings about their task of commanding foreigners and Filipinos alike to love the country. In the case of their cynical feelings, it’s starkly summed up whenever one hears Ms. Swift singing: “And the saddest fear/Comes creepin’ in/That you never loved me/Or her/Or anyone/Or anything.” Despite that, we can still be charitably human enough to say the video makers were probably at their wit’s end chasing a tight deadline, prompting the commission of unforgivable fakery and lies. This, even as they insinuated their low opinion of their Tourism overseers’ critical faculties. For their risk, they lost all, profuse apologies failing to assuage. Meanwhile, the reviled video excited something else entirely — a wave of confessionals about loving the Philippines. As the fiasco unfolded, many well-meaning Filipinos, both here and abroad, confessed, “It’s difficult to love the Philippines.” The prophylactic sentiments, if anything, showed Filipinos aren’t zombies when they junked en masse the conformist injunction that to profess love for country, as one media analyst observed, is “to stand by it and close one’s eyes to whatever is wrong.” Still, despite the confessionals many somehow still heard Ms. Swift’s singing, “This love is difficult, but it’s real/Don’t be afraid, we’ll make it out of this mess.” Though some were thoroughly distressed that the Swiftian lyrics, “I screamed for whatever it’s worth/‘I love you,’ ain’t that the worst thing you ever heard?” became an anthem. Locals are markedly depressed and distressed. But we can only speculate what the internationally publicized humiliation does to the foreign tourist in perpetual search of a painless second adolescence. But I wouldn’t place too much stock on their feelings. The foreign tourist can just as well sing — not a Taylor Swift song this time — but the late sultry Tina Turner’s iconic rock ballad, “What’s Love Got to Do With It?” Turner’s ballad jettisoned other love songs fixating on enduring relationships and instead diabolically proscribes that purely sexual chemistry is pretty too. Carnality also informs love. Now doesn’t that hidden dimension color also many a foreign tourist’s pleasure-seeking short jaunt here? Still, another tributary flows from the love slogan. The cheeky slogan also marks and entices the modern Filipino migrant. Modern Filipino migration is germane to the love campaign because a good part of the flow of tourists coming here is made up of Filipino migrants — our tourist who is not a tourist — returning home for a vacation. In milking and profiting from the Filipino migrants’ or OFWs’ homesickness, the love campaign’s advisable jingle might as well be Ms. Swift’s lyric, “Please don’t ever become a stranger whose laugh I could recognize anywhere.” The post Love story appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»

