The Science and Art of Being a Fan

 

“To be a fan is to be a member of a community. A family,” this description, shared by Shem, 32, might be the perfect encapsulation of what fan culture means. From its dictionary meaning, to be a part of this subset of a community—also called a fandom—means that you become a member of a group with a shared love for a particular interest. Be it may food or pop culture, fandom behavior has spanned generations, but it continues to live until now, though in different shapes and forms.

 

For Shem, the Harry Potter fandom is something that she will always keep close to her heart. The global book phenomenon which has spawned countless movie installments, a play, and even theme parks dedicated to it has crossed generations of readers and managed to make itself relevant even after decades of its publishing. Shem, now with a daughter, is one of those kids who grew up reading about the adventures of a boy attending a magical school, and it’s something she feels remains close to her heart.

 

“It’s a little bit different for me because I grew up reading the book and it’s part of my childhood. There are fans who are so dedicated they really keep up to date with everything. I consider myself lowkey simply because I feel like Harry Potter is just a part of me–not a trend or something that will pass,” she explains.

 

Despite considering herself on the down low of fangirling, she does express her love for the culture in different ways. “Whenever I have a chance, I make sure to visit Harry Potter-related studios. I still find myself fangirling when I see items dedicated to it. I buy merch. I guess no amount of adulting will ever erase your love for the book if you are a true blue fan. If I can explain it using a different analogy, it’s like having your favorite ice cream flavor when you were a child. You might have grown up, but it still brings you joy,” she laughs.

 

While Shem is on the other side of the spectrum of being a fan, Felma, 27, sits on the more intense side of it. As a fangirl of several Kpop groups, she is a poster child of the definition of a modern fan. “I’ve attended several concerts, bought albums, collected photocards, and the like. I think it’s just part of the culture of being a Kpop fan. There is no shortage of materials for consumption and it’s so easy to connect with others with the same interest, so the community is really alive.”

 

“It’s not my first time being a fan din. Before, I used to fangirl a lot sa Western boy groups. I made so many friends during my elementary days because of it. Now, it still feels like you are a part of a community. Nag-iba lang yung interest,” she adds. “What I can say though is that once you find your favorite or bias as we call it in the fandom community, you will stay loyal to it talaga. Different flavors, but same level of dedication and love.”

 

The situation is the same for Joshua, 29, who recently reconnected with his love of collecting toys. As a child, he grew up watching the anime TV series Gundam, but it was only two years ago when he suddenly found the interest to start assembling and collecting figures when his girlfriend gave him a random box to experiment with. Now, he has a shelf full of models that he had assembled on his own and even launched a social media account where he updates about his projects and connects with other Gundam fans.

 

“I like the feeling of creating something from scratch. It’s the process for me. Also, it’s pretty cool to see that other people appreciate what you do, kahit di mo sila kilala.”

 

Shem, Felma, and Joshua may have different interests, but there is a clear underlying thread that connects them as a fan. For them, it’s all about connecting with other people, getting in touch with your childhood, and staying loyal to what you love while creating new memories.

 

“It’s similar to when you enjoy your favorite childhood treat,” explains Shem. “You love it when you’re young because it brings you happiness and even as you grow up, you still find new ways to appreciate and enjoy it. It’s like your comfort food.”

 

Talking about iconic comfort food, all three agree that ice cream might be one of the best examples of it. Spanning generations, the icy treat is something that young and old enjoy equally. These three fans, in particular, share another similarity beyond just being a part of fandom culture: they all love Oreo Ice Cream.

 

Known as the brand of iconic cookies, Oreo has now set the gold standard for cookies and cream flavor in the world of iced sweets. “I have a sweet tooth talaga. I love Oreo kasi super fun yung the way you eat it. Meron silang twist, lick, and dunk commercials, right? But I’m a big fan of ice cream kahit noong bata pa ako so I remember, when Oreo Ice Cream was first introduced, talagang hinanap ko talaga so I can try,” shares Felma.

