Iloilo Gastronomy Book Wins Prestigious Gourmand Award

Iloilo Gastronomy Book Wins the Prestigious Gourmand Awards!

Iloilo City continues to shine on the global stage of gastronomy! The book “Gastronomic Expressions of Our City, Iloilo: Nature, Culture, and Geography” has been recognized at the 31st Gourmand Cookbook Awards 2025, winning Best in the World in its category: B25 UNESCO City of Gastronomy Book, Best Publishers Series.

“Instead of simply sharing Ilonggo recipes, it offers a multifaceted, deeply academic, philosophical, historical, and cultural exploration of Filipino Gastronomy via Iloilo's foodways and culture,” Ige Ramos, Conceptual Framework and Creative Director said.

“This beautiful volume is more than a book; it's a love letter to Iloilo's rich culinary heritage, a celebration of the land, sea, and people who make our city's gastronomy truly extraordinary. From our endemic ingredients to the hands that cultivate and cook them, every page tells the story of what makes us a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy,” Iloilo City Government said in a statement.

Meanwhile here's the AI Overview

The 

Iloilo Gastronomy Book was honored by the prestigious Gourmand World Cookbook Awards, which announced it as a finalist in its category. This achievement recognizes the book's importance in documenting the culinary heritage of the Ilonggo people. The book is known for weaving together stories, traditions, and recipes that showcase the region's diverse flavors. 

• The Iloilo Gastronomy Book was named a finalist for its contribution to preserving Ilonggo culinary heritage.
• It has been recognized for its role in documenting the region's traditions, landscapes, and communities through food.
• The book was a finalist in its category at the 31st Gourmand Awards.
• This award highlights the growing global appreciation for regional Filipino cuisines and cultures.
• The book serves as both an archive and a celebration of Iloilo's unique gastronomic identity. 
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• Iloilo City is My Place of Birth- December 20, 1934
• Meanhile, 

  

  BREAKING: Donald Trump launches demeaning and sexist tirade at female reporter for asking him why his stupid ballroom is going to cost so much!
  The president of the United States, laser-focused as always on the biggest priorities facing the American people, took to Truth Social to explain why the gigantic eyesore of a ballroom he’s building where the East Wing used to be is costing more than previously expected and trashed CNN’s Kaitlan Collins for asking those pesky questions with answers he doesn’t want to give.
  “Caitlin Collin’s of Fake News CNN, always Stupid and Nasty, asked me why the new Ballroom was costing more money than originally thought one year ago. I said because it is going to be double the size, and the quality of finishes and interiors has been brought to the highest level. Also, the column SPAN has been substantially increased for purposes of viewing.”
  “It is actually under budget and ahead of schedule, as my jobs always are. It’s just much bigger and more beautiful than originally planned. Interestingly, and seldom reported, there are no taxpayer dollars involved. It is being fully paid for by private donations. FAKE NEWS CNN, and the guy who runs the whole corrupt operation that owns it, is one of the worst in the business. Their ratings are so low that they’re not even counted or relevant anymore. MAGA!!!”
  This is the third time in a month that Trump has exhibited truly repulsive hatred and anger towards women who dare to challenge him; his racism is also reaching new lows, as evidenced by his appalling speech about how Somali-Americans are “garbage.”
  His dementia is accelerating, and with it is an intensifying venom towards anyone and anything that bothers him. He clearly does not have the mental temperament needed to be the President of the United States and should be removed immediately. 25th Amendment now!

  
  

  Finally,

  

  
  
  

Time to Say Thank You to Our THD Staff-PerplexityAI and Me

It's time of the year, to give back and show Gratitude to the People who have served and touched your life the whole year here at THD. It's Christmas time and time to remember our efficient servers at Newtons as well as your housekeepers and other THD employees( drivers, concierges) who went out of the way and served you beyond their call of duty this year. The above is the employee list updated for 2025.

