Pork Sinigang- Most Appreciated Gift-Food Trucks at THD

The much awaited pork sinigang soup that our Chef Agustin and I has been talking about,  was handed to me during my brunch take-out trip to Newton's yesterday. It was a gift from Agustin's Filipino-American wife( Mrs. Gutierrez). I have not meet Mrs Gutierrez in person, but Agustin has been telling me she cooks Filipino food for Him. I will add this in my postings of examples of an act of Kindness from Strangers. Agustin, please relay my thanks to your wife for the above Pork Sinigang Dish.   

 As seen in the photos above, I divided the dish in 3 portions. Two for future use in my freezer, the other one I have savored and indulged with gusto last night with steam white rice and green papaya atchara ( sweet pickles).  

The soup has been rated by Taste Atlas as the best tasting soup in the world.💚 This soup was served at Newton's last October 13, 2023 during the Filipino-American History Month Celebration here at THD.

I have written several articles on the soup sinigang. Again here's a summary for your information and review.    Sinigang is a sour soup native to the Philippines. The recipe above uses pork as the main ingredient. Other proteins and seafood can also be used. Beef, shrimp, fish are commonly used to cook sinigang. The chicken version, on the other hand, is called sinampalukang manok. It is mixed with a variety of vegtables, such as green beans, okra, radish, eggplants etc...,  For detail visit:

https://panlasangpinoy.com/pork-sinigang-na-baboy-recipe/

💚https://chateaudumer.blogspot.com/2024/03/pork-sinigang-best-tasting-soup-in-world.html

Here are more websites on Best Soups of the World, listing Sinigang in the top 10, top 50 and top 100 best tasting soup in the world

https://theintellectualmigrants.blogspot.com/2024/04/the-100-best-dishes-in-world.html

https://lifeinus1960present.blogspot.com/2024/03/the-top-ten-most-popular-dishes-of.html

Again thank You, Mrs Gutierrez and Maraming Salamat!! Masarap! Manamit Guid ( Ilongo).This gift is very much appreciated!!

Meanwhile,  Happy Renovation Celebration to all my Fellow Residents here at THD! Will there be Pinoy Food in the Food Trucks This Saturday? Just Dreaming? 

My photo taken by Martha Rodriguez after receiving the Sinigang from Agustin yesterday. 

https://theintellectualmigrants.blogspot.com/2024/08/thd-newtons-restaurant-kudos-to-chef.html?fbclid=IwY2xjawEvm2BleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHVlQub2O1x2sFTb_ZXeekvCjcD_mjvgm7SOLVQUmDj4T92F4JCOjhmXhvg_aem_hYOUG5UZ9cHkk--jGy6laQ 

Newton's Kitchen Maintenance and Renovation

I received the above Good News Yesterday( See Brochure). Thank You THD Management and Owners for this improvement in the Quality of Our Life Here at THD.  

Meanwhile, this is also a good time to do some improvements in the Noise Level inside Newton's Restaurant.  In my previous posting, it was suggested that perhaps carpeting and installing Draperies will indeed reduced noise level to a more tolerable level.  

https://theintellectualmigrants.blogspot.com/2024/07/newtons-restaurant-noise-and-its-health.html

A recent suggestion is to install suspended acoustic-ceiling panels which is reasonably cheap. For details read the website below.        

These panels does not look that bad. Will it work? I really do not know! But it is worth a try. The Acoustic Panels are reasonably cheap and it comes in 14 colors.  If these acoustic ceiling panels work, I will be delighted to donate the cost of one panel. Just add the cost of one panel to my rent. I have a feeling a few of my fellow residents will be able to afford the cost of one panel (For cost of one panel read the website below).    

I hope THD management/owners is reading my blogs and consider this suggestion.  Again, my personal thanks to Ms Ryan ( CFO) for the newly purchased chair back pads in our Activity room.    

https://www.skutchi.com/product/product-lines/escape-solutions-series/escape-round-suspended-acoustic-ceiling-panels-acoustical-ceiling-baffles-14-colors-available/

Meanwhile, landscaping improvements in our Courtyard is in full swing. The huge trees giving shade in the Patio of Apartment 106 in the Fairmount Building and touching the roof and walls of the Fairmont Building have been replaced with a smaller tree and several 7-feet bushes, giving more sun.  

