FEBRUARY

Romance is in the air as we head into the month of February, one of those months that the men get to spend some extra money on flowers, candy, and dinner and hopefully receives in return an intimate time with his favorite lady.  For those fortunate enough to be living here in Angeles City or just visiting, romance is in the air 12 months out of the year and for a minimum amount of expenditure you can be assured that your efforts will be suitably rewarded. 

TIDBITS

The Sphinx Club after a number of ups and downs finally closed their doors and there is a "for sale" sign on the door but a reliable source told me that the rights can not be sold by the previous occupant, Bill.  One of those little birds flew by and told me that this building may not be unoccupied for too long as there is enough activity on Real Street to catch the interest of an investor (the "for sale" sign was taken down). 

Hotel owners were extremely upset last month when the distribution of the ACCTN Cable magazine was arbitrarily cut in half without any notice or discussion.  Previous agreement with the ACCTN management was that the hotels would receive one magazine for every room.  At the time Dennis Uy was out of town and I felt that maybe this was a decision not made at the highest level.  After making enquiries I was able to find out that I was correct, Dennis did not know the distribution had been cut and immediately reversed the decision to do so.  This positive response was appreciated but believe me, there is still a lot of unhappiness with the "boxes" that were forced on all subscribers. 

Maybe some year Dennis will find a way to eliminate the "box" so that we can use our VHS recorders without going through complicated connections to do so and even be able to use those TV's with the picture in picture feature again.

Want a good reason to visit Angel's bar and not because they had to find a new manager rather quickly?  I overheard the big boss telling folks that he had 13 new dancers starting last 23 Jan and that should be worth seeing. 

That English man about town, AC Hash House Harrier Jacko (Supot) enjoyed a visit from his lovely 19 year old daughter, Haley and a proud father spent some quality time showing her some of the sights of the Philippines.  This Horse was pleased that Jacko took the time to bring her by the stable to meet with me and I am happy to report that he blushed at least three times as I related a few tales about her Dad's prowess with the local ladies.  Like her Dad, she has a fine personality and great sense of humor.

Jacko & Haley

SEAIR Ticketing has moved to the Sub-Delicious building on Fields Ave. 

The Blue Nile girls have a new nickname. They're called the Western Union Dancers.

It's because in the afternoons there are bunches of the Blue Nile girls in the two Western Union Offices there on the corner of Fields at MacArthur picking up money from their admirers.  (Thanking Joe Stall for this input - yes Joe, it was humorous)

How many warnings must be given that if anyone is coming to this location to have contact with underage girls you are letting yourself in for a lot of trouble.  If an American is arrested in this country or any other foreign country you are subject to punishment in the American courts as well.  Case in point was a Mr. Schmidt who was charged in this town after being caught with two underage boys in his bed and had to face charges in Judge Pinto's court where he was able to make bail.  In spite of an Immigration hold on him he still managed to flee the country and then, true to form he was caught with two boys in Cambodia under the same circumstances.  He was turned over to U.S. Marshals & the FBI, taken straight to the U.S. where he will have the honor to be the first U.S. citizen to be prosecuted under the new law for offenses committed in foreign countries.  Just last week it was learned that a foreigner was arrested in Puerto Galera for sexual activities with an underage girl and the U.S. Customs personnel at the U.S. Embassy were making enquiries into the details.  At this time no further information is available to me but the handwriting on the wall is clear folks, stick to those ladies you KNOW are 18 and older (oops, applies to the boys as well). 

The annual Clark International Aerosports Festival will take place on Feb 6 to 8 but regrettably the hot-air balloons will not participate, because of the current economic situation.  There will be aero acrobatic and precision flying demonstrations, remote-control flying demonstrations, the ultralights, sky divers, kite flyers and many other events.  Of course, there will be many booths hawking food and drink, game booths, and vendor's booths.  Will it be hot and dusty, of course but there are lots of things to see, and do like the carnival rides, daily live concerts, fireworks, big bikes, Volkswagen shows, and military jeep exhibits.  If you are visiting during this period and you want a change from barhopping, by all means take the time to check out this Festival. 

The Philippine International Hospital (PIH) has announced its Blood Bank procedures.  When a patient needs a blood transfusion, PIH will coordinate obtaining the blood.  The VFW is preparing a list of available donors by blood type to provide to PIH.  Anyone desiring to add his or her name to that list please call our Patient Affairs Office, 625-6401, Ext 303.  When blood is needed, PIH will use the following sources.

1.  PIH blood bank,
2.  SBMC blood bank,
3. Other Pampanga blood banks,
4.  Local donors,
5.  Manila blood banks,
6.  Calls to Service Organizations for additional donors.  This is good news as last year a life could have been saved if a blood supply had been on hand at the PIH or a donor found in time. 

