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SEPTEMBER 2003 Holy smokes, here it is Sept. already, the beginning of the countdown for Christmas and a reminder to start saving that money for the holidays. Any events taking place last month were overshadowed by the closures of Mistys and Neros Bars along with the detention of owner Richard Agnew. These actions brought tons of comments from various "experts" on the two main message boards maintained in this town, AC2 and Go2Phil. Of the two boards G2P seems to entertain a more polite, restrained, sensible approach to many issues whereby the AC2 board appears to attract the more unrestrained, "lets do some evil" posters. Both boards are entertaining and if you take the time to filter out the trash and the personal attacks on individuals there is much to be learned about what is happening in Angeles City. The arrest of Richard brought out tons of opinions, some that were way off base and some that were right on. There was a great deal of repetition of old opinions that have been discussed to death in the past, i.e., are bar owners responsible for minors being discovered working when they were hired based on documents issued by City authorities; are the bar owners being set up; are bar owners being extorted; is there a group of foreigners wanting to get Richard out of the picture and take over his bars; who reaps the benefits with the closure of these bars? There were comparisons to Thailand and even the Unites States, there were even debates on grammar as to whether one poster was lucid or not so needless to say there was certainly one hell of a lot of interest over this latest debacle on Fields Ave.
All well and good Mac, but nothing is free, you now owe me one coke and hamburger at the "Hole in the Wall".
For sure there have been many customers spending time at Club Lancelot that have not paid much attention to the mask hanging on the East wall, at least I did not. It was not until the manager pointed out its uniqueness to me that I became fascinated. If you walk past the mask and watch it you will see that the face and eyes follows your movements. Now I have to walk back and forth in front of it three or four times every time I go there and admire this original work of art created by Gerard's company. Check it out the next time you go there.
VOODOO BAR is on the market and may be sold by the time this is published, another reason for Mo's new construction, and yes, Robert Sullivan (Sullo) is making money, again, on renovations of the old Ayer's Rock (Not really that old) as it was sold and will be renamed.Word is that Mo is adding a small bar in the front of Kokomo's where the beauty parlor and business center were housed. The theme goes along with the current decor of bamboo and rattan. This might be a good idea that compliments the swimming pool, restaurant and recently added Motel rooms. .
It was all in the name of charity as Dennis Mitchell shed his locks at the recent fund raiser for street children held at the Roadhouse. This haircut raised P30, 000.
This was too good a photo opportunity to pass up as the well known, popular manager of the Phoenix hotel and his mate, known to one and all as "Pig" and "Piglet" was leading their pool team to victory at a local establishment. They have been mates for many years and take their nicknames with that typical Australian sense of humor.
Depicted here is a picture no one ever expected to see, a closed, darkened Nero's Club. Hopefully the lights will come on again in the near future.
Three familiar buildings are now being relegated to the historical files of those of us with long memories. The CARTOONS and MUSIC BOX buildings are being demolished and will become part of the Orchid Inn complex. Have not been able to get a fix as to what might replace them as word is that the owners have not come to a decision yet; various ideas are on the table but it all depends on the budget. The third edifice to disappear is what used to be the site for Lollipop bar. I have heard that Gerard will replace it with a three story building housing a billiards/snooker room on the ground floor and the remaining floors will house apartments. Too early to get confirmation on exactly will be happening but expect to be able to give more details next month. Another new construction of a multi storied building is ongoing just a few meters away from the Insomnia bar and the sign outside indicates that it will feature apartelles.
THE TINY BURGER
There is a small eatery adjacent to the One Stop and across the street from the Silver Bullet Bar that is simply known as the "Krystal Burger". It is run by Wild Bill, a well known expat that has kicked around this town for many years and at one time, before Pinatubo erupted, ran a popular bar/restaurant on Perimeter Road. Bill has come up with these miniaturized tasty Krystal Burgers that can be eaten with one bite, maybe two and if you are like Mark Smith, you eat them by the dozen. I restricted myself to one just to see what they are like and they are not fancy, not loaded down with any extras, just a simple tasty treat that kind of makes you want one more, well, two more, OK, may 11 more. Anyway, the price is right, CHEAP and it is fun to chat with some of the characters that seem to always be around discussing the problems of the world but not offering any solutions. If you would like to eat them in air-conditioned comfort and share with some sexy ladies, then order a dozen or so to go and go across the street for a few drinks at the Silver Bullet.
