It is that time of the year for candy, flowers and dinners.  Some folks were asking if they had a Valentine's Day in the Philippines.  I don't know about the rest of the PI but in Angeles City you better believe they do.  Would you think that for one minute the bars and restaurants would pass up any opportunity to make some extra money?  Business is business and it is kind of nice to be able to enjoy such a popular day with your favorite lady.  January was an interesting month with of couple of enterprises being raided for various reasons, a push initiated by the Angeles Clarkfield Tourism Association (ACTA) to reduce the number of street kids, rugby boys and snatchers from Fields Ave and everyone dealing with the fluctuating Peso exchange rate.  As I write this, the rate is P52.70 to the dollar and it appears that it may inch up to P53 to the dollar by the end of the month.  The political situation remains interesting as various sources with the opposition tell me that they do not think President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo will be able to stay in office beyond 06.  Of course some told me she would be out in 05 and that did not happen.  My question, of course, is - who the hell is qualified to replace her?  The one good thing about the rumors and speculation is that the peso rate to the dollar depreciates accordingly and that is good for those earning dollars. Last month I had the opportunity to meet Congressman "Blue Boy" Nepomuceno and his brother Barangay Captain Robin Nepomuceno and I was able to get the positive vibe that "Blue Boy" will be running for Mayor of Angeles City and that they do not expect much opposition.  Without saying too much I could sense that "Blue Boy" has an agenda for changes in Angeles City if he wins and that he appears to want to lean towards more family attractions in the City as well as within the Economic Zone.  No doubt the transition from the Lazatin reign to the Nepo reign or any other leadership in Angeles City should be very interesting.  By the way, I had to report for my annual alien registration requirement at Immigration last month and pay my P310.  All I had to take was my new "I" Card that does not help me at all at the Airport when leaving the country but I was surprised to see that they did use my card for my registration.  They downloaded my personal information from the data on my card and printed a form, then I went to another desk to pay and they zapped out a computer receipt and it was a painless exercise.  They have expanded the 7th Street Immigration office and added more personnel.  On the afternoon I went it was very crowded, more so than in the previous 25 years I have been registering and there were a bunch of people applying for extended visas.  Business was booming and I was, for the first time, issued a number and waited for my call to action.  I did ask about what would happen when my "I" card expired in March and I was given a number to call in Manila because they had no idea.  A couple of days later, I was talking to Jim Boyd and he told me that he had information that it appeared that those with "I" cards would have them automatically extended for one more year.  He is waiting for further clarification on that and whether the fee of $50 would be waived for the extension.  The reason for this is because, no surprise here, they still do not have their act together at the Airport since they have not obtained the necessary equipment to implement any new procedures using the "I" card. I have to greet Tom Langey who is reading this column each month in Suzhou China and also Bill Stevens in Melbourne, Australia who was just introduced to this column last month.  Old Big Dog and the Road Dawgs will be in town for their annual Super Bowl as well as a few of their follow on parties.  Well, lets see what else I can write about - happy reading folks.

TIDBITS

I've heard that that the owner of Bananitas Club has been in hiding since it was raided by DSWD and elements of the NBI.  During the raid it was discovered that two of the entertainers were underage (17 years old) and they were "rescured" by the DSWD.  The Mamasan was arrested and is still in jail as of this writing 28 Jan 06.  A source told me that the owner now wants to sell the Club but is asking the ridiculous price of $250,000 but he offered $80,000.  There is still a big question as to the viability of paying any large amount as he was told the lease is on a yearly basis.  The lease holder told him that "no problem, the landlord renews it every year without question".  It is kind of hard to depend on such an arrangement but lets see what develops.  Again, it is hard to sympathize with the owner or the Mamasan since it has been stressed by the Mayor and ACTA officials that no underage girls should be working in the Clubs and only a few weeks ago, after meetings at City Hall, it was announced that the Mamasans would be held accountable.  They are on the front line of hiring these girls.  The owner voluntarily closed the doors to the Club and has hired Attorney Willie Rivera for legal assistance. 

The RSL Committee was happy to have a good start on their fund raising activities for the Australia Day festivities.  The "Bell Ring" at the Lollipop raised P91,000, a record!  The previous high was P56,000 and Mo credits this big jump to the participation of a large number of Yanks in attendance that gave their all for charity. 

It appears that one of my favorite places, Sub-delicious, run by Tom and Irene was subjected to the rumor mill.  Someone told me that they had closed the Sports Bar on the second floor and that soon they would offer only take out food and deliveries.  Immediately I called Irene, Tom's number one in charge, and she told me this was absolutely not true.  The Sports Bar is closed from 0600 to 1500 hours only for cleaning (must be the cleanest bar in town, 9 hours of cleaning every day) and for sure the restaurant will remain open with full menu 24 hours a day.  Irene indicated that they are doing well and have made a few renovations downstairs as well as the Sports Bar.  It is too late for me to take any pictures but next month I will trot on down and put on the feed bag and share a laugh with Irene.  By the way, Irene emphatically told me that business is GOOD!   Like they say in Rotary "Is it the Truth?"