There will be a management change at the Orchid Inn at the end of Feb as the contract with the present management team, who were brought in to assure continuity of operations during a critical transition period last year, expires.  A woman manager will be arriving from the United States in a few weeks to assume management responsibilities and Shanno will be staying in his present position.  When the Haggerty/Bellemy team were brought in to troubleshoot a critical period of time brought about by the sudden departure of the previous manager they were able to prevent any disruption of service and institute changes to procedures that improved the operation, especially in the bar/restaurant which has seen a 70% gain in sales from when they initially took over.  The Hotel operation has remained steady with a near 100% occupancy rate to the delight of the owners and this fine hotel will continue to weather any and all obstacles that might be encountered in the future.  The new manager will be able to take over an operation that is rock steady and hopefully, stay with the Orchid Inn family for many years while maintaining a dedicated loyalty to the owners.  Meanwhile, Ron and Peter, having shown what they can do for a hotel have been offered similar contracts with two other hotels in town and have not decided which way to go at press time.  By the way, the Orchid Inn Corp. is planning to build condominiums in the near future.  Interested parties can contact Gina at the travel desk.

Last month I wrote that there was a chance that the "Club" might close its doors but this will not happen as it has been sold to another party who will take over shortly without any closure necessary.   Confetti's has been sold but I don't have any information on who the new owner is but I will be checking that out.  Are we into the season for changes?

The Angeles Immigration Field Office on 7^th street will not be moving to Clark, at least for now, but an employee did tell me that they need a bigger building and I agree with that.  While there for my annual registration as a permanent resident I asked about visa extensions as someone told me they no longer did them on site.  That is not true the only change is that instead of being able to issue the extension right away they have to wait until the afternoon when the "signer" arrives from Manila.  That means if you drop it off in the morning after paying your fee, you can pick it up in the afternoon up to 4:30 PM.  The fees are as follows:  First extension up to 38 days cost P2,020, the second cost P3,790 for two months.  You can extend for one year in two month increments but if you stay over 6 months each extension cost P1,820 but there is a one time additional charge of P1,410 but do not lose that receipt.  The office opens at 0900 and closes at 1630 hours but be aware of the long lunch hour from 1200 to 1330 hrs.  Many people go to Swagman Travel or Angeles International travel to use their service for visa extensions and this is a good way to go but for those of you wanting to do it yourself, the 7^th Street location is available.  I must admit, I liked the old system better when I did not have to make two trips to accomplish an extension but I suspect that this was the only way that officials in Manila could figure out how to keep the service on the up and up.  The staff is all female and it is nearly worth the visit to see the tall, attractive lady in the front that could qualify as a basketball player. 

Mo is at it again.  The upstairs area that the Business Center used to occupy has now been turned into an open bar area named "The Lollipop".  Mo likes to have the names of his old bars "born again".  It is a good place to sit, look out on Fields and catch a bit of a breeze once in a while.  Right now the ladies on hand are not that great to look at but what is interesting is that Mo, once again, is trying the ole Manila, Bangkok take out system;  pay the bar P200 and then negotiate with the lady for her fee.  Nothing like revving up the ole pro/con discussion groups on this policy.  Personally, I never liked that policy.

The Knights of the Brown Ring (AH Club) will meet at the Blue Boar Inn on 7 Feb, noon time. 

Chris Locher, the chef previously with the Clearwater Resort located on Clark is opening an Italian restaurant at the location housing the "C" Club on Perimeter Road (right next to Bubbles). 

Imagine catching a glimpse of a restored 1942 McArthur Ford GPW jeep that still has many of the original parts installed and also has the "F" stamps for Ford affixed.  I caught owner Joe Cheek showing it off to Don Don in front of the Hole in the Wall one afternoon and even though I know very little about vehicles I found this baby to be impressive.  I figured the readers would enjoy a couple of pictures but it was too early for me to get a couple of sexy ladies to pose with the vehicle.  Don Don was a poor substitute!

Joe & Don-Don	Mint condition

Michael Manthei, a visitor from Minneapolis, Minnesota was full of praise for Melissa who works for Beeline for the help she gave him in running down his luggage that Northwest Airlines lost.  Not only does Northwest have some of the oldest, ugliest Flight Attendants in the Airline Industry but they can't even keep track of a passenger's luggage.  I wonder, does anyone really get to use their North West frequent flyer miles for an upgrade or free flight from or to the Philippines?  Anyway, it took NWA three days to find Mike's luggage and then very nearly lost it again in the terminal when he went to pick it up.  They had it in the van ready to deliver it someplace, even though Mike had not provided them any delivery address.  By the way, Beeline is moving to the front of the building they now occupy which should give them a bit more visibility and easier access to the office. 

