The Victor Statue in Pasig City, Philippines, by Jefre

The Victor Statue- Dedicated to the Global Filipino 

The Victor is a colossal statue at the Pasig portion of Bridgetowne in Metro Manila, Philippines. At night time it is lighted:

Robinsons Land announced in 2019 that it would be installing a colossal statue at Bridgetowne, its own township spanning Pasig and Quezon City. Named The Victor, the statue was projected to be the "tallest lighting projection" in the world.The Victor was unveiled in August 2023.

Statue

The Victor was designed by Filipino-American artist Jefrë💚. It is mainly made from marine-grade perforated steel art from China. It stands 55 meters (180 ft) on a 5 m (16 ft) podium. It weighs 299.37 tonnes (660,000 lb).

It has a translucent surface that can be lit up with various colors at night through projection mapping.

The Victor is a tribute to Filipino businessman John Gokongwei(1926–2019). The statue depicts a man with one arm raised as if it is celebrating a victory. Jefrë also dedicates the statue to the "global Filipino".

💚 Jefre Figueras Manuel, commonly known by the mononym Jefrë, is a Filipino-American visual artist based in Orlando, Florida.

Jefre Figueras Manuel was born and raised in Chicago to Filipino parents who settled in the United States in the 1970s. His mother is a nurse from Santo Domingo, Ilocos Sur while his father is an accountant from San Pedro, Laguna. Jefrë's parents also had part-time jobs in design; his father did landscape contracting and design and his mother created wedding flower arrangements.

He initially pursued a degree in medicine for his collegiate studies. He later took courses at the Art Institute of Chicago and attended Ohio State University to study urban design and planning.

He first worked for Skidmore, Owings & Merrill in the 1990s. After he had a heart attack in 2007 or 2008 at age 35, he decided to set up his own organization, Studio Jefrë (StudioJEFRë), and pursued a career in public art. He did various projects involving community design, public art, parks and plazas, sculpture, temporary installations, interior design, avant-garde landscapes, eco-installations, and campus planning. He also joined competitions as well.

His works has been in public display in various cities in the United States such as Miami, New Orleans, Philadelphia, Orlando, and San Antonio as well as in London and Abu Dhabi. He has also done works in the Philippines as well.

Notable works

Jefrë is also the designer of the 15.54 m (51.0 ft) tall The Jax stainless steel sculpture to be built at the former site of Jacksonville Landing in Jacksonville, Florida. The artwork received mixed local reception. It has been a subject of a petition to stop its conception.He also did works that are publicly displayed in the Philippines. This includes Time in SM Megamall along EDSA, a mirror stainless steel sculpture of a human figure with a box head to convey the idea to value time in the context of the being stuck in traffic and portray people as "building blocks" of a city.

 Other works include the Talking Heads at the Five Ecom Center Building at the SM Mall of Asia complex and the Sculpture Contour Series which consist of painted statues of a tamaraw, a tarsier, a rooster and an eagle in SM Aura Premier in 2016.

In 2018 he did the Tree of Life fiberglass sculpture installed at Robinsons Place Naga in Naga, Camarines Sur. In 2023, The Victor a 55 m (180 ft) light installation in Bridgetowne was completed.

In Addition, Filipino-American artist JEFRË has introduced "Heart in the Park," a seven-story stainless steel sculpture that now rises as Port St. Lucie’s newest landmark.

The twisting, mirror-polished structure reflects its surroundings while framing a dramatic pedestrian bridge that cuts through the center of the heart, inviting visitors to walk within the work itself.

Unveiled before community members, civic leaders, and art lovers, the installation is both monumental and intimate. “This piece is not just a sculpture,” said JEFRË. “It is a symbol of hope, unity, and resilience. The heart is universal — it transcends culture, language, and borders.”

Known for creating large-scale icons such as "The Victor" in the Philippines, JEFRË continues to define skylines with works that carry both weight and meaning. With its gleaming surfaces and architectural presence, "Heart in the Park" is set to anchor the city as a cultural destination and symbol of connection.

