MARCH 2002

Recently I have heard that the Thai officials are being a bit strict regarding the nightlife in Bangkok in comparison to previous years. A friend of mine recently returned and he reported that the intent is not to close down the bars but to exercise a few more controls. Now, bars must close at 2 AM and no nudity is allowed. The ladies working in discos, i.e., Nana Disco must be at least 20 years old and the ladies in the bars must be 18 but later on this might change to 20. He indicated that the police are everywhere around Nana Plaza, enforcing everything and they are not being too friendly about it. For sure, don't argue with them. There appeared to be a large influx of Africans and Arabs in the Nana Plaza area and many of the locals that live there stay away because of the less than friendly attitudes. He also indicated that he talked to at least 10 Americans visiting the area and they indicated they were afraid to visit the Philippines because of the terrorists, bandits and kidnappings. They did not realize that Angeles City was experiencing business as usual and that they would be safe here. They react to what is heard on the news and CNN does not take the time to say there are locations one should stay away from but Angeles City is not one of them. The said that they heard that people taking a cab from the Airport are being kidnapped. Dear readers, Thailand is still a great place to visit and enjoy one's self, despite a few more rules and for sure, the Philippines and especially Angeles City is safe. I hate to keep beating that drum but it distresses me when I hear about people being reluctant to visit because of fear. Recently my son wrote and told me that armed robbers held up the bank he was working at in Las Vegas and he was forced to lie down on the floor with the other employees. They got away; now that is scary but does that mean everyone should avoid Las Vegas? 

GIVE ME A NAME

It is nice to be able to interject a little humor in this column and an E-mail sent to me by Stephen Clay caught my interest and I thought it was worth passing on. "Harry, I read recently that the setting for the film "Groundhog Day" was a town in Pennsylvania called Punxsutawney, more specifically, a wooded knoll there called Gobbler's Gulch. 
This set me thinking if there were places with even more ridiculous names. Maybe you could have a competition via your Harry the Horse column. Readers could send in other place names, and vote for the winner (with maybe a Dominos pizza for the person who sends in the winning name)! To start the ball rolling, how about these; 
Starting in the U.S. of A: Piddeville in Georgia, Jolly Dump in South Dakota, and Wankers Corner in Oregon.
In Iran there is a place called Shit, and another called Hole, (there's another Shit in Ethiopia). There's a Tit in Algeria, and a Cunte in Peru, a Pissy in France, a Pervyshag in Russia and in the Shetland Islands they have a Twatt! 
Anymore silly names?"
Well readers, what do you think? Can you come up with some other silly names? Send your names to me, via Lacasa@ag.triasia.net and I'll post the best next month. I'm pretty sure I can get Mr. Charley at Dominos Pizza to award a pizza to the person submitting the best entry, what the hell, if he doesn't the winner can get a pizza at the Hotel La Casa, which isn't as good as Dominos but will do, I may even throw in a free drink as well. That's no "horseshit".

CURRY LOVERS REJOICE!

When the Birds of Paradise (BOP) closed many customers were disappointed to find that they could no longer avail themselves of the wonderful tasting curry dishes prepared by the talented cook Naty. Rejoice folks, this horse met Naty recently and after having her teach my cook how to prepare a couple of dishes I sent her with a note of introduction to Mo at Kokomos and I am happy to report that she has been hired and the curry menu that was offered at BOP will be available starting this month. Wise decision Mo! 

OWEN DOLAN

Every once in a while I intend to enquire about the on-going investigation into the Owen Dolan murder/robbery. Last month I interviewed Major Imperial regarding this matter and I was informed that the one suspect is still in jail and that the other two suspects are still at large; in other words, nothing new to report! This remains a sore point with me and I wish there was more that I could do to put some type of pressure that would achieve results but I fear it is just one of those investigations that will be pushed further and further down the priority list. 