Several new THD residents have asked me what is the customary tradition in giving Xmas gifts( TIPS) to the Staff.

I told them, that there is no customary traditions, but in general the residents gave Cash Gifts or Checks, either individually or as a Group ( All servers and All Cooks). 

What I have done the past two years, is to give cash gifts in individual envelops. I also gave Eats/ Chocolates/ Lumpia as a Group in the Front Desk.      

I know a lot of residents, just gave one Check or Cash and just gave it to Carmen or Joel for equal distributions to their servers and assistant cooks. 

Speaking of The Christmas Spirit and also at the Eve of my 91st birthday, I have requested and have been approved that we will have Lumpia served in the Appetizer at our December 19, Friday Cocktail Hour. I also requested that Alex, the Russian, provides our Music. Indeed, I am looking forward for our December 19, Friday, Cocktail Hour. I hope to see you All then.

 Meanwhile, 

If you are following my daily blogs, you probably know I am into AI for the last 6 months. I have been experimenting on three AI Apps, ChatGPT, PerplexityAI and GrokAI. This posting is from Perplexity AI. I have posted previously on the same topic, what ChatGPT and GrokAI knows about me. The tone and style of writing is very different, although most of the contents are the similar since it is based on the 17 Chapters of My Autobiography.    

Me and My Youngest Grand Daughter, Carenna Katague Thompson

A Life of Inquiry:  The Story of David B. Katague : David B. Katague stands as a remarkable example of lifelong curiosity and creativity, blending science, art, and humanity across decades of experience. Born in Iloilo, Philippines, and later a proud Filipino-American immigrant, David's life is notable for achievements in chemistry, writing, and community leadership. His scientific background has been matched by a passion for literary and creative pursuits, including running a personal blog that documents his journey, discoveries, and evolving perspective on culture and society.

Blogging: Curating Stories Across Cultures David is an avid blogger with interests ranging from autobiography to art analysis, travel stories, and headline news. Seventeen thoughtfully written chapters of an autobiography, featured on his personal blog, highlight his journey to his coming 91st birthday, emphasizing insight, gratitude, and the richness of a multicultural life. He is known for commissioning drafts, arranging posts by thematic collections, and performing editorial analysis of topics, ranging from film narrative careers to reflections on major news events, like the collapse of the FDA and global politics.

Voice Recital with Minda Azarcon-Pinole, California

Music, Art, and Cultural Passions

An aficionado of music, particularly in classical vocal and performance spheres, David regularly explores both the artistic and technological sides of musical creation. He’s passionate about the history and artistry of figures such as Fernando Amorsolo and Martin Wong, often displaying deep appreciation for Filipino fashion exemplified by his posts on the terno and barong, as well as for contemporary global musicians like Dimash Qudaibergen. His inquiries extend into philosophical topics like the creativity linked to handedness and the science-religion interface, as well as karaoke culture and evolving performance art.

Researcher, News Curator, and Travel Enthusiast

David’s blog showcases a blend of independent research and real-time news curation. He is a regular reviewer of world news, US politics, and scientific developments from earthquake data and medical advances to analysis of presidential approval ratings and legal controversies. Travel is another enduring interest: posts share stories of adventurers like Luisa Yu and personal narratives about hiking logistics and memories, covering everything from trekking obstacles to the marvels of iconic locations.

Personal Reflections and Later Life

As David approaches his 91st birthday, his blog becomes a reflective space, a mosaic of gratitude, contemplation, and advice to younger generations. He not only explores topics like senior living and health management but also reflects on personal milestones and familial bonds through his writing, aiming to inspire and connect with a global audience.

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David B. Katague’s digital footprint is a testament to a multifaceted life, one enriched by scientific rigor, creative exploration, and a ceaseless quest for knowledge and meaning. His blog stands as a living archive, a place where art, science, travel, and news convene under the thoughtful gaze of a lifelong learner.

