For sure that is not me doing a bit of work on the roof, not with my bad knees and back.  But, the construction on the new Horse stable is nearly complete with Mrs. Horse and I ready to move in.  That means that directly after the 5 Aug meeting (Stampede, Gentlemen's Club and Cherry's Club ladies) of the Knights of the Brown Ring (AH Club) renovations to the Blue Boar Inn watering hole will commence and the bar will be closed down for a couple of months.  The closure will put further meetings of the AH Club on hold until 7 Oct 06 at which time AH Club members can meet to initiate the new look of the Blue Boar Inn.  In order to keep my staff on board and still serve a few drinks a newly built outdoor bar has been constructed in the carport and special construction prices on local drinks will be served.  Our kitchen will remain functional and operational from 0800 to 2300 daily.  Our home pool games will be played away, i.e, Mondays at the HoneyKo's Club and hopefully, Fridays at the Brass Knob.  Financially, it will be a rough two months as I fear our customers will drift away for a while but with luck, they will return in October and enjoy the fruits of our labor.

TIDBITS

As I watch O'Reilly on Fox News each morning he closes with "the most ridiculous item of the day" but now I would like to relate what I consider the most ridiculous quote of the month.  While reading my 3 Jul issue of Time Magazine I saw that their Q & A section was with Imelda Marcos, not one of my favorite persons.  Anyway, the question was "How did your husband become so wealthy?"  Imelda answered "Marcos was a gold trader.  When he entered politics in 1949, he had tons and tons of gold ... it wasn't stolen".  I nearly choked on my dinner when I read this and I am still laughing one month later.  There were a few other equally ridiculous answers to some other questions along with a not very flattering picture of her from the neck up.  Hillary Clinton should love Imelda as both of them are very talented in the art of fabrication.  By the way, Imelda also said that she will start a project "that will wipe out poverty in the Philippines in two years ... using the Marcos wealth".  Regretfully, she did not say when this two year project would begin.  Oh well, only five more months until Christmas and now all the squatters and masses of poor people have something to look forward to.  Meanwhile, lets see what is happening in Angeles City and review a few Email messages sent to the Horse.

Hello Harry,
Hope all is well and glad to hear your pockets were not picked at SM Mall. (the lady who picked my pocket spent three weeks in jail waiting for the hearing.  Priscilla and I figured we made our point and maybe she learned a lesson - we dismissed the charge rather than go to trial on 19 Aug)

In your July article Mr Nelson has a computer problem, as a friend of mine has also experienced the same I can offer a simple solution. Mr Nelson need only reformat his hard drive and the Microsoft counterfeit warning and requests will disappear, a former friend of mine fell for the same validation request for the latest downloads and paid the price. There is nothing physically wrong with the copied versions of windows you just don't validate with Microsoft. (Wayne, if he formats won't he lose all his data unless he takes the time to back up everything he needs?)  I really enjoy your writings on events and happenings in Angeles City, please keep up the great work!
Yours Sincerely, Wayne McGee

Now, I have no idea if Paul wrote that last item himself but it is there in black and white and I can absolutely guarantee that the Villa Modesto does not have the best pool in town.  Lets just say there is a fairly nice small pool there.  That item must have been quite old.  By the way, we DO NOT have brothels in AC nor will you see such rubbish written on the AC Board.

I have never been to the Asian Reef Hotel up Subic way and doubt that I will make it there before the Subic-Clark toll road is finished.  Now, if I had the energy to travel a bit this anniversary bash by Gavin (the boss) sounds interesting.  It seems that he is inviting everyone that can make it there on 19 Aug so if you are in AC and need an excuse to travel to the beaches, look no further, trip on over to the Asian Reef.  Gavin sent out these words:  "for those who never made it to my birthday party at Asian Reef, you can take a look at the pictures by going to http://www.asianreef.com/news.html   We plan to have a First anniversary party on August 19, with a theme along similar lines. Hope to see you there!!!  Check out the website it has all the details you need. 

Harry, Greetings from Hemet California !!

You may not know where Hemet is so I will tell you. It's between LA & San Diego, closer to San Diego then LA, and it's inland from Dana Point about 60-70 miles (I think). Ok so now you no where I am. (you are right, I had no idea where it was and I have no idea where Dana Point is either)

I just wanted to thank you for letting me in on what is going on in Angeles City. I was stationed at the Clark hospital from Jan 1969 until May 31 1970 as a medic in the Air Force. I have wanted to come back for a visit but so far I was to afraid to come by myself but after reading your articles I think I will be just fine on my own. Or I could ask one of my friends that I was stationed with at Clark so many years ago !! (Get you butt on a plane and get on over here - 36 years is too damn long to be afraid to make a return visit - you would have a ball)

At this moment I am trying to find anyone who was stationed at Clark Hospital from 1964-1973. The reason ......... a first ever REUNION !! This reunion will be held in Dallas Texas in Oct 2007. If you know of anyone who might fit into those years at the Clark Hospital please pass my email address on to them (gene_archer at hotmail.com) . Or they can contact Capt. Donna de Wildt at DMATICS at aol.com as she is one of the other chair persons helping with this reunion. If I do get an email just put in the subject line Clark reunion. (Gene, if I remember correctly I put a notice about this reunion in one of my columns last year.  Naturally, my memory sucks so not sure which month, so am happy to include it again.  Oct 2007 is a long way off so send me a short announcement again around Aug 07)
again keep up the great work with your articles and I will keep looking for the new ones each month. (No thanks necessary, just get over here and buy me a drink, or lunch, or maybe even dinner and I will provide the armed guard for you)   Sincerely,  Gene Archer 

I mentioned this once before but be advised that the NLEX (Expressway) does use a radar system with camera to track speeding cars passing a certain point on the expressway.  They will stop you and give a ticket as you are exiting the expressway in Manila.  The good news is that they can only use it during daylight hours when it is light enough for the camera to pick up the license plate number.  (Tom Clinton sent me an Email to remind me of this as he read about it in a newspaper article).

