America's Presidents- What your History Teacher Never Told You

I attended last Sunday( April 6) one hour lecture at our Cinema( see brochure) above. It was one of the best lecture I have attended here at THD. It was informative, funny and Emeritus Professor Gerald Henig's cited a few scandalous stories about our previous Presidents. Some of the details in his lecture, I already know specifically the rankings since I have written a previous article on this subject.💚 Some of the other details I also have read previously. However, I learned a few new entertaining tidbits on the personal lives of some of our previous Presidents. There was no mention of our current president idiosyncrasies, except that he is listed currently as the WORST President in the United States. 

The author has no intention on writing about Donald Trump since there are already numerous books about him. 

💚https://chateaudumer.blogspot.com/2020/12/us-presidential-ranking-based-on-cbs.html

In the above article, the current Occupant in the White House is listed as the Worst President in the US.

Lincoln, Washington and F D Roosevelt are rated #1, 2 and 3 respectively.   

Dr Henig's book was available for purchase at $20 each.  Here are some reviews of the Book.

1. “A trove of entertaining stories about the drama, pratfalls, and sheer weirdness of presidents.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

2. A colorful US history book for adults that reveals little-known accounts, outlandish stories, and 70+ all-too-human fun facts about presidents.

3. "A dazzling and beguiling study of the nooks and crannies of the American Presidency. Read this book. Enjoy. And plan on winning your trivia bouts and bar bets."

4. —John A. Farrell, Pulitzer Prize finalist for Richard Nixon: The Life and author of Ted Kennedy: A Life

5. Go beyond chopping down cherry trees and Marilyn Monroe serenading happy birthday.

6. In this collection of interesting facts about presidents—some pivotal, others less so—learn about the real-life idiosyncrasies of the people who held the highest office in the United States.

7. Gerald S. Henig is professor emeritus of history who has been collecting facts to startle his students for over four decades—and has the Outstanding Professor Award and four Pi Kappa Delta Best Lecturer Awards to prove it.

8. His fully-documented revelations provide insights into the character and conduct of America's presidents—and how they were influenced by the same flaws and foibles as every Tom, Dick, and Harry.

Ranging from the startling to the scandalous, discover which president:

• built a tennis court—and then refused to be photographed in his tennis whites,
• privately admitted on more than one occasion that he was not fit for the job,
• ordered three bells to be rung when he walked the halls of the White House so the staff would stay out of sight,
• called his penis Jumbo (and was not shy about exhibiting it to justify its name),
• had to be restrained from beating his would-be assassin,
• claimed that he needed sex every day to avoid a severe headache.

9. A great book for history buffs, Hamilton fans, and anyone looking for fodder for their next dinner party, America's Presidents is full of unknown facts that are easy-to-digest, rarely spoken of, and as entertaining as they are educational.

10. Even "leaders of the free world" have their embarrassing, entertaining, and altogether shocking moments—and this book flings the doors of the White House wide open.

11. "America's Presidents is filled with fun stories and insightful anecdotes. We learn that presidents have peculiarities. More importantly, we are reminded that their peculiarities can shape the world."

In my previous US presidents Rankings Readings:  Can you Guess which President has the lowest IQ? For Details read:   

https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-lowest-IQ-of-any-US-President-What-is-the-highest-IQ-of-any-US-President

About the Author: Dr. Henig is emeritus professor of history at California State University, East Bay, 

where he has taught  for 39 years. He has written numerous articles on the political and military history of the Civil War

 and is the author of Henry Winter Davis: Antebellum and Civil War Congressman from Maryland 

(New York: Twayne Publishers, 1973) and co-author with Eric Niderost of Civil War Firsts: 

The Legacies of America's Bloodiest Conflict (Mechanicsburg, PA: Stackpole Books, 2001),

 now available in paperback under a new title: A Nation Transformed: How the Civil War Changed

 America Forever. (gerald henig)

Meanwhile, enjoy this photo of a rock garden:

Lastly, Did you Know That.....

China recently discovered a massive oilfield named Huizhou 19-6 in the South China Sea, 

with proven reserves exceeding 100 million tons of oil. The China National Offshore Oil

Corporation (CNOOC) accomplished this breakthrough, showcasing China's advancements

in deep-sea exploration and resource extraction. 

Located 170 kilometers off the coast of Shenzhen, this oilfield lies entirely within China's

Exclusive Economic Zone, eliminating territorial disputes and ensuring full control over its

resources. The discovery bolsters China's energy security and positions the country as 

a global leader in innovative exploration techniques.