Category: newsSource:  tribuneRelated NewsJul 8th, 2023

Tingting Cojuangco — Christian Espiritu’s ultimate muse

Through the years of Philippine fashion history, Margarita “Tingting” de los Reyes Cojuangco has always been known as the muse of the iconic Filipino designer Christian Espiritu who recently passed away. Theirs is a friendship that had stood the test of time. Tingting was named one of the 100 beautiful women of the world by the international magazine, Harper’s Bazaar, on the occasion of its 100 founding anniversary. During the early years of the 1970s, she made it to the Hall of Fame of Manila’s Best Dressed List, an annual selection initiated by the old guard of Philippine fashion, among them Ramon Valera, Salavacion Lim Higgins of Slim’s, Pilar Romack of New Yorker Gown Salon, and Imelda Reyes of Milie’s Gowns. In the 1980s, Tingting, who graced the social pages as a teenager and a young matron, transformed into a new woman, this time as a street activist braving the firecanons and tear gas, a Yellow campaigner in the South, and finally a graduate student and scholar specializing in the ethnic muslim communities of Cotabago and Zamboanga. She would cap this with a National Defense College master’s thesis on the then rebel Moro Islamic Liberation Front. Through it all, she kept her friendship with the man who first showed the world her potential. Christian saw in Tingting, this gangly   yet beautiful teenager, a lady worth grooming and turning into an icon of fashion. Tingting thus became Christian’s muse. Chosen by her mother and grandmother, Christian made her outfit for her high school prom at Maryknoll College. It was the beginning of a lifelong friendship and collaboration that would pass through social, political and economic upheavals in this country. No matter, they were constant in each other’s lives, not minding intrigues, the cycle of fortunes and The recent demise of her original mentor and designer, Christian, brought Tingting out of her reculsive and quiet life to share with the Daily Tribune her memories of the designer who streamline Filipiniana, incorporating his knowledge as a graduate of architecture. The interview with Tingting Cojuangco follows: “He launched my modeling career” Daily Tribune (DT): How did you meet Christian? Did you go to him for your teenage formal dresses, and not only during your wedding? Tingting delos Reyes Cojuangco (TRC): My mom and grandma Lucia “Dada” admired the simplicity of his designs on the Christian Espiritu shop on their way to fetch me from Maryknoll College. [caption id="attachment_148162" align="aligncenter" width="525"] CHRISTIAN and Tingting photographed by Jaime Zobel de Ayala.[/caption] The display changed constantly but the clothes were cut simply along the revered lines of Audrey Hepburn’s and Jackie Onassis.  His below the knee dresses were sleeveless, with a boat collar, 2-pin tucks under the bust accentuated the waist and hips that ended in semi straight skirt.  Mom brought me into his shop at age 15 it was called “Christian” for Christian Espiritu. He launched my modeling career at 16 years old with Gilbert Perez who taught me how to pose.  Mother always reminded me, a pretty face looses attraction if the voice isn’t modulated or manners are impeccable and courteousness for elders.  Christian reinforced Mom’s belief, simplicity are carried off with poise, beauty and elegance. Christian’s creativeness suggested taste with ease and wealth subdued characterizing by minimalism. DT: Tell me about that wedding gown. Why did you choose him and not Valera or one of the stalwarts of the era? What was his inspiration for the gown? What did you tell him about your preferences? TRC: He made my wedding gown and the whole entourage.  My in-laws wanted my wedding gown to be made by Valera a great designer of his time.  But I insisted on Christian. For my wedding gown he sketched the simplest white gown, it turned out he had sequins sewed on the satin fabric one by one.  He put a sheer fabric organza on top of the gown.  It was very elegant for my morning wedding as the sequins shined different colors depending on the lights. That was his precision. For my wedding Christian was at home with his assistant Romulo Estrada.  I recall Inno Sotto as his right hand, both dressed me up constantly. Did I have a preference in designs?  He said “bahala na ako” and I agreed. That was trust and loyalty.  He designed my dresses with simplicity, cut perfectly, shaping my thin body whether it was a day dress or gown. “His dresses were cut perfectly.” DT:  When you were married already, did you still see him for your outfits? Which of the dresses and gowns he made for you do you remember? TRC: Yes, we had a friendship of two family’s compadres and ninangs.  He did China’s wedding gown of gray and pink even if he claimed he was retired.  I forced him. DT: What made him an outstanding designer? TRC: Simplicity. His dresses were cut perfectly and fabrics that didn’t crumple with pin tucks here and there.  With the timelessness in the designs and his execution I could wear Christian’s couture clothes for many years. DT: You are in the Best Dressed Hall of Fame. Was he among the designers that you admired and commissioned to do your dresses? TRC: Yes and our friendship developed through the years and confidence.  He never spoke bad of anybody.  He would just put his hands together and smile. DT: Any unforgettable creation of his exclusively for you? Can you describe some of the gowns and dresses he made for you? TRC: I had a satin dress with a round Chinese emblem and tassel. His clothes for me were stand outs…my gowns for formal functions were of full skirts. “He said, ‘The language of fashion is refined, cultured and well-mannered.’” DT: When was the last time you saw him?  Tell us about that last encounter with him. TRC: At an Elegant Women event in Diamond Hotel, Elegance…Merriam-Webster defines it as “refined grace or dignified propriety; tasteful richness of design or ornamentation; restrained beauty of style.”  The Cambridge Dictionary writes “graceful and attractive in appearance or behavior.” When the project of elegant women first came up, it was for me to make a list of best dressed women.  It had been done too many times now without a conclusion. I figure that there are many Filipinas who have the perfect body for dressing, who dress and accessorize well – but money and a stylist can do that.  And, as the cliché goes, money cannot buy class.  So, the concept evolved and we agreed on making a list of The Elegant Filipina.  We also decided that, first, this project would be for a cause, and second, that I would be allowed to redefine the meaning of elegance to inspire others to contribute to one’s community, society and country by being an elegant example. While the list was handpicked by me, I sought advice to validate my choices.  This panel was composed of designer Christian Espiritu, fashion entrepreneur Tina Ocampo, Monaco Consul Fortune Ledesma, Philippine Tatler’s Editor-In-Chief Anton San Diego, and Managing Editor Chit Lijauco and Pete Cura.  We defined an Elegant Filipina as: He said “The woman at the center of attention knows that the language of fashion is refined, cultured and well-mannered; Commands respect in her chosen field; leaves a legacy of power and grace, beauty and sophistication, wisdom and compassion.” At the first Elegant Women event, he was elegant in his suit with a scarf wearing his trade mark of silver bracelets or varied silver rings.  I called him three weeks ago and we promised to see each other.  It didn’t happen. “He never mixed politics with art.” [caption id="attachment_148158" align="aligncenter" width="525"] A PORTRAIT of Christian Espiritu by Jaime Zobel de Ayala, 1987.[/caption] DT: He turned his back on his number one client, Imelda Marcos, after Ninoy died. Were you ever with Christian during the Anti-Marcos rallies? Do you recall if he was in EDSA? TRC: Christian was calm, well educated, schooled and respectful.  He wouldn’t hurt anyone’s feelings.  Never mixed politics and arts. I don’t know about that. I was not with Christian rallying.  For rallies I only wore blue jeans or khaki pants and trubenized blouses made of cotton white t-shirt. DT: Who are his other clients from your social set? Who were his loyal customers. TRC:  I don’t know.  I didn’t care nor ask.  That’s not my concern. DT:  How did your relationship evolve in the latter years of his life? TRC: I love him.  He was part of my growing up and getting old. DT:  What do you think was his greatest contribution to Philippine fashion? How did he influence the Philippine fashion industry? TRC: He kept piña alive and the Paranaque bordaderas working day to midnight in their livelihood of Filipino tradition.  He used muted colors of fabric.  He made women look elegant and desired without showing of their bodies. I agreed that elegance can be expensive.  But elegance can be inexpensive too, but confidence and amiability are the key factors. The post Tingting Cojuangco — Christian Espiritu’s ultimate muse appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»

