Some Interesting Comments on My Articles and Blog Postings for the StoryWorth Book

This is my response to the query about comments for the StoryWorth Book of Memories. Here are Parts A, B and C-Reader's Comments from my Blogs and Articles

 

A. Ten Interesting Comments from My Blogs

I started blogging in 2008. This year(2009), I received more than 100 comments from my readers all over the world in my five widely read blogs. The following are ten comments that inspire me to continue blogging. I found them interesting as well.

1. We hear about British successes. This is one of their forgotten failures, until now. Interesting that most of the Spanish army were Filipino soldiers and officers. Because of this I've now come across the story of the fight against the Dutch invasion and it is another forgotten story. The history of the Philippines seems to be filled with amazing forgotten stories. I'm going to read more and not just about the colonial period. Thank you for opening my eyes, on British Occupation of Manila-Forgotten Episode in Philippine History>by Anonymous.

2. Hi, I read your blogs like every week. Your story-telling style is awesome, keep doing what you're doing! Also see my site on, Thomas Coleman on Political Dynasty and Pork Barrel as Cause of Corruption in the Philippines

 

3. Dear Dr. David B. Katague, Greetings… I hereby humbly request your permission to allow me to copy some portion of your blog article regarding “Marinduque – My Island Tropical Paradise” for the reason that I’m doing a factual research about the province of Marinduque which I’ll use it for the construction of my argumentative essay entitled Marinduque. I assure you that this will only be used for academic purpose only in our university as a school project research. Furthermore, I admire that way you’ve written your blog article especially the details regarding the tourist spots in the province especially the Bellaroca resort since I haven’t been there due to its costly fee which I can’t afford so far. Your approval would be a great help for my research and studies. Thank you in advance for your kindest help. May the Lord shower you more of His blessings in these coming years. Sincerely yours, JHONAS Q. DE LA CRUZ on Latest Article on Traveling to Marinduque

4. The story of MHL has a nice ring about it. It tells the juicy details and reality of unconventional relationships, which add flavor to the plot and draws in the hordes of viewers. It would be educational to draw up a drama series which portray the pain, suffering and havoc of diseases spread mainly by gay relationships. People never learn and HIV/AIDS is spreading faster than we are aware of it. Your blog site can be a tool in helping stamp out the sexually transmitted diseases of our generation. Mark Stromill on Bisexuality-Theme of Episode 50 of My Husband's Lover

5. I have Filipino friends living in Spain who visit Morocco for the weekends, similar to Americans visiting the Mexico side for the weekend. It is an exotic short trip for them just as you mentioned. The street vendors remind us of people hawking everything in the streets of Manila. Nowadays, Morocco is a jumping point for would be illegal migrants from Africa heading to Europe. Spain continues to have a small territory in North Africa, I am not sure if it is near or on Morocco, and Spain has fortified its borders because some migrants enter it illegally and is a headache for the EU. Jose Luis Martinez on One Day in Tangier, Morocco, North Africa

6. Good to read your article about the discrimination. Looking forward for more articles like this on Prejudice and Discrimination Against Filipinos by Anonymous.

7. I'm impressed, you are now the handy man that your wife luckily married. You should post on your blogs the recipes of your new skill and we your readers can start judging you. Keep up the good work and have a joyful Father's day weekend. Orby Gustafsson on Blueberries Pancake for Breakfast


8. Dear Dave, I just came across your site while I was looking for background information regarding the Rigodon de Honor. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading your blogs and admire your dedication to keeping your blogs updated. Looks like retirement suits you! I am also a Filipino American who have dedicated the last 25 years in pursuit of improving the clinical trial enterprise. I noticed you retired from the FDA. Did you by any chance come across Dr. Jean Fourcroy and Dr. Peter Reinhart? We were members of the Board of Trustees of the former Academy of Pharmaceutical Physicians and Investigators. I just wanted to let you know that your stories inspired me to look into doing something similar. At age 56 and in the process of yet another reinvention of my professional and personal life,I found some wise pearls in your blogs. Thank you for sharing your stories with the world! Kind regards, Dr. Nadina Jose drnjose@gmail.com on Cinco de Mayo Celebration and Sales

9. Hi Sir, I am also an alumna of UP (Chemical Engineering, 2009) and stumbled upon your blog. I would just like to say that I thoroughly enjoyed reading your entries, and am impressed that you remain a prolific blogger well into your 70s! I can only aspire to do the same when I reach my golden years. Salamat po, and I look forward to your future posts. Regards, Patricia on Chapter 1: Childhood Memories of the Japanese-American War in the Philippines, 1941-1945

 

10. Hi there, Your blog page is just too perfect for our project, I don’t know how to catch your attention but hopefully you could spare me a minute to read this message. We've recently launched the site www.mytaste.com where users search through recipes from all the major recipe sites and blogs. We noticed that you have a great number of tasty recipes on your blog and would like to suggest you to have a look at our “Top Food Blogs” section. We would like to give you an opportunity to add your food blog to the list and have your recipes indexed on our site, all you have to do is add your blog URL here: http://www.mytaste.com/add-your-food-blog Our project is the second biggest worldwide when it comes to recipe search, and it’s already live in 37 countries, including countries in Europe, Asia, Middle-East, Australia, South America and South Africa. We deliver thousands of visitors to food blogs daily. Some of the top food blogs receive at least 10,000 visitors from us on a weekly on Garden Salad with Dungeness Crab
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

B.Why I continue Writing for ViewsHound*( 2011)

Photo from allowwomenstalk.com

Positive comments and feedbacks to my articles are the reasons why I keep writing for ViewsHound (VH). I started writing for VH last August, 2011. As of today, I have submitted more than sixty articles and photographs. I have over 23,500 views, 22 followers, 9 badges, a gold and bronze winning articles. The following are my favorite commentators and their comments: M. Abott, D. Hamilton, G. Maoli, L. Arota, J. Bird, S. Ozmore, D. Page, D. Reynolds, J. Willoughby, S. Powers, S.C. Joy, L. Silverman, M. Dragoo, F. Lachica, V. Vizarra and G. Buesnel.

