Today, I receive all God’s love for me. Today, I open myself to the unbounded, limitless, overflowing abundance of God’s Universe. Today, I open myself to your Blessings, healing and miracles.Today, I open myself to God’s Word so that I become more like Jesus Everyday. Today, I proclaim that I’m God’s Beloved, I’m God’s Servant, I’m God’s powerful champion, And because I am blessed, I will bless the world, In Jesus Name, Amen.

Featured Post

The Great Wall of China in Mutianyu

The Great Wall of China is referred to in Mandarin as Wanli Changcheng   (10,000-Li Long Wall or simply very long wall) BEIJING, ...

Saturday, September 29, 2012

FAMAS: Best Actress Award Goes to Anne Curtis




Everybody's favorite actress Anne Curtis won her first Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS) Best Actress Award in ceremonies held Tuesday night at Manila Hotel.

The Kapamilya star received her trophy for playing one of the lead roles in the box-office hit “No Other Woman". Anne bested the likes of Angel Locsin, Kris Aquino, and Cristine Reyes for the best actress category. Bongga! Congrats Anne!
In one of her Instagram posts on Wednesday, Anne said, “Dreams do come true. Thank you FAMAS for making that dream come true last night. Best Actress for No Other Woman. Mama, this is for you @carmcurtissmith YOU will forever be the BEST dramatic actress in the world for me. I love you.”

She thanked also the board members and jurors for choosing her as the best actress. 

Plus she also thanked “No Other Woman” director Ruel Bayani for “guiding me to be the best OTHER WOMAN I could be.”

“I’m so happy I was under your wing and guidance whilst portraying the role as Kara Zalderiaga. There is No Other Director like YOU. Love you. Thank you!” she added.

Anne spread the cheer to her over 3.4 million Twitter followers, saying, “I tell you, dreams really do come true. Just have the patience, push yourself a little extra in everything that you do and have HOPE. It’s up to you to take that step closer to pursue your own dreams.”

Anne Curtis won her first Best Actress award at the 34th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) for the period drama “Baler.” She was also named Best Supporting Actress at the 29th Luna Awards for “In Your Eyes.” Just this year, she tied with Angel Locsin for Best Actress at the 14th Gawad Pasado Awards.


FAMAS: Best Supporting Actress is Angelica Panganiban


FAMAS: Best Supporting Actress is Angelica Panganiban


It was a big night for Angelica Panganiban, who was hailed Best Supporting Actress for the horror film “Segunda Mano.” 

“Thank you FAMAS! Salamat talaga :) napapanood ko lang dati ang speech ng mga artista at sinasabi nilang ‘walang maliit na role’ d ko akalain na masasabi ko sya one day :),” Angelica posted on Instagram.

Her ex-boyfriend, Derek Ramsay, congratulated Angelica for her achievement via Twitter. 

“Congratulations sa award gel. Your dream came true. Matagal ka nang deserving. :),” he posted.

Angelica thanked Derek and her other friends for their congratulatory greetings.

“Thank you! @queenbeemae @Frasco_Mortiz @IAmDerekRamsay @DrekWillyCuevas and morbids! @keancipriano,” her post read.

The biggest winner of the night was “Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story,” which won major awards such as Best Actor (Jeorge Estregan), Best Supporting Actor (Baron Geisler), and Best Picture. 

Tikoy Aguiluz, curiously, was named Best Director for the film, although he had wanted his name removed from the credits after changes were done in “Manila Kingpin” allegedly without his permission.


FAMAS:Complete List of Winners


FAMAS:Complete List of Winners


FAMAS is one of the most prestigious award-giving bodies in the country. The organization is comprised of notable writers and film columnists.

Here’s the complete list of winners:

Best Picture: “Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story”
Best Actor: Jeorge Estregan (“Manila Kingpin”)
Best Actress: Anne Curtis (“No Other Woman”)
Best Supporting Actor: Baron Geisler (“Manila Kingpin”)
Best Supporting Actress: Angelica Panganiban (“Segunda Mano”)
Best Child Actress: Xyriel Manabat (“A Mother’s Story”)
Best Child Actor: Buboy Villar (“Ang Panday 2″)
Best Director: Tikoy Aguiluz (“Manila Kingpin”)
Best Story: Carlo Caparas and RJ Nuevas (“Panday 2″)
Best Screenplay: Roy Iglesias and Rey Ventura (“Manila Kingpin”)
Best Cinematography: Carlo Mendoza (“Manila Kingpin”)
Best Theme Song: “Hari Ng Tondo” by Gloc 9 feat. Denise Barbacena (“Manila Kingpin”)
Best Editing: Jason Cahapay, Mirana Medina-Bhunjun, and Ryan Orduña “Manila Kingpin”)

Special Awards:

Hall of Fame: Carlo J. Caparas

German Moreno Youth Achievement Award: Daniel Padilla, Derrick Monasterio, Edgar Allan Guzman, Enrique Gil, Jessy Mendiola, Julie Anne San Jose and Kristoffer Martin

Outstanding Lady Movie Producers: Atty. Anette Gozon-Abrogar (GMA Films), Donna Villa (Golden Lions Films), Lily Monteverde (Regal Films), and Malou Santos (Star Cinema)
Public Service Award: Gov. ER Ejercito

Huwarang Artista sa Larangan ng Serbisyo Publiko: Quezon City Councilor Alfred Vargas

Exemplary Achievement in the Field of Justice: Public Attorney’s Office Chief Atty. Persida V. Rueda-Acosta

Antonio M. Padua Memorial Award: Ricky Lo

FAMAS Grand Award: Edmark International CEO Sam Low Ban Chai

Posthumous Award: Department of Interior and Local Government Sec. Jesse Robredo


Trade in your Old Coffee Maker for a FREE CBTL Kaldi machine






Join CBTL on National Coffee Day for their Trade Up Your Cup event.