"Hello there .thank you for your kind words. Steven had been married to Evelyn
Some bars on Fields Ave just do not do as much business as others. It is a very competitive environment and sometimes there is just not enough business to go around. The Blue Nile is jumping with hundreds of ladies and elbow to elbow customers nearly every night of the week while up the road the Gecko might have only one customer sipping at a drink and having all the girls to himself. It would be hard for an owner to keep a happy face during these slow times but not Angelo, the owner/manager of Gecko's. He always has a ready smile for the customer and you can see, that when he is in town, he just enjoys himself, whether the bar is full or near empty. He admits that the bar is more a hobby for him as he does have other employment out of country but his good spirit is shared by the ladies that work for him and if the customer gets beyond the door and sits for a while, for sure a lot of fun can be had. The Blue Nile is big, crowded, with a lot to look at but at times it is nice to sit in a quieter place with room to move and receive a bit more personal attention from some attentive ladies. Who knows, maybe one can exit the Gecko with a smile of satisfaction bigger than Angelo's.
LIMITED EDITION
Jeff Duncan has opened the doors to the newest bar on Perimeter Road (Don Juico) named the "Limited Edition" and hopes that enough customers will discover this friendly place in the next few months to keep him in business. Right now I suspect that there will be some changes with the dancers presently employed for they are about average, meaning nothing too bad and nothing really great. Mamason Lolita has to keep her eye out for some new additions as time goes by but what the heck, most of the bars these days have a bit of a hard time chasing down the beauties as they all want to work in the bigger bars on Fields Ave. What attracts the ladies is the chance to earn money because there are a lot of customers and this may be what will draw them to this bar as first impressions indicate that this will be a popular gathering place. Jeff is a very experienced bar owner who is personable and knows how to draw the customers in. The air-conditioning provides excellent relief on hot days (every day) and there is plenty of room to with a good layout for the pool table. No doubt Jeff will be entering a team in the various pool leagues in town and will have no problems in recruiting players. There are enough bars along Perimeter Road to afford a whole afternoon and night of barhopping without having to hit Fields Ave at all and, for a tourist that could be an interesting change for one night of his visit here.
TEACHING ENGLISH?
CHAMPAGNE BAR
For some unknown reason it has taken me a long time to get around to visiting the Champagne bar and much to my surprise, found it to be a great little bar with some super ladies on hand to entertain the customers. The manager, Tony, from Melbourne Australia has his act together and runs a tight ship. There are three mamasans, Cely, Babie and Magda who watch over 40 to 50 ladies which makes for one hell of a line-up. One does not get bored as the line-up changes every five minutes which is more frequent than the Road House but run with the same idea of keeping the ladies fresh, rested, and ready to dance. On this particular night I was able to get three tasks taken care of by getting a good overall pictures of the dancers, finding my "I would if I could" lady and also the manager's choice. Cristina, from Samar, 20 years old and very available was my "would if I could" lady and Lin, 21, from Bicol was the manager's choice. Lin also has a sister, Wilmer, working there as well but she is much shyer than Lin. Oh yes, I also found Rochelle sitting with James, also from Melbourne that night also. With that much success in one establishment I call it an early night and went home, very pleased with myself. Hope you like the picks for this month. They are all waiting for you at the Champagne Bar, stop in and say hello to Tony.
LOOKING FOR WINE AND FOOD?