Mark Abbott.UTEP- Comment to, You have to fail on order to succeed.

I think this is the most positive thing I've read all week and possibly even all month. I wish everyone had the "can do" attitude that you have. I've been struggling like hell to perfect it for some time now and as discouraging as it can be at times, I think I've made a great deal of progress. I remember reading someones quote once (can't remember who it was) that said if you fail 999 times out of 1,000, you actually succeeded in finding 999 ways NOT to do something. Thanks so much for posting this. It makes a world of difference to see the necessary little reminders in the work of other writers.

Deb Hamilton · Top Commenter · Chicago, Illinois- Comment to, The best Christmas gift I have ever received.

I really loved this story! You must make friends easily... or I don't think your support system would have been this strong. You deserve some of the credit here, for sure. Very sweet tale.

Gianandrea Maoli · Top Commenter · Freelance writer at ViewsHound- Comment to, Am I a born or made writer?

Wow! One of the most encouraging pieces I've seen on VH! I would say that as far as great writers are concerned, I think there's a combination of being born to be great and being made into one. I think that even if your are born into it, it does take a writer a lot of time, patience, and even courage to keep writing and learning until they find the right way to express themselves. I do agree with you that it has great therapy tools to express your thoughts which is what I try to do with short stories in general. You did that very well in this work and I hope to see others from you in the future.

Lorna Paroginog Arota · Chinese Gen. Hospital school of nursing -Comment to, Childhood memories of the Japanese-American war in the Philippines-Part 2

You captured the WWII story through your wife's perspective in such an emotional and personal way. Your mother in- law lost a sister very dear to her heart from the hands of merciless Japanese soldiers who by no means will not spare any lives if you're in their way. I don't blame your mother for hating the Japanese, as my mother also did. That is the cruelty of war. Great article! you deserve another gold prize Dave.

Jan Bird · Top Commenter · College of Ripon & York St John -Comment to, Am I a born or made Writer?

This is the first article I've read today, David and it's a good one! I'm flattered to be quoted but I've never thought of myself as a "born" writer. I'm not fishing there, it's just not how I think of it. I think you can always learn and that we're all learning, constantly, from everything we write and everything we read, whether it's fiction, other writers' articles or mainstream journalism. We learn both how to do it and how not to do it. It is a craft and we can spend a lifetime perfecting and refining it. That's going to be one of life's pleasures for me for the rest of my life. I'm delighted for you that you've discovered such a love for writing and such a talent for getting your personal thoughts into words. You followed your heart and it shows. Your pieces are always deeply personal and reflective and I really enjoy that.

Susan Ozmore · Top Commenter- Comment to, I have an inferiority complex writing for ViewsHound

I really enjoyed your article. I'm a math/science person and also feel a sense of inferiority when compared to people who have spent far more time writing than I have. Although, I've done quite a bit of technical writing and have been told I do a very good job "translating" complex things into understandable prose, I still haven't gotten up the nerve to write for ViewsHound. I have started a blog though, and knowing that I'm not alone in feeling inadequate, maybe I'll get up the nerve soon to write for VH. The only thing is that your article is Excellent! I don't know if I can compare :-) Keep writing!

Dennis L. Page · Top Commenter · Onondaga- Comment to, Childhood memories of the Japanese-American war in the Philippines

You have presented the reader with a gut wrenching and true to life experience that only those like you, who experience such things can relay to the rest of us. My deceased father served in the United States Army in combat during WW II. First he was in New Guinea and then in the jungles of the Philippines. He was also taken from the front lines to learn how to do the initial land invasion of Japan. That, of course, never happened, but my dad always spoke highly of the Filipino people.

Debra Copley Reynolds · Top Commenter · Consultant at Princess House, Inc. -Comment to, Childhood memories of the Japanese-American war in the Philippines

A fascinating read, thank you. My grandfather served on a supply ship during WWII and told a few stories, I wish I had listened closer. Consider writing your tale in book length, please!

Jessica Willoughby · Top Commenter · Hard to Define at Developmental Skills Center-Comment to, Why I have an inferiority complex writing for ViewsHound

David, thank you for your kind words in your article. I love that you wrote this from such an authentic and honest viewpoint of how you felt. However, I want you to know that you are not alone in that feeling. To be completely honest, I think we all feel that way about something at some point. The very people you were so kind to put me in the company of, leave me in awe with their words. I could only aspire to someday write half as well as them. I think that you are a good writer. I write about topics which feel comfortable and creative for me. I love to read the work of so many others people because I can gain knowledge on topics that I am naive on. I enjoy reading about the things you write about, and there is never a need to feel inferior to anyone else. Easier said than done, I know. I am much better at giving that advice, than living that advice. Thanks again for your kind words. Nice piece, and keep up the good work. The more we write, the better we become. You know the old adage, practice makes perfect :) Have a great evening David!

Sarah Powers · Milwaukee, Wisconsin- Comment to, Domestic abuse against men: the battered husband

Thank you for writing this article, I know of a lot of people who don't believe, excuse, ignore, or even laugh at abuse of husbands. It's unfortunate that society feels this way about the abuse, and even rape of men. Hopefully articles like this will inspire people to think critically about these issues and what equality really means.

Susan Creamer Joy · Top Commenter · Works at Freelance Artist- Comment to, Memorable excerpts from the writings of my favorite authors at ViewsHound

Leslie is correct, David. We'll need enlarged exits from VH now:)) As for me, I am flattered and thrilled to be among this talented bunch and am equally inspired by and impressed with the many other wonderful writers here, yourself included:) Now, will someone call my driver and fetch my wrap? :)) Thank you, indeed!

Leslie Silverman · Top Commenter- Comment to, Why I am writing for ViewsHound

As always, David - honest, and direct well stated. Thanks for the mention. Keep writing for viewshound so we have the pleasure of reading you!

Michelle Dragoo · Top Commenter · Supervisor, Anatomic Pathology at Edward Hospital-Comment to, Memorable excerpts from my favorite ViewsHound authors

I have never been recognized, so, thank YOU. This truly brought tears to my eyes. I feel blessed to be in this esteemed group of writers.

