These Angels are making waves!

The Christmas hype may be dying down as everyone is looking forward to a new year ahead, but the spirit of togetherness in the family should continue on all year round. And I know just the place where you can spend the last few days of 2010, or where you can start your 2011!

Don’t waste any moment of your short Christmas break and spend as much time with your family with a last minute holiday treat at the Araneta Center in Cubao, Quezon City and watch the Angels of the Sea Dolphin and Sea Lion show from December 25, 2010 to January 2, 2011.

Catch the talented dolphins Tutti and Fruity as well as the very adorable sea lions Jello and Jelli as they amaze you with some of their tricks and top-notch performances you would’ve never imagined these sea creature could do. And if you’re lucky, you can even get a kiss from one of the dolphins –like I have!

To add to this, these Angels of the Sea are not only meant to entertain their audience but the other side of the coin is that they are putting up this show to also raise awareness about the importance of preserving marine life.

Mr. Jose “Gogoy” Avelino, spokesperson of IndoFil Seawonders, an organization which promotes the welfare of the living creatures under the sea and who brought the Angels of the Sea show here in Manila, believes that they will be able to contribute significantly in the realization of their advocacy, Save the Ocean, Save Marine Life.

“It is very easy to forget the plight of these sea creatures with the various concerns of everyday. Fortunately, it becomes easier to empathize with their situation once people are reminded of this through the dolphin and sea lion show,” Mr. Avelino shares.

Children of all ages will surely enjoy this event and learn a thing or two on how to further take care of our sea’s angels. So make this a family affair and let these Angels of the Sea guide you towards a blessed year ahead and a better future for marine life!

Tickets are available at all Ticketnet outlets. Prices are at P742 for VIP and P530 for Upper box seats. For inquiries, please call 911-5555.

 

http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/insideLifestyle.htm?f=2010/december/30/lifestyle1.isx&d=2010/december/30

Do a good deed with the help of Pizza Hut!

Make every day, Christmas day

By: BZ

Santa Claus is coming to town once again and whether you’re young or old you just have that feeling inside that makes you want to be extra nice rather than naughty, this time of the year.

It’s like Christmas is a reason in itself to do something good, to simply indulge a little more on the good stuff, and to sometimes even take advantage of the good that others are doing for us. Christmas just has the power to bring out the good in each person that the common line we Filipinos say “Sana araw-araw pasko” (I hope everyday is Christmas day) is something that we unconsciously wish for whenever you start seeing Christmas lights and hearing Christmas songs.

The Christmas spirit has the power to bring people together to do good things but other than this season, it seems like only the aftershocks of severe weather calamities is what brings people together in all the other months of the year.

“We don’t need another calamity for us to come together and help others,” actor, United Nations World Hunger Relief Program volunteer and founder of K.I.D.S. Foundation Diether Ocampo says.

The constant fight against hunger worldwide has never ceased and the rumbling stomachs of children are getting louder and louder here in the Philippines, most especially in conflict-affected Mindanao.

A big number of Filipino children who are not able to eat the right foods in the right amounts every single day go to school with no energy to learn because all they think about are their rumbling stomachs caused by hunger. Imagine if you’re able to silence this and fill that hole in their tummy for every meal that you buy for yourself making your dining experience at Pizza Hut or Taco Bell can be a charitable act in itself!

You can help provide nutritious meals to 76,000 elementary school students in the conflicted areas of Mindanao with every order of the Pizza Hut-WFP Bundle Feast. Pizza Hut restaurants will give 10 pesos to the World Hunger Relief campaign with every purchase of this meal, while a customer donating 40 pesos will receive a Christmas card signed by Diether Ocampo. An order of Nachos Bellgrande Combo Meal at Taco Bell will likewise put aside 10 pesos for this same endeavor, until the end of the year.

From L to R: Diether Ocampo-World Hunger Relief Programme Volunteer,
Stephen Anderson-Country Director UN-WFP
Lars Peterson-Pizza Hut and Taco Bell COO showing the WFP Christmas postcard

“We can do a lot of things if we do it together,” Diether shares. So while it’s still December, drop by any Pizza Hut or Taco Bell branch after a long day of Christmas shopping and do a good deed by feasting on any of the two meals for the beneficiaries of the World Food Program. It’s never too late to be on Santa’s “Nice” list! 

*Photos from pizzahut.com and Mr. Manny Palermo

Breaking John Lloyd into pieces

By: BZ

When you get a glimpse of his seemingly bashful smile, to fall for him is simply inevitable. Though his expressive eyes speak louder than anything else he can possibly utter, when he begins to speak, the whole room fills with silence.