 Believe it or not, these Mad Dog's are not trying to determine if Bob Lewis, from Hong Kong measures up to become a Mad Dog because he just went through the initiation to become a full fledged member.  It is just that the rite of passage to become a "Mad Dog" gets a bit messy and very smelly.  Bob just figured it was easier to get undressed and get hosed down to get all the shit off him.  It is all in fun and it is one of those ceremonies that one never forgets.  They had members from Thailand, Japan, Hong Kong, Manila, and Angeles City that gathered at their official meeting place in AC, the Hang Out.  Dave White was the usual good host and the big bikes in attendance were a sight to behold.  The Mad Dogs are a bunch of adults that love their bikes and share a common bond and are a bunch of good guys to know.  They play and work hard and will always reach out a helping hand whenever needed.  OK already, the "Horse" is a groupie!

This incident took place near my stable and I guess that it pays to keep a good "Louisville Slugger bat" close by your bed.  It caught my attention that the neighbors had seen these strangers cruising the neighborhood and did not note the license plates or bring it to the attention of the authorities.  This could have turned into a very serious incident with physical injury to the Laflamme family - be careful out there folks, stay alert and warn your neighbors to report any suspicious activities to the police.

"Hi Harry - This is Jim Laflamme. I live a couple blocks east of La Casa on Tamarind Street, and I watched the Superbowl with you last Feb. I just wanted to let you know that we were the victims of a failed armed robbery last night. Apparently six men with guns on two motorcycles with no license plates showed up around 8:30 and two of them rang our bell. When my sister-in-law answered it they stuck a gun in her ribs and gagged her. Well my baby started crying and aroused all in the house who grabbed knives & I snatched up my Louisville Slugger in response. I guess they didn't realize so many would be in here (6 adults) and beat a retreat. The police responded and did an investigation and gave us a few recommendations that were helpful. The barangay patrol came too. I believe the perps were young drug addicts looking for some cash. The neighbors have seen this bunch before cruising around the neighborhood looking for easy scores. I just wanted to pass on a warning that this occurred on secured property in early evening with lots of folks out & about, so be careful at all times and situations. We are all OK, but pretty shaken up. Regards - Jim L."

Another scam at the NAIA - Be on the alert:  " Harry, recently I arrived at the airport in Manila and needed a telephone booth. A man walked up to me as I was asking a security guard for a telephone location. The man said that I could use his cell phone. The security guard walked away in haste. That alerted me and I refused the offer. The man continued to walk along side me and insisted I use his phone. I whipped out my Police Retirement Badge and he disappeared. I later learned that if you use the cell phone they can lock in the number you called, and than later use it to make long distance calls. Jim in Las Pinas". (thanks for the information Jim, just another item to be on the alert for at the NAIA)

Last month I passed on the highly illegal arrest of one Kevin Hallaran, associated with the T-Times bar and what he went through.  Well, after spending 15 days in jail and getting the case dismissed by the Fiscals, the energetic NBI officials had him charged again, this time using two different girls.  This time Kevin did not use Attorney Timbol at all and was able to find other avenues of assistance that succeeded in getting the new charge dismissed without any additional payments.  It was dismissed after it was found that the new charge was identical to the original charges that had already been dismissed.  Naturally, T-Times is now up for sale and Kevin is looking forward to a relaxed, less conspicuous presence in Angeles City.  By the way, the 17 year old sister of his girlfriend had been held by DSWD officials all this time until this final dismissal of charges, and also, she turned 18 while being a guest of this government organization.  Now she can continue her training as a bookkeeper without further harassment.  The 17 Jul 06 recommendation/resolution from the Office of the City Prosecutor reads in part "While it may be true that preliminary investigation is being conducted to determine only probable cause, its purpose also is to secure the innocent against the hasty, malicious and oppressive prosecution and to protect him from an open and public accusation of a crime, for the trouble, expenses and anxiety of a public trial".  That was interesting, fortunately, this time Kevin was not incarcerated in that hell hole of a cell at Station 174 and also the Fiscal informed the NBI officials to desist from trying to present any further charges against Kevin under the same criteria that has now been dismissed twice. 

"Dear Harry - The judicial treatment of foreigners in general and Americans in particular in Angeles City continues to sicken me.  Your recent  description of Kevin Hallaran's case is another in a long list of egregious actions taken against foreigners by Philippine Judicial authorities.  But it's not just us foreigners that they abuse they also do it to their own people.  Please let me relate to your readers a true incident that occurred last month.

While on her way to work my wife's good friend Rosalyn was crossing MacArthur highway at the entrance to Clark at 4:00AM.  She looked both ways and began crossing the street.  Suddenly out of nowhere came a car with no headlights on and traveling an estimated 60 kph.  The car hit her and threw her more than 100 feet.  The car continued on and impacted the barricades that form the round-a-bout.  The police quickly apprehended the driver and an ambulance took Rosalyn unconscious to AUF Hospital.  The driver of the car had no driver's license and was determined to be drunk.  He was immediately placed in jail.  After 4 days in a coma Rosalyn died of her massive head injuries leaving 5 kids aged 3 to 16 to fend for themselves.  After Rosalyn died my wife went to the Police station to help Rosalyn's sister file charges against the drunk driver.  They were shocked to discover that after 24 hours the drunk driver was given the keys to his car and allowed to drive away.  He has since disappeared.  Essentially he only served 24 hours for committing a vehicular homicide.  Do I need to tell you that he was a Filipino. 