Come on Bourbon Street - hang in there!  Recently my big Horse ears picked up vibes that the restaurant is still off to a slow start.  This is one restaurant that has to stay open!  It certainly takes time for a new restaurant to become known and start to pull in a customer base that will lead to operating in the black and I am sure that this will happen.  Many hope that Mr. Kelly is in for the long run and will not run out of patience as Bourbon Street, for sure,  will start to pull in those diners seeking fine food, a great atmosphere and prices that are not that unreasonable.  This old horse will return soon because Harro has assured me that they now offer a proper shrimp cocktail sauce.  Come on folks, when you get those hunger pangs and you want a nice place to eat, visit the Bourbon St. Restaurant.  (Eh, this is NOT a paid advertisement but a free coke with my meal would be acceptable - only kidding - sort of).

Gerard is at it again!   I really admire this guy, he is dynamic, inventive, and one hell of a businessman.  On top of all that, he is a nice guy to talk to and his low key friendly manner deceptively hides his energies and innovativeness.  His latest venture, a seven story, five star hotel with swimming pool that will rise on Fields Ave stretching from next to the Chic & Rib all the way to MacArthur Ave.  This boggles the mind and it is hard for me to imagine.  The Hotel will offer 174 rooms and I bet will offer luxury found in only a couple hotels here in town.  Gerard usually builds, and then turns over for someone else to run, maybe, in this case, could it be Richard Agnew?  One thing for sure, this project will transform that unsightly section of Fields Ave into a tourist attraction. 

Speaking of unsightly -   sure with that atrocious looking Galleon Building on Perimeter Road, near the VFW, would be torn down and some nice building put up.  But, alas, it is still tied up in court with a hearing scheduled last 27 Jan but, of course, postponed.  The protagonists just plain do not like each other and any settlement still seems like a long way off.  I am taking no sides here as both parties have their sides to address, but my goodness, please guys, some year, settle this thing.

Super Bowl viewing at Mo's place -   two big TV screens with plenty of room, food, drinks and noise.  Now, if you want a quiet place to watch the super bowl try the Blue Boar Inn at the Hotel La Casa - we have a small screen, big sound, great breakfast at low prices and during the game, all local drinks at P30.  The first customer in the door gets his drinks at P25.  This is easy to offer as no one goes to the Blue Boar in the morning, they all go to the VFW and this old Horse gets to watch the game in quiet solitude.

For those that don't know there is a discount warehouse store near Angeles City named "MAKRO" that is pretty popular as they offer, at times, some pretty good bargains.  Recently the management put an ad in the Sun-Star advertising a big sale that included some Chinese brand 29" and 21" cable ready TV's for P6,000 and P3,000 respectively.  I asked Priscilla to trot on over there with P6,000 to buy two 21" sets on the morning the sale was to start (27 Jan) and when they got there there was no stock except for four that were defective.  The management gave her some story about so many people bought them the previous day at the regular price that the stock was depleted.  What a crock of horseshit that was!  She was a bit upset and when she got back to the stable and told me I called the management and complained about false advertising, fabricating, etc. and despite my negative comments they were pretty nice about it and told me that they would notify me when they got the sets in again.  I told them that they should have a waiting list and that those on it would be authorized to purchase at the promotion price offered.  They agreed and I figured that's it, won't hear from them again.  But, the next day, a manager called Priscilla and told her that they expect to receive another shipment next month and they would call us.  You know, somehow I believe the guy and if he comes through I will write about it here.  What do you think my chances are

On Sunday, 29 Jan I managed to make it to the last Australia Day big event for this year, the Fields Ave street festival and curry cook-off.  There were less booths and entries this year but one did not have to walk as far to enjoy the fun and to taste all the various curry flavors.  After the judges had their samples and went off to decide the winners the public was free to grab a cup and do their own tasting.  After tasting most of flavors I found that I liked the entry from the Bali Hai gang from La Union.  I did not realize they were the defending champions but I mentioned to many folks that I thought they were number one.  Lo and behold, the judges agreed with me and declared them the Champions of 06 as well as winning the "bumhummer" award as well (the hottest).  I am only inserting one picture now because I have so many in this column already but will add the other pictures in the March issue.

Jimbo, from Stampede informed me that some of the Perimeter bars are joining together to have their own version of the Doghouse, SOB outings every Monday evening starting in Feb.  I believe, so far, the have Limited Edition, Stampede, T-Times and a few others with the kick-off meeting on 6 Feb at Limited Edition.  They are calling this "the Perimeter Bars Exposed".  I believe the price will be P350 per person with snacks and it will be a closed door event.    For what it is worth, the Knights of the Brown Ring (AH Club) will be meeting on 4 Feb at noon and the Honey Ko ladies will be on hand to entertain you this month.