Trade in your Old Coffee Maker for a FREE CBTL Kaldi machine.

WHEN: Saturday, September 29th from 11am-5pm
WHERE: Corner of Sunset & Horn,
8775 W. Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA

Parking Details:

Parking lots will open at 8 am
-9026 Sunset Blvd (Next to Shamrock Tattoo). Price $7
-1029 Larrabee (behind The Viper Room). Price $7
-8560 Sunset (Equinox Lot – Sunset/Alta Loma). Hourly.
-9040 Sunset (directly across from Key Club). Price $7.
-8720 Sunset Blvd (the BLT Steak building)-- This lot will open
at 9a – valet is $7


*****First 2500 customers to trade in their old coffee maker will receive a free CBTL Single Serve Kaldi Machine. To be eligible, old coffee maker must have an electrical plug and must be traded in on Saturday, September 29 between 11am and 5pm at the corner of Sunset & Horn. One trade-in per customer only. Cannot be combined with other offers.
https://www.facebook.com/events/139319072880305/


FREE FOOD SUMMIT: Professionalizing the Foodservice Industry



F&B World Magazine brings you the F&B World Summit 2012 “Providing Quality Service & Beyond: Professionalizing the Foodservice Industry” on October 4, 2012 (Thursday) at the Glorietta Activity Center from 10:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Take part in this once-a-year event showcasing the latest trends in the food service industry.
Attendees can look forward to food tasting, seminars, and new products to enhance food production.  
Registration is free.

Program

Latest Trends and Innovations in the Foodservice Industry

1:00-1:30 pm - Trailblazing the Coffee Scene: Unique Ideas for Coffee Shops (Chit Juan)
1:45 - 2:15 PM - Talk and Demo by Uniliver Food Solutions
2:30 - 2:45 PM - Talk and Demo by Tefal
3:00 - 3:30 PM - Global Baking, Pastry and Confectionery Trends (Talk and Demo) - (Puratos)

Food Entrepreneurship

3:45 - 4:15 PM - Success Secrets in Food Business and Adapting to Today's Market with Creative Ideas (Johnlu Koa, French Baker)
4:30 - 5:00 PM - Talk and Demo by Great Food Solutions
5:15 - 5:45 PM - Opportunities in the Foodservice and Hospitality Industry - COHREP

Interested participants may register to the seminars in the F&B Summit 2012 program online by e-mailing us the following details.

Name:
Company / Institution:
Profession:
Age:
Mobile no.:
e-mail address:
Preferred seminar:
With the subject F&B Summit to hingeFNBsummit2012@gmail.com
 
Kindly wait for an e-mail receipt saying that you are officially registered to your preferred session.
Guests may send their RSVP to Mr. Vince Oliquiano 403.88.25 loc. 214 / (0917) 591.70.25 / voliquaino@hip.ph
 
Like our facebook page for updates http://www.facebook.com/fnbworldmag


See you there!


Friday, September 28, 2012

BACOLOD:Maskkara Festival 2012



BACOLOD :Maskkara Festival 2012
 
Bacolod, the "City of Smiles" will once again celebrate its world renowned Masskara Festival this year! And for 2012 the theme is "Life’s Good in Bacolod". They say that Bacolod City has the happiest festival in the country.  Maybe a lot of you are wondering what does the word Masskara means.  Mass, which means "many", and Kara, a Spanish word for "face". Masskara Festival is the most anticipated festival in the country held every 3rd week of October in Bacolod City. The street dancing competitions for schools and barangay categories is the Masskara festival's highlights which will be happening on October 20-21, 2012.

Here are the calendar of activities:



October 1, 2012

Opening of the Festival sites (all-day) @ Bacolod Public Plaza
Opening of Carnival sites: SM City (all-day)
GMA DanssKara:The MassKara Dance Showdown Eliminations (all-day)
Fireworks (all-day)
Opening of 2012 MassKara Festival and DanssKara Elimination (GMA Dance Showdown) @ Bacolod Public Plaza (7:00 pm – 11:00 pm)

October 5, 2012

MassKara Art Weekend (all-day)
Opening of art events: MassKara 9 group show, Magika MassKara, Art Tour

October 6, 2012

MassKara Art Weekend (all-day)

October 7, 2012

MassKara Art Weekend (all-day)

October 12, 2012

i-Witness DocuFest wth GMA News and Public Affairs personalities @ SM City Event Center (12:00 pm – 6:00 pm)

October 13, 2012

Little Miss MassKara pageant night (5:00 pm – 7:00 pm)

October 19, 2012

Kapuso Electric Float/Electric MassKara Day 1 @ Tourism Strip (6:00 – 4:00 am)
Electric Float Competition