Category: lifestyleSource:  abscbnRelated NewsJun 23rd, 2023

Pride screenings showcase a rainbow of stories

Cinema is one of the most engaging artforms and creative expressions through which the LGBTQ+ community documents their lived experiences, conveys their desires and struggles, celebrates their identities and advocates for reforms and deeper understanding. Thus, film screenings are popular activities during LGBTQ+ Pride Month. This year, several institutions, streaming service companies and film groups are mounting screenings, giving these works more opportunities to reach more audiences. Here is a rundown: FDCP’s Pelikulaya LGBTQIA+ Film Festival The Film Development Council of the Philippines brings back the Pelikulaya LGBTQIA+ Film Festival this year with the theme “Mga Kuwentong Mapagpalaya” (Liberating Stories), and the aim is training the spotlight “on underrepresented members of the LGBTQIA+ community to promote a better understanding of inclusivity, diversity and equality.” According to Tirso Cruz III, FDCP chairman and chief executive officer, Pelikulaya “aims to raise awareness of LGBTQIA+ issues. We believe that by using the power of film, we can do our part in showcasing films that celebrate LGBTQIA+ stories. Hoping to create understanding of the lives, perspectives and advocacies shown in each film.” “With that, the FDCP sends our love and gratitude to you all for being with us, and we hope you’ll have a memorable experience in all of our Cinematheque Centres across the Philippines,” he added. To be held from 23 to 30 June, Pelikulaya will screen titles at the Cinematheque Centres in Manila, Davao, Iloilo, Nabunturan and Bacolod, and several theaters in Metro Manila including Cinema ‘76 and UP Film Institute’s Cine Adarna/Videotheque. Some of the titles will also be available for streaming on JuanFlix (www.juanflix.com.ph) starting 30 June with a subscription fee. A special screening of a digitally restored and remastered version of Wong Kar Wai’s Happy Together will kick off the festival on 23 June at the Shangri-La Plaza Mall in Mandaluyong City. Aside from Happy Together, films that will be screened at the Cinematheque Centres are Girl (directed by Lukas Dhont); Portrait of a Lady on Fire (directed by Celine Sciamma); Women Do Cry (directed by Vesela Kazako and Mina Mileva); Billie and Emma (directed by Samantha Lee); Mamu, and a Mother Too (directed by Rod Singh); Metamorphosis (directed by J.E. Tiglao); and The Boy Foretold by the Stars (directed by Dolly Dulu). Ishmael Bernal’s Manila by Night will have a free screening. Priced from P100 to P200, tickets to Manila screenings may be purchased through bit.ly/CCManilaTickets. [caption id="attachment_146567" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Lukas Dhont’s ‘Girl’ is inspired by a true story of a young trans girl who aspired to be a ballerina.[/caption] Short films will be screened for free at the Cinematheque Centres, and the lineup includes Alingasngas ng mga Kuliglig (directed by Vahn Leinard Pascual); Love in the Ungodly Hour (directed by Bradley Jason Pantajo); Dikit (directed by Gabriela Serrano); Gulis (directed by Kyle Jumayne Francisco); Noontime Drama (directed by Kim Timan and Sam Villa-Real); and Nang Maglublob ako sa Isang Mangkok ng Liwanag (directed by Kukay Zinampan). [caption id="attachment_146563" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ‘Dikit,’ a short film by Gabriela Serrano.[/caption] To be available for streaming on JuanFlix are Sila-Sila (directed by Giancarlo Abrahan); Metamorphosis; Mamu, and a Mother Too; Rome and Juliet (directed by Connie Macatuno); How to Die Young in Manila (directed by Petersen Vargas); Nang Maglublob ako sa Isang Mangkok ng Liwanag; and This is Not A Coming Out Story (directed by Mark Felix Ebreo). Portrait of a Lady on Fire and Women Do Cry will be also be available on a pay-per-view basis. At Cinema ’76 Cinema ’76 Film Society is bringing in acclaimed movies this Pride Month. Headlining is Happy Together, the 1997 Cannes-winning romantic drama directed by renowned Hong Kong filmmaker Wong Kar-Wai and featuring Tony Leung and the late Leslie Cheung as two lovers caught in a turbulent affair. Aside from Happy Together, two films featuring transgender experiences will also be shown. Girl is the debut film of Belgian filmmaker Lukas Dhont and won the Camera d’Or for Best Feature Film at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival. The film was inspired by a true story of a young trans girl who aspired to be a ballerina. On the other hand, Fanny: The Right to Rock is a documentary by Canadian filmmaker Bobbi Jo Hart about Fanny, the legendary Filipina-American-fronted rock band whose trailblazing impact in music was written out of history. The film touches on the place of women, women of color, queers and older women in a straight male-dominated industry. [caption id="attachment_146564" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ‘Fanny The Right to Rock,’ a documentary about a forgotten queer band.[/caption] The three films will have a limited run from 21 to 27 June at Cinema ’76 on Tomas Morato Avenue in Quezon City. On iWantTFC A streaming platform with international reach, iWantTFC celebrates all types of love with a special selection of movies and series called Love is Love that includes Drag You and Me, iWantTFC’s latest original series that tackles drag culture and stars Andrea Brillantes, JC Alcantara and Christian Bables. Other iWantTFC originals that viewers may stream are the Girls’ Love series Sleep with Me, starring Janine Gutierrez and Lovi Poe, and Fluid, Boys’ Love (BL) rom-com Oh, Mando! and advocacy series Mga Batang Poz. [caption id="attachment_146566" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Photograph courtesy of Dreamscape Entetainment | ‘Drag You and Me’ is an iWantTFC original series that tackles drag culture.[/caption] There are also empowering movies and series about loving freely and living authentically, such as The Boy Foretold by the Stars and its sequel series Love Beneath the Stars, Black Sheep’s hit series Hello Stranger starring Tony Labrusca and JC Alcantara, and the Star Cinema film My Lockdown Romance, starring Jameson Blake and Joao Constancia. Stories on learning how to embrace one’s sexuality and being true to oneself are told by The Panti Sisters, Die Beautiful, The Third Party and Baka Bukas. Thai BL series, such as 2gether the Series, Still 2gether, A Tale of a Thousand Stars and Bad Buddy are also available to stream as well as well-loved and classic LGBTQ-themed movies, such as T-Bird at Ako, Si Chedeng at si Apple and In My Life. These can be viewed on the iWantTFC app (iOs and Android) and website (iwanttfc.com). In other select countries, watch iWantTFC on a larger screen with select devices, including VEWD, ROKU and Amazon Fire streaming devices, Android TV, select Samsung Smart TV models, Telstra TV (in Australia) and VIDAA. On Jungo Pinoy New Filipino streaming app Jungo Pinoy, which boasts of having the largest Filipino-dubbed movie library in the world, as well as original films and TV series, also has a selection of LGBTQ-themed and queer-created films and series, which can be viewed either for free or through a subscription plan. Recommended watch includes: eCupid (exclusive Filipino-dubbed), a romantic comedy directed by JC Calciano and starring Morgan Fairchild, Houston Rhines and Noah Schuffman, tells the story of a gay man nearing 30 years old tapping into an otherworldly internet advertisement that begins to control his life. Hoping to end his seven-year romance rut, he uses the site to get everything he wants until he discovers that what he thought he wanted wasn’t the thing that would ultimately make him happy. Ten Year Plan (exclusive Filipino-dubbed) is another romantic comedy directed by Calciano and starring Jack Turner and Michael Adam Hamilton. In the film, two best friends make a pact to be together in a decade if neither finds love. With two months left until their deadline, they both scramble to find someone to avoid being each other’s last resort. [caption id="attachment_146565" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ‘TEN Year Plan,’ directed by JC Calciano.[/caption] Adan is a Filipino lesbian mystery and romance movie starring Cindy Miranda, Rhen Escano and Ruby Ruiz. In the movie, a naive provincial girl finds a way to be independent through the help of her girl best friend, but their actions have consequences. [caption id="attachment_146562" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Photographs Courtesy oF JUNGO PINOY | ‘ADAN’ tells about a lesbian story.[/caption] Daddy Issues, starring Jo Ashe and Rachel Barry, is a comedy about loss and starting over. In the film, when her emotionally distant father dies and leaves her his company, a hapless stand-up comic moves to Los Angeles to take over the family business. Tucked is about an aging drag queen who forms an unlikely friendship with a younger queen. As they discover more about each other, they realize how to truly be themselves. Starring Derren Nesbit and Jordan Stephens, this film is about love, loss and friendship. Lady Gaga: iTunes Festival features the pop star’s performance at the Itunes Music Festival, which also marked the world premiere of tracks from her album ARTPOP. [caption id="attachment_146570" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF JUNGO PINOY | WATCH pop star Lady Gaga perform in ‘Lady Gaga iTunes Festival.’[/caption] Sam Smith: Austin City Limits features the non-binary English singer and songwriter performing their greatest hits, such as “Nirvana” and “I Know I’m Not the Only One” on the stage at Austin City Limits. [caption id="attachment_146569" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ‘Sam Smith: Austin City Limits.’[/caption] At the Quezon City Public Library A weekly film screening is part of the celebration of LGBTQ+ Pride Month of one of the country’s most active public libraries, the Quezon City Public Library (QCPL). With the theme, “Equality for All,” their celebration aims “to highlight the unique contributions and lived experiences of the members of the LGBTQIA+ community through various library activities and informational resources.” “This celebration also forwards an aspiration: that one day, we will be able to genuinely acknowledge the existence of our fellow LGBTQIA+ brothers and sisters as equally valuable as everyone. And that they too deserve equal opportunity in any given situation and honest representation in all of its forms, shapes and sizes,” the library explained. The film screenings started with Love, Simon and Everything Everywhere All at Once on 9 June and All My Life and Bekikang on 16 June. Other films to be shown are Perks of Being A Wall Flower and Boys in the Band on 23 June, and Eternals and Imitation Game on 30 June. Screenings are from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Conference Room of QCPL. Contact the library to reserve slots. At the UPFI Film Center The University of the Philippines Film Institute also had screenings of LGBTQ+ films on 17 June, in partnership with the UP Diliman Gender Office. Shown were short films Gutab, Dory, Niknik, Kurozetto, Bakit, Papa? and Nang Maglublob Ako sa isang Mangkok ng Liwanag. The post Pride screenings showcase a rainbow of stories appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»