 

“When I was younger, I wasn’t really allowed to eat too many sweets. Naalala ko, pag may natira sa baon ko, sa ice cream talaga ako nag-splusplurge,” Joshua pitches in. “So when I got older and had my own money, I made sure to indulge. Oreo Ice Cream is my favorite because it’s creamy and I love the crunch of the little cookies.”

 

“I’m a mom now and I can say Oreo Ice Cream is one of the favorites of my daughter. She’s a big fan, so much that we made it as a sort of reward for her every time she does well at school,” Shem adds. "I love that for her kasi the same way that I had something reminiscent of my childhood—I love the cookies—I know she'll have Oreo Ice Cream as that for her, too. Parang you’re making a new tradition, ika nga."

 

Just like the fandom culture, Oreo has mastered the art of creating a loyal following for its flavors thanks to the masterful way it plays with the concepts of “new” and “nostalgic.” Iconic for its cookies as it already is, the brand has sustained being a favorite of many by creating other ways to enjoy it.

 

Vinyl Gold Rush: More audiophiles troop to latest edition of ‘One Stop Record Fair’

Actress and Tambal Records Yayo Aguila and her partner

More and more audiophiles keep digging their hands for hours to score the vinyl record they have been searching for so long. Audiophiles crowded the first "One Stop Record Fair" for this year which kicked off at the new Greenhills Mall in San Juan City recently.

The quarterly music event "One Stop Record Fair" featured over 30 vinyl record sellers, such as Bunnygod Records, Tambai Records, Lennox Records, Kapitan Plaka, Musique Vibe Records, Mamsy Records, Plakatons, Ohmandys, and Perfect Day Records, among others. Vinyl records from as early as the 60s to 2020s were discounted up to 50 percent and sold for as low as 200 pesos, but everyone is welcome to negotiate and ask for discounts. First pressings are often sold for an expensive price so it's good to note for next time to bring additional cash.

Got no turntable and other audio equipment yet? Fret not because cassette tapes and compact discs (CDs) were also available at the record fair. Audio-Technica had a booth selling their audio gear such as turntables and speakers. Notable titles which are sold at the event are Bob James Trio's "Feel like Making Love" and "The World's Greatest Audiophile Vocal Recordings" both from UG34 Music; Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham's "Buckingham Nicks (Japan Pressing" and "City Pop Avenue" by Paper Moon Project from Bunnygod Records; Edie Brickell & The New Bohemians' "Shooting Rubberbands At The Sky (US First Pressing) and Charles Mingus' "Mingus at Monterey (Japan pressing mono)" from New Vintage Culture and other unique records sold.

Cubil's wife Keiko Necesario, who is also a singer-songwriter, joined him on stage to sing their song "Una." Meanwhile, director and actor Bobot Mortiz launched his 8-track vinyl album "Goin' Standard," a collection of standards popularized by Frank Sinatra, at the record fair.

"I am happy with the outcome of this event. One Stop Record Fair is indeed successful. I can say that 'our events are always successful, and it was different from previous fair since it was more fun and more people came,'" said Sari Osorio, the organizer of the record fair.

Osorio noted that the people are also more excited this time because they already know what the record fair offers and they want to get a look at what has been added to the mix since the last fair.

Get ready to get digging because the next “One Stop Record Fair will be in June 2024.

Pop Music Icon Debbie Gibson set to electrify Manila with an Electric Youth Anniversary Show!

 

Celebrating the 35th Anniversary of the mega-hit album “Electric Youth”, the record- breaking singer-songwriter-producer is set to electrify the Philippine stage in a massive 2-hour long concert full of hits and surprises on 26th April 2024 (Fri), 8 pm at New Frontier Theater! Get ready for a fun and emotional night of nostalgia and “newstalgia”, as Debbie Gibson performs favorites from the Electric Youth and her greatest hits!