NO MAN'S LAND - STA. MARIA AREA

Last month I received a handout that was written by a resident of Sta. Maria detailing the deplorable teenage gang action late at night around Teodoro Street, Sta. Maria Village (the area near Norma's store used as a popular money exchange outlet during the day). It seems that since mid November through January, ex-pats have been attacked while walking home after the hours of 11 PM and this has become a bit of a no-mans land after dark. It seems that four gangs have made this their "turf" and in addition to fighting amongst themselves, have made foreigners their favorite target to harass and attack. This handout has been distributed about and given to the various police stations as well. I visited the PNP Commander of Police Station 4, Salakot, Major Imperial, and was informed that he was taking aggressive action to remedy this problem. The night before he sent patrols into that area and arrested 8 gang members, all of whom I was able to see occupying the holding cell while I was there. Continued police patrols to that area should make this area safe again and requests for more lighting will be submitted. This is a serious problem but one that affects those living in the area and not tourists as no hotel is located there. The quick action taken by Major Imperial is a positive step in the right direction. (Regretfully, since talking to Major Imperial, two more attacks on foreigners have been reported). 

POSSIBLE LIBEL CASE

A special newssheet, dated 5 Feb, from Manny Lamangan, organizer of frustrated291@hotmail.com that addresses comments written by Mr. McDougall, Hidden Vale (formerly Greenland's) is an interesting read. For those members that did not receive a copy, suggest you contact Mr. Lamangan at his E-mail address. The last two paragraphs are quoted: "Your Committee further advise that Atty. Larry T. Iguidez and John B. Martin are considering to individually file libel cases against Mc Dougal for alleged false allegation contained on his letter as of December 26, 2001. This is in addition to the filed case of John Martin against McDougal for his contained failure to settle his obligation under the Deed of Sale of G.S.R.I. assets.
Following the enlightening reply received from Atty. Larry T. Iguidez to Greg Mc Dougal's "Notice to Members", your Committee is inviting John Martin to also reply."

This Horse received over 900 copies of the booklet, "You Be the Judge - The true story of John B. Martin", most of which have been distributed throughout the community and even in Manila. The booklet was well received and I continue to receive requests for more copies. Alan Atkins did a good job of writing and somehow, I feel that the "story" is not completely over. The big question remains, "who was behind the set-up" and until that bit of information is revealed, the story is not complete. 

LAWN BOWLERS LONG FOR CONSIDERATION

Despite the construction and inconveniences associated with it, the Hidden Vale lawn bowlers continue to participate and support the Club. On a recent Sunday, 29 members showed up and spent an entire day rolling those funny balls and spending money on drink and food. Afterwards disappointment was expressed that management did not spring for a free drink or even a few snacks. In most bars in town, if 29 people showed up for drinks and food, for sure, management would provide a round of drinks. This is not the first time this has happened; if Greg McDougal is not physically present, no one is authorized to sign for a round of drinks. It is suggested that the Sports Director be given this authority as the cost to Greg would be minimal but as a public relations gesture it would reap many benefits. 

Word is out that the new name for Greenland's is not really settled; this Horse suggests "Hidden Vale International Sports Club". (Update - have been informed it will be named the Hidden Vale Sports Club - gosh, they left out the "International" - I'm disappointed).

GETTING WINGS 

Omni Aviation Corporation, Clark Field, Pampanga recently celebrated the completion of construction on their new hangar. Omni hosts a first class flying school offering both a private and commercial pilot course package. The private pilot course will cost you $3,134 and the commercial course (includes private pilot course) totals out to $10,520.50. If interested call them at 045 892-6664/599-5524, E-mail: info@omniavia.com and for further information their website is: http//www.omniavia.com. 

MOTORBIKE REPAIR SHOP

For a long time I owned an old beat up motorbike that was fairly reliable but did need frequent visits to the motorbike doctor to keep its internal organs from shutting down completely. Despite my loving care the old girl was rapidly losing its strength to the point that it would just quit running 3 to 5 times within a two-mile stretch. The only thing to do in such a situation is to present the bike, for free, to my Filipino brother-in-law who has much more patience than me. Three months later he still uses it, minus the silencer, motor covers, mirrors, flashers and must carry spare spark plugs, spark plug removal tool, and sandpaper; it continues to stop every mile or so. Through good luck I was able to obtain a brand new motorbike for a very good price and was very proud to have this fine mode of transportation at my disposal. Being new, everything worked on it and I found this strong urge to hit the road and pretend that I was a Mad Dog Cyclist. First, I had to wait for the registration to be completed in Manila so my riding was limited to the subdivision, never the less, while visiting the Bonanza Hotel, I found, at the corner, Nhel Domingo standing with my friend Willie in front of what appeared to be a very busy motorbike repair shop. Willie and a few others informed me that Nhel was the answer to every bike owner's problems as his shop was famous in the area for very reputable work at a reasonable price. It was too late for my old wreck of a bike but I knew that I found the best place to keep my new bike in good shape for many years. My joy was short lived though, for just a few short weeks later, my new dream bike was stolen from my carport, despite having the wheel locked in place and chained to my generator. The dirt bags stole the generators as well. This is a long story just to tell you about Nhel's Motorcycle and Scooter Repair Shop but even though I can't use the place, for all of you still in possession of your bikes, I just wanted you to know about this place. The extra benefit is that while you wait for repairs to be accomplished you can just walk a few meters down the road and have a cool drink or two at the Bonanza. I wonder if my brother in law will give me back my old bike that no one wants to steal, even if I left it outside on the street all night? 