October 20, 2012

Streetdance – Schools Category @ Bacolod Public Plaza (2:00 pm – 9:00 pm)
Kapuso Mall Show @ SM City Event Centre (4:00 pm – 6:00 pm)
Kapuso Electric Float/Electric MassKara Day 2 @ Tourism Strip (6:00 pm – 4:00 am)

October 21, 2012

Streetdance – Barangay Category @ Bacolod Public Plaza (2:00 pm – 9:00 pm)
Kapuso Electric Float/Electric MassKara Day 3 @ Tourism Strip (6:00 pm – 4:00 am)

October 22, 2012

Closing Ceremonies (all-day) @ Bacolod Public PlazaMassKara Festival
Closing Ceremonies/DanssKara Grand Finals/Kapuso Night (7:00 pm – 11:00 pm)

For more details, visit:
www.themasskarafestival.com

You may like my other post about Bacolod:

When I went to Bacolod City in 2010 I stayed in this very cheap and affordable hostel/ guest/pension houses/ inn.


Thursday, September 27, 2012

Answer the survey and win!


Sagutin ang survey at manalo! ( Answer the survey and win!)

Nais mo bang magkapera? Sagutin lamang ang limang katanungan sa survey tungkol sa estado ng ating LTO Driver's License sa kasalukuyan. Huwag kang mag alala answerable by yes or no ang survey. Pag nasagutan mo na ang survey huwag kaligtaan mag iwan ng comment at mag fill up ng inyong pangalan, e-mail address at contact number para ma contact kayo kaagad kung kayo ang nanalo.

Good luck!

These are the things you need to do to:

1. Copy paste my contest link
http://www.travel-on-a-shoe-string.blogspot.com/2012/09/answer-survey-and-win.html You will need this link in order to join the contest. This is the answer to question #6 - On which website you entered the survey?

2. PLEASE GO TO THE SHORT SURVEY LINK BELOW. You need to answer 5 (FIVE) simple questions. Yes, it is answerable by ticking your answer on a multiple choice type of questions. Remember to click next page and fill up your complete name, e-mail address and contact number in order to enter the contest.

 
To submit your entries for the raffle, don't forget to leave your complete name, e-mail address and contact number.

REMINDER: You must participate in the SURVEY FIRST before submitting your raffle entries. Otherwise, it will be invalid.

ANSWER for # 6. On which website you entered the survey? 

Please copy paste my url as answer. Thanks!

Answer:http://www.travel-on-a-shoe-string.blogspot.com/2012/09/answer-survey-and-win.html

After answering the survey please don't forget to comment on my blog post for your entry to be valid. Thank you!

7. Go back to my website where you entered this survey and leave a significant comment through my Facebook comments or at the comment section, by answering the question:

Do you think we need to change the features of the Philippine driver’s license? Please explain in one or two sentences.

In the box below that survey please state the name you used to comment on my blog post.

 

Alam natin lahat na ang LTO Driver's License natin pwera sa pagmamaneho ay nagagamit natin bilang katibayan ng pagkakakakilanlan ( Identification Card) sa mga transaksyon natin sa gobyerno at sa mga banko.

Dahil sa kakulangan ng mga special security features ng kasalukuyan LTO driver's License napakadali para sa mga sindikato ang magpalusot ng peke na LTO Driver's License. Milyon milyon piso ang kanilang kinikita sa pangloloko sa walang kamalay malay na Pinoy :-( Sa tingin ko ay napapanahon na ang pag enhance sa kasalukuyan features ng atin driver's license na napakanipis at napakadaling mabakbak at masira. Ikaw ano sa palagay mo?

Please share your insights about this in the survey parehas po ito ng link ng survey na nasa itaas na bahagi ng post na ito.

The Prizes:

One winner of $100 or Php cash equivalent

One winner of $45 or Php cash equivalent

Two winners of Php500 of SM Gift card

* One comment per household or IP address.

Contest starts on September 27, 2012 at 12 NN and will end on October 31, 2012 at 11:59 PM.

Note: You have the option not to join the raffle but who doesn't need an extra cash, right? But of course, we thank you for participating in our survey.

Pagkatapos sumagot sa survey maari na kayong sumali sa raffle sa pamamagitan ng pag iwan ng comment at mag fill up ng inyong pangalan, e-mail address at contact number para ma contact kayo kaagad kung kayo ang nanalo. Good luck! 

NOTICE:

Congratulations to the Winners!

 


Wednesday, September 26, 2012

FREE COMPLIMENTARY PASS TO THE ROBOT ZOO: Nestle Nido Science Discovery Center


FREE COMPLIMENTARY PASS TO THE ROBOT ZOO: Nestle Nido Science Discovery 
Center.  

Yahoooooo! Mommy, Daddy, Aunt, Uncle this is good news for your kids! 

An early Christmas gift of The Robot Zoo to all of the kids and the kid-at-heart out there. Join and win! ( Sumali at manalo)
 
Have you been to the robot zoo?  The most hi-tech Zoo in the Philippines features the Robot Zoo! It features different mechatronic animals. It is available for a limited time only, so grab your chance now to see the Robot Zoo! After January 2013, the Robot Zoo will be touring to various locations in Asia, Europe and in other continents.
  