As many of you might know, T-Times has been involved in a court case with the previous owner but that has finally been settled and the electricity, finally, will be restored and the generator can have a bit of a rest. 

CLARK FLIES HIGH IN THE YEAR OF THE DOG

(I am reprinting this publicity notice I received from the DOT office for the readers of this column.  If you are planning to be in town during the time of this event try not to miss it.  it has become a popular yearly event and each year I promise myself that I will watch the early morning take off; regretfully, each year I opt for the 5 PM landing instead.  It is interesting to see the balloons and enjoy the various events but I always felt that there should be more to do during the day and had hoped that they would add a carnival to the area as well, featuring various rides and games.  The weather is perfect at this time of the year, not too hot, no rain and the evenings are absolutely perfect.  Put this one on you calendar of events!)

In the West, Dog is man's best friend. In Clark, it's a hot- air balloon!

Yes, the 10th Philippine International Hot-Air Balloon Fiesta is taking place on February 9 - 12, 2006 at Omni Aviation Complex, Clark, Pampanga with the biggest balloon shaped like a giant puppy from Japan playing the lead role in ushering in the Year of the Dog.

This was the announcement made by Regional Director Ronaldo Tiotuico of the Department of Tourism - Region III in a press statement issued recently.

Tiotuico said that the hot air balloon club led by Capt. Joy Roa of Air Ads, Inc., the lead organizer of the most colorful air- sporting event in the country, is expected to lure some 24 balloons from as far away as countries like Finland, Sweden, United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, and the United States.

As in the past, the 'newspaper' balloon will take center stage in tandem with the 'dog' balloon. They are expected to warm the hearts of thousands of spectators with their unique architecture and color.

Among the special air-sporting events lined up during the festival include sky diving cum flag jump (pilot carries with him our national colors on the way down), ultra-light flying, aerobatic precision flying, light airplane rally, helicopter flight demo, hang gliding, remote-controlled aeromodellers, including kite flying and dog show.

The event will feature the enduring support from the Angeles City Four wheelers Club led by its President, Reynaldo Liwanag, whose members continue to provide search and rescue operation for the balloons.

The balloon fiesta was first organized in 1994 by then DOT Secretary Mina Gabor three years following the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo. Gabor proposed the holding of a colorful event in Pampanga to give people an opportunity to celebrate and have reason to rise from the ashes in spite of the devastation brought about by the upheaval. Since then, the project was well sustained by both DOT and Clark Development Corp. until in 1998 when the project was turned over to the Hot Air Balloon Club for better management and sustainability.

Inasmuch as balloons fly whenever the wind is calm, spectators are strongly advised to rise early in the morning at 5:00 a.m. and then again at 5:00 p.m. to witness the fly-out and fly-in at the launch site. Entrance fee to the launch site is P100 for adults and children including students.

The festival is a joint project of the Hot Air Balloon Club of the Philippines, Clark Development Corporation, Clark International Airport Corporation, 600th Air Base Wing (PAF), Air Transportation Office, and the Department of Tourism. United Parcel Service (UTP) is the event co-presenter.

As the Dog's mantra goes 'Live right, look out for the little people and fight injustice whenever possible,' Clark says rise up early to watch the most spectacular event of the century in the Year of the Dog!

For further information, visit www.philballoonfest.com or www.wowluzoncentral.com

OK, here we go again - yes, I lifted this from the AC Board because of its "entertainment value" and the many various responses that this subject received - and the fact that there are many more guys out there that can follow in the footsteps of "Steve".  As usual my comments will be in itallics.

"Not to assume everyone really cares about my life, well, I figure I got at least a few fans out there. he he he

But here's an update for those who find my continuing "wife hunting" saga entertaining. ....... (eh, actually, rediculous)

Well fellas, things have changed since my last post of my plans to return to AC. This girl who has been after me since my first trip to the Phils, (now now, would a Filipina REALLY chase after a guy?) really won me over with her endearing letter to me, and her continued frienship. I always just considered her a friend, and at 31 years old, I guess she was not in the age range I thought i really wanted. (wonder what that was, 18 to 21?)  But she really showed me what kind of girl she is in her letters, a brief sample of which is below:

"Now Darling, i DARE you. ------- why you dont try me to be your girlfriend and build a brand new relationship. Who knows! that were meant to be.. (yeah, I know, it was fate, written in the cards, love at first sight, etc.)
We've been known for 3 yrs.. I know what you have been through with your previous relationship with those young age.........So, why did you not try we'd us?? ------in fact, im matured in terms of a relationship. (hey lady, because he kept trying for the young ones and "maturity" did not interest him)  If i could only say "will you marry me steve"., i will say it to you but only the guys would say that words 'coz they are the one who handle and build a family and with the help of wife to be or girl.. (Ah, go ahead and say it anyway)

Dear, back your confident and trust to us, specially to me.. You know that i been still here for you for a long time.. And i think, its God's well 'coz years past and so many things happened each one of us, bad times and good times still we meet here in a right time.. Would you imagine! Maybe this is our time now...so, open your heart for a new chapter of your life and new relationship. Lets start of ours.. (I'm trying to remember which movie I heard these lines - actually there were more than one)
Dear, i had lot more to say about myself but maybe i keep you bored with this letter.. BUT im still hoping that this letter will find a warmer welcome and be given its due consideration.." (After three years what more is there to say, and "due consideration" - I love that!