Fernando Ceballos Lachica · Top Commenter · Works at Triond-Comment to, I have inferiority complex writing for ViewsHound.

Your writing style is great and I loved it! I can relate to your article actually. A Gold for you today! Cheers David!

Vic Vizarra · Top Commenter · Technology Consultant/Managing Owner at Viz-Mart Int'l. Computers-Comment to-Afterglows in the sunset of our lives.

I am now beginning to follow your articles and blogs. Hopefully you could lead me to your article about the revival of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant. I was then an electrical engineering student in 1977 when I visited the nuclear power plant as part of our field trip requirement for graduation. I was pretty much impressed by the design and set-up of said power plant and was just sad to know it just got wasted and not utilized as intended.

**Gail Buesnel · Top Commenter-Comment to, Childhood memories of the Japanese-American War in the Philippines**

David thank you for this aspect of the war. My uncle was a British POW held by the Japanese and freed by General MacArthur the same day the Japanese sent in death squads to murder all prisoners. He has written a book and a portion of it deals with his POW experiences. It would be fascinating to have all aspects recorded in a book, yours as a civilian, the POW's, the liberating Americans and even a Japanese soldier. I am going to try to send this article to my uncle via my cousin. Congratulations on winning the prize.

*Note: ViewsHound went out of business around December 30, 2011.

C. Why I am not Quitting Blogging (2013)

The last couple of days, I posted in My FB status page requesting my relatives and friends to check the Like Button, if they also read my blogs on a regular basis. Of the more than 500 FB friends I have only 14 checked the Like button as of today. Is this enough reason for me to quit blogging? Perhaps, But I know I have an average of more than 300 readers (page views) per day in my six popular blogs. I have now close to l million readers based on page views from 174 countries. Therefore, FB is not the main source of my readership. Moreover the following seven comments that I received recently, energized me. I will not quit blogging as long as I received positive feed backs from my readers.

1. I have a chance to read your blogs and they are very interesting as well as informative. I like your style of writing, simple and direct to the point.

 

2. I just came across your site while I was looking for background information regarding the Rigodon de Honor. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading your blogs and admire your dedication to keeping your blogs updated. Looks like retirement suits you! I am also a Filipino American who have dedicated the last 25 years in pursuit of improving the clinical trial enterprise. I just wanted to let you know that your stories inspired me to look into doing something similar. At age 56 and in the process of yet another reinvention of my professional and personal life,I found some wise pearls in your blogs. Thank you for sharing your stories with the world! Kind regards

3. I was looking for the same information and finally I got my answer from your post thanks for sharing this useful information.! on Earn Income from Your Writings and Blogs

4.Hi, I read your blogs like every week. Your story-telling style is awesome, keep doing what you're doing! Also see my site Thomas Coleman on Political Dynasty and Pork Barrel as Cause of Corruption in the Philippines

5.Wow, fantastic blog format! How long have you been running a blog for? you make blogging glance easy. The total look of your website is fantastic, let alone the content! Also visit my web blog - Spanish property Almoradi on Memories of Our One Week of Vacation in Spain

6. Thanks for the knowledge given about the Sildenafil citrate. Keep providing the information of Sildenafil citrate as much as possible. on Do you Know that Viagra was Discovered by Accident?

7. I read your blogs and they are well written! Ever thought of being a contributor for Times? Thanks for the drug expiry article which was an eye opener. Just have to learn the links, and other stuffs written there for comments, etc. If you have time, please check also www.balik-probinsiya.com an advocacy to better the lives of the Filipinos. Thanks.

 Meanwhile, enjoy this photo from my garden

 

Din Tai Fung Dishes to Taste-Added to My Bucket List #102

 

Recently, I have been reading a lot about the dishes one must taste at the Din Tai Fung Restaurant in FaceBook. Because of Covid19 restrictions and my aging years going to restaurants in person is no longer a viable option of my lifestyle. I am just happy to order on line via Doordash. On-line ordering is so convenient but restaurants more than 10 miles from my residence are not included in my delivery contract. 

When I first heard of DTF, I immediately checked on line the nearest branch near me. It is located in Santa Clara/ San Jose Area WestField Valley Fair Shopping Mall. The first store located in Arcadia, CA closed last year due to financial problems caused by the Pandemic. In case you have not heard of Din Tai Fung.

DTF is known for its internationally acclaimed xiao long bao, or soup dumplings.  Din Tai Fung has been synonymous with Taiwanese cuisine, becoming the first Taiwanese restaurant to be awarded a Michelin star. The chain also has branches in Australia, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Macau, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, the U.K., and the U.S. Here are 12 dishes worthy of tasting if you have the chance.

12 Din Tai Fung Dishes That Are Worthy Contenders for the Xiao Long Bao Throne

 1. Green Chillies Stuffed with Marinated Minced Meat

 

It’s tempting to compare these Green Chillies Stuffed with Marinated Meat to its yong tau foo counterpart. But Din Tai Fung proves, a one letter difference between DTF and YTF makes a world of delicious difference.

Each piece is laboriously prepared and smothered in a hearty brown gravy

You’d never have thought minced pork would marry so well with the humble chilli, and the finishing touch of marinade makes for all the magic. The best part is that kids can have this too, because it isn’t even half as spicy as it looks!  This is one dish I will first try. Since I loved Mexican Chille Releno, I have a feeling I will enjoy the above dish.

2. ‘Xiao Cai’ – Oriental Salad in Special Vinegar Dressing

Hearing the word “salad”, you almost always instinctively think romaine lettuce. But Din Tai Fung’s signature Oriental Salad in Special Vinegar Dressing – finely sliced beancurd strips, vermicelli , bean sprouts, and kelp – hardly counts as rabbit food.  

Load yourself up with this healthy delicacy and taste for yourself why they call this the Special Vinegar Dressing. Balsamic vinaigrette doesn’t even come close to the sweet-sour twang of this distinctly Asian seasoning, and the sesame oil makes sure every strand is coated with this tasty dressing. I think I will also enjoy this dish because of the special dressing above.