Mr. Fixit in the Middle

GREAT VIEWING AT THE VFW

There are many reasons why the VFW, Pinatubo St., Clarkview is a popular place to go, i.e., fine dining, good bar, spacious, air-conditioning, generator, friendly staff but now add one more feature, Armed Forces Network TV via Satellite. This should be a popular drawing card for the many U.S. forces retirees in the area and its installation is appreciated. There is no finer facility for U.S. Veterans in town and is one of the reasons so many retirees enjoy living in this area.

JOEY THE CAR MAN

Need a good second hand car? See Joey Valentine, a fast-talking, super energetic young lad that is in the business of buying and selling cars. The horse recommends this lad as he can save you a lot of grief when looking for a car. Tell him what you want and the price range you can afford then let him do the looking for you. He requires 50% down and the remaining money on delivery of the car, with papers at the buyer's home. You can contact him via E-mail, skybustravel@angelfire.com, and cell phone: 0917-2536145 or check out his web page, www.geocities.com/skybustravel. 

Let's make a deal.

TAHITIAN QUEEN

Word on the street is that Horst (Champagne Group) has purchased Tahitian Queen with plans to take over the bar and build, in the back 15 hotel style rooms. Have also heard that Richard (Nero's/Blue Nile) has obtained the lease on Woody's bar but I still have to hunt down Richard to confirm this and to see what the future plans are for this location. Many people have asked me about the Galleon and all I can say is that the prime movers for this building have told me that their commitments are confirmed and, be patient, action may be seen later this year. I had the opportunity to walk through Ayers Rock (under construction) and my prediction is that this will be a very popular watering hole. I was extremely impressed and look forward to its opening when I can check out its second floor balcony looking out onto Fields Avenue (by the way, Shanno & crew will be moving from Cleopatra to Ayers Rock, and Bill, Las Vegas Club, will move over to manage Cleopatra). Another impressive building under construction is the Chic'N Ribs Tavern and Grill owned by Dan Guevarra. I will be looking forward to seeing this when completed but when I peeked in last week I was surprised at the quality of the workmanship and it appears that there will be a large banquet room that should get its fair share of business. Fields Ave is really going upscale with these new buildings. The only problem remaining, is parking and I see no solution to that. 

FUN DAYS AT THE SWAGMAN

The Swagman is presenting 6 fun filled days starting on 19 March that should appeal to a lot of folks. To start things off, on Tuesday, 19 Mar there will be a wet T-shirt contest starting at 11 AM. The Swagman folks originated this contest quite a few years ago so if experience counts, this should be a great event to attend. To add a bit more entertainment a bartenders contest will be held as well and that is always fun to watch. 

Lets see, there are chile cook-offs, curry cook-offs and now, on 20 March, starting at 11 AM there will be a Swagman's spaghetti cook-off. What's next, a stew cook-off? 

On Thursday, 21 Mar, get ready for a beauty contest and dinner. This time they will be searching for Miss Viva Mineral Water. The last time the Swagman had a beauty contest and dinner, it was well attended and made for a great evening. This is an event the whole family can enjoy, or just bring along your favorite girlfriend/boyfriend (trying to be politically correct here).

Sky channel racing on Saturday, 23 Mar starting at 10 AM and later in the day, a videoke singing contest (finals)

How bout winning a 25,000 pesos jackpot at the Bingo session to be held on Sunday, 24 Mar. This is a jackpot that MUST be won, so someone is going to be very happy that day. A large crowd is expected so be there early to get a seat for the 12:30 PM start. 