 

One of the Best-Selling albums in Philippines in 1989, Electric Youth defined an entire generation and had us wearing out the cassette in our Walkman, while memorizing the lyrics to classics such as “Lost In Your Eyes”, “We Could Be Together”, “No More Rhyme”, and of course, the inspiring title track “Electric Youth”. The tracks “Who Loves Ya Baby”, “Over The Wall” and Silence Speaks (a Thousand Words) were also fan favorites from the album.

 

Fast forward 35 Years later, the album has stood the test of time, with the songs still on regular radio playlists while racking up hundreds of millions of streams on Spotify. Debbie Gibson has grown from strength to strength as a timeless force of artistry. She has tread fearlessly and successfully into multi-genres of the entertainment world. After conquering the pop world with her first 3 albums, she starred in 17 musicals over 17 years, playing iconic characters such as Eponine in Les Miserables, Sandy in Grease, Fanny Brice in Funny Girl, Velma Kelly in Chicago and Belle in Beauty and the Beast.

 

In 2020, Debbie Gibson returned to the Billboard charts with a #4 Dance Chart smash “Girl’s Night Out”. In 2021, she guest starred in “Lucifer” on Netflix, and did a successful residency at The Venetian in Vegas with New Kids On The Block member, Joey McIntyre. In the same year, she released her first album in 20 years, “The Body Remembers”, which shot to #2 on Apple Pop Sales Chart, achieving over a million streams in the first month. In 2022, she released her first holiday album, Winterlicious, and completed a sold-out Winter Tour in the USA. In 2023, she was invited to perform as the “Nightowl” in the hit TV series, The Masked Singer, and announced a book deal for her upcoming memoir.

 

Debbie Gibson shows no signs of slowing down. She was honored with the Trailblazer Award in January 2024 from The Women’s International Music Network at the 12th Annual She Rocks Awards.

 

Come celebrate with the legendary Debbie Gibson, and We Could Be Together this 26th April 2024 (Fri), 8pm at New Frontier Theater.

Flexitarian Diet: An Easier Approach to Eating Healthy

 Coming up with a wholesome meal plan could be a struggle for both experienced and new cooks alike — especially a healthy one! Scrolling through social media for a recipe worth trying could be mind-numbing. Search results for a "healthy meal” would most likely just lead to multiple choices of greens; and a drastic change in diet like this could be intimidating for most. Adapting to a flexitarian diet can be an easier approach.

This is a semi-vegetarian diet that increases the consumption of plant or plant-based foods and beverages, along with smaller meat portions. Veega provides a variety of delicious and protein-rich options such as Veega Meat-Free Nuggets and Veega Meat-Free Burger Patty — dishes that even kids will enjoy. This is also perfect for the Lenten season.

Elevate your meals with Veega — mmmeaty without the meat! Check out a variety of recipes in Home Foodie and get to shop conveniently from San Miguel Mart.

Robinsons Appliances Holds ‘Race to A Minute’ Year 5 at Robinsons Galleria

 

It was indeed an exciting and prize-filled day for the five teams who outrun and outwit each other to take home amazing prices from Robinsons Appliances’ Race to a Minute Year 5 – Manila Leg at Robinsons Galleria last March 16.

Hosted by TV host and model, Eric “Eruption” Tai, Race to a Minute Year 5 was composed of five teams from different parts of the country, who took the challenge of completing the five tasks situated at the five pits stops located inside Robinsons Galleria. Donna San Luis, Marketing Services Manager of Robinsons Appliances, shared: “We are very delighted that we’re bringing the 5th year of ‘Race to a Minute’ here at Robinsons Galleria, where players can feel the excitement and challenges we’ve prepared for them. We’re hoping that through this experience, we’re adding more fun and reasons for our customers to shop at Robinsons Appliances branches across the country.”

‘Race to A Minute’ Through the Years

Over the past years, Robinsons Appliances has been travelling the country spreading fun and excitement to its patrons through “Race to a Minute”. With millions worth of prizes that have been given away, Race to a Minute participants from Metro Manila, Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao were able various home and kitchen appliances, as well as tech and gadgets that they would love to have.

