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NOVEMBER 2004 For the Yanks it is turkey time this month while families gather to give thanks for whatever. Me, I'll give thanks to be back in the Philippines and enjoying the good life once again. Though I enjoy my visits to Las Vegas once a year my heart is where my home is, and that is Angeles City. I did not fly Northwest Airlines this time so no pictures of ugly, old, overweight female flight attendants. I gave Eva a try, opting for the economy deluxe seat and I must say it was very comfortable, more room, food better and TV/radio selection quite good. The one drawback was the layovers, 3 hours in Taiwan and a couple of hours in Los Angeles but going back I got to LA five hours before my scheduled flight. It was not that bad though as I always enjoy checking out the shops at the terminal and just taking my time getting to the gate. For some reason, I have found it harder to get back to my normal routine even to the point that I have not gotten out as often as before in researching material for this column. Maybe a bit of tiredness is creeping into my body. Priscilla the Horse celebrated her 50th birthday last month and I hope to be able to insert at least one picture of her. We had a great party at the Marlim Mansion Hotel Function Room and must thank the great professionalism shown by the staff there, especially manager Joey Muster. It is very seldom that I see any references to the Marlim Mansion Hotel on the various message boards but its location is not that far away from Fields Ave and it is a classy hotel with a long history. By the way, as I write this I am anxious to watch the 7th game of the World Series in the morning - Being a Yankee fan I will end this introduction with a "oh shit" or a "well done Yankees!" Stand by for a --------- "OH SHIT!"
It was a big disappointment to see owner Porntip close the doors to her wonderful restaurant as she decided to rent out the establishment to a couple of people that wanted to run a Karaoke bar. The location did not seem conducive to such an endeavor but Porntip wanted a break and these lads put up the three months rent in advance. Recently I spoke to Porntip and she gave me the good news that the Karaoke idea flopped and the folks who ended up not being able to pay the rent decided to bail out and now, sometime in late November or early December Porntip will reopen her Thai Restaurant. Priscilla and I hope to be her first customers at the reopening and therefore can share the good news with the readers of this column.
FRIENDSHIP BRIDGE I thought by this time I could report that the new Friendship Bridge would be operational or at the very least, very close to being completed. Regretfully, it is sitting dead in the water and motorists continue to be forced to traverse a very unstable one way at a time temporary bridge. I have been assured that the bridge is unstable only if there is a heavy rain for two or more hours so if we can make it out of the rainy and typhoon season crossing should be a piece of cake until the rains start again in June. Personally, I still feel safer taking the longer route over the Hensonville bridge. Why has construction been stopped? I asked this question of Mayor Lazatin and was told that the Department of Public Works (DPWH) had not paid their share of the construction costs. This construction is a joint effort by various agencies (City, CDC, BCDA, DPWH) that have pledged funds and without complete cooperation in payment of shares the project is held up. I keep checking up on the status of the construction but can not get any idea of when this very inportant project will get under way again. Whatever the reason, construction is at a stand still and that is a damn shame. The ACTA committee is beginning to make itself known to all the businessmen on Fields Ave as various projects begin to take shape as the name has been approved and the required paperwork for SEC approval is being prepared and will be submitted through proper channels by Attorney Willie Rivera. Before I left for the States a massive clean-up effort in cooperation with the City took place and quite a few unsightly areas were cleaned up. Starting on 25 Oct the paving of Real Street will begin and should be completed within one week. This is being done through private donations from various businesses on Fields Ave. To begin with, the Mayor himself donated P200,000 out of his pocket and the following establishments dipped into their coffers as follows:
And it is hoped that Black Jacks and Central Park Hotel will come through with a share as well as a further P30,000 is required to cover all costs. Without wasting any time the ACTA has authorized the surveying of Santos Street as well to begin shortly after the completion of Real Street. Folks, this is really a very concerted effort on the part of ACTA and the City (Mayor's Office) to work together to improve Fields Ave so that more tourists will want to come here and to feel safe and secure as well. This is just the beginning, many more plans are being made and eventually all businesses on Fields Ave, from the Checkpoint to McArthur Hi-way will be on board. We have lost the Police Kaban on Fields Ave due to the clearing operation there but, at the request of the ACTA, the Mayor has approved a temporary site on Real Street for a police presence. Recently the Office of the City Engineer sent out notices to all establishments on Fields Ave that the City Government is now reclaiming what is its own which were encroached by private interests, "for the safety, and general well-being of the greater many". Basically what that means is that the City is reclaiming sidewalks along the entire length of Fields Ave. Private temporary or permanent structures such as buildings, houses, shanties, stores, shops, stalls, sheds, pots, canopies, billboards, signages, advertisements, fences, walls, railings basketball courts, garbage receptacles, or the like will be removed. This is something that has been needed for many years and is another example of the drive to make this Angeles City entertainment area more presentable. This will also be applicable to the main street in Mountain View with the objective of improving traffic flow in that area. There are many more plans in the mixing pot but events must be taken a step at a time. As more definite actions come about I will keep the readers of this comumn up to date. THE CHANGING FACE OF BAYANIHAN PARK
Not much to say here as the pictures will tell the story. The park is under transformation and it is interesting to see how rapidly progress is being made. The Station 4 Police Station has been moved to the old USAF Pass and ID office at the main gate and the widening of first street is nearly finished. News reports have indicated that this area of the park will be transformed into a first class park that will attract families and tourists. On the Fields Ave side of the Park the cememt stalls are being erected along the entire length of the Park. These stalls will be occupied by the businesses that were moved for the demolition of the illegal structures that existed for many years. It is hard to say right now whether the new area will reduce congestion on Fields Ave or make it worse. One must realize that this is all part of the overall plan to construct a ShoeMart Mall (SM) on base despite all the continuing opposition to it. The argument is that all the small businesses in Balibago, and Dau will suffer losses and go out of business. Gosh, just think, maybe now the small businesses that once enjoyed very little competition must now compete and try to figure out how to keep all those customers they have been taking advantage of for so many years. Even Johnny's supermarket is taking pains to brighten up the store, widen the aisles a bit and use a bit more airconditioning. I thought that Ron Wakely and company were kidding me when they showed me the drawings for the new hotel they were building on Santos Street and told me the name was "The Wild Orchid Resort". Instead they were dead serious and told me that it reflects the location, just towards the end of the entertainment area on Abad Santos Street. This is the hotel that was started by a Korean and then abandoned when he ran out of money but recently taken over by the Orchid Inn Hotel owners. If the drawings of the lobby are a good indicator then I can tell you that this will be one fantastic, upscale hotel. Without any doubt, I predict that when this hotel opens, in March 05, that it will be fully booked in no time at all. It will cover 3,700 sq. mtrs., feature large conference rooms, a large swimming pool with a large size jacuzzi or to quote Ron Wakely, it will be a very nice boutique hotel. With the years of hotel experience Ron and company have between them you can expect a first class hotel to rise on this site. It certainly will be the beginning of an image change for Abad Santos Street. THE ROYAL AMSTERDAM HOTEL Mark Smith and company ran into a problem with neighbors on either side of the hotel that complained about the windows on the sides of the hotel. It seems that there is an ordinance against windows that when opened protrude a bit onto the property line of adjoining properties. Anyway, some folks complained and the windows had to be cemented over. One learns something new every day, in no way would I have thought of that one. First they had the elevator fiasco and now, windows but Mark is able to overcome all obstacles, regardless of how frustrating, and work is continuing around the clock. Look for an opening prior to the holidays.