Who says there is nothing to do in Angeles City except chase the women? The Swagman is determined to provide a break from the usual Fields Ave routine and during their "fun week" there is something for everybody - see ya there!


NEW LOCATION FOR GOOD TIMES

This is just to give readers a heads up that Stacy will be moving Good Times Bar to the old Moon Doggies location next to Stampede. They will have a full blown outside patio style bar and also a bar inside, restaurant and Internet access. It will be open 24 hours and the ESTIMATED opening date is 15 Apr. While discussing the new place and possible names between Stacy, Dave (his partner) and myself, a named popped out that we all agreed on and I think it is a real clever one. Can't reveal it now, not until licenses have been approved. Later in March I will be able to take some pictures and give more details but it is something to look forward to. 

AN HONEST MOMENT

While dining at the Stampede, manager Jim came over to tell me about how proud he was of one of his waitresses, Ms. Edna Erras, 19 years old. One afternoon, an American customer and his fiancé were eating at the Stampede and the lady used the bathroom to wash up a bit prior to leaving. Two hours later a very worried couple returned to inform Jim that the fiancé had forgotten her ring on the sink after washing her hands. Not to worry, Edna had discovered the ring and turned it in to the cashier and it was there to be claimed by the owner two hours later. Edna received p1000 as a reward for her honesty and it just a nice story to pass on to the readers of this column. By the way, the Stampede has become a very popular place to eat. It is difficult to find a spare seat for breakfast and lunch. 

DELIcious

A few people have asked me to check out the Bistro New Europe Sandwich Bar @ Deli at #222 Fields Ave, next to Trend Travel, opposite the old Birds of Paradise and render an opinion. Recently I was able to drop in and try out one of their sandwiches and check out their surroundings. My opinion is that this is a nice addition to the area and the food is appealing, tasty and reasonable. It is German owned and the cleanliness of the establishment reflects this. It was comfortable and a most pleasant place to spend some time, especially on a hot day as the air-conditioning put out enough coolness to make one want to linger longer than necessary. It is a place that I would want to take a book or magazine with me to read as I sat and ate, watched TV and just relaxed. It is open from 1100 - 0300 hrs daily, hours that should appeal to weary bar hoppers. 

Beautifil and Clean Inside

Right next to Rick's Cafe

FOREIGN CYCLISTS - FAIR GAME!

There is a new traffic regulation implemented in Balibago called DWF or Driving While Foreigner; or at least it seems that way. This horse knows at least 5 foreigners who have been pulled over for various and sundry reasons ranging from improper registration to 'routing' check to riding without a helmet (a valid law). Take a recent arrival's story. He was stopped a few weeks ago for no particular reason. He had purchased a new motorbike a few days earlier. The 'enforcer' asked to see his papers. He showed the gentleman all the paperwork issued by the dealer to which the officer stated that the bike was not properly registered and would have to be impounded. In the Philippines it can take up to several weeks for all the paperwork and the proper license plate to be issued. The gentleman informed the officer of that well known fact to which the policeman then asked to see his driver's license which he produced. He was told that the license (an American driver's license) was no longer valid. The newbie called a friend who invited them both to his place of business. They all had a drink at which time the officer mentioned that he could get the newbie a driver's license for P1, 500 and they could forget about the improper registration. The new arrival took him up on the offer thinking all would be well.

Here's the irony. A couple of days ago, the same guy was returning from the Land Transportation Office where he went to pick up his new license. On the way back to Balibago, he was stopped by a policeman for another 'routine' inspection. It was found that his license was only valid for 4 wheel vehicles. He saw the paperwork that was submitted to the LTO and it clearly had category 1 and 2 checked. After a lot of 'discussion', the officer asked our friend to follow him to City Hall where he would try to explain the situation to his commander. Clearly, he was looking for some 'consideration' to forget the event. Newbie accompanied him to City Hall where, after 30 or so minutes, the officer informed him that there would be no ticket issued.

Here is the irony in all this. While they were on MacArthur highway discussing the original event, at least 4 Filipinos drove by without helmets. Two stopped to witness the event. When Newbie asked why the officer didn't give them a ticket for not wearing helmets, he replied "They are friends of mine." If you rent a motorbike in Angeles City make sure you have a driver's license and copies of all the registration papers. If you are visiting from abroad, get an International License. They are relatively easy to obtain and if the officer wants to confiscate it let him. Under no circumstances allow him to impound the motorbike. You may never see it again or worse if it is rented you will be charged to replace it.