Japan Has the Highest Average IQ Nation in the World

From My Readings This Week!

Japan leads with the highest average IQ, blending tradition and innovation to shape the future.

Japan leads the world with an impressive average IQ of 106.48, a reflection of its rich culture of discipline, innovation, and education. From the technological marvels of Tokyo to the timeless traditions of Kyoto, this intellectual prowess drives Japan's global influence in science, art, and philosophy, shaping a society that harmonizes ancient wisdom with modern progress.

Meanwhile, Did You Know that.....

The Philippines has a complex colonial past — one that saw three different flags raised over its islands in just a single lifetime.

First came Spain, which colonized the Philippines for 333 years, bringing Catholicism, Spanish surnames, and centralized governance.

Then the United States took over for nearly 50 years, introducing English, public education, and American-style democracy.

During World War II, Japan occupied the country for a brief but brutal period.

Lastly, Did you Know that.....

The Spratly Islands, a tiny, scattered group in the South China Sea, are at the heart of a massive territorial dispute. Multiple nations lay claim to these islands, including:

China

Vietnam

Philippines

Malaysia

Brunei

Taiwan

What’s at stake? Beyond the islands themselves — vital shipping lanes, fishing rights, and potential oil and gas reserves. The dispute has sparked tensions, military standoffs, and complex international negotiations.

Who controls them? Still up in the air.

Personal Note: Will Trump put his dirty hands and also claimed these islands?

Lastly, here are three photos of the Baby Shower held last Saturday for my first great grand son expected the first week of May. I will be a Super Lolo.

Travel with Me to Australia via Ditas Photos

Ditas on her first day of her Australian Adventure and Talk arrived in Sydney last week Sunday( March 30). My younger brother, Efren and family welcomed her. Although she was still suffering from jet lag, the Katague Clan treated her to lunch and show her beautiful Sydney and some of its tourist attractions ( the Opera House and Vicinity, Bondi Beach and Blue Mountains)

Efren is my younger brother. His family had been residents of Sydney for several decades. His son, David, my namesake had visited me here at THD just recently.  
 Here are some photos Ditas sent me on her first day in Australia. Ditas will speak at the Indigenous Data Conference in Canberra, April 3. Then she plans on Living aboard the Reef Encounter Boat in the Great Barrier Reef.  She will also visit Brisbane and Cairns.

Ditas FB message: After a long long flight-Fantastic visit with the Katague cousins in Sydney! Thank you for a great start of my voyage down under!

The Sydney Opera House - An Iconic Landmark 

My brother Efren and Sister-in-law, Lourdes with Ditas

Ditas with Efren's oldest Grand Daughter-Annie.   She is Beautiful! An Aussie-Pinoy Mestiza. I believe she is only 13 years old and in 9th Grade . 

Ditas Blue Mountain Tour, NSW, AU 

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1738895387058516
and Bondi Beach
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1195916605221536

Meanwhile, Did you know that....

The statue near Manila Cathedral isn’t just any Spanish king—it’s King Charles IV, honored for sending the smallpox vaccine to the Philippines in the early 1800s.

As part of the Balmis Expedition, this life-saving mission brought vaccines across Spanish territories, protecting countless Filipinos from the deadly disease.

While Spain’s rule was controversial, this act of medical aid left a lasting impact—so much so that Charles IV got a statue in Intramuros!

Finally Did you know that...

The Dao tree (Dracontomelon dao) can grow over 50 meters tall, with massive roots strong enough to break through concrete! This towering giant is a true testament to the power of nature.Dao provides high-quality lumber used for furniture, houses, and plywood production. Its durability makes it a valuable resource in construction and woodworking.

These unique Philippine woods are proof that the country’s forests once held some of the strongest and most valuable trees in the world!

Secrets for a Long-Lasting Marriage

From My Readings This Week: This posting is inspired from my recent meal time conversation with a THD couple residents who have been married for over 68 years.  

I have been married to one person for over 63 years, but now living alone since 2022.  I was often ask what my secrets or formula I had to attain that goal. My serious answer was always: Communication, Patience and Love.  My non-serious answer was; Made my wife thinks she is the boss, but in reality I am! Or Made you wife thinks she is the Boss, But in reality You Are!

My Wedding Day- May 8, 1957,  Boac, Marinduque, Philippines

Here are 8 traits of a long-lasting marriage that you can put into practice today, if you are still married. 