Meanwhile, here's R-Evolution -A 45Ft Illuminated Sculpture in San Francisco by Marco Cochrane

R-Evolution at Embarcadero Plaza

A striking new addition to the city’s public art landscape, R-Evolution, a 45-foot-tall illuminated sculpture by renowned artist Marco Cochrane, will debut in Embarcadero Plaza on Thursday, April 10, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM. Originally unveiled at Burning Man, this monumental artwork embodies strength, resilience, and the power of representation. By placing R-Evolution in Embarcadero Plaza, the city continues its tradition of championing public art as a force for dialogue, civic engagement, and cultural revitalization—especially in a time when public spaces are being redefined.

Embarcadero Plaza was selected for its cultural and historical significance as a gateway to San Francisco. Positioned in front of the iconic Ferry Building and along Market Street, a major artery of the city, the location serves as both a vibrant meeting point and a space deeply connected to the city’s artistic and economic pulse. R-Evolution stands as a powerful symbol of empowerment and transformation, reinforcing San Francisco’s progressive spirit while activating a highly visible public space with a presence that is both bold and introspective.

With its daily breathing motion and illuminated presence at night, R-Evolution offers a dynamic, interactive experience that invites people to return, reflect, and engage. The installation is designed to draw visitors and increase foot traffic to the already thriving creative hub where local artists regularly sell their work—ensuring that this artwork not only inspires but also supports San Francisco’s artistic community

Lastly, Meet Jonathan — The 191-Year-Old Tortoise!

Jonathan, the Seychelles giant tortoise, just celebrated his 191st birthday, making him the oldest living land animal in the world! Born around 1832, Jonathan has witnessed centuries of history from Napoleon’s exile to modern-day inventions — and has outlived generations of humans.

Though blind and without a sense of smell, he’s still full of life, enjoying hand-fed meals, socializing with fellow tortoises, and even maintaining a healthy love life! Living at St. Helena’s Plantation House, Jonathan is more than a record-breaker — he’s a symbol of resilience, longevity, and the wonders of nature.

Credit: St Helend Island Info

The USS Potomac Cruise of the Oakland-SFO Bay

I signed up for the THD USS Potomac Cruise tomorrow,  Saturday ( see instruction to residents below)💚. Total cost of the Cruise and Lunch is $85💙.  Here's a description of the cruise from the Internet.  

The USS Potomac offers two-hour and three-hour cruises, some with narrated themes.  

In every cruise, you’ll cruise by huge container ships unloading and loading cargo.  After passing under the Bay Bridge, you’ll see the San Francisco skyline, cruise by Alcatraz, Angel Island, the bay’s lighthouses, around Yerba Buena and Treasure Island.  If the winds and tides are with us on our three-hour cruises, you’ll even travel underneath the spectacular Golden Gate Bridge.

The USS Potomac normally operates live-narrated San Francisco Bay public cruises from Opening Day on the Bay in late April through Veteran’s Day in November.  She closes out the year with an adult Holiday Cruise and Santa Cruises when our special guest from the North Pole joins us aboard. 

The narrators will talk about the history of the Bay Area and point out surrounding landmarks, and discuss what effect’s FDR’s administration had on the Bay Area through the New Deal and WPA projects.

Guests may watch a 15-minute video in the Visitor Center prior to the cruise that provides a glimpse of FDR’s life and times aboard the USS Potomac, and reveals the twists and turns of her journey to the Bay Area, and ultimately the remarkable restoration of this National Historic Landmark and national treasure.

Come join us and walk the decks once traversed by presidents, royalty (including the King of Rock ‘N Roll), and the First Lady of the United States Eleanor Roosevelt.  You’ll see the fantail, where FDR loved to enjoy cocktails, sparing or joking with the press; the saloon where he took his meals and worked on his stamp collection, the elevator he used to pull himself up to the top deck,  the room where he worked on his stamp collections, and his cabin where he retired for the night.  You’ll see the crew cabins, officer’s and guest quarters, and the wheelhouse where the captain drives the ship.

A cruise on the Potomac is more than just time on the water.  It’s an opportunity to step back in time and imagine what life aboard must have been like back in the 1940s for the 32nd president of the United States.

