TOPIC: Something happened in the past but is still applicable now

I am a bit confused by a situation when I have to describe something in the past but which is still true now. In such situation, should I use present tense or past tense?

e.g. Last week, we went to the supermarket to buy some rice but as it was too heavy for me to bring it to the counter. I therefore asked Peter to help as he WAS the strongest in our group.

Question: Peter is still the strongest now. Should I use "was" or "is"?

e.g. My mom asked me to eat pineapple yesterday but I didn't as I DO not like its smell.

Question: Should I use "do" or "did"?