Such a cute Giraffe at the entrance of the ROBOT ZOO: Nestle Nido Science Discovery Center.
We were lucky to be invited at the Robot Zoo at NESTLE NIDO: Science Discovery Center. The little kid in us had enjoyed and had a wonderful time there.There is an interactive learning, robotics and colors that your child will be excited to experience and see.
NIDO would like you to experience good times at the NESTLE NIDO: Science Discovery Center! That's why even without a yaya you could come and enjoy the Robot Zoo, because there's a lot of staff there who are willing to help you and your kids  for a full enjoyment of the center.



A robot fly. These robots imitate the real life behaviors of some of the world's most amazing animals.
 
 Amazing facts and trivia!


I love this squid game! You can play together with three others and race to the finish line.
Play hide and seek.
The Robot Zoo was presented by Nickelodeon which can be found at the 2nd level exhibit hall Nido fortified Science discovery center Mall of Asia. 

Fees:

Robot Zoo Rates per head – P200
Robot Zoo + Nido Science Discovery Center – P500

The Zoo starts at 11am to 8pm Monday to Sunday.

Here is a chance for you to experience The Robot Zoo for FREE!
 
Join and win! There will be five (5) winners of two (2) tickets each to THE ROBOT ZOO: Nestle Nido Science Discovery Center.

This contest is open to all Metro Manila, Philippines residents. If you live outside of Metro Manila, you could still join as long as you pay for your own fare going to the Robot Zoo.

We will not be responsible for the fare going to and from the Nido Science Discovery Center.
Important Notice: All the steps in the rafflecopter are necessary in order for your entry to be valid. You are only required to do it once.

The tickets were sent to me by:

Please wait for the rafflecopter to load.  ( Mangyari po lamang ay pakiantay na mag load ang rafflecopter) Good luck!
 
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Here is the link to the rafflecopter if it refuses to load ( Kapag po ayaw mag load sa inyong computer pwede po ninyong pindotin ang link na kulay asul) : http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/977c687/

Don't forget to leave a comment. (Huwag kalilimutan maglagak ng inyong komento) You could use your facebook account if you are not a blogger or your blogger account if you are one. Non-compliance with any of these requirements will result in disqualification and forfeiture of the prize. 

In the event that a non-compliant winner was drawn a new set of winner will be drawn.

Enjoy! 


ZAC EFRON IN MISIBIS ALBAY


Hollywood Heartthrob Zac Efron is in Misibis, Albay! Zac Efron and his dad went to Legazpi, Albay via a private plane.

Zac Efron together with his father David Efron, manager Jason Barrett, and Hollywood photographer Darren Tieste reportedly transferred earlier today from a commercial flight to a private plane headed to Legazpi City, Albay for a brief holiday at Misibis Bay Resorts as personal guests of Bicolano tycoon Zaldy Co.


VIDEO: A Secret Affair Official Trailer


"Kaya Kerida kasi mga mga Kire, kaya Mistress kasi nakaka stress"- Jacklyn Jose

Rafi (Anne Curtis) is happily committed to her lovely partner in life, Mark (Derek Ramsay). She's a bachelorette from a rich family, who belongs to the "Friday Club", the regular get-together of her college friends. Rafi is an attention-getter because of her in and out beauty and impressive credentials. But one day, a major life decision shifts everyone's impression of her.

Sam (Andi Eigenmann), a rebellious, carefree and happy-go-lucky woman, who thinks that she can get away with her every dilemma. However, her perspectives turn 180 degrees when she meets the man who unexpectedly changes her life.


ENTREPRENEURSHIP TRAINING


ENTREPRENEURSHIP TRAINING

Becoming your own boss and Creating new income opportunities are just two of the benefits your will reap from this seminar. If  you have a business idea or no business idea at all, then this seminar is the one for you. This is a one day seminar that will provide you essential knowledge on how to become a successful entrepreneur by learning how to spot business opportunities.

Program of Seminar:

  1. Creating a Powerful Personal Vision.
  2. Understanding Barriers to Entrepreneurship
  3. How to Leap
  4. Definition of Entrepreneurship
  5. Spectrum of Entrepreneurship
  6. What makes them different
  7. Core 5 O’s of Entrepreneurial Attributes
  8. 4 Entrepreneurial Intelligences and corresponding tools
  9. Personal Vision, Creativity and Opportunity seeking workshop
  10. Creating action steps
  11. Declaring business idea and plans

Best attended by:

  • Employees who want to be free from having a boss
  • People who want to have a small business
  • Skilled people who want to create income from their Skills
  • Housewives who want to increase their household budget
  • Teachers who teach entrepreneurship
  • Students who want to become enterpreneurs
  • OFWs who want to learn how to grow their income
  • And eveyone who wants to create business opportunities

Seminar Details:

  • Date: October 18, 2012
  • Time: 9am – 5 pm
  • Venue: 2nd Floor Ortigas Building, Ortigas Center, Pasig City.

Mentor:

Jeff Cua eats and breathes entrepreneurship! He was born from a family of entrepreneurs and even at a young age he was already in business. He studied entrepreneurship at the University Of Asia & the Pacific and a has a masteral degree in entrepreneurship . He teaches entrepreneurial behaviour at Meridian International College and mentors entrepreneurial management students at the University Of Asia and the Pacific. Even before becoming a professor of business he has already achieved a humble amount of success as an entrepreneur. He owns a franchise of Informatics in Alabang and has won numerous awards including Best Centre of the Year, Franchisee of the Year and Best Centre for Marketing. He also owns Innove Creative Entrepreneurship Training, A provider of business training for freelancers, aspiring entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs who are seeking further growth in their business.