OWLS NEST

It used to be Club Fantastic but renamed "The Owls Nest" though "The Scoundrel's Nest" might have been more appropriate.  I could only get a picture of the outside as no amount of common sense conversations with Remy the Mamasan could convince her that a picture of one waitress and a very good looking dancer would definitely allow readers of this column to see that this is a nice place to pop in and have a drink.  Though, I must admit that on the night I was there I counted only four other customers in attendance even though the bar alone had seating capacity for more than fifty and then add in the table seating you can imagine how empty it looked.  Despite this the music was loud enough to wake the dead.  So why bother going into a place that shuns free publicity (possibly because the owner is hoping that law enforcement officials will forget about the place)?    The reason is that the place is roomy, has a pool table, and most importantly some very appealing dancers were on hand.  Add in the fact that the drinks are reasonably priced and that tasty snacks are served up, i.e., chicken "n" basket at P140 or fish if you like, and a few more items and you can have your food as well as some drinks.  I really liked the T-shirts the bar staff were wearing and I may go back and purchase one.  It is too bad though, that this club would not cooperate and appreciate that both this reporter, as well as John "Bee" would do them no harm by putting a few decent photos on the internet.  Remy, while talking with her, definitely gave me the impression she could care less if a customer entered the establishment or not.  Despite all this negativity, I certainly still suggest that this is a fine place to spend a few hours when out barhopping. 

No pictures allowed

LIQUOR BOX

Immediately after leaving the Owls nest in my disappointed state of mind I popped in to the Liquor Box during their Monday underwear night and I had my spirits lifted by a smiling staff that called the owner to inform him that "Harry the Horse" would like to take a few pictures and received the green light for me to do so.  Now that my spirits were lifted I was able to enjoy my job once again.  What did I think of Liquor Box after management took some time to freshen up the place?  Great!  It looks brighter, clean and SOME of the dancers looked great in their eye catching underwear (some outfits looked more like bathing suits).  I must be honest and say that not all of them looked all that great as there were a few that could not hide the rice bellies that sort of rolled over the waist bands of their panties and I do believe that it would help if a few more better looking women could be added on stage  The idea of such a night is appealing and I think as time goes on appearances will improve especially if the ladies purchase a few lingerie items that look a bit more enticing yet maintain the standards of decorum required by the local officials. I wish Kim had been in the bar so I could have gotten more cooperation out of the ladies for the photo shoot but what the hell, you get the idea of what is available.  The music was at a reasonable level, comfortable seating along the wall opposite the stage and the ladies seemed to be enjoying themselves.  Naturally I am partial to the smaller clubs that have to try harder to draw customers as the customer always seems to get a bit more personal attention than in the larger clubs.  The Liquor Box is one of those establishments putting out the effort that can only benefit anyone taking the time to drop in for a few drinks. 

Inspiring?	Not bad for 2 out of 4

HOT ENOUGH?

It was noticed in the Kokomo's restaurant that Mo has a display of hot sauces that can draw the interest of diners but Mo is not alone in this "Hot" display.  Zapata's Mexican restaurant has a few but the biggest collection is at the Blue Boar Inn (BBI) where 40 plus bottles of the hot stuff are on display with some very interesting titles.  The proprietor, Jimmy D, loves to collect hot sauces and the occasional visitor will deliver a bottle or two and on visits to the States JD tries to find new additions to his collection.   The hottest so far has been the "Endorphin Rush" but most of the collection has not been opened for tasting.

Kokomo's Collection	Blue Boar Inn's Collection

TOO GOOD TO PASS UP

At times there are posts on the various message boards that are exceptionally good and should be shared even beyond the confines of the message board.  This particular post from the "Lawman" (I have no idea who he is) qualifies and the many positive responses to it on the AC board attests to the writer's ability to present a subject that should be read by all those familiar with Angeles City, whether you are a newbie, old time visitor or a permanent resident.  There are a few areas that can be questioned and opposite view points presented but I will leave that up to the reader whose comments are more than welcome.     

In recent weeks a number of individuals have commented on the changes occurring in AC. Some of the post were little more than the routine "doom and gloom" (Angeles is dying) comments frequently appearing on this board.

The truth is: Angeles has changed and will continue to change. BUT Angeles is certainly not "dying." A wise man once said, "The only problem with progress is that it never stops."