3. Noodle with Spicy Sauce

One thing you’ll notice about the menu, is that it doesn’t use flowery words to describe its dishes. It lets the food speak for itself. And with a name as unpretentious as Noodle with Spicy Sauce, you know fiery taste of the “QQ” noodles will do all the talking. 

At sweat-inducing levels of spice, the burning sensations on your tongue will be painfully addictive. Have this noodle as a staple on days you’re just not craving Fried Rice with Shrimps & Eggs or Fried Rice with Pork Chop, or even eat it by itself, because this bowl of noodles sure can hold its own. I have never tasted Noodles with a Spicy Sauce, so this would be a good first for me.

4. Steamed Chicken Soup

 

You could say this bowl of Steamed Chicken Soup inspired the “Chicken Soup for the Soul” book series – it melts your heart quite the same way those heartwarming stories do.

Using only premium fresh chicken and simmered for 6 hours, the soup is packed with the goodness of chicken essence. Zooming in for a closer look, you’ll find that all the pieces of ginger are sliced to the same precise dimensions. With such attention to detail, it’s no wonder Din Tai Fung has crept its way into our hearts.

5. Shrimp & Pork Wantons Tossed in Well-seasoned Chicken Broth

Wantons come in all shapes and sizes, but they usually leave more to be desired when they come with more skin than filling. But these Shrimp & Pork Wantons wantonly challenge that. Packed generously with shrimp, and perfectly seasoned in chicken broth, you’ll never look at wantons the same way again.

The skin soaks up a fair bit of chicken broth and the remainder covers the wanton’s surface, so you’re getting a juicy bundle bursting with flavors from both inside and out.

6. Stir-Fried Dou Miao with Shrimps

 

The one thing we love about Din Tai Fung, is its consistency. And consistency comes in every plate of Dou Miao, whether it’s Stir-fried with Shrimp ($16) or simply tossed with fragrant garlic ($12.80). 

They’ve figured out the perfect length to pick the sprouts and it only takes a teaspoon of oil to stir-fry them to bring you this mountain of miao that lacks the chewy fibrousness of others, so you’re not left chewing like a cow on cud.

Fun Fact: Din Tai Fung hydroponically farms and grows their very own dou miao!

7. Steamed Angled Gourd & Shrimp Dumplings

There’s a thrill in opening the cover of the bamboo dim sum steamers – you can never be too sure what’s hidden inside. But concealed within this long, is the real motherload – Steamed Angled Gourd & Shrimp Dumplings.  

Trade in minced pork for the sweetness of the prawn and crunch of angled gourd in these steamed dumplings. It’s perfect for those days you want a light and refreshing alternative. This looks so yummy, I really getting hungry.

8. Steamed Red Bean Dumplings with Chocolate Lava

The 18 folds are tight!

You usually have your dumplings savoury, but surprise yourself next time round with the sweetness of Din Tai Fung’s dessert dumplings. The usual suspect is yam, but this time expect an appearance of Red Bean and Chocolate Lava!

Instead of soup, watch chocolate lava ooze out as you bite into each mouthful. With the indispensable red bean paste that you’d usually have wedged between a pancake, alongside some smooth velvety chocolate, this is a standout in their diverse dumpling offerings.

To commemorate Din Tai Fung’s 12th anniversary last year, its flagship store in Paragon launched 12 new dishes and has since added another 8 more that are exclusive to the store. Rest assured, these dishes are worth braving the crowds at Orchard for!  

 1. Black Fungus with Ginger Strips & Vinegar Dressing

 

Delicious and healthy don’t often come in the sentence, but when they do, it’s to describe Din Tai Fung’s Black Fungus with Ginger Strips & Vinegar Dressing. 

The goji berries are packed with antioxidants and the black fungus with vitamin K, deliciously dispelling the belief that the benefits of chinese herbs can only come in menacingly bitter brews.

Make sure to keep a firm grip on this slippery delicacy or they’ll slip out of your chopsticks. 

Taste the mild spice of ginger and tang of vinegar with fragrant sesame oil in each bite of black fungus. With the appearance of grass jelly sheets, this fungi’s crunchy yet light texture still bewilders those of us who’ve grown up eating it.

2. Deep-fried Handmade Tofu with Water Chestnuts & Mushrooms

 

Solid on the outside but soft and tender on the inside – we’re not describing that unemotional friend you have who never lets you onto their feelings – we’re talking about these golden nuggets of Deep-fried Handmade Tofu with Water Chestnuts & Mushrooms fried to a crunchy crisp.  

Specially handmade and filled with mushrooms, carrots, water chestnuts and fungus – this is the perfect combination to foodie happiness, essentially. Did we mention this is also vegetarian-friendly?

Don’t forget to dunk these golden babies into Din Tai Fung’s chilli and Chinese coriander dipping sauce!

3. San Bei Claypot Chicken in Special Taiwanese Sauce

This is not Kung Pao Chicken, but ‘San Bei Ji’ or Three Cups Chicken, a true-blue Taiwanese classic. Chicken thigh comes in a sweet and savory reduction, in with the fragrance of sesame oil and sweet basil.

Tuck into these soft and tender chicken pieces decked out in a sweet sauce made true to Taiwanese tradition. Skip the 5 hour plane ride, because with their emphasis on consistency, you don’t have to take to Taiwan and savour the same good taste worldwide.

4. Steamed Custard Buns

 

Marked with a tiny yellow fu (fortune), it’s anybody’s good fortune to be able to bite into one of these Steamed Custard Buns. Safe to say, the only anticipation that comes close to the excitement of popping these babies open to see the bright yellow custard inside is opening red packets at Chinese New Year.

Ever come across dish with sauce so good, you’d give anything for a private moment to have your way with remaining splotches on the plate? That’s really what the soft fluffy buns are for – mopping up every last bit of this liquid gold – so please, no plate-licking. 

The Din Tai Fung Classic

After seeing all this novelty, you must be relieved to find something familiar in the mix – the signature pork xiao long baos. Technicolored xiao long baos with ingredients like cheese and foie gras are filling the market, but nothing comes close to the comforting familiarity of this untouchable Din Tai Fung Classic, made and served in their appetising au naturel hue. 