Greenlands Sports Resort, oops, Hidden Vale Sports Resort, oops again, I mean Greenlands Sports Resort, eh, I think that is it for now, it is all rather confusing as the continuing story of Greg McDougal's fantasy continues. Not too long ago Greg told us that all is fine with the SEC and Hidden Vale came up with a great plan allowing the old GSR members to remain in good standing. All we had to do was pay P3,000 each and then no monthly dues would be charged. OK, many jumped on the bandwagon, including this Horse and hoped that all would be well. Of course this was after mangagement change three in less than a year. Well I bounced off to the States and when I returned three weeks later I found that, like magic, the name was unofficially changed back to Greenlands Sports Resort and effective 1 Oct a P500 monthly fee would be charged. Of course, no official bill was sent out, only a letter from the pliable marketing office under the command of dear old Josephine Marfa. This time, once again there are new guys on the block that are going to work all sorts of magic and supposedly, the good news is that Greg now has nothing to do with GSR. Somehow I don't believe this but I have heard that he is in Australia and undergoing medical treatment. The new owners are Eric Abellera (President) and Dinisio Dungca (Vice President) who have been long term members of Hidden Vale since 2000 which is not all that long term to me and many others who have been members for quite some time longer than that. So, here we go again, new mob in charge, new ideas, new promises, new dues and what the hell can we expect next? Many of the old staff were let go including Lolly (Lollipop) and others but the propaganda minister, Josie Marfa remains, thank goodness, for she can spin stories with the best of them and look so happy doing so. She has the ability to take a disgruntled member who thinks that he is being screwed and turn him out of the office more confused than ever, but somehow, still optimistic that something good is going to come out of all this shit. George Brown, an original founding member who has been through the shit from start to finish (two memberships) is quoted as saying "he is firmly convinced that the P3,000 fee recently charged for memberships was nothing more than a scam to get money to pay the staff". Well, Ms Marfa wrote to tell me that the staff was not paid from this P3,000 and that they were only paid after the new owners came aboard and "rescued them". It was also related that if things improve, for sure dues will go up again. I guess so far, the only people that are happy are the folks running the bank of Gua-Gua. So, what can be expected now? Damned if I know, it is like playing craps in a casino, one never knows what the dice will roll but usually the customer is screwed in the end. With Greg out, (if that is true) maybe there is a chance for a lucky roll of the dice. I have always been a supporter of PIH and for that matter, Cyber Care as well as I think we have excellent access to medical care through these two facilities, whether one is a US Military Retiree or a civilian. But, of course, nothing is perfect and there are many who do not hesitate to complain about PIH and their high costs. It is expensive, compared to other Provincial facilities and those of us that have been fortunate to be able to use TRICARE for our insurance have been lucky for many years now. I wonder though, whether this service is about to end. The first indication is the message passed on by the PIH administrator that may be the harbinger of further bad news. Rosie, owner of Cyber Care has been suffering delayed reimbursements for over a year now but somehow has managed to continue his service to the retiree community, but I know it has not been easy. Let us see what happens in two month's time. I guess that the suspension of "routine" surgeries means that I can forget my knee replacement surgery but no problem, the VA can pay for that next year. Regretfully, I guess this means that my suggestion that PIH upgrade their MRI machine to a high resolution system will fall on deaf ears. When I went to Las Vegas with my MRI pictures and sought a second opinion, the specialist was not happy with the poor quality of the pictures obtained from PIH. He had me go through the whole procedure with a high resolution machine that took one quarter of the time it took for PIH to take the same pictures. The good news was that it was found that I did not have a tumor in my pituitary gland as indicated by the PIH doctors. So, the worry I had since Feb was erased by the doctor in Las Vegas, thanks to an upgraded MRI procedure. When I told him I was going to complain to the PIH medical staff for making a mistake he told me not to do so, for I did have a tumor but it cured itself. I am still trying to figure that one out, like did I experience a miracle? The memo from PIH follows: "PIH has instituted some cost control measures due to delayed reimbursements by TRICARE. We don’t know the reason why, but TRICARE is several months in arrears with reimbursements for past services, medication, etc. The consequences are that we must minimize the items we purchase until such time that the payments for past treatment catch up. KEITH GRAY FUND RAISER Last month I wrote that there would be a Keith Gray fund raiser at the Winchester on 13 Oct in order to raise funds that would offset expenses of Keith's family and to also be able to arrange for their travel to Australia to be at Keith's side. Keith was taken ill here in the Philippines