I have lived in the Philippines for the better part of 40 years. I speak Tagalog fluently. I was present for most major events such as coups, martial law, earthquakes, rebellions, volcano eruptions and numerous other historical events. More on point, I was in Puerto Galera before there was a single bar, hotel or dive shop. I was in Ermita and Olongapo during their prime and on the day both closed. (Very sad days) I was in Angeles when the volcano erupted and the remaining Americans were evacuated. Wherefore, I am sure there are a number of other board members that recall these days that could easily confirm certain truths about Angeles City and what the future may hold for the girls, bar owners and, last but not least, the customers.

In the last eight years five (5) primary differences have occurred that have changed and will continue to change Angeles City and other Adult tourist areas in the Philippines. For purposes of this discussion I will compare two periods of time in AC. AC-Pre-2000 and AC-post 2000.

Here are the differences: (not in order of significance) Explanation and comments to follow.

1. Peso devaluation over last eight years.
2. Internet and cell phones.
3. Increase in total number of bars.
4. Average age of bar girls.
5. Emergence of the super clubs.

Peso devaluation: (Dollar vs. Peso rate stats from Yahoo! Historical currency rates)

This may be the single largest difference between pre-2000 AC and post 2000 AC.

In 1996 bar fines reached the p1000.00 level for the first time. However, the peso to dollar rate was 30:1. As of this writing the peso to dollar rate is p55.40 to $1.00 and bar fines are still p1000.00. (These same economics can be applied to ladies drinks, tips etc etc.) This is a nearly a 45% reduction in net income for bar owners, bar employees as well as the girls. What business, employee or bargirl can survive with a 40% reduction in 8 years with out raising prices or taking alternative steps to increase business and/or net profit? This is a no brainer! Customers get far more value for their dollar today than in the past! The negative affect is clearly upon the bar owners, employees and girls!
The devaluation of the peso means less money for locals and anyone doing business that must pay expenses in peso! Inflation soars! Prices increase, corruption and crime increase! Everyone is affected! Police turn to bribes and set-ups! Immigration officials increase their number of illegal arrest hoping for a big payoff. The girls increase their number of sneak outs and gimmicks to make up for lost revenue. It goes on and on! All the result of currency devaluation and inflation. Wages go down, prices go up!

Internet and Cell Phones

In AC-post 2000 the Internet and Cell phone are not just for fun. They have become necessary tools for the working girls. Most serious working girls spend a great deal of time collecting cell phone numbers of potential customers for day-time (even night-time) freelancing Their work at the bar is just a way to maintain their customer base. One well known AC bargirl told me last week that she will never work in the bar again. She is making two to three times more freelancing for half the work! Many of the girls communicate to 4 or 5 (for many girls it can 10 or 15) men daily via the internet. Many will send small amounts of money a few times. But if the girl keeps up the new customer base she can do quite well. Further, when she has a problem (frequently) she sends a plea for help to all of them and 2 or 3 will always send money! The games, gimmicks and hustle the girls can spin via the Internet and cell phones are simply amazing and the stories are endless. You can only imagine. This could have never been the case AC pre-2000. (More on freelancing later)

Increase in number of bars.

This is obvious! The good news is that the increase in the number of bars has kept prices from skyrocketing! Bar fines are the same in the super clubs as they are in the smallest perimeter road clubs! But there are other problems that have recently surfaced. For the first time, I have noticed a shortage of girls! Almost every bar has a sign out advertising for dancers. Even the super clubs are doing it! I don't believe this is life threatening but it appears to be a problem.

I would say that recent raids, arrest and harassment of certain club owners and managers also had an effect on the working girls. Many have decided to move to another bar, freelance or return to the province. A Mamason with girls is a commodity in AC-post 2000. This was never a problem before. Demand has now exceeded supply! I must declare that there are still a lot of girls available. But for the average bar owner who must maintain the number of girls to be successful they are finding it harder and harder to do! Whether this is a permanent trend due issues discussed above or a temporary market adjustment will only be known in time. Competition is good! It separates the serious players from the pretenders!

Average age of Bargirls

For most of us old school (old timers) that were regulars in Makati, Ermita, Puerto Galera and Angeles during the 1980's and early 90s it is obvious that the average age of the girls in the bars was "older." Most believe that current Angeles bar girls are on average 18 years old! (Many younger, despite the raids) I would wager that most of the dancers and other working girls in AC-pre-2000 averaged 21 years of age or older. Whatever the actual age difference the girls of AC-post 2000 are significantly younger. In fact one well known owner of a large club in AC recently told me that he could not name a single girl in his club (s) that was over 23. (Dancers only)

If this finding is true it would explain a number of common problems discussed daily on this forum. (i.e.; runners, early leavers, bad performers, constant texter's, bad English, bad hygiene, pay before v. after, condom v. no condom, unable to sustain a relationship etc etc.) I think most would agree that there is a very significant difference in the maturity level of an 18 year old versus a 21 year old. One of the most noticeable problems associated with difference in age is the number of girls that marry foreigners and depart for another country. This was far more common to see I years past than it is now! Frankly, I don't think the numbers even before were very high; Maybe 4 to 5%. Now, it's likely 1%. Promises are being made every night in AC and over the internet but very few are fulfilled. Some have been successful but those that haven't are far more numerous. There are a number of reasons these relationships end but I would say that most, in the end, are the result of a girl's immaturity and age related inabilities. The truth is: In the end most will never marry a foreigner and/or ever set foot in a foreign country. Sad but true!