MOTORBIKES/MOTORCYCLES - CHOICE OF THIEVES

Before it was car napping, now the thieves have decided that motorbikes are easier targets. Even this horse was a victim as the cowardly night stalkers that roam around between 0300-0400 were able to remove my new Chunlan motorbike and two generators from my carport last month. I was still waiting for the registration papers to arrive from Manila so I could ride it freely throughout town. After this theft, I found out that there is a syndicate specializing in two-wheeled theft. A customer at the Blue Boar Inn related how two motorcycles were removed from his premises and the police informed me that there has been a rash of "lifted" bikes recently. Naturally, informing the police accomplishes absolutely nothing except to get a written report for your file. They do not lift one finger to investigate, especially if a foreigner is involved. So, now I have to save up for another bike and after purchase will probably store it in my bedroom but then Priscilla may not like that. 

BAD KNEES - WHO CARES?

Ex-President Joseph Estrada continually cries about his knees and how badly he needs knee replacement surgery. It is good to know that this disgraced individual has to go through a bit of suffering but once again, he claims that he can only get proper treatment in the United States which is BULL! No one in the States cares about his knees and it would be regretful if the Embassy gives him a visa to travel to the States for treatment of an ailment that can be successfully treated in the Philippines. What would be sad if a visa is issued is that not too long ago the illustrious American Embassy official refused a visa to a child that needed life saving heart surgery in the States and only after much negative press in the local papers did officials change their minds. This individual should not be allowed to step foot in the United States until his trial for plunder has been settled and he is either incarcerated or set free. 

AIN'T IT A SHAME?

Last year I wrote about the new drainage system that was being constructed along Abad Santos Street and was to go up Fields Avenue all the way to Friendship. This project is extremely important if the flooding situation along Don Juico Ave and Fields is to be resolved. It is an P8M Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) funded project that is now stalled after being about 60 percent complete. Why this construction has stopped is a good example of why it is difficult to do business in this country. Stalls being built alongside some cell phone shops are illegal structures, as are the cell phone shops and are directly in the path of the drainage construction. According to the 21 Feb Sun Star newspaper, "Boy Sanggalang, city license and permits department head, said that his office has no records of permits having been issued to the shops since these are illegal for encroaching on public land. City hall sources said that officials couldn't demolish the shops because a city health office employee named Redem Tolentino owns these. Tolentino, they said, leases the shops at P5, 000 per month to each of the five store operators. Other sources said that Tolentino is a political leader of Councilor Lito Ganzon, appointed to initiate prosecution of cases against violators of Lazatin's drive against illegal structures and encroachments. Mayor Lazatin has ordered the demolition of shops encroaching public properties." My question is why is this Tolentino allowed to hold up a project important to the public at large? So what if he has political "juice" because of his connection to Councilor Ganzon. This only reinforces the belief that people in official political positions can break the law at will and why isn't the Mayor taking aggressive against these people? It will be interesting to see if the will of the people succeeds in this conflict or will it be business as usual in this "lets make a deal town".

Tear them down.

(Good news - on 28 Feb the Mayor took positive steps to have the controversial shops blocking construction torn down - well done Mr. Mayor)

LAY THE PIPES LADS, THE WAY IS NOW CLEAR

BIT OF A WORRY 

Just found out via the AC2 board that the manager of the Stinger bar has been arrested and deportation may be a result because of working without permit, running a front for prostitution, and other sundry charges. Too early to give any further details or what the repercussions may be but quite a few establishments in town are a bit concerned. If officials start this Mickey Mouse Gary will soon find himself with a lot of other company. 

CONCERNED ABOUT A FRIEND

Just received notice that Paul Dunn, a long time resident and owner of Dunn Inn, has been transferred to ICU at St. Lukes hospital in Manila with a lung bacterial infection. His condition has gone from stable to critical and can no longer breathe with out assistance. Doctor's are giving him a 50/50 chance over the next 24 hours. His wife Ludy and son Charlie, are at the hospital and can be contacted at 63-0918-561-5382 or 63-0918-704-1973. Paul is well known in town and is one of the good guys, all that know him are praying that this crusty, tough old Navy retiree will pull through this crisis. (28 Feb, 5 PM).