Some guys will say how inappropriate it might be to post personal letters, but I disagree. (Hey, no problem, I sent a copy to "Comedy Central")  This is only a brief sampling of her first one to me. Nothing in that letter I am posting here is all that drastic or potentially embarrassing. (Depends how you look at it)  Anyway, I never got such mature type of letters from the young girls I almost married. (Gee, I wonder why an 18 year old girl with very little education could not write a "mature" letter)  This really struck me in a big way. And besides, I would be very afraid of trying to marry a young girl again. I really think I did not realize how hard it might be for a young girl to truly desire marriage at such a young age. (Especially to someone so old?)  People here kept on saying it must have been something about me , but truly, it was not that. (Hee-Hee, I bet!)  The girls just slowly loss their excitement and momentum for the idea. (Does that mean they gave up sex?)

Anyways, since this would be my 3rd fiance visa request in 2 years, I am afraid of what the immigration folks might think. (Guess what, one year in jail and $50,000 fine)  I figure if I just marry her and have all the wedding pics etc, there will be no doubts in their minds of the legitimacy this time. (Marry her on 1 April)  Besides, the Spousal visa is taking about 1 year and 3 months compared to the fiance visa running at 12 months. Not a whole lot of difference. Lastly, I know it will be more special to her to marry there in front of her family in Tacloban/Samar than here. (Absolutely right, you can then pay all expenses and then start construction on the addition to their house) Weddings are more special for the girl than the man anyways,its her day, so why not sweat out the grime and heat and let her have her big day in Tacloban as best as possible. WHich reminds me, last time when staying at the leyte park,supposedly the best hotel there, I threw up from food posioning even though I thought I was very careful. God I hope it dont happen again. It only lasted a few hours thank god, I was lucky. (Those young girls might not write well but they know how to add goodies to your food).

Lastly, I have not met her yet, (well, she says I did meet her once in manila but I dont recall, I was meeting several girls back then)but based on what I have found about her, the way she thinks, and how badly she wants a husband and family(I suppose 31 yrs old, especially in an asian country is considered an old maid LOL)and seeing her personality come through on the yahoo cam to cam chats, Id say its gonna take a whole lot for me to consider changing my mind. (you absolutely cannot be serious!)  She is so funny and has a positive attitude and a bubbly personality. She is always smiling, (What desperate lady doesn't when talking to a sucker on the web cam!) she's so perfect. (you have never met this lady, how do you know what she is like 24 hours a day, seven days a week)  I just feel 100% sure about her. I feel I have fallen in love this time as opposed to just a caring type of love I had with the first two younger girls. This one is a sure bet, unlike the other two. (Sure!  Want to bet?)

And no, there will be no mongering for steve55 this time. She knows I had done some of that(dont think she knows how much of it though(LOL)), and jokingly says she will keep me in her sights at all times. (OK, first warning sign here, have you ever heard the saying about "being under the thumb of a Visayan?  It can apply to any lady in the Philippines if you allow it)  She's a good girl and a smart one too. (I guess you based that on her correctly written letters)  And she does have a college degree, though she admits, the coleege education she got in tacloban(or wherever out there) is not really up to par. (That is obvious and I think she slept through a few classes)  Oh, and my mother only said "at least this one wont be a burden"(LOL) She further stated, "the other 2 girls looked like 'lost babes' in the woods". While on the other hand, this one has got some spunk and charisma to her. (Sure Mom, obviously more than your son has)

Her pic:
PS-Pls, no comments about how ungentlemenly it is to post her pic or small portion of her letter on a public forum or monger board. No one here knows her and never will, and knowing her, she wouldnt care even if she knew. She is so damn easy going and positive. Its not her nature to complain. (That will change six months after you marry her)  Well, wasn't that interesting!  Please, whatever your name is, could you please invite us all to your wedding so we can meet this perfect lady that is an expert on Yahoo Chats, so smart and very mature and I hope she does not have a younger sister to distract you from your mission. 

The comments below were sent to me via Email from a lad staying at the Oasis Hotel Compound, named Lawrence and his observations were right on and reinforces my arguments why it is advantageous to live in Angeles City.  I also welcome the opportunity to answer on this forum his question about ONA Hospital.

Harry the Horse,

What follows is another subject worthy of discussion:

"I don't live in the PI, but I have made about 15-20 trips to AC since 1999 and have noticed something interesting.