The Super Clubs

In November 2000, Richard Agnew opened Nero's. This was the first of what are now known as the Super Clubs. The opening of Nero's changed everything! It was large, employed nearly 150 of gorgeous girls in three shifts. This number of girls and corresponding number of bar fines and ladies drinks were unprecedented. It was truly a sight to see. The expense to build Neros was recovered in 7 months! And despite recent problems it continues to be one of the better, more upscale clubs in Angeles.

In 2001 Richard and two other investors built Blue Nile! It would tuff to top the success of Neros but Blue Nile certain did! It is by far the most successful bar in AC today! It opens at 8:00 PM and is literally packed to "the rafters" most nights until it closes at 5:00 AM. The Egyptian theme, the number of dancers, the Mamson's and the management is hard to beat. Despite some local ex-pats who prefer the smaller bars, the super clubs have raised the standard and made it difficult for many of the other bars to even compete.

In the summer of 2003 Cambodia was completed. The Cambodian theme took a small unproductive bar (formerly Valentines) and made it successful. The design is not perfect. It has some problems due to the limited space in which the builders had to overcome. But, it is and will continue to be a profitable and fun bar.

In December of 2002 Blue Nile Executive Club opened. This was to be a small upscale membership club. But after opening the doors and it was just too good of a club to limit to membership. Most who paid for memberships didn't really mind when they saw the quality. This club was plush, rich and very upscale. The choreographed routines and the topless dancing on the tables was truly Law Vegas show quality and can only be described as "assaulting to the senses". Even for an old timer like my self this was a marvel of showmanship and presentation. In fact, the girls were not as pretty as those in Blue Nile or Neros but the action and presentation was so different and exciting. This bar will evolve and become even better as time goes on.

The word that best describes these bars is "chemistry." They just have that special "magic" that happens every night that cannot be fully described. Do not be mistaken! Simply leasing a large building, spending millions on renovation and design will not insure success. Several well know large expensive bars have come and gone in this past year. No magic, no quality or quantity of girls!

The Blue Nile group employee nearly 500 dancers alone not to mention hundreds of waitresses. Employee records show that this number is nearly 700 but not all dancers and waitresses show up every night. The need for new dancers and waitresses is constant and enormous. The number of girls needed for this group of bars is enough to staff 10 regular bars. Number and quality of girls is a major ingredient. But showmanship and presentation creates the chemistry which is the catalyst. The super clubs have clearly changed the "rules of the game" in AC. Gone forever are the days a man could build a bar for couple of grand, hire some dancers, hand out a few fliers and be successful.

The point here is that the super clubs have targeted the occasional visitor, not the local ex-pats. They are a volume dealer so to say. As such it is entirely possible (probable) that a man checking into Blue Nile Executive Hotel would never have to venture far away from lower fields Avenue. He will find everything he needs and wants right outside the front door of the hotel. And the most important point is that he can do so for the same price as the smaller bars. Hard to match! Hard to compete!

Some final words about the girls:

In the final analysis the girls are the reason most of us come here. They are the one ingredient that is collectively indispensable. The size of the club, the brand of beer, the music, hotels and restaurants are simply background albeit important background. Without the girls there would be no Angeles.

Financial circumstances have arisen in AC-post 2000 which has imposed great hardship upon the girls who work in the bars. As discussed above the devaluation of the peso has in effect, resulted in a 45% decrease in wages earned. This alone is reason enough to search for other creative ways to earn money. The Peso devaluation is not the only negative factor. Most AC bargirls could show you on paper why they are earning less but they certainly realize they are working harder for substantially less money.

The girls have realized (maybe for the first time) that working in the bar is not as profitable as it once was. Thus Sneaking out and freelancing have become a necessary act of survival. Further, most bars are aware of this and realize there is little they can do to stop it. Girls are no longer afraid of being fired. There are enough bars and other opportunities outside the bar that make the risk of getting caught worth it. One well known girl whom is frequently mentioned on this board told me recently that for every customer she gets in the bar, she gets two outside the bar. The Mamasons in the bars also feel this dilemma since they are commissioned on each bar fine. However, they realize as well that it is now a "girls" market. One Mamason told me that she will tolerate and not report "sneak outs" as she did before. She just can risk losing the girl to another bar or "freelancing." (Especially a good, productive girl)
Finally, freelancing is no longer limited to after midnight Margarita Station where you would generally find less than quality girls with very questionable health and hygiene habits. The pick-up disco is now the place for most upscale freelancers.

