Hello, Good-bye and Cheers!

Three years not so long ago, dahlings, this tresbien Frenchman came to Philippine shores and came knocking on doors like mine to say that his petroleum company based in France was investing millions of dollars in our country. His name is Jean Jacques Jung or JJ and the company he was setting up was called Total Petroleum Philippines Corp.

Soon the Total colors were being lighted up and motorists were being pampered with world-class service. Some nights ago Monsieur Jung declared that his stint in the Philippines was over and an equally charming expat would be taking over. Welcoming Jeff Attwood and bidding adieu to JJ were Cosmo Manille’s brightest at an enjoyable cocktail event at the tres chic Manila Peninsula Hotel, whose GM Mark Blaiklock joined the cheers to Total. Merci beaucoup!

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Shopping wisely, palanggas, now has an added treat. Starbucks, the most popular brew in town, just opened its 33rd branch at the ShopWise store at Vito Cruz Extension. In keeping with tradition, guests could order as much of any coffee variety they can drink, plus anything from pesto bread to banana cake, pecan bars to chocochip bars.

The Starbucks famille and their pals were all present, from pres. Eduardo Lopez to VP Joe Jalbuena to COO Noey Lopez and ShopWise first couple Donnie and Crickette Tantoco and their kids. Also around were Larissa Simontou and Janet Hook of Starbucks Int’l, who went on a tour of Starbucks outlets and checked out prospective sites.

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Remember, palanggas, "When all things seem to be against you, remember that Jesus Christ is always there for you." Smile. See you.