 

DIY this Steamed Eggplant topped with Fragrant Spicy Sauce at home

Make this stunning eggplant dish at home, with just a tablespoon of Fragrant Chilli Sauce and Taiwan Chilli Oil! Home-cooking is now a piece of cake, with these two premium sauces that are vegetarian-friendly and made with natural ingredients. I love any dish with eggplants. This I have to try!! Yummy!!!!

Source:   https://thesmartlocal.com/read/din-tai-fung-2016/

After reading the above article, I am listing eating at Din Tai Fung Restaurant to be my #102 in my Bucket List. How about you? Have you been to DTF?

https://hubpages.com/hub/my-bucket-list-101-things-to-do-before-i-die?hubview

 

Activities After Retirement for the StoryWorth Book of Memories

This is my response to the query regarding my activities after retirement for StoryWorth Book of Memories

This is Chateau Du Mer Beach House-Our Retirement and Second Home

 

The Beach-front of the Beach House- Amoingon, Boac, Marinduque

The first article I wrote on my Joys of Retirement was on May 10, 2008. I described in that post my feeling of getting lost and useless after working for three years in the Philippines and 37 years in the United States. My feeling of uselessness completely disappeared after my wife and I started babysitting for our grand daughter, Carenna. I commented that we love more our six grandchildren than our four children, because our children are considered our capital investments and our grandchildren are already our profits.

 Carenna -my 6th and youngest grand daughter and I starting to get a Nap-2004

After retiring from FDA as chemistry team leader from the Center of New Drugs, I realized I have plenty of free time. I decided I had to learn more about computer technology besides just e-mailing and word processing technology. Through trial and error, I created my own website, http://chateaudumer.blogspot.com . My goal was to advertise my beach resort business worldwide. As a result of this endeavor, I was able to attract clients from Europe and the United States and other parts of the World.

I also started paying all household bills on line through electronic banking, shopping on line, chatting on line and playing games on line specifically duplicate bridge, my favorite game since I was in college. Just six months ago, I discovered the world and joys of blogging. I did not realized that today there are 7 million bloggers in the world and it started in 2003. At present I have 8 blog sites on topics ranging from personal experiences, politics, education and other topics of the day. I want to concentrate on the subject about Marinduque. My goal is to promote Marinduque as a world tourist destination not only on Easter Week ( Moriones Festival) but also whole year round.
Our first guests from Europe at Chateau Du Mer Beach House were two couples from Southern France. They two men are physicians and their wives are a psychologist and an English teacher. The picture above was taken at Paradise Valley Resort in Cabugao, Gasan with the Engles on March 27, 2008. The French couples learned about the resort through my website.

My goal of advertising the beach resort through a website did not really give me lots of traffic. I have more traffic on my 8 blog sites than on my website, moreover, I found blogging relaxing and enjoyable. Recently, I had my first article, Marinduque-Ecotourism Capital of the Philippines published by www.huliq.com, making me a citizen journalist. This was followed by two other articles on US National Parks and Monuments and The Bataan Nuclear Power Plant revival.
Governor Carrion Inauguration in Front of the provincial Capitol

On August, 2008, Macrine and I received a Letter of Appreciation from the Office of the Governor as a results of my blogs promoting tourism in the province. The letter reads as follows:

Dave and Macrine Katague,

Peaceful Greetings from the Marinduque Provincial Government.

Having read your messages through the official website of the province, we are very thankful and overwhelmed for promoting Marinduque as a tourist destination not just in the country but also worldwide.

Indeed, Marinduque is a beauty not just because of its scenic spots but also because of people like you who support and promote this province and considers it their home. Hearing beautiful comments from people like you enthuse me more to serve my people and gives me the strong will to develop the province into a first class tourist destination.

In behalf of the people of the province, thank you very much and I salute you for making us proud of our province.

Jose Antonio N. Carrion
Governor

For the Governor: Signed by() Atty.Lord Allan Jay Q. Velasco, Provincial Administrator.

Note: Today, Velasco is now the Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Philippines. The late former Governor was Macrine's first cousin. 

Macrine and I had recently been involved with the distribution of relief goods( rice and can foods) through the Roman Catholic Diocese of Boac to victims of typhoon Reming. Reming devastated about 90% of the homes in the island. 

This picture was taken in Mogpog with Macrine, me, Bishop Evangelista of the Diocese of Boac, Retired General Sarmiento, Thelma Santos of MI, Inc and another volunteer during our rice distribution to victims of typhoon Reming in the Island of Marinduque. The person on the left is one of the thousands that receive 5 kilos of rice and can goods.

At present, Macrine and I are still devoting our free time on our favorite humanitarian project in Marinduque. For the last 12 years, we have been involved with the medical mission in Marinduque. Visit, www.marinduqueinternational.org for details.

Dave and Macrine in their tailored-made matching Hawaiian Outfits enjoying their retirement years. Photo taken at the backyard of Dodie's, (our oldest son) residence in Walnut Creek, CA.

May, I reiterate that the joy one gets from retirement is very specific. Some enjoy their free time by learning new activities, getting involved with humanitarian projects or spend more time with their grandchildren. Others hate retirement. They missed their coworkers and interaction at work. Others with no children or grandchildren spend their free time on traveling, turning their hobbies into small business or more community involvement. Those that retire and hate it, is believe to die early and than those who enjoy their retirement years. I suggest you plan your retirement as early as you can. The happier you are on retirement, the longer you will live.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
EPILOGUE: We are Poor in Gold but Rich in Memories
Macrine and I, Christmas, 2013

Our life is not rich in terms of dollars or pesos, or material possessions (luxurious villas or mansion here or abroad) but in pleasant memories and accomplishments.