Another tree ( a eucalyptus ) is touching the walls of the 2nd and 3rd floor Apartments in the Fairmont Building( West Side). I suggest this tree must be also trimmed (see photo below).  This will give my patio more sun for my cacti and jade plants collection as well as a needed tree maintenance service for trees touching the buildings in the THD compound. 

 Happy Sunday to ALL! Looking forward to the coming 2-weeks of Rejuvenation Celebration! The Food Trucks are coming on Saturdays. It will be a welcome change from our Newton's menu! 

Philippines Ousted by Cambodia as the Friendliest Country of the World

According to the latest posting of Asean Urbanist in Face Book, Cambodia is now the most friendly country in the world. The Philippines has been demoted to number 2. During the past decade, I believe the Philippines has always been rated as the Number #1, I wonder why? If you know the reason let me know. 

But according to the travel.com Australia is their number 1 friendliest country in the world.

• Australia tops the list as the world's friendliest country due to locals' laid-back attitude and willingness to help tourists. 
•  Taiwan stands out as another one of the friendliest nations in the world due to locals' eagerness to assist despite language barriers. 
•  The Netherlands, Finland, Greece, and Portugal are also recognized for their friendliness, welcoming cultures, and high quality of life.

https://www.thetravel.com/friendliest-countries-in-the-world/

Who is correct? That Depends from Person to Person based on their personal experiences during their travel or temporary residence in the country they voted as number 1. 

Another list by the travel.com  listed South Africa in their #1 list, followed by Vietnam and the Philippines was not even in their top ten.

Friendliest Countries in the World

• South Africa. First up on our list of the friendliest countries in the world is South Africa. ... 
• Vietnam. Vietnamese people are noted for being quite humble and welcoming to tourists and expats. ... 
• Colombia. ... 
• Hungary. ... 
• Netherlands. ... 
• France. ... 
• Saudi Arabia. ... 
• New Zealand.

On the other hand, the most unfriendly country in the world was Iraq.  

Iraq. Even though Iraq has a rich cultural heritage, many foreigners do not visit the country due to constant political turmoil. Constant geopolitical tensions have caused locals to harbor suspicion with respect to Western tourists, making Iraq one of the least-welcoming countries in the world.

The World Economic Forum ranked the world's unfriendliest and friendliest countries based on locals' perceptions of how welcoming they are to foreign visitors. Chad, Venezuela, and Russia were ranked as some of the unfriendliest countries, while Brazil, Iceland, and New Zealand were ranked as some of the friendliest.

Do you have a list of your top ten most friendly countries in the world, based on your travels or readings? I will be happy to hear from you. Meanwhile here some news about the Philippines.

President Bongbong Marcos has been included in Time's 100 Most Influential People of 2024. The annual list puts a spotlight on individuals from around the globe who have made a significant impact in various fields such as politics, business, entertainment, science, and more.

Author Charlie Campbell cited Marcos's initiatives to bring back technocrats into government positions, stabilize the Philippine economy post-pandemic, and elevate the nation's global standing, as reasons for the chief executive's inclusion on the list.

Campbell also highlighted Marcos's leadership strategy amid rising geopolitical tensions: "Bongbong has stood steadfast against Chinese aggression in the disputed South China Sea and bolstered his nation’s alliance with the U.S. in the face of 'rising tensions in our region and the world,' as he said last May. Many problems persist, including extra­judicial killings and journalists routinely attacked. But by trying to repair his family name, Bongbong may reshape his country too."

More Facts about the Philippines: 𝐒𝐎𝐌𝐄 𝐄𝐓𝐇𝐍𝐈𝐂 𝐆𝐑𝐎𝐔𝐏𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐏𝐇𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐏𝐏𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒

Northern Luzon (Igorot, Gaddang and Ivatan), Mindanao (Non Muslim and Muslim tribes), Central Visayas (Cebuano), and NCR and Southern Luzon (Tagalog)

- The Islands of the Philippines are inhabited by a number of different ethnic groups. There are 134 ethnic groups in the Philippines, the majority of the population is composed of ethnolinguistic groups whose languages are Austronesian also known as Malayo-Polynesian in origin. Many of these groups converted to Christianity, particularly the lowland-coastal groups, and adopted many foreign elements of culture. The major( 8) ethnic groups of the Philippines are the Visayan, Tagalog, Ilocano, Bicolano, Pangasinense, Kapampangan, the Igorot and the Moro. About 8% of all the Filipinos are tribal groups.