Have any of you noticed how so many of the long time ex-pat residents of AC seems so unfriendly and just plain unhappy? You can be walking down the street while approaching one of these guys, and they won't even make eye contact with you as you pass by them. If you say something like "Goodmorning" or just a "Hello", you more than likely won't get a response back.

You can usually pick these guys out in a bar too. They will be the customers that are not smiling. It seems to me they just don't trust anyone. Maybe it's something about living in a foreign country for a long period of time that makes them this way. Maybe it's from fighting the "system" for just too long ... I really don't know, but many of these guys generally appear to be unhappy and pretty withdrawn unless they really know you well. I don't for a minute believe that the majority of these guys were like this when they first came to the PI, but certainly, many of them change for the worse over time.

I just call it "Ex-Pat Burnout", and there are a lot of them in AC.

Just wondering if any of you folks have noticed this too?

Disclaimer: Before any of you ex-pats jump down my throat, I am not saying that [ALL] ex-pats are an unfriendly bunch ... but, many do seem to be outwardly not very happy or friendly by any stretch of the imagination.

Just a thought

BURNED OUT EXPATS - Those words jumped out at me after I read the above item forwarded to me by a friend.  It bothered me because of the perception about long time resident Expats living here in Angeles City from a visitor that has never lived here.  I appreciate his disclaimer and no way am I going to jump down his throat.  This is my 25th year living in Angeles City, 1977 to 1981 (Active Duty) and from Jan 85 to present and I have always felt that the Expat community consists of a whole lot of friendly folks with just your average number of cranks, drunks and assholes that can be found in any small community throughout the world.  As I walk the streets of the town I do not see too many unhappy Expats but then maybe I have not been looking for them.  Have I taken this friendliness I see for granted and not taken the time to really pay attention?  This item had many pages of responses on the AC Message board both defending the perception of the writer and also those disagreeing and even others that offered excuses for the unfriendliness.  I can see now that I have to pay more attention to the Expats that live here and start trying to change their image.  The problem is that many of them are so damn happy and enjoy their life here so much that they grow tired of smiling and just try to let their jaw muscles relax.  This makes them look cranky.  They love strangers and enjoy meeting them, especially if they will buy a drink during any conversation but after listening to the same questions from so many over the years that one gets to a point that they hope that stranger will approach someone else.  Maybe the writer ventured into Garfields one night and saw that the regulars were gathered in their special tight groups and did not look like they were open to conversations with an "outsider".  This is a misconception! At Garfields you just have try harder to fit in.  Start off sitting at the bar, not one of the tables, be patient, kid with the waitresses, have a drink or two then jump on the opportunity to talk to one of the regulars, buy him a drink and then lo and behold, it is like a domino effect.  Pretty soon you are in the middle of all the friendliness you can handle and so many free drink chips in front of you that you wish you had never opened your mouth in the first place. Most of us are not "burned out", we are just getting old and stuck in our ways and some of the old guys in their 70's that are married to ladies in their 20's are just too tired to talk and so much of their money has to go for diapers. Yes, we Expats really are friendly but for the majority of us that grew up watching Howdy Doody, well, you just have to jump start our batteries.  My advice to the frequent visitor, "try a little harder" or just move here and join all the other "cranky men".    

Guess it is time bid Capt Jack McDonald a farewell from the Philippine International Hospital (PIH) as his resignation was effective on 31 Jan.  Jack has assured me that his replacement is a capable replacement and I can bet that he will have a big task in front of him.  This Horse has enjoyed a good relationship with Capt Jack except for a few times when he disagreed with what I wrote about PIH but I have the highest respect for this man that worked his ass off to serve the Expat community in Angeles City and help create a medical system sorely needed in this area.  Regretfully, during the last year he has had to try and cope with Tricare problems that seem nearly impossible to fix.  Even as late as Jan 06 Tricare officials started rejecting billings for an entirely new set of requirements.  It seems that no matter what efforts are being made to meet official requirements, Tricare officials are determined to find new obstacles to put in place.  Jack, you deserve a break and I hope your son gets accepted into the school in the States you are applying for and that you do not have to delay your move Stateside.  You will be missed at PIH and a few watering holes on Perimeter Road. 

I WOULD IF I COULD 

OK guys, feast your eyes on Annie Diaz, a very charming, educated lady of 34 years that men should be fighting over.  Quite often, I like to feature a lady that does not work in any Club and who many visitors would never get a chance to meet.  Presently Annie is the secretary of the Angeles Clarkfield Tourism Association, Inc. (ACTA) and sharing a space at the the Tourist Police office on Fields Ave.  She is a college graduate with a BS in English, has two sisters, one brother and lives in Dau.  Annie is hard working, enjoys dancing, going to the movies and concerts, likes cooking and loves to relax with a good book.  I do believe 34 is the ideal age for some of the older lads visiting here who would love to settle down with a good woman.  This is a lady that would be an asset if taken to the States, Australia or some other country rather than an anchor around one's neck.  I told Annie that I hope she does not meet that special guy so she will stay on as secretary of the ACTA for many years.  If you would like to Email Annie write to whannieh@yahoo.com and if anyone marries her I get a free meal at the reception. 