and evacuated to Australia where his condition remains quite serious. As in many cases like this his family was stranded here and quite unexpectedly Keith could no longer be the breadwinner of the family. Again, concerned expats in this town took up the challenge to help out a popular mate to one and all and were able to raise P600,510 at a well attended evening at the Winchester. Much credit goes to the outstanding committee, members of which were listed in my Oct column but now the committee would like to thank all the sponsors of prizes in the raffle, auction prizes and the many people who donated money at the event. Bear with me now as I have been requested to list the results of the Auction: Pool clock donated by Winchester Club P3,000 Coonawarra Estate red wine donated by Robin Girle 5,000 South Sydney Rubby shirt donated by PANDA 4,500 Model Aircraft donated by Hank Morrison 10,500 2 nights at Blue Rock by Tommo 3,000 Lonhro Cap by Laurie Farrell 4,000 3 nights at Bali Hai beach resort by Bill Forgen 4,200 Callaway Golf Clubs by Winchester Bill 42,000 Myster Cruise on Thor Viking by Rod Hegarth 5,000 Trip to Thailand staying at Eden Hotel by Winchester Bill and Ray Kelly 36,000 The raffle sponsors were: Andy and John's Boat Charter Subic, The Getaway Resort Subic, Arizona International Hotel Subic, Southern Palms Resort La Union, PK Sports at Flamingo, Fiesta Garden Hotel, The phoenix Hotel, Home Base Pie Shop, Bretto's, The Butterfly Rock, Private Dancer, Club Stampede, Winchester Bill and SEAIR. Special thanks to Kokomo's, Roys Pub, PizzaZone and Dominoes for putting on the free snacks that night. Folks this was one hell of an effort and a lot of fun was had by everyone who attended. The Winchester dancers were a sight to behold and kept everyone entertained, the booze flowed freely, it was like a large family reunion. All in all a very successful evening and we wish Keith all the best for him and his family's future. TOLL ROAD INCREASES Travelers to Manila seeking transportation to Angeles City can expect dramatic increases in fares as the toll fees at the North Luzon Expressway will be four times more expensive once its repairs will have been completed before the end of the year. Where now a regular vehicle driver will pay a P41 toll to Balitantawak, Quezon City he can expect to be paying P200. Busses and heavy trucks will pay much more. Now you better believe there has been a great outcry from the public and various NGO's as well as some governmental agencies. Investigations are being started and calls for injunctions against such high increases are being demanded. Well, what else is new in the Philippines, shades of Expo, shades of PIATCO, shades of so many occasions where the government tries to extricate itself from something that was agreed to a long time ago. I have been advised by an informed source that the fare increases were known and approved years ago, when the project was bidded on by the Lopez-owned Manila North Tollways Corporation as was necessary to get the various loans from Japan and the French. What most folks don't know is that the French loan was given only after it was agreed that the software required to modernize the toll road system would be purchased from the French Government. Naturally the French imported the required equipment from another country at a much lower cost than what they are charging the Philippine Government. Anyway, the bottom line is that the rates to be charged at the completion of the repairs and modernization have been already been agreed to and no amount of protests at this stage of the game will change that. One can expect much higher traffic volume on the old McArthur route to Manila and widening of that road is already in progress. So, the traveler can expect the Airport pick-up fee to increase from 900-1,000 pesos to around P1,500, maybe a bit less. You can blame in on the French, who really are not to blame, but it is fun to pick on the French and much safer than getting the Filipinos pissed off. NOTE: Kokomo's Mo has reported that it only takes him around 40 minutes to traverse the toll road now, where before it took at least one hour. INVESTIGATION REQUIRED Calling up all Harry the Horse volunteer investigators. Your mission is to check out the Owl's Nest, take out one of the lovely dancers and then try to find out if there is any truth in the following statement lifted from a local message board: "I BF'd a girl from the Owls Nest. This bar has a lot of fatty waitresses but great looking dancers without an ounce of fat on them. But that was a few weeks ago and the bar has a real big turnover or firls. No papasan or manager. It's run like a concentration camp solely by feminazis. My BF told me that the girls have to go to the stay in right after work unless they're on EWR. They can't even leave to eat during the day though it costs a lot less outside. Its hotter than hell in the stay in, she said they get no days off, and they hold back pay, which is less than anywhere else except maybe a Filipino bar. Soon as the girls can do it they walk away, minus some of the money due them but they just want out." That sounds a bit unusual to me as most of the establishments on Fields Ave treat the ladies pretty good but I can confirm that the Owls Nest is run by some ladies that are a bit strict but beyond that I have no idea. I cannot go for an EWR to get a good interview in a neutral area (Priscilla the Horse would not buy my strictly business excuse) so maybe some of you could accept this assignment, quiz the lady and let me know if the above comment has any merit to it. It could be that the individual this guy took out could have been laying the ground work for a big tip. I wish I could do some "in-depth" research on this but reluctantly will leave it up to some other willing volunteer. Be advised that Harry the Horse will not reimburse any expenses used in this research! TOURIST OF THE MONTH