  • Introductory Price OFFER of  1,900.00 2,500.00

  • Pay only 1,600.00 until October 5, 2012

  • Pay only 1,800.00 until October 11, 2012

  • Pay only 1,900.00 October 12 onwards



To register:

email Jeff at info@innovetraining.com together with your
Name:_______________
Email:________________
Cellphone Number:___________________
Number of Participants: ________________
Business:________________________

Payment Method:

 BPI  payment steps:

1. Make a deposit to BPI account number 0181-0497-23 under the name INNOVE CREATIVE ENTREPRENEURSHIP TRAINING
2.Email back the deposit slip to innovetraining@gmail.com or info@innovetraining.com together with the course you wish to join.
3. We will email back for the confirmation.


Experience New York: Cycle the City


Experience New York: Cycle the City

Have you ever wondered how the locals see the Big Apple – and what makes this vibrant city so captivating? There’s no better way to discover the pulse of a bustling city than by getting up close and personal with its inner workings. Bike tours are incredibly popular across many worldly destinations, from Europe and the UK to Asia and Australia. When tourists visit New York City, however, many take a cab or jump on a tour bus, ultimately missing out on some of the best sightseeing opportunities available. When planning your holiday to NYC, don’t just visit the overcrowded tourist attractions, instead, take a bike tour of the city and discover why the locals have fallen in love with Manhattan.

Central Park

When you think of New York, you most likely think of the infamous Central Park. Covering an enormous land area of 843 acres, in the middle of New York City, cycling provides the perfect way to see all that you can in Central Park. Reputable tour companies offer various guided tours of the park, which often including sightseeing opportunities such as a trip to the strawberry fields, viewing of the Belvedere Castle, time spent at the Onassis Reservoir and a magical experience in the Shakespeare Garden.

New York City

When visiting New York, you can’t leave without a trip to all of the most infamous attractions. The city of New York is basically overflowing with famous attractions, ranging from Time Square through to the Statue of Liberty. If you want to see the best that New York has to offer, but are short on time, be sure to book in for an NYC bike tour. Most city tours include trips to Madison Square Park, Ground Zero, Little Italy, Time Square, Hudson River Parkway and Washington Square Park.

Brooklyn

Just as famous as the Upper East Side & Manhattan, yours of Brooklyn offer a unique experience to travellers, delving into the culture and heritage of the United States. A guided bike tour is by far the best way to experience all that this city has to offer, with riders having the opportunity to visit the Brooklyn Bridge, Walt Whitlam Park, the Stonewall Memorial, Washington Square Park and the Brooklyn Navy Yard.

When travelling through New York, it’s often hard to know where to begin and what to include in an already overflowing itinerary. If you’re looking at making the most of your journey with a bike tour, be sure to take a trip out to the Hamptons or other surrounding areas of the city, for some of the best views in America. Using bike racks for cars will enable you to get the most out of your time in New York, while still having the opportunity to experience this city in this best way imaginable!


Tuesday, September 25, 2012

KRISPY KREME PHILIPPINES: Nestle Chocolate Collection


KRISPY KREME PHILIPPINES: Nestle Chocolate Collection

Hmm... Nothing beats a hot cup of coffee with  doughnut! Especially if your doughnut are inspired by your favorite chocolate bars!
Krispy Kreme Doughnut inspired by BabyRuth, oh so yummy!
 
Oh, I just can't resist these sugar high snacks.
 I so love this doughnut inspired by my favorite Butterfinger Chocolate~!

 
Give your day a boost with Krispy Kreme's Nestlé Chocolate Collection which has four treats made from your all-time favorites. Get a chocolate high from one of the following:
  • NestlĂ© Crunch
  • Butterfinger
  • Kit Kat 
  • Baby Ruth Doughnuts 
So what are you waiting for?
 
I love coffee and doughnut!
 
Try them now!
Note: This is not a paid post. I just love coffee and doughnut!


Getting the Best Deal on Business Class Airfares


Getting the Best Deal on Business Class Airfares

Getting the best deal on business class airfares does not require special talent. Talking with airline representatives or having certain credit cards are just a few ways travellers can receive discounted business travel rates. Here are some features that make business class so desirable:

Seating rivals first class comfort with wider, reclining units.


Passengers receive five-star cuisine in lieu of standard airline food. Alcoholic beverages are complimentary.


Some airlines offer individual entertainment centres broadcasting basic cable channels like the cable news network (CNN).


Additional rewards include special onboard social lounges, concierge-type services and onboard business lounges equipped with facsimile (fax) machines. Some airlines provide access to special airport lounges during flight layovers. Business class is available on flights lasting over six hours to any passenger that purchases a ticket.

All the rewards come at a price. According to USA Today, business class airfare is 2 to 10 times more expensive than coach rates. Here are some methods to snagging discounted business-class rates without much hassle.

