'For he's a jolly good fellow…'

The grand ballroom of the Sugarland Hotel was the venue for the Thanksgiving Celebration of the Culmination of Sarabia Opticals Centennial Year and the 80th birthday of its chairman, Dr. Antonio Sarabia. The Mass was officiated by Monsignor Gigi Gaston whose homily was deeply appreciated by everyone. A huge crowd of high profile guests, relatives and old friends (some coming all the way from the USA), were there to greet their beloved Tony on his natal day. It's no surprise why so many love and admire Tony - he's a genuine people person. He loves life and eagerly grasps it with both hands outstretched.

On hand to help him welcome their guests was his lovely wife Nelly, who looked so elegant and stunning in her attire. (Don't you just love her Mona Lisa smile?). Nelly invited everyone to partake of the dinner. The buffet table was a mouth-watering feast of colors and flavors. Everything looked absolutely yummy! We thoroughly enjoyed the excellent red wine which flowed all evening.

There was a video presentation of the Launching of the Sarabia Opticals Centennial Celebration which was held at the Ayala Museum on Feb. 22, 2006. This was hosted by popular TV personality Korina Sanchez. A lot of VIPs graced the occasion. After the video presentation, a program was held featuring song and dance numbers performed by the members of Tony's family. A well-applauded number was their interpretation of the song, "The More I See You" (the Sarabia family theme song).

The children of Tony and Nelly gave a touching tribute to their parents. With Pancho Uytiepo on the piano, they sang their parents' favorite love songs of yesteryears. When their theme song, "A Love Affair to Remember", was sang, Nelly joined her husband up front and the two lovebirds held hands to the delight of the crowd. Tony had the time of his life singing their favorite songs. (The guy can sing!). A special number was presented by the famous Sunshine Boys who sang, You Are My Sunshine (But, of course!). It was heartwarming to see these aging silver-haired gentlemen sing with such gusto and enthusiasm. Personally, I think people like them will never grow old because their hearts will remain forever young. The dancing crowd had a ball till the wee hours. Wotta party! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TONY!*