THE GIRLS THAT YELLED WOLF
The "Wolf" has left the pack and is determined to take life a bit easier. Wolfe Fenschel, after many years of hard work has left Private Dancer, formerly Illusions, and his presence will be missed by the many customers how have come to know him. Naturally, Private Dancer will continue to operate without missing a beat but somehow, now, it just won't be the same without that thin, droopy eyed character with a shit eating grin sitting at his favorite location at the bar. Good luck Wolfe, keep in touch with all your mates. WORDS FROM IRAQ Many of us in Angeles City have known Dave Donney for many years and have heard him relate many stories about his various experiences as he worked in different parts of the world. Now, he is in Iraq and and is regaling us with his latest exploits in that part of the world that one one really wants to be at as a civilian, except for the lure of the money to be made. Anyway, old Dave has become quite a correspondent as he regales us with stories about the weather, trips to the BX, air-conditioned quarters and the good food he is consuming. I am saving his e-mails because they are fun to read and also, to keep them in case one of them becomes his last words to us. I certainly hope that he does not become the latest TV reality star as some asswipe cowardly Muslim fanatic chops off his head. If they do, it will take at least two hours before they get that head to stop cussing them out. Regretfully, I have been told that the folks there block out receipt of this column but anyone wanting to correspond with with Dave can send him an e-mail at daviddonney@yahoo.com.au. Good luck Dave, save up lots of money so you can come back to AC and buy us all a drink. I WOULD IF I COULD
SWAGMAN WET T-SHIRT CONTEST Happy days are back again as the Swagman was able to obtain a permit for their yearly October Wet T-shirt contest and over 200 happy customers were able to gaze upon the lovely figures of 30 sexy contestants representing different bars on Fields Ave. The tickets for entry cost P500 and P800 (VIP Seciton) and could be used for purchasing the great food that was available. The swagman's wet T-shirt is a long time tradition in this town and it was good to see it back once again. I would have loved to put a few pictures in but I did not make it to the event because of a Rotary meeting but I'll make up for it the next time.
I ran into Peter Bellamy as he was celebrating his 50th birthday party at the Orchid Inn's Flamingo bar and had to grab a picture to insert here. The reason for the picture is to show folks in other parts of the world why men do not mind turning 50 years of age as long as they can do it here in the Philippines.
VINDALE COURT
Well, time to throw in a couple more pictures of the apartments that Priscilla the Horse and I have under construction. There are 8 units, four of which have been reserved already. There are four units on the ground floor and four on the second plus there is a roof deck that can be used for sunbathing, parties, etc. Each unit has two bedrooms with a connecting bath room and an extra toilet for visitors to use located at the dirty kitchen. The rent is P9,000 a month and these units are unfurnished. At this time we are not offering furnished apartments. They are located close to the Hotel La Casa and the VFW in the Clarkview Subdivision. We expect the units to be ready for occupancy towards the end of November, if all goes as planned. Questions can be directed to Vina or Jimmy D at 63-45-322-7984 or if you are able to able to figure out the time difference you can call 702-932-2654 and be connected directly to my office. Be advised that we are considering one year leases only. THE VFW The VFW located in Clarkview Subdivision is developing a new look. The dining room is being expanded by taking up some of the space in front so I guess the vegetable lady from Baguio will have to find a new location. From what I understand a debate is ongoing as to whether to have the bar area declared a "members only" lounge and this is one of the reasons for the expansion to make room for an increased trade in the dining room. Of course, with all changes, some are for it, some are not but it does make for some interesting conversation amongst the expats that care one way or the other. Additionally, the Post Home Committee has declared that the canteen must generate more funds as the Post income has dropped a bit over the last year. If you want to get the Canteen Manager, Mike, all flustered, ask him "what the hell is he doing to make more money", but also soon afterwards make sure you tell him that you were only kidding. It is no easy task to cut costs and then try to generate more income at the same time and this is when I do not envy Mike his job. But, alas, when cost cutting enters the picture some folks do suffer as was the case when three long time employees were released from their jobs. I will certainly miss Ronnie Miranda, a loyal employee for 15 years, who was not only an employee but a friend to many of the members. Regretfully, this will not be a very happy holiday season for Ronnie as he ponders how to find a job in time to enable him to provide a few Christmas gifts for his two children. According to Ronnie and the other two employees their dismissal was due to the fact that their salaries were too high and operating costs had to be reduced. Ronnie was an unskilled general worker and his duties could be easily transferred to others and I am sure the decision to let him go was not an easy one. If anyone in town needs a good hard working employee that desperately needs a job then please, get in touch with Ronnie and see if you can use him. Meanwhile, construction continues on the expansion despite the need for cost cutting and hopefully, when complete, the additional income generated will assure a quick return of investment. Maybe Mike and the PHC members could invite Ronnie to a free Christmas dinner. DINE AND SLEEP AT