Category: newsSource:  tribuneRelated NewsJun 18th, 2023

Tina Turner: Love had everything to do with it

I have been listening to rock music for many years. To this day though, I still have to hear a version of What’s Love Got to Do with It that puts a new spin to the song or one that approximates the spellbinding power that Tina Turner put into it......»»

Category: entertainmentSource:  philstarRelated NewsJun 1st, 2023

Brazilians say emotional goodbye to rock icon Rita Lee

Fans flocked to a Sao Paulo park Wednesday to say an emotional farewell to Brazil's "Queen of Rock," the trailblazing singer-songwriter Rita Lee, who died this week at age 75. Brazil is holding three days of national mourning for the Latin Grammy-winning icon, who shot to fame in the 1960s with the legendary band Os Mutantes and captivated the country across a five-decade career with her rebellious spirit and irreverent songs on sex, love, and freedom. Standing in the rain, hundreds of fans joined a long line that formed early Wednesday outside the planetarium at Sao Paulo's Ibirapuera Park, where a public wake was held for Lee, as she had requested. "She was a woman before her time, a genius," said 27-year-old fan Barbarhat Sueyassu. "She's our biggest national symbol of women's rock," she told AFP. Inside the planetarium dome, fans filed past Lee's simple brown coffin -- some in tears, some singing her songs. Lee, a leading figure in the "Tropicalismo" movement that revolutionized Brazilian music amid the country's 1964-1985 military dictatorship, was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2021. She died Monday at home in Sao Paulo, her family said. With her eye-grabbing outfits, bright red hair, and colored sunglasses, Lee was a national fixture across the decades in Brazil, releasing more than 30 albums and racking up hits including "Ovelha Negra" (1975), "Mania de Voce" (1979) and "Lanca Perfume" (1980). Her body will be cremated in a private ceremony, in line with her wishes, her family said. The post Brazilians say emotional goodbye to rock icon Rita Lee appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»

Category: newsSource:  tribuneRelated NewsMay 10th, 2023

Balmain races to recover from robbery at Paris Fashion Week

The fashion world loves drama but normally it does not involve violent robberies, so there is outsize attention on Wednesday's Balmain show after the French label had 50 outfits stolen just days earlier. Balmain's creative director Olivier Rousteing announced on September 17 that a driver had been "hijacked" on the way from a Paris airport to the house's headquarters by a gang of thieves who stole 50 outfits. He and his team have since been racing to put together a collection for the show on Wednesday night. There were no signs of panic from Rousteing on Tuesday when he posted a video from his workshop showing the finishing touches being put to a dress that looked like a pink garden trestle with blue flowers climbing over it. He added the apparently ironic comment: "Florals for spring? Groundbreaking..." Paris Fashion Week kicked off on Monday and runs to 3 October, with 107 brands presenting, of which 67 are giving runway shows. One of the first big names was Pierre Cardin, which has returned to the official Paris lineup this year for the first time in a quarter-century. Its show was full of retro space-age outfits that harked back to its glory days, but the relatives of Cardin, who died in 2020, are currently tearing each other apart in court over the inheritance. "My uncle gave me the mission to perpetuate the house and its style," Rodrigo Basilicati-Cardin, who is currently overseeing the label, said backstage. "If the brand is sold, it will be the end of the house. I am confident the court decisions will ensure continuity," he added. Among the other highlights so far was the latest collection from Dior on Tuesday, which saw the walls of the show plastered with mock sexist slogans from old adverts, such as "Save your marriage -- iron properly". The collection by Maria Grazia Chiuri, who recently dressed Queen Camilla for her state dinner at Versailles, was a largely monochrome affair with comfortable, breezy items alongside straight masculine jackets, pleated skirts, and plenty of knitwear. Coming later this week are the final shows for two big-name designers. Gabriela Hearst is leaving Chloe after fewer than three years. Her focus on sustainable fashion was critically acclaimed but did not bring a major boost to sales. It will also be the last show for Sarah Burton, who took over at Alexander McQueen following the founder's suicide in 2010. The post Balmain races to recover from robbery at Paris Fashion Week appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»