“We are very grateful for the trust and support we’ve received from so many people over the past years. We started ‘Race to a Minute’ in 2017, and despite the halt due to the pandemic, we received tremendous support from eager customers who want to experience the thrilling fun and wonderful prizes we’ve been giving away through this competition. We hope that we were able to transpire sportsmanship, camaraderie and fun among others through this friendly competition, and we hope to see more of our loyal customers in our upcoming games and surprises,” shared San Luis.

Racers from as far as Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Valencia in Bukidnon, Dumaguete, Tuguegarao, Cebu, La Union, San Pedro in Laguna, Baguio, and Metro Manila have showed their strength, speed and mastery of quizzes through the various pit stops created for “Race to a Minute.” Along with these are the numerous sponsors and partners who showed interest and support to make these each leg of the race happens.

The Final Race

This year’s Race to a Minute was divided into four legs, first being at La Union last February 24, Dumaguete last March 2, Cagayan de Oro last March 9 and just recently in Robinson Galleria last March 16. A total of 20 teams with two players each run their hearts out to receive the biggest amount that they can get to use for an amazing shopping spree at Robinsons Appliances.

Totaling to almost PHP2.5 million worth of prizes were given away for the entire race of Race to a Minute Year 5. Kenneth Viray and Liza Jan Mendez were named champions in the Luzon leg, Marie Chris Trumata and Marck Anthony Pajueles were the champions in the Visayas leg, Hannah Luison Yugtan and Daniel Lague led the Mindanao leg, and Maria Ruadil and Rogelio Castino Jr. bagged the highest prize in the Metro Manila leg. The remaining teams are also taking home some prizes that they could use for their shopping spree at Robinsons Appliances nationwide.

“As we bid goodbye to the fond and memorable memories of ‘Race to a Minute, we want our customers to expect for more exciting promos and deals from Robinsons Appliances as we continue to open more doors in different cities across the Philippine,” San Luis concluded.

Robinsons Appliances “Race to a Minute” Year 5 is co-presented by (GOLD SPONSORS) Aeon Credit Services, TCL, Midea, and Toshiba, (SILVER SPONSORS) Panasonic, Whirpool, Fujidenzo, Carries, Condura and Lex Services Warranty Expert, as well as Skyworth, Oppo, LG, Acer, American Home, Samsung, Imarflex, Konzert, JBL, Kolin, Hisense, Hanabishi, Dowell, Devant and Asahi.

For more news, updates, the latest promos, and activities, you may visit www.robinsonsappliances.com.ph or follow the Robinsons Appliances official pages on Facebook and Instagram. #RobinsonsAppliances #RaceToAMinuteYear5 #RTAM2024

MyTravel Buddy Tour Services of CEO Rowena Reyes on spotlight

Experience Travel and Living is proud to publish a customized magazine for MyTravel Buddy Tour Services of CEO Rowena Reyes. The magazine recounts her amazing journey from being a banker to a travel entrepreneur. 

It also presents  the attractive tour packages being offered. Business supporters include Casedist Inc.,Kokuryo, Moon Rabbit Cafe+ Restaurant, and FIRST Skincare. Copies are now available at Magzter, the world’s largest digital newsstand. Moreover, printed copies will soon be out in hotels and resorts nationwide.

Log in to read for FREE:

https://www.magzter.com/PH/Mode-Devi-Media-Inc/Experience-Travel-and-Living-Magazine/Travel/

One Doctor’s Daring Dual Duty

 

In the bustling world of media production, where creativity and storytelling take center stage, Dr. Erikk Cruz seamlessly blends his passion for videography with an unexpected twist—his undying love for pets. Beyond the glitz and glamour of weddings and birthdays, he steps into the limelight as a veterinarian with a heart for advocacy, showcasing his dedication to the well-being of our four-legged friends.