1. Understand compromise

Every couple in existence will have a conflict or some form of obstacle throughout their relationship. Some more severe than others. The number one thing to be resilient in the face of adversity is understanding how to compromise. Being able to solve problems together is crucial to a resilient marriage. This means knowing the needs and priorities of your partner and vice versa to clearly communicate and find common ground. Don’t throw in the towel to just “get it over.” True compromise is sitting and listening with an open mind to each other until each person feels heard and understood, and then making a mutual decision TOGETHER. 

2. Show emotion and be vulnerable

Gone are the days when men used to hide their emotions. Understanding and being in tune with your feelings and emotions can help you show compassion towards your partner in times of conflict. By showing your partner compassion, you are showing that you care and respect your partner. The vulnerability is what connects people and helps form the foundational bond of a long-lasting relationship. If we aren’t vulnerable, we aren’t connected. And if we’re not connected, we’re not in a real relationship.

3. Trust fully in your spouse

Trust is a major indicator of a resilient marriage and one of the most important things to keep strong in a marriage. If trust is broken or taken away, long-term work will have to be put in to redeem the relationship, and the trust may never come back. Trust isn’t just about infidelity, it’s about knowing that you are secure, your deepest thoughts are protected, and that no matter what your spouse will be there to love and support you in the long run.

4. Show physical affection- be intimate!

The last thing you want to happen in your marriage is to feel like you are platonic roommates. Physical intimacy is a strong foundation for a happy marriage and is what keeps your bond evolving and growing as time goes on. Intimacy helps you feel truly loved and accepted by your spouse and improves loyalty, honesty, and appreciation towards one another. Physical intimacy helps connect you together and makes you feel wanted and loved by your partner.

5. Respect one another

If you feel respected by your spouse and vice versa, you will grow security and confidence in your marriage. Respecting your partner in difficult times and in difficult situations (both within and outside of your relationship) helps your spouse feel truly appreciated and loved. When we care about others, we show them respect. So if you aren’t respecting your partner you’re sending the message that you don’t care about them.

6. Appreciate each and every moment of your time spent together

This means practicing mindfulness and being present. This could be putting your phone away during meals, eating together without the TV on and talking about your day, giving your spouse your full attention when together and showing them that you are there for them instead of just physically being by their side. Try an experiment: take a minimum of 15 minutes each day of 1 week to truly be present with your partner – see what happens.

7. Be best friends

Having a solid friendship with your spouse is the foundation of a happy marriage. You know each other better than you may know your close friends, you can laugh with each other and enjoy spur of the moment adventures, and can share many exciting memories as best friends would. By being your spouse’s friend, you will strengthen your relationship long-term and will know that you will be by each other’s side no matter what. Share secrets, tell stories, laugh together, cry together and explore together.

8. Make your marriage a priority in life

If you want your marriage to be resilient, you need to put your marriage first. Your spouse is not only your lover but your life partner and will be by your side throughout your entire life. Someone who has dedicated their life to you should be your number one priority. By making each other a priority, you are practicing the art of mutual respect, being in the moment, and every other trait explained above. Even when kids and “life” come into the picture, continuing to make your marriage a priority is a crucial factor in a long-lasting marriage. For Details read:

https://www.marriage.com/advice/relationship/traits-of-a-lasting-marriage/

Here is our Golden Wedding Anniversary Photo, Chateau Du Mer, Boac Mrinduque, Philippines, 2007

Meanwhile, Wishing You All....

Happy International Day of Happiness!

This year’s theme CARING AND SHARING reminds us that lasting happiness comes from caring for each other, feeling connected and being part of something bigger.

We’re encouraging 1 million extra acts of caring and sharing all around the world. And you can be part of it!

The International Day of Happiness was celebrated on 20 March, and was set up by the United Nations (UN) in 2013 as a day to celebrate the things that make people all over the world happy.

Lastly, Statistics and Demographics of THD Residents Based from the April 2025 Phone Book

Total Residents= 153,  Number of Couples= 17,  Number of Single Men= 22,   So the total number of men= 39 and total number of women = 115. That is around 1:3 Men to Women Ratio.  Note that there is one Female Resident not listed in the phone book.  We called her the Masked Lady or Ghost Lady.    

My Educated Guess, is that there are around 20 residents over 90 years old including myself. The average age of the residents is probably in the early 80's.  The 3:1 women to men ratio confirmed that women live longer than men. Does this mean that women are the stronger sex?    https://chateaudumer.blogspot.com/2024/10/why-women-live-longer-than-men.html