THE FIRST TO GO

And so it begins - the demolition of the East side of A. Santos Street.  The first to go was Caddy Shack and the others will begin to disappear on 15 Jan.  Caddy Shack has already moved its operation West on Perimeter Road and took over what used to be Pecos Petes.  Naturally, they had to do a complete renovation as that old bar that has been another landmark for many years really needed to be gutted and given a complete facelift.  They should be open for business this month.  The other Clubs are scampering for new locations and Mo told me that the barbershop may move into Mo's place.  The Orchid Inn folks also own three buildings on the West side of A. Santos that includes Honky Tonk and the two clubs on either side of him.  Ken Edwards will be able to hang on for a while longer as Ron W. and company have their hands full putting up their new building.  Ken might be able to put off eviction for one year or so but without a lease and will operate only until the Orchid Inn lads are ready to take over.  Now, Ken is the only expat active on that side of the street and when the two Filipino owners of the other establishments are forced out they may not take it too kindly but lets hope that they do not take it out on Ken.  I wonder how long it will take before the entire image of Santos Street is changed and what we see today will just be a memory for the old timers?

NOT JUST SHAWARMA 

When I want a quick snack and am on Fields Ave I always pop in to the Shawarma Snack Bar to gulp down one or two Shawarmas and I feel just right.  Last month I their chicken salona with plain rice and was pleasantly surprised.  For only P65 I had a very tasty meal and still under P100 when I ordered a coke with it.  The next time I will try their chicken Kabsah with Boryani rice (P65 plus P35 for the special rice).  The reason I am mentioning this is because normally, I only think of buying a shawarma when there and resisted anything different, but this time my curiosity got the better of me and I am glad that I did.  Fortunately they open a bit earlier than they used to, 1330 to 0330 but on Sundays they open at 1500 hrs.  If you pop in and try their special dishes I think you will find yourself returning for more on another day. 

50 YEARS AND STILL RUNNING

I took this picture so long ago that I nearly forgot about it.  Towards the back of the table, the lad in the yellow shirt, Jacko, from England celebrated his birthday with friends at the Phoenix Hotel.  I have known this man for many years now and he has attended a few of my birthday parties but it gave me much pleasure to see him hit that cool age of 50, just a few years shy of senior citizen status.  Jacko is a perfect example of a free spirit, still single and still running the ladies, so much so that he doesn't have to leave his apartment in Santa Maria, they just knock on his door in the morning, afternoon and evenings, before work, after work and so on.  He runs the hash all the time to keep in shape and each year, for a few months, goes back to England to drive a truck in order to regain his strength and to earn a few quid.  Jacko, luv ya baby, welcome to the older generation!

CHOICES FROM JAMES 

I was talking with Richard Agnew in Molly Malones at the very beginning of January when I met the manager of the Blue Nile Executive Club, James, and he told me that he had the most beautiful looking girls in town and that could outdo my "I would if I could" ladies.  OK, I admit that my choices are not always the most beautiful but I am willing to take take pictures of beautiful ladies any time a manager will pick them out and assist in the photo shoot.  In this case, I did meet James one evening at the Blue Nile Executive room and enjoyed putting my camera to this difficult task.  I must admit that there were certainly many attractive ladies on hand, a couple I picked out while waiting for James and those he selected plus many more floating around.  Now, there were some there that did not really make the grade but why be fussy.  Generally speaking, James was right on and to tell the truth, what I enjoyed the most was the ride on the stage that goes up and down.  James realized that I do not do stairs all that well and, literally, provided me with a lift.  Gosh, I hated being in the middle of all those dancers, so much so, that I am trying to find an excuse to do it again.  So, here are the choices from James plus two from me - the two sitting down.  Enjoy!

TOURISTS OF THE MONTH PICTURES

There are times I forget what I am doing and find that I have to catch up on oversights.  For some reason, I kept forgetting I had found my tourist of the month and ended up with three different people.  Now, I could keep one for Feb, one for Mar and one for Apr and save myself some time, but they might be looking for their pictures in Feb.  What to do?  Ah hell, why not just put all three in this month and look for another one in March - that was my decision and I will live with it.  So, first one is Rob Bland, from Rushden North Hamptonshire and I caught him at the Roadhouse with lovely 21 year old Arlene.  This was Rob's second visit to AC and he told me he can't wait for number three.  Number 2 is Leif Nillsson, from Alvsbyn, Sweden who tries to come here every year to get away from the winter cold temperatures in his home town.  Leif has been visiting here for many years and always stays at his second home, the Hotel La Casa and he has become part of our family at the La Casa.  In this photo I tried to capture the fine assets of the lady he was with and who helped to warm up his cold aging bones.  Leif thoroughly enjoys every day of his visits to Angeles City but next year plans to spend a week in Thailand as well.  It sure beats ice-fishing, right Leif?  Number three is a lad I met at the Australian Day Beauty Contest at the Wild Orchid Resort.  His name, Henry Solley, from Tasmania, Australia and this was his first trip to Angeles City.  He is semi-retired and was staying at the Sunset Gardens Hotel.  When asked which Club in town was his favorite, he hesitated, thought about it and answered "Everyone one I've been in"!  Henry is single and like many others before him wants to return here as soon as possible.  Could it be that those Australian women just don't catch his fancy anymore?  Go on with you Henry, you old Tasmanian Devil you ----. 