I know there is widespread corruption in the Philippines but where is the justice for Rosalyn?  She was a nice lady and one of their own.  What's up with this judicial system that incarcerates someone on financially motivated accusations and then lets a killer go free?  What kind of people are these Filipinos?  David Mason, resident of Balibago".  ( Dave, this surely was a traumatic incident but you left out many details.  Which police station was the driver taken to?  What were the names of the investigating officers?  What is the date of this incident?  Did anyone from the victims family go to the police station within 24 hours to file a complaint?  Unlike in the States or many other countries who will hold a suspect for prosecution based on evidence and legal action taken by the State.  Here, someone from the victim's family should have followed up within 24 hours and made a formal complaint at the police station.  If a suspect is held longer than 24 hours without a formal complaint the police can be libel for arbitrary detention.  I called Col Imperial, station 4 Commander and he advised that a formal complaint can still be prepared if someone from the family will initiate the complaint even though more than a month has passed. Anyway, the complaint will be forwarded to the Fiscal and if the evidence warrants, a summons to appear will be prepared.  If the driver ignores this summons then a warrant of arrest will be issued.  The family should also have the death certificate and all pertinent documentation from the hospital for evidence of wrongful death.  The bottom line is not that the driver is a Filipino, it is the legal system that applies here.  If you waited four days before returning to the police station then you waited too long.  But, it is not too late to pursue the case and if you have any further questions then contact Col Imperial at Station four, he has agreed to assist you.  Possibly, because your wife was a friend and not a family member, she just gave up a bit too easily and did not want to be further involved.  Quite honestly, the family members should be pursuing this).

Honesty is alive in well!  Well it may be in small doses but when there is an occurrence of a special circumstance where employees reach out to be honest and helpful it is noteworthy.  Such a circumstance took place at the Blue Nile Executive Hotel last month.  A tourist had checked in at the Hotel on 21 Jul and checked out on 22 Jul at .  After his departure the receptionists of the hotel found that one wallet had been left on the chair as well as a video camera.  Upon discovery they immediately notified Richard Agnew who discovered that the wallet contained 2,000 Australian dollars and now the search for the owner began.  The girls remembered that the customer mentioned that he was going to the Wild Orchid Inn and called that establishment and had the individual paged. They asked him a few questions and he acknowledged that he had misplaced his wallet and camera.  He was able to return to the Blue Nile at 1645 hours and the items were returned to him.  The grateful tourist gave the two receptionists a cash award.  The Mayor's office has been notified and the Mayor is scheduling a meeting with the two ladies, Joan Opamin and Maria Vannessa Tayco

The management of SEAIR have informed me that they will be opening a SEAIR ticket office at the Clark SM Mall in late August.  It will be located directly opposite the main entrance of the Hypermart.  The office located on Fields Ave, CDC stall 91 will remain. 

The Russians are here! - and they are located on Clark.  The will be operating a new airline with Cargo and passenger service.  The name of the company is Mosphil AeroInc. and they will be using Russina Antonov aircraft.  The passenger aircraft is an Antonov 24B that can seat fifty passengers.  One is here now but three more will be added later.  Two cargo planes are here, Antonov 26's and two more will be added.  The passenger planes will be servicing the Mindanao area and I have heard that they will be trying to be operational sometime in October.  I wonder if they will be serving caviar and vodka?

Rumor has it that there will be a ground breaking ceremony for the new DMIA terminal extension in September we suspect that it is being funded by some Middle Eastern interests.  The cost is rumored to be over 100 million dollars and the package includes radar.  The new building will be built over the domestic terminal which will remain and there may be up to two aerobridges connecting everything.  As you can tell I do not have all the details and am still trying to confirm this information.  OK, let me add some more chismis, possibly the Emirates and Gulf Air are thinking of flying into Clark on a regular basis.  I'm on a roll, how about that maybe Viva Macao Airlines is planning a Macao-Clark-Manila route and even Thai Air Asia has all necessary approvals to use Clark and is just waiting on an aircraft.  My long Horse ears are burning up with gossip and I sure hope that all these rumors become a reality.

FREE U.S. TAX CONSULTATION - Les Edelman of Edelman Tax Services (based in Europe) is an experienced U.S. tax professional, specializing in taxes for Americans living overseas.  Mr. Edelman will be visiting the Subic area from July 21 to August 10 and is offering local American residents free tax consultations (up to 1 hour).  He can review your last few tax returns, or answer questions about U.S. taxation rules for expats.  If you are interested in this offer, send Mr. Edelman an email at Les at edelmantax.com providing your name, email address, phone number, and Mr. Edelman will be in touch with you to schedule an appointment. THE IRS WILL GIVE YOU MONEY FOR YOUR CHILDREN! - Many U.S. expats (whether or not they file US tax returns) do not realize is that if you are a U.S. expat with U.S.-citizen (or green card) children (under age 17), you may actually be able to get money from the IRS!  (in other words, you pay nothing, and the IRS pays YOU).  This is due to a little-known rule called the "additional child tax credit" which is one of a few "refundable credits".  The additional child tax credit opportunity is one very good reason why you should talk to a specialized tax professional about your U.S. taxes, and to think about filing US tax returns if you currently do not do so.   This opportunity can be worth as much as $1,000 per child.  The child's mother does not need to be a US citizen.  Contact Les Edelman at Les at edelmantax.com for more information. (I suggested that Les spend a few days in Angeles City to make it easier for any expats here that would want to meet with him.  He has agreed to do so and will let me know which days he will be available and the location)