Roy's Pub and Restaurant opposite the Orchid Inn. Publican Clive has kept Roy's Pub as a first class eatery and drinking establishment for many years now but now, for those folks that just hate to leave the Pub Clive has added three rooms upstairs that can be rented out. Clive gave me a tour of the rooms of which he is quite proud of and I must say he has done a fine job of design and decorating. Each room has a small individual safe, a small refrigerator, 24" screen TV, cable ready of course, fan and air-conditioner. Cots are available when necessary. For computer fanatics internet access will be installed in each room but for now, one can use the computer in Roy's office. The price is a low P1350 a day and the Orchid Inn is allowing access to their pool and of course, it is only a few steps away from Roy's where a resident can avail of 24 hour dining. Of course, the location is very convenient, just one street away from Fields Ave and even closer to Real Street. Oh yes, I failed to mention that there is a convenient private entrance as well. CHEETAH'S CLUB
I noticed the sign for the Bambino Sports Bar opening and checked it out. The door to the bar was locked for security reasons but by simply going into the restaurant I found someone to open it. Of course the place was empty but the pool table was looking good and for those that like to practice a game of pool this seems like the place to do so, without worrying about being interrupted. I mention it because a couple of guys could eat lunch at the restaurant and then play some pool. I'm not sure how well used it will get because of the location and the fact that not many people know about it. Maybe Bambino's will want to enter a pool team in some of the leagues in town. I think it would make a good venue for that. NEW RESTAURANT OPENS
Earlier in the year I wrote about the renovations of what used to be the True Blue Restaurant on Friendship Highway, formerly owned by Charles Horne. I reported that there were new owners and that a massive facelift was taking place. The work has been done, it is open to the public, it looks good, inside and out and it is named "Simple Asia". This is a very nice eatery with a relaxing motif thoughout and the menu offers a wide range of selections. I stopped by for lunch and tried the Citrus Chicken which is sauteed in lemon, honey, and garlic and served with rice which was enough to fill me up and the taste was unique to me' it was delicious! The entres range from P225 to P430 (Osso Bucco), bar chow from P135-P310, Soup P70 or P95 and salads from P125-P160. Drink prices are reasonable so in general this restaurant is upscale in prices but not so far up the scale that it is beyond one's pocketbook. I ate my lunch at 1330 hours and found that I had the whole place to myself but then their hours for lunch are 1100 to 1400 hrs so I missed the lunch crowd. Evening hours are from 1800 to 2200 hrs and for those desiring to bring in a large group there is a very nice function room available. It is located on Friendship Highway so one of the nice things is that it is easy to park. This is a place where those two on Base AOL employees would enjoy eating at if you could get them away from the "C" Italian Restaurant for one night. I still can't see why folks want to eat Ozzo Bucco, especially at P430 a pop, but then, with my McDonalds taste I am not expected to understand. One thing I do understand though is that the Simple Asia Restaurant provides its patrons with a very nice dining experience. JUST FOR FUN
GO2PHIL.COM REUNION
Hoards descend on Angeles City! Maybe not hoards, but more than 30 members of www.go2phil.com attended the 2nd Annual G2P Reunion held the 2nd and 3rd week of October. This year’s events started with a party at Confetti’s on the 10th and ended with a phenomenally successful Miss Go 2 Phil at Kokomo’s on the 23rd. In between parties were held at (in chronologic order) Angels, Nifty’s, Las Vegas, Rhapsody, Geckos, Private Dancer, Pool Party and BBQ at Kokomo’s, Treasure Island, Jungle, Tom Cat, Blue Fox, Voodoo, Lollipop and Sucker’s.. Many of those who survived the week headed down to Puerta Gallera for a 3 day break before heading home.
From what this Horse understands, this event was the finest held in Angeles City in years. It brought a ton of tourists to town who found out just how much fun the City can be. Kudos to John ‘Beeline’ for his fantastic organization and planning.
ANOTHER SENIOR CITIZEN COLLECTS
Mo (Dave) will cross a major threshold early this month. He become eligible for US Social Security. Word is he’s going to spend his ENTIRE first check on parties on November 6th and 7th at Voodoo, Lollipop, TI and Angels (Dave, which day at the Blue Boar Inn?). Watch go2phil for details.