NOT VERY NICE

The Ospital Ng Angeles (ONA), located in Pampang, near the market is a Government hospital, proudly built to provide medical aid to the people of Angeles who cannot afford to seek care in more expensive hospitals. They are not supposed to turn away people who arrive for emergency care and do not have the funds immediately available to pay for their care. Recently, a five-year-old child was taken to the emergency room, suffering from amoeba dysentery and was near death from dehydration. The hospital refused to treat this child because the family did not have any money. This is a hospital built to accept charity and Medicare cases and it was cold blooded to turn this child away without any treatment. Fortunately, the parents had heard about the medical clinic located at the Street Children's Center (Bahay Ng Bata) established by the Clark Centennial Rotary Club and sought assistance there. Upon arrival the child was near death but after IV treatment and medication administered at the Clinic, full recovery was realized. There was no charge for this service that was given in the charitable spirit of helping the less fortunate. It is regrettable that the ONA was only interested in money, not the welfare of the citizens they are chartered to care for. Angeles City Mayor Lazatin is upset over this incident and has promised a full investigation. By the way, the free medical clinic operated by the Center is open to the residents of Barangay Cuayan daily from 1-4 PM with two volunteer doctors in attendance. More details about this clinic and a few pictures will be featured in this column next month. 

MC MO

Kokomo's Mo just hates to MC all those wet T-shirt contests. There he is, out there in the hot sun, fighting off hugs and kisses from the contestants hour after hour, his voice getting horse, his bald spot getting sunburned and his beard overheating but he sacrifices himself month after month to please the many customers that flock to his monthly wetness. Last month 61 ladies participated, one more than the previous contest but this time a first time entry won first place. Michelle from Rhapsody walked away with first place votes from the judges. Bars represented at this 4th year anniversary bash were Cottontails, Lollipop, Silk Stocking, Rhapsody, Angels, Wontok, Shadows, Treasure Island (had the second place winner), Blue Fox, Niftys, Cleopatra, Exotica, G-Spot and Club Rios. The event was well organized and only took 3 1/2 hours, a positive step in the right direction, time wise. 

We all fell sorry for him. :)

ORCHID INN

One of my favorite places to visit is the Orchid Inn as it keeps getting better and better and I enjoy the company of the owners Ron, Ron and Neal. Now I can add "Happy Chappy" to the list, as he is the new manager of the Flamingo Club. Neal was happy to report that the new safes have arrived and have been installed in the rooms. Every room has its own personal safe that the customer can program his own combination to while he is residing at the hotel. The Jasmine Wing offers free Internet access for each of its rooms with fast access provided by ComClark that provides an average download of 40-50 kb/s. I have no idea what that means and it is supposed to impress those folks knowledgeable of such things (New manager Marcus told me that). Neal told me that "we're here to make friends, not money" hence the friendly atmosphere, but I do believe making some money as well would not disappoint management. If you want to stay at the Orchid Inn you have to make reservations well in advance. If they are full, you can always try the Hotel La Casa (oh well, can't blame me for trying).

HARROW LEAVES BLUE K

One thing is for sure, you never know where or what Harrow will be doing next. We thought he had a good thing going by being part of the team running the Blue K, a successful Sports Club in a good location but as so often happens with partners something comes that requires a person to move on to a different endeavor. In this case, Harrow only moved a few doors down and opened a bar, with a pool table of course, named "HT GEES" that is open from 4 PM to 1 AM daily. It is too early to decide if the bar with a very strange name catches on or not as its close proximity to the Blue K could be a plus or a negative. Meanwhile Harrow has started his own Sunday pool league starting at 6 PM made up of many of the teams that originally belonged to the Sunday, limited rules, lets have fun league and a bit of business on a slow night. These teams broke away from a previous league run by Harrow a couple of years ago because of heavy handed methods so lets see how this one goes. Harrow has said that this time, no problems will be encountered and that it will be well managed. Lets hope so!

