Fresh picks

By Bob Zozobrado

It’s always a joy to receive invitations to launches, openings, etc. It’s great to be part of something new. Here are some that surfaced in the Metro not too long ago.

Freshest finds

Rustan’s Supermarket recently opened a new outlet in Tomas Morato, with Mayor Sonny Belmonte, Vice Mayor Herbert Bautista, Rustan’s Group of Companies founder and chairman Bienvenido Tantoco Sr. at the forefront of the ceremonies. Guests were treated to a spread by Le Gourmet and got a sneak peek of the finest selections of meat, fruits, dairy, deli and baked products, including international and organic treats. The new store is at the lower ground floor of Il Terrazzo Mall, Tomas Morato corner Scout Madrinan Sts., and is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

Glitzy launch

The grand opening of the newest lifestyle hub in the metropolis, A.Venue, had drumbeaters, dancing lights, air dancers, belly dancers, mimes, and the gorgeous Club Mwah showgirls to overwhelm one’s senses. The Mardi Gras cum Las Vegas-themed event gathered the best of art and music to regale the high profile guests who came in droves, to be a part of the ultra extravagant party! On hand were Antel Group of Companies president Elena Jao, marketing director and developer Felino Lao and project director Nancy Coo. The spacious and cozy events mall is located at the Antel Lifestyle City, along Makati Avenue.

Volunteerism

Powerbooks, together with Hands On Manila Foundation Inc. and Anvil Publishing, recently launched Be Hands On! Inspiring Volunteer Stories at its Greenbelt outlet. The book is a collection of inspirational stories of volunteerism culled from this year’s winning essays chosen by Palanca board of judges Jaime Lim, Carla M. Pacis and Karina Bolasco. Present were basketball hero Chris Tiu, sports enthusiast Marc Nelson and former Miss Universe Margie Moran-Floirendo. Powerbooks is a complete specialty bookstore with nine branches in Metro Manila and one in Cebu City.

Bulletin board

Miracles. Bo Sanchez, much sought-after preacher and best-selling author of more than 15 books, founder of Light of Jesus Family and Shepherd’s Voice Publications, recently talked about the miracles he has experienced in his life. Asked why some people experience it while others don’t, he said, “God has created a universe pregnant with blessings. Everything we need is all around us, waiting to fall on our lap, but many times we’re not open to that blessing.” The Preacher in Blue Jeans shared how to experience miracles during the recent well-attended Kerygma Conference at the Philsports Arena, which had the theme, Awaken the Miracle in You.

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YOUR WEEKEND CHUCKLE:

At Sunday school, they were teaching how God created everything, including human beings. Little Johnny seemed especially intent when they told him how Eve was created out of one of Adam’s ribs. Later in the week, his mother noticed him lying down as though he were ill, and she said, “Johnny, what is the matter?” Little Johnny, sounding very worried, said “I have a pain in my rib. I think I’m going to have a wife!”

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For feedback, I’m at bobz@pldtdsl.net