John Lloyd Cruz. DUH.

And in his cheery voice you’ll hear him say, “Ang tahimik niyo naman! Magsalita naman kayo, hindi naman ako si God!”

Yes, of course he’s not God –but John Lloyd Cruz’s undeniable charm, outstanding and praise-worthy acting abilities has already brought about a cult-like following.

What we all know

One of the most bankable actors to date, he’s been called a box-office king and a teleserye heartthrob because of the good reviews and ratings of the numerous projects he’s done. He’s become one of the best leading men in the industry, having the chance to be paired up with soap opera and movie queens and princesses, a concert super star, and even with a famous VJ and TV host who’s a straight-up man like he is.

As an actor, he has had his own share of the intrigues and gossip-filled nature of the industry he’s in. But in spite of his celebrity status, John Lloyd still seems to be grounded enough to stay as simple as he is, enjoying all the little good things in life.

The little things we don’t know

HUGE Greenwich Pizza

1. Though he loves to eat, John Lloyd does not know how to cook. In his downtime he’d rather sit down and eat out or eat in with his family and close friends. You’ll be surprised, but he’s at his most comfortable even when it’s just tuyo (dried fish), egg and sinangag (fried rice) that he’s eating. He considers authentic Pinoy food as his most favorite cuisine, but he enjoys eating out and trying new restaurants when he can.

Whenever he gets surprised by friends at home or during a shoot, John Lloyd would always turn to Greenwich for a delicious meal that he can always depend on for a fast casual dining experience that’s always a sure-fire hit.

2. In many foreign places, most florists are men. If John Lloyd was not an actor, he would’ve wanted to be a florist. He’s a real man, alright –who just happens to love flowers. He says this is most likely because real men know the kinds of flowers that different kinds of women want because they’re the ones who often give out flowers. Now, would there still be any girl who wouldn’t want to receive flowers?

3. We all know that John Lloyd’s part of the Greenwich barkada who enjoys all the scrumptious pizza and pasta offerings of the restaurant. So I asked him, if Greenwich were to create a “John Lloyd Cruz” pizza, what would be on it? His answer?

“I want it to be full of cheese, and garlic. ‘Yun lang.”

I asked him why just these 2 ingredients and he said it’s because he likes his pizza to be paired up with all kinds of pasta dishes that’s why he wants to keep it simple and not overpowering no matter what he’s paired up with. Goes to show how he is as a no-fuss foodie, and as a flexible leading man who knows how to complement his partner.

4. He may not seem to be the sporty type of guy, but if only he had more time to do things other than his work, John Lloyd would like to go back to his favorite hobby/sport: mountain biking.

5. After all his projects are done, John Lloyd’s planning on travelling to Europe next year. He really enjoys going to different places and he’s lucky to be able to do that because of his job, but he’d really want to travel for leisure while he’s young.

“I’d like to travel as much talaga while I’m still young, habang may energy pa,” he says.

What we want to know

So we already know that one look from him can leave you dumbfounded, whether you like it or not. He’s obviously a great actor, but also an aspiring foodie and traveler. We also know that he wants to be a florist and he likes biking.

Celebrity or not, there’s always a lot more to know about a guy and John Lloyd’s no different. But not because he’s famous, he’s already public property and we should know everything about him. I think it’s better to leave a little curiosity in our system.

Besides, one look from him can already answer any doubt in your mind. And when he smiles… would you still need to ask for anything more?

Mandatory photo op. :))

http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/insideLifestyle.htm?f=2011/january/5/lifestyle4.isx&d=2011/january/5

You're weird if you don't like Chuck.

Who is Chuck?

By: BZ

When I was told that I was going to visit Chuck’s Deli in Serendra at Bonifacio Global City I thought I was going to interview a guy named Chuck. I assumed he’s probably a chef –can be half-Filipino but raised abroad, or maybe a complete foreigner. But when I got there and met deli owners Marco and Chef Kat Alcantara, the first question I had in mind was, “Who is Chuck?”

So I tried to learn more about Chuck and the menu says it all –Chuck loves deli sandwiches. He likes his sandwiches to be big not only in size (most are half a kilo), but also in flavor. Chuck seems to be very meticulous with his sandwiches because the variety of breads and ingredients he’s put together all seem to be in perfect harmony when it comes to taste. Reading the menu already made me feel like I’m gaining weight!