More than half a million people have visited and cruised aboard the Potomac, a National Historic Landmark, since she was opened to the public at Jack London Square in Oakland, California, in the summer of 1995 after a 14-year, $5 million restoration.   Tours and cruises are offered throughout the year.  Please see our current schedule.

At 165-feet-long, the ship was used by FDR for leisure time and to host dignitaries, high government officials, diplomats, kings and queens, and family members.  Today, the Potomac is dedicated to the story of FDR who, as the 32nd president of the United States, led the nation through the Great Depression and World War II.  He also authored the New Deal post-war rebuilding plan which included, among many local projects, the construction of the Golden Gate and San Francisco Bay bridges.https://usspotomac.org/

Accessibility

The Presidential Yacht USS Potomac is a historically preserved vessel. As such, it does not fully comply with the facility access standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ship allows limited access for the mobility impaired. Wheelchairs are limited to the main deck only. Restrooms onboard the ship are not accessible as the maximum wheelchair width (outside of wheel to outside of wheel) is 25 inches. Accessible restrooms are available in the Port of Oakland Buildings next to the Potomac. USS Potomac docents and crew are not allowed to provide physical assistance to mobility impaired individuals; including lifting occupied wheelchairs over obstacles. For Details visit:  

https://usspotomac.org/public-cruises/?gad_source=1

💚

💙Advance Gift for Sailing with the USS Potomac, binocular and 3 candies and my name tag. Also additional instruction what to wear and bring ( sunglasses and Hat).

Meanwhile, Did you know that .......

The popular Filipino dish dinuguan (pork blood stew) traces its roots to pre-colonial times?

It was created as a way to use every part of a slaughtered pig, ensuring that nothing went to waste—a culinary practice born from necessity and ingenuity. This tradition reflects the resourcefulness of early Filipinos, who turned simple ingredients into a dish that remains beloved today.

Finally, My Photo Of the Day, Mt. Mayon ( Perfect cone) Volcano, Albay, Philippines

 

My Play with Words- Part 3 of 5

Enrich Your Vocabulary with Meaningful Reflections-My Play with Words-Part 3 of 5

Unlocking Rare Words: Enrich Your Vocabulary with Meaningful Reflections

Language has the power to elevate thought, inspire action, and deepen our understanding of the world. Some words, though rarely used, hold profound significance and deserve a place in our conversations and writing. Here, we explore fifteen such rare gems, each with its own story and flavor, seamlessly woven into a journey of life’s experiences.

The Beauty of Balance and Emotion

In a world driven by excess, abstemiousness stands as a virtue — the practice of temperance, moderation, and frugality. It reminds us that happiness often lies not in abundance, but in thoughtful restraint. Yet, despite our best efforts to remain composed, moments of choler can seize us — bursts of anger or irritability that reveal our human imperfections.

Life’s transitions can bring pain, and sometimes disseverance — the painful severing of relationships or ideals — is inevitable. But with every ending comes an epiphany, a sudden insight or realization that enlightens the path ahead.

Growth, Connection, and Vulnerability

Nature teaches us fecundity, the extraordinary capacity for productivity and fruitfulness, not just in the fields but in the mind and spirit. Likewise, social grace often relies on ingratiation, the subtle art of endearing oneself to others, sometimes through charm, sometimes through genuine connection.

Yet, vulnerability manifests in many forms. Lachrymation, the act of weeping or crying, is not just an outpouring of sadness but a release — an honest testament to our emotional depth.

The Masks We Wear

Modern society often dazzles us with meretriciousness, a superficial flashiness that masks the absence of true value. Beneath the glitter, obstreperousness erupts — the boisterous, noisy clamor of those seeking attention without substance.

Worse still, prevaricatory tendencies — deception, misleading half-truths — can erode trust, especially in leadership and relationships. Yet, amidst such façades, there remains the rhapsodical soul, ecstatic and exalted, who sees beauty and grandeur where others see only the mundane.

The Discipline of Mastery

To create something of enduring worth requires sedulousness — the diligent perseverance that fuels innovation, art, and wisdom. In contrast, tenebrism captures the darkness and gloom we sometimes traverse, both literally and metaphorically, in pursuit of clarity.