SMEAR PRICE REACTS TO INFLATION

As many of you know, the ladies of the night that work in the Clubs are required to report to the City Medical Clinic every week for a smear to make sure that she has not picked up a dose of you know what.  For quite some time now the price of this procedure has stood at P20 but rose to P60 in July.  I am sure that the average reader will say "so what, P60 isn't all that much".  Ah, gentlemen, that is one hell of a big jump at one price and the wise men of the City Council did not even hold a hearing on the subject.  It does have a serious economic impact on the Clubs who pay for these smears.  Take the case of the Blue Nile Group who have around 600 ladies working and the Champagne Group with hundreds as well and figure the difference between the 20 pesos and the sixty peso charge.  Yep, one hell of an impact.  Does that mean a P5 increase in the price of drinks? damned if I know!  I am just glad that the little stable this horse lives in only has five little fillies to worry about.  Sometimes it pays to be small (I am not talking about that thing between your legs already so no comments please).  Remember, a smear a week keeps the doctor away so you lads can pay to play.  

P240,000 bribe - The actual post is below:  (This post garnered an enormous amount of opinions on the AC message board and was taken quite seriously.  I sent a copy of this to the President of the ACTA and will send another copy to Secretary Rene Diaz.  Regretfully, the victim was not able to explain exactly what kind of police detained him or where they took him other than over the Abacan Bridge.  The newly formed Greater Clark Visitors Bureau (GCVB) will be informed and also, hopefully, this and other similary incidents will be brought to the attention of the President of the Philippines.  It won't happen overnight but it is hoped that certain elements of various law enforcement agencies will be brought under control.  Meanwhile, please folks, if you are victimized, notify the Tourist Auxiliary Police, hotline 625-9999 as soon as possible.  Even if you are leaving the country the next day and have paid off these wolves, give us the details so we can build up case histories.  Even if you have left the country, send me the details via Email.  Try to remember names, times, locations, whether they were in uniform or civilian clothes, it all helps.  It is the objective of ACTA to put a stop to this nonsense, regardless of how long it takes.)

"Well...what can I say? Definitely had the nightmare experience of my life and I'm not one who takes chances but I'm telling my story here to hopefully help others avoid going through what i faced. Arrived in AC on June 28 and stayed at the Wild Orchid. Great hotel. All you could ask for. Barhopped the first 4 nights, different bars, barfined out of each one and had wonderful times with the girls. Always was respectful to the girls, bought drinks for the waitresses and Mamasans , and bought breakfast for each EWR in the morning and gave each one a 500p tip before they left. So far so good right? Well one night I'm in a bar (The new Korean owned Icarus Club) on Fields chatting up a few girls when one of the waitresses introduces me to her cousin who is new in town, 19 years old, just in from the province. She isn't working yet but looking to start soon. A real cutie with a 1 year old son living back in the province being looked after by the family. Anyway to make a long story short, I make a deal with this girl for 1000p plus breakfast and a 500p in the morning. She happily agrees and off we go. I also tipped the cousin 500p before we left the bar and she commented that I was very generous and assured me that her cousin would show me a good time. Well me and the cousin head out to barhop a little more then back to the Wild Orchid for a swim, a little TV, and some awesome boom-boom. So far so good. Comes the morning and we have breakfast and back to the room for one final boom-boom. As she is getting dressed I give her 500p and another 50p for a trike. She gives me this sad look and asks for 3000p!!!! cause her baby needs medicine, blah blah blah. I just smile and tell her Sorry...but I told you last night I would give you 1000p plus a 500p tip for a total of 1500p. She gets real nasty and calls me a cheap charlie, takes the money and storms out. About an hour later I exit the hotel and there are 2 PNP police with the girl. No shit. I can see what's coming. Anyway they haul me to the police station and say the girl has accused me of rape! HA!  Nice. I tell them the real story. They just smile and tell me they have sent the girl to the doctor for a physical exam. The girl and her friend (not cousin from other nite) return and the bogus? report shows "physical trauma" to the vaginal area. Gee..I ask Could that have been from the 25 trike boyfriends banging her the previous week? The cops play the "good cop, bad cop routine" with one telling me I will go to jail, no bail, get the death penalty, etc while the "good cop" tells me he is on "my side" and will try to work things out. LOL! If this didn't really happen to me I could laugh about it! Anyway after about an hour we agree on a number. Its a lot. With 25% going to the PNP. Yes... I paid cause I'm not sure what would have happened if I did not pay. Maybe I would have been released. Maybe charged. However, if charged and forced to wait weeks or months in a Phil jail...I would have lost my job back home...worth $150,000/year....so in my mind paying the bribe was the lesser of 2 evils. To give you an idea the bribe came to over 200 EWR's. I paid and left the Phils the next day probably never to return. My question is: what would you have done in my situation? Understand if I was retired and did not have a job to return to I maybe would have chanced it and waited it out to see if I could have got off cheaper but the risk to me would have been greater if I had lost my job back home. Im also wondering if I was set up from the beginning by this girl and her cousin or if the cousin herself did this as a spur of the moment thing cause I didn't give her 3000p when she left. I guess maybe I have some blame here cause in reality the girl was a freelancer , but I DID ask to see her ID card before we left the bar and she was 19. What's ironic about this is that I would never pick a freelancer outside the bars but inside I felt I was ok...especially since the girl was related to one of the girls already working for the bar. My mistake. Again....this is my story...the moral is...STICK TO GIRLS WORKING IN THE BAR...STAY AWAY FROM ANY AND ALL FREELANCERS EVEN IF YOU MEET THEM INSIDE AN ESTABLISHED BAR. What sucks about this is that I really like AC but now have no desire to return and may just stick to Thailand. Any comments would be appreciated. Be careful.
(In a recent column I mentioned the danger of dealing with freelancers, please gentlemen, stay away from them.  I hope this gentlemen will return to Angeles City eventually, and all he has to do to have a good time is to follow his own advice - On the night of 22 Jul at about 10:15 PM I visited the Icarus Club and found it to be a very large one room with a stage for the dancers, a pool table to the left side of the room and to the right a separate area for the bar and some seats for customers.  The big floor area had many round tables and seats for four or five.  As soon as I entered I was escorted to my seat at a table and immediately two ladies sat down.  One was a waitress in a nice suit type uniform but the other one was in street attire.  She had a bit of an attitude and left after I ignored her.  The waitress stayed and was very pleasant.  I bought her a ladies drink (P120) and my local drink (SM Light) cost P60.  She told me that an EWR cost P1200 and that many of the customers were Korean and Filipino.  She indicated that the Koreans were rather cheap and quite often, obnoxious or just plain difficult.  Her thoughts not mine but I was not surprised.  Anyway, at this time the place was nearly empty and except for one foreigner playing pool I was the only expat in the place.  The waitress (GRO) who sat with me was nice and was not aggressive but, of course, the floor manager did not lose time in asking if I was going to buy the GRO a ladies drink.  This is to be expected.  There was a T-Bird customer who looked like a prize fighter buying one of the dancers 10 shots of tequila and that brought a bit of entertainment to the stage.  I was told that she/he had bought 15 shots for another dancer earlier and that she was sleeping it off in another room, out of action for the night.  I left before the 10 shots were consumed and as I was waiting outside for my transportation a van arrived and deposited a few Korean customers.  Now, the person who passed on his experience above also wrote that the Icarus should not be boycotted since maybe management was not aware of what was happening and that it might have been an isolated event.  Maybe so!  My feeling after visiting the place is that it was a Club that I was not completely comfortable with but I did appreciate the fact that the music was not overly loud and I could converse comfortably with the GRO.  I felt that it was like being in a banquet hall and even though the ladies were friendly I kept looking over my shoulder for that "free lancer" to approach me.  Would I return?  Maybe!  But it is not high on my recommendation list for the non-Korean tourist trade plus I felt that that darn T-Bird should have bought me a drink!