Category: newsSource:  inquirerRelated NewsSep 27th, 2023

Vive Versailles! A right royal welcome for British monarchs

For his first state visit as sovereign to France, which had to be postponed for six months due to riots, Britain's King Charles III will receive the gold standard of French welcomes -- a reception at the Palace of Versailles. The palace, which was the seat of the monarchy before the French Revolution of 1789, is now a museum, but it is still used by French presidents to host leaders they want to impress, from Queen Victoria to Vladimir Putin. 'Long live the king!' France, which beheaded its own king and queen, has a long-running love affair with the British royal family and over the past 170 years has often wined and dined them at Versailles. Emperor Napoleon III threw a ball for 1,200 guests at the royal opera in Versailles when Queen Victoria visited in 1855, the first trip to Paris by a British monarch in 400 years. In 1938, as Europe stood on the threshold of another world war, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth II swept into Paris to cries of "Long live the king!" and were too hosted at Versailles, in this case for lunch. Less than two decades later, President Rene Coty pulled out all the stops for the young Queen Elizabeth, Britain's longest-serving monarch who died last year, on her first state visit to France with her husband Prince Philip. After a night at the Paris Opera, the pair had lunch in Versailles' Hall of Mirrors, where the World War I reparations treaty was famously signed in 1919. Fondness for foie gras The land where food is king has served up an eye-popping array of delicacies for its British visitors. But Victoria, known for her voracious appetite, had only faint praise for French cuisine, writing that while "the fowl and bouillon are quite delicious" French cooking has "less variety than ours". Her son Edward VII was treated to a 16-course feast in 1903, complete with fattened chicken, quail and glazed ducks. By Elizabeth II's time, the menu had been slimmed down to four or five courses, with one recurring staple: foie gras. The Francophile queen had a fondness for the controversial pate obtained by force-feeding ducks or geese, but it is unlikely to feature on the menu for Charles, who has banned it from his household. Open for business Versailles has hosted many distinguished commoners as well. In the post-war years, President Charles de Gaulle used it to host John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon when they were US presidents, as well as the Shah of Iran. Socialist president Francois Mitterrand threw open the palace gates to communists when he used it to host Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev. By contrast, Nicolas Sarkozy and Francois Hollande rarely used Versailles, with the exception of late Libyan leader Moamer Kadhafi for the former and Chinese President Xi Jinping for the latter. In 2017, before Moscow's invasion of Ukraine turned him into a pariah, Russian President Vladimir Putin was welcomed there by his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron. Macron has also used Versailles to tout France's charms to foreign investors, including Tesla founder and X (formerly Twitter) owner Elon Musk who was invited to a business summit there in May. The post Vive Versailles! A right royal welcome for British monarchs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»

Category: newsSource:  tribuneRelated NewsSep 18th, 2023

London Fashion Week throws spotlight on young designers

After New York, the fashion world descended on London Friday for a catwalk extravaganza showcasing big names such as Burberry but also the work of young designers who could become household names. Ahead of the official start, Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour on Thursday evening hosted a star-studded event billed as Britain's answer to New York's Met Gala. Supermodels Kate Moss, Linda Evangelista, Naomi Campbell, and Cindy Crawford were joined by stars of music, theatre, and film from Kate Winslet and Brian Cox to Annie Lennox and Rita Ora. Actress Sienna Miller however stole the show with a daring pregnancy bump-baring outfit. Last year's London Fashion Week, billed as a comeback after disruption due to the Covid pandemic, was overshadowed by the death of Queen Elizabeth II and 10 days of national mourning. This year, more than 80 designers are set to present their spring/summer 2024 collections, with around 50 catwalk shows and other presentations. "It's going to be five really exciting days full of creativity," said Caroline Rush, chief executive of organizers of the British Fashion Council. But in the world of fashion, London is enduring a post-Covid slump, with inflation -- the highest in the G7 at 6.8 percent in July -- and Brexit combining to create a depressed economic backdrop. That has left the British capital trailing Paris, Milan, and New York in the fashion week stakes. In a sign of its loss of influence, even British former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham has crossed the Channel to present her designs in Paris since last year. Fresh UK finding On Wednesday, the UK government announced £2 million ($2.5 million) to support young designers, which will go to the BFC's existing NewGen program. The scheme, which over the last 30 years has supported the best young fashion designers, aims to launch the high-end global brands of tomorrow. The UK government funding will go towards the staging of five fashion weeks over two years, said the BFC. Previous recipients include the legendary Alexander McQueen, who died in 2010. On Saturday, the Design Museum in London is presenting an exhibition celebrating young NewGen talents, and the energy they have brought to the industry. "REBEL: 30 Years of London Fashion" showcases about 100 designs, some of which have gone down in pop culture history. This year, about 20 designers are benefiting from the NewGen program. Most are recent graduates, but who have already managed to dress some of the biggest stars. Outfits by Ukrainian designer Masha Popova have been worn by singer Dua Lipa. Di Petsa has dressed actress Zendaya. Among the more established names are 16Arlington, JW Anderson, Molly Goddard, Richard Quinn, Roksanda, and Simone Rocha. But Burberry, the London fashion house founded in 1856, remains the most eagerly awaited show. It takes place on Monday afternoon and will be only the second collection for British creative director Daniel Lee, following on from his February show. The ex-Bottega Veneta designer replaced Riccardo Tisci a year ago. Sales have soared in China for the brand with the distinctive check print. On the final day, Tuesday, Ukrainian designers will present their collections with  London once again hosting Ukrainian Fashion Week due to Russia's invasion. The BFC is also trying to make London an increasingly inclusive venue for catwalk shows. It has launched a survey aimed at all those working in the sector, with questions on their gender, sexual orientation, religion, and social background. "The audit is long overdue and marks the first step towards the vital measurement of the UK fashion industry's collective progress towards the goal of fair representation," the BFC said. The results will be announced later this year. The post London Fashion Week throws spotlight on young designers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»