Even institutions face reckoning. When values are betrayed, there comes a time to unfrock, to oust or dismiss those unworthy of their roles, be it in religion, politics, or business.

Gazing Beyond

Finally, as we look upward, we are reminded of the welkin — the vast sky and firmament that frame our existence. It humbles us, beckoning us to dream beyond, to seek enlightenment, and to continually evolve.

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Mastering these rare yet potent words is more than an exercise in vocabulary. It is an invitation to explore the nuances of human experience, each term offering a lens through which we can better understand ourselves and the world around us.

Meanwhile, Here's my Photo of the Day- An Aerial Root that looks Like a Small

P....?

Finally My Photo of the Day- Flaming Roll from Tatsu Sushi

And Cravings for French Fries Satiated in Benicia, Friday, August 15, 2025

Cure for Parkinson Disease- California Department of Aging

From My Health Readings This Week

Japanese scientists have achieved a remarkable step forward in treating Parkinson’s disease by implanting lab-grown brain cells derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS). These specialized cells are designed to replace the dopamine-producing neurons that are progressively lost in patients, leading to the motor symptoms associated with the disease. Early trials are showing that these implants can survive, integrate into the brain, and begin producing dopamine.

Patients who have undergone this experimental treatment are already displaying improved motor function, and scans confirm that the transplanted cells are actively working. If ongoing trials continue to show success, this therapy may not only relieve symptoms but potentially restore lost brain activity. This breakthrough could mark the beginning of regenerative medicine becoming a reality for millions worldwide living with Parkinson’s.

Meanwhile......

Scientists at the University of Florida developed an mRNA cancer vaccine that rapidly reprograms the immune system to attack glioblastoma, the most aggressive brain tumor.

In a first-in-human trial with four adult patients, the personalized vaccine, made from patients’ own tumor cells and delivered via lipid nanoparticles, triggered robust immune responses within 48 hours, mirroring results from preclinical mouse and dog studies.

The vaccine, which uses a novel clustered nanoparticle delivery system, is now advancing to a Phase 1 pediatric clinical trial for brain cancer, with plans to include up to 24 adult and pediatric patients to confirm safety and optimal dosing, followed by a Phase 2 trial with 25 children.

Finally.......

In a stunning medical breakthrough, scientists have developed a technique to retrain the immune system to stop attacking the body, a discovery that may reverse autoimmune diseases like type 1 diabetes. This innovation marks a major shift in how we approach chronic illnesses caused by immune system malfunction.

Instead of suppressing immunity, researchers created a therapy that re-educates immune cells to recognize healthy tissues as "self" and not a threat. This was tested in animal models with promising results. The immune system, once calmed and corrected, stopped destroying insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, restoring insulin production and reversing diabetic symptoms.

This approach tackles the root of autoimmune disease rather than just managing symptoms. By halting the attack at its source, this therapy could offer long-term relief or even a cure for millions living with autoimmune conditions.

Experts say this breakthrough opens new doors not just for diabetes, but also for conditions like lupus, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Clinical trials in humans are on the horizon, and the medical world is watching closely.

This isn't science fiction. It's the beginning of a new era in precision immunotherapy and chronic disease reversal.

Personal Note: TO ALL SENIORS Citizens of the State of California. Here's the site for Programs and Services, by The California Department of Aging.

https://aging.ca.gov/Programs_and_Services/

Original Joe Restaurant in Walnut Creek

This place was temporarily closed 3 Days after Operation due to a Kitchen Fire. I believe it is still closed as of this writing date.

https://bayareatelegraph.com/2025/08/25/more-details-emerge-on-original-joes-in-walnut-creek-as-reopening-is-delayed/

The recent opening of Original Joe Restaurant is another fantastic addition to the Walnut Creek culinary Scene last August 14.  If you love American- Italian food, this is the place to go. Here's the latest writeup and some photos of the menu I found in my Facebook page for your viewing pleasure. This place is in my wish list.    