For those living here and even visitors can now avail of various imported food and wines along with other sundry imported items at the new "Europes Finest Food & Wine shop" on Fields Ave not far from Margarita Station. Bert, the Dutch owner has an outlet at Duty Free Subic and has now branched out to the provinces. This is his third shop in 9 months with the other two being in Subic and Baguio with plans to operate in Manila as well. The shop on Fields Ave is brightly lit and with an orderly, clean interior. The staff is friendly with supervisor Lilibeth running things along with Jasmin. This is one of those stores that folks find themselves going to just to see what new items are available, especially those hard to find imported foods. Bert plans to add more luxury items, i.e., goose liver pate which is a bit expensive for this horse's pocket at around $30 a can. I opted for the Thomy Scharfen Senf at P88 a tube.
A BIT OF CLASS
AMERICAN SHOT INAUGURATION OF PIH
On 16 Aug 03 the Philippine International Hospital (PIH) held their Inaugural Ceremony with honored guests Congressman Francis Nepomuceno and Governor of Pampanga Lito Lapid in attendance, Angeles City Mayor Carmelo Lazatin was a no show. It was held out doors and was a bit hot in the morning. The invitation called for formal wear but most of the Americans in attendance must have had trouble reading that part as they showed up in typical retiree wear. I was tempted to do the same but suffered in the
heat because I foolishly followed the instructions. It was a nice affair and it was a pleasure to witness the short speech rendered by the big boss, Mr. Dennis R. Thieke. Many asked where John Jones was but did not realize he was in attendance, wearing a disguise. The National Anthem was nervously sung by Miss Tuesday Basilio followed by the short speeches of the visiting dignitaries. Cocktails/fellowship/entertainment followed the conclusion of the formal part of the programme. Now that this beautifully constructed hospital is operational all we have to do is see how good the doctors in attendance are and that is the real test of how effective this facility will be. I will be giving it a hands on test when I submit myself to Dr. Tuazon's care for my abdominal hernia operation in the near future. I will be trying to take step by step pictures of my stay. Priscilla the horse has asked me when I will do this and my answer is, when I build up my nerve to do so. I HATE pain!
HIDDEN VALE
On Sunday, 17 Aug, Hidden Vale hosted a cocktail evening for Hidden Vale members where we were introduced to the new President, Philip Campbell and General Manager, Abraham George, both lads brought in by Greg McDougal from Hong Kong. Additionally, representatives from the new financial management team, JA Magno, project management team from W.D. Rancom Company headed by Engr. Wency Ramos were introduced. A power point presentation got underway after a delay while the staff tried to figure out how to get the computer working properly, fortunately Mark Cupid was on hand solve the problem for them. The plans presented for the future are quite exciting but the proof in the pudding will be when construction is actually started on the announced improvements. Many present have heard these words many times in the past and will only believe when they see the action started and actually completed. But, it all sounded great and the following are highlights of what is supposed to be forthcoming: Phase one will be from Oct 2003 to Mar 04 and will see the construction of a new 30 meter wide access road with entrances at both ends of the facility; construction of the main clubhouse building with a first and second floor, to include a members only dining hall; link a wing into the proposed third floor to be added and will contain hostel facilities for visiting athletes. Phase two (Jan-Dec 04) - a 10 pin bowling facility; lifestyle center with salon men/women, male/female lockers, therapy rooms; upgrade the swimming pool;
arcaded promenade; al fresco/fine dining restaurant; ice-cream parlor; founders club with waiting lounge, library, bar and music lounge (nice touch); conversion of driving range into a children's playground and water park. Phase three (Mar 04) - depending how the first two phases go a possible 240 units of condo hotels. Now that is a big plate of plans and anyone having any questions can contact GM Abraham George who will be available daily. My question to Mr. George was will our present dues structure be affected. He assured me it would remain the same, at least for the next two years. Naturally, if these plans are completed then the dues will start to rise, but at a reasonable 10% at a time when necessary. SEC approval is expected at any time now and it is recommended that those current members retain their memberships for non-members will be paying a premium price to use the facilities and new memberships will be a bit expensive. Now, lets sit back and see what actually happens. |
One TV station, GMA 7 was involved in all of this and featured a segment of its investigative show to it on Saturday, 16 Aug and, with certainty, I can say that it had its largest expat viewership ever that night. The TV footage featured Richard, views of his bars on Fields Ave, a couple of the mamasans (one of whom stupidly indicated that she did not know the owner of the bar), Richards detention and his words that "he was assured that he would not be hassled like this anymore" and that "he has 400 employees and is not personally aware of all of them" and that "he has 27 floor managers to handle the hiring". It was not a pleasant scene to watch as Richard Agnew is well liked in this area and many believed in his vision to create an upscale entertainment area on Fields Ave that would attract more tourists and improve the image of Fields. On two previous occasions Richard had been "invited" to Manila and both trips proved to be a bit expensive for him hence the meaning behind his words that he would not be hassled again. Lost in all this publicity was that the Stinger Bar was closed down as well, with much less fanfare but for the same reason, underage ladies employed. A source has indicated that a deportation letter may be drafted by City Officials against Gary Stone for being an undesirable alien (as of this writing no such action has been taken). This is the same Gary Stone that enjoyed the hospitality of an immigration facility in Manila for nine months last year. So, we have two "victims" and the question remains "who is next?" It is my guess that any investors considering opportunities on Fields Ave are giving these latest incidents a lot of thought. 