Hey guys, if anyone knows of an apartment that meets this guys needs, please drop him a line at his email address. 

"I had one more thought.  I will be in AC in September and December for 2-3 weeks.  But next June I plan on staying in AC for 2-3 months.  I am looking for an apartment fairly close to Fields or Perimeter that rents by the week or month.  What I need is a one bedroom with kitchen (refrigerator, stove, etc.), good AC, good hot water, safe with some sort of security or guard, furnished, and the ability to have high speed Internet so that I can work.  I need all these things. Do you know of some places like this or a source to find them?  Thanks once again.
Paul (weinsure2 at cox.net )"

I call him big John, and I did write down his last name and also the name of his three week old daughter!  Yep, you guess it, I lost the damn piece of paper with that data on it again.  I have to learn to quit using scraps of paper when I am out.  Sometimes I use a paper napkin but then at times I run into an emergency bowel movement when out and hit a place with no toilet paper.  In desperation I use the napkin which I forgot had my notes on it, but then what else could I do? 

As you can see John is a pretty big lad and a proud daddy he is.  Can you imagine, by looking at John that at one time he was the same size as his daughter.  We can only hope that as she grows to adulthood that her size does not catch up to the old man. 

Oh, I did remember that Damien's daughter's name is Veronica!

The following information was sent to me by Joseph Nelson but my wife's Nephew provided the part about the phone version info.  Me, I did not know about this at all.

Here is something worth knowing if you have a mobile phone ... There is a simple way of making lost or stolen mobiles useless to thieves and the phone companies know about it, but keep it quiet.  To check your mobile phone's serial number, key in the following on your phone:

star-hash-zero-six-hash ( * # 0 6 # ) and a fifteen digit code will appear on the screen. This is unique to your handset. Write it down and keep it safe. Should your mobile phone get stolen, you can phone your service provider and give them this code. They will then be able to block your handset, so even if the thief changes the sim card, your phone will be totally useless. You probably won't get your phone back, but at least you know that whoever stole it can't use/sell it either. If everybody did this, there would be no point in stealing mobile phones. (Additionally type in (*#0000#) and you will get the phone version data.  Save that also.)

PRESS RELEASE FROM UTP

The following information came to me from Jerry Prinz, past Commander of the VFW (damn good one too).  I read the same article and was going to extract it but Jerry, thanks for saving me a bit of work.  Yes, it appears that they are finally getting their act together on the use of the I-Card

TAPS -  The old bugle played it's soulful tune for Robert M. Gilmore on 12 July.  Bob was a member of American Legion Post 123 and was a retired USAF TSgt.

Retired USAF TSgt Thomas J. Finn passed away on 19 Jul 06 at Angeles University Hospital.  He was a member of the American Legion Post 123 and VFW Post 2485.  He would have been 70 years old on 22 July 06.  He was laid to rest at the Clark Cemetery. 