Note: There are 195 countries in the world today. This total comprises 193 countries that are member states of the United Nations and 2 countries that are non-member observer states: the Holy See and the State of Palestine.

https://www.worldatlas.com/features/countries-by-area.html?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR28hYWbJaXGEGGwlS_JFAd64FrApEIb0mrJbQGPVQ7xefHXtdts4EXIbh4_aem_ATo49IRBFagKiSD1Bdm9lneJRCtS1hagfyWuh0rG9eBV2Fj7WGbu1vBBB0lYvFaXdr0dapR0H0aRzGJg8hsISdIY

Lastly, here are 5 of the must-visit destination in the Philippines for Tourists

| The Philippines is home to a multitude of breathtaking tourist spots that showcase the country's natural beauty and cultural richness.

1. Palawan: Known for its stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life, Palawan is a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. Highlights include the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Puerto Princesa Underground River and the idyllic beaches of El Nido and Coron.

2. Boracay: Famous for its powdery white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife, Boracay is a popular destination for those seeking sun, sea, and fun. The island offers a range of water sports activities, luxury resorts, and delicious dining options.

3. Banaue Rice Terraces: Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Banaue Rice Terraces are an awe-inspiring feat of ancient engineering, showcasing the intricate farming practices of the Ifugao people.

4. Cebu: A bustling province in the Visayas region, Cebu is a cultural and historical hub with attractions such as Magellan's Cross, Fort San Pedro, and the vibrant Carbon Market. The nearby island of Mactan is also a popular diving destination.

5. Bohol: Home to the iconic Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, and historic churches, Bohol offers a mix of natural wonders and cultural heritage. Visitors can also enjoy cruising along the Loboc River and exploring the vibrant underwater life in Panglao Island.

These are just a few of the many incredible tourist spots that the Philippines has to offer. Each destination provides a unique and memorable experience that showcases the beauty and diversity of this tropical paradise.

May I add Number 6: Marinduque- My Island Paradise and Location of Chateau Du Mer and Number 7- Iloilo-The Province of my Birth and Teenager Years. Good Day to All and Have Good Weekend!

Recent Activities and Some Photo News This Week

Writing, Dancing, Singing and Talking ( Lecture and Public Speaking), I have done numerous times in my life but I have never painted in my Life. Yesterday was my first time I did Watercolor Painting. My creation looks like a work of a 5-year old kid, but I am super proud I did it.   I know I could have improved it, by edging and spending more time on it, but I was not encourage when I saw the beautiful creations of my semi- professional fellow residents here at THD.    

My First Watercolor Creation-Peaches And Nectarines

I enjoyed this 30 minutes of Activity Here at THD, yesterday afternoon.

Watercolor Painting is one of the activity hosted by our capable Activity Coordinator, Cidney Carbah. Thank you, Cidney for guiding me on my first water color creation here in Planet Earth. It looks like a creation of a 5-year old kid, but I am happy since this was my first time. I was surprise I enjoyed this 30- minutes activity here at THD. There were ten fellow residents who participated.  A few of them were experienced and their paintings were beautiful and looks very professional compared to mine.  But as they say never compare yourself to others and just enjoy the moment.   

The second activity was the Clever Word Games, last Wednesday at the Activity Room at 11AM (see phots above).  This Activity was also hosted by our charming and super efficient Activity Coordinator, Cidney Carbah.

 

Meanwhile, I took the following photos of the Kitchen Crew during Alberto Alvarez first day of work. Again, Welcome Alberto.  Note that the Take Out Lunches are getting ready to be pick up or delivered. 

Fresh Produce for Our Dinner tonite.

Meanwhile, I found these two photos from my album last year that I do not remember posting at all

My Three D's - Ditas, Dodie, Me and Dinah- Photo Taken September, 2023, Portland, OR  

Enjoying a Glass of white wine During Dinner Time at Newton,  August, 2023

Lastly,  Good News-Covid Cases has stabilized to about 4 residents from 10. But Be Aware that it is not over.  Take Paxlovid as early as you can if you have Covid!     