Talk Directly with Airlines

Sometimes airlines offer great deals on business class airfare. Depending on the destination, passengers receive up to 50 per cent off standard rates. Airline purchases can be highly restrictive with travel limitations based on minimum stays and advanced-purchase periods. Ticket purchases directly from airlines may allow passengers to utilise frequent flyer miles for greater discounts.

Research Consolidator Agencies

Consolidator agencies work with airlines to sell discounted tickets through travel agencies. Some offer public sales via specialized websites where customers enter an itinerary for ticket rates, call offices directly for information or bid for pricing. The companies offer tremendous discounts on first and business class airfare. Tickets are non-refundable and follow in-direct routing. Some consolidator tickets are not eligible for frequent flyer points and may include a host of surcharges.

Approach Coupon Brokers with Caution

The most questionable method of obtaining cheap airfare involves the services of coupon brokers. Brokers arrange deals between people looking to buy and sell frequent flyer miles. Buyers pay two or three cents per mile while sellers receive one cent for every mile sold. In theory, buyers use miles to reduce ticket costs and receive free upgrades. Airlines frown upon this practice and have the right to cancel reservations for anyone caught travelling with brokered miles.

Put Premium Credit Cards to Work


American Express (Amex) Platinum and Carte Blanche are two well-known credit cards that offer deals on business class travel. Cardholders that purchase one ticket from specified airlines receive another ticket following the same itinerary at no cost. Companion tickets are not eligible for frequent flyer miles and travellers are responsible for associated taxes and fees.

The above methods are highly effective in obtaining discounted airfare, but passengers must remember flexibility is important. Flyers who travel during off-peak times of the day or year receive noticeable savings. An open mind is essential to getting the best deal on business class airfares.


Monday, September 24, 2012

SHARON CUNETA:KC'S New Suitor Is A Real Man


SHARON CUNETA: KC's New Suitor Is A Real Man

A report from Inquirer Bandera posted on its official digital edition has the intriguing title: “Sharon sa bagong manliligaw ni KC: lalaking-lalaki! hindi po siya babae! (Sharon on KC’s new suitor:  a real man, not a woman!)” 

Everyone is talking about the new man in KC Concepcion's life. A Frenchman who was seen several times with actress KC Concepcion on different occasions was identified as Pierre Emmanuel Plassart.

KC CONCEPCION'S NEW BOYFRIEND?

The actress denied she is currently in a relationship with Plassart, 29, who is a photographer and filmmaker.

Plassart came from a nice family who used to own a supermarket empire.

Plassar is active in various film festivals across the world and had met KC Concepcion in an international event.
“Nagbigay siya ng star. Nasa Boracay kami so we were looking at the sky. First time daw niya makakita ng stars sa beach dito sa Philippines. Sabi niya, ‘One of those is yours.’ Hindi ko naintindihan. Parang binili niya 'yung star for me. So may isang star diyan na nakapangalan sa akin daw and then may certificate 'yung constellation kung saan naka-locate 'yung star,” she said.


Sunday, September 23, 2012

VIDEO OF MOCHA GIRLS PLAYBOY PHOTOSHOOT


VIDEO OF MOCHA GIRLS PLAYBOY PHOTOSHOOT



Metropolitan Museum Presents Claudio Bravo: Sojourn in Manila Circa 1968


Metropolitan Museum Presents Claudio Bravo: Sojourn in Manila Circa 1968.

Upon the invitation of Miss Janette Torral, I went to the Metropolitan Museum in Manila last Saturday, September 22, 2012. It was raining hard that afternoon. It took me more than three hours to reach the place. I had to leave behind my brother in the car to take the LRT. Because of heavy traffic some areas leading to the designated place are flooded. I felt like crying and almost gave up while walking in a semi-formal dress and heels. Inside my mind, I was thinking, I should have wore a more comfortable shoes, pants and shirt instead. It was a long commute, shame on me it was my first time to reach that part of Manila. Some people and guards in the street at Vito Cruz station at LRT1 don't have the slightest idea where Metropolitan Museum is.
 
Having been born and raised in the province, (promdi) it was only this year that I was able to reach the different parts of Manila. ( Thanks to some good people and PR companies who invited me to different events.) Even if my neurosurgeon prohibits me from long-haul air travel at least I was given the freedom to roam around the Metro by foot or by car as long as I have a companion which sometimes I disobey, because of ethics. If the one who invited me doesn't permit a plus 1 then I attend by my lonesome. The strength and good health that God had blessed me with, made me manage to travel  by car or by foot around the Metro and nearby places. After intently searching for the Metropolitan Museum entrance, I finally found it. At the entrance, I asked the receptionist for Miss Janet and while waiting at the lobby, I chance upon His Excellency Ambassador Roberto Mayorga of the Embassy of Chile together with visitors from Chilean newspaper El Mercurio covering the exhibit. I excused myself because I am a little wet because of the rain. After I dried my hair, I was ushered to where the action is. I researched about Claudio Bravo and was so impressed with his paintings that I saw on the net, that I was really looking forward ( really excited) to see Claudio Bravo's art works with my own two eyes. Geez! Filipinos ought to go visit the museum all over the Metro every weekend.

The Embassy of Chile and the Energy Development Corporation (EDC) are the sponsors for Claudio Bravo: Sojourn in Manila, a landmark exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila.