A FLASHER? 

Is there a bar in town that is so short of girls that they have to dig to the bottom of the barrel to come up with something this bad?  Could it be that with all this emphasis on not employing underage girls in the Clubs that there is a new choice of dancers?  Has this dancer been properly licensed?  Does this dancer get a weekly smear test?  Can this dancer be cited for having one nasty ass?  Is there anyone out there that can identify this ass as the Immigration folks, for health reasons, want to deport this individual as soon as possible?  But, all is not lost, there is a Club on Perimeter road that is willing to pay big money for this exotic dancer to make an appearance but only after the legs have been shaved. 

THAT'S BETTER 

Now, it would not be nice of me to just leave the readers with that ugly view above so lets see if this is better.  The friendly ladies of Matrix Brawn, on Perimeter Road, volunteered to present a far better image.  I do believe this is a big improvement, after all, no hair!

FIRE SALE

The Grand Duty Free on Clark had not been doing much business for over a year now so I do not think the fire that gutted it last month was entirely unwelcome except for the Bank of the Philippines personnel who shared the building.  We hope that it won't be too long before CDC folks tear down what is left of the building instead of leaving it there to attract garbage, rats and all those things that ain't so nice. 

THE SHOW MUST GO ON

We had an unusual January in that there were a few days that we experienced heavy rains.  On one of those days the annual RSL Australian Day Beauty Contest was scheduled at the Wild Orchid Resort and it was to be an outdoor event.  Despite the wet conditions the management and organizers of the contest did a fantastic job in adapting to conditions by holding it indoors.  In fact, I believe this surpassed, in quality, previous events and the rains did not keep anyone away (Except for John Bee of Go2Phil) as a full house was on hand to cheer the contestants on.  For the third year, Priscilla was a judge and she agreed with me that the ladies this year were an improvement on previous years.  They all looked good in their bathing suits and some of the gowns were truly outstanding.  Peter O'Donnell did his usual good job as MC and nearly lost his voice by the time he got to the auction.  Some of the winners were Stephanie, from Coconut Grove Hotel in La Union, best in swimwear; Ara, Pink Lady, best in evening gown, sponsored by Wild Orchid Resort; Vanessa, 2nd runner-up from Dirty Duck; Rya, 1st Runner-up, from Pink Lady, sponsored by Fiesta Garden Hotel; Miss Australia 2006, Jane, from Pink Lady, sponsored by Roy's Pub and Restaurant.  SeaAir was one of the major sponsors as first prize was P10,000 plus a return trip to Boracay with a paying companion.  Second place was worth P5,000 and third was P3,000.  Best of evening wear and swimwear selections were awarded P3,000 each with total cash awards P10,000 more than last year.  All in all it was a fine evening with fine food, good music, and beautiful women.  This is an annual event to kick off the week long festivities organized by the RSL to raise funds for charity as well as their club.  It takes a lot of work (with a lot of help from the Angeles City Businessmen's Club members) requiring many months of preparation and the efforts of all the volunteers is noteworthy.  If you missed it this year, try not to do so in Jan 07.  By the way, in addition to all the charm and loveliness on hand one stand out guest, Ms Ann Curtis added even more beauty to the event by attending for the second year in a row.  Now Priscilla has two pictures with her, me, none.  I'll try again next year. 

HIGH BIDDERS

One of the highlights at the Miss Australia Day Beauty Contest was the auction for beautiful jewelry from Bangkok, Thailand donated by Phillip Terrell, for the second year in a row.  Phillip is a humanitarian that does not hesitate to put out his own money for charitable causes and each year he wants the auction to be a success as he knows the money goes to good causes.  Two items were put up for bid and the two highest bidders after heavy active bidding from various personnel were Bob Young, with Evelyn and Dean Millar, from Melbourne, in the company of lovely Cristy.  Each ended up with winning bids of P25,000 each enabling the RSL to add P50,000 to their charity fund.  Many thanks to Phillip for his contribution to this very entertaining auction.  