Win Two Olympic Gold Medals and become a Millionaire

From My FaceBook The Other Day -Carlos Yulo- Filipino Gymnast

It was Team USA and Simone Biles who were expected to steal the show at the Paris Olympics gymnastics events, but it was Carlos Yulo who truly captivated the audience. With performances that left spectators in awe, Yulo not only secured a lifetime contract but also garnered global admiration. Fans and critics alike are buzzing about Yulo’s meteoric rise, while Biles reaffirmed her dominance, claiming silver in the floor exercise and multiple medals in the team competition, all-around, vault, and floor events. One passionate fan on X proclaimed, “Another gold for the Philippines! History is made again! Ang galing galing mo! [You are incredible!].”

### Carlos Yulo: From Underdog to Olympic Legend

Carlos Yulo’s ascent to Olympic glory is the stuff of legends. On August 3, he etched his name in history by winning the first-ever gold medal for the Philippines in the men’s floor final. But Yulo wasn’t done; the very next day, he soared to victory again, clinching gold in the vault final and becoming the first Filipino to achieve back-to-back Olympic golds. This unprecedented success brought Yulo not just medals but also lavish rewards, including a luxurious two-bedroom condo from Filipino real estate giant Megaworld, valued at an astounding $414,046 USD.

### Unveiling the Rewards and Honors

The drama and triumph of Yulo’s back-to-back victories at the Paris Olympics have ignited a tidal wave of celebration and accolades. His achievements have not only made him a national hero but have also solidified his status as an international sensation, transforming him into a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere.

Recently, NBC Sports posted a picture of Carlos Yulo from the Paris Olympics on their X handle. The caption read, “Win TWO golds, get UNLIMITED cookies! Carlos Yulo will also receive a free house, money, an iPhone 16, among other gifts, for making history and winning gold at the #ParisOlympics!” Yulo’s magnificent floor routine on Saturday earned him the gold medal, making him the first male from the Philippines to stand atop the podium. With his unprecedented triumph only a day past, the gymnast once more stood on the highest step after dominating the vault final on Sunday to claim yet another gold.

In the aftermath of his initial success, Yulo had been assured by his country’s leaders that a grand new house would soon be his, a reward presented to all who could bring such great pride and honor to the Philippines with their excellence under pressure on the world’s biggest stage. Gymnasts who win Olympic medals often receive rewards from their governments. While the IOC doesn’t give out prize money, most countries pay their gymnasts for each medal. In the USA, gold medals earn $25,000, silver $15,000, and bronze $10,000.

### A Hero's Welcome and Global Recognition

Carlos Yulo’s rewards are impressive. The government will give him a fully furnished two-bedroom condo worth 24 million Philippine pesos. The Philippine Sports Commission gave him over 10 million pesos, and the House of Representatives added three million pesos. In addition to the monetary rewards, Yulo will have lifetime access to colonoscopies and gastroenterology consultations starting at age 45. At 24, he was also granted 100,000 pesos worth of furnishings and food from local businesses.

He can enjoy unlimited cookies from Cookies By The Bucket, an iPhone 16, and lifetime supplies of ramen, mac and cheese, and grilled chicken from various restaurant chains. Nexa Engineering has pledged its services to Yulo for any needs, from intricate designs to simple repairs. Meanwhile, Manila, Yulo’s hometown, is preparing a “hero’s welcome” for him. Mayor Honey Lacuna said, “The grandest welcome will greet him and all our Paris Olympians. When we meet him, we will present Carlos Yulo with cash incentives, awards, and symbols of the eternal gratitude of the proud capital city of the Philippines.” Yulo has made history as the only Olympian from the Philippines to win multiple golds. Only time will tell what else he will achieve.

### The Weight of Glory and Pressure

The 24-year-old’s achievement was particularly impressive as he edged out defending champion Artem Dolgopyat of Israel, narrowly surpassing Dolgopyat’s 14.966 from the 2020 Olympics. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. praised him, saying, “No words can express how proud we are of you.” Just one day after winning gold in the floor exercise, Yulo claimed another gold on the vault with a score of 15.116. He finished ahead of Artur Davtyan, who earned Armenia’s first-ever Olympic gymnastics medal with a 14.966, and Harry Hepworth from Great Britain, who scored 14.949.

After finishing, Yulo said he was still feeling good from the night before and didn’t sleep much. He woke up tired and didn’t think he would do well. “I was just hoping to perform well, I did not really expect a medal”, he said to the NBC Olympics with a surprise. He further added that achieving the win meant to him as he felt like this was a bonus for him. It sounded really crazy to him, and he could not sleep thinking about bagging gold in the floor exercise. He even took a nap on the bus before going into the competition arena, saying, “I kind of like napping for like 15 to 20 minutes,” exaggerating that sleep may have worked for him.