The exhibit commemorates the late artist on the 202nd anniversary of the Independence of Chile.The paintings of Claudio Bravo in the exhibit are those produced during his stay in Manila in 1968. These artworks are the last body of portraits Bravo would ever produce before being catapulted into the international contemporary art scene for the hyper-realist still life that eventually define his career.

Claudio Bravo looked back at his work in the Philippines as his “most lucid paintings, because it was a different race –beautiful! ...a different vision of the world and of light."

Claudio Nelson Bravo Camus was born in Valparaiso, Chile in 1936 and passed away last year in Taroudant, Morocco. He was a world-renowned hyper-realist painter. Though he was known mainly for his paintings of still life, portraits and packages, I am happy to note that according to Mrs. Tats Manahan he had also done engraving, lithographs,drawings and figural bronze sculptures. He was mainly a self-taught artist though he had taken some private art classes with academic painter Miguel Venegas Cifuentes. Claudio Bravo had his first exhibition at the age of seventeen in his hometown of Valparaíso at the prestigious Salón 13. When Claudio Bravo moved to Concepción, he ultimately became a well sought-after portrait painter after a sojourn dancing with Compañia de Ballet de Chile and acting at the Teatro Ensayo of the Catholic University of Chile.

Claudio Bravo (November 8, 1936 – June 4, 2011)
For the first time in 44 years, the portraits done by the dime-God in the world of hyper-realist painting, Claudio Bravo are shown to the public. All of the 29 portraits were lent by Manila's luminaries to make the exhibit a reality. Inside the gallery, I was astoundingly amazed at the clarity and the vivid color of Bravo's art. Though he was invited by Imelda Marcos in 1965, it was only in 1968 that the young and impressionable Chilean painter came to Manila, to attend the extravagant 40th wedding anniversary of Eugenio & Pacita Lopez. Bravo eventually settled in the Philippines for almost six months to capture and immortalize Manila's prominent alta sociedad clientele and other leading personalities.

One of my favorite portrait in the exhibit is this 1968 graphite, charcoal, conte crayon and pastel on paper impression of Claudio Bravo of Margarita "Tingting" De Los Reyes Cojuangco.  Tingting wore “a Filipina lavandera’s or washer woman’s dress” provided by her mother Lita De Los Reyes and her friend Villa Brille. Claudio Bravo asked Tingting to just let her hair down and sit comfortably by the windowsill to get available natural light. In the final portrait, the simplicity of the sheer kimona top in piña and the woven striped patadyong brought a kind of pastoral innocence to complement her lovely face, another timeless look achieved by the artist.This is how beautiful she is in the eyes of Claudio Bravo. In the artist mind, Tingting possesses not only a beautiful face and body but powerful mind as well, you can see it on how Claudio Bravo drawn her. She exudes confidence.

According to the curator, Claudio Bravo never use a photograph. Claudio Bravo work on his subjects for periods of time, even over weeks. For example, for this portrait, Mrs. Manahan said that Tingting's stand in is the yaya.
 
There was also this painting we saw inside the exhibit with a subject sitting beside his favorite dog. Mrs. Manahan told us the story behind that painting. She said that Claudio Bravo painted the person in this particular portrait for only a week but because the elegant subject's favorite dog, cannot be still for an hour or less he had to paint the dog for two weeks and the subject had to sit in with his dog for that additional two weeks. I find this story humorous and at the same time, I appreciate the love nd patience that the subject had for his favorite dog.

Mrs.Tats Manahan dispelled the rumor that Bravo charged an exorbitant rate for his work. The nasty rumor that circulated was that the painter charged for his subjects here in Manila.over US$ 5,000.00 (approximately US $ 25,000-30,000 today). Mrs. Manahan confides that the fee was roughly about US$ 1,500-2,000 at that time, nevertheless still a high and princely fee that only the Filipino wealthy can afford.
 
 Regina Dee by Claudio Bravo
Image from the Metropolitan Museum of Manila

According to Mrs. Tats Manahan, Claudio Bravo conceptualized in his mind a"Chinese lady" even before meeting Regina Dee. So when Claudio Bravo met Regina Dee, he knew she was perfect. He asked her to have a white gown with a black opera coat made and asked her to sit with the coat gathered around her as she adjusted her long white gloves. To complete the picture, he painted ominous clouds billowing in the background.

 It is said that the painter asked his dutiful subject again "to be dramatic". Bravo, as Manahan points out, had an instinctive flair for "styling". He personally select their clothing and tell them what pose to make.
The exhibit's curator, Mrs. Tats Manahan, told us that in 1961, Claudio Bravo moved to Madrid and continued to work as a portraitist to high society.  During the following decade, he painted many famous and powerful people, including the daughter of General Francisco Franco while in Spain, and the Lopezez, Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos during a trip to the Philippines.
Claudio Bravo painting Conchita Lopez-Taylor (1968)
Image from the Metropolitan Museum of Manila

"I don't want to betray myself. I have a very special talent to copy the reality, and I have tried many times to do another kinds of painting, but my friends - great painters - told me "don't be mad, you have a gift from Heaven which nobody else has."  I copy a different reality, I re-invent it, just follow my gifts. Why would I betray myself by doing another kind of painting and following the others? I like being myself, not being like anyone else, so the only way is following the gifts that God gave me.  I paint reality, and as it's full of mistakes that I don't like, I correct it."
 