Category: sportsSource:  abscbnRelated NewsSep 15th, 2023

‘Whole family gone’: families identify victims of Hanoi fire

Hundreds gathered outside a morgue in western Hanoi Wednesday, waiting to hear if their families and friends were victims of a devastating apartment fire that killed more than 50 people. The fire in the 10-storey building, which had only one exit and wire-barred balconies, started as residents fell asleep on Tuesday night. Neighbours and residents of the building in the capital's southwest said they heard screaming as people struggled to escape the flames and thick smoke. Police said 56 people were killed and 37 injured, while state media reported that three children were among the dead. At the morgue in a military-owned hospital, officials appeared at the entrance every half hour to announce through a loudspeaker that there was another victim for families to identify. Holding out a photo on a mobile phone or simply describing the dead, medical workers asked desperate relatives if they recognised their loved ones. Cries broke out each time a match was found. Authorities tried to prevent families talking to journalists, but one man, who did not give his name, said his daughter had died and feared his wife had also perished. "I lost my daughter, who was staying with her mother," he said through tears. Unsure where his wife was, he told AFP: "I guess she did not make it either." One group of five women, sitting on the floor outside the morgue, said their "whole family had gone". "They were our children and grandchildren," they said. 'So much suffering'  Elsewhere in the morgue, families who knew their loved ones had died sat waiting for hours to collect the bodies. One man, who gave his name as Dung, said his two young cousins, a man and a woman, were among the dead. They had come from their home in nearby coastal Thai Binh province to study. "They were at university here. Our family bought them this small apartment. "We are waiting here to bring back them back to our home province for burial, but we don't know when they are going to release the body." State media reported that Hanoi would provide around $1,500 to families for each adult who had died. Compensation would also be given for those who had lost a child. The apartment block, which is down a narrow alley in a residential area of the capital, was home to several young families. Many had come from other provinces to work or to study. Around 150 people lived in the building, which had no emergency ladder on the outside. Survivor Tran Thi Lien, 65, who bought her second-floor apartment in the block eight years ago, told AFP that residents had requested better fire safety equipment many times. "They still did not do it," she said. "When people die like this... it causes so much suffering." The post ‘Whole family gone’: families identify victims of Hanoi fire appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»

Category: lifestyleSource:  abscbnRelated NewsSep 13th, 2023

Savoy dynasty daily life on display with Geneva auction

Porcelain figurines, a white faux-leather sofa and a foosball table: these are among the items in a House of Savoy auction, providing a rare glimpse into the everyday life of royals. More than 200 objects are going under the hammer this week, drawn from the former Geneva home of Vittorio Emanuele of Savoy -- the son of the last king of Italy, Umberto II -- and his wife Marina. Royal aficionados may be interested in a delicate 18th century tea cup, a modernist game of chess, or two motorcycles owned by the couple's 51-year-old son, Emanuele Filiberto of Savoy. A portion of the lots are being sold off online until September 18, while others will feature in an in-person auction two days later hosted by the Geneve Encheres auction house. In all, the objects being sold by the couple are expected to fetch between 100,000 and 150,000 Swiss francs ($112,000-$168,000). But Cyril Duval, a partner at Geneve Encheres, told AFP the value estimates were not really important, since the collection was more about "falling in love". This auction, he said, "makes it possible for collectors to obtain certain objects they may have dreamt about after seeing them in magazines or on the screen". The collection comprises of historical memorabilia and some household items from the villa the Savoy family had built in the 1970s in Vesenaz, on the outskirts of Geneva. Vittorio Emanuele is the 86-year-old head of the House of Savoy, whose family was forced to leave Italy after the monarchy was abolished in 1946. 'Rock and roll' Among the items for sale is "a 19th century dinner set used during a ball hosted by Queen Victoria in London City Hall", Duval said. There are also objects linked to the Savoy family heritage, including engraved silver coat of arms and porcelain figurines, but also bronze statuettes recalling the modernist interior style of the Geneva villa. The collection also includes items that are "much more pop", Duval said. He highlighted one of the two motorcycles, a 1941 Indian Sport Scout, with an asking price of 15,000-20,000 Swiss francs ($16,800-$22,400). "It belonged to crown prince Emanuele Filiberto, a 20th century rock and roll prince with tattooed arms," he said. The grandson of Italy's last king, who is married to French actress Clotilde Courau, enjoyed riding his motorcycles with Johnny Hallyday, the late French rock legend, he added. Duval explained that the auction was taking place after "the prince and princess left and sold" the Geneva villa this year, opting to stay in their residence in the luxury Swiss ski resort town of Gstaad instead. Vittorio Emanuele was born in Naples in 1937, less than a decade before the monarchy ended and his family was forced to leave Italy. He and other male heirs of the Savoy family were sent into exile because his grandfather Vittorio Emmanuele III had collaborated with the fascist regime of Benito Mussolini on anti-Jewish laws during World War II. Vittorio Emmanuele III abdicated in May 1946 after 46 years on the throne, and his son Umberto II succeeded him, but only for a month before a June referendum abolished the monarchy. The Italian parliament only ended a constitutional ban on the House of Savoy's male heirs returning to Italy in 2002, after Vittorio Emanuele and Emanuele Filiberto swore loyalty to the republic, but they have continued living mainly in Switzerland. The post Savoy dynasty daily life on display with Geneva auction appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»