This is the Philippines’ first gymnastics medal and only their third Olympic gold, following Hidilyn Diaz’s weightlifting victory in Tokyo. Carlos Yulo, who has faced recent struggles, including at the last Games, has now made history. He has had trouble being consistent and doing his best in the most important moments. For every success—including his first gold on the floor exercise at the 2019 Worlds—there have been disappointments. But what matters more than ever is how the champion bounced back, stunned the audience, and made his tiny island nation proud and relevant in the global sporting arena at Paris.

From Wikipedia: Carlos Edriel Poquiz Yulo (born February 16, 2000) is a Filipino artistic gymnast. He is the 2024 Olympic gold medalist at the floor exercise and vault events. He is the first Filipino and the first male Southeast Asian gymnast to medal at the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships with his floor exercise bronze medal finish in 2018, as well as the first Filipino and Southeast Asian to achieve a gold medal finish for the same criteria in 2019 at the same event. With multiple medals on the international stage, Yulo is the most successful Filipino gymnast in history, the second person to win an Olympic gold medal for the Philippines, and the first person to win multiple Olympic gold medals for the country. 

Yulo is a two-time Olympic champion; a six-time world championship medalist, winning two golds, two silvers, and two bronzes; a ten-time Asian champion; and a nine-time SEA Games champion. He is noted for his short stature compared to other male gymnasts, his precision in form, and the difficulty of his routines, especially in the floor exercise, vault, and parallel bars.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carlos_Yulo#:~:text=He%20became%20the%20first%20Filipino,kg%20weightlifting%20event%20in%20Tokyo.

Meanwhile, Good Day To All!! The Olympic Games is over and eagerly Waiting for the Next Four Years in Los Angeles, CA  if I am still standing that year ( 2028).  

The Newton's Restaurant- Kudos to Chef Agustin and His Kitchen Crew

Newton's Restaurant-The Heritage Downtown (THD), Walnut Creek, CA 

My recent lunch ( see photo above) of Bow Tie Pasta Salad, Lentil soup with sausage, watermelon and Coke was excellent. The Pasta Salad has cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, parmesan cheese and Italian Dressing.

One of the many factors of my decision to move here at THD last year was the food service at Newton's- Our THD restaurant. https://theheritagedowntown.com/fine-dining/

I have enjoyed numerous normal and weekly dishes, and also several special dishes celebrating special occasions.  Newtons have provided delicious and authentic dinners for Valentine,  Easter, July 4th, October Filipino-American History month, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Eve. Newton's is very creative in their Salads and Soups Presentations as well as Desserts. The following are some special dishes on special occasions served here at Newton's.  

In Dinner the menu of January 22-27, 2024 is listed in one of the vegetarian dishes, one of my favorite Mexican dishes- chili relleno casserole. Thank you Agustin for honoring my request. Agustin is our Chef here at Newton's Restaurant.  

It was delicious and a little bit spicy, but I love it. So as a warning if you do not like spicy food, the chili relleno casserole is not for you. However, if you have an adventurous palate and like Mexican dishes try it this week. 

Here are some photos of Newton's and Senior Residents enjoying Dinner. 

Pork Chops and Asparagus Dinner with Dean and Marsha 
    

Dinah and I at Father's Day Dinner, 2024 with Glass Stained Window Decor-Haley's Comet

Filipino Dinner Menu featuring  Pork Sinigang,  Chicken Adobo and Rice Cake/Mango Ice Cream 

Here's the Special Valentine Dinner Menu for Wednesday Feb 14, 2024

Looking forward to the Grilled Rib Eye Dinner, Lobster Bisque Soup and Crab Cakes 

Lastly, last year's New Year's Eve Dinner Featured Baked Lobster Tail or Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb and Lobster Bisque Soup and Cheesecake for Dessert. 

Meanwhile, I talked to Agustin the other day, our Chef about Sinigang.💚 He said his wife  (a Filipina-American) will cook it and he will bring a bowl for me. Thank You, Agustin! Keep up with Good work and my thanks to all the Kitchen Crew.  Meanwhile, here's a website that describes Sinigang in the top 100 Best Soup in the World by Taste Atlas.

💚https://www.tasteatlas.com/sinigang