 

The medical man’s journey into the realm of animal advocacy begins with the creation of two distinctive shows. The first, "I Love Pets," is not just a sitcom but a unique blend of entertainment and education. With the charismatic touch of comedian Brod Pete, the show weaves together humorous narratives set in a veterinary clinic, interspersed with tutorials and infomercials on pet diseases. However, "I Love Pets" goes beyond entertainment; it stands as an acronym for protection, education, treatment, and social significance—the pillars of this good doctor’s advocacy for small animal welfare.

 

Moreover, the country’s DTH satellite provider Cignal TV, through Pinoy Extreme, becomes the purr-fect platform for the medical practitioner to share his passion with a wider audience. The show introduces humor into the serious world of veterinary care and resonates with viewers, thanks to its engaging narrative and educational content.

But Wait…There’s More!

Dr. Erikk though doesn't stop there. Enter "VET-Ko To," a mission-driven program where he extends his services to the outskirts of the bustling metro, providing government services, seminars, and a touch of entertainment. Battling through an hour and a half boat ride to reach remote islands, Dr. Erikk and his team make a ‘whale’ of an effort to bring much-needed care to underserved communities.

In Bataan and in Bulacan, "VET-Ko To" creates a unique experience for the locals by combining essential services with celebrity appearances. His mission is not just about medical assistance but about fostering a sense of community and understanding. The project's focus on zoonotic diseases—ailments that can transfer from animals to humans—speaks volumes about the importance of awareness in preventing the spread of illnesses.

The heart of Dr. Erikk's advocacy lies in the belief that a community's well-being is intertwined with the welfare of its animals. Through "I Love Pets" and "VET-Ko To," he aims to educate, entertain, and ultimately make a lasting impact on both pets and their human companions.

 

As the projects continue to evolve and adapt, this kind-hearted man’s dedication shines through. His unwavering commitment to the cause is not just a testament to his love for animals but also a call for everyone to be more aware of the interconnectedness between the health of our pets and our own.

 

In the end, Dr. Erikk's story is not just about lights, camera, and action; it's a tale of compassion, advocacy, and the pursuit of making the world a better place for every living being – great and small.

Revealing The Radiance of Sarah Skin

 

A good skincare line is crucial for women as it helps maintain healthy skin, preventing premature aging and addressing specific concerns, ultimately boosting confidence and promoting a radiant complexion. Consistent skincare also establishes a self-care routine, contributing to overall well-being and a positive sense of self.

Top of Form

In a recent interview by EXP Media Publisher Ana Manansala with the Ms. Reysan Jaramillo, the charismatic force behind skin care products Sarah Skin, the latter delved into the captivating narrative behind the brand. From its unassuming origins to its current standing as a beauty sensation, Sarah Skin isn't just a skincare line; it is an unfolding story of love, self-assurance, and entrepreneurial triumph.

 

Reysan shared that the brand emerged with a lofty goal — to sprinkle happiness like fairy dust. Acknowledging the profound impact of skin woes on confidence levels, Sarah Skin was conceived to be a remedy, a confidence-boosting elixir for those navigating the tumultuous seas of skincare struggles.

What gives Sarah Skin that extra pizzazz? It's the "touch of love" infused into every product. Ms. Reysan underscored the importance of not merely launching a brand but ensuring it carries a personal connection. The moniker "Sarah" itself is a testament to this — a name borrowed from her partner's daughter, weaving a brand that resonates with love and care, much like a cozy cashmere sweater for your skin.

Candidly, Ms. Reysan spilled the tea on the challenges faced during Sarah Skin's infancy. The first product, a scrub, faced the skeptics head-on, but positive feedback paved the way for an expanded product line. Live selling became the brand's secret weapon, winning over hearts and building a fan base that rivals the most dedicated fan clubs. Ms.Reysan   painted a vivid picture of her vision — a brand that evolves, thus bringing joy to women of all ethnicities.

 

From a trio of trailblazers to a team of 24 in just a year, Sarah Skin's growth trajectory is nothing short of a skincare supernova. The CEO attributes this success to her intuition, love for her products, and treating her employees not as staff but as an extension of the family. Scrubs, lotions, toners, shampoos — the brand's arsenal has conquered markets in lands near and far.