Category: lifestyleSource:  abscbnRelated NewsSep 11th, 2023

Mindanao flamboyance

Besides being a beacon of camaraderie among the native creative talents, the Mindanao Fashion Summit is also a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community. It can’t be denied that members of this dynamic community comprise the dominant force in fashion and pageantry. So, it was quite fitting that a special segment dedicated to the flamboyant LGBTQ+ members continued at the 12th MFS. The Oro Fashion Designers Guild, headed by its president, Mark Christopher Yaranon, and MFS chairman, Dr. Mavy de Leon Ladlad, are grateful for the multi-sectoral support that they received. “Our special thanks go to the marketing team of Ayala Malls Centrio, our venue, and to MFS co-chairman, Atty. Jose Pepe ‘Joey’ Abbu Jr.; to the LGU of Cagayan de Oro headed by Mayor Rolando A. Uy and Vice Mayor Jocelyn Rodriguez, the City Tourism Office, and the Department of Tourism-Northern Mindanao Office headed by regional director May Salvaña-Unchuan,” Yaranon said. The show, held on 24 August, was directed by Robbie Fortich Pamisa, an HIV screening motivator at Oro Pia Community Center, which is named after and heavily supported by homegrown beauty, Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach. Pamisa is also the executive director at Kagay-an PLUS — Preserving Life, Uniting Society Inc. Here, the designers shed light on their ostentatious creations: [caption id="attachment_182184" align="aligncenter" width="1587"] MARK CHRISTOPHER YARANON (Photo by Roger Nazar Lactao Jr.)[/caption]   MARK CHRISTOPHER YARANON “For the third time, Christer Kim is my muse. She’s the most competent and articulate host in our city, and I’ve been her designer since she started her hosting gigs. She’s known as the ‘Carry On Queen’ for her ‘the show must go on’ stance. She is also this year’s backstage correspondent for the MFS. “Christer is wearing a long and slinky drop neckline, long-sleeved evening gown in gold lace embedded with crystals and beads with a front high slit.” [caption id="attachment_182186" align="aligncenter" width="1705"] SHINE J CASINO (Photo by Roger Nazar Lactao Jr.)[/caption]   SHINE J CASIÑO “My creation for the MFS LGBT segment is inspired by the Parisian male workers during the 1960s. The Mikado silk jumpsuit, instead of using solid colors, I chose pastel to highlight the lives of LGBTQ+ men. “My model is Peter Leary Brown, known as Pedro or Sycris Brown. Half-Spanish and half-Bisaya, he was a Mr. Gay World Philippines 2016 finalist who represented General Santos City. He also placed third in the grand finals of It’s Showtime’s “I Am Pogay” contest.” [caption id="attachment_182185" align="aligncenter" width="1743"] RUVIL NERI (Photo by Roger Nazar Lactao Jr.)[/caption]   RUVIL NERI “My model is Marvie Salvania, a bisexual student. I chose her because she is one of my models at Models & Queens, which I manage. I also love her confidence, X Factor and character onstage. “Marvie is wearing a purple coatdress that resembles an overcoat with collar, lapels and front ribbon made of honeycomb silk. It is matched with a spaghetti-strapped, dope-dyed chiffon, straight-cut knee-level dress. I picked the color purple for the cocktail dress for it represents the LGBTQ+ [people] being creative, original and passionate.” [caption id="attachment_182181" align="aligncenter" width="1705"] BOOGIE MUSNI RIVERA (Photo by Roger Nazar Lactao Jr.)[/caption]   BOOGIE MUSNI RIVERA “My muse Steffy Marie Sy epitomizes two of my most wonderful childhood experiences — playing with Barbie dolls while watching beauty pageants. These are memories that I would always stamp on my heart and mind. “Steffy was a runner-up at Queen of CDO 2022. She is wearing a fully beaded and sequined gown with one-shoulder oyster neckline. The silhouette is A line cut with a slit at the left side. The color is hot pink, which is inspired by Barbie.” [caption id="attachment_182182" align="aligncenter" width="1705"] KIKO DOMO (Photo by Roger Nazar Lactao Jr.)[/caption]   KIKO DOMO “Channeling the mythical power of the Oro Fish and the strength of a Japanese warrior, my creation embodies the fusion of art and inspiration. Crafted from 3/4 inch-squared synthetic gold tiles, it forms a captivating silhouette representing, charisma and power. Just like my LGBT muse Frank Tongco, a renowned makeup artist, my design celebrates the beauty of diversity and the resonance of mythical legends.”   JOSHUA N. GUIBONE “My fully sequined creation, called ‘Strong in Gold,’ is a mesmerizing piece that exudes glamour and sophistication. Its exquisite design combines a thigh-high slit and a daring deep neckline, making it the perfect choice for those who want to make a bold fashion statement. The waist is artfully slimmed using a darker shade of gold, creating a visually striking contrast that accentuates the wearer’s curves.   The show, held on 24 August, was directed by Robbie Fortich Pamisa, an HIV screening motivator at Oro Pia Community Center, which is named after and heavily supported by homegrown beauty, Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach.   “This thoughtful design element not only adds depth to the gown but also highlights the wearer’s natural beauty. With its luxurious sequined fabric and impeccable tailoring, it’s the embodiment of elegance and allure. Whether you’re attending a glamorous event or simply looking to make a stunning entrance, this fully sequined gold gown is sure to leave a lasting impression. “My muse is one of my great friends and a batchmate at Xavier University High School, Barbie Lindelle Neri. She is the current president of the LGBTQ Federation of CDO and the chairman of the Queen of CDO pageant. “She dons a resplendent gold gown symbolizing her role as a warrior queen. Leading the LGBTQIA community in Cagayan de Oro, she stands at the forefront of the battle for our rights, amplifying our voices to reach higher officials. Her ability to exude beauty, power and glamour while advocating for our marginalized community sets an inspiring example.”   The post Mindanao flamboyance appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»