SO SAD

Dear Harry In your newsletter June 2006 Heading "Thank Goodness" you have placed a photo of an unnamed run down, and derelict person asleep on the ground. Well this lady was a GRO and dancer in the old Ziggies-Bar. Her name is Jackie Clarke who came down to Angeles from Olongapo, after Mt.Pinatubo 1993. Jackie got into shabu very heavily in the mid to late nineties, and would not allow any one to help her "Kick" the habit. I attach a couple of Photos of her (including yours) while she was quite a good looking and attractive Lady. Respectfully, John.

KEITH GETS A BREAK

Keith Schwarz, Flt Engineer, 1st SOS, out of Kadena dropped by for a few brews last month and a bit of good food.  Yes, Jim, Cottage Kitchen is not the only place with good food.  Now, my stable is a bit short of women because of its out of the way location but we tried to entertain Keith.  Regretfully, his buddies told me that he leans towards FAT good looking women.  Mine had the looks but not the weight, though big butt Tess came close.  Never-the-less, I am sure that Keith returned to Kadena with a smile on his face, because of the good food, of course.

TOURIST OF THE MONTH

Meet Ernie Flynn from Runaway Bay, Gold Coast, Queensland.  Ernie is a regular traveler to the Philippines and on this trip he stayed at the Swiss Chalet because he read my review about it, and was very happy with the hospitality and room.  Ernie indicated that he likes to visit quiet bars, i.e., Roy's Pub and of course the Blue Boar Inn since he discovered that it is extremely quite there.  He is in transition to retirement and considering living here permanently.  I asked him about football and he told me that he likes the grudge matches between NSW and Queensland but that NSW usually loses.  He also sent his regards to his mates at the Runaway Bay Yacht Club and the Runaway Bay football Club and felt sorry for those lads that never get up off their duffs and make a run to Angeles City.  They do not know what they are missing.  Being a bit of a traveler Ernie sent me a few comments on his travels while here.  His opinions follow:

"Harry - Nice to have met you at the Blue Boar recently.  If you put me in as the Tourist of the Month for August, then you may want further info as to my travels etc., since arriving.  I traveled to Agoo, Baguio and now at Sunset Resort near San Fernando. Sunset Bay Resort is a great spot - for couples and families, and while not having the night life of Southern Palms, it is a far superior property.  Spider, the man in charge is actively upgrading all the rooms and tiling, furnishings etc., and is quite impressive for the charges of just 1100-1500 peso depending on the room.  I chose the bargain price of 1100 peso and it is a very, very nice room. I did not view the 800 peso room/s as these have no TV.  I recommend this resort to you.  I suspect Spider would "shout" you a room if you wanted to visit.  <aussie slang for "pay for".  Sunset Bay Resort restaurant is high standard and reasonably priced.  Beautifully prepared food and so well presented. (No I am not getting paid to say this.)   I thought the rooms at Southern Palms were tired and definitely in need of a freshen-up.  The room I took at Southern P, had a musty smell which would not go away.  Glad to leave.  

I WOULD IF I COULD

Her name is Racquel, 19 years old from Samar and she, at the time I took this picture was still a bit innocent.  No boyfriend and, of course, no kids.  She had been working at the Stinger only one month when I met her.  I got tired of looking at her, not because she was not good looking, or had a great tight body, but because she was in constant motion, like the battery bunnie.  She danced on stage, off stage and even moved when sitting.  I kept visualizing this perpetual motion in a more intimate setting and decided that at my age, I better sit down, drink my prune juice and just stick to writing about it.  She said she does not want to go with men older than 51, but then thought for a moment, smiled, and said that "exceptions could be made".  Her Email address is:  sweety1990_2005 at yahoo.com . 

Tom Garden sent me an Email asking if anyone had a copy of the AFRTS (Air Force Radio and TV Station Philippines) that covered the Mt. Pinatubo eruption and its aftermath.  If anyone has any info on this please contact Tom at gardenTOM51 at aol.com .  For some strange reason Tom wanted me to insert this next to my "I would if I could girl" so even though it does not belong here I try to keep my readers happy.

FINALLY, THEY ARE GONE

Once again the City sent it's bulldozers to remove the on again, off again "illegal" stalls on Real Street where the "Linda's Diner Fan club" liked to congregate and watch the girls go by and sip their low priced drinks.  This time it was said that the removal was in compliance with a favorable court ruling allowing the City to clean up the area.  Let us hope that this time the removal is permanent and, at least, temporarily, it can be used for parking.  At this time I do not know what the long term plans are for the use of this site but you can believe that I am trying to find out.  (on 28 Jul the City workers were constructing a fence around the perimeter of the site so it appears they are doing it right this time).

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAYOR LAZATIN

Last month I had the privilege of being invited to the birthday party for Angeles City Mayor Carmelo Lazatin at the soon to be opened Stotsenberg Hotel and Casino located within the Clark Economic Zone.  Needless to say the event was a very class act with many dignitaries, socialites, big business representatives and some not so important good old boys and, of course, one humble old "Horse" in attendance. The Hotel was beautiful and I am sure they will have a gala grand opening sometime in September and if the food is anything like that served for the Mayor's birthday I hope I can sneak in again.  The highlight of the evening was meeting the Mayor's cousin who I kept staring at for a long time because he looked so much like the Mayor himself.  This was the first time I saw him and after observing him for quite some time I finally went up and introduced myself and asked if he was related to the Mayor.  After over an hour of conversation I found this gentleman to be interesting, personable and just one hell of a nice guy.  He told me that he is mistaken for the Mayor quite often and that they used to play together as kids.  I am including the pictures of the Mayor and his cousin here so you can see the likeness again.  It was a very pleasurable evening, one I won't forget for quite some time.   