PHILIP TERREL

Previously in this column I wrote about Philip Terrel's interest in charitable events in the Philippines and his special interest in helping the poor, especially the children.  His donation of jewelry for the Australia Day auction at the Wild Orchid Resort brought P50, 000 into the RSL fund but then the very next day I visited the site of a medical mission at a school in Barangay Cutcut and Sto. Domingo.  This mission reached out to 750 indigent children from these two barrios and the entire financial support for this outreach program came from the pockets of Philip Terrel.  Additional sponsorship came from the Nepomuceno family and I was able to meet with Congressman Blue Boy Nepomuceno and Barangay Robin Nepomuceno who were in attendance on this day.  The children were examined by volunteer doctors and depending on their needs were given free medication, vitamins, paracetamol, and many different kinds of medicines.  Philip is a retired US military officer and is very dedicated to his medical missions, including organizing "operation smile" as well where hundreds of children with cleft palate deformities have been transformed into smiling, happy kids thanks to the free operations sponsored by Philip.  When talking to Phil, he told me that he wants to sponsor these medical missions in various barangays on a weekly basis as well as finding the time and money for "Operation Smile".  I mentioned that this is an enormous expense for one person and his response was "that does not matter to me, even if I have to spend every penny I have, these missions will continue'.  Needless to say, I was extremely impressed and I could understand why the Nepomuceno's have adopted him as a favorite son and give him their 100% support.  This particular mission had a tinge of sadness to it as it was dedicated to the late Kenneth Jason Lee, son of retired US Navy Commander Eddie A. Lee and his wife, Dolores "Dolly" Lee.  It was such a pleasure to meet this couple and to hear the sad story of their son.  Jason Lee was born in 1980 and diagnosed with cerebral palsy and quadriplegic condition in a Naval Hospital and not expected to live beyond 10 years.  The Lee's lovingly cared for their son for 25 years until he passed away just one week before this medical mission.  Dolly is a retired nurse and despite this burden had enough love and strength to raise two other children.  When talking to Eddie I could not help but admire this man who joined the Navy at Sangley Point, Philippines as a enlisted mess steward as was the custom in the Navy at that time for Filipino recruits and rose to the rank of Navy Commander.  The Lee's currently live in Tagaytay but have already participated in over 400 medical missions.  What a wonderful couple they are and I am so happy to have met them.  What a great team Philip has behind him with support from the Nepo Clan, the Lee's and the many other volunteers I saw on hand.  Special thanks go out to the doctors Hernand Tulud, Manuel Aquino, Nestor Espiritu, Leny Santos and Sheryl Tuason, who gave their time and expertise for this great cause.  Philip, this horse hopes that you and your cause can continue for many, many more years and may you bring big smiles to many more children who otherwise would be without. 

DARTERS FROM SUBIC

The Hotel La Casa/Blue Boar Inn hosted the Australian Day Dart Tournament for the second year in a row.  I can safely say that if it was not for the Darters from Barrio Barreto, Subic there would not be a tournament because there is a complete lack of interest within the expat community in AC for darts.  The Blue Boar Inn is the only remaining bar in town that has two dart boards available for play.  This is regrettable because at one time AC had a big dart league that played two nights a week.  Darts is big in Olongapo, Ron Chesney tells me that they have dart activity just about every day, comparable to the pool leagues here.  I am anxious for the Subic-Clark road to be completed so I can find the time to play in a league there.  Right now it takes too long to drive but a 35 to 45 minute drive is OK, but that is two years away.  Anyway, 11 darters showed up from Subic to play and only one lad from AC, Tony Powell, but it was enough to form 6 doubles teams who paid P500 each to register of which P100 each went to the RSL.  Jimmy D provided a great venue featuring four new dartboards with two inside the bar and two outside in the carport.  First place went to Ron & Stu, 2nd Place to Tom and Tony, 3rd Place to Symon and Derrie and 4th place honors to Mark and Michael.  Originally Ron had expected about 20 darters from Subic but many had to return to work or did not return from various jobs in time but if only a few more folks from AC had showed up it would have made for a better tournament and a bigger money pot for the finalists.  The folks from Barrio Barreto always look forward to playing with some darters from AC but, each year, they are disappointed with the lack of interest here.  Maybe next year it will be different but Ron Chesney indicated that the venue will be changed to a Club closer to Fields Ave so maybe that will attract more players from AC.  This annual tournament brings back memories to me of when it was fun to get a bunch of expats together to throw some arrows here in AC and to hope, that someday darts can make a comeback in this community.

Well, as you can tell, I kind of skipped over saying anything about the raid on the Horse Racing incident at the Ministry of Music because by now it has been discussed and beaten to death on the message boards and the bottom line is that one should not think about operating a business offering Horse Racing from Australia, via sky cable.  Now, some folks might mention that one has been in operation here for many years and it is still operational.  That may or may not be true (see, I am diplomatic) but then there is a difference between being discreet versus being very obvious.  OK, enough said!  I need a rest to prepare for my 68th birthday on 25 Feb which means that I am only two years away from my big 70 and a big bash and possibly the end of this column.  Hell, I can only go for so long but it will have been a good ride.  Now, let me see if I can find a couple of roses for Priscilla and maybe even throw in a dinner.  See you next month and remember, be kind to horses.