In conclusion, AC is alive and well! Changes will inevitably continue. But dollar for dollar (peso for peso) Angeles City will continue to be a thriving area for adult entertainment. Whether you are a local ex-pat on a pension or wealthy first time visitor, a 70 year old fat and bald punter or a handsome Romeo; Regardless of your preference whether you prefer the larger clubs or the small perimeter road bars there is and will continue to be something for everyone. No reason for doom and gloom!

MISS AUSTRALIA DAY

Once again the Angeles City RSL organized a great week of festivities to celebrate Australia Day and no doubt, the most popular event was the Miss Australia Day Pageant held at the Orchid Inn.  For only P500 attendees were treated to a fine dinner, entertainment and the sight of 19 beauties posing in their bathing suits and beautiful gowns.  Contestants representing the Orchid Inn, Camelot Club, Swagman Travel, Fiesta Garden Hotel, Chapter 46, Special Forces Assn, AC Businessmen's Club, Garfields Bar, Brown Sugar, RSL, Honey Ko's, Flaming Club and La Bamba drew lots of applause as they made their appearances and walk around the pool, heading to the stage to be greeted by MC, Peter O'Donnell.  I was able to get some early pictures but then my battery died and I had forgotten the spare at home.  Mrs, Priscilla the Horse, was one of the judges and did an excellent job but I must say that quite a few years ago, when I first met her she was modeling gowns for a local dress maker so she had a bit of experience.  First place winner was Jenny from Honey Ko's, 2^nd place went to Maricel, Fiesta Garden and 3^rd spot went to Lee from the Orchid Inn.  In a way it was fortunate that my battery died on me as a couple of days later I went to Honey Ko's to get a picture of the newly crowned Miss Australia Day and I think you would agree that she is a very attractive lady but looks alone did not carry the day, Jenny got high points for her poise and bearing as well as her figure and beauty.  Being a proud winner she displayed her trophy and crown at Honey Ko's for a few days and boss Damien was quite proud of her accomplishment.  If you folks missed this big event then try to arrange your schedule for next year as this week long RSL activity is worth seeing and the money raised goes to various charities in Angeles City.  NOTE:  I was able to get a much more interesting picture but did not want to display it here.  Drop me an Email if you would like to see more of Jenny, she definitely is a "winner".

Jenny	Contestants

I WOULD IF I COULD

Kokomo's can be a very interesting place to hang out to eat, play pool, drink and just watch charming ladies come and go.  Recently I happened to be there when a couple of mates of mine happen to be in the company of two lovely ladies while enjoying the amenities offered at Kokomo's.  Naturally I had to walk over to say hello and since I had my camera, decided to ask for a picture.  I was honest, I admitted that both of them qualified to be my "I would if I could ladies" for the month of Feb.  Sheila and Margie agreed and then jokingly, I suggested that Sheila display the wonderful assets that were poking through her sweater and to my surprise, she agreed.  The resulting picture was so interesting that I figured the readers of this column could enjoy the view as well.  OK, Sheila is the one with the bosom, 20 years old, works at Private Dancer (previously Illusions) and Margie, 19, works at Champagne bar and I can't think of two reasons better than this to visit those places. 

Sheila & Margie	Wouldn't you?

THE EAST COAST CLUB

The weather reports indicate that it is pretty cold on the East Coast of the United States but for a bunch of guys making up the East Coast Club they are enjoying enough heat to warm up New Jersey.  I met five happy lads just before they went into the Flamingo Bar at the Orchid Inn and took a picture but they told me that around 16 of them would be gathering for a bit of a feed and drink in a day or two and that they would take a group picture and forward it to me.  These guys are all from places like New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia and other locations throughout the East Coast but I can't remember all of them because I did not take any notes.  It is a great picture and I can guarantee you that there is no better place to escape a cold winter then in Angeles City - don't believe me?  Look at the smiles of contentment on all those faces! 