MO'S ANGELS

When I stopped by the Angel Witch Bar (formerly Illusions) I certainly saw a bunch of good looking angels on stage but I could not locate the witches.  The closest I came was meeting up with Mo but he appeared to be more of a devil than a witch.  Way back when Wolf ran the Illusions Club at this site it was always a popular place to go and most nights it was crowded.  Then Wolf sold out to a wanna be Mafia guy and the place went down hill.  Finally, the famous "Mo" took over and the place returned to its old popularity due to a much improved management/operating system.  For the old timers that rang the bell during the days of Wolf's ownership and may be wondering where their name plates are, worry not, they are located on the wall that leads to the bathrooms in the back.  Mo told me that he plans to clean them up and find a place to display them outside in the Club proper.  That is good news as they represent a bit of history.  I'm writing this now, a few months after I took these pictures so Mo does not forget what he told me. 

THE BRASS KNOB

It was my pleasure to meet Roy, Tess and their 19 year old daughter Samantha (SAM), the owners of the new Brass Knob Club that should be up and running by the time this article comes out in August.  Many people will remember Tess as one of the supervisors for Limited Edition and I know that Roy is known by many of the old timers in town.  Roy used to be involved with the Genesis, Love Birds, Sparky's, Queen of Hearts and the Super Head, names that will bring back many memories of the good old days.  Now he and Tess are putting all that experience into the Brass Knob and 18 rooms on two upper levels.  Additionally, thee will be a beer garden on the roof with a jacuzzi and bar-b-q that should be a very popular attraction.  Roy and Tess bubble over with energy and personality and a lot of that has been passed to their good looking daughter (sorry guys, she told me she already has a boyfriend).  The bar will feature comfortable seating and a good view of the stage and there will be a separate room for two pool tables.  The decor is not overwhelming, just classy and eye appealing.  The exterior of the building facade is fashionable and catches the eye as you pass.  It will be hard for anyone to pass on by without wanting to step inside.  The location is ideal, on Perimeter Road with easy parking along the street.  Local drinks will cost only P35 from 0800 to 1600 hrs and only P50 thereafter.  With Tess, Rob and Sam on board I predict that the Brass Know will be a huge success and I bet their rooms will be fully occupied at all times. 

RAIN RAIN GO AWAY

July was one hell of a wet month as two typhoons passed on the way to Taiwan and presented us with three weeks of heavy rain and a lot of flooding in the outlying provinces.  Angeles became soggy but never flooded and the bars kept on going.  But with all that rain and gray skies this Horse longed for a bit of sunshine.  Since I could not find it outside I figured it was time to write about the Clearwater Country Club and present the pictures I took during the sunny dry season.  Plus I was afraid if I did not write something this month Mark Lord might come and put a boot to my rear end. Now Mark has one of the sweetest jobs in Angeles City and he is not overworked so be sure to call him for more detailed information as I am providing only a few highlights of this very beautiful Country Club.  His number is cell phone 09209560322 and land lines are ph/fax (632)8445793, (63-45)5995623.  His email is marklord at yats-international.com . 

OK, now that I've gotten past all the contact numbers let me say that you have to see Clearwater to believe it.  There you are, driving around the base checking out the Duty Free Stores, looking at some of the hotels, enjoying the roads and a bit of a few but nothing spectacular.  Then you see a sign that says "Clearwater" and you wonder what the hell that is.  So you head along the roads that head for the defunct Expo (soon to be reborn - no religious pun intended) and you see another sign indicating Country Club.  Then you think, where the hell is it?  Suddenly, holy smokes, you find the entrance and you are amazed with the beauty.  You park, get out and arrange a tour and you can't believe your eyes - a white-sand beach and a lakeside swimming pool plus a lagoon-styled swimming hole by the family cove.  Then you look around and it is tranquil, and you sense a laid back lifestyle that makes you want to stay the whole day, every day.  Forget the bars, forget the girls, forget the hustle of Fields Ave but then this is only temporary insanity, who the hell can give all that up for any length of time?  But, there is so much to offer at Clearwater, world-class cuisines, fine wine, the Lakeside Bistro.  Besides swimming how about a lawn tennis court, a 18 hole grass miniature golfing link, beach volley ball.  On the lake you have kayaking, boating and fishing.  You can even try croquet and horseshoe throwing.  Spend a day or even spend a two week retreat but but at the very least try that one splendid day.  One place you have to check out is the Vin Cafe that features a beautiful garden setting which is ideal for banquets and functions.

OK already, what is the catch?  Well to fully utilize all these features, of course you have to become a member or be a guest of a member.  You didn't think you were going to get all this for free did you?  Now, visitors can walk in for one day for P1200 per adult that includes use of everything and includes a P500 F&B.  Kids under 12 pay P600 with a P250 F&B.  What does this mean?  Make damn sure you stay for lunch or dinner so you can use up that F&B money.  Once you have fallen in love with the place, of course you will want to be a member.  It will only cost you P150,000 for a lifetime membership if you are from Pampanga with a P30,000 down payment.  The balance must be paid at P10,000 a month.  A general membership (non-pampanga) will cost you P320,000, P100,000 down and P10,000 a month.  Ah, yes, there is monthly dues at P1500 a month which is fully consumable AND is cumulative for the whole year. So wait until Dec of each year and you can have a feast for free.  There are 17 rooms built for families, six to a room, luxury tents (yes, I said TENTS), family apartments and lodges around the lake. 