Thanks to Marco and Chef Kat, I really felt like I did gain a few pounds after tasting some of Chuck’s sandwiches. The first one that I tried was the Salmon Flatwich The combination of the salmon’s smoky bitterness together with some capers, crème fraiche and arugula in a flattened herbed focaccia bread is a new sensation for me since I don’t really get to have a sandwich as simple and yet sophisticated as this, so it was a good way to begin the whole taste-testing journey.

SUPER LONG hoagie bun for the Philly Cheese Steak

The second sandwich that I had was a good old Philly Cheese Steak subwich. Imagine a long and soft hoagie bun hugging juicy strips of beef, melted cheese with some onions, bell peppers and mushrooms…for the extremely hungry this sandwich is good for you. But if you’re feeling generous, this heavenly sandwich is good enough for two.

Next in line for me was “The Buffy”. I was warned by Chef Kat about this one, because in the middle of two thick slices of ciabatta bread lies ‘the buffy’ or spicy Buffalo chicken with some garlic sauce and coleslaw. The Buffalo chicken was expectedly hot and it was, in its own right, but what made me not finish my share of this huge sandwich was the Chuck’s sauce combined with ‘the buffy’. Chuck’s sauce is made up of really spicy homemade hot sauce and garlic sauce. With Chuck’s Double Fried Fries, this sauce is tolerable –but with ‘the buffy’? Oh it’s a challenge I have yet to overcome! 

The Buffy! REALLY BIG CHUNKS of Buffalo Chicken

And everyone else will soon be able to take on the challenge once Chuck’s “Slay the Buffy” game begins. For fame or for shame, you’ve got to try and slay the buffy at Chuck’s deli or else it’s like you’ve never been to Chuck’s at all.  

California Maki on a bun! YUM!

The Reuben :)

“The Buffy” may have made the foodie in me take a quick break from the whole taste-testing activity but it didn’t stop me from the trying out everything else on the table. The crunchy bread complementing the generous amount of kani, mango, egg, lettuce and wasabi mayo in the California Wacky slabwich reawakened my senses. The tolerable spice and exquisite texture of homemade Angus corned beef, swiss cheese, sauerkraut, mustard and Chuck’s sauce in ciabatta bread make up the classic Reuben slabwich.

Jessica’s Melt(down) slabwich redefined what I have always thought a tuna sandwich could ever be with the overflowing tuna chunks, mayo, American cheese, lettuce, cucumber, tomato, Chuck’s sauce and your choice of pickles or jalapeno. And even when I was on the verge of spacing out due to being overstuffed, admittedly I was still able to enjoy one of Chuck’s hefty burgers on poppy and sesame seed-sprinkled buns called The Reudi burger. 

The Reudi Burger. REALLY GOOD.

After all the carbs, I realized that there’s a great reason for the long list of thirst-quenchers in the menu because Chuck’s sandwiches and burgers are best paired with carabao milkshakes made of Arce Dairy ice cream, soda, a bottle of beer, or a glass of wine.

There. I’ve told you about my experience at Chuck’s deli, but yes, I know. The question still remains… Who is Chuck?

Finally, I got to ask Chef Kat who Chuck is and she said, “Chuck is just a single syllable, American-sounding name. We just wanted our customers to have the idea of our deli being a legit American sandwich place.”

And it is true. That is exactly what you can expect because that’s exactly what you’ll get from every flavorful meal at Chuck’s Deli, and I can attest to that!

So whenever you’re craving for some authentic American deli sandwiches and burgers of the best kind, get to know your inner “Chuck” and simply indulge at Chuck’s Deli!

 http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/insideLifestyle.htm?f=2011/january/26/lifestyle1.isx&d=2011/january/26

Shop til you drop!

The perfect season to be fashionable

By: Bettina

 

There are just 12 days to go before Christmas and everyone’s already feeling the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping at the malls and on the city streets. Everyone’s getting busy and excited looking for the best finds to give as gifts for their loved ones, and for themselves. 

With its recently concluded annual holiday fashion show featuring this season’s most fashionable outfits, the Shangri-La Plaza proves that it’s the best place to be in for a delightful shopping experience that’s worth the once-a-year indulgence.


Stay cool and chic in the holiday bohemian look –from long paisley dresses, scarves, and printed pants to jackets, coats, cardigans and boots, its casual and comfort quality clothing at Mango, Topshop, Warehouse and Zara.

Mango

Zara

Topshop

Warehouse

For the young and hip, Tough Jeansmith, Kira Plastinina, and The Ramp should be on top of your list for shops to visit for all things loud, fun and funky. A/X and M) phosis offer a more neutral palette, but their designs are as excitingly wearable and fashionable all year round.