How was this attained? First, I grew up in the 1940's in the midst of the Japanese-American War in the Philippines. My father at that time was a Dental Officer for the Philippine-American Guerrilla Forces in Panay and Romblon Islands. Thus, I did have a lot of contacts with American GI's from all parts of the US. These contacts initiated and triggered my desire and ambition to someday see and visit the US. ( I had no desire or dream to reside in US at that time)

Second, my elementary and high school years were filled with accomplishments. I graduated with honors in 6th Grade and valedictorian in my high school class. Except for a bullying incident in my freshman year, I had pleasant memories of my elementary and high school years.

Third, my college years at UP, Iloilo and Diliman were also filled with scholastic achievements. I received the Fernando Lopez Scholarship in Iloilo for attaining the highest grade in the whole university. In Diliman, I graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry missing only 0.02 points to graduate CUM LAUDE(with honors). I passed the National Board for Chemist taking 3rd Place.

Fourth, my graduate school years at the University Of Illinois in Chicago were also filled with pleasant memories. Those years were the hardest and most challenging years of my life. Those years started with seeing my first snow in US, followed by raising three children ( my 4th child was born after my graduate school years) while a graduate and teaching assistant and culminated with my Ph.D graduation in Pharmaceutical Chemistry in 1964.

Fifth, my professional career working as a chemist for 20 years for three private companies and later for the federal government (FDA) for another 12 years ( as team leader) were unforgettable. My years in FDA were the happiest and most productive years in my professional career. I was informed by my superiors in FDA that I was the first Filipino-American Chemistry team leader in the Center of New drugs, Division of Anti-infectives in the history of the US Food and Drug Administration.

Sixth, Macrine and my involvement with the activities of the Filipino-American Community in the Washington, D.C., Kansas City, Missouri, Modesto and Pinole, California areas were memories that we will treasure and will never forget as long as we live.
Macrine helping in the distribution of free medicines during MI, Inc Medical Mission, Mogpog. Marinduque, 2011.
 

Last, but not least were the civic, social and humanitarian projects that Macrine and I had been involved since the late 1960's here in the Philippines and US. Our involvement with the Marinduque International, Inc medical mission projects since 1998 to the present are memories we will never forget. The letters of Appreciation and Thanks that Macrine and I received from the Office of the Governor in Marinduque in 2009 regarding our efforts in promoting tourism in the province, we will always treasure. The publication of my two articles in HULIQ News about Eco tourism in Marinduque in 2010 was indeed memorable and unforgettable.

We are not rich in GOLD or SILVER, but in MEMORIES, ACCOMPLISHMENTS and Personal Relationships.
The front yard of our Retirement Home ( The Main House) Marinduque -Chateau Du Mer, A Seaside Garden and Beach Paradise

Meanwhile, enjoy this photo from my backyard

 

Our Maryland and FDA Years (1990-2002) for the StoryWorth Book of Memories

This is my response to the query describing our Maryland and FDA years for StoryWorth Book of Memories. The following is an excerpt from Chapter 11 of my autobiography titled FDA Years and Maryland-1990 to 2002

Macrine(RIP) and I in front of our Colesville, MD residence on our way to the Grand Ball of the Philippine-American Foundation of Charities,1999

By Fall of 1990, our four children had all completed their Bachelor degrees. Our oldest son(Dodie) had graduated from UC Davis law school and married a classmate. Our oldest daughter(Dinah) also has finished her Bachelors degree and also has married a former classmate in high school who had also finished his Bachelor degree. Our two younger children(David E and Ditas M) were pursuing graduate studies. Our younger son was pursuing a master degree at Carnegie Mellon University and our youngest daughter was also studying for her Master's degree at University of Southern California after graduating from UC, Berkeley with honors.

When I received a job offer from FDA, I accepted the position even though I will be receiving about $10K less in salary. We really do not need a high income at the stage of our life since our four children had already finished their bachelors degrees. Our two youngest children have scholarship money for their graduate degrees. In addition, I have learned a lesson, ( after working for four employers in the private industry) that if you want job stability and security, worked for the Federal Government.

So with high hopes and a sense of adventure, Macrine(RIP) and I moved to the Washington, D.C area in the Fall of 1990. Our moving expenses were all paid by the Federal Government. We settled in our newly purchased home in Colesville, MD without touching any of our household goods. Both the packing, shipping and unpacking of our goods were paid by the government.
The Parklawn Building, FDA, Center of Drugs, Rockville, MD. This was the location of my first office. The building is a scene of numerous demonstrations against FDA during my first five years in this office. 

I started as a Review Chemist in the Office of new Drug Chemistry, Division of Anti-Infective Drug Products. After three years( 1993), I was promoted to Expert GS-14 with expertise in anti-malarial, anti-parasitic and systemic anti-fungal drug products. My promotion was published in the Philippines News dated March 31-April 6, 1993. It was written by Ernesto C. Parial, NY/NJ Bureau Editor. An excerpt of the article reads:

KATAGUE VOTED BY FDA UNIT TO GS-14

My election to the United States Pharmacopeia Council of Experts is one of the highlights of my career with FDA along with my GS-14 Expert Promotion

Colesville, MD- Dr David B Katague has been voted by the FDA Expert Regulatory Scientist Peer Review for promotion to GS-14. Katague's expertise is anti-malaria, anti-parasitic and topical anti-fungal drug products. The promotion is a high honor, for out of more that 90 review chemists at the Center of Drug and Evaluation Research, only seven review chemists have passed the screening and approval of the Peer Review Committee, to the GS-14 status.

Dr Katague has served as a Review Chemist at FDA for almost three years. He has also more than 20 years of academic and industrial experience in the field of pesticide research and regulations. Prior to joining FDA, Dr. Katague worked as a research chemist for Stauffer Chemicals and Chevron Company at Richmond, California for several years. He and his family have been active with the Filipino-American Community from 1974 to 1990 in the San Francisco Bay Area. Dr. Katague was president of the University of the Philippines Alumni Association, Berkeley Chapter, 1988-1990.

At present, Dr. Katague and his wife, the former Macrine Nieva Jambalos of Boac, Marinduque reside in Colesville, MD ( a suburb of Washington, DC). The Katagues have four children, all professionals, residing in the East Bay.