Imelda Romualdez Marcos by Claudio Bravo
Image from the Metropolitan Museum of Manila

On a visit to Tangier in 1972, Bravo fell in love with Morocco.  Bravo was "fascinated by the composition of things in the country," and was "mesmerized by the use of color in every day life."  He adopted Morocco as his new home. Because he got so inspired by his new surroundings he began expanding his subject matter from portraits he devoted more time to allegories, landscapes, and the usage of a brighter color palette.

The popularity of Claudio Bravo's particular paintings made him extremely prosperous.

"The success of my pictures exceeds all my dreams," said Bravo.

 "I never thought that I was going to be so famous, so expensive. I never thought that I was going to have presidents, kings and ministers knocking at my door."

His financial success freed Claudio Bravo to choose his own subject matter, and only take the commissions which interested him.  It also enabled the artist to live like the royalty he painted, maintaining an apartment in New York City and three palaces in Morocco. 

Works by Claudio Bravo are included in the collections of the following:
  • El Museo del Barrio, New York
  • The Baltimore Museum of Art, Baltimore, Maryland
  • The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, New York
  • Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, Santiago, Chile
  • Museo Rufino Tamayo, Mexico City, Mexico
  • Museum Boymans-van Beuningen, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
  • Museum of Modern Art, New York, New York
  • Museum Ludwig, Cologne, Germany
  • The Palmer Museum of Art, State College, Pennsylvania
  • The Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Claudio Bravo lived and worked in Tangier, Morocco from 1972 onward. 

Oscar M. Lopez, Chairman Emeritus of EDC says, “In those portraits, in the glamour and spirit of the personalities he depicted, one cannot but sense the optimism, confidence, vitality and sense of pride, but also the innocence, that characterized the Philippines, and the Manila, of the 1960s.”
According to the exhibit curator Mrs.Tats Manahan, prior to Claudio's visit in the Philippines he doesn't use color in all his paintings. Mrs. Tats Manahan was happy to note that Claudio Bravo started experimenting the usage of color palette only in the Philippines.
 
Luis Araneta
Image from the Metropolitan Museum of Manila
Conchita Lopez Taylor as painted by Claudio Bravo. 
Image from the Metropolitan Museum of Manila.

 "Venus pudica" pose by Baby Araneta Fores in Claudio Bravo's eyes. This is a pose of shame. But in Claudio's interpretation this is a proud pose. With her chin up and Red dress the usual pose of shame become a pose of a person in power and control.
Chona Recto Kasten
Image from the Metropolitan Museum of Manila
Elvira Manahan was the only one captured by Claudio Bravo smiling among all the portraits he had done in Manila circa 1968. For Elvira Manahan’s pose, her fingers can be seen playfully gesturing very typical of her bubbly personality. Elvira was so animated, in fact, that Bravo never completed her portrait because she kept talking and moving about during the sittings according to Mrs. Tats Manahan.
 
Dr. Constantino Manahan by Claudio Bravo
Image from the Metropolitan Museum of Manila
 
Evelyn Lim Forbes
Graphite, charcoal, conte crayon and pastel on paper 
1968, Manila
 
Dona Pacita Lopez by Claudio Bravo
Image from the Metropolitan Museum of Manila

The exhibit will be accompanied by weekly activities on Saturdays, including a curator’s talk, portraiture lecture and a drawing session.

Schedule of Saturday activities:

1. September 22 - Portraits of Distinction. (2 sessions) 9:30am-12nn; 1-5pm at the Upper Level Bridge. Two contemporary Filipino artists spearhead a portrait sketching for artists with distinguished or accomplished Filipinos as sitters. William Gaudinez conducts the first session in the morning while Rafael del Casal facilitates in the afternoon.

2. September 29 - A ‘Still’ Life talk by Cid Reyes. 10:30am at the White Cube Gallery. Art historian Cid Reyes talks about still life painting tradition in the Philippines. His survey on the subject and still life painters in the Philippines will be followed by a still life drawing/painting session involving objects often used by Bravo in his drawings.

3. October 2 - Fashion Portraits: inspired by Claudio Bravo. (2 sessions) 9:30am-12nn; 1-5pm at the Upper Level Bridge. Drapery sketches have been one of the most exquisite creations of Bravo. ‘Draped’, in cooperation with Summit Media, features the leading stylists in the country on a draping exercise which will be followed by a sketching session of the styled models.

4. October 6 - Bravo Claudio: Curator’s Talk by Tats Manhan. 10:00 am at the White Cube Gallery. Tats Manahan will discuss the life and art of Claudio Bravo with emphasis on his connection to the Philippines in 1968. This will be followed by the curator’s walk through of the exhibit.

Source: Lopez Group Press Release 

https://www.facebook.com/lopezlinkonline
http://lopezlink.ph/special-feature/3028-bravo-claudio-bravo.html


CLAUDIO BRAVO: MANILA SOJOURN
Metropolitan Museum of Manila
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Complex Roxas Blvd. 1004 Manila, Philippines
Museum Exhibit: September 18-October 20, 2012
*Please note that the museum is close on Holidays and Mondays
Telephone #: (+632) 708-7829
Email: marketing@metmuseum.ph
Entrance fee: Php100 (applies to all ).


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