FACE OF THE MONTH

I tried to present my pick of the month using single ladies that do not work in the bars but all too often this was rather difficult as many I approached were too shy. I remember I had a hell of a time trying to feature one charming lady that worked in the Powder Keg but between the chosen lady being too shy and the cook not helping matters, I ended up giving up. But, the hell with it, I have decided to feature a lady this month I happen to meet at the Tropicana while she was punching the time clock to go to work. What a beauty, extremely good looking with a good figure as well. Her name is May, 18 years old, 5'5" tall, no boyfriend or husband and working as a dancer at Mistys. This is one lady that puts all the winners of various wet T-shirt contests to shame. This is one that if I was single and younger I would want to enjoy some company with but, of course, she can't compare with Priscilla the Horse (note that Priscilla does read this column). So, from now on, if I can't find a willing lady that does not work in a bar to appear in this column, I will seek out a lady that I think is worth a visit to the bar she works in. Since I cannot do any in-depth research in this area, I am hoping that anyone seeking out the lady I feature from a bar will give me a true rating of from 1 to 5 horseshoes. As far as looks and personality I have to give May a strong 4 but that is as far as I can go and the rest is up to you guys, help me out here!

What a doll.

CLUB RIO - CLASSY SLEEZE

It used to be "The Jolly Frogg" but is now renamed the "Club Rio" and is supposed to feature Latino music but as the manager, Dale, from Florida, USA pointed out, it is kind of difficult to keep the ladies on track as to their musical tastes. Despite that little drawback this is a fun little club to visit. I like the name as it reminds me of the Rio Hotel in Las Vegas where my sister always stays when visiting. It is next to Niftys bar, a place that already has a reputation as a "let it all hang out" fun place and "Shifty Nifty" Neville owns both bars. Neville is a bit low key but his ideas are right on and if you want to have some pleasant fun in the afternoons, stopping in at Niftys or Club Rio will entice you to make many return trips. What is the difference between the two clubs? When asked, Dale explained that Niftys specializes in "sleaze" but Club Rio specializes in "classy sleaze". Dammed if I know the difference but now I have to sacrifice my time to do some further in-depth studies on this most interesting subject - "to sleaze or not to sleaze, that is the question"? Operating hours of these two clubs are from 1 PM to Midnight daily, be sure to add this location to your bar hopping schedule.

Dancing at Club Rio

MELLOW SOUNDS AT MARTY'S

Located at the back of the Clarkton's swimming pool, where the gym used to be, is a very comfortable lounge, called "Marty's". It features a small combo for live music where guests can enjoy the experience of singing live with a combo backing them up and assisting them with harmonies and technique. Too shy to go on stage, no problem, just sing along in your seat by following the song and words on the strategically situated TV's. Marty is the Canadian host and he has been a professional singer and MC throughout many parts of the world with his latest gigs being in Hong Kong. Marty is a congenial host and the hostesses are attractive personable ladies willing to make you feel like the greatest singer in the Philippines. There appears to be a bit of confusion on the name of this club and its immediate future as it might move into Mirrors Lounge and that would be a better location for the type of entertainment Marty is trying to provide. Right now there are a few bumps in the road that have to be addressed but that is another story that I will be keeping close tabs on. Meanwhile, stop in and meet Marty, relax over a few drinks and try your hand at being the next Frank Sinatra, Matt Monroe, Tom Jones or Smokey Robinson, it is a fun, inexpensive way to enjoy an evening. Marty's is open from 6 PM to 2 AM daily.

The musical styling of Marty.

NEVER TOO OLD TO ROCK AND ROLL

It was about 12:30 AM as I popped into the Blue K to see what was going on and I saw this energetic, white haired lady dancing up a storm with the waitresses and having a jolly good time. I asked Louie Lewis who the lady was and he proudly told me "My Mum!"
Her name is Ruby, a young 67 and I had to take her picture for all to see, as it has to be a special feeling of joy for a son to be able to get his parent over here for a visit. It was a pleasure meeting you Ruby and I hope your son sends this to you over the miles to England. Come back and visit us again. 

February was a short month but we had a lot of cool evenings and a few days that were pleasant temperature wise and now March will see the start of the hot weather and a few more showers. Be advised that the "Knights of the Brown Ring" will meet at the Blue Boar Inn, Saturday, 2 March, at 12:30 PM. Priscilla fussed over me on my 64th birthday and I enjoyed every minute of it. Remember folks, Angeles City remains a safe place to visit but when roaming the streets please be kind to horses.

Louie's 2 favorite ladies.

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