Dr. Katague was born in Iloilo City, Philippines and was naturalized US citizen in 1972. He obtained his B.S. in Chemistry degree from the University of the Philppines and M.S. And Ph.D. degrees in Pharmaceutical Chemistry from the University of Illinois, Chicago.

In 1997, I was again promoted to Chemistry Team Leader, supervising the work of six reviewers ( five with doctorate degrees). As far as I know, I was the first Filipino-American who has achieved this position in FDA. As team leader, I was responsible for prioritizing, assigning, and assuring the technical accuracy of all chemistry, manufacturing and control issues for all new drug applications submitted to the Division of Anti-Infective Drug Products. As team leader, I also give advice, instruct and promote high morale and teamwork in my group. In 1998, I won the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Award. The citation reads, “For outstanding accomplishments in fostering the objectives of the EEO Program by hiring minorities and encouraging their professional growth while providing excellent leadership.”

I have received numerous certificates of appreciation, awards in leadership and communications, commendation for teamwork and excellence in the accomplishment of the FDA mission. I have also received several letters of appreciation from private industry for my review work.

In 1995, I was elected to the United States Pharmacopeia, (USP), Committee of Revision(CR), Standards Division. As an elected member, I was responsible for establishing standards of identity, safety, quality, purity of drug substances and drug products as well as in-vitro and diagnostics products, dietary supplements and related articles used in health care. Election to this body is a very selected process. It is held every five years. In 1995, there were more than 700 scientists nation-wide from academia, government, and industry who volunteered to serve. USP narrowed it down to 256 final nominees. Of the 256, only 128 were elected. Election to the USP Committee of Revision confirms that the person is both the national and international expert in the field of election. In my case, it was in the field of antibiotics, natural products and botanicals.

The University of the Philippines Alumni Newsletter congratulated me with this statement, “ We join with your colleagues and your family in congratulating you for this singular honor, which brings prestige to the Philippines as well”. In March, 2000 I was reelected for another 5 year term.


My career in FDA would not be complete if I do not mentioned the terrorist bombing of the World Trade Center in New York and the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. I remember clearly what I was doing and how I felt afterward, that morning in September 11, 2001.

The office of New Drug Chemistry had a joint meeting with representatives of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (PHARMA) at the Hilton Hotel in Gaithersburg, MD. At about 9:20AM, we received an announcement that the meeting is canceled and we can go home, since the World Trade Center in New York was burning. All of the attendees went to the hotel lobby and the TV was announcing the news. I felt sick, depressed but helpless to see the burning WTC building((see photo above). Later, I learned that the Pentagon in Washington DC was also bombed and another plane crashed in the field somewhere in Southern Pennsylvania. Later I also found out that this United Airline plane was intended for the White House. Had it not been for the courageous heroics of several passengers, the White House would have suffered the same fate as the WTC and the Pentagon.

The most heinous crime of the century produced thousands of burnt victims. Two drugs in my Division, Sulfamylon and Silvadene, approved for the treatment of burns were out of supply. A chemistry manufacturing supplement has to be approved to manufacture more of these ointments in a new facility. This required a review by the chemist, an inspection of the facility by a field inspector, my approval as the chemistry team leader plus the paper work by the project manager. The drugs are needed immediately, so we have to do an expedited review of the manufacturing supplement. It took us only 12 hours to approve the new facility and the review of the chemistry, manufacturing and control submission. This review normally will take at least one month to three months depending on the availability of the field inspector and the schedule of the review chemist.
 

In December, 2001, the four members of my review team received a special cash award and recognition award from FDA management for our work on expediting review of two drugs, Sulfamylon and Silvadene.. Of my more than a dozen awards I had, this one is the most appreciated. I felt that I have done my job as a public servant and had helped the victims of the terrorist attack in a timely manner. The photo above, the first picture I saw on television the morning of September 11, 2001, I will never forget as long as I live.

In January, 2002 I received another award for my work on Doxycycline, an antibiotic needed to treat anthrax victims due to bio terrorism activities from unknown terrorists.
Letters sent to Tom Brokaw of NBC and others containing anthrax spores as part of bio terrorism activities in 2002-Photo from pbs.org

Macrine and I were also actively involved with Filipino-American community in the tri-state area of Maryland, Virginia and Washington, DC. We were also active with the Marinduquenos of the Capital Area (MACA). Some of MACA's projects were giving scholarships to needy students in PI. We also collaborated with the humanitarian projects of “ Feed the Hungry, Inc”in Marinduque. In 1998, we participated in the medical mission to Marinduque. We donated 100 used eyeglasses, medical supplies and equipments to the local hospital. In May, 2001 we again participated in the medical mission sponsored by Marinduque International,Inc.. I helped in the distribution of drugs and served as acting treasurer during the mission week, while Macrine was Executive Director of the organization.

Macrine short biography was published in MI, Inc Newsletter when she was elected President in 2003 as follows. "Macrine was born in Boac and a product of the Immaculate Conception Academy High School. She obtained her Bachelor in Business Administration degree in 1957 from the University of Santo Tomas. Two month after graduation she married her college sweetheart, David Katague from Iloilo, who was then teaching chemistry at UP Diliman. They immigrated to the US in 1960.

Macrine stayed home for 18 years raising her four children but decided to go back to nursing school in California. In 1979, she received her Bachelor of Science degree from Holy Name College in Oakland, CA. as well as a Certificate in Public Health Nursing specializing with Spanish speaking patients.
 

In 1990, Macrine and David moved to Maryland where she worked for nine years as Quality Improvement Nurse for several home health organizations in the Washington, DC area. It was then, when she joined the Marinduqueno Association of the Capital Area (MACA) and became an active member of the association. She retired in 1998 and got involved with the Filipino-American organizations in the DC metropolitan area".

 

In June, 1999, Macrine was elected overall Chairperson of the Festival Committee that was in charge of the celebration of Philippines Independence for the whole month of June. An article was published by the Manila Mail, dated June 15, 1999. An excerpt of the news article written by Bing C. Branigin reads:

RP TAKES CENTER STAGE-45 GROUPS JOIN PARADE IN D.C.