since 1997 and they had two lovely children, Jessica now 4 and Joshua now 2 years. When Steven died we were determined to get the children to the UK and find out what happened. I managed both and the children are here with us in the UK.
leg and abdomen. He was taken to the Mabalacat General Hospital but they were not very proficient in handling such an incident. The Philippine International Hospital (PIH) was contacted and an ambulance was sent to pick him up but the Mabalacat hospital found transportation to send Richard to PIH and the two vehicles passed each other on the road. By the time Richard reached PIH he had already lost considerable blood as a main arterery had been cut; he was rushed to the operating room as frantic calls were placed to all hospitals in the area trying to locate O neg. blood but none was available. Various military organizations in town were contacted to try and locate donors but, regretfully, time ran out for Richard. A PIH official stated that "if blood had been available, a life could have been saved". Richards instincts dictated that he chase the robbers and no doubt, he reacted without thinking, as many folks are prone to do but as each years passes more and more Filipinos carry guns and are not hesitant to use them in the course of their illegal activities. It is easy to say "do not respond" but when confronted and anger takes over, there is no time for logic to take effect but being passive may be the best way to stay alive. The lack of a blood supply is a serious concern and an effort is underway now to organize, through the assistance of Angeles University Hospital a blood drive to build up a supply of this vital fluid to be stored at AUF. Mark Smith has contacted AUF's Doctor Canlas to assist in setting up a day that Expat volunteers can donate blood at the Pick-Up bar on Real Street, possibly on a Saturday morning. This writer is contacting the various military organizations in the area to seek their assistance in accomplishing this. A date has not been set yet but it will be sometime in September and we are hoping for a large turn-out. The project will be called "Save a Life Today (SALT)" as if possible, we do not want to see another foreigner bleed to death on an operating table because blood was not available. A suggestion - O neg. is very rare and anyone living in Angeles City that has this type blood might think of donating every few months in order to assure a personal supply for himself if necessary. Another action taking place now is that the Subic Bay Medical Center has a central Health Visions Blood Bank and has agreed to keep a stock at the Angeles PIH to handle emergencies. It is too late for Richard but with this wake-up call, maybe another life can be saved in the future. 
Whew, I am one tired horse. Why do I always finish up writing at 0200 hrs when I should be sleeping? It is just that once I start, I hate to stop and I know that Tom (Duck) is waiting for my input. As of 1 Sept Richard Agnew is still in detention in Manila but there are rumors that a "deal" is in the works. Yes, the rumors continue but if I am apprised of any FACTS in time to add them prior to publication, I will do so. I sincerely hope that all goes well for Richard, he is one of the good guys! My apologies to Ted Lerner, I did not get to go to his book launching because of the bad weather, it was raining too damn hard and I did not want to get wet walking from wherever I would have had to park. I'm outta here, oh yeah, don't forget to be kind to horses! |