Category: newsSource:  tribuneRelated NewsSep 10th, 2023

Race to find survivors as Morocco quake deaths top 1,300

Morocco's deadliest earthquake in decades has killed more than 1,300 people, authorities said Saturday, as troops and emergency services scrambled to reach remote mountain villages where casualties are still feared trapped. Authorities declared three days of national mourning, but the Red Cross warned that it could take years to repair the damage. The 6.8-magnitude quake struck late Friday in a mountainous area 72 kilometres (45 miles) southwest of the tourist city of Marrakesh, the US Geological Survey reported. With strong tremors also felt in the coastal cities of Rabat, Casablanca and Essaouira, the quake caused widespread damage and sent terrified residents and tourists scrambling to safety in the middle of the night. "I was nearly asleep when I heard the doors and the shutters banging," said Ghannou Najem, a Casablanca resident in her 80s who was visiting Marrakesh when the quake hit. "I went outside in a panic. I thought I was going to die alone." In the mountain village of Tafeghaghte near the quake's epicentre, virtually no buildings were left standing. The traditional clay bricks used by the region's Berber inhabitants proved no match for the rare quake. In the late afternoon, soldiers continued to search through debris, but most survivors headed to the cemetery where loud screams punctuated the last rites as some 70 villagers were laid to rest. "Three of my grandchildren and their mother were killed -- they are still under the rubble," villager Omar Benhanna, 72, told AFP. "Just a while ago, we were all playing together," he added. It was the strongest-ever quake to hit the North African kingdom, and one expert described it as the region's "biggest in more than 120 years". "Where destructive earthquakes are rare, buildings are simply not constructed robustly enough... so many collapse, resulting in high casualties," said Bill McGuire, professor emeritus at Britain's University College London. Updated interior ministry figures on Saturday showed the quake killed at least 1,305 people, the vast majority in Al-Haouz, the epicentre, and Taroudant provinces. Another 1,832 people were injured, including 1,220 in a critical condition, the ministry said. Civil defence Colonel Hicham Choukri who is heading relief operations told state television earlier the epicentre and strength of the earthquake created "an exceptional emergency situation". After a meeting chaired by King Mohammed VI, the palace announced three days of national mourning, with flags to fly at half-mast on all public buildings. 'Unbearable' screams  Faisal Badour, an engineer, said he felt the quake three times in his building in Marrakesh. "There are families who are still sleeping outside because we were so scared of the force of this earthquake," he said. "The screaming and crying was unbearable." Frenchman Michael Bizet, 43, who owns three traditional riad houses in Marrakesh's old town, told AFP he was in bed when the quake struck. "I thought my bed was going to fly away. I went out into the street half-naked and immediately went to see my riads. It was total chaos, a real catastrophe, madness," he said. Footage on social media showed part of a minaret collapsed on Jemaa el-Fna square in the historic city. An AFP correspondent saw hundreds of people flocking to the square to spend the night for fear of aftershocks, some with blankets while others slept on the ground. Houda Outassaf, a local resident, said she was "still in shock" after feeling the earth shake beneath her feet -- and losing relatives. "I have at least 10 members of my family who died... I can hardly believe it, as I was with them no more than two days ago," she said. The regional blood transfusion centre in Marrakesh called on residents to donate blood for the injured. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation announced that a Cup of African Nations qualifier against Liberia, due to have been played on Saturday in the coastal city of Agadir, had been postponed indefinitely. Significant damage likely  "We heard screams at the time of the tremor," a resident of Essaouira, 200 kilometres (125 miles) west of Marrakesh, told AFP. "Pieces of facades have fallen." The USGS PAGER system, which provides preliminary assessments on the impact of earthquakes, issued a "red alert" for economic losses, saying extensive damage is probable. The Red Cross said it was mobilising resources to support the Moroccan Red Crescent, but its Middle East and North Africa director, Hossam Elsharkawi, warned: "We are looking at many months if not years of response." Foreign leaders expressed their condolences and many offered assistance, including Israel with which Morocco normalised relations in 2020. Neighbour and regional rival Algeria announced it was suspending a two-year-old ban on all Moroccan flights through its airspace to enable aid deliveries and medical evacuations. US President Joe Biden said he was "deeply saddened by the loss of life and devastation". Chinese leader Xi Jinping expressed "deep grief for the victims" and hope that "the Moroccan government and people will be able to overcome the impact of this disaster". In 2004, at least 628 people were killed and 926 injured when a quake hit Al Hoceima in northeastern Morocco, and in 1960 a magnitude 6.7 quake in Agadir killed more than 12,000. The 7.3-magnitude El Asnam earthquake in Algeria killed 2,500 people and left at least 300,000 homeless in 1980. The post Race to find survivors as Morocco quake deaths top 1,300 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»

Category: sportsSource:  abscbnRelated NewsSep 9th, 2023

UK marks first anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s death

King Charles III on Friday thanked the public for their support in his first year as monarch, as he marked the one-year anniversary of the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. In a short statement, the 74-year-old British head of state recalled the "great affection" for his mother, her life and public service. "I am deeply grateful, too, for the love and support that has been shown to my wife and myself during this year as we do our utmost to be of service to you all," he added. Commemorations will be low-key on Friday, with the king -- who is at his sprawling Scottish Highland estate of Balmoral -- not expected at any official engagement. His mother, who was on the throne for a record-breaking 70 years, died at Balmoral aged 96 after a period of declining health. Throughout her reign, she did not publicly mark her accession, as it was also the anniversary of her own father King George VI's death in 1952. Last year, when she began her Platinum Jubilee year on February 6, she spent the day in private at her Sandringham estate in Norfolk, eastern England. Gun salute In London, the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery will mark Charles's accession by firing a 41-gun ceremonial salute in Hyde Park from 12:00 pm (1100 GMT). Members of the Honourable Artillery Company -- the oldest regiment in the British Army -- will fire a 62-gun salute from the Tower of London from 1:00 pm. Both regiments were involved in firing the Death Gun salutes to mark the queen's death, and the Proclamation salutes to mark Charles's new reign. The king's eldest son and heir, Prince William, and his wife, Catherine, are expected to carry out royal duties and deliver a message in honor of the late queen. William's estranged younger brother, Prince Harry, was in the UK for a charity event on Thursday but was not expected to meet members of his family. "As you know, I was unable to attend the awards last year as my grandmother passed away," Harry told the charity event. "She would have been the first person to insist that I still come to be with you all instead of going to her, and that's precisely why I know exactly one year on that she is looking down on all of us tonight, happy we're together." Relations between Harry and his father and brother have been strained since he and his wife, Meghan, quit royal life and moved to North America in 2020. Ties have been frayed further by their criticisms of the family in television interviews, a docuseries, and Harry's autobiography. Memorial Elizabeth II's death was a seismic event in British life. For most Britons alive, the queen was the only monarch and head of state they had ever known. During the 10-day official mourning period, tens of thousands of people queued for up to 25 hours to file past her flag-shrouded coffin as it lay in state in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament. Even more packed the streets of London and the route west to Windsor Castle for the state funeral, which was beamed around the world to a television audience of millions. The queen was interred in the King George VI Memorial Chapel, Windsor, alongside her late husband, Prince Philip, who died in 2021, her father and mother, and the ashes of her younger sister, Princess Margaret. Earlier this week, the government announced that a national memorial to the late monarch will be commissioned "in due course". In London on Thursday, there were mixed views about Charles's first year. Some felt he had been right not to introduce sweeping reform too early. "He's got a hard act to follow but he will I think change things," Joanne Hughes, 61, told AFP outside Buckingham Palace. But despite 161 official engagements and tours of all four nations of the United Kingdom, others were indifferent about the new king -- and the monarchy in general. "The monarchy is dying," said nursing student Mimi Jaffer-Clarke. "If he wants it to not die, then he needs to try to The post UK marks first anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s death appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»

Category: lifestyleSource:  abscbnRelated NewsSep 7th, 2023

‘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......»»

Category: newsSource:  tribuneRelated NewsSep 6th, 2023
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