Opening & Local Coverage

• The grand opening took place Thursday, August 14, 2025, bringing the iconic San Francisco Italian-American restaurant to Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek.SFistABC7 San Francisco

• KGO-TV (ABC7) reported that locals are thrilled: one resident called it “the most exciting thing that's happened in the culinary world for this area in some time” and noted the new location features the original sign from the 1937 Tenderloin opening.ABC7 San Francisco

• SFist described the space as massive and stylish: 300 seats including cocktail lounge, private dining, and substantial indoor/outdoor areas. They even noted Mayor Cindy Darling proclaimed August 14 as "Original Joe’s Day" in Walnut Creek.SFist

• A Yahoo report confirmed the August 14 opening at 1300 S Main St., with doors opening to the public at 11 AM.Yahoo

Dining Room Area

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Early Reviews & Buzz

OpenTable

• Though formal reviews are just starting to appear, the description highlights “exceptional food, service, and ambiance,” “stunning decor,” and “delicious dishes.”OpenTable+1

• OpenTable rankings show 5.0 “Exceptional” rating (based on 30 diners) and lists Original Joe’s as a top Italian and American restaurant in Walnut Creek.OpenTable+1

Open Kitchen Area

• Early feedback on Yelp is also glowing:

  “The food is absolutely outstanding—fresh, flavorful, and authentic with every bite. The drinks were equally impressive, crafted with care…”Yelp

• Another user posted:

  “No disrespect for the many great restaurants in Walnut Creek, but Original Joe's truly hits every mark: food, service, and ambiance… Every meal was delicious. Such large portions that we had a second meal the next day.”Yelp+1

• Yelp’s broader rankings list it among the top spots under “Old School Italian,” with a 4.6 rating from 22 reviews—not bad for the first few days!Yelp

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Here are some photos of the Dishes

Fillet of Sole 

French Fries

 

Rib-Eye and Mashed Potatoes

The Calamari

The Coconut- Margarita

Summary

• Opening date: August 14, 2025 — Confirmed by multiple outlets.

• Media coverage: Warm and celebratory, with civic recognition (Original Joe’s Day).

• Reviews: Early diners are loving it—praised for food, drinks, décor, atmosphere, service, and generous portions.

At Opening Day, the waiting time was only about one hour according to one of restaurant's patrons that day ( FaceBook comment).   
I am getting hungry just looking at the Calamari. 

Meanwhile, here's news on latest Development in Downtown Walnut Creek. Brian Hirahara, son of our fellow resident Carle is involved in  this project. My Congratultions!

 

https://bayareatelegraph.com/2025/08/25/walnut-creeks-massive-24000-sqft-food-hall-is-coming-heres-everything-we-know-so-far/?fbclid=IwY2xjawMbWqFleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHr45QMkMEnqoLCj8Gwo-3iJsOspSLt-z7Gp-BpNroJ6S8HJuFTRnV4liU2Ie_aem_nxVFuLJtuGzNO_Hc5g95swI 

I am hoping a Filipino restaurant will be one of its tenants, so I do not have to drive to Concord or Pleasant Hill to enjoy Filipino Food

Finally, Did you know that....    

Original Joe's is a San Francisco institution with a history rooted in the city's Italian-American community. It began in 1937 as a small, 14-stool counter on Taylor Street, founded by Croatian immigrant Tony Rodin. The restaurant quickly gained popularity for its classic Italian-American comfort food and welcoming atmosphere. Over the years, it expanded, including a location in San Jose and a more recent move to North Beach after a fire. Original Joe's is now a multi-generational family-run business, with the third generation overseeing its operations. 

Key aspects of Original Joe's history:

• 1937: Founded by Tony Rodin on Taylor Street in San Francisco's Tenderloin. 
• 1956: A San Jose location was opened by partners who aimed to bring the San Francisco experience to the South Bay. 
• 2007: The original Taylor Street location was destroyed by a fire. 
• 2012: Original Joe's reopened in San Francisco's North Beach neighborhood. 
• Multi-Generational Family Business: The restaurant is now run by Tony Rodin's grandchildren. 
• Expansion: Original Joe's recently opened its first East Bay location in Walnut Creek. 
• Signature Dishes: Known for classic Italian-American comfort food and generous portions. 
• Community Hub: It has served a diverse clientele, from politicians to people from all walks of life. 
  
  
  
  
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