East Coast Gang

AMOR BAR AND GRILL

That hard working Amy, from Wet Seals Bar is working her butt off whipping her outdoor eatery on Fields Ave into shape with the help of a dedicated staff.  A menu loaded with selections to please any discriminating diner is offered and with operating hours from 1400 - 0200 early and late bar hoppers craving for a good feed can't go wrong by stopping in at this native style restaurant located halfway between Kokomo's and the Blue Nile.  Greeting you will be Riza and Ester who are both personable single ladies and Ester, especially, is a joy to talk to.  She is 27, single, from Cebu and that is an ideal age for you guys looking for a gal with a bit of maturity.  Amy is excited about this new venture of hers and Miguel's as she has plenty of plans for future improvements that will certainly draw in the customers.  Stop by and give it a try, I think you will like it and for sure your lady friends will appreciate the food offered.  If you go on a Monday you can take advantage of the buy one, take one on beer but I was trying to talk Amy in giving me the same deal on coke.  OK already, I am not a beer drinker because my bladder will keep me awake all night. 

Riza & Ester

LEGITIMATE MASSAGE

Many people have asked "where can I get a real massage" to ease my aches and pains.  Look no further than the "FootSpa" located to the left of the front entrance of the Angeles City Casino on McArthur Ave.  You enter the glass doors and climb the stairs to the second floor area where some really nice people will greet you and if a room is available you can enjoy a relaxing foot massage or a back/body massage.  There are 17 therapists on employed, each of whom have received two months of training in the Chinese foot reflexology, Swedish & Shiatsu techniques of body massage and kindly ask if you want the hard or soft technique.  I opted for the soft and was glad that I did and Priscilla the Horse thoroughly enjoyed her foot massage.  The prices are P465 pesos for one hour and everything about your session is professional.  Recommend you visit first, and then get their phone number for calling in a reservation.  Even though they are newly opened, reservations at night were necessary.

The Staff	Oh those aching feet

MEET THE TOURISTS

There were two father and son acts in town last month and every time I run into folks like this I wish that my father had introduced me to the Philippines when I was a youngster.  In this instance the first two I ran into were not all that young.  Bob (45) and Dick (74) Young are from Victorville, CA and Dick still loves to fly airplanes, so much so that he has a hangar just outside his house so he can pop in a plane and take off.  Bob was recently divorced (his comment was "thank God") and he felt that "every divorced guy and even those that are engaged should visit Angeles City which is the best place on earth for a bachelor party."  Their favorite eating places were Margarita Station, Blue Boar Inn and the Wanjai Thai restaurant in Villa Sol.

While visiting the Orchid Inn I met up with a rather large father and son team, Dale and Rick Sprinkle from Sacramento Calif.  Dale is a merchant marine who spends four months at sea and 8 months in Angeles City but first saw this area when his Uncle brought him here when he was 18 years old.  According to Dale, that visit put him off California ladies forever.  On this visit he brought his Dad along who was recently widowed and it only took a few days for Dad to be sold on the Philippines.  So much so that when I met them they had already cancelled their plane reservations back to the States and Dad did not care how long it would take them to get another flight.  Their favorite bar is La Bamba. 

Bob & Dick	Dale & Rick

LT TAN AND RUGBY KIDS

Will they survive?

In this instance when we refer to the "Rugby Kids", sadly, we are not talking about kids that toss, pass and run with a ball but instead, spend their days and nights sniffing rugby glue to get high. They play, eat and sleep in the streets and ages range from 8 to 18. There are too many of them that are not even in their teens and of course, lack parental control.  Recently, after receiving complaints from some concerned citizens Lt. Louie Tan rounded up a group of these kids that were working for some Lechon Manok (chicken) vendors on MacArthur Highway, near Fields Ave.  Lt., soon to be Captain Tan, rather than keep them in jail or turn them over to DSWD personnel has set up a place for them in back of the police station on Fields Ave where they are looked after during the day as they prepare Balut to sell at night in front of the station in order to raise some money for themselves to help pay for their food, clothes, etc.  Lt. Tan is speaking with those parents that can be located and is hoping that some will assume their responsibilities as parents and take their children in, while others, eventually, will be taken in by Social Welfare officials.  This is Lt. Tan's personal project and you can bet that it is not an easy one.  The reason I have taken the time to cover this endeavor is to show the plight of all too many kids in this area and to let you see a side of Lt.Tan that not many people who live in this town know.

REMEMBERING OWEN DOLAN

Many times, especially every time I pass the Phoenix I remember my old mate Owen Dolan who was brutally murdered a few years ago.  What always annoys me is that the bastards that did it have not been arrested nor is the investigation active.  But, that is what happens when a foreigner is murdered here.  I was surprised to receive this email message for his nephew and thought I would pass it on to any reader who knew Owen and believe me, he was a legend in his time.  Tony was right, I did not know that Owen had so many nephews and nieces and it is nice to know that they all still remember him and would like to hear from anybody that has some stories to tell. 