I checked out the Vin Cafe which you can access without any charge, it is accessed by using the road that goes to the Expo past the Parkson Duty Free Store.  I climbed those darn stairs to a Cafe that was absolutely terrific and a complete surprise.  I was treated like a VIP (they did not know I was a horse and a cheap one at that) and the waiters were so courteous.  It was so nice to sit there, enjoy the view and nibble on a sandwich and a drink.  It is open from 0700 - 2300 hrs and specialize in steaks.  In the evening one can enjoy rooftop dining.  Now I paid P203.50 for a Club Sandwich which is a bit more than I usually spend for lunch but it was a treat and well worth it for the experience of the service and the setting. 

OK, I am tired of writing about it, as I wrote at the beginning, contact Mark Lord, he gets paid to promote the place and the most I can expect is a free drink at the Yats Wine Club from Phillip.  By the way, Phillip is making some changes and additions to the Yats Wine Club, but that is another story. 

PASS THOSE REFRIED BEANS

Actually, I can't stand refried beans and all that green vomit looking stuff they call guacamole but then pass me the burritos, enchiladas, tacos, quesadillas (sp?), hot sauce, Spanish rice, etc. and I am one happy gringo.  Despite my funny taste or lack of knowledge of Mexican food this horse will welcome the entry of the El Mexicana Restaurant and Pancho's Bar at the far end of Perimeter Road, just past the E Z Riders Club and eatery which is just past the closed Cyber Care building.  This restaurant/bar is enormous with seating for 50 diners on one side, 50 on the other and a bar down the middle.  It is scheduled for a 1 Sep opening and yes, two non-Mexicans are running it, Barry and Nigel.  Barry's wife (Filipina), who is a food service manager in the States will be coming over to train the staff and make sure that service and quality of food meets a very high standard.  Spices will be brought in from the States but other ingredients will be locally purchased and the food will be Mexican style based on what they can obtain here.  They realize that it fall a bit short of what they could prepare in the States but Barry tells me that it will be pretty darn close to the real thing.  Guess we will find out on 1 Sep. 

BAMBINO'S

Since I wrote about Mexican food, let me mention one of my favorite foods, Italian and one of the best places to enjoy it, Bambino's Restaurant on Perimeter Road.  I am guilty of not having eaten there is a very long time and last month I decided to drop in for lunch.  I thoroughly enjoyed my meal and the company of owner Sal who joined me at my table.  For the life of me I could not figure out why I stayed away so long but I will correct that and make sure to include this restaurant as one of my regular luncheon stops.  If Priscilla the Horse is nice to me I may even take her there for dinner, and I will even pay instead of her doing so.  The food is excellent, the menu, extensive, service good and the prices very reasonable.  That is my two cents worth and I'll live with it, at least for this month!

THE BIRTHDAY BLAST

Richard the "Music Master" had his 41st birthday party at the Stinger last month with the help of personable host "Tango".  It was a well attended fun evening and Richard looked great with his wife Lisa and his young daughter Ami.  The Stinger is a Club that I have not had the chance to check out in a while and I noticed that they had installed a new sound and light systems, installed by Richard, of course and a job well done.  What I liked about the Stinger is that had a large representation of some very good looking dancers and the music was kept at a reasonable level.  I had a San Miguel light which is unusual for me and Richard had to teach me how to drink out of the bottle without the damn beer fizzing out of the bottle.  I have continued to practice!  It was a pleasure to see Gerard in attendance along with his lovely wife and son Gerard Jr.  What an impressive young man he is and for sure he has a great future in front of him.  Enough said, enjoy the pictures.

LIVING IN STYLE

Country Club living has come to Angeles City.  Imagine being able to own a beautiful duplex home, penthouse suite or a condominium at the Angeles City Sports and Country Club   These homes are designed by the world renowned Palafox Associates and believe me, these units will be of the highest quality construction, equal or surpassing the most luxurious housing built anywhere in the Philippines.  Lake shore?  Forget it, this is where the wise investor will want to live. Construction has not even started yet many units have been reserved and some even paid for in full.  Now, this horse in not in the sales business and all I could afford to do is look in envy at a location that I would love to live in, but damn, horses just don't fit in too well.  So why am I so excited about this development.  For a number of reasons.  First off, I and many others have been waiting for so many years to see something happen at Greenlands, Hidden Vale and now the Angeles City Sports and Country Club that would justify its existence and live up to its potential.  Where the previous owners fell short, the new owners, spearheaded by the dynamic Richard Agnew has brought new life to this resort.  He has put his reputation and money on the line to bring a life style to this area that will be unsurpassed in any other location in this area.  The homes that will be built along with the improved facilities and environment will benefit not only home owners but those long time and new members that have been with this Club since the beginning.  By clicking on the picture above or one of the links you will be able to access the full advertising layout for this development that will give you all the details you need.  Believe it or not, even before any ground breaking, units have been reserved with down-payments and two or three have already been paid for in full.  Only Richard Agnew could command such faith and loyalty because the investors know he will deliver on what he has promised. (On 27 Jul I was informed that the Condo plans were revised to go for 10 stories instead of five.  That will be one hell of a project with 200 units now).  

Getting these pictures in this month taught this computer retard a new lesson.  I learned how to convert pictures with CMYK color to RGB color so they can be accepted in front page.  Man, we struggled for two nights (well, Chuck did) and then one afternoon after nearly giving up we called a friend, Tom Aquino, that does this stuff for a living and he told us, "oh yeah, it is a simple procedure using adobe photo shop".  He was right, it was simple and for sure, I was grateful for the help.  Needless to say, I wrote down the instructions because my memory is not worth a hoot.