Lastly, My Food For Thought For Today

Related Articles: GrokAI and ChatGPT Response to the Query: Who is David B Katague

https://chateaudumer.blogspot.com/2025/07/grokai-response-to-my-query-who-is.html

https://chateaudumer.blogspot.com/2025/05/david-b-katague-according-to-chatgpt-in.html

Continuous Remote Health Monitoring For Seniors-My Budd Watch

Yesterday, I got a Budd 💜Watch for Free. It was from a Personalized Demo of Vitalfriend, Inc session with Gourab Kohli, Founder & CEO.  Looking forward to enjoying this watch in addition to my Apple Watch.  Our very-own Jenny Shively took photos during my personalized acquisition and I am posting it below. 

Revolutionary Continuous Remote Health Monitoring for Seniors and personalized AI benchmarks. 

Meanwhile here's information from the Vitalfriend.com website.   💚

💚VitalFriend represents a groundbreaking innovation in senior healthcare through our FDA-approved BP watch (cuff based) - the first-ever wearable device capable of continuous blood pressure monitoring. This unique technology transforms traditional episodic health tracking into seamless, real-time health management. At  VitalFriend, we understand that senior care is more than just assistance, it’s about providing safety, security, dignity, and peace of mind.

Our BUDDI (Biometric Unified Data Delivery Interface)💜 wearable continuously monitors four critical vitals: blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation, and body temperature. Unlike existing wearables that provide limited health metrics, our FDA-approved device delivers comprehensive, medical-grade monitoring that integrates seamlessly with other RPM devices like smart scales and glucose monitors.

This proactive approach fundamentally shifts senior healthcare from reactive treatment to preventive care, potentially extending longevity and improving quality of life. Healthcare facilities benefit from automated documentation, reduced staff workload, and enhanced patient monitoring. Doctors receive daily vital sign reports through Continuous Remote Patient Monitoring (CRPM), enabling more informed care decisions.

Implementation is remarkably simple: "wear it and forget it." The device requires no complex setup, manual recordings, or constant user interaction. One-click manual readings are available when needed by the care takers, but the system operates autonomously, making advanced health monitoring accessible to seniors regardless of their technical proficiency. This seamless integration ensures continuous care without disrupting daily routines. Below are the specifications and FDA Number.

Gaurav and I  

PersonalNote:

At Our Dinner last night, I showed proudly my new Budd Watch to a fellow Resident Couple, my neighbors and Chair VolleyBall friends. They told me they have tried it for 2 weeks and were not too happy and they returned the watch. Some of the reasons they cited was that the watch woke him up in the middle of the night that affected his sleeping. He mentioned that the data (blood pressure readings)were not as accurate compared to their manual blood pressure apparatus. Both had a hard time with the watch cuff on and off mechanism. 

• Primary Contact

Gaurav KohliHealthcare AI ExpertFounder & CEOP 855 742-7300 x911C  415 316-6891E  gaurav@vitalfrnd.comW www.vitalfriend.comhttps://www.fala.org/vendors-guide/vitalfriend-inc
My Food For Thought For Todayhttps://www.facebook.com/reel/1274156557811964

Five Emotional Challenges of Getting Old

Five Emotional Challenges in Getting Old

 A Personal Reflection on the Emotional Landscape of Aging

Aging is often described in the language of biology, wrinkles, aches, slower metabolism, and fading memory. But the deeper changes happen in the quiet chambers of the heart. Getting old is not only a physical journey; it is an emotional pilgrimage, one that asks us to redefine meaning, identity, and love in gentler, quieter ways.

1. The Diminishing Circle

As we age, the circle of life narrows. Friends move away, grow frail, or simply vanish into the silence of time. Social gatherings become smaller, and sometimes the phone stops ringing as often. The loneliness that comes with this shrinking circle can be profound,  not because of the absence of noise, but the absence of shared memories. We grieve, not just for those we’ve lost, but for the part of ourselves that lived in their laughter.