Gidday

Im owens nephew(i bet he didnt mention that, hes got about 10 of them and a few nieces to) and was shocked to hear of his murder in August. I just stumbled accross your

column and was wondering if you had any info, suspicions etc.  your feedback would be appreciated. Also Do you have any details for Randy as i would love to hear some

any stories or tidbits that i could pass on to his brothers and Sister. if anyone has any info please email me @ tdolan@questapartments.com.au . 

By the way your column is great .

Regards,

Tony Dolan

CYBERCARE, INC.  (This item is for the US Expat Retiree's Information.)

There have been rumors floating around that CyberCare, a local healthcare provider may be close to bankruptcy.  This came about last month when there were problems encountered by the death of Ralph Bridges who was undergoing treatment at Mt. Carmel Hospital, San Fernando under the health plan offered by CyberCare and upon the expiration of Ralph the hospital would not release their claim to the remains because CyberCare could not pay the bill.  This non-payment caused the burial of Bridges to be delayed and caused mental suffering for his wife and children.  The end result was a lot of negative publicity for CyberCare but according to Dr. Jose Quintos, Chief of Clinics, the idea that the Clinic is suffering financial problems is not true.  Yes, there were unfortunate circumstances that led to a royal screw-up but, according to Dr. Quintos, it was not completely the fault of CyberCare.  Specifics are as follows:

-          From June 22 to 26 Aug 03 Bridges was confined at St. Luke's Medical Center for treatment of, in layman's terms, a brain tumor, non-treatable.  His hospital bill came to P 941,608.00. 

-          Admitted to Mt. Carmel Hospital on 26 Aug.

-          Expired a Mt. Carmel on 17 Dec 03

-          19 Dec - Offered to pay hospital bill of Bridges ( 616,215.69) in Manager's check.  Mt. Carmel refused offer and wanted whole amount in cash.

-          Cyber Care offered to pay P 308,107.845 in cash (bank to bank transfer) with remaining amount after ten to eleven days.  Mt. Carmel refused offer and wanted whole amount in cash.

-          20 Dec 03 - Mt. Carmel informed Cyber Care that they will file the claim with TriCare - Cyber Care agreed.

-          22/23 Dec - Mt. Carmel retracted offer and wanted P308,107.845 in cash and the remaining half in managers check.  Dr. Quintos informed them that he would have to relay offer to Mr. Labayog in as much as the cash for the original offer that was denied had been earmarked for other clinic expenses.

-          29/30 Dec - Dr. Quinton informed Mt. Carmel that they can issue a manager's check for the full amount but it would be dated 9 Jan 94.  This is the date when a large portion of their funds will be available so as to ensure that check is properly funded.  Mt. Carmel refused the offer and informed Quintos that they will just file the claim with TriCare.

-          First week of January 04 - Quintos received a call from Alice Bridges informing him that a new problem had developed.  Funeraria Punzalan was charging Bridges family the amount of P 222,500.00 for funeral expenses.  Bridges family sought the help of Dir. Jim Boyd to resolve the problem.  Dir. Boyd informed Mt. Carmel to work for a reduction of funeral expenses and in return he will teach them how to file a claim for VA death benefits so that they may reimburse a portion of the expenses.  Mt. Carmel agreed but it was found later on that no reduction of expenses had taken place.

-          8 Jan 04 - Alice Bridges was instructed to get P 50,000.00 donation and to pay that amount to Mt. Carmel as partial settlement of funeral expenses.  Alice paid the P 50,000. to Mt. Carmel.  Mt. Carmel issued a receipt and instructed Alice to show receipt to Funeraria Punzalan.  Funeraria Punzalan informed her that they would have to pay another P 50,000 so Alice paid out of their own pocket and sought the help of Bob Zaher.  All the problems settled by 8:00 PM.

-          9 Jan - Charles Bridges finally laid to rest.

These details were provided to me by Dr. Quintos and it appears that Mt. Carmel, for some reason did not have any faith in Cyber Care checks and also could not make up their minds whether to submit their own claim to TriCare.  Why they would not take a bank manager's check is a mystery.  Additionally, the Punzalan funeral parlor (San Fernando) should never have been involved, instead, Indiongco (Angeles City) normally always handle arrangements for US veterans.  I have not been able to get to Mt. Carmel to find out why they made things so difficult but the main question right now is whether

Cyber Care has the finances necessary to operate their Clinic and pay medical expenses.  Dr. Quintos has told me in no uncertain terms that CyberCare is solvent and will be around for a very long time.  It is hoped that this type of delay in effecting burial of a veteran does not happen again and credit must be given to the VFW, particularly Bob Zaher, for the monumental effort he put forth in assisting the family of Ralph Bridges.