Mesmerized by Harry Connick’s blue eyes Tessa Prieto-Valdes Philippine Daily Inquirer
October 17, 2009
MANILA, Philippines—Patrick “McDreamy” Dempsey will have to step down from our Facebook photo because my new favorite is Harry Connick Jr. He obliged me with a photo after the live interview at Mandarin Hotel Landmark in Hong Kong.
On invitation of Sony Music Philippines’ Narciso Chan, I attended the CD showcase tour of crooner Harry with publicist Shirley Pizarro and the rest of the Asian media guests. The very intimate CD sampler concert was in the very chic MO Bar.
I wasn’t expecting to be so close to the artist since it was my first time to enjoy a CD showcase. It’s like a mini-concert to promote his latest album, the 24th CD in a span of over two decades with over 25 million discs sold.
Entitled “Your Songs,” multitalented Harry took a very hands-on approach to the reworking of numerous favorite classics, such as “All The Way,” “And I Love Her,” “Close To You” and “Mona Lisa,” into jazzy ballads.
With his performances in movies, Broadway and concerts, Harry is continually re-inventing himself. According to him, this new album is “easy” and just like home cooking, quite enjoyable and relaxing.
Clive Davis, the legendary producer and chief creative officer of Sony Music Entertainment, is the driving force behind the change.
Harry said he has fond memories of his concert here two years ago when he actually ate balut onstage. At the interview, he told me it was really a horrifying but memorable experience with the egg’s beak, legs and slimy stuff coming down his throat.
Catch the interview on “Showbiz Central” on GMA. His bright blue eyes will mesmerize you.
Recycling
When the interviews were over, the group enjoyed the culinary specials: Hong Kong soft-shell crabs that are in season just for two months. And what’s a trip to Hong Kong without shopping!
I noticed that several shops have started to reduce the use of plastic bags, charging extra if you need one. It encourages shoppers to use recyclable shopping bags.
In the city, we are doing our own share. The Ayala Malls have started their Greenology campaign with designer shopping bags and retail shops using recyclable materials.
To do my own share in the greening of our country, Avatar Shop and I have teamed up to create a fun line of colorful accessories using recyclable materials like Viva water bottles, soft drink tabs and snack and candy wrappers.
During one of my trips to Cebu, Avatar duo Butch Carungay and Mia Florencio took me to their factory to brainstorm ideas for the new Sea Princess line to promote recycling.
Cebu is just bustling with tourists. Shangri-La Resort Mactan was full of guests and the warm service was absolutely exceptional. They hosted the Jewelry and Accessory Fair showcasing the various Cebu exporters.
In support of our big charity event, Shang marketing lady Mildred Amon gave us a vacation package for the silent auction. The whole Shangri-La group has been so supportive with the menu preparations, floral arrangements, etc. to stage the Dennis Lustico fashion show for the benefit of Red Cross and Assumption.
Libera
Harry Connick may not be coming for a concert but one not to miss is the hit boys’ choir Libera on Oct. 25, Sunday, 8 p.m., at the PICC, as highlight of the RP-UK Friendship Week 2009.
Libera will be here as Ambassadors of Goodwill, to help with the different British programs and Children’s Hour. The nonprofit group, composed of boys ages 7-16, became famous for its unique renditions of the classics as well as some contemporary songs.
For inquiries, call 8919999 or log on to www.ticketworld.com.ph. Libera will also be performing in Cebu on Oct. 28 at Waterfront Lahug. Please call Arts Council office at 0917-3287917.
Running mag cover girl
Christmas seems to be just around the corner. Last year, I was the December cover of Town & Country. This year, I am on the cover again but for a totally different magazine. For the October-December issue of The Bull Runner, I grace the cover in my most glittery running outfit.
The Bull Runner Magazine is the first mini magazine in the country specially made for runners. It features runners who have made a difference in the running community and covers topics on training, nutrition, gear and travel. It also contains a running calendar on upcoming races and events and directory for runners. Best of all, it’s free for the taking at your favorite running stores and sports shops! Visit www.thebullrunner.com or e-mail thebullrunner@gmail.com for more info.
Enervon run
In between social events and fund-raising activities, I have still found time to run. My latest run was Enervon Prime’s Memorace for the Better Days Project of Hands-on Manila.
Enervon Prime designed a special 2.5-km race with pit stops that sought to enhance the participants’ mental prowess through games and activities. The 5-km run, meanwhile, was open to anyone who supported the advocacy and wanted to help the Better Days elderly community.
Audi golf tournament
If I wanted to find time to get back into a sport, it would be for golf. Audi Philippines has just launched the 1st Audi Quattro Cup Philippines, an invitational golf tournament on Oct. 22 at Malarayat Golf and Country Club in Lipa, Batangas.
Being the new Audi Philippines brand ambassador, I will attempt to play a decent round of golf.
The Audi Quattro Cup golf tournament series was first organized in 1991. An initial 51 tournaments with over 6,000 participating amateur golfers were held and organized by German Audi dealers.
This year marks another milestone as Audi Philippines holds the 1st Audi Quattro Cup Philippines. The tournament champion shall be sent to New South Wales Golf Club Sydney, Australia, for the World Finals on Dec. 14-18, to represent Audi Philippines in competing with other Audi dealer golf representatives from around the world.
Audi Philippines head Benedicto T. Coyiuto says the idea of bringing together our clientele’s two passions, golf and premiere European cars, is an exciting venture that will take society golf into a new dimension. The winner will have the opportunity to showcase his swinging talent while indulging in a luxury golf holiday.
For more information, call Audi Philippines at 727-0381 loc. 201.
In closing, I want to wish my sister Sandy Romualdez and the rest of the Assumption HS Silver batch a wonderful Velada celebration! Congratulations to all the celebrating jewels!