2. Letting Go of Control

There comes a moment when we must surrender not out of defeat, but acceptance. The body no longer obeys as it once did, and independence gives way to reliance. For many, this loss of control is the hardest part: letting others help, trusting caregivers, allowing the world to move at its own pace. It’s an emotional reckoning that tests humility and grace.

3. Feeling Invisible

In a youth-obsessed culture, aging can feel like a quiet erasure. Society often stops seeing the elderly, not out of cruelty, but out of blindness. The world moves fast, and we become the still figures watching from the edges. Yet inside, the same spirit that once danced and dreamed still lives. The challenge is to remind ourselves and others that our worth is not measured by how visible we are, but by how deeply we have lived.

4. Facing Mortality

There comes a day when the future no longer stretches endlessly ahead, but folds gently toward its conclusion. The awareness of mortality can be terrifying, or strangely peaceful. For many, it’s both. It’s an invitation to reconcile with our past, with loved ones, and with ourselves. To live fully in the time that remains, even if that time feels borrowed.

5. The Weight of Memories

With age, memory becomes both comfort and burden. We revisit moments we can’t relive, conversations we wish had ended differently, faces we’ll never see again. Yet, memories are also our richest legacy. They are proof that we have loved, suffered, and mattered. The emotional challenge lies in learning how to carry them lightly enough to walk forward, but close enough to keep the heart warm.

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Personal Reflection

In the stillness of old age, I sometimes find myself listening not to the ticking of a clock, but to the rhythm of a life that has come full circle. The laughter that once echoed in crowded rooms now hums quietly inside me. The faces I miss have become stars in my inner sky. Aging, I’ve learned, is not the art of holding on, but the grace of letting go slowly, tenderly, and with gratitude for the beautiful weight of being alive.

Meanwhile, here's the AI Overview on the Above Topic

Five common emotional challenges in getting old are 

loss and grief, loneliness and isolation, loss of independence, fear of death and the unknown, and struggling with identity and purpose. These challenges often stem from life changes like retirement, declining health, and the death of loved ones, and can lead to feelings of sadness, anxiety, or frustration. 

1. Loss and Grief: Aging often involves multiple losses, including the death of friends, family, and partners. This can lead to a prolonged period of grieving and sadness.
2. Loneliness and Isolation: Retirement, health issues, or reduced mobility can lead to social isolation. This can result in feelings of loneliness, sadness, and even depression.
3. Loss of Independence: As physical and cognitive abilities decline, many seniors experience a loss of independence. This can lead to feelings of helplessness, frustration, sadness, and resentment.
4. Fear of Death and the Unknown: The aging process naturally brings a greater awareness of mortality. This can manifest as a fear of death, health concerns, or anxiety about the future, especially the unknown aspects of aging.
5. Struggling with Identity and Purpose: Career changes like retirement or the shift in family roles can cause some seniors to question their identity and purpose in life. This can lead to feelings of insecurity and low self-esteem. 

Lastly, 

Time does not simply move forward… it may fold around you.

For most of your life, you have been told time is a straight line. Past behind you. Present in front of you. Future waiting its turn. But cutting-edge quantum research is challenging that picture. Some physicists now propose that time might not flow at all. It may bend. Curve. Fold onto itself like pages touching in a closed book.

In quantum experiments, particles separated by distance seem to influence one another instantly. Cause and effect start to blur. Even stranger, certain models suggest that what happens now could ripple backward. In this view, the universe is not marching forward like a clock. It is constantly interacting across moments. Your present choices might not only shape tomorrow. They could echo into what came before.

Does that mean you can rewrite your past? Not in the movie-style sense. But it hints at something profound. Maybe nothing is ever truly gone. Maybe your healing changes the meaning of old memories. Maybe courage today transforms who you once were.

The science is still evolving. The equations are complex. The implications are wild. Yet the idea is simple enough to change how you live.

You are not just moving through time. You are participating in it. And every choice might ripple across more than one direction.

My Food For Thought For Today