“A big crowd watched the Philippines took center stage when Filipino-Americans stage a colorful parade, fair and cultural show along historic Pennsylvania Avenue on June 6.

Filipino Americans display their pride in their culture and heritage to mark the 101st anniversary of independence from Spain and more than a century of Philippines- American relations.

More than 45 Filipino- American organizations participated in the parade and whole day fair and cultural shows. They are groups from Washington, D.C., Maryland, Northern Virginia, South Carolina and the 40 strong Ati-atihan group from Virginia Beach.

The Marinduquenos who are this year hosts, showed their Moriones, clad in colorful costumes and mask.

Macrine Katague, Philippine Festival chairperson, said she was really impressed by the number of groups who participated. For the last six months, the Philippine Committee had been meeting regularly to make this year's event better.

A group of twenty food vendors sold favorite Philippine dishes, like lechon, pancit etc...For drinks, there was San Miguel beer, sago at gulaman, coconut juice and halo-halo. There were also twenty tents filled with dry goods, like T-shirts, jewelry, gift items, travel agencies and phone cards. One of the highlights of the fair was on-the-spot painting contest for the kids. The Philippine Embassy displayed stamp collection, fabrics and handicraft from the Philippines

 Macrine with Ambassador Rabe Opening the Fair and Parade

Ambassador and Mrs Raul Rabe, patiently stayed at the Fair from 9:00AM to 6:00PM, enjoying all the activities. Rabe will end his term the end of this month. He will be replaced by Ambassador Ernesto Maceda.

Mr. Rabe told Manila Mail “ This is a great thing that we are celebrating our independence here in Pennsylvania Avenue. I noticed that every year we are getting better and bigger,. Hopefully we will keep the momentum going”..

To show their support to their “kababayans”, Marinduquenos from New Jersey came to town. Al Molato who represented the Eastern Seaboard Marinduqueno said, “ This is fantastic, imagine our small island is so small and taking a big role in the capital to host a big endeavor like this. I would like to salute my co-marinduquenos and Macrine Katague the chairperson, for a wonderful job.”

Our life in Maryland would not be complete, if I do not write about our time exchange vacation activities through Interval International. In 1994, we purchased a time share at Lake Tahoe, Nevada at the 5 star resort, "The Ridge". Since then we have exchanged one week of vacation time at Cancun, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Aruba, Malaga Spain, Morocco, Kawaii, Maui, Hawaii and our favorite city, Las Vegas Nevada. We have also been to Rome, Italy and London, England. We have been Ontario and Vancouver, Canada and almost all the big cities in the US. We also had taken a cruise at the Bahamas. Macrine had also visited Turquiose Island. Today, we have a hard time traveling and our dreams of going to the Holy Land will now be on hold. It is sad to say that we have traveled more places outside the Philippines than in the Philippines except in Boracay, Iloilo, Tagaytay and Baguio. Macrine had been to Cebu and I had been to Naga to see Mt. Mayon. We hope we can visit Davao and the Ilocos Region, but at present traveling in the Philippines is quite inconvenient if not dangerous specially in Southern Mindanao and also of the Covid-19 pandemic.

In July, 1998 I received an outstanding Senior-Citizen Award in Chemistry, Science and Research. I was awarded a medal and plaque. The award was presented by Philippine Centennial Committee of the Philippine American Foundation of Charities.

Prior to my retirement on October, 31, 2002, I was nominated by The Philippine Embassy for the Presidential Award, for Filipino Individuals Overseas,called PAMANA NG PILIPINO Award in Chemistry..

My twelve years in FDA was the happiest and most productive years of my professional life. Our involvement with the Filipino-American community will be memories that we will never forget. The next entry to this blog will be life after retirement.  

The highlight of our stay in the Washington DC area is my employment with the Food and Drug Administration as Chemistry Team Leader for the Center Of New Drugs in Silver Spring, Maryland.
 

 Winter Scene in Front of Our Residence at Hammonton Road, Colesville, MD

This was the place where Macrine and I were the happiest because of our active involvement with the Filipino-American community.


Cherry Blossoms at the Tidal Basin

My favorite time of the year in the DC area is spring time. The city is famous for it annual Cherry Blossom Festival. The National Cherry Blossom Festival is a spring celebration in Washington, D.C. commemorating the March 27, 1912, gift of Japanese cherry trees from Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo to the city of Washington. Mayor Ozaki donated the trees in an effort to enhance the growing friendship between the United States and Japan and also celebrate the continued close relationship between the two nations.

We have sponsored and attended several cultural activities sponsored by the Filipino-American Association during our 12 years in the DC area. One that I remember is the Wings of Song Concert in 2000. I am reposting this excerpt from my blogs.     

Photo Memories of the On Wings of Song Concert, 2000

On November 17, 2000, my wife and I hosted two singers from the On Wings of Song concert held in Washington DC. I have almost forgotten this memorable event in our social life in the Washington DC area. But last week, after I was befriended by Jonathan Badon in FaceBook, pleasant memories of this concert inspired me to post the following pictures in this blog.

For those of you who have not heard of the "On Wings of Song 2000": It was a tour of the Music Theater Foundation of the Philippines(MTFP). It aimed to foster Filipino cultural awareness with a scripted concert tracing the history of the Philippines through choreographed songs. This concert showcased six of Philippines finest musical talents, singing excerpts from classical opera, Broadway, Kundiman, folk songs and Pop Music. It was headed by Fides Cuyugan Asensio. The singers were Jonathan Badon(tenor), Lorna Llames(soprano), Bituin Domicel (soprano), Nova Ramirez( mezzo Soprano, and Marvin Gayramon ( baritone). The show was directed by Paul Morales.
Members of the Committee and Host Families
 
Pre- Concert Reception/Welcome at the residence of the Katagues in Colesville, MD Welcome Dinner at our Residence in Silver Spring, Maryland-This was in the Basement in our House at Hammonton Road.
 
Dinner Reception at Ambassador Maceda Residence after the concert
At the Ambassador Residence after the Dinner Reception

 

Pleasant Memories, Indeed!!!