Ms. Reysan laid bare her leadership philosophy — not just a boss but a leader, a mentor, a nurturing force. For her, success isn't a solo journey; it's a team sport. And in her playbook, succession planning is a pivotal play, a roadmap to pass on the baton of this skincare empire to her own kin.

 

 The lady entrepreneur’s unwavering dedication to her products, her team, and her vision has given the world a brand that not only enhances physical beauty but also cradles the spirits of individuals across the globe. In the grand narrative of Sarah Skin, each bottle tells a tale of triumph, a testament to the fact that when you infuse love into what you do, success isn't just a destination; it's the journey itself.

Discover the Revitalized Vine Aesthetics in the Heart of BGC

 

 In the photo: Nico Locco, Liane Valentin and Dr. Emehly Sevilla

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Vine Aesthetics has recently undergone an exciting relaunch, marking a transformative rebranding that elevates a decade of proven aesthetic excellence to new heights. Led by the esteemed Dr. Emehly Sevilla, a prominent figure in the field, and featuring GMA 7’s rising actress, Liane Valentin, as its distinguished brand ambassador, Vine Aesthetics is setting new standards in the aesthetic industry.

Why the relaunch?

RIBBON CUTTING

The eagerly awaited relaunch of the Vine Aesthetics BGC branch involved meticulous renovations spanning over three months. Dr. Emehly Sevilla, CEO of Vine Aesthetics, revealed that the journey to relaunch began in 2020. The clinic aspired to join the wave of exceptional aesthetic clinics, adapting to the evolving changes in the industry. Dr. Sevilla emphasized their personalized approach to patient care, steering away from the one-size-fits-all strategy and ensuring tailored solutions for each unique situation.

Cutting-Edge Technology and Gold Laser Treatments

Vine Aesthetics distinguishes itself by avoiding exclusive reliance on lasers due to potential drying effects, especially for first-time clients. Dr. Sevilla emphasizes a conservative approach to using laser technologies strategically within their treatment programs. In a noteworthy announcement, the clinic is introducing the Gold Laser to their treatments. This offering minimal downtime and effectively addressing notoriously challenging cases like rosacea, facial spider veins, melasma, and hyperpigmentation.

Leaders in Hair Solutions

Despite being less known for hair treatments, Vine Aesthetics has silently become a stronghold in the aesthetic industry, particularly in advanced hair solutions. The clinic is expanding its services, now offering cutting-edge solutions for issues such as balding, excessive hair loss, and thinning. This includes non-surgical hair transplant procedures.

Bigger & Franchising Options

 

In a significant development, Vine Aesthetics is diligently working on introducing franchise options, catering to both mid-range and high-end markets. Having said that, this exciting opportunity allows entrepreneurs to enter the thriving skincare industry and expands the reach of Vine Aesthetics’ quality dermatological services.

The Grand Launch

On January 27, 2024, Vine Aesthetics unveiled its newly renovated BGC branch with a grand launch event. The celebration featured ambassadors like Nico Locco and endorsers Arthur Tselishchev, Michael Agassi, and Chef Jose Sarasola. VIP guests included the Ambassador of Monaco Ms. Fortune Ledesma, Architect Mon De Jesus, and Paolo Castro, President of Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID). The event showcased the dazzling Brand Ambassador, Ms. Lianne Valentin, marking a new chapter for Vine Aesthetics.

The success of the grand launch wouldn’t have been possible without the support of sponsors and suppliers. Special mentions go to performers BILIB, Ms. Mitch Moreno, Ms. Jennifer Juan, Ms. Trisha O’Leary, Ms. Paula Pescador, and the video & photo team led by Joshua Ke and John Cydric Rufino of One Raw Productions. Thanks also to the glam team, Eduardo Barnillo and Arturo Tolentino, and collaborators AQ Prime Music and AQ Prime Stream. Explore the exquisite offerings of Vine Aesthetics and experience unparalleled aesthetic care.