WET SEALS IS BORN AGAIN
MAD DOG MC CLUB
On the weekend of 22, 23, 24 Oct the Mad Dogs Motocycle Club put on one hell of a great party for their 10th Anniversary. Angeles City had what looked like a motorcycle convention with representatives from all over Asia and of course Manila and Angeles City. The town was alive with roaring motors being revved up and Hell's Angels look-a-likes. But this was a friendly mob made up of professional businessmen, sportsmen, teachers, doctors, mechanics, whatever and you couldn't ask for a better bunch of guys. Naturally the bars in town loved their presence as there was fun for one and all and the booze and money flowed freely. On the Friday night there was a well attended party at the Officer's Club on Clark Field with entertainment, song and dance and plenty of food. Saturday found everybody at the area in front of the Officer's Club with the parking lot full of motorcycles on display and food booths in the parking lot. It was a festival, it was exciting, it was colorful, my goodness, please guys, make this a yearly event. It was great for the kids, the wives, girlfriends, and Angeles City. The weather was perfect, not too hot and not a drop or rain. There was proud daddy, Big Todd, chasing his two year old son, little Jack around the parking lot as he joyously scooted along on his mini-bike. Apol had his son Gavin sitting on a mini motorcycle that actually had a real motor that started up when the rope was pulled, like on a lawn mower. On display were a few hundred bikes and a scooter from Aprilia that cost P785,000 fully loaded, with sound of course and a racing bike costing 1.7 million pesos. There were Mad Dogs from Japan, Thailand, Philippines, Singapore and Hong Kong but what made this event so exciting was that many other MC Clubs in the Philippines joined in to help celebrate this momentous occasion. Mad Dogs, you done yourselves proud, what a great effort and whover organized this event needs to be congratulated for a job well done. You guys called it a biketoberfest and I think it shoud be held every October, how bout it? Can do???
If you are wondering where to buy your fireworks for the New Year celebrations or any other special event then get in touch with Mr and Mrs Kaboom who along with the "Kaboom Boom Girls" will take care of fiery needs. Mr. Kaboom had one hell of a display at the O'Club parking lot and he guarantees the safest fireworks sold in this town. Of course, there is always the need to be safety conscious when dealing with fireworks but Mr. Kaboom takes extra care in his manufacture to give you that little extra edge of safety. Give them a call at 0921-733-5880 and arrange to see what they have to offer. It is quite interesting and Mr. Kaboom loves to talk about the history of fireworks and how they are made in Bocaue, Bulacan.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR
As i mentioned in my intro to this month's column my wife celebrated a landmark birthday and it was a very wonderful evening. We had three entertainers from Manila that helped make the evening success but I must give special thanks to three local volunteers who added a bit of extra talent to the evening. So, Damien (Honey Ko's), Anita Baker (from Calif., sister of Dave Baker) and of course big Willie S. a player on the Blue Boar Inn pool team, the Mrs. and I thank you for your vey fine efforts on our behalf. Willie, I am still trying to find that Lou Rawls song for you. My wife Vina (her real name) forbid me to say anything about her party or to use her picture but folks it was too special an evening for me to not write something. So, guess my Mrs. will just have to sue me!
You better believe that it is time for me to get out of here now and hope that I don't suffer too much for the entry above. But this horse never runs away from a good story and for sure it was a very wonderful October for me. Our son, Jason, celebrated his 6th birthday on 31 Oct and that evening we had our usual fun scaring kids that entered our haunted house. Now I have to get my Santa Claus outfit out of the box and get ready for my annual Christmas Eve visit to two local hospitals to give out food packages, candy and money to the patients in the charity wards. On Dec 21, 22, and 23 this Santa will be appearing at the Nepo Mall so kids and parents can have their picture on Santa's Knee. This is one of the ways I am able to get contributions in kind for our Christmas project. There is only one problem, for some reason I seem to get older every year and my arthritic knees and back take a bit of a beating. Not to worry, this Thanksgiving I will give thanks for another great year and be grateful for the strength to be Santa once again. Don't forget the Knights of the Brown Ring (AH Mtg) on 6 Nov. Hey, have a happy Thanksgiving and remember, be kind to horses. |
WANJAI THAI RESTAURANT
ANGELES CLARKFIELD TOURISM ASSOCIATION, INC. (ACTA)
THE WILD ORCHID RESORT
HIDDEN VALE SPORTS RESORT
PHILIPPINE INTERNATIONAL HOSPITAL (PIH)
I did it again, lost my notes on this young man. I sure hate to admit it as Bart (Mr Guiness) took the trouble to bring me over some very different jars of mustard from Ireland. Two Irist made mustards that have a very aromatic, tasty flavor and I am so happy to have them. Bart also treated Priscilla and I to a meal at the Swiss Chalet where he was staying. Now, according to my weak memory, I can say that Bart has been working in Ireland for six years and loves it there. I would like to say where he is staying but that is one part of my notes I can't remember. He is well traveled, having been born in Zaire, Africa and then living in enough different countries to where he can speak six languages fluently. The Blue Nile was one of his favorite bars and, of course, he was very pleased with the Swiss Hotel, especially its food. I hope Bart forgives me for losing my notes but believe me, I think of his kindness every time I make a super sandwich and spread all that Irish mustard on the bread. 