Kira Plastinina

Armani Exchange

M)Phosis

Toughjeans Smith

If you’re up for a lot of cocktail events and Christmas get-togethers, shops like Celine and Mico Boutique are sure to offer the best dresses in various colors and designs that fit every woman’s taste. While Diesel, Original Penguin, Marlboro Classics and Celio has everything for the modish men—whether you’re the sleek, rugged, or the preppy type.

Celio

Original Penguin

Mico

Those hard at work can never go wrong with classic colors, designs and silhouettes from Liz Claiborne, Polo Ralph Lauren, K & Co., Bergamo, Daniel Hechter, Anne Klein, and Kenneth Cole.

Anne Klein

Kenneth Cole

Polo Ralph Lauren

The latest lines from Debenhams, Marks & Spencer, GAP, Crossings Department Store, Periwinkle, PJ Sleepwear, Bossini, and Rustan’s Department Store offer fashionable outfits that men, women and children can wear and show off this season.

Marks & Spencer

Bossini Women

Rustan's

Crossings

No one is ever too young or too old for Christmas, and no one is too young or too old to be stylish. Make sure you spend this perfect time to flaunt your jolly good self and be at your best—while looking your best with the latest holiday collections from some of the most popular international and local brands only at Shangri-La Plaza.


http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/insideLifestyle.htm?f=2010/december/13/lifestyle1.isx&d=2010/december/13

Feelin' like it's Christmas

Three sides of the Triangle: Sights, sounds & scrumptious food

By: Bettina

 

Who doesn’t love seeing all the wonderful lights and parols hanging on trees every time it’s Christmas?

Is there anyone who doesn’t get a good vibe when listening to joyful Christmas tunes?


Tell me, is there really anyone who wouldn’t indulge in delicious food every time it’s December –and would use ‘the holidays’ as an excuse for gaining all that weight that they’re already planning to lose as part of their New Year’s resolution?


I don’t think you’ll be able to name anyone.


Because young or old, I don’t think there is anyone who won’t enjoy the lights and sounds show as well as all the newly opened restaurants this holiday season at the Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati.


Be enlightened and amused
It took 250,000 LED bulbs, 16 intelligent lights, eight laser lights plus a couple of ColorBlast and ColorReach PowerCore lights to create Ayala Land’s “Symphony of Parols” Lights and Sounds show for visitors of the Ayala Triangle Gardens to enjoy.

Remarkably, the use of LED lights has led to 74 percent power reduction compared to before (from 87,000 watts to 23,000 watts), giving us all more reason to celebrate and fully enjoy the show this year.


“This year’s show has impressive light spectacles highlighting more colors,” explains multi-awarded light designer Voltaire de Jesus.


“The light show is complemented by the work of renowned sound engineer Jethro Joaquin whose musical score is fun and contemporary, with a distinctive theatrical feel,” he adds.


Unconsciously you’ll just hear yourself say “wow” as the show progresses because it’s just simply an impressive sight to behold. With only the latest technology used plus a touch of artistic flair, the “Symphony of Parols” Lights and Sounds show is definitely a must-see for family and friends to visit together this season.

Make a wish?

Everyone's feeling the Christmas vibe

It's raining lights

The “Symphony of Parols” Lights and Sounds show will run on weekdays until Dec. 23 (every 30 minutes), with special weekend shows on Dec. 18 and 19.


Feeding the spirit of Christmas
More reasons to make every day of December feel like Christmas are all the new and distinctively chosen restaurants that you can find at the Ayala Triangle Gardens.


The 12 restaurants that have just recently opened at the Gardens showcase a unique mix of restaurant concepts all in an al fresco dining format.

Experience authentic Italian food at Amici di Don Bosco and Caramia Gelateria, or go for some really good gourmet dishes like cheesesteak, specialty burgers, and more at CBD or MOMO Café.


Delight in all the Asian flavors offered in the wide array of Asian food at Bon Chon Chicken, Kanin Club, Omakase, Pho 24 and at Wee Nam Kee.


Take pleasure in your own choice of comfort food amongst the lush greenery at Banapple Pies and Cheesecakes, BFast All-day Breakfast Café, The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, or Golden Spoon’s Frozen Yoghurt.


Feel the vibrant Christmas spirit in one of the most exciting venues in the metro and have a blast with the multi-sensory experience you’ll find in the lights and sounds show and in all the restaurants at the Ayala Triangle Gardens this season. Enjoy the holidays!


http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/insideLifestyle.htm?f=2010/december/10/lifestyle3.isx&d=2010/december/10


*some photos are by N. Leoncio's Pinocchio