A birthday with a heart

“It is wisdom to believe the heart.” — George Santayana

The Grand Ballroom of the multi-Kalakbay awardee Mandarin Oriental Manila was jampacked with well-wishers as the philanthropist and timeless beauty Rosemarie “Baby” Arenas and the equally vivacious daughter Rep. Rachel Arenas tendered a launching-cum-birthday-celebration. The launching of the compassionate mother and daughter’s H.E.L.P. (Health, Education, Livelihood Program) was replete with a fantastic musicale mini concert. The queue of guests, which included President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, former First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos and House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr., as well as a mix of Rachel and Baby’s friends, government officials, businessmen, socialites, diplomats and members of media, was endless.

The mood of the place was jovial as violinist Jay Cayuca and the Madrigals serenaded the guests with a beautiful repertoire. Everyone was impressed with the super efficient Mandarin Oriental staff as they rendered their customary first-rate service. The night ended with a touching speech and song number by Rachel.

Congratulations and a happy birthday to you, Baby!

When two arts beat as one

It was obvious from the start that the very first joint art exhibit of the mother-and-daughter tandem of Marissa and Mariel de Leon-Lopa at the Mezze! Restaurant at Greenbelt 2 in Makati would be a huge success. Aside from the beautiful masterpieces they painted, Marissa and Mariel’s charm can give even Mona Lisa a run for her money. Aptly titled Random Art, the exhibit invokes random artworks of the varied places that touched their hearts during their many travels. The must-see event had a huge turnout of friends and guests. It was indeed a truly exhilarating experience. 

To Marissa and Mariel, bravo!

Johnny says, ‘Check this out’

Recognized for its dedicated service and integrity, the Red Cross will launch a fundraising endeavor “Partners in Service” tomorrow, Aug. 13 at 5 p.m., Manila Polo Club, Makati City.

Good luck and more power!

GREETINGS

Happy birthday to our celebrators today, civic minded Gina Lopez, Tito Tesoro, actor Aga Muhlach and Ramon Zaragosa.

Advance birthday greetings to ABS-CBN big boss Gabby Lopez, Baby Araneta and Marilou Soriano, Aug. 13; former Rep. Joe Zubiri, business scion Beaver Lopez, restaurateur Beng Dee, George Lopez, designers Noli Hans and Auggie Cordero, Aug. 14; socialite Asunta Bilbao and actress Pinky de Leon, Aug. 15; Baby Almendras, STAR columnist Rod Nepomuceno and Bank of the Philippine Islands president Aurelio “Gigi” Montinola III, Aug. 16; Freddie Elizalde and marketing whiz Mark Dy, Aug. 17; lay minister Robert “Bob” del Rosario, Larry Amante, lady executives Marilen Tantoco and Marivic Madrigal Vasquez, Aug. 18.

So, how was your week?

(For comments or inquiries, please e-mail me at jjlitton@indanet.com)