My objective in going to Angels Bar was to say to the new owner, John Lewis, who divides his time between Angeles City and his business in Korea. While talking to him, Vegas Gary and a few others my eye caught this fantastic looking dancer at the far end of the bar. This was not easy as my eyes are lousy but but she stood out in the crowd. I asked John if we could get her off the stage and come over for a photo and a short interview as I wanted to feature her this month. The Mamasan called her over and she looked just as good up close and she did have a very nice smile and a fantastic personality. Her name is Cony, 25 years old, from Manila and stands 5'3". Believe it or not, she is a cherry girl despite having worked at Angels for one year, left, went home for quite a few months and at the time of this picture had been back to work only three weeks. Cony has completed one year of college and would like to return to school to finish her degree. I took three different photos that night and no matter how hard I tried I could not get her to open her eyes when the flash went off. Not to worry, you can tell that this lady has a bit of class and I wonder how long she will continue to be found at Angels before some lucky guy gets her for his own. By the way, Angels remains a great club to visit and they have plenty of great looking ladies, but after meeting Cony, no one else looked quite as good to me. I left, and headed for home, confident that I had succeeded in finding the perfect lady for this month's feature. Hope you agree!
PETER TURNS 50 
Here are a few of the contestants for the Miss Cheetah contest during their first anniversary celebration. It was shortly after that the it was decided to close the Club temporarily until a new management team can be brought on board. The closure had nothing to do with finances, staff problems, legal problems, etc. It was just a decision based on a personal preference of an individual who wanted to sever any ties with the operation of a night club. By the time this article is published, no doubt it will be up and running again. I hated to waste a good picture of a few sexy ladies who may or may not return when the club reopens. 
SPORTS BAR FINALLY OPENS
Meet Dave Wardon (Orlando, Florida) and Sam King (Honolulu) who are featured here for no particular reason other than they had great personalities and absolutely loved their visit to Angeles City. They are more than anxious to return even though the lad on crutches had a hell of a time with a leg infection that still needs treatment in the States. While here he sought treatment at the Philippine International Hospital (PIH) but wanted to have an IV set-up administered, buy the medicine and take his treatment at home. PIH did not agree to do that as an out-patient as it would have been unethical to do so. They would have admitted him him for treatment instead or possibly provide a nurse to treat him at home. Dave was a bit upset with that policy so he left and went to AUF Hospital. The AUF doctor was a bit less concerned with ethics and took care of Dave by taking him to the emergency room where the IV was administered for a P600 fee. So, despite IV problems and crutches nothing slowed down Dave and his mate as they weaved their way through the exotic clubs on Fields Ave. You see, it just goes to show, you can be half dead when visiting Angeles City and still have a good time. 
Amy and Miguel have opened the doors to the new Wet Seals Bar which is located just past Roy's Pub and opposite the Orchid Inn. It is a small cozy establishment with the pool room on the second floor. They even have a bit of space where you can sit outside if you so desire. Right now, no dancing girls or GRO's but the GRO situation could change in the future. The place is still in development and Amy has been quite busy getting everything set up. Miguel is in the States and Amy has had to do a lot on her own. They have a menu with some tasty delights and the page featuring some steaks had me fighting hunger pains. So, all you Wet Seals fans that miss seeing Amy, get on over to their new place and say hello.
KABOOM! 
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